Photo of Clinical and Developmental Services, Psychologist in Carver County, MN
Clinical and Developmental Services
Psychologist, PhD, MA, LP
Verified Verified
Waconia, MN 55387
Regardless of your concern, CDS has experienced professionals to meet the needs of children, adolescents, & adults. Within CDS multi-disciplinary clinics, providers offer assessment & therapy for concerns in mental health, development, learning, relationships, and language. Healthcare is rapidly changing and CDS focuses on high-quality services & collaboration between providers. CDS clinicians are from different backgrounds - including mental health services (testing & therapy), behavioral/developmental interventions, & forensic services. For a personal and positive experience, please connect with our community of professionals.
Regardless of your concern, CDS has experienced professionals to meet the needs of children, adolescents, & adults. Within CDS multi-disciplinary clinics, providers offer assessment & therapy for concerns in mental health, development, learning, relationships, and language. Healthcare is rapidly changing and CDS focuses on high-quality services & collaboration between providers. CDS clinicians are from different backgrounds - including mental health services (testing & therapy), behavioral/developmental interventions, & forensic services. For a personal and positive experience, please connect with our community of professionals.
(952) 479-5369 View (952) 479-5369
Photo of Kelly Miklas, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Carver County, MN
Kelly Miklas
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Waconia, MN 55387  (Online Only)
Available next week! I hope to help you feel more like yourself and understand yourself on a deeper level. I am here to witness your pain, hear your stories, and celebrate your successes with you. My ideal client is open to personal growth and willing to engage in the process, at their own pace. I would love to help you work through your mental, emotional, and physical symptoms, fears, negative self-talk, unhelpful coping mechanisms, painful past memories, relationship concerns, attachment wounds, and so much more. By seeking out help and browsing these profiles, you are taking a huge first step and I'm already proud of you.
Available next week! I hope to help you feel more like yourself and understand yourself on a deeper level. I am here to witness your pain, hear your stories, and celebrate your successes with you. My ideal client is open to personal growth and willing to engage in the process, at their own pace. I would love to help you work through your mental, emotional, and physical symptoms, fears, negative self-talk, unhelpful coping mechanisms, painful past memories, relationship concerns, attachment wounds, and so much more. By seeking out help and browsing these profiles, you are taking a huge first step and I'm already proud of you.
(952) 900-6845 View (952) 900-6845
Photo of Equilibrium Brain Body Balance, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Carver County, MN
Equilibrium Brain Body Balance
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LICSW
Verified Verified
Chanhassen, MN 55317
Equilibrium Brain Body Balance is all about helping you find balance in your life. Meeting you where you are in your mental health journey. We offer approaches that engage you in traditional therapies or interactive therapies; talk, art therapies, with physical activities and interactive spaces. Available Services; psychiatry, psychotherapy, diagnosis. Equilibrium offers zen zones, meditation areas, physical engagement spaces. Our mission is to provide high-quality mental health services that will help you see a reduction in your mental health symptoms, while aiding to create balance in your life. www.eq-b3.com
Equilibrium Brain Body Balance is all about helping you find balance in your life. Meeting you where you are in your mental health journey. We offer approaches that engage you in traditional therapies or interactive therapies; talk, art therapies, with physical activities and interactive spaces. Available Services; psychiatry, psychotherapy, diagnosis. Equilibrium offers zen zones, meditation areas, physical engagement spaces. Our mission is to provide high-quality mental health services that will help you see a reduction in your mental health symptoms, while aiding to create balance in your life. www.eq-b3.com
(952) 592-6550 View (952) 592-6550
Photo of Keri Mills, Licensed Professional Counselor in Carver County, MN
Keri Mills
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Watertown, MN 55388  (Online Only)
Keri is a mental health practitioner who graduated from Crown College with a masters in counseling after receiving her Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Crown College. She works with both children and adults with the approach being very client centered. She strives to help all individuals find purpose, hope, and success. Her passion is to help individuals work towards individual wellness as well as within relationships. Her positive perspective empowers clients to establish individualized goals. Keri incorporates faith into therapy (when requested).
Keri is a mental health practitioner who graduated from Crown College with a masters in counseling after receiving her Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Crown College. She works with both children and adults with the approach being very client centered. She strives to help all individuals find purpose, hope, and success. Her passion is to help individuals work towards individual wellness as well as within relationships. Her positive perspective empowers clients to establish individualized goals. Keri incorporates faith into therapy (when requested).
(952) 955-1963 View (952) 955-1963
Photo of Clinical & Developmental Services (CDS) Chanhassen, Psychologist in Carver County, MN
Clinical & Developmental Services (CDS) Chanhassen
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Chanhassen, MN 55317
Trusted and helpful: Regardless of your concern, CDS has experienced professionals to meet the needs of your child, adolescent, or adult. Within CDS multi-disciplinary clinics, providers offer assessment & therapy for concerns in mental health, development, learning, relationships, and language. Healthcare is rapidly changing and CDS focuses on high-quality services & collaboration. CDS clinicians are from different backgrounds - including mental health services (testing & therapy), behavioral/developmental interventions, & forensic services. For a personal and positive experience, connect with our community of providers.
Trusted and helpful: Regardless of your concern, CDS has experienced professionals to meet the needs of your child, adolescent, or adult. Within CDS multi-disciplinary clinics, providers offer assessment & therapy for concerns in mental health, development, learning, relationships, and language. Healthcare is rapidly changing and CDS focuses on high-quality services & collaboration. CDS clinicians are from different backgrounds - including mental health services (testing & therapy), behavioral/developmental interventions, & forensic services. For a personal and positive experience, connect with our community of providers.
(952) 209-8297 View (952) 209-8297
Photo of Dr. Scott Hanneman Phd Lp, Psychologist in Carver County, MN
Dr. Scott Hanneman Phd Lp
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Waconia, MN 55387  (Online Only)
Life can be unpredictable with many ups-and-downs. Seeking therapy to help navigate life requires courage. If you are considering therapy, you are demonstrating that courage and are likely on your way to improving your life. I take pride in utilizing science-based approaches and I also cherish the opportunity to mindfully and compassionately collaborate with you. Together we will identify what may be keeping you stuck and we will forge a path to increasing your quality of life. Lastly, I believe in the mind-body connection and enjoy introducing mindfulness-based skills to enhance that connection.
Life can be unpredictable with many ups-and-downs. Seeking therapy to help navigate life requires courage. If you are considering therapy, you are demonstrating that courage and are likely on your way to improving your life. I take pride in utilizing science-based approaches and I also cherish the opportunity to mindfully and compassionately collaborate with you. Together we will identify what may be keeping you stuck and we will forge a path to increasing your quality of life. Lastly, I believe in the mind-body connection and enjoy introducing mindfulness-based skills to enhance that connection.
(952) 333-4053 x1 View (952) 333-4053 x1
Photo of Andy Huys, Counselor in Carver County, MN
Andy Huys
Counselor, MA, LPCC, LADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chanhassen, MN 55317
Helping clients on the path of self-exploration and personal growth takes time and understanding. Building a therapeutic alliance shapes the course for therapy and reveals a client's ultimate goals. I use various clinical approaches during therapy, depending on the needs and goals of each client on their journey toward wellness. I enjoy combining a client-centered approach with solution-focused strategies when partnering with clients. This foundation provides direction for therapeutic goals and allows creative collaboration between us to achieve them.
Helping clients on the path of self-exploration and personal growth takes time and understanding. Building a therapeutic alliance shapes the course for therapy and reveals a client's ultimate goals. I use various clinical approaches during therapy, depending on the needs and goals of each client on their journey toward wellness. I enjoy combining a client-centered approach with solution-focused strategies when partnering with clients. This foundation provides direction for therapeutic goals and allows creative collaboration between us to achieve them.
(763) 373-9099 View (763) 373-9099
Photo of Alexis Taylor, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Carver County, MN
Alexis Taylor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LGSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waconia, MN 55387  (Online Only)
During times of difficulty, sometimes we need someone to talk to that is open-minded and non-judgmental. Someone who can be a supportive person that also helps build insight and supports us in reaching our goals. My goal is to build a relationship where clients feel seen, heard, and supported. This approach includes creating a partnership between therapist and client, where the client determines the focus of therapy and works collaboratively to identify attainable goals. During our work together, we can explore your reasons for seeking therapy and build a relationship where you feel supported.
During times of difficulty, sometimes we need someone to talk to that is open-minded and non-judgmental. Someone who can be a supportive person that also helps build insight and supports us in reaching our goals. My goal is to build a relationship where clients feel seen, heard, and supported. This approach includes creating a partnership between therapist and client, where the client determines the focus of therapy and works collaboratively to identify attainable goals. During our work together, we can explore your reasons for seeking therapy and build a relationship where you feel supported.
(952) 295-3547 View (952) 295-3547
Photo of Marbigail Therapy Services LLC. (English&Spanish), Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Carver County, MN
Marbigail Therapy Services LLC. (English&Spanish)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Chaska, MN 55318
Los Servicios estan disponibles en Espanol. El primer paso, ya lo tomo. Llamenos. It is not an easy thing to seek help, and whether you decide to call me or someone else, there is no wrong step in that. I believe the therapeutic relationship is key in treatment. I've had my share of struggles, and believe that life and professional experience has prepared me to provide you with creative and effective therapy. My approach is collaborative and empathic, I encourage trust and therapeutic relationship. I'd like to help you figure this out, achieve your goals, reach a healthier life, emotional stability, and a calm state of mind.
Los Servicios estan disponibles en Espanol. El primer paso, ya lo tomo. Llamenos. It is not an easy thing to seek help, and whether you decide to call me or someone else, there is no wrong step in that. I believe the therapeutic relationship is key in treatment. I've had my share of struggles, and believe that life and professional experience has prepared me to provide you with creative and effective therapy. My approach is collaborative and empathic, I encourage trust and therapeutic relationship. I'd like to help you figure this out, achieve your goals, reach a healthier life, emotional stability, and a calm state of mind.
(612) 260-1813 View (612) 260-1813
Photo of Choices Psychotherapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Carver County, MN
Choices Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Chanhassen, MN 55317
Choices Psychotherapy offers psychotherapy and psychiatry services for adults and children located throughout the Twin Cities. We're located in St. Louis Park and Chanhassen. Established in 1993 by Susan Davis, LICSW, Choices Psychotherapy has grown into a thriving mental health practice offering a diverse clinical team of Masters & Doctorate level therapists along with Psychiatrists who provide comprehensive therapeutic services for a multitude of concerns to clients from age 5 to senior adults. Two of our psychiatrists specializes in working with children & adolescents while the other three work with adults from age 18.
Choices Psychotherapy offers psychotherapy and psychiatry services for adults and children located throughout the Twin Cities. We're located in St. Louis Park and Chanhassen. Established in 1993 by Susan Davis, LICSW, Choices Psychotherapy has grown into a thriving mental health practice offering a diverse clinical team of Masters & Doctorate level therapists along with Psychiatrists who provide comprehensive therapeutic services for a multitude of concerns to clients from age 5 to senior adults. Two of our psychiatrists specializes in working with children & adolescents while the other three work with adults from age 18.
(952) 314-5535 View (952) 314-5535
Photo of Bret P Schneider, Psychologist in Carver County, MN
Bret P Schneider
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Waconia, MN 55387
Are you or someone you care about going through a difficult time? Is your child/adolescent struggling at home or school with emotions, difficult behavior, or attention concerns? Whether you are looking for answers or seeking personal growth, I can help. I am a clinical psychologist who specializes in assessment and therapy with children, adolescents, and adults. My professional approach is one that encourages one's strengths, internal traits, and individual differences that contribute to personal and professional growth and an improved quality of life and understanding.
Are you or someone you care about going through a difficult time? Is your child/adolescent struggling at home or school with emotions, difficult behavior, or attention concerns? Whether you are looking for answers or seeking personal growth, I can help. I am a clinical psychologist who specializes in assessment and therapy with children, adolescents, and adults. My professional approach is one that encourages one's strengths, internal traits, and individual differences that contribute to personal and professional growth and an improved quality of life and understanding.
(952) 955-9414 x7 View (952) 955-9414 x7
Photo of Corrie Merten, Marriage & Family Therapist in Carver County, MN
Corrie Merten
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Mayer, MN 55360
Do you feel overwhelmed and stressed out? Are you having trouble in your relationships, with your partner or kids? Is depression and/or anxiety taking the joy out of life? If the answer is "YES!" to any of these questions then maybe its time to make a change in your life. I can help support you in taking steps to start enjoying your life. My counseling style is grounded in compassion and empathy. I strive to create a comfortable, safe space for you to feel respected and understood. You are capable of creating the life you want to live!
Do you feel overwhelmed and stressed out? Are you having trouble in your relationships, with your partner or kids? Is depression and/or anxiety taking the joy out of life? If the answer is "YES!" to any of these questions then maybe its time to make a change in your life. I can help support you in taking steps to start enjoying your life. My counseling style is grounded in compassion and empathy. I strive to create a comfortable, safe space for you to feel respected and understood. You are capable of creating the life you want to live!
(320) 616-0575 View (320) 616-0575
Photo of Eden Therapy Center - Nancy Lowe, Counselor in Carver County, MN
Eden Therapy Center - Nancy Lowe
Counselor, LPCC, LADC, EMDR, COD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chaska, MN 55318
Waitlist for new clients
Eden Therapy Center, a place for new beginnings, is a holistically oriented mental health clinic where the Integrative Behavioral Health Model is the guideline for client care. This model respectfully incorporates the biochemistry of the body, the psychology of the mind, and the effervescence of the spirit. Employed professionals in the Mental Health and complementary wellness fields such as Massage Therapy & Ayurvedic medicine work together using evidence-based practices and consultation among each other that helps clients move toward their best selves and away from decades of pain whether it shows up as depression, anxiety, PTSD.
Eden Therapy Center, a place for new beginnings, is a holistically oriented mental health clinic where the Integrative Behavioral Health Model is the guideline for client care. This model respectfully incorporates the biochemistry of the body, the psychology of the mind, and the effervescence of the spirit. Employed professionals in the Mental Health and complementary wellness fields such as Massage Therapy & Ayurvedic medicine work together using evidence-based practices and consultation among each other that helps clients move toward their best selves and away from decades of pain whether it shows up as depression, anxiety, PTSD.
(952) 529-4999 View (952) 529-4999
Photo of Jason D'Amour, Counselor in Carver County, MN
Jason D'Amour
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waconia, MN 55387
My counseling philosophy seeks to find the root of issues, rather than only focusing on managing surface-level symptoms. I incorporate positive psychology, Attachment theory, Family Systems, and Jungian analysis- including a focus on Personality Types, as identified by the Myers-Briggs (MBTI). I believe change occurs in therapy when the client is able to identify the things that are holding them back or distracting them from finding fulfillment in developing their true self. My work as a therapist is to partner with you on your journey toward wholeness as a safe, consistent, trustworthy listener and helper.
My counseling philosophy seeks to find the root of issues, rather than only focusing on managing surface-level symptoms. I incorporate positive psychology, Attachment theory, Family Systems, and Jungian analysis- including a focus on Personality Types, as identified by the Myers-Briggs (MBTI). I believe change occurs in therapy when the client is able to identify the things that are holding them back or distracting them from finding fulfillment in developing their true self. My work as a therapist is to partner with you on your journey toward wholeness as a safe, consistent, trustworthy listener and helper.
(320) 403-9319 View (320) 403-9319
Photo of NorthStar Regional in Carver County, MN
NorthStar Regional
Verified Verified
Chanhassen, MN 55317
At NorthStar Regional's new location in Shakopee, we offer comprehensive mental health services tailored to your needs. Whether you're facing mental health challenges, family issues, or other life difficulties, our compassionate team is here to support you on your journey towards hope and healing. From individual counseling to family therapy, we provide a range of services for clients of all ages. To schedule an appointment, call (952) 974-3999.
At NorthStar Regional's new location in Shakopee, we offer comprehensive mental health services tailored to your needs. Whether you're facing mental health challenges, family issues, or other life difficulties, our compassionate team is here to support you on your journey towards hope and healing. From individual counseling to family therapy, we provide a range of services for clients of all ages. To schedule an appointment, call (952) 974-3999.
(952) 230-0032 View (952) 230-0032
Photo of Yasha Horstmann, Licensed Professional Counselor in Carver County, MN
Yasha Horstmann
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCC, LADC
Verified Verified
Chaska, MN 55318  (Online Only)
In my practice, I offer individual therapy for those navigating addiction and mental health challenges. I'm dedicated to fostering a space where you feel a sense of belonging, free from judgment. Here, you can bravely confront your experiences, find clarity, and cultivate resilience. Whether it's trauma, anxiety, depression, or substance abuse, know that I'm here to walk alongside you, offering unwavering support as you navigate through fear toward healing and growth.
In my practice, I offer individual therapy for those navigating addiction and mental health challenges. I'm dedicated to fostering a space where you feel a sense of belonging, free from judgment. Here, you can bravely confront your experiences, find clarity, and cultivate resilience. Whether it's trauma, anxiety, depression, or substance abuse, know that I'm here to walk alongside you, offering unwavering support as you navigate through fear toward healing and growth.
(651) 877-6926 View (651) 877-6926
Photo of Abby Hough, Counselor in Carver County, MN
Abby Hough
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Chanhassen, MN 55317
Not accepting new clients
Life is hard, but we don't have to go through it alone. Whatever struggles you're currently experiencing, I'm here to help. I value the uniqueness of each person and their experience, and I understand that there isn't a "one size fits all" approach to therapy. You and I will partner to develop a trusting relationship that allows for growth, reflection, and change. I'll meet you where you're at, and give you a safe space to start exploring and creating a life you find worth living.
Life is hard, but we don't have to go through it alone. Whatever struggles you're currently experiencing, I'm here to help. I value the uniqueness of each person and their experience, and I understand that there isn't a "one size fits all" approach to therapy. You and I will partner to develop a trusting relationship that allows for growth, reflection, and change. I'll meet you where you're at, and give you a safe space to start exploring and creating a life you find worth living.
(952) 900-4831 View (952) 900-4831

Online Therapists

Photo of Emily Selbitschka, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Carver County, MN
Emily Selbitschka
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LGSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Little Canada, MN 55117  (Online Only)
I also enjoy supporting individuals who experience symptoms of depression, anxiety, ASD, ADHD, Borderline Personality Disorder, Bipolar disorder and more.
I strive to create a space where individuals feel comfortable and supported. I do this by utilizing a non-judgmental approach, and by allowing individuals to feel heard and validated. I am kind, caring, compassionate, and will work hard to build a strong therapeutic alliance with the individuals that I serve. I am passionate about helping others through their traumatic experiences, and have worked with many different modalities of therapy that include but aren't limited to; CBT, DBT, and Trauma Focused-CBT. I approach all clients and people that I serve with a person-centered, trauma informed, and strengths-based perspective.
I also enjoy supporting individuals who experience symptoms of depression, anxiety, ASD, ADHD, Borderline Personality Disorder, Bipolar disorder and more.
I strive to create a space where individuals feel comfortable and supported. I do this by utilizing a non-judgmental approach, and by allowing individuals to feel heard and validated. I am kind, caring, compassionate, and will work hard to build a strong therapeutic alliance with the individuals that I serve. I am passionate about helping others through their traumatic experiences, and have worked with many different modalities of therapy that include but aren't limited to; CBT, DBT, and Trauma Focused-CBT. I approach all clients and people that I serve with a person-centered, trauma informed, and strengths-based perspective.
(651) 565-6583 View (651) 565-6583
Photo of LaTonya A. Fakir, Pre-Licensed Professional in Carver County, MN
LaTonya A. Fakir
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MTh, BA
Verified Verified
Eden Prairie, MN 55344
Happiness is when we take care of ourselves body, mind, and spirit! Greetings to you! My name is LaTonya A. Fakir. I enjoy working with individuals, couples, families, adolescents and foster care system. I have over 8000 Professional hours working with individuals, couples and families dealing PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, Communication Disorders, RAD, OCD, ADHS, Autism Spectrum, and Bipolar Disorders just to name a few. I use a wholistic approach to therapy by learning from my clients, sharing my experiences, using appropriate interventions and building treatments that are best and will bring change for each of my clients.
Happiness is when we take care of ourselves body, mind, and spirit! Greetings to you! My name is LaTonya A. Fakir. I enjoy working with individuals, couples, families, adolescents and foster care system. I have over 8000 Professional hours working with individuals, couples and families dealing PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, Communication Disorders, RAD, OCD, ADHS, Autism Spectrum, and Bipolar Disorders just to name a few. I use a wholistic approach to therapy by learning from my clients, sharing my experiences, using appropriate interventions and building treatments that are best and will bring change for each of my clients.
(763) 878-7248 View (763) 878-7248
Photo of Lacie Glasser, Counselor in Carver County, MN
Lacie Glasser
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Bloomington, MN 55431
I have worked with individuals with a variety of mental health diagnoses, including but not limited to Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Social Anxiety Disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, Post-traumatic Stress Disorder, ADHD, Oppositional Defiance Disorder, Conduct Disorder, and adjustment disorder.
Hello! My name is Lacie Glasser, LPCC. I am passionate about helping individuals decrease mental health symptoms holistically. We need to improve all areas of our lives to have better overall functioning. I utilize and am trained in, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Acceptance & Commitment Therapy. I also have training in Nutritional and Integrative Medicine for Mental Health and am passionate about implementing these techniques to help my clients. I enjoy working with older adolescents, ages 15-18, or adults of any age.
I have worked with individuals with a variety of mental health diagnoses, including but not limited to Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Social Anxiety Disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, Post-traumatic Stress Disorder, ADHD, Oppositional Defiance Disorder, Conduct Disorder, and adjustment disorder.
Hello! My name is Lacie Glasser, LPCC. I am passionate about helping individuals decrease mental health symptoms holistically. We need to improve all areas of our lives to have better overall functioning. I utilize and am trained in, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Acceptance & Commitment Therapy. I also have training in Nutritional and Integrative Medicine for Mental Health and am passionate about implementing these techniques to help my clients. I enjoy working with older adolescents, ages 15-18, or adults of any age.
(952) 260-8008 View (952) 260-8008

See more therapy options for Carver County

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.