Photo of Joanna Gillis, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joanna Gillis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Century City, CA 90067
I believe everyone can use some extra support sometimes. Whether you are seeking therapy to address a specific issue or because life feels overwhelming in general, I am here to help you identify your strengths, figure out how to cope with challenges, and guide you to increase your self esteem. Everyone's needs are unique, and I use a variety of evidence-based modalities. I provide a safe space for people to explore their deepest vulnerabilities with me. I am an empathetic listener, sensitive, compassionate, and I value the power of humor.
I believe everyone can use some extra support sometimes. Whether you are seeking therapy to address a specific issue or because life feels overwhelming in general, I am here to help you identify your strengths, figure out how to cope with challenges, and guide you to increase your self esteem. Everyone's needs are unique, and I use a variety of evidence-based modalities. I provide a safe space for people to explore their deepest vulnerabilities with me. I am an empathetic listener, sensitive, compassionate, and I value the power of humor.
(424) 338-9658 View (424) 338-9658

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Leslie Margolis, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Leslie Margolis
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Beverly Hills, CA 90212
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist as well as a Psychoanalytic candidate. In my work I aim to foster a safe, non-judgmental atmosphere in which individuals can develop insight and address non-productive patterns of behavior. I am experienced in treating a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder. I have successfully worked with individuals who were subjected to parental narcissism, neglect, abuse, and other difficult and painful circumstances. I am also experienced in working with newly single individuals who are struggling to redefine their lives.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist as well as a Psychoanalytic candidate. In my work I aim to foster a safe, non-judgmental atmosphere in which individuals can develop insight and address non-productive patterns of behavior. I am experienced in treating a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder. I have successfully worked with individuals who were subjected to parental narcissism, neglect, abuse, and other difficult and painful circumstances. I am also experienced in working with newly single individuals who are struggling to redefine their lives.
(424) 295-7352 View (424) 295-7352
Photo of Shobha George, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shobha George
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90024  (Online Only)
I have experience working with all demographics but mostly with adults that struggle with a variety of issues, including (but not limited to) depression, anxiety, bipolar and psychotic disorders, stress management, family conflicts, relationship, behavioral and other mental health problems. My approach to you as a client is simple, meet you where you are. I use an eclectic theoretical approach that fits your needs, and one that makes you feel the most comfortable.
I have experience working with all demographics but mostly with adults that struggle with a variety of issues, including (but not limited to) depression, anxiety, bipolar and psychotic disorders, stress management, family conflicts, relationship, behavioral and other mental health problems. My approach to you as a client is simple, meet you where you are. I use an eclectic theoretical approach that fits your needs, and one that makes you feel the most comfortable.
(408) 516-4655 View (408) 516-4655
Photo of Adella Jaeger, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Adella Jaeger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90064
 My areas of expertise include depression and anxiety, bipolar, child development, parenting, teens and maternal health.
Are you feeling "stuck," overwhelmed, or find yourself worrying about things beyond your control? You are looking for the right therapist, someone who will not only "get you," but will actually help you. I am not a stereotypical "so how does that make you feel" therapist. Yes, I am very empathetic, down to earth, caring, and intuitive.. And I am also practical. As a therapist with over a decade of experience, I am actively involved, goal oriented, and realistic. I am skilled at providing both traditional and cutting-edge therapies, using invaluable tools that can open the doors for the insight and clarity that you are searching for.
 My areas of expertise include depression and anxiety, bipolar, child development, parenting, teens and maternal health.
Are you feeling "stuck," overwhelmed, or find yourself worrying about things beyond your control? You are looking for the right therapist, someone who will not only "get you," but will actually help you. I am not a stereotypical "so how does that make you feel" therapist. Yes, I am very empathetic, down to earth, caring, and intuitive.. And I am also practical. As a therapist with over a decade of experience, I am actively involved, goal oriented, and realistic. I am skilled at providing both traditional and cutting-edge therapies, using invaluable tools that can open the doors for the insight and clarity that you are searching for.
(702) 710-0826 View (702) 710-0826
Photo of Alyson DiRocco Fisher, PsyD, Psychologist
Alyson DiRocco Fisher
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90064
I specialize in treating bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, depression, and anxiety.
Connecting with the right therapist can be challenging. As a clinician, I strive to empower clients to make meaningful changes, while also helping them hold self-compassion in the process. I ground my work in evidence-based therapies, and use an in-depth case conceptualization to understand how problems are getting in the way of the life my clients want to lead.
I specialize in treating bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, depression, and anxiety.
Connecting with the right therapist can be challenging. As a clinician, I strive to empower clients to make meaningful changes, while also helping them hold self-compassion in the process. I ground my work in evidence-based therapies, and use an in-depth case conceptualization to understand how problems are getting in the way of the life my clients want to lead.
(310) 564-0785 View (310) 564-0785
Photo of Lana Cohen, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lana Cohen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90034
You're feeling depressed, isolated, frustrated and angry with the state of the world. And yet you're still expected to keep up with overwhelming pressures and demands of day to day life. It can feel impossible. All this stress can cause us to lose sight of what’s important and end up stuck in the same unhelpful patterns in our work, our relationships, and our own thoughts. But it doesn't have to be this way. What if you could get back in touch with your hopes, dreams, and desires? I work with clients struggling with bipolar disorder or depression, job and career stress, loneliness, and relationship conflicts.
You're feeling depressed, isolated, frustrated and angry with the state of the world. And yet you're still expected to keep up with overwhelming pressures and demands of day to day life. It can feel impossible. All this stress can cause us to lose sight of what’s important and end up stuck in the same unhelpful patterns in our work, our relationships, and our own thoughts. But it doesn't have to be this way. What if you could get back in touch with your hopes, dreams, and desires? I work with clients struggling with bipolar disorder or depression, job and career stress, loneliness, and relationship conflicts.
(747) 269-6061 View (747) 269-6061
Photo of Marcos Andrade, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Marcos Andrade
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90064
I have worked in community mental health, where I've supported clients grappling with bipolar disorder, addiction, substance abuse, and chronic mental health issues.
What's holding you back from starting your journey towards a brighter, more fulfilling life? I'm all about embracing authenticity and diving into your experiences and future aspirations. My approach is sincere and down-to-earth, bringing warmth, genuineness, and inclusivity into our therapy sessions together. I believe that therapy is a team effort where your needs and goals are what matter most. Clients like you can feel comfortable knowing I'm here to help you with compassion, creating a space where you can truly be yourself. I work with children, teens, adults, couples, and families. ¡Hablo español!
I have worked in community mental health, where I've supported clients grappling with bipolar disorder, addiction, substance abuse, and chronic mental health issues.
What's holding you back from starting your journey towards a brighter, more fulfilling life? I'm all about embracing authenticity and diving into your experiences and future aspirations. My approach is sincere and down-to-earth, bringing warmth, genuineness, and inclusivity into our therapy sessions together. I believe that therapy is a team effort where your needs and goals are what matter most. Clients like you can feel comfortable knowing I'm here to help you with compassion, creating a space where you can truly be yourself. I work with children, teens, adults, couples, and families. ¡Hablo español!
(310) 907-9456 View (310) 907-9456
Photo of Melissa Gentry, PsyD, CCHt, MA, CTE, Psychological Associate
Melissa Gentry
Psychological Associate, PsyD, CCHt, MA, CTE
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
Feeling stressed & overwhelmed? Seeking balance & peace of mind? I am dedicated to assisting clients in finding balance & acquiring emotional regulation tools to navigate their fast-paced lives, so that they can accomplish their goals & live the life of their dreams. I have supported clients with anxiety, ADHD, panic, depression, bipolar, stress, relationships, divorce, self-esteem, trauma, codependency, sexual concerns, weight loss, & addictions. Therapeutic support & resources await. All ages are welcome. Let's collaborate & grow.
Feeling stressed & overwhelmed? Seeking balance & peace of mind? I am dedicated to assisting clients in finding balance & acquiring emotional regulation tools to navigate their fast-paced lives, so that they can accomplish their goals & live the life of their dreams. I have supported clients with anxiety, ADHD, panic, depression, bipolar, stress, relationships, divorce, self-esteem, trauma, codependency, sexual concerns, weight loss, & addictions. Therapeutic support & resources await. All ages are welcome. Let's collaborate & grow.
(424) 346-0977 View (424) 346-0977
Photo of Martin C Novell, MA, MS, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Martin C Novell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
West Los Angeles, CA 90025
At this point ADD, Bipolar Disorder, OCD are disorders that need to be managed so we can lessen consequences.
You will not experience the silent treatment. I am a board certified psychotherapist providing evidence based skills made for individuals and couples. We can develop a plan to improve relationships, difficult situations, depression, anxiety, and career issues. It is now known what makes a successful relationship. Through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and research based on John Gottman, couples can ease into conversations and move their discussions from disappointment to growth. Individuals, couples can gain the skills to re-position their thoughts and feelings to create a better place for themselves in this world.
At this point ADD, Bipolar Disorder, OCD are disorders that need to be managed so we can lessen consequences.
You will not experience the silent treatment. I am a board certified psychotherapist providing evidence based skills made for individuals and couples. We can develop a plan to improve relationships, difficult situations, depression, anxiety, and career issues. It is now known what makes a successful relationship. Through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and research based on John Gottman, couples can ease into conversations and move their discussions from disappointment to growth. Individuals, couples can gain the skills to re-position their thoughts and feelings to create a better place for themselves in this world.
(424) 254-5179 View (424) 254-5179
Photo of Kate Balestrieri, PsyD, PACT, CST, CSAT-S, EMDR, Psychologist
Kate Balestrieri
Psychologist, PsyD, PACT, CST, CSAT-S, EMDR
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Beverly Hills, CA 90212
"In any given moment we have two options: to step forward into growth or to step back into safety." - Abraham Maslow. Deciding to make changes in one's life takes courage, and you have taken the first step! My goal is to empower you to find relief from distress and to help you grow in concert with your goals. I specialize in treating a variety of concerns, such as posttraumatic stress disorder, addiction (substance and behavioral), eating disorders, body image issues, bipolar disorder, depression, and anxiety, as well as difficulties with anger management, relationships, interpersonal communication, recovery and relapse prevention.
"In any given moment we have two options: to step forward into growth or to step back into safety." - Abraham Maslow. Deciding to make changes in one's life takes courage, and you have taken the first step! My goal is to empower you to find relief from distress and to help you grow in concert with your goals. I specialize in treating a variety of concerns, such as posttraumatic stress disorder, addiction (substance and behavioral), eating disorders, body image issues, bipolar disorder, depression, and anxiety, as well as difficulties with anger management, relationships, interpersonal communication, recovery and relapse prevention.
(424) 295-7390 View (424) 295-7390
Photo of Rufina Sandoval, MSW,  LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rufina Sandoval
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90048
Rufina is passionate about addressing midlife and later life transitions, grief, and health psychology. She specializes in working with clients dealing with bipolar disorder, obsessivecompulsive disorder, and postpartum depression/anxiety. Her extensive experience in couples and family therapy enables her to assist clients in improving their relationships and communication skills, fostering a more harmonious family dynamic.
Rufina is passionate about addressing midlife and later life transitions, grief, and health psychology. She specializes in working with clients dealing with bipolar disorder, obsessivecompulsive disorder, and postpartum depression/anxiety. Her extensive experience in couples and family therapy enables her to assist clients in improving their relationships and communication skills, fostering a more harmonious family dynamic.
(323) 924-3294 View (323) 924-3294
Photo of Sharon S Dunas, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sharon S Dunas
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90024
When mental illness strikes a family, it is as if 'someone threw a hand grenade into the family.' I can help you deal with your family member with a brain disorder. Let me help you learn to cope and advocate for your relative with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, depression with psychotic features, panic attacks, obsessive compulsive disorder and borderline personality disorder. You deserve a life even though your relative has a brain disorder. I am President of the National Alliance on Mental Illness for Westside Los Angeles. Check out what we can offer you: website www.namila.org
When mental illness strikes a family, it is as if 'someone threw a hand grenade into the family.' I can help you deal with your family member with a brain disorder. Let me help you learn to cope and advocate for your relative with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, depression with psychotic features, panic attacks, obsessive compulsive disorder and borderline personality disorder. You deserve a life even though your relative has a brain disorder. I am President of the National Alliance on Mental Illness for Westside Los Angeles. Check out what we can offer you: website www.namila.org
(310) 207-3505 View (310) 207-3505
Photo of Dr. Cassidy Blair - Blair Wellness Group, A Professional Psych Corp., MA, PsyD, Psychologist
Blair Wellness Group, A Professional Psych Corp.
Psychologist, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
Beverly Hills, CA 90212
We specialize in treatment of Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar D/O, Addictions, Trauma, Intimacy and Relationship Issues, Eating D/O, Life Coaching and Performance Coaching.
We Offer Conceirge Psychology to Professionals Our goal is to help you create lasting change by using Evidenced- Based Treatment Models to treat Mood Disorders, Personality Disorders, Addictions, and Traumas. By focusing on high quality care and tailored treatment plans in an exclusive and caring environment, you will be supported to conquer challenges and gain mastery in your life and relationships. We offer Comprehensive Psychological Care and Performance Coaching exclusively customized to meet the Clinical needs and life challenges of Professional Men.
We specialize in treatment of Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar D/O, Addictions, Trauma, Intimacy and Relationship Issues, Eating D/O, Life Coaching and Performance Coaching.
We Offer Conceirge Psychology to Professionals Our goal is to help you create lasting change by using Evidenced- Based Treatment Models to treat Mood Disorders, Personality Disorders, Addictions, and Traumas. By focusing on high quality care and tailored treatment plans in an exclusive and caring environment, you will be supported to conquer challenges and gain mastery in your life and relationships. We offer Comprehensive Psychological Care and Performance Coaching exclusively customized to meet the Clinical needs and life challenges of Professional Men.
(424) 888-6124 View (424) 888-6124
Photo of Danielle DiOrio, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Danielle DiOrio
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90025
I am a licensed psychotherapist (LMFT) who believes in personalized and holistic care. My experience includes treating a variety of issues such as: depression, anxiety, behavioral disorders, relational problems, relationship difficulties, bipolar disorder, trauma, psychosis, substance abuse, as well as adjustment to phase of life dynamics, and issues affecting blended families. I specialize in the treatment of adolescents, young adults, individuals and families and have provided clinical direction for several residential and intensive outpatient treatment programs.
I am a licensed psychotherapist (LMFT) who believes in personalized and holistic care. My experience includes treating a variety of issues such as: depression, anxiety, behavioral disorders, relational problems, relationship difficulties, bipolar disorder, trauma, psychosis, substance abuse, as well as adjustment to phase of life dynamics, and issues affecting blended families. I specialize in the treatment of adolescents, young adults, individuals and families and have provided clinical direction for several residential and intensive outpatient treatment programs.
(610) 624-8354 View (610) 624-8354
Photo of Ron Shtainman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ron Shtainman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90034  (Online Only)
I have worked with multiple populations in a variety of settings, including transitional-aged youth, adults, older adults, and families. I specialize in treating complex mental health issues including depression, stress and anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, and addiction. I believe in using a whole-person and trauma-informed approach, and I am passionate about the power of resilience and recovery.
I have worked with multiple populations in a variety of settings, including transitional-aged youth, adults, older adults, and families. I specialize in treating complex mental health issues including depression, stress and anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, and addiction. I believe in using a whole-person and trauma-informed approach, and I am passionate about the power of resilience and recovery.
(626) 322-2806 View (626) 322-2806
Photo of Gerald P Perman - Gerald P. Perman, M.D., MD
Gerald P. Perman, M.D.
MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beverly Hills, CA 90211  (Online Only)
I specialize in the treatment of adults and college students who are experiencing depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, alcohol and substance abuse, bipolar disorder, adult ADD, sexual problems, interpersonal, academic and occupational difficulties among other problems.
My psychiatric practice is 100% virtual on Zoom with medical licenses in California, DC, MD, VA, NY, NJ, and CA. I have been in the private practice of psychodynamic psychiatry for over three decades. I provide a safe, warm and trusting environment in which you can discuss your deepest concerns and you can feel that you are being listened to and truly heard. I prescribe medication when indicated as an adjunt to your psychotherapy. I only prescribed medication to patients who are also meeting with me in psychotherapy. I am out-of-network with all insurance companies, and I am opted-out of Medicare and Medicaid.
I specialize in the treatment of adults and college students who are experiencing depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, alcohol and substance abuse, bipolar disorder, adult ADD, sexual problems, interpersonal, academic and occupational difficulties among other problems.
My psychiatric practice is 100% virtual on Zoom with medical licenses in California, DC, MD, VA, NY, NJ, and CA. I have been in the private practice of psychodynamic psychiatry for over three decades. I provide a safe, warm and trusting environment in which you can discuss your deepest concerns and you can feel that you are being listened to and truly heard. I prescribe medication when indicated as an adjunt to your psychotherapy. I only prescribed medication to patients who are also meeting with me in psychotherapy. I am out-of-network with all insurance companies, and I am opted-out of Medicare and Medicaid.
(323) 553-4442 View (323) 553-4442
Photo of Jeff Eamer, MA, LMFT, CRT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jeff Eamer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CRT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90025
Personally, I have a diagnosis of Bipolar Disorder.
Choosing a therapist is one of the most important decisions you’ll ever make. It is truly a leap of faith. So in our first consultation phone call I will spend as much time as you need to share you story, answer any questions you may have of the process, of me, and the nature of the journey we will take together.
Personally, I have a diagnosis of Bipolar Disorder.
Choosing a therapist is one of the most important decisions you’ll ever make. It is truly a leap of faith. So in our first consultation phone call I will spend as much time as you need to share you story, answer any questions you may have of the process, of me, and the nature of the journey we will take together.
(424) 543-3354 View (424) 543-3354
Photo of Nima Nouri, PsyD, MA, Psychologist
Nima Nouri
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
Beverly Hills, CA 90212
As a result of my academic and clinical history, I have become most proficient in treatment of both clinical disorders such as psychosis, manic depression, eating disorders, and personality disorders co-occurring with substance abuse and associated forensic issues that may generalize to children and older adults.
An ideal client for my treatment mode would be someone who is either motivated for refinement of spirit, or would possess enough intelligence and wisdom to be able to gain enough insight into the nature of their condition so that they would embrace expert intervention with a degree of trust in harmony with adequate judgment into the need for treatment. He or she may engage in therapy alone, but where family history of emotional challenges exist, they would consider family therapy if all parties consent.
As a result of my academic and clinical history, I have become most proficient in treatment of both clinical disorders such as psychosis, manic depression, eating disorders, and personality disorders co-occurring with substance abuse and associated forensic issues that may generalize to children and older adults.
An ideal client for my treatment mode would be someone who is either motivated for refinement of spirit, or would possess enough intelligence and wisdom to be able to gain enough insight into the nature of their condition so that they would embrace expert intervention with a degree of trust in harmony with adequate judgment into the need for treatment. He or she may engage in therapy alone, but where family history of emotional challenges exist, they would consider family therapy if all parties consent.
(213) 223-7264 View (213) 223-7264
Photo of Antonia Hickey, PsyD, Psychologist
Antonia Hickey
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025  (Online Only)
I work with adults with depression, anxiety, bipolar dx, trauma hx, relational issues, and adjustment issues.
I believe that therapy is an individual, unique, and empowered process for each client that allows them to recognize their inner strengths and workings. Each client has their own answers that they are searching for and struggles they are trying to overcome in their daily life. During the process of therapy, I strive to help clients develop an increased sense of autonomy and purpose in order to create movement toward these answers. In succession, I help clients develop healthy ways of coping with stressors, as life is inevitably filled with difficulties and obstacles.
I work with adults with depression, anxiety, bipolar dx, trauma hx, relational issues, and adjustment issues.
I believe that therapy is an individual, unique, and empowered process for each client that allows them to recognize their inner strengths and workings. Each client has their own answers that they are searching for and struggles they are trying to overcome in their daily life. During the process of therapy, I strive to help clients develop an increased sense of autonomy and purpose in order to create movement toward these answers. In succession, I help clients develop healthy ways of coping with stressors, as life is inevitably filled with difficulties and obstacles.
(323) 766-6717 View (323) 766-6717
Photo of Danielle Keenan-Miller, PhD, Psychologist
Danielle Keenan-Miller
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025
My areas of specialty include depression, bipolar disorder, infertility, binge eating, and anxiety, as well as problems related to body image, stressful life transitions, and perfectionism.
I believe that therapy should be a collaborative process that helps you to accomplish the goals that are most meaningful to you. My practice focuses on using scientifically supported and effective treatments that help adults and adolescents to both feel better and function better in their everyday lives.
My areas of specialty include depression, bipolar disorder, infertility, binge eating, and anxiety, as well as problems related to body image, stressful life transitions, and perfectionism.
I believe that therapy should be a collaborative process that helps you to accomplish the goals that are most meaningful to you. My practice focuses on using scientifically supported and effective treatments that help adults and adolescents to both feel better and function better in their everyday lives.
(310) 564-2572 View (310) 564-2572

See more therapy options for Century City

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.