Find a therapist for mood disorders

Mood disorders present differently depending on the type and the individual, but certain patterns are broadly recognised.

Depressive episodes

• Persistent low mood, emptiness, or hopelessness lasting most of the day, nearly every day
• Significant loss of interest or pleasure in activities that were previously enjoyable
• Changes in sleep, appetite, energy, or concentration that are noticeable and sustained
• Feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt
• Difficulty thinking clearly, making decisions, or carrying out daily tasks

Elevated or manic episodes (bipolar spectrum)

• Unusually elevated, expansive, or irritable mood lasting at least several days
• Significantly decreased need for sleep without feeling tired
• Racing thoughts, rapid speech, or a sense of greatly increased energy
• Impulsive or high-risk behaviour that is out of character
• Inflated sense of ability or importance

Only a qualified mental health professional can assess whether these experiences meet the criteria for a mood disorder and determine which type. If you are experiencing thoughts of suicide or self-harm, please contact a crisis line or your nearest emergency service.

Mood disorders are well treated by a combination of psychological therapy and, in some cases, psychiatric support. The most effective approach depends on the type and severity of the condition.

• CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) CBT has a strong evidence base for depression and is also used in modified forms for bipolar disorder, helping to identify and change thought patterns that sustain or intensify mood episodes.
• Psychodynamic therapy Psychodynamic approaches explore the emotional and relational roots of mood disturbance, useful when mood disorder is entangled with longstanding patterns or difficult earlier experiences.
• Psychiatry Psychiatrists assess mood disorders comprehensively, can prescribe and monitor medication where indicated, and often work alongside a therapist in a combined treatment plan.
• Schema therapy Schema therapy addresses the deep-rooted beliefs and emotional patterns that can sustain chronic low mood or drive the relational difficulties that accompany mood disorders.
• ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) ACT helps build psychological flexibility in response to difficult mood states, focusing on living in accordance with values even when mood is difficult rather than waiting until it resolves.

Choosing an approach isn't something you have to do alone. IC's matching can pair you with a therapist whose approach suits your situation. Get matched.

It's Complicated is a therapist-founded mental health platform connecting clients with verified practitioners across Europe and globally, in over 60 languages. We work with over 2,500 vetted therapists, with in-person availability in Berlin, Amsterdam, Barcelona, Lisbon, Vienna, and other major cities, alongside online sessions worldwide. It's Complicated is free to use, and you pay your chosen therapist directly at rates they set. Finding a therapist who understands your specific mood disorder, whether that is depression, bipolar disorder, or something on the spectrum between them, matters more than finding a generalist. Our matching service is built to remove that friction. You complete a short survey, our psychologists combine data-driven insights with human judgement to identify the right therapists for your situation, and you choose from a shortlist of strong candidates. You can also browse our directory directly if you'd prefer to choose yourself. Get matched with a therapist who specialises in mood disorders, or browse the directory.