Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Cordele, GA

Photo of Benjamin Gatliff - Triad Psych, pc, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Triad Psych, pc
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Cordele, GA 31015
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 22 years' experience with mental health/substance abuse treatment. I have worked in community mental health centers, prisons, jails, and mental hospitals. I have also volunteered with counseling, hospice, Salvation Army, and food banks. I create a safe and non-judgmental environment to facilitate personal change, insight, and healing.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 22 years' experience with mental health/substance abuse treatment. I have worked in community mental health centers, prisons, jails, and mental hospitals. I have also volunteered with counseling, hospice, Salvation Army, and food banks. I create a safe and non-judgmental environment to facilitate personal change, insight, and healing.
(229) 280-5170 View (229) 280-5170
Photo of Benjamin Gatliff - Acacia Life Therapy, LPC, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Acacia Life Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Cordele, GA 31015  (Online Only)
Now serving Georgia and Florida. At Acacia Life Therapy, our mission is to empower individuals to achieve mental and emotional longevity through expert, compassionate care. Drawing inspiration from the Acacia tree, revered in ancient Egypt as a symbol of resilience, protection, enlightenment, and renewal. Embodying the timeless qualities attributed to this majestic tree, our commitment is unwavering towards fostering personal growth and fortitude, enabling each individual not merely to withstand the trials of existence but to flourish in their wake.
Now serving Georgia and Florida. At Acacia Life Therapy, our mission is to empower individuals to achieve mental and emotional longevity through expert, compassionate care. Drawing inspiration from the Acacia tree, revered in ancient Egypt as a symbol of resilience, protection, enlightenment, and renewal. Embodying the timeless qualities attributed to this majestic tree, our commitment is unwavering towards fostering personal growth and fortitude, enabling each individual not merely to withstand the trials of existence but to flourish in their wake.
(640) 222-0013 View (640) 222-0013
Photo of Holly Jones, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Holly Jones
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Cordele, GA 31015  (Online Only)
My passion is to empower individuals to overcome life’s obstacles and become their best version of themselves. I have 8 years of experience in working with individuals suffering from severe mental illness, as well as those dealing with situational stressors. I have significant experience in treating depression, anxiety, relationship issues, low self-esteem, substance abuse, and trauma.
My passion is to empower individuals to overcome life’s obstacles and become their best version of themselves. I have 8 years of experience in working with individuals suffering from severe mental illness, as well as those dealing with situational stressors. I have significant experience in treating depression, anxiety, relationship issues, low self-esteem, substance abuse, and trauma.
(229) 218-2559 View (229) 218-2559

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Marylynn M P Mohr, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Marylynn M P Mohr
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Vienna, GA 31092
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Georgia with eight years of experience. I work with a wide array of clients; from survivors of trauma to those struggling with anxiety, coping skills, depression, obsessive-compulsive (OCD), stress, trauma and PTSD, adolescents/teens, dual diagnosis, life transitions, self-esteem, and self-harming. I utilize a mix of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP). I also offer parenting assistance to parents struggling with their children's behaviors. I believe the whole family benefits from progress in therapy.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Georgia with eight years of experience. I work with a wide array of clients; from survivors of trauma to those struggling with anxiety, coping skills, depression, obsessive-compulsive (OCD), stress, trauma and PTSD, adolescents/teens, dual diagnosis, life transitions, self-esteem, and self-harming. I utilize a mix of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP). I also offer parenting assistance to parents struggling with their children's behaviors. I believe the whole family benefits from progress in therapy.
(770) 525-8628 View (770) 525-8628

Online Therapists

Photo of Lynn Burke Lynn Burke, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lynn Burke Lynn Burke
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Macon, GA 31210
I'm a licensed professional counselor and a master's addiction counselor with over 20 years in the field. I focus on depression, anxiety, loss, addiction, bipolar disorder, and relationship problems. I use a mix of motivational interviewing, dialectical behavioral therapy, mindfulness, cognitive processing therapy, pastoral counseling, and trauma-informed care. I've worked with students, professors, prisoners, addicts, survivors, vets, and parents, to name just a few. I'm confident we can find common ground to work together.
I'm a licensed professional counselor and a master's addiction counselor with over 20 years in the field. I focus on depression, anxiety, loss, addiction, bipolar disorder, and relationship problems. I use a mix of motivational interviewing, dialectical behavioral therapy, mindfulness, cognitive processing therapy, pastoral counseling, and trauma-informed care. I've worked with students, professors, prisoners, addicts, survivors, vets, and parents, to name just a few. I'm confident we can find common ground to work together.
(470) 291-2288 View (470) 291-2288
Photo of Laporshe Smith, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Laporshe Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Sylvester, GA 31791
My name is Laporshe, I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 8 years of experience. My counseling style is pretty laid-back. I have been described as supportive, caring, and compassionate. I specialize in anxiety, bipolar disorder, coping skills, depression, mood disorders, grief, impulse control disorders, dissociative disorders, and psychosis. I believe there is no “one size fits all” type of therapy, I fit my style of therapy according to the need of my patients by using integrative approaches when it is suitable for my clients. My approach often utilizes a mix of CBT and ACT for a person-centered and supportive approach.
My name is Laporshe, I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 8 years of experience. My counseling style is pretty laid-back. I have been described as supportive, caring, and compassionate. I specialize in anxiety, bipolar disorder, coping skills, depression, mood disorders, grief, impulse control disorders, dissociative disorders, and psychosis. I believe there is no “one size fits all” type of therapy, I fit my style of therapy according to the need of my patients by using integrative approaches when it is suitable for my clients. My approach often utilizes a mix of CBT and ACT for a person-centered and supportive approach.
(470) 664-2591 View (470) 664-2591
Photo of Monica Bell Callahan, MA, LPC, CLC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Monica Bell Callahan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CLC
Verified Verified
Macon, GA 31210  (Online Only)
I specialize working with Depressive Disorders, Anxiety Disorder, Individual Marital Counseling, Grief counseling, Bipolar Disorders, Family Counseling, Stress Vocational issues, Women issues and PTSD.
It is my mission to be a vessel and share the love of God with others by providing genuine compassion and concern to hurting people with a desire to rebuild and or restore their lives! We all have something in common which includes pain from the past that affects how we relate to others and/or how they relate to us. Lets work together to get to the root of the problem to reset our lives and Begin Again! I've had the privilege of working in many diverse settings including individual, marital and family counseling, and residential settings helping women to overcome the horrors of human trafficking and/or a history of sexual abuse.
I specialize working with Depressive Disorders, Anxiety Disorder, Individual Marital Counseling, Grief counseling, Bipolar Disorders, Family Counseling, Stress Vocational issues, Women issues and PTSD.
It is my mission to be a vessel and share the love of God with others by providing genuine compassion and concern to hurting people with a desire to rebuild and or restore their lives! We all have something in common which includes pain from the past that affects how we relate to others and/or how they relate to us. Lets work together to get to the root of the problem to reset our lives and Begin Again! I've had the privilege of working in many diverse settings including individual, marital and family counseling, and residential settings helping women to overcome the horrors of human trafficking and/or a history of sexual abuse.
(478) 449-0105 View (478) 449-0105
Photo of Anntoinette Briley, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Anntoinette Briley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Gray, GA 31032
Hello! My name is Anntoinette Briley and am an LPC with over 20 years of experience in the counseling profession. I have acquired a sizeable background in many areas of counseling from private practice to large organizations, and my specialty areas include Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Relationship Issues, and Life Transitions, among others. I identify with various counseling approaches depending on your specific need and my top modality is individual therapy using Gestalt as it is centered on increasing your awareness, freedom, self-direction and focus on present moment rather than your past experiences.
Hello! My name is Anntoinette Briley and am an LPC with over 20 years of experience in the counseling profession. I have acquired a sizeable background in many areas of counseling from private practice to large organizations, and my specialty areas include Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Relationship Issues, and Life Transitions, among others. I identify with various counseling approaches depending on your specific need and my top modality is individual therapy using Gestalt as it is centered on increasing your awareness, freedom, self-direction and focus on present moment rather than your past experiences.
(470) 999-6957 View (470) 999-6957
Photo of Mariesa Tinkham, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mariesa Tinkham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Columbus, GA 31907  (Online Only)
I have worked with a wide range of clinical issues including anxiety, depression, grieving, ADHD, bipolar disorder, addictions, trauma, life stress, family issues, relationship problems, and adjusting to life transitions and physical health challenges.
I am a clinical social worker licensed in both Michigan and Georgia currently offering Telehealth services. I began clinical work in Georgia with children and families in January of 2012, and continued community and school-based practice after moving to Michigan in July of 2013. I then transitioned to working in a medical center with clients of all ages in 2015 when I became a behavioral health consultant as part of an integrated care model. I have most recently been building an online counseling practice while completing a doctorate program.
I have worked with a wide range of clinical issues including anxiety, depression, grieving, ADHD, bipolar disorder, addictions, trauma, life stress, family issues, relationship problems, and adjusting to life transitions and physical health challenges.
I am a clinical social worker licensed in both Michigan and Georgia currently offering Telehealth services. I began clinical work in Georgia with children and families in January of 2012, and continued community and school-based practice after moving to Michigan in July of 2013. I then transitioned to working in a medical center with clients of all ages in 2015 when I became a behavioral health consultant as part of an integrated care model. I have most recently been building an online counseling practice while completing a doctorate program.
(706) 420-5143 View (706) 420-5143
Photo of Michelle Alden - Michelle Alden Counseling Services, MS, LPC, NCC, CAMS, II, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michelle Alden Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, CAMS, II
Verified Verified
Valdosta, GA 31605
I am a fully licensed, bilingual clinician working with a diverse population. Since 2010, I have worked with Adolescents and Children as well as with families, and groups. The populations were diverse anywhere from depression, multiple personalities, trauma victims, alcohol abuse, physical/emotional and sexual abuse, anxiety, anger management, self-mutilators, bipolar, bullying victims, OCD, conduct/Oppositional, some eating disorders, grief self-esteem to name a few.
I am a fully licensed, bilingual clinician working with a diverse population. Since 2010, I have worked with Adolescents and Children as well as with families, and groups. The populations were diverse anywhere from depression, multiple personalities, trauma victims, alcohol abuse, physical/emotional and sexual abuse, anxiety, anger management, self-mutilators, bipolar, bullying victims, OCD, conduct/Oppositional, some eating disorders, grief self-esteem to name a few.
(844) 842-2462 View (844) 842-2462
Photo of Denny Scherer, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Denny Scherer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Columbus, GA 31901  (Online Only)
My name is Denny Scherer, I have immediate openings for Virtual Appointments. I specialize in working with adults with a history trauma, PTSD, Anxiety Disorder, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, SI's, etc. If you feel stuck, haven't made progress with past therapists, I'm your guy. I have been working in the mental health field since 2000 and I look forward to empowering you to achieve your goals. I have personal experience with panic attacks, anxiety, depression, trauma and addiction so I know what it's like to go through this. I combine my personal experience, education and professional experience to help you heal and recover.
My name is Denny Scherer, I have immediate openings for Virtual Appointments. I specialize in working with adults with a history trauma, PTSD, Anxiety Disorder, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, SI's, etc. If you feel stuck, haven't made progress with past therapists, I'm your guy. I have been working in the mental health field since 2000 and I look forward to empowering you to achieve your goals. I have personal experience with panic attacks, anxiety, depression, trauma and addiction so I know what it's like to go through this. I combine my personal experience, education and professional experience to help you heal and recover.
(762) 214-2220 View (762) 214-2220
Photo of Lynn Burke Reyes, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lynn Burke Reyes
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Columbus, GA 31907
I'm a licensed professional counselor and a master's addiction counselor with over 20 years in the field. I focus on depression, anxiety, loss, addiction, bipolar disorder, and relationship problems. I use a mix of motivational interviewing, dialectical behavioral therapy, mindfulness, cognitive processing therapy, pastoral counseling, and trauma-informed care. I've worked with students, professors, prisoners, addicts, survivors, vets, and parents, to name just a few. I'm confident we can find common ground to work together.
I'm a licensed professional counselor and a master's addiction counselor with over 20 years in the field. I focus on depression, anxiety, loss, addiction, bipolar disorder, and relationship problems. I use a mix of motivational interviewing, dialectical behavioral therapy, mindfulness, cognitive processing therapy, pastoral counseling, and trauma-informed care. I've worked with students, professors, prisoners, addicts, survivors, vets, and parents, to name just a few. I'm confident we can find common ground to work together.
(470) 468-2945 View (470) 468-2945
Photo of Cheryl Lynn - Lynn's Counseling and Consulting Services,LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lynn's Counseling and Consulting Services,LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dublin, GA 31021
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who works with clients ranging in age from 5 to 100, however, will work with younger depending on need/situation. Will assess that on a case by case basis. I have experience working with those dealing with depression, anxiety, anger issues, mood disorders such as Bipolar Disorder, thought Disorders such as Schizophrenia, Dementia related disorders, and life transitions.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who works with clients ranging in age from 5 to 100, however, will work with younger depending on need/situation. Will assess that on a case by case basis. I have experience working with those dealing with depression, anxiety, anger issues, mood disorders such as Bipolar Disorder, thought Disorders such as Schizophrenia, Dementia related disorders, and life transitions.
(478) 292-2564 View (478) 292-2564
Photo of Roselle Holcombe - Georgia Behavioral, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Georgia Behavioral
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Warner Robins, GA 31088
Georgia Behavioral provides treatment for mental health issues including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, grief/loss, ADD/ADHD, behavioral issues, school issues, personality disorders, drug and alcohol and other conditions. We also provide medication management. We are located in the heart of Warner Robins, Georgia. Our facility provides safety and privacy for patients seeking healing and recovery. Our program treats patients age 5 and older in an outpatient setting. Our staff is specially trained to address the complex needs of individuals with co-occurring disorders and to treat the whole person in a comprehensive way.
Georgia Behavioral provides treatment for mental health issues including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, grief/loss, ADD/ADHD, behavioral issues, school issues, personality disorders, drug and alcohol and other conditions. We also provide medication management. We are located in the heart of Warner Robins, Georgia. Our facility provides safety and privacy for patients seeking healing and recovery. Our program treats patients age 5 and older in an outpatient setting. Our staff is specially trained to address the complex needs of individuals with co-occurring disorders and to treat the whole person in a comprehensive way.
(478) 292-2560 View (478) 292-2560
Photo of Sophia Franklin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sophia Franklin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Thomasville, GA 31792
As a clinical social worker, I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, bipolar, schizophrenia, anxiety, relationship issues, career challenges, and anger management.
Hello! I am a licensed clinical social worker in Georgia with over 12 years of experience working as a counselor and life coach. I have helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. Originally from Mississippi, my counseling approach focuses heavily on building a strong rapport, so that trust is established before goals are discussed. Growing up in the South, treating someone with respect is required. In addition, my years working with individuals experiencing homelessness and those who were uninsured enhanced my awareness of seeing each person for who they are vs what they are currently experiencing.
As a clinical social worker, I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, bipolar, schizophrenia, anxiety, relationship issues, career challenges, and anger management.
Hello! I am a licensed clinical social worker in Georgia with over 12 years of experience working as a counselor and life coach. I have helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. Originally from Mississippi, my counseling approach focuses heavily on building a strong rapport, so that trust is established before goals are discussed. Growing up in the South, treating someone with respect is required. In addition, my years working with individuals experiencing homelessness and those who were uninsured enhanced my awareness of seeing each person for who they are vs what they are currently experiencing.
(470) 771-7627 View (470) 771-7627
Photo of Natalie Wakeley, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Natalie Wakeley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Bonaire, GA 31005
Hello and welcome! My name is Natalie Wakeley and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Georgia. If you're new to therapy or have tried therapy in the past and want to explore a more holistic approach, I can help. I specialize in Somatic techniques as well as IFS and DBT to help you process trauma, emotional pain patterns, relationship issues, life transitions, and disorders such as Bipolar, BPD, and OCD that cause anxiety, depression, and emotional pain.
Hello and welcome! My name is Natalie Wakeley and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Georgia. If you're new to therapy or have tried therapy in the past and want to explore a more holistic approach, I can help. I specialize in Somatic techniques as well as IFS and DBT to help you process trauma, emotional pain patterns, relationship issues, life transitions, and disorders such as Bipolar, BPD, and OCD that cause anxiety, depression, and emotional pain.
(678) 750-2358 View (678) 750-2358
Photo of Kristi Meade, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kristi Meade
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Meigs, GA 31765  (Online Only)
I have worked with clients with depression, anxiety, bipolar, schizophrenia, substance abuse, etc.
My name is Kristi Meade. I’m 37 year old straight married female with two wonderful son. I have been fully licensed as LPC for over 3 years now but have been working in the mental health/substance abuse field for over 6 years now. I recently become National Board Certified Counselor in 1/2024. I currently work full time as an inpatient assessor/therapist at a behavioral health crisis center for over 6 years now.
I have worked with clients with depression, anxiety, bipolar, schizophrenia, substance abuse, etc.
My name is Kristi Meade. I’m 37 year old straight married female with two wonderful son. I have been fully licensed as LPC for over 3 years now but have been working in the mental health/substance abuse field for over 6 years now. I recently become National Board Certified Counselor in 1/2024. I currently work full time as an inpatient assessor/therapist at a behavioral health crisis center for over 6 years now.
(229) 210-8792 View (229) 210-8792
Photo of Wesley Cole, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Wesley Cole
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Thomasville, GA 31792
Greetings! I am a Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), as well as a Licensed Independent Chemical Dependency Counselor (LICDC) in Georgia with original roots in Ohio. I am a Vietnam-Era Veteran with experience working with veterans and the homeless population. Although my expertise is with Substance Abuse; I am skilled in Mental Health issues such as, (PTSD, Depression, Anxiety Disorder, Bipolar Disorder; etc.) I have worked the majority of my career with Veterans, homeless, and substance abuse clients. I don't limit myself to working with veterans, but that's where I'm most comfortable.
Greetings! I am a Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), as well as a Licensed Independent Chemical Dependency Counselor (LICDC) in Georgia with original roots in Ohio. I am a Vietnam-Era Veteran with experience working with veterans and the homeless population. Although my expertise is with Substance Abuse; I am skilled in Mental Health issues such as, (PTSD, Depression, Anxiety Disorder, Bipolar Disorder; etc.) I have worked the majority of my career with Veterans, homeless, and substance abuse clients. I don't limit myself to working with veterans, but that's where I'm most comfortable.
(404) 476-6481 View (404) 476-6481
Photo of Jessica Bennett, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jessica Bennett
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Columbus, GA 31901  (Online Only)
I have worked with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, ADHD, family conflicts, relationship difficulties, traumas, abuse, bipolar disorder (manic episodes), suicidal ideations etc.
Hi. I am a middle-aged married mother of one grown and one smaller child. Our next anniversary will be 10 years for us. We were both married before finding each other, so there is a history of blending families with children. I am a Christian and Jesus is the foundation of my life. Life can be quite challenging. Many times we are facing situations that we are not prepared for or have prior hurts that affect our ability to overcome. When we get into these places it is easy to feel stuck or even blind to what is really going on. It is easy to shut down and isolate out of fear of what others may think.
I have worked with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, ADHD, family conflicts, relationship difficulties, traumas, abuse, bipolar disorder (manic episodes), suicidal ideations etc.
Hi. I am a middle-aged married mother of one grown and one smaller child. Our next anniversary will be 10 years for us. We were both married before finding each other, so there is a history of blending families with children. I am a Christian and Jesus is the foundation of my life. Life can be quite challenging. Many times we are facing situations that we are not prepared for or have prior hurts that affect our ability to overcome. When we get into these places it is easy to feel stuck or even blind to what is really going on. It is easy to shut down and isolate out of fear of what others may think.
(762) 400-0421 View (762) 400-0421
Photo of Arless 'Rich' Lewis, LPC, MAMFC, NCC, MFLC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Arless 'Rich' Lewis
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MAMFC, NCC, MFLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Locust Grove, GA 30248
Greetings! I am so glad we were able to find each other! I appreciate you taking the time to read my profile and consider giving me the opportunity to help you during this stressful time of your life. My goal will always be to meet you where you're at in your journey and to help you get to the place where you want to be. The counseling process can be both challenging and rewarding, but I want to reassure you that we will walk it together. You're not alone!
Greetings! I am so glad we were able to find each other! I appreciate you taking the time to read my profile and consider giving me the opportunity to help you during this stressful time of your life. My goal will always be to meet you where you're at in your journey and to help you get to the place where you want to be. The counseling process can be both challenging and rewarding, but I want to reassure you that we will walk it together. You're not alone!
(833) 556-3542 View (833) 556-3542

See more therapy options for Cordele

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.