Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Avondale Estates, GA

Photo of Brenda Hailey, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Brenda Hailey
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
Avondale Estates, GA 30002
Brenda Hailey, Therapist Brenda Hailey obtained her master's degree from Mercer University in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Her previous experience includes working at Metro Atlanta Recovery Residences. Brenda sees adolescents and adults individually as well as groups. She enjoys working with a wide range of behavioral health issues including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders, and substance use disorders.
Brenda Hailey, Therapist Brenda Hailey obtained her master's degree from Mercer University in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Her previous experience includes working at Metro Atlanta Recovery Residences. Brenda sees adolescents and adults individually as well as groups. She enjoys working with a wide range of behavioral health issues including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders, and substance use disorders.
(470) 946-6577 View (470) 946-6577
Photo of Colleen Dougherty, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Colleen Dougherty
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Avondale Estates, GA 30002
As a therapist, I hope to provide my clients with a place where they feel seen, heard and understood. My ultimate goal is to help others navigate the challenges of life and work towards helping them to achieve their best possible quality of life. I use an integrative approach, tailoring interventions towards the needs of each individual I work with. After being in the mental health field for over 25 years, I have experience in treating trauma, ADHD, depression, anxiety, panic disorder, bipolar disorder, self harming behavior, grief and adjustment to life transitions. I enjoy working with diverse clients ranging in age from 15 to 80.
As a therapist, I hope to provide my clients with a place where they feel seen, heard and understood. My ultimate goal is to help others navigate the challenges of life and work towards helping them to achieve their best possible quality of life. I use an integrative approach, tailoring interventions towards the needs of each individual I work with. After being in the mental health field for over 25 years, I have experience in treating trauma, ADHD, depression, anxiety, panic disorder, bipolar disorder, self harming behavior, grief and adjustment to life transitions. I enjoy working with diverse clients ranging in age from 15 to 80.
(404) 383-8816 View (404) 383-8816
Photo of Meredith L Albert, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Meredith L Albert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Avondale Estates, GA 30002
Psychotherapy is my second career. I come from a rich background in entrepreneurship and business management which makes me more focused on goal-setting that underpins my action-oriented approach. I work collaboratively with clients to define actionable goals and identify issues (conscious and unconscious) that act as barriers to long term psycho-emotional health. Philosophically, I embrace the idea that individuals often have the answers they seek to difficult questions. The real challenge may be finding the stillness to settle inner conflicts or competing thoughts (expectations, judgments, etc.) long enough to uncover personal truths.
Psychotherapy is my second career. I come from a rich background in entrepreneurship and business management which makes me more focused on goal-setting that underpins my action-oriented approach. I work collaboratively with clients to define actionable goals and identify issues (conscious and unconscious) that act as barriers to long term psycho-emotional health. Philosophically, I embrace the idea that individuals often have the answers they seek to difficult questions. The real challenge may be finding the stillness to settle inner conflicts or competing thoughts (expectations, judgments, etc.) long enough to uncover personal truths.
(404) 334-2423 View (404) 334-2423
Photo of Carol Lewis, LPC, Counselor
Carol Lewis
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Avondale Estates, GA 30002
I have been in the mental health field for over 25 years and a licensed professional counselor for 9 years. I believe a person has the answers to whatever it is that concerns them about themselves, but they may not have identified the question. Once the question or the why has been identified a person begins adapting to resolve it. I use tools from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and mindfulness exercises to assist my clients in living an intentional life.
I have been in the mental health field for over 25 years and a licensed professional counselor for 9 years. I believe a person has the answers to whatever it is that concerns them about themselves, but they may not have identified the question. Once the question or the why has been identified a person begins adapting to resolve it. I use tools from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and mindfulness exercises to assist my clients in living an intentional life.
(470) 660-4794 View (470) 660-4794
Photo of Lenissa Barbosa, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lenissa Barbosa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Avondale Estates, GA 30002
Lenissa has a bachelor's degree in Clinical Psychology and had completed her master's degree in Clinical Social Work at the Smith College School for Social Work. Moreover, she as a post-graduate training in Psychoanalysis and Mental Health. Lenissa is also a certified Play Therapist. Lenissa is a committed person, with a proactive and engaging clinical approach. She believes that her learned listening skills combined with her intrinsic empathetic qualities, collaborate to establish a truly and deep connection with her clients.
Lenissa has a bachelor's degree in Clinical Psychology and had completed her master's degree in Clinical Social Work at the Smith College School for Social Work. Moreover, she as a post-graduate training in Psychoanalysis and Mental Health. Lenissa is also a certified Play Therapist. Lenissa is a committed person, with a proactive and engaging clinical approach. She believes that her learned listening skills combined with her intrinsic empathetic qualities, collaborate to establish a truly and deep connection with her clients.
(470) 865-5343 View (470) 865-5343
Photo of Rashida Whitley, APC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Rashida Whitley
Pre-Licensed Professional, APC
Verified Verified
Avondale Estates, GA 30002
Rashida Whitley is a Licensed Associate Professional Counselor in Georgia who has been practicing since 2014. She studied at University of Kentucky and Georgia State. Rashida is trained in DBT and has used the technique to assist clients with borderline personality disorder. She has also been trained in TF CBT and has been able to treat adults and children coping with trauma. Rashida has experience treating adults and children with ADHD, mood disorders, and anxiety. Lastly, she has provided treatment focusing on coping with societal issues, gender identity, and gender-based issues.
Rashida Whitley is a Licensed Associate Professional Counselor in Georgia who has been practicing since 2014. She studied at University of Kentucky and Georgia State. Rashida is trained in DBT and has used the technique to assist clients with borderline personality disorder. She has also been trained in TF CBT and has been able to treat adults and children coping with trauma. Rashida has experience treating adults and children with ADHD, mood disorders, and anxiety. Lastly, she has provided treatment focusing on coping with societal issues, gender identity, and gender-based issues.
(404) 737-7806 View (404) 737-7806
Photo of Candice R Scurry, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Candice R Scurry
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Avondale Estates, GA 30002
Are you struggling with life emotionally? I am here to help. Are you struggling with codependency? Are you in college and in need of guidance? Are you an older parent with younger children and need to balance what life throws at you? Are you looking for peace in the chaos? Are you a high school student or athlete trying to navigate your future? I can help you with your treatment goals.
Are you struggling with life emotionally? I am here to help. Are you struggling with codependency? Are you in college and in need of guidance? Are you an older parent with younger children and need to balance what life throws at you? Are you looking for peace in the chaos? Are you a high school student or athlete trying to navigate your future? I can help you with your treatment goals.
(281) 612-6209 View (281) 612-6209
Photo of Melissa Dickinson, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Melissa Dickinson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Avondale Estates, GA 30002
Therapy is a chance to cultivate a healthy relationship with a professional who will allow you to grow and explore new ways of being. I work with you to create a safe space, so that we can make real progress on the issues that matter to you.
Therapy is a chance to cultivate a healthy relationship with a professional who will allow you to grow and explore new ways of being. I work with you to create a safe space, so that we can make real progress on the issues that matter to you.
(706) 508-4993 View (706) 508-4993
Photo of Claudia Elizee-Moore, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Claudia Elizee-Moore
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Avondale Estates, GA 30002  (Online Only)
Claudia Elizee-Moore, LPC, LMHC, CPCS, is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Georgia and a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Florida, who currently practices in Georgia. Claudia has a Master of Science degree in Mental Health Counseling, St. Thomas University, 1997. Claudia is also certified as a Paracletos Counseling Specialist and implements Christian Counseling in treatment plans, if requested. Claudia has over two decades of experience in the behavioral health field. A substantial amount of this experience has focused on working with significantly traumatized children in the foster care system.
Claudia Elizee-Moore, LPC, LMHC, CPCS, is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Georgia and a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Florida, who currently practices in Georgia. Claudia has a Master of Science degree in Mental Health Counseling, St. Thomas University, 1997. Claudia is also certified as a Paracletos Counseling Specialist and implements Christian Counseling in treatment plans, if requested. Claudia has over two decades of experience in the behavioral health field. A substantial amount of this experience has focused on working with significantly traumatized children in the foster care system.
(470) 329-7931 View (470) 329-7931
Photo of Lakeah White, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lakeah White
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Avondale Estates, GA 30002  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with approximately 12 years of experience with working with children, adults, families, and couples. I am proud to have an all-inclusive practice that serves clients and families of varying ethnicities, sexual orientations, socio-economic status, and other cultural backgrounds. I take pride in providing a comfortable and welcoming (yet always professional) environment where clients are encouraged to be open and honest. My primary goal is to help my clients to uncover their innate ability to adapt and thrive despite any challenges they may face.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with approximately 12 years of experience with working with children, adults, families, and couples. I am proud to have an all-inclusive practice that serves clients and families of varying ethnicities, sexual orientations, socio-economic status, and other cultural backgrounds. I take pride in providing a comfortable and welcoming (yet always professional) environment where clients are encouraged to be open and honest. My primary goal is to help my clients to uncover their innate ability to adapt and thrive despite any challenges they may face.
(678) 607-9804 View (678) 607-9804
Photo of Dr. Ashley Weaver, PhD, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Dr. Ashley Weaver
Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Avondale Estates, GA 30002  (Online Only)
I only see clients via telehealth. We all face difficult times in our life that test our foundations. There are times that we may face situations that are disappointing, frustrating, confusing, overwhelming, or painful. This is when we find ourselves struggling. You are not alone! We can navigate through these struggles together by working together via a collaborative therapeutic relationship. I am here to aid in your healing journey. Hello, I am Dr. Ashley Weaver. I have a diverse background working with a variety people. I have worked in the corporate structure as well as higher education.
I only see clients via telehealth. We all face difficult times in our life that test our foundations. There are times that we may face situations that are disappointing, frustrating, confusing, overwhelming, or painful. This is when we find ourselves struggling. You are not alone! We can navigate through these struggles together by working together via a collaborative therapeutic relationship. I am here to aid in your healing journey. Hello, I am Dr. Ashley Weaver. I have a diverse background working with a variety people. I have worked in the corporate structure as well as higher education.
(470) 837-5447 View (470) 837-5447
Photo of Sarah Browning, LAPC, CRC, NCC, Counselor
Sarah Browning
Counselor, LAPC, CRC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Avondale Estates, GA 30002
Drawing upon my extensive background in psychology and my passion for holistic wellness, I specialize in guiding adolescents, young adults, and women through the intricate process of healing their relationship with both their minds and bodies. My practice is deeply rooted in the belief that understanding early childhood experiences and attachment styles is pivotal in shaping the paths we tread as adults. My population focus is adolescents, young adults, and women. My theoretical modalities include client-centered, attachment theory, early childhood experiences, Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy all with a trauma-informed lens.
Drawing upon my extensive background in psychology and my passion for holistic wellness, I specialize in guiding adolescents, young adults, and women through the intricate process of healing their relationship with both their minds and bodies. My practice is deeply rooted in the belief that understanding early childhood experiences and attachment styles is pivotal in shaping the paths we tread as adults. My population focus is adolescents, young adults, and women. My theoretical modalities include client-centered, attachment theory, early childhood experiences, Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy all with a trauma-informed lens.
(404) 495-5357 View (404) 495-5357
Photo of Stacie Chisolm Cook, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stacie Chisolm Cook
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Avondale Estates, GA 30002
Waitlist for new clients
Hello, and thank you for taking the time to visit my profile. I believe in the power of a safe and trusting therapeutic relationship. It is within this relationship that growth and change occur. I view my role in the therapeutic relationship as the coach. I am here to coach you through life's challenges and problems as well as celebrate along with you in your accomplishments and victories. I offer guidance and support in addition to knowledge, experience, skill and a listening ear. I utilize a variety of treatment modalities which include DBT, CBT, solution focused, and family systems.
Hello, and thank you for taking the time to visit my profile. I believe in the power of a safe and trusting therapeutic relationship. It is within this relationship that growth and change occur. I view my role in the therapeutic relationship as the coach. I am here to coach you through life's challenges and problems as well as celebrate along with you in your accomplishments and victories. I offer guidance and support in addition to knowledge, experience, skill and a listening ear. I utilize a variety of treatment modalities which include DBT, CBT, solution focused, and family systems.
(404) 438-2347 View (404) 438-2347
Photo of Bertrina Olivia West Al-Mahdi, PhD, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bertrina Olivia West Al-Mahdi
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Avondale Estates, GA 30002
Life is often tough & can be very stressful & overwhelming. Challenges are often thrown our way & we struggle with finding ways to cope. Hi, my name is Dr. O, I am a U. S. Navy veteran with a doctorate degree in International Psychologist. I am the Clinical Director of Out of the Box, CCC, a mom, a wife, & I'm here to help. I understand the difficulties of navigating the challenges of life while trying to hold it all together. I specialize in working with individuals, families, couples, adolescents, and children facing emotional, cognitive, & social challenges as a result of trauma. When most people think about trauma, they usually
Life is often tough & can be very stressful & overwhelming. Challenges are often thrown our way & we struggle with finding ways to cope. Hi, my name is Dr. O, I am a U. S. Navy veteran with a doctorate degree in International Psychologist. I am the Clinical Director of Out of the Box, CCC, a mom, a wife, & I'm here to help. I understand the difficulties of navigating the challenges of life while trying to hold it all together. I specialize in working with individuals, families, couples, adolescents, and children facing emotional, cognitive, & social challenges as a result of trauma. When most people think about trauma, they usually
(404) 800-3147 View (404) 800-3147
Photo of Inas S Bilal - Seeds of New Beginnings Mental Health Agency, ICADC
Seeds of New Beginnings Mental Health Agency
ICADC
Verified Verified
Avondale Estates, GA 30002
Seeds of New Beginnings Mental Health Agency consist of skilled and credentialed professionals who assist individuals and families dealing with depression, grief, anxiety, stress, and anger management issues. We offer couple's therapy, marriage therapy, and substance use help therapy including harm reduction strategies. Most of our clients have been dealing with increased anxiety due to the result of the pandemic and loss of family members. We also have clients who endured bullying which has impacted their self-confidence and self-esteem. Our specialist has served the population struggling with addiction to alcohol and drug use.
Seeds of New Beginnings Mental Health Agency consist of skilled and credentialed professionals who assist individuals and families dealing with depression, grief, anxiety, stress, and anger management issues. We offer couple's therapy, marriage therapy, and substance use help therapy including harm reduction strategies. Most of our clients have been dealing with increased anxiety due to the result of the pandemic and loss of family members. We also have clients who endured bullying which has impacted their self-confidence and self-esteem. Our specialist has served the population struggling with addiction to alcohol and drug use.
(678) 562-6392 View (678) 562-6392

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Nathan Mascaro, PhD, ABPP, Psychologist
Nathan Mascaro
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30030
I am an ABPP certified psychologist providing evidence-based psychotherapy to people ages 17+. Having practiced in Georgia since 2007 when I completed my postdoctoral fellowship in Clinical Psychology at Emory University, I've worked in private practice and hospital settings for 15+ years treating depression, anxiety (including OCD, panic, phobias, and chronic worry/GAD), PTSD and other trauma or grief related issues, bipolar disorder, insomnia, and issues related to meaning/purpose and existential distress. I work with individuals from late adolescence through older adulthood across the continua of gender, ethnicity, and faith.
I am an ABPP certified psychologist providing evidence-based psychotherapy to people ages 17+. Having practiced in Georgia since 2007 when I completed my postdoctoral fellowship in Clinical Psychology at Emory University, I've worked in private practice and hospital settings for 15+ years treating depression, anxiety (including OCD, panic, phobias, and chronic worry/GAD), PTSD and other trauma or grief related issues, bipolar disorder, insomnia, and issues related to meaning/purpose and existential distress. I work with individuals from late adolescence through older adulthood across the continua of gender, ethnicity, and faith.
(404) 390-4843 View (404) 390-4843
Photo of Sydney Calloway, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Sydney Calloway
Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30030
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a National Certified Counselor. I graduated from Mercer University with a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. After 5 years of working in community mental health both at the inpatient and outpatient levels I have gained invaluable experience working with individuals from multicultural backgrounds. My experience includes treating individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, grief, postpartum, racial issues, substance abuse, and more.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a National Certified Counselor. I graduated from Mercer University with a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. After 5 years of working in community mental health both at the inpatient and outpatient levels I have gained invaluable experience working with individuals from multicultural backgrounds. My experience includes treating individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, grief, postpartum, racial issues, substance abuse, and more.
(404) 948-3194 View (404) 948-3194
Photo of Kelli C McLeod-Roy, LPC, NCC, CPCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kelli C McLeod-Roy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CPCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30033
Waitlist for new clients
, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorders), Young adult issues, Couples' Issues, Family Issues, LGBT Issues, and Poly Issues.
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, general sense of emptiness or dissatisfaction? Are you and your partner not getting along as well as you would like? Are you having problems with alcohol or other substances? If so, let's set up some counseling for you to help decrease the negative and increase the positive in your life. My approach is empathic and caring and of a cognitive behavioral orientation. I will help you identify and develop the skills and insights you need to experience success over your problems and to have more satisfaction in your life and relationships.
, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorders), Young adult issues, Couples' Issues, Family Issues, LGBT Issues, and Poly Issues.
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, general sense of emptiness or dissatisfaction? Are you and your partner not getting along as well as you would like? Are you having problems with alcohol or other substances? If so, let's set up some counseling for you to help decrease the negative and increase the positive in your life. My approach is empathic and caring and of a cognitive behavioral orientation. I will help you identify and develop the skills and insights you need to experience success over your problems and to have more satisfaction in your life and relationships.
(678) 329-8483 View (678) 329-8483
Photo of Heather V Youngblood - Perimeter Therapy Associates, LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Perimeter Therapy Associates, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30030
We have clinicians that specialize in Trauma, Substance Abuse, Couples Counseling, Maternal Mental Health, Play Therapy, Sex Therapy, LGBT community, Autism Spectrum, Developmental Disabilities, Parenting Issues, BiPolar Disorder, Hypnotherapy, Cancer Diagnosis, and Elder Issues.
Perimeter Therapy Associates provides psychological services for children, adolescents, adults, older adults, couples, and families experiencing life transitions, relationship difficulties, depression, post partum depression, anxiety, grief, parenting concerns and other mental health issues. Our approach to therapy is tailored to the unique needs of each client, facilitating positive change in a warm and caring environment. We assist clients in making fundamental changes in the way they think and act thereby improving their ability to solve problems, cope and communicate effectively. We also provide supervision for LAPC's working toward LPC licensure.
We have clinicians that specialize in Trauma, Substance Abuse, Couples Counseling, Maternal Mental Health, Play Therapy, Sex Therapy, LGBT community, Autism Spectrum, Developmental Disabilities, Parenting Issues, BiPolar Disorder, Hypnotherapy, Cancer Diagnosis, and Elder Issues.
Perimeter Therapy Associates provides psychological services for children, adolescents, adults, older adults, couples, and families experiencing life transitions, relationship difficulties, depression, post partum depression, anxiety, grief, parenting concerns and other mental health issues. Our approach to therapy is tailored to the unique needs of each client, facilitating positive change in a warm and caring environment. We assist clients in making fundamental changes in the way they think and act thereby improving their ability to solve problems, cope and communicate effectively. We also provide supervision for LAPC's working toward LPC licensure.
(678) 824-2031 View (678) 824-2031
Photo of Hannah Boos, MA, LPC, NCC, CPTT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Hannah Boos
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, CPTT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30033
With the hope of supporting those navigating challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem, identity development, life transitions, bipolar disorder, spirituality, deconstruction/reconstruction, and healing from infidelity and sexual betrayal.
Hi and thank you for visiting my profile. Your decision to explore counseling reflects courage and vulnerability, and I'm honored you're here. I'm dedicated to supporting individuals (16+) facing challenges like anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem, identity development, life transitions, and spirituality. Additionally, I'm passionate about aiding those recovering from infidelity and sexual betrayal. My primary aim is to create a safe, non-judgmental space where your healing journey can begin, fostering progress and personal growth. Let's embark on this transformative journey together!
With the hope of supporting those navigating challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem, identity development, life transitions, bipolar disorder, spirituality, deconstruction/reconstruction, and healing from infidelity and sexual betrayal.
Hi and thank you for visiting my profile. Your decision to explore counseling reflects courage and vulnerability, and I'm honored you're here. I'm dedicated to supporting individuals (16+) facing challenges like anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem, identity development, life transitions, and spirituality. Additionally, I'm passionate about aiding those recovering from infidelity and sexual betrayal. My primary aim is to create a safe, non-judgmental space where your healing journey can begin, fostering progress and personal growth. Let's embark on this transformative journey together!
(404) 390-4987 View (404) 390-4987

See more therapy options for Avondale Estates

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.