Bipolar Disorder Counselling in South West London, London

Photo of Dr Alice Fiorica, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Alice Fiorica
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South West London, London SW11
Hello, I am Alice. I am a registered Psychologist and CBT therapist. I am experienced in Mindfulness and third wave CBT developments such as ACT. I work primarily with adults 18+ and couples. I specialise in the treatment of Stress and Anxiety disorders (such as OCD, PTSD, Panic, Perfectionism, Social Anxiety and Impostor Syndrome); Depression and Bipolar Disorder; Trauma and relationship problems. I also help clients to achieve the life they want to live through self development and working on living their values.
Hello, I am Alice. I am a registered Psychologist and CBT therapist. I am experienced in Mindfulness and third wave CBT developments such as ACT. I work primarily with adults 18+ and couples. I specialise in the treatment of Stress and Anxiety disorders (such as OCD, PTSD, Panic, Perfectionism, Social Anxiety and Impostor Syndrome); Depression and Bipolar Disorder; Trauma and relationship problems. I also help clients to achieve the life they want to live through self development and working on living their values.
020 8103 3924 View 020 8103 3924
Photo of Aziz Yaghoubi Anzabi - Dr. Aziz Anzabi, PhD, ACC-AC, Counsellor
Dr. Aziz Anzabi
Counsellor, PhD, ACC-AC
Verified Verified
South West London, London SW10
I have spent several years working with couples therapy, bipolar, depression ,anxiety disorders, addiction, PMS ,infant loss and OCD .I'm committed to providing counselling with the most up-to-date techniques to build a healing and therapeutic relationship with clients. I will help my client to recover from stress, anxiety, trauma and loss. During the sessions I ensure that the relationship between me and the client is a safe and supportive, one in order to allow the client to freely express their problems. Each session will be fully effective in order to help my patients solve or overcome their problem.
I have spent several years working with couples therapy, bipolar, depression ,anxiety disorders, addiction, PMS ,infant loss and OCD .I'm committed to providing counselling with the most up-to-date techniques to build a healing and therapeutic relationship with clients. I will help my client to recover from stress, anxiety, trauma and loss. During the sessions I ensure that the relationship between me and the client is a safe and supportive, one in order to allow the client to freely express their problems. Each session will be fully effective in order to help my patients solve or overcome their problem.
07446 500016 View 07446 500016
Photo of Thomas Sherry - Thomas Sherry. Psychotherapy /Psychosexual Therapy, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Thomas Sherry. Psychotherapy /Psychosexual Therapy
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
South West London, London SW4
I have worked as a psychotherapist for over 15 years. I work with a range of people presenting with complex difficulties. Such as ADHD , bipolar disorder, BPD, Anxeity, Depression, relationship difficulties, sexual problems , low self esteem, self doubt , imposter syndrome. I'm here to help you understand the lables given by yourself and others, and how they form part of your self-belief system and which can be supportive or undermining. I love seeing how clients thrive by having a confidential space to express themselves honestly and gain a deep perspective on their life.
I have worked as a psychotherapist for over 15 years. I work with a range of people presenting with complex difficulties. Such as ADHD , bipolar disorder, BPD, Anxeity, Depression, relationship difficulties, sexual problems , low self esteem, self doubt , imposter syndrome. I'm here to help you understand the lables given by yourself and others, and how they form part of your self-belief system and which can be supportive or undermining. I love seeing how clients thrive by having a confidential space to express themselves honestly and gain a deep perspective on their life.
020 3835 4688 View 020 3835 4688
Photo of Bettina Salzmann, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Bettina Salzmann
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
South West London, London SW14
I have worked with individuals presenting with anxiety, General anxiety disorders, depression, stress,OCD, panic attacks, phobias, trauma, PTSD,childhood abuse, domestic violence, autism, agraphobia,bereavement,loss,sudden/ traumatic death,relationship issues,suicide,addiction, eating disorders, bipolar and personality disorder using DBT amongst others.
I am an experienced CBT therapist and integrative counsellor/psychotherapist working in private practice for Anxiety, Trauma, Personality Disorder, Depression, family mediation.I use mindfulness with my clients to help them to become more aware of the present moment and in acknowledging feelings and thoughts as they come and go.It’s been accepted as a useful therapy for anxiety and depression for years, and research suggests it's effective when practising reflection on yourself, switching off your auto pilot in order to discover your real feelings, and this can have an positive influence on our well being.
I have worked with individuals presenting with anxiety, General anxiety disorders, depression, stress,OCD, panic attacks, phobias, trauma, PTSD,childhood abuse, domestic violence, autism, agraphobia,bereavement,loss,sudden/ traumatic death,relationship issues,suicide,addiction, eating disorders, bipolar and personality disorder using DBT amongst others.
I am an experienced CBT therapist and integrative counsellor/psychotherapist working in private practice for Anxiety, Trauma, Personality Disorder, Depression, family mediation.I use mindfulness with my clients to help them to become more aware of the present moment and in acknowledging feelings and thoughts as they come and go.It’s been accepted as a useful therapy for anxiety and depression for years, and research suggests it's effective when practising reflection on yourself, switching off your auto pilot in order to discover your real feelings, and this can have an positive influence on our well being.
01748 900742 View 01748 900742
Photo of Anastasios Toumpanakis, PsychD, CPsychol, Psychologist
Anastasios Toumpanakis
Psychologist, PsychD, CPsychol
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South West London, London SW5
Need to find the right person to talk to? If you have only just started to look for help you maybe feeling confused or even overwhelmed by the choice of therapies and therapists available - I understand and am here to help. I work with a wide range of concerns including complex and longstanding conditions, such as anxiety disorders, depression, personality disorders, obsessive compulsive disorder, alcohol/drug/gambling addiction, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, bipolar affective disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and psychosis.
Need to find the right person to talk to? If you have only just started to look for help you maybe feeling confused or even overwhelmed by the choice of therapies and therapists available - I understand and am here to help. I work with a wide range of concerns including complex and longstanding conditions, such as anxiety disorders, depression, personality disorders, obsessive compulsive disorder, alcohol/drug/gambling addiction, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, bipolar affective disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and psychosis.
020 7046 0669 View 020 7046 0669
Photo of Philippa Devas, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Philippa Devas
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South West London, London SW3
I also work with dissociative disorder and bipolar disorder.
Beginning therapy and finding a therapist can be a daunting process, although just taking the first step of reaching out to one is the most courageous step. I offer a confidential safe space - either in person on online - to talk about your concerns or anything which is currently troubling you at the same time and day each week. The regularity of sessions and the relationship between client and therapist which develops is part of the journey of healing that therapy can provide. I am a fully qualified and accredited psychotherapist with experience of working with people to help them heal and feel better about themselves.
I also work with dissociative disorder and bipolar disorder.
Beginning therapy and finding a therapist can be a daunting process, although just taking the first step of reaching out to one is the most courageous step. I offer a confidential safe space - either in person on online - to talk about your concerns or anything which is currently troubling you at the same time and day each week. The regularity of sessions and the relationship between client and therapist which develops is part of the journey of healing that therapy can provide. I am a fully qualified and accredited psychotherapist with experience of working with people to help them heal and feel better about themselves.
020 8138 8415 View 020 8138 8415
Photo of Samantha McDonnell, MBACP, Counsellor
Samantha McDonnell
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
South West London, London SW6
I work with a diverse range of clients and issues, including extensive experience with LGBTQ, those with personality disorders, PTSD/CPTSD, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, low self-esteem, and/or survivors of bullying, sexual, domestic or historical abuse.
Are you affected by issues like anxiety, depression, addiction, abuse, loss, or relationships? My approach is compassionate and holistic, incorporating Sensorimotor Psyhotherapy, Internal Family Systems and Emotional Freedom Technique, to treat the somatic, emotional and psychological elements of unresolved trauma. Such symptoms may lie deep within the body, often at an unconscious level, and which traditional talking therapies may fail to address. I value our uniqueness as individuals and believe that we each have an innate capacity for healing and growth. I work with adults and offer both short-term and open-ended work.
I work with a diverse range of clients and issues, including extensive experience with LGBTQ, those with personality disorders, PTSD/CPTSD, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, low self-esteem, and/or survivors of bullying, sexual, domestic or historical abuse.
Are you affected by issues like anxiety, depression, addiction, abuse, loss, or relationships? My approach is compassionate and holistic, incorporating Sensorimotor Psyhotherapy, Internal Family Systems and Emotional Freedom Technique, to treat the somatic, emotional and psychological elements of unresolved trauma. Such symptoms may lie deep within the body, often at an unconscious level, and which traditional talking therapies may fail to address. I value our uniqueness as individuals and believe that we each have an innate capacity for healing and growth. I work with adults and offer both short-term and open-ended work.
020 3973 9250 View 020 3973 9250
Photo of Charity Northan, MA, Counsellor
Charity Northan
Counsellor, MA
Verified Verified
South West London, London SW2  (Online Only)
I'm here to help you address trauma, anxiety, bipolar disorder, dissociative identity disorder, and depression.
You might be going through tough times; struggling with past trauma, feeling anxious, moody, rejected and depressed; or having difficulty maintaining romantic or family relationships and friendships. Maybe you're not sure what is real or unreal anymore. Perhaps, you are not sure what you believe, or you feel you are struggling with your faith in God. I want to help you. We'll work together using not only evidenced based practices, but also biblical principles to help you sort things out. Let's blend psychological tools with life coaching, and the power of faith to help you bounce back, embrace who you are, and walk in your purpose.
I'm here to help you address trauma, anxiety, bipolar disorder, dissociative identity disorder, and depression.
You might be going through tough times; struggling with past trauma, feeling anxious, moody, rejected and depressed; or having difficulty maintaining romantic or family relationships and friendships. Maybe you're not sure what is real or unreal anymore. Perhaps, you are not sure what you believe, or you feel you are struggling with your faith in God. I want to help you. We'll work together using not only evidenced based practices, but also biblical principles to help you sort things out. Let's blend psychological tools with life coaching, and the power of faith to help you bounce back, embrace who you are, and walk in your purpose.
020 3985 7572 View 020 3985 7572
Photo of Eoghan Naughton, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Eoghan Naughton
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South West London, London SW7
My approach aims to provide a safe and trusted space, respectful of each individual's capacity for personal growth. Psychotherapy seeks to help each individual live a more fulfilling life. My aim is to help each person find what works in dealing with the particular circumstances and stresses which cause suffering. I have experience and training in working with complex and longstanding mental health problems such as interpersonal difficulties, bipolar affective disorder, severe depression, trauma and anxiety and currently work in the NHS in secondary care. I have worked as a visiting lecturer at City University.
My approach aims to provide a safe and trusted space, respectful of each individual's capacity for personal growth. Psychotherapy seeks to help each individual live a more fulfilling life. My aim is to help each person find what works in dealing with the particular circumstances and stresses which cause suffering. I have experience and training in working with complex and longstanding mental health problems such as interpersonal difficulties, bipolar affective disorder, severe depression, trauma and anxiety and currently work in the NHS in secondary care. I have worked as a visiting lecturer at City University.
020 3974 1455 View 020 3974 1455
Photo of Melissa Thompson, DCounsPsych, MBACP, Counsellor
Melissa Thompson
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
South West London, London SW6
I specialise in the following areas anxiety/generalised anxiety disorder, depression, stress, bereavement, trauma, low self esteem, abuse, bipolar, obsessive compulsive disorder and relationship problems.
Reaching out for help can be hard but it is an important step in the right direction towards living your life fully. Sometimes trying to navigate through life alone can be confusing and speaking to friends or family can often be too difficult, this is why talking to a neutral professional counsellor can provide you with the support you need. I offer a safe, confidential and non-judgemental space where you can explore the areas of your life that you are struggling with. By exploring your thoughts, feelings and behaviours of the past and present I can help you gain better self-awareness and overcome the obstacles weighing you down.
I specialise in the following areas anxiety/generalised anxiety disorder, depression, stress, bereavement, trauma, low self esteem, abuse, bipolar, obsessive compulsive disorder and relationship problems.
Reaching out for help can be hard but it is an important step in the right direction towards living your life fully. Sometimes trying to navigate through life alone can be confusing and speaking to friends or family can often be too difficult, this is why talking to a neutral professional counsellor can provide you with the support you need. I offer a safe, confidential and non-judgemental space where you can explore the areas of your life that you are struggling with. By exploring your thoughts, feelings and behaviours of the past and present I can help you gain better self-awareness and overcome the obstacles weighing you down.
020 8138 0228 View 020 8138 0228
Photo of Dr Zarina Prayag, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Zarina Prayag
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
South West London, London SW3  (Online Only)
I am a Clinical Psychologist with over 15 years’ experience working with clients with a range of difficulties, including low mood, self-esteem issues, worry, anxiety, social anxiety, OCD, phobias, relationship issues, trauma, psychosis, schizophrenia, and bipolar affective disorder. I have a special interest in working with clients with anxiety-related difficulties, and self-esteem and self-confidence issues. I am experienced in working with clients in the corporate sector, and people in sport. I also have experience working with clients with Asperger’s Syndrome, and adapt therapy to meet the needs of my clients.
I am a Clinical Psychologist with over 15 years’ experience working with clients with a range of difficulties, including low mood, self-esteem issues, worry, anxiety, social anxiety, OCD, phobias, relationship issues, trauma, psychosis, schizophrenia, and bipolar affective disorder. I have a special interest in working with clients with anxiety-related difficulties, and self-esteem and self-confidence issues. I am experienced in working with clients in the corporate sector, and people in sport. I also have experience working with clients with Asperger’s Syndrome, and adapt therapy to meet the needs of my clients.
01883 779613 View 01883 779613
Photo of Nandu Menon, MA, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Nandu Menon
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Verified Verified
South West London, London SW7
I specialise in Trauma (including PTSD), Psychosis, Bipolar, Anxiety Spectrum problems, Depression, Bereavement, with over 11 yrs.
You may experience unexpected disruption, chronic conditions, major life upheaval, triggering of past experiences, bereavement, and any of these could create anxiety, trauma or depression. Understanding could fall away, your support system could become unhelpful, anti-depressants may not be effective and your coping mechanisms may not work. You may feel overpowered by your circumstances and perhaps seek support and reinforcement as you experience distress. You may want your complex issues to be contained and get some tools and techniques to cope. Perhaps you may just like to confide in someone and share your experience.
I specialise in Trauma (including PTSD), Psychosis, Bipolar, Anxiety Spectrum problems, Depression, Bereavement, with over 11 yrs.
You may experience unexpected disruption, chronic conditions, major life upheaval, triggering of past experiences, bereavement, and any of these could create anxiety, trauma or depression. Understanding could fall away, your support system could become unhelpful, anti-depressants may not be effective and your coping mechanisms may not work. You may feel overpowered by your circumstances and perhaps seek support and reinforcement as you experience distress. You may want your complex issues to be contained and get some tools and techniques to cope. Perhaps you may just like to confide in someone and share your experience.
020 4538 4478 View 020 4538 4478
Photo of Michaela de Cruz - MdC Music Therapy, MA, HCPC-Music Therap., Psychotherapist
MdC Music Therapy
Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Music Therap.
Verified Verified
South West London, London SW7  (Online Only)
I believe in each person’s innate musicality (Trevarthen and Malloch 2000) and recognise each person’s musical and creative core. I believe we are all resilient and resourceful but that many forces in the world, including racism, sexism, colonialism, capitalism, and more, consistently try to disconnect us from our inner power and the power of our collective communities. I believe strongly in the capacity of music in therapy to restore this connection, empowering us to access our authentic musicality and creativity and our buried resilience. I am here to support your healing in the way that feels best for you.
I believe in each person’s innate musicality (Trevarthen and Malloch 2000) and recognise each person’s musical and creative core. I believe we are all resilient and resourceful but that many forces in the world, including racism, sexism, colonialism, capitalism, and more, consistently try to disconnect us from our inner power and the power of our collective communities. I believe strongly in the capacity of music in therapy to restore this connection, empowering us to access our authentic musicality and creativity and our buried resilience. I am here to support your healing in the way that feels best for you.
020 3879 4239 View 020 3879 4239
Photo of Amy Cumber, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Amy Cumber
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
South West London, London SW11
Life can evoke a variety of emotions and struggles. I work with individuals and couples in Kent, London, Sussex and across the UK remotely. I care passionately about the needs of my clients to empower you to move forwards in your life wherever you path is currently at. Life is sometimes full of difficulties and uncertainties we can feel overwhelmed by loss, trauma, body image, addictions, relationship issues and problems in our workplace or home life to name a few. I work in a non-judgmental supportive manner helping you to explore & understand your thoughts & emotions. I I have some concession rates available on a sliding scale.
Life can evoke a variety of emotions and struggles. I work with individuals and couples in Kent, London, Sussex and across the UK remotely. I care passionately about the needs of my clients to empower you to move forwards in your life wherever you path is currently at. Life is sometimes full of difficulties and uncertainties we can feel overwhelmed by loss, trauma, body image, addictions, relationship issues and problems in our workplace or home life to name a few. I work in a non-judgmental supportive manner helping you to explore & understand your thoughts & emotions. I I have some concession rates available on a sliding scale.
01732 444051 View 01732 444051
Photo of Stephanie Mackenzie, BACP, Counsellor
Stephanie Mackenzie
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South West London, London SW4
I work with individuals to help them work through difficulties and challenges that are stopping them from flourishing and living the life they really want. I am an integrative counsellor and my approach is characterised by deep acceptance, warmth and non-judgement. My work is particularly informed by trauma theory, attachment theory, and transactional analysis. I am experienced in working with depression, anxiety, addictions, relationship issues and disordered eating/eating disorders.
I work with individuals to help them work through difficulties and challenges that are stopping them from flourishing and living the life they really want. I am an integrative counsellor and my approach is characterised by deep acceptance, warmth and non-judgement. My work is particularly informed by trauma theory, attachment theory, and transactional analysis. I am experienced in working with depression, anxiety, addictions, relationship issues and disordered eating/eating disorders.
020 3835 4259 View 020 3835 4259
Photo of Noemi Lercara, PsychD, MBACP, Counsellor
Noemi Lercara
Counsellor, PsychD, MBACP
Verified Verified
South West London, London SW11
In life we can often encounter difficult times that might feel unbearable; even a real sense of struggle in getting through them. The loss of a loved one, the end of a relationship, an illness, a traumatic experience, a struggle in our own sense of identity and self-esteem, plus many more life changing experiences. These are all changes that can deeply impact our lives, and are reasons for which deciding to seek counselling support is a very courageous choice to make. Often the process in seeking a counsellor can be a really overwhelming experience, as talking about our own feelings and emotions can be distressing and painful.
In life we can often encounter difficult times that might feel unbearable; even a real sense of struggle in getting through them. The loss of a loved one, the end of a relationship, an illness, a traumatic experience, a struggle in our own sense of identity and self-esteem, plus many more life changing experiences. These are all changes that can deeply impact our lives, and are reasons for which deciding to seek counselling support is a very courageous choice to make. Often the process in seeking a counsellor can be a really overwhelming experience, as talking about our own feelings and emotions can be distressing and painful.
020 3917 4604 View 020 3917 4604
Photo of Dr Natalia Kouzoupi, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Natalia Kouzoupi
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
South West London, London SW5  (Online Only)
Embarking on a journey of self-discovery and emotional well-being is a courageous step towards a more fulfilling life. At our therapy sessions, you'll find a safe and confidential space where you can explore and address a range of concerns, from mental health challenges and relationship issues to life transitions and personal growth. I support adults and children in navigating various mental health difficulties, including anxiety, panic, phobias, low mood, relational difficulties, self-esteem, trauma and parenting challenges.
Embarking on a journey of self-discovery and emotional well-being is a courageous step towards a more fulfilling life. At our therapy sessions, you'll find a safe and confidential space where you can explore and address a range of concerns, from mental health challenges and relationship issues to life transitions and personal growth. I support adults and children in navigating various mental health difficulties, including anxiety, panic, phobias, low mood, relational difficulties, self-esteem, trauma and parenting challenges.
020 3837 3601 View 020 3837 3601
Photo of Veronika Kloucek, MA, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist
Veronika Kloucek
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
South West London, London SW20
Many reasons can bring us to therapy whether they are temporary difficulties, long-term struggles or the desire for personal development. I offer a warm, non-judgmental and confidential space in which you can talk openly about any aspects of your life in a way which might not be possible with friends or family. I am here to listen and to work with you so that you can start to make sense of your feelings and create positive change in your life.
Many reasons can bring us to therapy whether they are temporary difficulties, long-term struggles or the desire for personal development. I offer a warm, non-judgmental and confidential space in which you can talk openly about any aspects of your life in a way which might not be possible with friends or family. I am here to listen and to work with you so that you can start to make sense of your feelings and create positive change in your life.
01748 902285 View 01748 902285
Photo of Dr Justine Bush, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Justine Bush
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
South West London, London SW11
Current availability: February 2024, In-person appointments Thursday evenings, Clapham North, £140 . At times life can become overwhelming and the strategies which used to help us cope can get in the way of us living the life that we aspire towards. I provide evidence-based therapies to support you in recovering from difficulties with your mental health and with pursuing a life that is personally meaningful and worthwhile. If you would like to pursue therapy with me then please visit my website.
Current availability: February 2024, In-person appointments Thursday evenings, Clapham North, £140 . At times life can become overwhelming and the strategies which used to help us cope can get in the way of us living the life that we aspire towards. I provide evidence-based therapies to support you in recovering from difficulties with your mental health and with pursuing a life that is personally meaningful and worthwhile. If you would like to pursue therapy with me then please visit my website.
07813 523160 View 07813 523160
Photo of Tiddy Redpath - Clarendon Psychotherapy and Counselling, MSc, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Clarendon Psychotherapy and Counselling
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Verified Verified
South West London, London SW1V
As a relational humanistic psychotherapist, I specialise in creating a warm and safe, non-judgmental and empathic space where clients are able to explore any difficult thoughts, feelings and behaviours that are getting in the way of healthy living, gaining insight into how to go forward. Oftentimes having suffered a significant life event such as a loss or bereavement, perhaps a divorce or other confusing relationship issues in the distant past, we become blocked, needing effective strategies and techniques to continue. I work online (during Covid lockdowns) by telephone or face to face, in both short and long term settings.
As a relational humanistic psychotherapist, I specialise in creating a warm and safe, non-judgmental and empathic space where clients are able to explore any difficult thoughts, feelings and behaviours that are getting in the way of healthy living, gaining insight into how to go forward. Oftentimes having suffered a significant life event such as a loss or bereavement, perhaps a divorce or other confusing relationship issues in the distant past, we become blocked, needing effective strategies and techniques to continue. I work online (during Covid lockdowns) by telephone or face to face, in both short and long term settings.
020 4538 0602 View 020 4538 0602

See more therapy options for South West London, London

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.