Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Georgina, ON
Brittany Lepera @ Psychotherapy For You
Registered Social Worker
Verified Verified
Georgina, ON L4P (Online Only)
Hello and Welcome to Psychotherapy for You! Do you often feel weighed down by stress, anxiety, depression, or substance abuse? If you find it challenging to manage your day-to-day life, come talk to me, and together we will work on strategies that allow you to address the root causes of your struggles. I have over a decade of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults in a variety of settings including community agencies, schools, healthcare centres, and outpatient addiction treatment services. My career began as an Educational Assistant in 2009. My educational background includes an Honours Bachelor of Social Work
Hello and Welcome to Psychotherapy for You! Do you often feel weighed down by stress, anxiety, depression, or substance abuse? If you find it challenging to manage your day-to-day life, come talk to me, and together we will work on strategies that allow you to address the root causes of your struggles. I have over a decade of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults in a variety of settings including community agencies, schools, healthcare centres, and outpatient addiction treatment services. My career began as an Educational Assistant in 2009. My educational background includes an Honours Bachelor of Social Work
Stef Wood (Psychotherapy For You)
Registered Psychotherapist, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Georgina, ON L4P (Online Only)
Hi I am Stef! Nice to meet you! Starting a healing journey is a time of transition, but you don’t have to do it alone. If you have been searching for meaning and purpose in your everyday life, I can help support you in a variety of ways. I obtained my degree in counselling arts psychology, and my experience allows me to offer effective and individualized psychological care with a unique passion for mindfulness and the highly sensitive person. Before training as a therapist, I was first a mental health advocate, and I worked within the yoga and mindfulness community.
Hi I am Stef! Nice to meet you! Starting a healing journey is a time of transition, but you don’t have to do it alone. If you have been searching for meaning and purpose in your everyday life, I can help support you in a variety of ways. I obtained my degree in counselling arts psychology, and my experience allows me to offer effective and individualized psychological care with a unique passion for mindfulness and the highly sensitive person. Before training as a therapist, I was first a mental health advocate, and I worked within the yoga and mindfulness community.
Krista Gatti @ Psychotherapy for You
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Georgina, ON L4P (Online Only)
I am a registered social Worker and Psychotherapist in Ontario. I am also a member of Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers. I obtained my bachelor of Social Work from the University of Manitoba and obtained my Masters of Social Work from the University of Windsor. I have a certificate in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT). I also have a certificate in Acceptance and Commitment (ACT) Therapy and Brian Spotting. I started my career by providing support to individuals who were struggling with life challenges. I have experience working with a variety of areas such as anxiety, depression, grief, separation, and sel
I am a registered social Worker and Psychotherapist in Ontario. I am also a member of Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers. I obtained my bachelor of Social Work from the University of Manitoba and obtained my Masters of Social Work from the University of Windsor. I have a certificate in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT). I also have a certificate in Acceptance and Commitment (ACT) Therapy and Brian Spotting. I started my career by providing support to individuals who were struggling with life challenges. I have experience working with a variety of areas such as anxiety, depression, grief, separation, and sel
More Therapists Nearby
I specialize in addiction/substance use, low self esteem and mental health including, but not limited to, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and childhood trauma.
I believe in you. Whether you’re a teen, adult or young at heart, I will listen and walk with you on your healing journey. If you are struggling with the relationship with yourself, parents, partner or others, I will support you with learning new coping strategies and behaviours on how to best take care of yourself in those relationships.
I specialize in addiction/substance use, low self esteem and mental health including, but not limited to, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and childhood trauma.
I believe in you. Whether you’re a teen, adult or young at heart, I will listen and walk with you on your healing journey. If you are struggling with the relationship with yourself, parents, partner or others, I will support you with learning new coping strategies and behaviours on how to best take care of yourself in those relationships.
Are you struggling to find balance in your daily life challenges? Do you feel emotional dysregulation, irregular feelings towards important persons in your life, feelings of insignificance in people’s lives, sadness, impulse control. I understand this isolation of feeling dysregulated and trapped without the ability to express intense thoughts and feelings.
Are you struggling to find balance in your daily life challenges? Do you feel emotional dysregulation, irregular feelings towards important persons in your life, feelings of insignificance in people’s lives, sadness, impulse control. I understand this isolation of feeling dysregulated and trapped without the ability to express intense thoughts and feelings.
ADHD/ASD, Stress/Anxiety, OCD, Perinatal Issues! Perhaps you're struggling to get things done and are getting overwhelmed and procrastinate as a result. Your ADHD, anxiety, stress or depression just seem to get in the way of how you want to be living your life. It's hard to get through the days and you're starting to get down on yourself. You want to learn to overcome your mental health challenges and start feeling like yourself again. That's where therapy can help! I will help you find your strengths to overcome your hurdles while also helping you make meaningful changes and gain new perspectives in life.
ADHD/ASD, Stress/Anxiety, OCD, Perinatal Issues! Perhaps you're struggling to get things done and are getting overwhelmed and procrastinate as a result. Your ADHD, anxiety, stress or depression just seem to get in the way of how you want to be living your life. It's hard to get through the days and you're starting to get down on yourself. You want to learn to overcome your mental health challenges and start feeling like yourself again. That's where therapy can help! I will help you find your strengths to overcome your hurdles while also helping you make meaningful changes and gain new perspectives in life.
Life comes with many challenges that can affect how we are functioning in the many roles we hold in our life. Our thoughts, behaviours, and emotional responses can really weigh us down. They hold us back, and leave us feeling stressed and overwhelmed. I'm here to empower you with the tools and coping strategies necessary to overcome challenges such as depression, self-harm, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma/PTSD, and complex situations. This will leave you with a sense of balance and peacefulness.
Life comes with many challenges that can affect how we are functioning in the many roles we hold in our life. Our thoughts, behaviours, and emotional responses can really weigh us down. They hold us back, and leave us feeling stressed and overwhelmed. I'm here to empower you with the tools and coping strategies necessary to overcome challenges such as depression, self-harm, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma/PTSD, and complex situations. This will leave you with a sense of balance and peacefulness.
Andra Escobar
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA, MACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Innisfil, ON L9S
Are you seeking to embark on a journey of healing from narcissistic abuse and the scars it leaves behind? Do life's challenges often leave you feeling isolated and misunderstood? Are you yearning to address issues of infidelity and intimacy within your relationship? Rest assured, drawing from personal experience, I understand that the path to self-love, healing, and self-discovery is a continuous one. Because of this, I aspire to help individuals overcome their challenges regarding self-worth, internal strength, and resilience and heal and grow.
Are you seeking to embark on a journey of healing from narcissistic abuse and the scars it leaves behind? Do life's challenges often leave you feeling isolated and misunderstood? Are you yearning to address issues of infidelity and intimacy within your relationship? Rest assured, drawing from personal experience, I understand that the path to self-love, healing, and self-discovery is a continuous one. Because of this, I aspire to help individuals overcome their challenges regarding self-worth, internal strength, and resilience and heal and grow.
Newmarket Psychotherapy Team, Inc.
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Keswick, ON L4P
Are you in a place in your life where you require emotional support? Perhaps you know someone who does? We have all struggled, or are struggling, and it is important to remember that as human beings, it is common to experience a variety of hardships at different times in life. Newmarket Psychotherapy Team is a growing team of collaborative therapists with a nurturing space for you to visit, where a therapist of your choice can provide you with the kind of support that you require and deserve. Our Collective welcomes everyone, at anytime. It is never too late to reach out for support.
Are you in a place in your life where you require emotional support? Perhaps you know someone who does? We have all struggled, or are struggling, and it is important to remember that as human beings, it is common to experience a variety of hardships at different times in life. Newmarket Psychotherapy Team is a growing team of collaborative therapists with a nurturing space for you to visit, where a therapist of your choice can provide you with the kind of support that you require and deserve. Our Collective welcomes everyone, at anytime. It is never too late to reach out for support.
Trauma, addiction, and mental health struggles are all too familiar for countless people in Canada. These challenges often feel like overwhelming mountains, blocking the light and making it hard to see the path ahead. Yet, there is no reason for anyone to walk this path alone. My approach to holistic care is neither formulaic nor prescriptive. Rather, it is compassionate and patient. I blend evidence-based therapies, such as CBT, ACT, DBT with somatic techniques and energy medicine to nurture and support one meaningful step at a time.
Trauma, addiction, and mental health struggles are all too familiar for countless people in Canada. These challenges often feel like overwhelming mountains, blocking the light and making it hard to see the path ahead. Yet, there is no reason for anyone to walk this path alone. My approach to holistic care is neither formulaic nor prescriptive. Rather, it is compassionate and patient. I blend evidence-based therapies, such as CBT, ACT, DBT with somatic techniques and energy medicine to nurture and support one meaningful step at a time.
My approach comes from a place of empathy, understanding, and compassion. I believe that building and maintaining a positive therapeutic environment that centres around trust and respect is important to making you feel comfortable in sessions. I understand that this process is difficult, and I am here to offer support during your healing journey.
My approach comes from a place of empathy, understanding, and compassion. I believe that building and maintaining a positive therapeutic environment that centres around trust and respect is important to making you feel comfortable in sessions. I understand that this process is difficult, and I am here to offer support during your healing journey.
Quick, close your eyes. Where do you expect to be in five years? When I was in my own despair, I never would have imagined that less than five years after living through such tumultuous times, my life would bring me to this incredible field. My work is now my calling and I am super passionate about supporting my clients through their growth and change. For over a decade, I have worked with a range of private clients and organizations. My years of experience has introduced me to clients and their families, experiencing highly diverse struggles including trauma, depression, anxiety, personality disorders, substance abuse, and more.
Quick, close your eyes. Where do you expect to be in five years? When I was in my own despair, I never would have imagined that less than five years after living through such tumultuous times, my life would bring me to this incredible field. My work is now my calling and I am super passionate about supporting my clients through their growth and change. For over a decade, I have worked with a range of private clients and organizations. My years of experience has introduced me to clients and their families, experiencing highly diverse struggles including trauma, depression, anxiety, personality disorders, substance abuse, and more.
Philippa Hamson
Registered Psychotherapist, MC, CCC, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Keswick, ON L4P
I have over 14 years of experience in the field of psychotherapy and specialize in helping clients improve their mood and decrease negative feelings, manage emotions more effectively, gain clarity, quiet negative self-talk, become more assertive, and remove barriers that may be preventing them from making meaningful change. I also offer couples counseling to help partners navigate challenges, improve communication, and deepen connection. Whether you're facing conflicts, seeking to strengthen your bond, or recover from a betrayal I provide a safe and supportive space for healing and growth.
I have over 14 years of experience in the field of psychotherapy and specialize in helping clients improve their mood and decrease negative feelings, manage emotions more effectively, gain clarity, quiet negative self-talk, become more assertive, and remove barriers that may be preventing them from making meaningful change. I also offer couples counseling to help partners navigate challenges, improve communication, and deepen connection. Whether you're facing conflicts, seeking to strengthen your bond, or recover from a betrayal I provide a safe and supportive space for healing and growth.
Carol Alexander @ Psychotherapy for You
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
Innisfil, ON L9S (Online Only)
I am Registered Clinical Counsellor and a Registered Psychotherapist. I work with adults, children, and families providing client centered, attachment focused interventions. My work is based in attachment theory, examining the relationships within your life. Your sense of belonging, and how you see yourself and the world depends greatly on your experiences in your family of origin. As a therapist and consultant, my area of focus in supporting families involves strengthening the parent child relationship. I coach parents to parent in a way that provides insight to their child's inner world while gaining an empathetic
I am Registered Clinical Counsellor and a Registered Psychotherapist. I work with adults, children, and families providing client centered, attachment focused interventions. My work is based in attachment theory, examining the relationships within your life. Your sense of belonging, and how you see yourself and the world depends greatly on your experiences in your family of origin. As a therapist and consultant, my area of focus in supporting families involves strengthening the parent child relationship. I coach parents to parent in a way that provides insight to their child's inner world while gaining an empathetic
Karen Szabo
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA, MACP, RP(Q)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Innisfil, ON L9S
NO WAIT-LIST & In-Person appts! Anxiety/Stress/Burnout, Prenatal/Postpartum, Couples/Relationships, Depression & Trauma- You feel overwhelmed by every little thing and are experiencing a lot of stress/anxiety as a result. You feel down about yourself for letting things "slip" but just can't find the motivation to make changes. Perhaps life just feels like "too much" right now and it's starting to take a toll on your self-esteem and ability to cope with your stress. When you have a lot on your plate and just cant seem to catch a break, it can be hard to find the good in life and think clearly. This is where therapy can help!
NO WAIT-LIST & In-Person appts! Anxiety/Stress/Burnout, Prenatal/Postpartum, Couples/Relationships, Depression & Trauma- You feel overwhelmed by every little thing and are experiencing a lot of stress/anxiety as a result. You feel down about yourself for letting things "slip" but just can't find the motivation to make changes. Perhaps life just feels like "too much" right now and it's starting to take a toll on your self-esteem and ability to cope with your stress. When you have a lot on your plate and just cant seem to catch a break, it can be hard to find the good in life and think clearly. This is where therapy can help!
Un-controlled emotions can sabotage areas of our lives. Are you consistently angry? Or have anxiety and you're losing an appetite for life? Angry outburst can leave you embarrassed or potentially harm important relationships. You may feel a sense that life is out of control when you lash out, especially if it's towards people who didn't deserve it. High anxiety on the other hand can lead to insomnia, depression and the inability to cope with every day life. You may be asking, "Can I ever feel normal again?"
Un-controlled emotions can sabotage areas of our lives. Are you consistently angry? Or have anxiety and you're losing an appetite for life? Angry outburst can leave you embarrassed or potentially harm important relationships. You may feel a sense that life is out of control when you lash out, especially if it's towards people who didn't deserve it. High anxiety on the other hand can lead to insomnia, depression and the inability to cope with every day life. You may be asking, "Can I ever feel normal again?"
Inner Growth Counselling & Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Innisfil, ON L9S
NO-WAIT lists, LOW-COST options, IN-PERSON appts- Perhaps you're feeling down or anxious, or maybe you're unsure about the future of a relationship, or just feel that you aren't living the life you want to lead. Let's face it- life can be hard and sometimes we feel like things will never change or that we are stuck. At Inner Growth Counselling & Psychotherapy, we will help you overcome whatever mental health or personal challenges you are faced with. Our team specializes in treating ADHD, anxiety, stress, depression, self-esteem and self-identity, relationship issues, life transitions, BPD, managing difficult emotions, and trauma.
NO-WAIT lists, LOW-COST options, IN-PERSON appts- Perhaps you're feeling down or anxious, or maybe you're unsure about the future of a relationship, or just feel that you aren't living the life you want to lead. Let's face it- life can be hard and sometimes we feel like things will never change or that we are stuck. At Inner Growth Counselling & Psychotherapy, we will help you overcome whatever mental health or personal challenges you are faced with. Our team specializes in treating ADHD, anxiety, stress, depression, self-esteem and self-identity, relationship issues, life transitions, BPD, managing difficult emotions, and trauma.
Trauma, addiction, and mental health struggles are all too familiar for countless people in Canada. These challenges often feel like overwhelming mountains, blocking the light and making it hard to see the path ahead. Yet, there is no reason for anyone to walk this path alone. My approach to holistic care is neither formulaic nor prescriptive. Rather, it is compassionate and patient. I blend evidence-based therapies, such as CBT, ACT, DBT with somatic techniques and energy medicine to nurture and support one meaningful step at a time.
Trauma, addiction, and mental health struggles are all too familiar for countless people in Canada. These challenges often feel like overwhelming mountains, blocking the light and making it hard to see the path ahead. Yet, there is no reason for anyone to walk this path alone. My approach to holistic care is neither formulaic nor prescriptive. Rather, it is compassionate and patient. I blend evidence-based therapies, such as CBT, ACT, DBT with somatic techniques and energy medicine to nurture and support one meaningful step at a time.
Morgan Hawley
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L9S
Are you feeling overwhelmed by your thoughts and emotions? Do you feel stuck and uncertain about how to move towards the life you want? If so, you’re not alone. Life is a bumpy ride that can be further complicated as an individual from a marginalized or minority group. As a therapist and a queer woman, I understand those additional challenges and strive to provide person-centered care that is tailored to the unique needs of every client. Whether you need a safe and judgement-free space to be heard or need structured tools to help you cope with difficult scenarios and emotions, I’ll help you explore the paths before you!
Are you feeling overwhelmed by your thoughts and emotions? Do you feel stuck and uncertain about how to move towards the life you want? If so, you’re not alone. Life is a bumpy ride that can be further complicated as an individual from a marginalized or minority group. As a therapist and a queer woman, I understand those additional challenges and strive to provide person-centered care that is tailored to the unique needs of every client. Whether you need a safe and judgement-free space to be heard or need structured tools to help you cope with difficult scenarios and emotions, I’ll help you explore the paths before you!
ADHD, Men's Issues, Couples, Stress/Anxiety/Depression- You feel stuck, hopeless, and unsure about where to turn but just know that you want to start feeling better. Perhaps you are struggling with anxiety, overwhelm, ADHD or motivation issues and this is complicating seeking help. Or as a man, you've been feeling bad for quite a while but society tells you to "toughen up" and get through it on your own. Your self-worth has taken a hit and feel lost. Whatever it is you're struggling with, I'd be honoured to help you navigate this tough time and work towards creating a more fulfilling, empowered life.
ADHD, Men's Issues, Couples, Stress/Anxiety/Depression- You feel stuck, hopeless, and unsure about where to turn but just know that you want to start feeling better. Perhaps you are struggling with anxiety, overwhelm, ADHD or motivation issues and this is complicating seeking help. Or as a man, you've been feeling bad for quite a while but society tells you to "toughen up" and get through it on your own. Your self-worth has taken a hit and feel lost. Whatever it is you're struggling with, I'd be honoured to help you navigate this tough time and work towards creating a more fulfilling, empowered life.
Karen Szabo
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA, MACP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Innisfil, ON L9S
I am a compassionate and empathetic counsellor who is dedicated to providing a safe, confidential, and non-judgmental space for you to freely speak your truth. My goal is to give you room to explore yourself and lead the sessions in whichever direction you feel you need to go. I am here to support you towards living a fuller life while guiding you toward self-awareness and empowerment.
I am a compassionate and empathetic counsellor who is dedicated to providing a safe, confidential, and non-judgmental space for you to freely speak your truth. My goal is to give you room to explore yourself and lead the sessions in whichever direction you feel you need to go. I am here to support you towards living a fuller life while guiding you toward self-awareness and empowerment.
NO WAIT list, Weekend & In-Person Appts- Anxiety/Depression/Stress, Self-Esteem, Relationships, Mood/Emotions- You feel isolated and trapped by your own thoughts and feelings. Right now, reaching out to close friends or loved ones for the support you need may feel impossible. You realize that you can’t get to where you want to be in life alone and have courageously decided to look for a therapist that can help you get to where you want to be. I am honoured that your journey has brought you HERE! Starting therapy can be daunting, but rest assured, you are leading every step of the way.
NO WAIT list, Weekend & In-Person Appts- Anxiety/Depression/Stress, Self-Esteem, Relationships, Mood/Emotions- You feel isolated and trapped by your own thoughts and feelings. Right now, reaching out to close friends or loved ones for the support you need may feel impossible. You realize that you can’t get to where you want to be in life alone and have courageously decided to look for a therapist that can help you get to where you want to be. I am honoured that your journey has brought you HERE! Starting therapy can be daunting, but rest assured, you are leading every step of the way.
Taylor Ellis
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP(Q), MACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Innisfil, ON L9S
Relationships, Stress/Anxiety/Depression, Self-Esteem, Trauma- You are feeling anxious, stressed, and overwhelmed to the point that it is starting to impact your daily life. Perhaps your relationships or work/school are starting to suffer and you are now feeling stuck, not knowing what else to do. Maybe you've tried things before with no resolve. Your emotions/mood are up & down, struggling between anxiety and depression, and might be starting to wonder if things will ever get better. Don't worry- we can help you get unstuck and back on track through counselling. I believe that you have the strength to get through this
Relationships, Stress/Anxiety/Depression, Self-Esteem, Trauma- You are feeling anxious, stressed, and overwhelmed to the point that it is starting to impact your daily life. Perhaps your relationships or work/school are starting to suffer and you are now feeling stuck, not knowing what else to do. Maybe you've tried things before with no resolve. Your emotions/mood are up & down, struggling between anxiety and depression, and might be starting to wonder if things will ever get better. Don't worry- we can help you get unstuck and back on track through counselling. I believe that you have the strength to get through this
“With a heart like that, you deserve the world.” (R.M. Drake) - Don’t we all deserve to be the very best version of ourselves, the Best You that there can be. Together, we can examine common negative thinking patterns; in addition, we can work on developing better coping strategies aimed at enhancing personal positive reasoning skills and attitude.
“With a heart like that, you deserve the world.” (R.M. Drake) - Don’t we all deserve to be the very best version of ourselves, the Best You that there can be. Together, we can examine common negative thinking patterns; in addition, we can work on developing better coping strategies aimed at enhancing personal positive reasoning skills and attitude.
Cheyenne Andrew
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP(Q), MACP, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Innisfil, ON L9S
ADHD, Stress/Anxiety, Self-Esteem, LGBTQIA+. You have a hard time "turning off" your racing mind and are feeling stressed. It might be hard for you to focus and you find yourself struggling to get things done. Perhaps you are struggling with procrastination, low motivation, or feeling in a "funk" because life is just too much sometimes. When you are stressed and overwhelmed, it can be hard to feel good about yourself and make the changes you'd like to see. If you are ready to work on yourself and start feeling better, you have come to the right place! You deserve to start feeling like YOU again.
ADHD, Stress/Anxiety, Self-Esteem, LGBTQIA+. You have a hard time "turning off" your racing mind and are feeling stressed. It might be hard for you to focus and you find yourself struggling to get things done. Perhaps you are struggling with procrastination, low motivation, or feeling in a "funk" because life is just too much sometimes. When you are stressed and overwhelmed, it can be hard to feel good about yourself and make the changes you'd like to see. If you are ready to work on yourself and start feeling better, you have come to the right place! You deserve to start feeling like YOU again.
See more therapy options for Georgina
Nearby Bipolar Disorder Counsellors Searches for Georgina
- Alliston
- Barrie
- Bradford
- Innisfil
- Keswick
- King City
- Midhurst
- Newmarket
- Orillia
- Stouffville
- Uxbridge
- Whitchurch-Stouffville
Bipolar Disorder Counsellors
What is the most successful approach to treating bipolar disorder?
Living with bipolar disorder can be challenging, and a number of therapies have been found effective in providing support to patients as they gain the skills to understand and manage the disorder. Family-focused therapy is often helpful for children and teens (the majority of cases develop before age 19); it aims to minimize mood cycling by improving family communication and reducing conflict. It also helps young people navigate the developmental challenges the disorder can create. Cognitive and behavioral therapy (CBT) and variants such as Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)help patients manage the thoughts and feelings that influence bipolar mood swings as well as develop specific behavioral strategies to counteract them.
What happens in therapy for bipolar disorder?
Because the patterns of mood switching and its triggers differ for each person and can change over time, mood tracking or monitoring becomes a basic way patients learn about the nature of their condition. One of the most common features of therapy is finding a workable method of mood monitoring, in which patients track their daily activities and rate their moods, then use the findings to adjust routines accordingly. Patients learn ways of handling the many stresses that arise in life so that they do not trigger mood swings.
What kinds of problems does therapy help with?
Like many other mental health disorders, BPD is heavily influenced by stress; therapy provides skills for coping with stressors of all kinds. Therapy is extremely important for helping individuals identify the situations that may trigger mood switching, so that mood swings can be prevented. Therapy may especially target recognition of the early stages of mood change so that they can be managed. In addition, therapy helps patients deal with the significant amount of turbulence the disorder can create in relationships and in work life.
What is the goal of therapy for bipolar disorder?
Therapy helps patients set up their lives to maintain stability so that their mood isn’t constantly threatened by daily events. Perhaps the first task of therapy is to educate people about the nature of the disorder. At the same time, a primary goal of therapy is to enhance adherence to drug treatment. Extended periods of mood stability can prompt patients to discontinue medication, triggering relapse, while the early phases of manic episodes can feel so energizing that patients stop medication, ushering in full-blown mania and the altered self-perception that can lead to destructive behaviors. Another major goal of therapy is to understand one’s mood patterns so as to minimize both the frequency and intensity of mood cycling.