Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Saluda, VA

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Photo of Monica Durrette, Psychologist in Saluda, VA
Monica Durrette
Psychologist, PhD, LCP
Verified Verified
Urbanna, VA 23175
Whether you find yourself struggling to cope with the sudden demands of major life changes or challenges related to chronic mental health issues, making the decision to seek help can be difficult and confusing. I have a small, private practice where I provide counseling and assessment services to individuals presenting with a range of concerns including depression, anxiety, and PTSD, as well as emotional challenges related to serious illness, grief following the death of a loved one, or divorce.
Whether you find yourself struggling to cope with the sudden demands of major life changes or challenges related to chronic mental health issues, making the decision to seek help can be difficult and confusing. I have a small, private practice where I provide counseling and assessment services to individuals presenting with a range of concerns including depression, anxiety, and PTSD, as well as emotional challenges related to serious illness, grief following the death of a loved one, or divorce.
(804) 375-4743 View (804) 375-4743

Online Therapists

Photo of Christabel Ekechukwu, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saluda, VA
Christabel Ekechukwu
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Falls Church, VA 22044  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Texas, and Virginia. The disorders I work with are bipolar disorders, depression, schizophrenia, anxiety, suicidal ideation, self injurious behaviors, crisis interventions, and trauma. I enjoy working with children, adolescents, and adults. I enjoy working with different ethnic and religious backgrounds. I am very familiar with the African culture, because I come from Nigeria.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Texas, and Virginia. The disorders I work with are bipolar disorders, depression, schizophrenia, anxiety, suicidal ideation, self injurious behaviors, crisis interventions, and trauma. I enjoy working with children, adolescents, and adults. I enjoy working with different ethnic and religious backgrounds. I am very familiar with the African culture, because I come from Nigeria.
(832) 669-5462 View (832) 669-5462
Photo of Freya Rodriguez, Pre-Licensed Professional in Saluda, VA
Freya Rodriguez
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, SSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chesterfield, VA 23832
One of the most useful tools that a therapist has is the relationship that is built between the client and clinician. I believe that therapy can mirror the process of building new friendships, there will be people that you connect with and I hope I will be one of them. I have experience working with Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, Family therapy, survivors of violence, and more. My goal is to work together to identify a treatment that feels obtainable for you while encouraging strength and growth. I am also able to offer services in Spanish and understand the complexities of growing up in two different cultures.
One of the most useful tools that a therapist has is the relationship that is built between the client and clinician. I believe that therapy can mirror the process of building new friendships, there will be people that you connect with and I hope I will be one of them. I have experience working with Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, Family therapy, survivors of violence, and more. My goal is to work together to identify a treatment that feels obtainable for you while encouraging strength and growth. I am also able to offer services in Spanish and understand the complexities of growing up in two different cultures.
(804) 657-4957 View (804) 657-4957
Photo of Michael Tinsley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saluda, VA
Michael Tinsley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23464  (Online Only)
I have several years of experience in working with children, adults, and families, on a broad array of issues ranging from depression, anxiety, bipolar, ADHD, schizophrenia, substance abuse and trauma.
I am a Graduate of Howard University and UNC Charlotte, I have a BA in Psychology and a Masters in Social Work. I have a passion for working with individuals, couples and families who seek change to become happier, healthier and gain control over obstacles that are weighing them down.
I have several years of experience in working with children, adults, and families, on a broad array of issues ranging from depression, anxiety, bipolar, ADHD, schizophrenia, substance abuse and trauma.
I am a Graduate of Howard University and UNC Charlotte, I have a BA in Psychology and a Masters in Social Work. I have a passion for working with individuals, couples and families who seek change to become happier, healthier and gain control over obstacles that are weighing them down.
(757) 801-3428 View (757) 801-3428
Photo of The Peaceful Place, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saluda, VA
The Peaceful Place
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vienna, VA 22182
The Peaceful Place hosts a diverse group of therapists who are passionate about helping clients heal and tap into their power! Our therapists host a wide range of specialties such as Sex Therapy, Trauma Therapy, Substance Dependence/Abuse, and personality disorders! Our expert clinicians treat several mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, narcissistic personality disorder, antisocial personality disorder, addictions, intimacy issues, sexual issues/dysfunctions. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with one of our amazing clinicians!
The Peaceful Place hosts a diverse group of therapists who are passionate about helping clients heal and tap into their power! Our therapists host a wide range of specialties such as Sex Therapy, Trauma Therapy, Substance Dependence/Abuse, and personality disorders! Our expert clinicians treat several mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, narcissistic personality disorder, antisocial personality disorder, addictions, intimacy issues, sexual issues/dysfunctions. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with one of our amazing clinicians!
(571) 200-1836 View (571) 200-1836
Photo of Anjinai Hendriex, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saluda, VA
Anjinai Hendriex
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, , LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chesapeake, VA 23320
I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, anger management, motivation, self esteem, trauma, bipolar, & depression, all being areas of my speciality.
I am licensed in Virginia with 3 years of professional work experience in therapy. I have been working in the field for 10+ years. I received a Bachelors of Science in Human Services with a Minor in Women Studies from Old Dominion University and a Master of Arts in Professional Counseling and Master of Arts Marriage and Family Therapy from Liberty University.
I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, anger management, motivation, self esteem, trauma, bipolar, & depression, all being areas of my speciality.
I am licensed in Virginia with 3 years of professional work experience in therapy. I have been working in the field for 10+ years. I received a Bachelors of Science in Human Services with a Minor in Women Studies from Old Dominion University and a Master of Arts in Professional Counseling and Master of Arts Marriage and Family Therapy from Liberty University.
(757) 909-6156 View (757) 909-6156
Photo of Erin Janovec, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saluda, VA
Erin Janovec
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23220
Hello! My name is Erin Janovec. I am a licensed professional counselor in Virginia. My approach to therapy is a humanistic and integrated approach that considers each individual's unique needs. I am certified in EMDR and trained in TF-CBT. I have worked with clients ranging from young to old with varying diagnoses. I have experience working with individuals with substance use disorders, depression, anxiety, bipolar, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, and more.
Hello! My name is Erin Janovec. I am a licensed professional counselor in Virginia. My approach to therapy is a humanistic and integrated approach that considers each individual's unique needs. I am certified in EMDR and trained in TF-CBT. I have worked with clients ranging from young to old with varying diagnoses. I have experience working with individuals with substance use disorders, depression, anxiety, bipolar, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, and more.
(804) 373-2360 View (804) 373-2360
Providence Counseling
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Williamsburg, VA 23185
I have found success in working with angry and defiant teenagers, substance abuse, marital dischord and rebuilding family relationships. .I've also enjoyed helping those who struggle with depression, anxiety and bipolar disorders. I have received specific training in the integration of Christianity and psychology for individuals that desire to utilize their faith for restoration and healing. I believe that my background in science, business and motorsports allows me to connect to a wide variety of individuals.
I have found success in working with angry and defiant teenagers, substance abuse, marital dischord and rebuilding family relationships. .I've also enjoyed helping those who struggle with depression, anxiety and bipolar disorders. I have received specific training in the integration of Christianity and psychology for individuals that desire to utilize their faith for restoration and healing. I believe that my background in science, business and motorsports allows me to connect to a wide variety of individuals.
(757) 300-0859 View (757) 300-0859
Photo of Kelly Morley, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saluda, VA
Kelly Morley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Virginia Beach, VA 23452
I conduct individual counseling for people of all ages and can help with a variety of concerns including (but definitely not limited to) depression, bipolar disorder, and anxiety.
The need for both open hearts and open minds in the field of mental health is critically urgent and I aspire to have each! My goal is to assist people who may be unsure of what they are experiencing or feel nervous about pursuing help. I believe that together we can reach your personal goals. My true calling is to help people heal while becoming advocates for themselves, their families, and society as a whole.
I conduct individual counseling for people of all ages and can help with a variety of concerns including (but definitely not limited to) depression, bipolar disorder, and anxiety.
The need for both open hearts and open minds in the field of mental health is critically urgent and I aspire to have each! My goal is to assist people who may be unsure of what they are experiencing or feel nervous about pursuing help. I believe that together we can reach your personal goals. My true calling is to help people heal while becoming advocates for themselves, their families, and society as a whole.
(757) 996-4360 View (757) 996-4360
Photo of Chermora Johnson, Counselor in Saluda, VA
Chermora Johnson
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 22201  (Online Only)
People with trauma, depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia were some of the people I helped at work.
I will like to take this opportunity to introduce myself as a licensed mental health therapist. I want to tell you a little about myself and my fieldwork experiences. I worked in this field for several years, along with various training, to assist clients in different areas. In the last several years, I worked in a mental health hospital with adolescents, substance abuse, and crisis intervention in various settings.
People with trauma, depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia were some of the people I helped at work.
I will like to take this opportunity to introduce myself as a licensed mental health therapist. I want to tell you a little about myself and my fieldwork experiences. I worked in this field for several years, along with various training, to assist clients in different areas. In the last several years, I worked in a mental health hospital with adolescents, substance abuse, and crisis intervention in various settings.
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Photo of Deborah E Elder, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saluda, VA
Deborah E Elder
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Williamsburg, VA 23185
I also treat depression, anxiety, OCD, Bipolar Disorder, Trauma, ADHD, Behavior management.
TELEHEALTH AVAILABLE USING A HIPPAA COMPLIANT PLATFORM. Telehealth has been proven effective in treating more mental health issues. At this time, most insurances now cover the service. Are you or your family struggling in your daily lives? Is it depression, anxiety, family dynamics, life changes? Whatever the issue I am here to help you overcome what stands in your way to a peaceful and fulfilling life. I work with teenagers, adults and older adults. I enjoy working with families/parents to provide a safe environment to address difficult dynamics.
I also treat depression, anxiety, OCD, Bipolar Disorder, Trauma, ADHD, Behavior management.
TELEHEALTH AVAILABLE USING A HIPPAA COMPLIANT PLATFORM. Telehealth has been proven effective in treating more mental health issues. At this time, most insurances now cover the service. Are you or your family struggling in your daily lives? Is it depression, anxiety, family dynamics, life changes? Whatever the issue I am here to help you overcome what stands in your way to a peaceful and fulfilling life. I work with teenagers, adults and older adults. I enjoy working with families/parents to provide a safe environment to address difficult dynamics.
(757) 364-0963 View (757) 364-0963
Photo of RVA Personal Wellness, Telehealth only, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saluda, VA
RVA Personal Wellness, Telehealth only
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23230  (Online Only)
Layne also has experience with psychotic disorders, Bipolar disorders, and other serious mental illnesses and offers symptom mapping and management.
I am currently accepted new clients and I accept all Cigna, Optum (United Healthcare), Anthem and Aetna plans. Layne is certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), which has shown to effectively treat trauma. Layne also uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy to treat depression, anxiety and a variety of personality disorders. Layne has experience with psychotic disorders, Bipolar disorders, and other serious mental illnesses and offers symptom mapping and management.
Layne also has experience with psychotic disorders, Bipolar disorders, and other serious mental illnesses and offers symptom mapping and management.
I am currently accepted new clients and I accept all Cigna, Optum (United Healthcare), Anthem and Aetna plans. Layne is certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), which has shown to effectively treat trauma. Layne also uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy to treat depression, anxiety and a variety of personality disorders. Layne has experience with psychotic disorders, Bipolar disorders, and other serious mental illnesses and offers symptom mapping and management.
(804) 581-1794 View (804) 581-1794
Photo of Rodolfo Gonzalez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saluda, VA
Rodolfo Gonzalez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030
I am licensed clinical social worker in Virginia with 20+ years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, bipolar disorder, & depression. I specialize in delivering DBT and CBT. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.
I am licensed clinical social worker in Virginia with 20+ years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, bipolar disorder, & depression. I specialize in delivering DBT and CBT. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.
(571) 454-8695 View (571) 454-8695
Photo of Deborah Walker, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saluda, VA
Deborah Walker
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Mechanicsville, VA 23116
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with a passion to work with adults and teenagers. With empathy and understanding, I can help my clients through life's challenges. I believe in the individual having the capacity for change within themselves and we can uncover that together. Mental Health diagnosis I have worked with include depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, LGBTQ, trauma treatment, personality disorders and schizophrenia. Treatment approaches include DBT, CBT, person centered and mindfulness.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with a passion to work with adults and teenagers. With empathy and understanding, I can help my clients through life's challenges. I believe in the individual having the capacity for change within themselves and we can uncover that together. Mental Health diagnosis I have worked with include depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, LGBTQ, trauma treatment, personality disorders and schizophrenia. Treatment approaches include DBT, CBT, person centered and mindfulness.
(804) 600-4320 View (804) 600-4320
Photo of Eeremene Piaro, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saluda, VA
Eeremene Piaro
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22304
Hello! I'm a licensed professional therapist with four years of experience specializing in outpatient counseling. My practice encompasses working with children, adolescents, and adults dealing with various challenges, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, grief, trauma, autism spectrum disorder, LGBTQ+ issues, life stage transition difficulties, and other mental health disorders. Taking the initiative to pursue a more fulfilling and happier life requires courage, and I commend you for taking that first step towards change. I'm here to provide you with the support and empowerment you need on your journey.
Hello! I'm a licensed professional therapist with four years of experience specializing in outpatient counseling. My practice encompasses working with children, adolescents, and adults dealing with various challenges, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, grief, trauma, autism spectrum disorder, LGBTQ+ issues, life stage transition difficulties, and other mental health disorders. Taking the initiative to pursue a more fulfilling and happier life requires courage, and I commend you for taking that first step towards change. I'm here to provide you with the support and empowerment you need on your journey.
(703) 952-7234 View (703) 952-7234
Photo of Lucy Franke, Pre-Licensed Professional in Saluda, VA
Lucy Franke
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
Chesapeake, VA 23321  (Online Only)
Hi, I am Lucy (she/her), and I am so happy you are here! I am a supervisee in social work. I have extensive experience in the mental health field, including inpatient settings, in-home settings, and clinical settings. I work with pre-teens through adulthood. I approach therapy through a trauma-informed lens, allowing my client to feel empowered after each session. I have the training and experience working with couples, both mongo-mouse and non-monogamous. I find great joy in helping those struggling with their ADHD, depression, and bipolar, among other important mental health concerns.
Hi, I am Lucy (she/her), and I am so happy you are here! I am a supervisee in social work. I have extensive experience in the mental health field, including inpatient settings, in-home settings, and clinical settings. I work with pre-teens through adulthood. I approach therapy through a trauma-informed lens, allowing my client to feel empowered after each session. I have the training and experience working with couples, both mongo-mouse and non-monogamous. I find great joy in helping those struggling with their ADHD, depression, and bipolar, among other important mental health concerns.
(757) 840-3591 View (757) 840-3591
Photo of Amelia Bigesby—Kids & Adults. Build coping skills., Counselor in Saluda, VA
Amelia Bigesby—Kids & Adults. Build coping skills.
Counselor, MS, LGPC
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22314  (Online Only)
In a warm and supportive atmosphere, you will get the help that you need to recover from anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and other mental health challenges.
Do you or your child struggle with anxiety, depression, or ADHD? Do you have difficulty building healthy relationships or experience intrusive thoughts? In therapy, you can build coping skills and get practical help for anxiety, self-esteem, depression, relationships, and more. Difficult experiences in your past or mental health struggles in the present don't have to dictate your future. We will work to equip you with the internal resources that you need to thrive. Reach out to me today to learn more about therapy. You can develop new thinking patterns and behaviors that promote positive coping. I am looking forward to helping!
In a warm and supportive atmosphere, you will get the help that you need to recover from anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and other mental health challenges.
Do you or your child struggle with anxiety, depression, or ADHD? Do you have difficulty building healthy relationships or experience intrusive thoughts? In therapy, you can build coping skills and get practical help for anxiety, self-esteem, depression, relationships, and more. Difficult experiences in your past or mental health struggles in the present don't have to dictate your future. We will work to equip you with the internal resources that you need to thrive. Reach out to me today to learn more about therapy. You can develop new thinking patterns and behaviors that promote positive coping. I am looking forward to helping!
(202) 978-6206 View (202) 978-6206
Photo of Jennifer Semaan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saluda, VA
Jennifer Semaan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, EdS
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030
I specialize in treating Anxiety and Mood Disorders (Depression and Bipolar), as well as providing treatment to survivors of traumatic experiences.
Our mental health is so vital, but we often put it on the back burner to take care of "more important things". I am so glad you're here, which tells me that you are starting to consider prioritizing your mental health and emotional wellbeing. Sometimes, we try to "keep it all together" in order to focus on other things in our life, such as work, school, family, and relationships, without really realizing that our symptoms bleed into every single area of our life. When that happens, it can feel like our sadness, anxiety, anger, flashbacks, or whatever else, is affecting our ability to function normally and live a fulfilling life.
I specialize in treating Anxiety and Mood Disorders (Depression and Bipolar), as well as providing treatment to survivors of traumatic experiences.
Our mental health is so vital, but we often put it on the back burner to take care of "more important things". I am so glad you're here, which tells me that you are starting to consider prioritizing your mental health and emotional wellbeing. Sometimes, we try to "keep it all together" in order to focus on other things in our life, such as work, school, family, and relationships, without really realizing that our symptoms bleed into every single area of our life. When that happens, it can feel like our sadness, anxiety, anger, flashbacks, or whatever else, is affecting our ability to function normally and live a fulfilling life.
(703) 783-2617 View (703) 783-2617
Photo of Debbie P Huntsinger, Pre-Licensed Professional in Saluda, VA
Debbie P Huntsinger
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MEd
Verified Verified
Ashland, VA 23005
I have experience in private, community mental health, and in-home counseling helping adults with a variety of mental health issues and illnesses that include managing stress and anxiety, trauma, depression, schizophrenia, and bipolar 1 and 2.
Hello and welcome. I am a Resident in Counseling at Your Path Counseling Center, Ashland, Virginia. I have over 30 years of various counseling experiences with youth and adults. I recognize how important and valuable counseling is- today- perhaps more than ever- with the demands and stress and pressure of every day, it's not easy to sort things out, and counseling can help. Counseling is the place where you go to talk, learn new strategies, skills, gain insight and understanding, and learn to love, accept, and value who you are so that you can live and find your best life.
I have experience in private, community mental health, and in-home counseling helping adults with a variety of mental health issues and illnesses that include managing stress and anxiety, trauma, depression, schizophrenia, and bipolar 1 and 2.
Hello and welcome. I am a Resident in Counseling at Your Path Counseling Center, Ashland, Virginia. I have over 30 years of various counseling experiences with youth and adults. I recognize how important and valuable counseling is- today- perhaps more than ever- with the demands and stress and pressure of every day, it's not easy to sort things out, and counseling can help. Counseling is the place where you go to talk, learn new strategies, skills, gain insight and understanding, and learn to love, accept, and value who you are so that you can live and find your best life.
(804) 656-5861 View (804) 656-5861
Photo of Debbie Anderson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saluda, VA
Debbie Anderson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23225
Hi! My name is Debbie and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been practicing in the field for over 13 years. I specialize primarily in the treatment of trauma, depression, and anxiety, but have also helped individuals diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder, Schizoaffective Disorder, and Schizophrenia. I am trained in CBT, DBT, Cognitive Processing Therapy, and EMDR, and have spent the majority of my adult life developing and authenticating my skills to help those in need. I am very passionate about the work I do, and believe that all have the power within them to heal and recover, whatever that might look like.
Hi! My name is Debbie and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been practicing in the field for over 13 years. I specialize primarily in the treatment of trauma, depression, and anxiety, but have also helped individuals diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder, Schizoaffective Disorder, and Schizophrenia. I am trained in CBT, DBT, Cognitive Processing Therapy, and EMDR, and have spent the majority of my adult life developing and authenticating my skills to help those in need. I am very passionate about the work I do, and believe that all have the power within them to heal and recover, whatever that might look like.
(804) 593-0535 View (804) 593-0535
Bipolar Disorder Therapists

What is the most successful approach to treating bipolar disorder?

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

What happens in therapy for bipolar disorder?

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

What kinds of problems does therapy help with?

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

What is the goal of therapy for bipolar disorder?

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