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Bipolar Disorder Counselling in Brisbane, QLD

Photo of Linda van Leeuwen, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Linda van Leeuwen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Wellington Point, QLD 4160  (Online Only)
You don't always have to see a psychologist for your mental health. As an EMDR Therapist and Accredited Mental Health Social Worker my therapy can be funded by Medicare, NDIS, Victim Assist, Workcover QLD, National Redress Scheme etc. My areas of expertise are depression, anxiety, trauma ( (C)PTSD), acute and chronic stress, grief and loss, infertility, Neurodivergence (ASD, ADHD), emotion regulation problems and parenting issues. I work with all adults on these difficulties regardless of age, gender and cultural background. I also provide support for people who have a diagnosis of Psychosis, Bipolar Disorder, BPD, addictions etc.
You don't always have to see a psychologist for your mental health. As an EMDR Therapist and Accredited Mental Health Social Worker my therapy can be funded by Medicare, NDIS, Victim Assist, Workcover QLD, National Redress Scheme etc. My areas of expertise are depression, anxiety, trauma ( (C)PTSD), acute and chronic stress, grief and loss, infertility, Neurodivergence (ASD, ADHD), emotion regulation problems and parenting issues. I work with all adults on these difficulties regardless of age, gender and cultural background. I also provide support for people who have a diagnosis of Psychosis, Bipolar Disorder, BPD, addictions etc.
(07) 3186 8503 View (07) 3186 8503
Photo of Jayde Phillipson - The Clinical Psychology Co. -Jayde Phillipson, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
The Clinical Psychology Co. -Jayde Phillipson
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Farm, QLD 4005
Jayde is a clinical psychologist who works from an ISTDP therapeutic framework, while integrating specific interventions from other trauma-focussed approaches to meet her client's needs. She has experience working with adults, military, police, emergency service workers, and corporate personnel facing a range of difficulties, including trauma related disorders such as PTSD, workplace stress, mood disorders, anxiety, bipolar disorder, substance dependence, and grief. Jayde has a specific interest in working with individuals who have endured acute traumatic events.
Jayde is a clinical psychologist who works from an ISTDP therapeutic framework, while integrating specific interventions from other trauma-focussed approaches to meet her client's needs. She has experience working with adults, military, police, emergency service workers, and corporate personnel facing a range of difficulties, including trauma related disorders such as PTSD, workplace stress, mood disorders, anxiety, bipolar disorder, substance dependence, and grief. Jayde has a specific interest in working with individuals who have endured acute traumatic events.
(07) 2100 4948 View (07) 2100 4948
Photo of Emine Atasoy, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Emine Atasoy
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Fairfield, QLD 4103
I have training, experience, and a keen interest in child and adolescent mental health, autism, ADHD, AuDHD, anxiety, OCD, depression, disordered eating, bipolar affective disorder, early psychosis, trauma/PTSD, family/parenting. I have current availability for appointments via telehealth Australia wide, and face-to-face consultations at our boutique practice located in Fairfield QLD. Please visit our website for further information: www.littlepsychlane.com.au
I have training, experience, and a keen interest in child and adolescent mental health, autism, ADHD, AuDHD, anxiety, OCD, depression, disordered eating, bipolar affective disorder, early psychosis, trauma/PTSD, family/parenting. I have current availability for appointments via telehealth Australia wide, and face-to-face consultations at our boutique practice located in Fairfield QLD. Please visit our website for further information: www.littlepsychlane.com.au
(07) 2100 4332 View (07) 2100 4332
Photo of Una L Window, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Una L Window
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Annerley, QLD 4103
I want to work along side you to help manage your distress, depression or anxiety due to childhood trauma, disability, parenting issues, PND, BiPolar Affective Disorder, BPD, suicidal thinking or self-harm urges. I understand that often, in order to live a more fulfilling life, certain things may need to be either accepted or changed. It's a collaborative approach. I have a lived experience of a physical disability so know the strengths and challenges this can bring.
I want to work along side you to help manage your distress, depression or anxiety due to childhood trauma, disability, parenting issues, PND, BiPolar Affective Disorder, BPD, suicidal thinking or self-harm urges. I understand that often, in order to live a more fulfilling life, certain things may need to be either accepted or changed. It's a collaborative approach. I have a lived experience of a physical disability so know the strengths and challenges this can bring.
(07) 4243 4713 View (07) 4243 4713
Photo of Dr Nicole Hess, PhD, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Dr Nicole Hess
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Milton, QLD 4064
Therapies include; Interpersonal Social Rhythm's Therapy (Bipolar Disorder), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), Schema Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR), Play Therapy, WestMead Feelings Program (emotional awareness for children with Autism).
Dr Nicole is both founder and director of A to Z Psychology and A to Z Learning Pathways. Nicole aims to empower her clients to explore, unlock, and build on their innate capacity for growth and development. The mantra of A to Z Learning Pathways and A to Z psychology of , "Enhancing minds", is applied across all age groups. The letters "A to Z" represent the unique nature and needs of each individual client. Nicole works with each client to formulate treatment plans, assessment protocols, and advocacy service (usually for educational support) that best meet individual needs. Nicole works with children, teens,and older individuals.
Therapies include; Interpersonal Social Rhythm's Therapy (Bipolar Disorder), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), Schema Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR), Play Therapy, WestMead Feelings Program (emotional awareness for children with Autism).
Dr Nicole is both founder and director of A to Z Psychology and A to Z Learning Pathways. Nicole aims to empower her clients to explore, unlock, and build on their innate capacity for growth and development. The mantra of A to Z Learning Pathways and A to Z psychology of , "Enhancing minds", is applied across all age groups. The letters "A to Z" represent the unique nature and needs of each individual client. Nicole works with each client to formulate treatment plans, assessment protocols, and advocacy service (usually for educational support) that best meet individual needs. Nicole works with children, teens,and older individuals.
(07) 2100 4824 View (07) 2100 4824
Photo of Cherie Sonnenburg, MA, Australian Association of Psychologists - Member, Psychologist
Cherie Sonnenburg
Psychologist, MA, Australian Association of Psychologists - Member
Verified Verified
Paddington, QLD 4064
Hello, my name is Cherie. I am a registered psychologist and work with adults and young people (16+) who are seeking to understand themselves better, overcome distress, and form new patterns of relating to themselves and others. I have experience working with people with complex trauma, sexual trauma, genito-pelvic pain/penetration disorder, relationship difficulties, perinatal mental health concerns, parenting difficulties, personality vulnerabilities/disorders, OCD, anger regulation difficulties, and bipolar disorder.
Hello, my name is Cherie. I am a registered psychologist and work with adults and young people (16+) who are seeking to understand themselves better, overcome distress, and form new patterns of relating to themselves and others. I have experience working with people with complex trauma, sexual trauma, genito-pelvic pain/penetration disorder, relationship difficulties, perinatal mental health concerns, parenting difficulties, personality vulnerabilities/disorders, OCD, anger regulation difficulties, and bipolar disorder.
(07) 3132 3435 View (07) 3132 3435
Photo of Helen Elliott, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Helen Elliott
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Red Hill, QLD 4059
I assist people with a range of well-being concerns including anxiety, depression, trauma, major mental illness diagnoses including bipolar affective disorder and major depression, adjustment /life transition issues, body image/food relationship concerns, grief and loss, peri/post-natal concerns, and stress management.
I tailor clinical psychology therapy to each person's unique needs, looking beyond any diagnosis or 'condition' to see how particular patterns in mind and body may be limiting someone's capacity to live fully.
I assist people with a range of well-being concerns including anxiety, depression, trauma, major mental illness diagnoses including bipolar affective disorder and major depression, adjustment /life transition issues, body image/food relationship concerns, grief and loss, peri/post-natal concerns, and stress management.
I tailor clinical psychology therapy to each person's unique needs, looking beyond any diagnosis or 'condition' to see how particular patterns in mind and body may be limiting someone's capacity to live fully.
(07) 3130 0195 View (07) 3130 0195
Photo of Dianne Wheare, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Dianne Wheare
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Bowen Hills, QLD 4006
Welcome to Brisbane Mind & Body Clinic. I’m a Registered Psychologist with 20 years’ experience working with adolescents, adults, and families who have presented with mood disorders, anxiety disorders including obsessive-compulsive disorder, relationship breakdown, work conflict, family crisis, trauma, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. I have a special interest in women's health and the interactions between mind and body in disorders such as post-natal depression and anxiety, together with the stress that accompanies major lifestyle transitions.
Welcome to Brisbane Mind & Body Clinic. I’m a Registered Psychologist with 20 years’ experience working with adolescents, adults, and families who have presented with mood disorders, anxiety disorders including obsessive-compulsive disorder, relationship breakdown, work conflict, family crisis, trauma, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. I have a special interest in women's health and the interactions between mind and body in disorders such as post-natal depression and anxiety, together with the stress that accompanies major lifestyle transitions.
(07) 3113 9982 View (07) 3113 9982
Photo of Renata Webster, PACFA, Counsellor
Renata Webster
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kenmore, QLD 4069
My expertise encompasses bipolar and personality disorders, informed by both rigorous training and personal recovery insights.
You might be someone who feels trapped in a cycle of recurring patterns, struggling with unresolved traumas and complex mental health problems. Perhaps you're navigating relationship challenges, facing life transitions, or wrestling with self-doubt. You could be feeling overwhelmed by the weight of past decisions or anxious about the uncertainty of the future. Each day might seem like a battle, where you're constantly trying to find balance and peace amidst the chaos. You desire clarity, understanding, and a sense of purpose in your life.
My expertise encompasses bipolar and personality disorders, informed by both rigorous training and personal recovery insights.
You might be someone who feels trapped in a cycle of recurring patterns, struggling with unresolved traumas and complex mental health problems. Perhaps you're navigating relationship challenges, facing life transitions, or wrestling with self-doubt. You could be feeling overwhelmed by the weight of past decisions or anxious about the uncertainty of the future. Each day might seem like a battle, where you're constantly trying to find balance and peace amidst the chaos. You desire clarity, understanding, and a sense of purpose in your life.
(07) 3062 6831 View (07) 3062 6831
Photo of Robin Fraser, MPsych, PsyBA Endorsed, Psychologist
Robin Fraser
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA Endorsed
Verified Verified
Taringa, QLD 4068
My areas of expertise include Mood Disorders (Depression & Bipolar), Anxiety Disorders, PTSD & Complex PTSD, Impulse Control orders & Substance Use Disorders, and Personality Disorders.
Hi, I am an experienced Counselling Psychologist and have gained a broad base of knowledge over 13 years of therapy.The vast majority of my experience has been in the private practice field, treating both individuals & couples. Clients generally find me to be a warm and caring psychologist, with a strong desire to understand and help them to move forwards in their life.
My areas of expertise include Mood Disorders (Depression & Bipolar), Anxiety Disorders, PTSD & Complex PTSD, Impulse Control orders & Substance Use Disorders, and Personality Disorders.
Hi, I am an experienced Counselling Psychologist and have gained a broad base of knowledge over 13 years of therapy.The vast majority of my experience has been in the private practice field, treating both individuals & couples. Clients generally find me to be a warm and caring psychologist, with a strong desire to understand and help them to move forwards in their life.
(07) 2100 4097 View (07) 2100 4097
Photo of Suzanne Klotz - People Psychology, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Suzanne Klotz - People Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Brisbane City, QLD 4000
Get help by seeing Suzanne, who has extensive experience with: Anxiety, Panic Attacks & Anxiety Stress, Phobias (Fear of specific things / situations), Depression, Grief & Loss, Bereavement, Relationship Issues, Couples Counselling, Marriage Counselling, Premarital Counselling, Workplace Stress, Alcohol Abuse & Dependency, PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder), Trauma, Adjustment Disorder, ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) & ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder), Adoption Issues, Anger Management, Bipolar Disorder (BD), Career Guidance, Chronic Pain, Codependency Disorder & Divorce Counselling
Get help by seeing Suzanne, who has extensive experience with: Anxiety, Panic Attacks & Anxiety Stress, Phobias (Fear of specific things / situations), Depression, Grief & Loss, Bereavement, Relationship Issues, Couples Counselling, Marriage Counselling, Premarital Counselling, Workplace Stress, Alcohol Abuse & Dependency, PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder), Trauma, Adjustment Disorder, ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) & ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder), Adoption Issues, Anger Management, Bipolar Disorder (BD), Career Guidance, Chronic Pain, Codependency Disorder & Divorce Counselling
(03) 7003 2585 View (03) 7003 2585
Photo of Julia Martz, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Julia Martz
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Brisbane City, QLD 4000  (Online Only)
Julia’s primary interests include supporting people experiencing trauma, anxiety disorders (including OCD), mood disorders (including bipolar), individual relationship support and difficulties related to identity.
Julia operates via Telehealth only. Julia is a qualified Clinical Psychologist providing online therapy. She has many years of experience delivering evidence-based therapy to adults with various presenting difficulties. Julia believes in the strength of the therapeutic relationship and collaboration between client and therapist to create tailored support for each client. She brings a personable and authentic approach to supporting clients and aims to help clients make meaningful, long-lasting changes.
Julia’s primary interests include supporting people experiencing trauma, anxiety disorders (including OCD), mood disorders (including bipolar), individual relationship support and difficulties related to identity.
Julia operates via Telehealth only. Julia is a qualified Clinical Psychologist providing online therapy. She has many years of experience delivering evidence-based therapy to adults with various presenting difficulties. Julia believes in the strength of the therapeutic relationship and collaboration between client and therapist to create tailored support for each client. She brings a personable and authentic approach to supporting clients and aims to help clients make meaningful, long-lasting changes.
(03) 7003 2371 View (03) 7003 2371
Photo of Wisemind& Body - Wisemind & Body, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Wisemind & Body
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Logan Central, QLD 4114
Areas of Interest include: Mood Disorders (Depression, Bipolar Disorder), Anxiety Disorder (Generalised, Panic, Agoraphobia, Phobias); Traumas and posttraumatic stress, Adjustment Disorder Personality Disorders, Eating Disorders Gender confirmation, Body image, Health Psychology, life-cycle transition, identity issues Chronic pain, CALD, Education and more!.
Wisemind & Body Clinicians work with children, adolescents, adults, families and organisations across various presentations. We aim to create a safe space for each individual and assist them through a warm, empathetic, and Trauma-informed approach while building and maintaining a strong therapeutic alliance with each of our clients. We ensure that each client's presentation is entailed towards them and provide various evidence-based interventions with achievable treatment plans to have the best possible outcomes for clients for any presentation, concerns, or goals they may have. Call us now on or email us!
Areas of Interest include: Mood Disorders (Depression, Bipolar Disorder), Anxiety Disorder (Generalised, Panic, Agoraphobia, Phobias); Traumas and posttraumatic stress, Adjustment Disorder Personality Disorders, Eating Disorders Gender confirmation, Body image, Health Psychology, life-cycle transition, identity issues Chronic pain, CALD, Education and more!.
Wisemind & Body Clinicians work with children, adolescents, adults, families and organisations across various presentations. We aim to create a safe space for each individual and assist them through a warm, empathetic, and Trauma-informed approach while building and maintaining a strong therapeutic alliance with each of our clients. We ensure that each client's presentation is entailed towards them and provide various evidence-based interventions with achievable treatment plans to have the best possible outcomes for clients for any presentation, concerns, or goals they may have. Call us now on or email us!
(07) 2801 6810 View (07) 2801 6810
Photo of Danka Fiedor Psychology Emdr Intensive, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Danka Fiedor Psychology Emdr Emdr Intensive
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Brisbane City, QLD 4000
Danka Fiedor Psychology is offering integrated and customised to client needs therapy such as EMDR & EMDR & intensives for individuals and couples & Attachment Informed EMDR & "parts work" & Gottman Method Workers Compensation/CTP (SIRA) & Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP). Each service is tailored using a strength-based approach to treatment to help you manage any issues including stress, depression, anxiety, grief, PTSD/cPTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Eating Disorders, OCD, Adult ADHD, phobias and performance anxiety, self-esteem and life’s challenges.
Danka Fiedor Psychology is offering integrated and customised to client needs therapy such as EMDR & EMDR & intensives for individuals and couples & Attachment Informed EMDR & "parts work" & Gottman Method Workers Compensation/CTP (SIRA) & Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP). Each service is tailored using a strength-based approach to treatment to help you manage any issues including stress, depression, anxiety, grief, PTSD/cPTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Eating Disorders, OCD, Adult ADHD, phobias and performance anxiety, self-esteem and life’s challenges.
(02) 9100 0959 View (02) 9100 0959
Photo of Dr Jacky Wan - Multilingual Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Dr Jacky Wan - Multilingual Psychologist
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Brisbane City, QLD 4000
I am a clinical psychologist with over a decade of experience in clinical supervisory roles held at both hospitals and private practice. In this time I have specialised in sleep issues, sleep disorders, psychotic spectrum disorders, bipolar disorder and other clinical presentations. I am passionate about providing caring and compassionate psychological support, tailored to my individual clients. This can range from resolving painful history to promoting growth in various stages of their life. Having practiced in both Hong Kong and Australia, I speak fluent English, Cantonese and Mandarin.
I am a clinical psychologist with over a decade of experience in clinical supervisory roles held at both hospitals and private practice. In this time I have specialised in sleep issues, sleep disorders, psychotic spectrum disorders, bipolar disorder and other clinical presentations. I am passionate about providing caring and compassionate psychological support, tailored to my individual clients. This can range from resolving painful history to promoting growth in various stages of their life. Having practiced in both Hong Kong and Australia, I speak fluent English, Cantonese and Mandarin.
(02) 9100 0686 View (02) 9100 0686
Jen Riches
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Brisbane City, QLD 4000  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Photo of Anthony Edwards, ACA-L4, Counsellor
Anthony Edwards
Counsellor, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clayfield, QLD 4011
Are you feeling anxious, stressed, confused, emotionally overwhelmed? Does life seem overwhelming, unfair, sad, unfulfilling, directionless, hopeless? Is your relationship in distress or not as fulfilling as you’d like? You’re not alone. I endeavour to understand what is important for you, which means that I don’t have a one-size-fits-all approach. Using empathy and non-judgement, I listen to understand what life is like for you and to ‘get’ you - what you are thinking and feeling, how the events of life have impacted you, and what you want and need. I create a safe space to be open and real about what you are experiencing.
Are you feeling anxious, stressed, confused, emotionally overwhelmed? Does life seem overwhelming, unfair, sad, unfulfilling, directionless, hopeless? Is your relationship in distress or not as fulfilling as you’d like? You’re not alone. I endeavour to understand what is important for you, which means that I don’t have a one-size-fits-all approach. Using empathy and non-judgement, I listen to understand what life is like for you and to ‘get’ you - what you are thinking and feeling, how the events of life have impacted you, and what you want and need. I create a safe space to be open and real about what you are experiencing.
(07) 3132 2338 View (07) 3132 2338
Photo of Laurie Marsden, MSc, AASW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laurie Marsden
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSc, AASW
Verified Verified
Clayfield, QLD 4011
In my 24 years as a mental health provider, I have taken great pride in helping people through a variety of challenges and life events. To me, therapy is about become whole again, healing current issues and past traumas, (even the ones we don’t remember, but our bodies and psyche does). Most often clients present with one issue and the connections we make during our work together show many layers and exactly why these situations arise. I help my clients not only understand where they are and why they are there, but also what they must do to change their lives, heal, and move forward a happier and healthier person.
In my 24 years as a mental health provider, I have taken great pride in helping people through a variety of challenges and life events. To me, therapy is about become whole again, healing current issues and past traumas, (even the ones we don’t remember, but our bodies and psyche does). Most often clients present with one issue and the connections we make during our work together show many layers and exactly why these situations arise. I help my clients not only understand where they are and why they are there, but also what they must do to change their lives, heal, and move forward a happier and healthier person.
(07) 3106 3425 View (07) 3106 3425
Photo of Jayani Nayana Jayatilake - Peaceful Mind Counselling, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Peaceful Mind Counselling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Kenmore, QLD 4069
Do you want to feel listened and understood? Do you feel overwhelmed, anxious unable to cope or make decisions and feel like nothings working for you? I am an Accredited Psychotherapist / Mental Health Social Worker with over 10 years’ experience. My practice is based on compassion and mindfulness Working form, a trauma informed approach using evidence-based therapeutic interventions that is tailored to your specific needs, I can assist you with gaining insight and learning range of techniques that can guide you to overcome depression, anxiety, trauma (including PTDS), loss and grief, DV and more.
Do you want to feel listened and understood? Do you feel overwhelmed, anxious unable to cope or make decisions and feel like nothings working for you? I am an Accredited Psychotherapist / Mental Health Social Worker with over 10 years’ experience. My practice is based on compassion and mindfulness Working form, a trauma informed approach using evidence-based therapeutic interventions that is tailored to your specific needs, I can assist you with gaining insight and learning range of techniques that can guide you to overcome depression, anxiety, trauma (including PTDS), loss and grief, DV and more.
(07) 3088 9155 View (07) 3088 9155
Photo of Katherine Eliza MacDonald, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Katherine Eliza MacDonald
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bracken Ridge, QLD 4017
I have practiced as a psychologist for 30 years. Most of this time has been in the public mental health system, but I have been in private practice since September 2021. I work with adults over the age of 18. My speciality area is working with people with Borderline Personality Disorder. I am also experienced in working with people with mood disorders including Depression and Anxiety, as well as with those who have experienced trauma.
I have practiced as a psychologist for 30 years. Most of this time has been in the public mental health system, but I have been in private practice since September 2021. I work with adults over the age of 18. My speciality area is working with people with Borderline Personality Disorder. I am also experienced in working with people with mood disorders including Depression and Anxiety, as well as with those who have experienced trauma.
(07) 3214 3650 View (07) 3214 3650
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See more therapy options for Brisbane

Bipolar Disorder Counsellors

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.