Therapists in Illinois
Brian Jula
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Frankfort, IL 60423
In private practice I have worked with and treated individuals with a variety of struggles including depression, anxiety, bipolar, obsessive-compulsive, sexual disorders and more.
“Most people seek therapy because something isn’t working. Sometimes people do not feel equipped to handle life’s problems – work stress, family stress, health issues, etc. Many individuals feel stuck trying to solve problems the same way when those solutions are no longer helpful. This pain can leave someone suffering and feeling helpless.” I want to help you gain perspective and new knowledge and skills for change. Often this involves being more aware and present in the moment. Many people do not recognize the power they have to create positive change in their lives. I will help empower you to find your strengths and make change.
In private practice I have worked with and treated individuals with a variety of struggles including depression, anxiety, bipolar, obsessive-compulsive, sexual disorders and more.
“Most people seek therapy because something isn’t working. Sometimes people do not feel equipped to handle life’s problems – work stress, family stress, health issues, etc. Many individuals feel stuck trying to solve problems the same way when those solutions are no longer helpful. This pain can leave someone suffering and feeling helpless.” I want to help you gain perspective and new knowledge and skills for change. Often this involves being more aware and present in the moment. Many people do not recognize the power they have to create positive change in their lives. I will help empower you to find your strengths and make change.
Bill Singerman
Counselor, MA, MEd, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640
Additionally, I have much experience working with individuals living with a bipolar condition.
Clients frequently come to me when they are at a “fork in the road.” They are searching for direction after having experienced and/or overcome significant personal challenges. Unfortunately, they now find that their historical coping mechanisms are no longer serving them. They seek a greater understanding of their emotions, thoughts, and behavioral patterns in order to move forward with their lives.
Additionally, I have much experience working with individuals living with a bipolar condition.
Clients frequently come to me when they are at a “fork in the road.” They are searching for direction after having experienced and/or overcome significant personal challenges. Unfortunately, they now find that their historical coping mechanisms are no longer serving them. They seek a greater understanding of their emotions, thoughts, and behavioral patterns in order to move forward with their lives.
Dr. Rae K. Watkins
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613 (Online Only)
Dr. Watkins is a Clinical Psychologist who's profession experience includes psycho-diagnostic assessment and counseling of children, adolescents and adults in the areas of trauma, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, marital guidance, sexuality, juvenile delinquency and phase of life transitions. Dr. Watkins practices from a client-centered framework, focusing on genuineness and unconditional positive regard for clients, with the belief that all persons are capable of functioning at their full, yet personal, potential. Dr. Watkins has served as an Investigator on clinical trials in the areas of Depression, Bipolar Disorder and Schizophrenia.
Dr. Watkins is a Clinical Psychologist who's profession experience includes psycho-diagnostic assessment and counseling of children, adolescents and adults in the areas of trauma, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, marital guidance, sexuality, juvenile delinquency and phase of life transitions. Dr. Watkins practices from a client-centered framework, focusing on genuineness and unconditional positive regard for clients, with the belief that all persons are capable of functioning at their full, yet personal, potential. Dr. Watkins has served as an Investigator on clinical trials in the areas of Depression, Bipolar Disorder and Schizophrenia.
Mimi Seversen
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palatine, IL 60074 (Online Only)
I see clients from a wide array of backgrounds dealing with various issues that have taken a toll on their ability to cope with life’s challenges. My prior experiences have engaged concerns including depression, anxiety, bipolar, challenges regarding health and individuation within family systems, experiences of trauma, violence and abuse. I’ve been honored to sit with people who carry the uniquely isolating weight of being in relationships or in families where alcoholism is present.
I see clients from a wide array of backgrounds dealing with various issues that have taken a toll on their ability to cope with life’s challenges. My prior experiences have engaged concerns including depression, anxiety, bipolar, challenges regarding health and individuation within family systems, experiences of trauma, violence and abuse. I’ve been honored to sit with people who carry the uniquely isolating weight of being in relationships or in families where alcoholism is present.
Dr. Jonah Waseberg
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60613
Currently sessions are conducted virtually- Dr. Waseberg is a psychotherapist and professor of counseling psychology. He helps individuals and couples struggling with relationships, trauma, depression, anxiety, PTSD, eating disorders, grief, alcohol/drugs, abandonment, anger, OCD, social anxiety, phobia, bipolar/borderline and other psychological issues. He digs deep into the roots of your underlying issues in a safe non-judgmental space with empathy. He has rich experience providing counseling in private practice settings as well as Inpatient Residential Treatment, Partial Hospitalization-PHP, and Intensive Outpatient-IOP settings.
Currently sessions are conducted virtually- Dr. Waseberg is a psychotherapist and professor of counseling psychology. He helps individuals and couples struggling with relationships, trauma, depression, anxiety, PTSD, eating disorders, grief, alcohol/drugs, abandonment, anger, OCD, social anxiety, phobia, bipolar/borderline and other psychological issues. He digs deep into the roots of your underlying issues in a safe non-judgmental space with empathy. He has rich experience providing counseling in private practice settings as well as Inpatient Residential Treatment, Partial Hospitalization-PHP, and Intensive Outpatient-IOP settings.
Kristin Smith
Counselor, LCPC, CADC, MA
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62703
Kristin Smith is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor. She received her Master's Degree in Counseling from Lincoln Christian University. She has a wide range of clinical experience working with individuals, children, teens, and families experiencing challenges with anxiety, depression, anger management, PTSD, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, co-occurring disorders (mental health and substance abuse), life changes and transitions, relationships, grief and loss, and substance abuse/ addictions. Ms. Smith has worked in outpatient and residential settings both at Memorial and SIU.
Kristin Smith is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor. She received her Master's Degree in Counseling from Lincoln Christian University. She has a wide range of clinical experience working with individuals, children, teens, and families experiencing challenges with anxiety, depression, anger management, PTSD, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, co-occurring disorders (mental health and substance abuse), life changes and transitions, relationships, grief and loss, and substance abuse/ addictions. Ms. Smith has worked in outpatient and residential settings both at Memorial and SIU.
Jillian King
Counselor, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
Areas of specialization include the treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar, substance use, and life transitions.
By utilizing a warm and understanding approach, Jill focuses on addressing unhealthy behaviors and patterns which may prevent awareness and growth for her clients.
Areas of specialization include the treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar, substance use, and life transitions.
By utilizing a warm and understanding approach, Jill focuses on addressing unhealthy behaviors and patterns which may prevent awareness and growth for her clients.
Kelly Schenk
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Murphysboro, IL 62966
I offer trauma focused therapy in person, I work well with children and adolescents. I provide nature, art and play therapy. I see adults as well including bipolar and paranoid symptoms. I help solve self conflict and guide individuals through shadow work. I want my clients to trust their thoughts and emotions empowering them to reconnect to the world in a real way.
I offer trauma focused therapy in person, I work well with children and adolescents. I provide nature, art and play therapy. I see adults as well including bipolar and paranoid symptoms. I help solve self conflict and guide individuals through shadow work. I want my clients to trust their thoughts and emotions empowering them to reconnect to the world in a real way.
Mental Edge Counseling LLC
Psychologist, PsyD, RDDP
Verified Verified
Mokena, IL 60448
Kimberly specializes in numerous mental health issues, including: Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, PTSD, Anger Issues, Relationship issues, and Personality and Behavior Disorders. Over the years, Kimberly has gained expertise with several specialty areas and populations in mental health, including co-occurring disorders, trauma-informed/ gender-responsive treatment, and has significant experience working with diverse populations. Kimberly also has expertise working with clients with substance abuse struggles and is a Registered Dual Disorder Professional (RDDP).
Kimberly specializes in numerous mental health issues, including: Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, PTSD, Anger Issues, Relationship issues, and Personality and Behavior Disorders. Over the years, Kimberly has gained expertise with several specialty areas and populations in mental health, including co-occurring disorders, trauma-informed/ gender-responsive treatment, and has significant experience working with diverse populations. Kimberly also has expertise working with clients with substance abuse struggles and is a Registered Dual Disorder Professional (RDDP).
Dr. Jeffrey Brower
MD
Verified Verified
Metropolis, IL 62960
TMS can also be used to treat Alzheimer's, Anxiety, Autism, Bipolar, Chronic Pain, Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson's, Post Stroke, PTSD, Schizophrenia, and Smoking Cessation.
Do you suffer from Depression or have Suicidal Thoughts? TMS provides true treatment with a 75% success rate in treatment with 50% of patients experiencing a full remission of symptoms for patients who struggle with depression and OCD. This includes those who have tried multiple medications and struggled with side effects or have not received relief. TMS is not painful or disruptive, does not cause systemic side effects, and does not require hospitalization or anesthesia. Results are often noticed by family and friends within a week. Patient often report results as early as 3 weeks into treatment.
TMS can also be used to treat Alzheimer's, Anxiety, Autism, Bipolar, Chronic Pain, Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson's, Post Stroke, PTSD, Schizophrenia, and Smoking Cessation.
Do you suffer from Depression or have Suicidal Thoughts? TMS provides true treatment with a 75% success rate in treatment with 50% of patients experiencing a full remission of symptoms for patients who struggle with depression and OCD. This includes those who have tried multiple medications and struggled with side effects or have not received relief. TMS is not painful or disruptive, does not cause systemic side effects, and does not require hospitalization or anesthesia. Results are often noticed by family and friends within a week. Patient often report results as early as 3 weeks into treatment.
Katrina Ramirez
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563
Dr. Ramirez has experience providing individual and group therapy to adolescents, young adults, and adults. She engages clients in therapy with enthusiasm, warmth, and compassion. Dr. Ramirez specializes in working with individuals who struggle with drug/behavioral addictions, bipolar disorder, depression, trauma, and psychosis. Further, she enjoys working with co-occurring disorders and acute mental health symptoms where she utilizes an empathic and strength-focused approach. Creating a safe space for her clients is her utmost priority, recognizing the challenges that are innate to those suffering with mental health disorders.
Dr. Ramirez has experience providing individual and group therapy to adolescents, young adults, and adults. She engages clients in therapy with enthusiasm, warmth, and compassion. Dr. Ramirez specializes in working with individuals who struggle with drug/behavioral addictions, bipolar disorder, depression, trauma, and psychosis. Further, she enjoys working with co-occurring disorders and acute mental health symptoms where she utilizes an empathic and strength-focused approach. Creating a safe space for her clients is her utmost priority, recognizing the challenges that are innate to those suffering with mental health disorders.
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Jean Miller Counseling Center
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, MA
Verified Verified
Plainfield, IL 60585
While my passion is integrating faith and counseling, my gift is understanding Bipolar Disorder and its affects on individuals and families.
I have worked extensively with individuals and families impacted by severe mental illness, providing understanding, insight, and practical knowledge. I have a passion for integrating psychological knowledge and Biblical truth. I believe that competent Christian counseling must incorporate strong psychological knowledge filtered through the lens of Biblical truth and the Christian worldview. Further, I am specifically gifted in leading others to a deeper, more intimate knowledge of God. I received a BS from Columbia International University in Columbia, S.C. where I double majored in Biblical studies and psychology. I also received a MA Clinical Psychology degree from Wheaton College.
While my passion is integrating faith and counseling, my gift is understanding Bipolar Disorder and its affects on individuals and families.
I have worked extensively with individuals and families impacted by severe mental illness, providing understanding, insight, and practical knowledge. I have a passion for integrating psychological knowledge and Biblical truth. I believe that competent Christian counseling must incorporate strong psychological knowledge filtered through the lens of Biblical truth and the Christian worldview. Further, I am specifically gifted in leading others to a deeper, more intimate knowledge of God. I received a BS from Columbia International University in Columbia, S.C. where I double majored in Biblical studies and psychology. I also received a MA Clinical Psychology degree from Wheaton College.
Conventions Psychiatry & Counseling
Verified Verified
Warrenville, IL 60555
Offering in-office NeuroStar TMS treatments! TMS is a non-drug, non-invasive treatment for Depression. Conventions Psychiatry & Counseling offers mental health treatment for those suffering from Depressive Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Bipolar Disorder, Addictions, and Personality Disorders. We also treat those struggling with life transitions, grief, or stress. Conventions Psychiatry & Counseling has been a trusted resource for mental health treatment in Naperville, IL and the surrounding area, for 20 years. Our practice has grown into a one-stop treatment facility, treating all ages and offering a variety of services.
Offering in-office NeuroStar TMS treatments! TMS is a non-drug, non-invasive treatment for Depression. Conventions Psychiatry & Counseling offers mental health treatment for those suffering from Depressive Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Bipolar Disorder, Addictions, and Personality Disorders. We also treat those struggling with life transitions, grief, or stress. Conventions Psychiatry & Counseling has been a trusted resource for mental health treatment in Naperville, IL and the surrounding area, for 20 years. Our practice has grown into a one-stop treatment facility, treating all ages and offering a variety of services.
Greg Mahoney
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Bloomingdale, IL 60108
I have expertise in dealing with Conflict Resolution, Anger Management, Depression, Anxiety, Substance Abuse, Bipolar Disorder, Coping Skills, Stress, and Trauma/PTSD.
Hello, my name is Greg Mahoney and I have been a Professional Counselor for over 30 years. I have a M.A. in Counseling Psychology from the Adler School of Professional Psychology. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor licensed by the State of Illinois. I have worked in numerous settings: Inpatient, Outpatient, a Substance Abuse Clinic, and in Churches. I have wide-ranging experience both professionally and personally. I have been married to my wife for 32 years and we have raised three daughters. I feel it is the calling of my life to help others and it has been the Joy of my life to do so. Let me help you today.
I have expertise in dealing with Conflict Resolution, Anger Management, Depression, Anxiety, Substance Abuse, Bipolar Disorder, Coping Skills, Stress, and Trauma/PTSD.
Hello, my name is Greg Mahoney and I have been a Professional Counselor for over 30 years. I have a M.A. in Counseling Psychology from the Adler School of Professional Psychology. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor licensed by the State of Illinois. I have worked in numerous settings: Inpatient, Outpatient, a Substance Abuse Clinic, and in Churches. I have wide-ranging experience both professionally and personally. I have been married to my wife for 32 years and we have raised three daughters. I feel it is the calling of my life to help others and it has been the Joy of my life to do so. Let me help you today.
Jodi Knox-Holub
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pekin, IL 61554
I have experience working with individuals suffering from Depression, Bipolar, Anxiety, Schizophrenia, and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder.
Our life experiences shape who we are and sometimes those experiences can be painful. The thoughts and feelings we have about those experiences shape our beliefs. My job as a therapist is to partner with you to discover how your thoughts and feelings shape your behavior. I believe that all behavior serves as a function for us and when we understand the function we can change our negative behaviors to positive behaviors. **I also offer Mediation for contested and uncontested cases; specializing in the area of children agreements. Mediation is a much more cost effective way to reach agreements in the Divorce process.
I have experience working with individuals suffering from Depression, Bipolar, Anxiety, Schizophrenia, and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder.
Our life experiences shape who we are and sometimes those experiences can be painful. The thoughts and feelings we have about those experiences shape our beliefs. My job as a therapist is to partner with you to discover how your thoughts and feelings shape your behavior. I believe that all behavior serves as a function for us and when we understand the function we can change our negative behaviors to positive behaviors. **I also offer Mediation for contested and uncontested cases; specializing in the area of children agreements. Mediation is a much more cost effective way to reach agreements in the Divorce process.
Innovative Counseling Partners PLLC
Counselor, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Libertyville, IL 60048
We have been trained to work with a variety of issues-Depression, Anger, Anxiety (group and individual formats), Bipolar disorder, Trauma, Child and Adolescent work (males and females), Sexual Abuse, Play Therapy, Family therapy, Cultural issues (adapting to the western culture), and Gay/Lesbian family issues.
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers, finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward an Integrative approach and help our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tends toward a systems based approach using behavior methods.
We have been trained to work with a variety of issues-Depression, Anger, Anxiety (group and individual formats), Bipolar disorder, Trauma, Child and Adolescent work (males and females), Sexual Abuse, Play Therapy, Family therapy, Cultural issues (adapting to the western culture), and Gay/Lesbian family issues.
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers, finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward an Integrative approach and help our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tends toward a systems based approach using behavior methods.
Cynthia M Stafford
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
I specialize in the treatment of anxiety and panic disorders; depression, bipolar disorders and post-partum depression; eating disorders, including anorexia, bulimia, and compulsive overeating; weight management and healthy lifestyle coaching; trauma recovery, including sexual abuse; self-esteem and self-image issues; marriage and relationship counseling; and divorce recovery.
Are you struggling in your personal life or relationships? Counseling is the first step to becoming healthy and fulfilled. I have 30+ years of experience walking alongside people of all ages, including couples and families, to help them on their journey of personal growth. We will work cooperatively together to reach your goals through proven therapeutic interventions, including stress management, anger management, communication skills, emotion regulation, relaxation techniques, cognitive/behavioral therapy, & EMDR. Let's get started working toward your goals.
I specialize in the treatment of anxiety and panic disorders; depression, bipolar disorders and post-partum depression; eating disorders, including anorexia, bulimia, and compulsive overeating; weight management and healthy lifestyle coaching; trauma recovery, including sexual abuse; self-esteem and self-image issues; marriage and relationship counseling; and divorce recovery.
Are you struggling in your personal life or relationships? Counseling is the first step to becoming healthy and fulfilled. I have 30+ years of experience walking alongside people of all ages, including couples and families, to help them on their journey of personal growth. We will work cooperatively together to reach your goals through proven therapeutic interventions, including stress management, anger management, communication skills, emotion regulation, relaxation techniques, cognitive/behavioral therapy, & EMDR. Let's get started working toward your goals.
Dr. Jeffrey Brower
MD
Verified Verified
Salem, IL 62881
TMS can also be used to treat Alzheimer's, Anxiety, Autism, Bipolar, Chronic Pain, Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson's, Post Stroke, PTSD, Schizophrenia, and Smoking Cessation.
Do you suffer from Depression or have Suicidal Thoughts? TMS provides true treatment with a 75% success rate in treatment with 50% of patients experiencing a full remission of symptoms for patients who struggle with depression and OCD. This includes those who have tried multiple medications and struggled with side effects or have not received relief. TMS is not painful or disruptive, does not cause systemic side effects, and does not require hospitalization or anesthesia. Results are often noticed by family and friends within a week. Patient often report results as early as 3 weeks into treatment.
TMS can also be used to treat Alzheimer's, Anxiety, Autism, Bipolar, Chronic Pain, Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson's, Post Stroke, PTSD, Schizophrenia, and Smoking Cessation.
Do you suffer from Depression or have Suicidal Thoughts? TMS provides true treatment with a 75% success rate in treatment with 50% of patients experiencing a full remission of symptoms for patients who struggle with depression and OCD. This includes those who have tried multiple medications and struggled with side effects or have not received relief. TMS is not painful or disruptive, does not cause systemic side effects, and does not require hospitalization or anesthesia. Results are often noticed by family and friends within a week. Patient often report results as early as 3 weeks into treatment.
Mark S Carich
Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Belleville, IL 62226
I have had a variety of experiences working with people who have had different types of problems. I have worked with individuals having problems ranging from anxiety, depression, anger management, chronic habitual problems, compulsivity, bipolar, sexual addiction, sexual offending/deviant behaviors, and psychotic issues. The value of therapy is that clients can come in with issues and with work receive some results in the form of change. It is my job to help facilitate that process. I believe in helping people work out their problems and provide them with the skill sets to help them accomplish their goals.
I have had a variety of experiences working with people who have had different types of problems. I have worked with individuals having problems ranging from anxiety, depression, anger management, chronic habitual problems, compulsivity, bipolar, sexual addiction, sexual offending/deviant behaviors, and psychotic issues. The value of therapy is that clients can come in with issues and with work receive some results in the form of change. It is my job to help facilitate that process. I believe in helping people work out their problems and provide them with the skill sets to help them accomplish their goals.
LifeThrive T M S
MD
Verified Verified
Metropolis, IL 62960
TMS can also be used to treat Alzheimer's, Anxiety, Autism, Bipolar, Chronic Pain, Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson's, Post Stroke, PTSD, Schizophrenia, and Smoking Cessation.
Do you suffer from Depression or have Suicidal Thoughts? TMS provides true treatment with a 75% success rate in treatment with 50% of patients experiencing a full remission of symptoms for patients who struggle with depression and OCD. This includes those who have tried multiple medications and struggled with side effects or have not received relief. TMS is not painful or disruptive, does not cause systemic side effects, and does not require hospitalization or anesthesia. Results are often noticed by family and friends within a week. Patient often report results as early as 3 weeks into treatment.
TMS can also be used to treat Alzheimer's, Anxiety, Autism, Bipolar, Chronic Pain, Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson's, Post Stroke, PTSD, Schizophrenia, and Smoking Cessation.
Do you suffer from Depression or have Suicidal Thoughts? TMS provides true treatment with a 75% success rate in treatment with 50% of patients experiencing a full remission of symptoms for patients who struggle with depression and OCD. This includes those who have tried multiple medications and struggled with side effects or have not received relief. TMS is not painful or disruptive, does not cause systemic side effects, and does not require hospitalization or anesthesia. Results are often noticed by family and friends within a week. Patient often report results as early as 3 weeks into treatment.
See more therapy options for Illinois
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.