www.fgks.org   »   [go: up one dir, main page]

Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Barrie, ON

Photo of Marie-Maude Pelletier Sottile, BAPsych,  MA , MACP, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Marie-Maude Pelletier Sottile
Registered Psychotherapist, BAPsych, MA , MACP, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4M
My clinical experience allows me to treat individuals who experience low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship struggles, emotional disturbances, stress, mood disorders, behavioural issues, ADHD, bipolar, borderline disorder, & adjusting to a life change.
Therapy is an opportunity to increase our resilience and to learn how to cope with undesirable life events. Anger, fear, sadness or guilt arise when life experiences are overlooked, neglected, and ununderstood. Anxiety & Depression is a response to the failure to care for the feelings & emotions of the self. Likewise, feelings of stress and inner discomfort need understanding to be changed. The psychotherapy techniques I use to ease client issues and discomfort include CBT, Talking Therapy, DBT skills, Client-Centred, Compassion, Emotional and Solution Focus Therapy, Psychoeducation, frameworks of attachment, and family systems.
My clinical experience allows me to treat individuals who experience low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship struggles, emotional disturbances, stress, mood disorders, behavioural issues, ADHD, bipolar, borderline disorder, & adjusting to a life change.
Therapy is an opportunity to increase our resilience and to learn how to cope with undesirable life events. Anger, fear, sadness or guilt arise when life experiences are overlooked, neglected, and ununderstood. Anxiety & Depression is a response to the failure to care for the feelings & emotions of the self. Likewise, feelings of stress and inner discomfort need understanding to be changed. The psychotherapy techniques I use to ease client issues and discomfort include CBT, Talking Therapy, DBT skills, Client-Centred, Compassion, Emotional and Solution Focus Therapy, Psychoeducation, frameworks of attachment, and family systems.
(647) 905-9212 View (647) 905-9212
Photo of Jessica Capra, BA, MC, Registered Psychotherapist
Jessica Capra
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, MC
Verified Verified
Barrie, ON L4N  (Online Only)
Direct billing is available for most insurance providers. Specializing in mood, personality and neurodevelopmental disorders including depression, anxiety, specific phobia's OCD, ADHD, leaning disabilities, autism, grief, anger, parental mental illness, BPD, bipolar disorder. Modes of therapy practiced include: CBT, DBT and psychodynamic psychotherapy. Lived experience with parental mental illness.
Direct billing is available for most insurance providers. Specializing in mood, personality and neurodevelopmental disorders including depression, anxiety, specific phobia's OCD, ADHD, leaning disabilities, autism, grief, anger, parental mental illness, BPD, bipolar disorder. Modes of therapy practiced include: CBT, DBT and psychodynamic psychotherapy. Lived experience with parental mental illness.
(249) 496-2140 View (249) 496-2140
Photo of undefined - Evolution Counselling Services by Yamilet V Falcon, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Evolution Counselling Services by Yamilet V Falcon
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Barrie, ON L4N
I am the Founder of Evolution Counselling Services. I have extensive work experience in the mental health field as a Clinical Lead, Program Manager and Mental Health Counsellor for almost 10 years. My knowledge and expertise extends to and with individuals suffering from diverse mental health diagnosis (Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, OCD, Eating Disorders, and experiences of Loss, Grief and Trauma) among others. At Evolution Counselling, I seek to empower individuals to achieve internal and external wellness.
I am the Founder of Evolution Counselling Services. I have extensive work experience in the mental health field as a Clinical Lead, Program Manager and Mental Health Counsellor for almost 10 years. My knowledge and expertise extends to and with individuals suffering from diverse mental health diagnosis (Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, OCD, Eating Disorders, and experiences of Loss, Grief and Trauma) among others. At Evolution Counselling, I seek to empower individuals to achieve internal and external wellness.
(249) 487-0479 View (249) 487-0479
Photo of undefined - DBS Professional Services, LLB, BAPsy, MACP, RP, RSW, Registered Psychotherapist
DBS Professional Services
Registered Psychotherapist, LLB, BAPsy, MACP, RP, RSW
Verified Verified
Barrie, ON L4M  (Online Only)
She is experienced with multiple mental health conditions, such as depression, anxiety, stress, relationship, separation/divorce, parenting, bipolar disorder, ADD/ADHD, anger, life transitions, intimacy, as well as adapting and coping.
Danielle successfully completed a Bachelor's Degree in Law & Justice, LLB, and Psychology in 2011, a Master's Degree in Counselling Psychology in 2014, and defending for the Doctor of Counselling and Psychotherapy in 2025. She strongly supports personal and professional development, higher learning, professional skills building, and maintaining professional competency. Danielle offers quality counselling & psychotherapy services in private practice with a compassionate, attentive, professional and person-centred approach. She practices cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT).
She is experienced with multiple mental health conditions, such as depression, anxiety, stress, relationship, separation/divorce, parenting, bipolar disorder, ADD/ADHD, anger, life transitions, intimacy, as well as adapting and coping.
Danielle successfully completed a Bachelor's Degree in Law & Justice, LLB, and Psychology in 2011, a Master's Degree in Counselling Psychology in 2014, and defending for the Doctor of Counselling and Psychotherapy in 2025. She strongly supports personal and professional development, higher learning, professional skills building, and maintaining professional competency. Danielle offers quality counselling & psychotherapy services in private practice with a compassionate, attentive, professional and person-centred approach. She practices cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT).
(249) 490-4407 View (249) 490-4407
Photo of undefined - Ontario Psychotherapy: Trauma and Grief Therapist, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Ontario Psychotherapy: Trauma and Grief Therapist
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Barrie, ON L4M  (Online Only)
My areas of practice include emotion dysregulation (BPD and bipolar disorder), depression and anxiety, and grief and loss.
Are you perpetually in fight or flight or shut down mode? Do your emotions feel out of control? Easily triggered? I'm Rachelle and I’m the face behind OPS, an online therapy practice. I specialize in nervous system stabilization. I work with those who have experienced trauma to process its emotional and the physical effects. My practice incorporates a focus on the mind-body connection, which most clients say was the missing piece in previous therapy. The body goes through just as much as the mind; effective therapy involves paying close attention to the body and developing nervous system resiliency.
My areas of practice include emotion dysregulation (BPD and bipolar disorder), depression and anxiety, and grief and loss.
Are you perpetually in fight or flight or shut down mode? Do your emotions feel out of control? Easily triggered? I'm Rachelle and I’m the face behind OPS, an online therapy practice. I specialize in nervous system stabilization. I work with those who have experienced trauma to process its emotional and the physical effects. My practice incorporates a focus on the mind-body connection, which most clients say was the missing piece in previous therapy. The body goes through just as much as the mind; effective therapy involves paying close attention to the body and developing nervous system resiliency.
(289) 806-5137 View (289) 806-5137
Photo of Candace Putric: Adhd Anxiety Self-Esteem Trauma Adult, MA, RP (Q), Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Candace Putric: Adhd Anxiety Self-Esteem Trauma Adult
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, RP (Q)
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4M
Hello! Are you neurodivergent (ADHD, AuDHD, and ASD) and have questions or challenges? Or do you deal with bipolar? Do you have a complex diagnosis with unique needs? Do you need support with confidence building and/or experience periods of moodiness? Are you looking for affordable and accessible therapy? I have experience and training working in these areas of expertise from a professional and personal point of view. I'd like to help you with your concerns and build your understanding with anything you bring to sessions. Please don't hesitate to contact me to begin your healing journey and restore your life balance.
Hello! Are you neurodivergent (ADHD, AuDHD, and ASD) and have questions or challenges? Or do you deal with bipolar? Do you have a complex diagnosis with unique needs? Do you need support with confidence building and/or experience periods of moodiness? Are you looking for affordable and accessible therapy? I have experience and training working in these areas of expertise from a professional and personal point of view. I'd like to help you with your concerns and build your understanding with anything you bring to sessions. Please don't hesitate to contact me to begin your healing journey and restore your life balance.
(289) 312-4786 View (289) 312-4786
Photo of Monica Logtenberg, RSW, MSW, Registered Social Worker
Monica Logtenberg
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4M
Are you struggling to find balance in your daily life challenges? Do you feel emotional dysregulation, irregular feelings towards important persons in your life, feelings of insignificance in people’s lives, sadness, impulse control. I understand this isolation of feeling dysregulated and trapped without the ability to express intense thoughts and feelings.
Are you struggling to find balance in your daily life challenges? Do you feel emotional dysregulation, irregular feelings towards important persons in your life, feelings of insignificance in people’s lives, sadness, impulse control. I understand this isolation of feeling dysregulated and trapped without the ability to express intense thoughts and feelings.
(289) 277-7096 View (289) 277-7096
Photo of Jessica Squilloni, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Jessica Squilloni
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4N
I am a Registered Psychotherapist through the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario with a Masters degree in Counselling Psychology. I provide evidence-based therapy and skills training in dialectical behaviour therapy. I specialize in issues related to emotion regulation and impulsivity which include borderline personality disorder and other personality disorders, PTSD, suicide as well as mood, anxiety and eating disorders. I have international training with DBT experts from locations including Italy and New York. I have formal training in Cognitive Processing Therapy for PTSD and CBT for anxiety.
I am a Registered Psychotherapist through the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario with a Masters degree in Counselling Psychology. I provide evidence-based therapy and skills training in dialectical behaviour therapy. I specialize in issues related to emotion regulation and impulsivity which include borderline personality disorder and other personality disorders, PTSD, suicide as well as mood, anxiety and eating disorders. I have international training with DBT experts from locations including Italy and New York. I have formal training in Cognitive Processing Therapy for PTSD and CBT for anxiety.
(249) 495-5310 View (249) 495-5310
Photo of undefined - Bay View Therapy Centre, Registered Social Worker
Bay View Therapy Centre
Registered Social Worker
Verified Verified
Barrie, ON L4N
Welcome and thanks for stopping by! We are a team of Registered Social Workers and Psychotherapists with decades of experience working with individuals impacted by trauma, abuse, PTSD, anxiety, depression, addictions, relationship and self-esteem issues. We use a strengths-based, trauma-informed approach to guide our therapeutic interventions and empower people to reach their goals. We believe every individual has the power and strength to work through their adversities, and our role your therapist is to work collaboratively with you to help you acknowledge your strengths, build upon them & heal to live a happy and success.
Welcome and thanks for stopping by! We are a team of Registered Social Workers and Psychotherapists with decades of experience working with individuals impacted by trauma, abuse, PTSD, anxiety, depression, addictions, relationship and self-esteem issues. We use a strengths-based, trauma-informed approach to guide our therapeutic interventions and empower people to reach their goals. We believe every individual has the power and strength to work through their adversities, and our role your therapist is to work collaboratively with you to help you acknowledge your strengths, build upon them & heal to live a happy and success.
(249) 495-5383 View (249) 495-5383
Photo of Robyn Cottrell, BA, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Robyn Cottrell
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA, MACP
Verified Verified
Barrie, ON L4N
ADHD, BPD, Emotions, Relationships/Couples, Anxiety/Stress- You're having a hard time concentrating and getting things done. You struggle to find motivation to complete your daily tasks and then feel down about yourself. You struggle with shifting moods and don't know how to cope. When anxiety and overwhelm take over, it can be hard to function because your concentration and motivation start to slip. And, if you struggle with low mood and negative self-talk, it can be hard to get out of that "funk" and shift to a more productive mindset.
ADHD, BPD, Emotions, Relationships/Couples, Anxiety/Stress- You're having a hard time concentrating and getting things done. You struggle to find motivation to complete your daily tasks and then feel down about yourself. You struggle with shifting moods and don't know how to cope. When anxiety and overwhelm take over, it can be hard to function because your concentration and motivation start to slip. And, if you struggle with low mood and negative self-talk, it can be hard to get out of that "funk" and shift to a more productive mindset.
(249) 523-5275 View (249) 523-5275
Photo of undefined - Therapy Matters , BA Psyc, MACP, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Therapy Matters
Registered Psychotherapist, BA Psyc, MACP, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4M
Hello my name is Catherine Sheehan and I am a Licensed Psychotherapist. I have over 25 years of experience in the mental health field providing counselling and support to individuals experiencing trauma, mental health, addiction, and emotional concerns in a variety of settings. My approach is collaborative, compassionate and integrative using a diverse range of therapeutic interventions to suit the unique needs of each individual, client or couple.
Hello my name is Catherine Sheehan and I am a Licensed Psychotherapist. I have over 25 years of experience in the mental health field providing counselling and support to individuals experiencing trauma, mental health, addiction, and emotional concerns in a variety of settings. My approach is collaborative, compassionate and integrative using a diverse range of therapeutic interventions to suit the unique needs of each individual, client or couple.
(249) 490-8561 View (249) 490-8561
Photo of Kaitlin Baldwin - Therapy And Clinical Supervision, MA, BA, Registered Psychotherapist
Kaitlin Baldwin - Therapy And Clinical Supervision
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, BA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4N
Let’s get this clear from the start: you aren’t ill, disordered, or flawed. You’re a human living in a world that creates constant stress and demands perfection. SO, while we will work on improving your quality of life, we’re going to focus on UNlearning just as much as learning. I like to explore, challenge, and empower you to lean into the difficult stuff using a gentle yet firm approach. My goal is to help you be able to accept those uncomfortable thoughts and feelings without being overwhelmed by them, and to connect you with a sense of confidence, clarity, and courage to live the way you want to.
Let’s get this clear from the start: you aren’t ill, disordered, or flawed. You’re a human living in a world that creates constant stress and demands perfection. SO, while we will work on improving your quality of life, we’re going to focus on UNlearning just as much as learning. I like to explore, challenge, and empower you to lean into the difficult stuff using a gentle yet firm approach. My goal is to help you be able to accept those uncomfortable thoughts and feelings without being overwhelmed by them, and to connect you with a sense of confidence, clarity, and courage to live the way you want to.
(249) 493-6435 View (249) 493-6435
Photo of undefined - Central Ontario Psychology, PhD, CPsych, Psychologist
Central Ontario Psychology
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
Barrie, ON L4N
Central Ontario Psychology is a diverse group practice. We offer psychotherapy, clinical assessment, and psychoeducational assessment. Services are provided by psychologists, or under their close supervision. Our clients include adults children adolescents and seniors. We treat anxiety, depression, behavioural and conduct disorders. We offer specialized treatment for trauma, whether from childhood, the workplace, the military, or in First Responders.
Central Ontario Psychology is a diverse group practice. We offer psychotherapy, clinical assessment, and psychoeducational assessment. Services are provided by psychologists, or under their close supervision. Our clients include adults children adolescents and seniors. We treat anxiety, depression, behavioural and conduct disorders. We offer specialized treatment for trauma, whether from childhood, the workplace, the military, or in First Responders.
(705) 980-1066 View (705) 980-1066
Photo of Carol L McDowell, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Carol L McDowell
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4N
When I was young, I wanted to be a writer. I went into journalism and that’s where I figured out why I was so obsessed with stories. True stories heal us. I have spent the last 30 years, both personally and professionally, in the field of addiction. I became increasingly sad as I witnessed the suffering that goes along with substance abuse and behavioural addictions. I learned as a volunteer and mentor that helping people uncover their true story also creates healing. So, I went to Yorkville University and obtained a master’s degree in counselling psychology.
When I was young, I wanted to be a writer. I went into journalism and that’s where I figured out why I was so obsessed with stories. True stories heal us. I have spent the last 30 years, both personally and professionally, in the field of addiction. I became increasingly sad as I witnessed the suffering that goes along with substance abuse and behavioural addictions. I learned as a volunteer and mentor that helping people uncover their true story also creates healing. So, I went to Yorkville University and obtained a master’s degree in counselling psychology.
(249) 700-5478 View (249) 700-5478
Photo of Megan Garvey, RP, MACP, BA, Registered Psychotherapist
Megan Garvey
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MACP, BA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4N
Anxiety/Stress, ADHD, Child/Parenting, Emotion Regulation- Perhaps you are feeling overwhelmed, stressed and exhausted, and it's starting to take a toll on your parenting, work, relationships, and personal life. Your emotions are becoming harder to "control" and you feel like you're breaking down. Life is starting to feel daunting & hopeless and you're unsure how to get out of this rut, possibly turning to unhealthy coping methods. If this sounds like you, I'm here to help you overcome the emotional burnout and start making positive changes towards the person, parent, and partner you want to be.
Anxiety/Stress, ADHD, Child/Parenting, Emotion Regulation- Perhaps you are feeling overwhelmed, stressed and exhausted, and it's starting to take a toll on your parenting, work, relationships, and personal life. Your emotions are becoming harder to "control" and you feel like you're breaking down. Life is starting to feel daunting & hopeless and you're unsure how to get out of this rut, possibly turning to unhealthy coping methods. If this sounds like you, I'm here to help you overcome the emotional burnout and start making positive changes towards the person, parent, and partner you want to be.
(249) 444-0419 View (249) 444-0419
Photo of Katie Ryzebol, MDiv, RP (Q), Registered Psychotherapist
Katie Ryzebol
Registered Psychotherapist, MDiv, RP (Q)
Verified Verified
Barrie, ON L4N  (Online Only)
Welcome! I'm Katie :) I am compassionate, attentive, and hopeful for change as I journey with clients towards reaching their counselling goals. .I understand clients are approaching me with difficcult and personal issues. I am passionate about empowering clients to face their mental health challenges so they can realize the hope that exists for them to live a fuller life. I also recognize the need to support, equip, and educate members of the community ( family members, friends, colleagues etc.) of those living with difficult mental health trials.
Welcome! I'm Katie :) I am compassionate, attentive, and hopeful for change as I journey with clients towards reaching their counselling goals. .I understand clients are approaching me with difficcult and personal issues. I am passionate about empowering clients to face their mental health challenges so they can realize the hope that exists for them to live a fuller life. I also recognize the need to support, equip, and educate members of the community ( family members, friends, colleagues etc.) of those living with difficult mental health trials.
(289) 677-8524 View (289) 677-8524
Photo of Courtney Marie Firetto, MSW, Registered Social Worker
Courtney Marie Firetto
Registered Social Worker, MSW
Verified Verified
Barrie, ON L4M
Thank you for stopping by! My name is Courtney. I am an energetic and motivated professional who is passionate about improving mental health and well-being. I have worked in a number of settings, including community mental health agencies, hospitals, and independent consulting. I have served a range of client populations. These experiences have taught me so much, namely that serving others gives my life meaning! As a clinician, I come with my lived experiences of mental health challenges, including anxiety, ADHD, and low mood. I know how important it is to have a therapist you can connect with. I hope to be this for you!
Thank you for stopping by! My name is Courtney. I am an energetic and motivated professional who is passionate about improving mental health and well-being. I have worked in a number of settings, including community mental health agencies, hospitals, and independent consulting. I have served a range of client populations. These experiences have taught me so much, namely that serving others gives my life meaning! As a clinician, I come with my lived experiences of mental health challenges, including anxiety, ADHD, and low mood. I know how important it is to have a therapist you can connect with. I hope to be this for you!
(249) 202-2256 View (249) 202-2256
Photo of Emma Giao, RP, MA , BA, Registered Psychotherapist
Emma Giao
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MA , BA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4M  (Online Only)
Hello, I'm Emma! Thanks for stopping by my profile. Are you and your partner struggling with communication issues, pregnancy/infant loss, intimacy, or fostering trust? Perhaps you are a neurodivergent individual who wants someone to help guide you in the day-to-day. Maybe you are a man trying to find a safe space to pursue mental health services... Who ever you are, my aim is to provide a secure environment for us to collaborate and guide you without judgment. Together, we'll tackle life's challenges to help you become your desired self!
Hello, I'm Emma! Thanks for stopping by my profile. Are you and your partner struggling with communication issues, pregnancy/infant loss, intimacy, or fostering trust? Perhaps you are a neurodivergent individual who wants someone to help guide you in the day-to-day. Maybe you are a man trying to find a safe space to pursue mental health services... Who ever you are, my aim is to provide a secure environment for us to collaborate and guide you without judgment. Together, we'll tackle life's challenges to help you become your desired self!
(249) 523-2560 View (249) 523-2560
Photo of undefined - SoulScape Services, BAHon, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
SoulScape Services
Registered Psychotherapist, BAHon, MA, RP
Verified Verified
Barrie, ON L4N
Therapy shouldn't feel like a chore. While it might sometimes be hard to hear what is discussed in therapy, overall you should leave feeling like you've gained something useful or even transformative. Over time, you should feel you are getting stronger, more resilient and have shed layers of fear and anxiety. Of course this process can be overwhelming at times and you might not always progress on the timeframe that you thought you would, but when therapy goes well, you should feel more settled and more clear about your life. You should gain understanding about yourself and others and have a renewed sense of purpose and passion
Therapy shouldn't feel like a chore. While it might sometimes be hard to hear what is discussed in therapy, overall you should leave feeling like you've gained something useful or even transformative. Over time, you should feel you are getting stronger, more resilient and have shed layers of fear and anxiety. Of course this process can be overwhelming at times and you might not always progress on the timeframe that you thought you would, but when therapy goes well, you should feel more settled and more clear about your life. You should gain understanding about yourself and others and have a renewed sense of purpose and passion
(249) 202-2232 View (249) 202-2232
Photo of Karen Szabo, BA, MACP, RP(Q), Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Karen Szabo
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA, MACP, RP(Q)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4N
NO WAIT-LIST & In-Person appts! Anxiety/Stress/Burnout, Prenatal/Postpartum, Couples/Relationships & Trauma Specialist- You feel overwhelmed by every little thing and are experiencing a lot of stress/anxiety as a result. You feel down about yourself for letting things "slip" but just can't find the motivation to make changes. Perhaps life just feels like "too much" right now and it's starting to take a toll on your self-esteem and ability to cope with your stress. When you have a lot on your plate and just cant seem to catch a break, it can be hard to find the good in life and think clearly. This is where therapy can help!
NO WAIT-LIST & In-Person appts! Anxiety/Stress/Burnout, Prenatal/Postpartum, Couples/Relationships & Trauma Specialist- You feel overwhelmed by every little thing and are experiencing a lot of stress/anxiety as a result. You feel down about yourself for letting things "slip" but just can't find the motivation to make changes. Perhaps life just feels like "too much" right now and it's starting to take a toll on your self-esteem and ability to cope with your stress. When you have a lot on your plate and just cant seem to catch a break, it can be hard to find the good in life and think clearly. This is where therapy can help!
(249) 488-2424 View (249) 488-2424

See more therapy options for Barrie

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.