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Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Detroit, MI

Photo of Monet Robinson, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Monet Robinson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Detroit, MI 48235  (Online Only)
I work well with teenagers and adults. I have worked with individuals with Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety issues, and an array of other mental health disorders. It is my passion to help the individuals and families with whom I work to reach their goals in life and be the best that they can be!
I work well with teenagers and adults. I have worked with individuals with Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety issues, and an array of other mental health disorders. It is my passion to help the individuals and families with whom I work to reach their goals in life and be the best that they can be!
(734) 345-6862 View (734) 345-6862
Photo of Sarah Abdel-Wahab-O'Brien, LLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Sarah Abdel-Wahab-O'Brien
Limited Licensed Psychologist, LLP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Detroit, MI 48201  (Online Only)
I utilize an eclectic therapy practice, however I predominantly have experience in Compassion Focused Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, as well as training in Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy (IPSRT), a modality specialized for folks with Bipolar Disorder.
Creating and holding space for folks to feel safe in, share, be authentic, be vulnerable, and heal is something I have felt called to do throughout my life. I am an adamant believer that individuals are the experts on their own experience, and that includes providing space to discuss the impacts of various forms of oppression you face. I view therapy as a partnership on a journey toward healing, for which an affirming and non-pathologizing space is essential.
I utilize an eclectic therapy practice, however I predominantly have experience in Compassion Focused Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, as well as training in Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy (IPSRT), a modality specialized for folks with Bipolar Disorder.
Creating and holding space for folks to feel safe in, share, be authentic, be vulnerable, and heal is something I have felt called to do throughout my life. I am an adamant believer that individuals are the experts on their own experience, and that includes providing space to discuss the impacts of various forms of oppression you face. I view therapy as a partnership on a journey toward healing, for which an affirming and non-pathologizing space is essential.
(734) 838-4497 View (734) 838-4497
Photo of undefined - Clear Innervision Counseling Service, LLC, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Clear Innervision Counseling Service, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Detroit, MI 48223  (Online Only)
I am a licensed Clinical Therapist in Michigan and have been for over 20 years. I have worked with a diverse population including teens, adults, seniors, families and couples. I work with issues such as Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, Psychotic Disorders, Low Self-Esteem, Panic Disorders, PTSD, Adjustment disorder, Grief and Loss, LGBTQ related issues, Trauma, Anger Management and Work/Life balance. Clinical settings have included in-patient mental health unit in hospitals, partial hospitalization program, residential unit for adolescents and youth, outpatient mental health settings and medication clinics.
I am a licensed Clinical Therapist in Michigan and have been for over 20 years. I have worked with a diverse population including teens, adults, seniors, families and couples. I work with issues such as Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, Psychotic Disorders, Low Self-Esteem, Panic Disorders, PTSD, Adjustment disorder, Grief and Loss, LGBTQ related issues, Trauma, Anger Management and Work/Life balance. Clinical settings have included in-patient mental health unit in hospitals, partial hospitalization program, residential unit for adolescents and youth, outpatient mental health settings and medication clinics.
(313) 800-7221 View (313) 800-7221
Photo of undefined - Innovatel Medical, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Innovatel Medical
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Detroit, MI 48243  (Online Only)
Our multidisciplinary team of highly skilled psychiatrists, nurse practitioners, therapists, care coordinators and care managers offer compassionate, personalized care including therapy and medication management to meet the unique needs of individuals including stress, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, sleep difficulties, trauma, PTSD and many more.
At Innovatel Medical our expert team of providers bring tailored mental wellness right to your home via telehealth. Your behavioral health needs are specific to you, and your care should be, too. From therapy services to medication assistance and prescribing, our accessible virtual services are your passport to a happier, healthier you – all from the comfort of your home. Don't let your mental health struggles hold you back; let us help guide you through your own unique journey of success and well-being.
Our multidisciplinary team of highly skilled psychiatrists, nurse practitioners, therapists, care coordinators and care managers offer compassionate, personalized care including therapy and medication management to meet the unique needs of individuals including stress, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, sleep difficulties, trauma, PTSD and many more.
At Innovatel Medical our expert team of providers bring tailored mental wellness right to your home via telehealth. Your behavioral health needs are specific to you, and your care should be, too. From therapy services to medication assistance and prescribing, our accessible virtual services are your passport to a happier, healthier you – all from the comfort of your home. Don't let your mental health struggles hold you back; let us help guide you through your own unique journey of success and well-being.
(267) 490-3963 View (267) 490-3963
Photo of Miriam Engstrom, PsyD, LP, Psychologist
Miriam Engstrom
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
Detroit, MI 48224
Waitlist for new clients
I encourage, support, and facilitate the process of personal growth and change. I believe in straightforward and honest communication. My clients generally describe me as caring, empathetic, and down to earth. I have experience working with adults, children, adolescents, families, and couples, both in the U.S. and abroad. I am trained in a number of therapies, including Humanistic, Cognitive Behavioral, and Client Centered, and have additional training in bipolar disorders, substance abuse, DBT, crisis intervention, and EMDR for the treatment of PTSD.
I encourage, support, and facilitate the process of personal growth and change. I believe in straightforward and honest communication. My clients generally describe me as caring, empathetic, and down to earth. I have experience working with adults, children, adolescents, families, and couples, both in the U.S. and abroad. I am trained in a number of therapies, including Humanistic, Cognitive Behavioral, and Client Centered, and have additional training in bipolar disorders, substance abuse, DBT, crisis intervention, and EMDR for the treatment of PTSD.
(313) 254-3999 View (313) 254-3999
Photo of Leonard Uchendu, L, M, S, W, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leonard Uchendu
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, L, M, S, W
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Detroit, MI 48219  (Online Only)
I am specialized in Sex Addiction, Substance Use Disorder, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, impulsiveness, chronic pain, trauma, Grief and Loss issues, Bipolar Disorder and Borderline Personality disorder, relationship conflicts etc.
I understand the daunting task of seeking help. I commend you for your courage to reach out to me for help. You desire therapy because you may be experiencing the following problems: Trauma, Depression,Anxiety, Addiction, Grief and Loss, Chronic Pain, suicide/self-injurious behaviors, interpersonal conflicts and othe psychological difficulties. Certainly, you would like to get to the bottom of your feelings, gain insights, deepen sense of self and self-integration. My therapy room will provide you a safe space to be yourself. I will meet you where you with zero judgment, empathetic ear and evidence based practice.
I am specialized in Sex Addiction, Substance Use Disorder, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, impulsiveness, chronic pain, trauma, Grief and Loss issues, Bipolar Disorder and Borderline Personality disorder, relationship conflicts etc.
I understand the daunting task of seeking help. I commend you for your courage to reach out to me for help. You desire therapy because you may be experiencing the following problems: Trauma, Depression,Anxiety, Addiction, Grief and Loss, Chronic Pain, suicide/self-injurious behaviors, interpersonal conflicts and othe psychological difficulties. Certainly, you would like to get to the bottom of your feelings, gain insights, deepen sense of self and self-integration. My therapy room will provide you a safe space to be yourself. I will meet you where you with zero judgment, empathetic ear and evidence based practice.
(517) 684-2907 View (517) 684-2907
Photo of undefined - Transcending Hope Institute, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Transcending Hope Institute
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Detroit, MI 48213
We offer mental health services to address depression, anxiety, trauma, bipolar disorders, borderline personality disorders, substance use, and more.
Our focus is to offer hope, help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. We achieve this by providing a neutral safe space, listening to your concerns, and customizing a treatment plan to help you build a life worth living.
We offer mental health services to address depression, anxiety, trauma, bipolar disorders, borderline personality disorders, substance use, and more.
Our focus is to offer hope, help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. We achieve this by providing a neutral safe space, listening to your concerns, and customizing a treatment plan to help you build a life worth living.
(313) 217-3516 View (313) 217-3516
Photo of undefined - Introspective Counseling, MA, LPC, CAADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Introspective Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CAADC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Detroit, MI 48223
Other specialties include: bipolar disorder, trauma, chronic health issues, postpartum adjustment, life transitions, grief and stress.
Office, Virtual, Weekend and Evening Appointments Available! We work with folks who struggle silently with the feeling of not being enough or being too much; rebellious teens who are bright, quiet or outspoken AND also largely misunderstood; disillusioned parents and couples who are unhappy with the way things are but are committed to getting things back on track. You are welcome here! We specialize in treating anxiety, depression, stress and trauma in BIPOC, Black and African American teens and adults. If you are considering the courageous next step toward a life of thriving, we'd be honored to partner with you on your journey.
Other specialties include: bipolar disorder, trauma, chronic health issues, postpartum adjustment, life transitions, grief and stress.
Office, Virtual, Weekend and Evening Appointments Available! We work with folks who struggle silently with the feeling of not being enough or being too much; rebellious teens who are bright, quiet or outspoken AND also largely misunderstood; disillusioned parents and couples who are unhappy with the way things are but are committed to getting things back on track. You are welcome here! We specialize in treating anxiety, depression, stress and trauma in BIPOC, Black and African American teens and adults. If you are considering the courageous next step toward a life of thriving, we'd be honored to partner with you on your journey.
(313) 246-9375 View (313) 246-9375
Photo of Dr. Sami Farhat, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Sami Farhat
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Detroit, MI 48201
I provide forensic evaluation services for both criminal and civil matters. Common referrals include competency to stand trial, criminal responsibility, and violence risk. I completed a postdoctoral fellowship in forensic psychology through the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences and have consistently been qualified as an expert witness. Particular areas of interest are schizophrenia-spectrum disorders, drug induced psychosis, extreme overvalued beliefs versus delusions, and malingering. I also provide consultation and review of other expert's work.
I provide forensic evaluation services for both criminal and civil matters. Common referrals include competency to stand trial, criminal responsibility, and violence risk. I completed a postdoctoral fellowship in forensic psychology through the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences and have consistently been qualified as an expert witness. Particular areas of interest are schizophrenia-spectrum disorders, drug induced psychosis, extreme overvalued beliefs versus delusions, and malingering. I also provide consultation and review of other expert's work.
(248) 422-0370 View (248) 422-0370
Photo of Malinda Wilson, LMSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Malinda Wilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW-C
Verified Verified
Detroit, MI 48219  (Online Only)
Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I received my Master's from the Wayne State University and have been practicing for 20 years. I help adults struggling with career stress and burnout become the best versions of themselves. As a licensed clinical social worker and leader in behavioral health care services, I have worked in numerous capacities. I have highly individualized services utilizing a holistic approach and focusing on the person and their environment to maximize overall wellness.
Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I received my Master's from the Wayne State University and have been practicing for 20 years. I help adults struggling with career stress and burnout become the best versions of themselves. As a licensed clinical social worker and leader in behavioral health care services, I have worked in numerous capacities. I have highly individualized services utilizing a holistic approach and focusing on the person and their environment to maximize overall wellness.
(517) 624-7735 View (517) 624-7735
Photo of Tanya D. Mizell, NCC, LPC, CCTP, ASDI, Counselor
Tanya D. Mizell
Counselor, NCC, LPC, CCTP, ASDI
Verified Verified
Detroit, MI 48228  (Online Only)
Although our struggles serve to derail us, we do not have to allow our problems to keep us from achieving our goals. I offer genuine compassion, empathy, and motivational support without judgment. I believe we all possess the innate ability to invoke the necessary changes in our lives. My approach to counseling is positive, empowering, and encouraging, which will provide you with the tools you need to regain hope while sustaining a stable and productive life. I will also help you develop lifelong coping skills for the journey ahead. I am here for you.
Although our struggles serve to derail us, we do not have to allow our problems to keep us from achieving our goals. I offer genuine compassion, empathy, and motivational support without judgment. I believe we all possess the innate ability to invoke the necessary changes in our lives. My approach to counseling is positive, empowering, and encouraging, which will provide you with the tools you need to regain hope while sustaining a stable and productive life. I will also help you develop lifelong coping skills for the journey ahead. I am here for you.
(313) 362-4148 View (313) 362-4148
Photo of undefined - Counseling with Chris, PLLC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Counseling with Chris, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Detroit, MI 48228  (Online Only)
Feeling like you’re too much and not enough at the same time? Sometimes we experience things in life that cause us to harden; we end up having to create armor to walk through the world more safely. There's so much wisdom in that armor, in the ways we learn to protect ourselves. But sometimes that armor does not serve us; it gets in the way of truly living, and experiencing care and support from those we want to let in. Maybe you’re struggling with how past painful experiences are impacting your current relationships, possibly while struggling to even know who you are. We can’t change the past, but we can find a healing path forward.
Feeling like you’re too much and not enough at the same time? Sometimes we experience things in life that cause us to harden; we end up having to create armor to walk through the world more safely. There's so much wisdom in that armor, in the ways we learn to protect ourselves. But sometimes that armor does not serve us; it gets in the way of truly living, and experiencing care and support from those we want to let in. Maybe you’re struggling with how past painful experiences are impacting your current relationships, possibly while struggling to even know who you are. We can’t change the past, but we can find a healing path forward.
(313) 474-8782 View (313) 474-8782
Photo of Liz Curtis, MA, LPC, LCPC, CAADC, NCC, Counselor
Liz Curtis
Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC, CAADC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Detroit, MI 48202  (Online Only)
Working from a feminist theoretical perspective, I feel that your unique voice deserves to be believed, be heard, and be taken seriously. I strive to create a trusted space in which you feel comfortable to work through your difficulties without fear of judgment or discrimination. I believe you will find me approachable, down to earth, and friendly!
Working from a feminist theoretical perspective, I feel that your unique voice deserves to be believed, be heard, and be taken seriously. I strive to create a trusted space in which you feel comfortable to work through your difficulties without fear of judgment or discrimination. I believe you will find me approachable, down to earth, and friendly!
(313) 462-2146 View (313) 462-2146
Photo of undefined - Royalty Behavioral and Counseling Services LLC, MA , LLPC, MEd, Counselor
Royalty Behavioral and Counseling Services LLC
Counselor, MA , LLPC, MEd
Verified Verified
Detroit, MI 48239  (Online Only)
I had the opportunity to encounter many individuals from all walks of life with many issues that seemingly disturbed their “PEACE”. Those encounters encouraged my counseling journey. My belief is that every individual should live a life of “PEACE”. I believe that “PEACE” is accomplished by combating issues that have disturbed one’s emotional, financial, physical, and spiritual health. My ultimate goal is to assist clients in exploring and processing their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, to improve their quality of life engulfed in “PEACE”.
I had the opportunity to encounter many individuals from all walks of life with many issues that seemingly disturbed their “PEACE”. Those encounters encouraged my counseling journey. My belief is that every individual should live a life of “PEACE”. I believe that “PEACE” is accomplished by combating issues that have disturbed one’s emotional, financial, physical, and spiritual health. My ultimate goal is to assist clients in exploring and processing their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, to improve their quality of life engulfed in “PEACE”.
(248) 775-7941 View (248) 775-7941
Photo of Melba Clark, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Melba Clark
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Detroit, MI 48207
My vision is for people to understand the value of taking care of their mental health each day. Our Mental Health plays a significant role in our overall health and well-being. As we navigate the challenges that we all face in this life, it is important that we learn to recognize our mental health needs and how we can take better care of ourselves in this area. One of my goals is to help remove the stigma that many of us have regarding seeking counseling. You do not have to have a mental illness in order to seek out or benefit from counseling. Seeking counseling is a form of self-care.
My vision is for people to understand the value of taking care of their mental health each day. Our Mental Health plays a significant role in our overall health and well-being. As we navigate the challenges that we all face in this life, it is important that we learn to recognize our mental health needs and how we can take better care of ourselves in this area. One of my goals is to help remove the stigma that many of us have regarding seeking counseling. You do not have to have a mental illness in order to seek out or benefit from counseling. Seeking counseling is a form of self-care.
(313) 488-3355 View (313) 488-3355
Photo of undefined - Quilted Rose Clinical Services, PLLC, PsyD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Quilted Rose Clinical Services, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPC
Verified Verified
Detroit, MI 48207  (Online Only)
Dr. Walker, a native Detroiter, created Quilted Rose Clinical Services, PLLC out of a need for highly skilled Black clinicians expressly trained in social justice and trauma-focused treatment modalities. Dr. Walker works with all Black (BIPOC) people. She works collaboratively to facilitate growth in individuals struggling with trauma (car accidents, sexual abuse, ipv...) severe stress, depression, anxiety, major life transitions (divorce, recovering from the "sunken place," going away to college...) and stopping the cycle of unhealthy relationships all while maintaining within a society which thrives on systemic oppression.
Dr. Walker, a native Detroiter, created Quilted Rose Clinical Services, PLLC out of a need for highly skilled Black clinicians expressly trained in social justice and trauma-focused treatment modalities. Dr. Walker works with all Black (BIPOC) people. She works collaboratively to facilitate growth in individuals struggling with trauma (car accidents, sexual abuse, ipv...) severe stress, depression, anxiety, major life transitions (divorce, recovering from the "sunken place," going away to college...) and stopping the cycle of unhealthy relationships all while maintaining within a society which thrives on systemic oppression.
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Photo of Rachel Routin, MS, TLLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Rachel Routin
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MS, TLLP
Verified Verified
Detroit, MI 48226
I believe that therapy is an ongoing conversation spread out over a period of time where I, as your therapist, get to know you and try to understand what is creating difficulty in your life. My job is to help create a nonjudgmental and comforting relationship where we can begin to understand you - together. I genuinely care about those I work with, and I believe this curious and compassionate approach is ultimately what makes therapy worthwhile. By understanding you and your challenges, we can help you take steps to truly improve your life.
I believe that therapy is an ongoing conversation spread out over a period of time where I, as your therapist, get to know you and try to understand what is creating difficulty in your life. My job is to help create a nonjudgmental and comforting relationship where we can begin to understand you - together. I genuinely care about those I work with, and I believe this curious and compassionate approach is ultimately what makes therapy worthwhile. By understanding you and your challenges, we can help you take steps to truly improve your life.
(248) 955-2976 View (248) 955-2976
Photo of Dr. Annette Solomon, PsyD, LP, Psychologist
Dr. Annette Solomon
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
Detroit, MI 48219  (Online Only)
Congratulations... you’ve taken the first step toward improving your health and wellness. It takes tremendous strength & courage to ask for assistance and I’m honored to be a part of the process. Dr. Annette Solomon is a Psychologist, licensed in Michigan and owner of Healing Space Therapeutic Services, LLC, a strength-based telehealth practice. Dr. Solomon provides culturally competent therapy with clients who have experienced challenges with a variety of mental health disorders and/ or concerns and would like to grow, get relief, or improve their general well-being.
Congratulations... you’ve taken the first step toward improving your health and wellness. It takes tremendous strength & courage to ask for assistance and I’m honored to be a part of the process. Dr. Annette Solomon is a Psychologist, licensed in Michigan and owner of Healing Space Therapeutic Services, LLC, a strength-based telehealth practice. Dr. Solomon provides culturally competent therapy with clients who have experienced challenges with a variety of mental health disorders and/ or concerns and would like to grow, get relief, or improve their general well-being.
(248) 621-8417 View (248) 621-8417
Photo of Malanna Simmons, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Malanna Simmons
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Detroit, MI 48202  (Online Only)
Overall, I consider myself a "worldly nurturer". "Worldly", because I have worked with people from all backgrounds, cultures, ages, and walks of life to "nurture" their potential. All of my experiences have taught me the foundational skills that I use in my profession today, which are: patience, the ability to listen, the understanding that listening is as paramount as speaking, the capabilities to be resourceful, valuing modesty and humility whilst still being confident and capable, and having faith in my skill-set while still being open to professionally growing and developing.
Overall, I consider myself a "worldly nurturer". "Worldly", because I have worked with people from all backgrounds, cultures, ages, and walks of life to "nurture" their potential. All of my experiences have taught me the foundational skills that I use in my profession today, which are: patience, the ability to listen, the understanding that listening is as paramount as speaking, the capabilities to be resourceful, valuing modesty and humility whilst still being confident and capable, and having faith in my skill-set while still being open to professionally growing and developing.
(616) 208-5418 View (616) 208-5418
Photo of Dr. Natasha Dominguez, LMFT-S, LPC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Natasha Dominguez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT-S, LPC
Verified Verified
Detroit, MI 48207  (Online Only)
Do you want more from your life? More peace? More joy? More hope? Existing can sometimes be difficult. Are there times that you find yourself waking up each morning just going through the motions, while simply pretending that you are fine, that life is great, and you have it all together? Meanwhile, you are struggling with thoughts of feeling stuck, fears, flashbacks of past traumas or abuse, grief, disappointments and/or relational failures. You deserve more than just to survive. Reclaim your power! It’s time to confront the fears, struggles, worries, stressors, and doubts that have been controlling your life. You deserve it!
Do you want more from your life? More peace? More joy? More hope? Existing can sometimes be difficult. Are there times that you find yourself waking up each morning just going through the motions, while simply pretending that you are fine, that life is great, and you have it all together? Meanwhile, you are struggling with thoughts of feeling stuck, fears, flashbacks of past traumas or abuse, grief, disappointments and/or relational failures. You deserve more than just to survive. Reclaim your power! It’s time to confront the fears, struggles, worries, stressors, and doubts that have been controlling your life. You deserve it!
(313) 923-2343 View (313) 923-2343
Bipolar Disorder Therapists

What is the most successful approach to treating bipolar disorder?

Living with bipolar disorder can be challenging, and a number of therapies have been found effective in providing support to patients as they gain the skills to understand and manage the disorder. Family-focused therapy is often helpful for children and teens (the majority of cases develop before age 19); it aims to minimize mood cycling by improving family communication and reducing conflict. It also helps young people navigate the developmental challenges the disorder can create. Cognitive and behavioral therapy (CBT) and variants such as Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)help patients manage the thoughts and feelings that influence bipolar mood swings as well as develop specific behavioral strategies to counteract them.

What happens in therapy for bipolar disorder?

Because the patterns of mood switching and its triggers differ for each person and can change over time, mood tracking or monitoring becomes a basic way patients learn about the nature of their condition. One of the most common features of therapy is finding a workable method of mood monitoring, in which patients track their daily activities and rate their moods, then use the findings to adjust routines accordingly. Patients learn ways of handling the many stresses that arise in life so that they do not trigger mood swings.

What kinds of problems does therapy help with?

Like many other mental health disorders, BPD is heavily influenced by stress; therapy provides skills for coping with stressors of all kinds. Therapy is extremely important for helping individuals identify the situations that may trigger mood switching, so that mood swings can be prevented. Therapy may especially target recognition of the early stages of mood change so that they can be managed. In addition, therapy helps patients deal with the significant amount of turbulence the disorder can create in relationships and in work life.

What is the goal of therapy for bipolar disorder?

Therapy helps patients set up their lives to maintain stability so that their mood isn’t constantly threatened by daily events. Perhaps the first task of therapy is to educate people about the nature of the disorder. At the same time, a primary goal of therapy is to enhance adherence to drug treatment. Extended periods of mood stability can prompt patients to discontinue medication, triggering relapse, while the early phases of manic episodes can feel so energizing that patients stop medication, ushering in full-blown mania and the altered self-perception that can lead to destructive behaviors. Another major goal of therapy is to understand one’s mood patterns so as to minimize both the frequency and intensity of mood cycling.