Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Kennesaw, GA

Photo of Alina Stelzer - Counseling & Psychological Consulting, LLC, PsyD, LPC, MAC, CPCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Counseling & Psychological Consulting, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPC, MAC, CPCS
Verified Verified
Kennesaw, GA 30144
Disorders: Anxiety, bipolar, depression, addictions.
Counseling & Psychological Consulting (C&PC) is a private practice located in Kennesaw Georgia. We provide professional counseling/psychotherapy to individuals, families, and couples. We offer classes for men and women who are court-ordered or voluntarily attend family violence intervention program or alcohol and substance abuse counseling. In addition to these services, we have mental health consultation services, new counselor consultation, and video counseling. Services are provided in the most integrated setting possible, through the application of counseling, consultation, and educational theories.
Disorders: Anxiety, bipolar, depression, addictions.
Counseling & Psychological Consulting (C&PC) is a private practice located in Kennesaw Georgia. We provide professional counseling/psychotherapy to individuals, families, and couples. We offer classes for men and women who are court-ordered or voluntarily attend family violence intervention program or alcohol and substance abuse counseling. In addition to these services, we have mental health consultation services, new counselor consultation, and video counseling. Services are provided in the most integrated setting possible, through the application of counseling, consultation, and educational theories.
(770) 407-8814 View (770) 407-8814
Photo of Joseph House, LAPC, MA, NCC, EMDR, ENERGY, Counselor
Joseph House
Counselor, LAPC, MA, NCC, EMDR, ENERGY
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kennesaw, GA 30152
Joseph will help clients overcome Shame, Substance Abuse, Trauma, PTSD (Physical, Emotional, Psychological, Sexual), Anxiety, Fears, Bipolar, Depression, Grief, Inferiors, Relationship Issues, Spirituality, Sports Psychology (Performance Enhancement), Stress Management.
Joseph delivers many eclectic therapeutic approaches. He delivers proven interventions and modalities to help others change. Joseph practices Energy Work, EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Spirituality, Trauma Stage Processing, Experiential Therapy, and IFS. Clients will change and mitigate their trauma, pain, fear, anxiety, self hatred, inferiority, depression, resistance, and anger. Moreover, he helps others rewind, fix, and grow their mind, body, and soul. Lastly, he will help individuals feel acceptance, forgiveness, and love towards themselves while understanding their emotions, thoughts, and feelings.
Joseph will help clients overcome Shame, Substance Abuse, Trauma, PTSD (Physical, Emotional, Psychological, Sexual), Anxiety, Fears, Bipolar, Depression, Grief, Inferiors, Relationship Issues, Spirituality, Sports Psychology (Performance Enhancement), Stress Management.
Joseph delivers many eclectic therapeutic approaches. He delivers proven interventions and modalities to help others change. Joseph practices Energy Work, EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Spirituality, Trauma Stage Processing, Experiential Therapy, and IFS. Clients will change and mitigate their trauma, pain, fear, anxiety, self hatred, inferiority, depression, resistance, and anger. Moreover, he helps others rewind, fix, and grow their mind, body, and soul. Lastly, he will help individuals feel acceptance, forgiveness, and love towards themselves while understanding their emotions, thoughts, and feelings.
(404) 909-0095 View (404) 909-0095
Photo of Summer Curran, MS, LPC, CFRC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Summer Curran
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CFRC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kennesaw, GA 30144  (Online Only)
If you are not in public safety or the military and are still reading this, I may be able to help you too! I also specialize in anxiety disorders including OCD, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, and Grief.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Georgia and specialize in working with public safety professionals and military members. I started my career as a fire fighter in 1999 and retired from law enforcement in 2021. I had various roles in public safety but most of my years were in law enforcement and on patrol as a Field Training Officer. I am married to a combat veteran and have first-hand knowledge of the unique stressors facing the family members of these professions. If you are a public safety professional reading this right now and are seeking help: I get you. I understand you. I have been there too.
If you are not in public safety or the military and are still reading this, I may be able to help you too! I also specialize in anxiety disorders including OCD, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, and Grief.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Georgia and specialize in working with public safety professionals and military members. I started my career as a fire fighter in 1999 and retired from law enforcement in 2021. I had various roles in public safety but most of my years were in law enforcement and on patrol as a Field Training Officer. I am married to a combat veteran and have first-hand knowledge of the unique stressors facing the family members of these professions. If you are a public safety professional reading this right now and are seeking help: I get you. I understand you. I have been there too.
(470) 291-2361 View (470) 291-2361
Photo of Mariesa Tinkham, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mariesa Tinkham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Kennesaw, GA 30144  (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 Ann Keller, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ann Keller
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kennesaw, GA 30152
Life can be difficult sometimes. This is especially true if you are struggling to manage your moods or your relationships or both. Having a safe place to process your struggles and make plans to live life in an emotionally healthier place can be helpful. I enjoy helping people improve their relationships by improving themselves. Some of the areas I enjoy working with are: Anxiety, Panic Attacks, Panic Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Phobias, Borderline Personality Disorder, Anger Management, and Sexuality, etc. When people improve in these areas, they frequently also notice improvements in their relationships.
Life can be difficult sometimes. This is especially true if you are struggling to manage your moods or your relationships or both. Having a safe place to process your struggles and make plans to live life in an emotionally healthier place can be helpful. I enjoy helping people improve their relationships by improving themselves. Some of the areas I enjoy working with are: Anxiety, Panic Attacks, Panic Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Phobias, Borderline Personality Disorder, Anger Management, and Sexuality, etc. When people improve in these areas, they frequently also notice improvements in their relationships.
(770) 983-6552 View (770) 983-6552
Photo of Carol L Moore - Counseling Innovations, MA, LPC, RPT-S, CPCS, CHT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Counseling Innovations
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, RPT-S, CPCS, CHT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kennesaw, GA 30144
I have particular expertise working with Trauma, PTSD, Sexual Abuse, Dissociative Identity Disorder, Eating Disorders, Attachment Issues, Anxiety, Asperger's Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, and Schizophrenia.
As a licensed professional counselor, my goal is to help individuals, couples, and families identify areas where change is needed to enhance growth, harmony, and balance in their lives. I take a holistic approach to therapy by incorporating a variety of therapeutic modalities into my practice including CBT, Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Psychodynamic Therapy, Person Centered Therapy, Family Systems Therapy, Imago Therapy, DBT, Mindfulness Based Therapy (i.e., meditation, guided imagery, deep breathing), Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Hypnotherapy, Play Therapy, Art Therapy, Sand Tray Therapy, and Animal Assisted Therapy.
I have particular expertise working with Trauma, PTSD, Sexual Abuse, Dissociative Identity Disorder, Eating Disorders, Attachment Issues, Anxiety, Asperger's Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, and Schizophrenia.
As a licensed professional counselor, my goal is to help individuals, couples, and families identify areas where change is needed to enhance growth, harmony, and balance in their lives. I take a holistic approach to therapy by incorporating a variety of therapeutic modalities into my practice including CBT, Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Psychodynamic Therapy, Person Centered Therapy, Family Systems Therapy, Imago Therapy, DBT, Mindfulness Based Therapy (i.e., meditation, guided imagery, deep breathing), Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Hypnotherapy, Play Therapy, Art Therapy, Sand Tray Therapy, and Animal Assisted Therapy.
(678) 919-1077 View (678) 919-1077
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
Kennesaw, GA 30144
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 Counseling Services Of Atlanta - Counseling Services of Atlanta, Licensed Professional Counselor
Counseling Services of Atlanta
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kennesaw, GA 30144
We treat: Depression, Anxiety, Anger, Stress, relationship issues, Parenting, Divorce, Couples, Mood Disorders, Childhood abuse, Sexual Abuse, Trauma, PTSD, OCD, Loneliness, Grief, Eating disorders, Addiction (all forms), ADHD/ADD, Women's Issues, LGBT Issues, Men's Issues,Teen Issues, Bipolar, Play therapy/social skills for ages 3 and up, and Life coaching.
Counseling Services of Atlanta offers individual, couples, and family therapy. We offer therapy and counseling services for both adults and children of all ages including video sessions. We now have 4 male therapists and 20 female therapists! We can treat a wide variety of mental health concerns and sessions are available by video if needed. We are centrally located to provide services for Marietta, East Cobb, West Cobb, Smyrna, Vinings, Kennesaw, Powder Springs, Austell, Mableton, Dallas, Douglasville, Hiram, Acworth, Atlanta, Peachtree Corners, Lawrenceville, Alpharetta, Roswell, Sandy Springs, Dunwoody, Duluth, and Tucker areas.
We treat: Depression, Anxiety, Anger, Stress, relationship issues, Parenting, Divorce, Couples, Mood Disorders, Childhood abuse, Sexual Abuse, Trauma, PTSD, OCD, Loneliness, Grief, Eating disorders, Addiction (all forms), ADHD/ADD, Women's Issues, LGBT Issues, Men's Issues,Teen Issues, Bipolar, Play therapy/social skills for ages 3 and up, and Life coaching.
Counseling Services of Atlanta offers individual, couples, and family therapy. We offer therapy and counseling services for both adults and children of all ages including video sessions. We now have 4 male therapists and 20 female therapists! We can treat a wide variety of mental health concerns and sessions are available by video if needed. We are centrally located to provide services for Marietta, East Cobb, West Cobb, Smyrna, Vinings, Kennesaw, Powder Springs, Austell, Mableton, Dallas, Douglasville, Hiram, Acworth, Atlanta, Peachtree Corners, Lawrenceville, Alpharetta, Roswell, Sandy Springs, Dunwoody, Duluth, and Tucker areas.
(678) 394-3719 View (678) 394-3719
Photo of Caitlyn Broyles, MS, APC, NCC, Counselor
Caitlyn Broyles
Counselor, MS, APC, NCC
Not Verified Not Verified
Kennesaw, GA 30144
*Currently accepting new patients* Throughout my work in community mental health, I have had the opportunity to work with a variety of client populations including individuals dealing with depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, trauma, and substance abuse. I also conduct independent clinical drug and alcohol evaluations.
*Currently accepting new patients* Throughout my work in community mental health, I have had the opportunity to work with a variety of client populations including individuals dealing with depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, trauma, and substance abuse. I also conduct independent clinical drug and alcohol evaluations.
(678) 303-4239 View (678) 303-4239
Photo of Renee Atwood, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Renee Atwood
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Kennesaw, GA 30144  (Online Only)
The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. Renee Atwood has worked with clients who have experienced depression, both childhood and adult trauma, codependency issues, anxiety, and PTSD. Renee has also worked with individuals suffering from grief, divorce, and issues pertaining to aging. She has counseled teens, adults, and families through a down-to-earth counseling approach.
The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. Renee Atwood has worked with clients who have experienced depression, both childhood and adult trauma, codependency issues, anxiety, and PTSD. Renee has also worked with individuals suffering from grief, divorce, and issues pertaining to aging. She has counseled teens, adults, and families through a down-to-earth counseling approach.
(678) 252-5265 View (678) 252-5265
Photo of Victoria Walsh, MA, LPC , C-DBT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Victoria Walsh
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC , C-DBT
Verified Verified
Kennesaw, GA 30152  (Online Only)
Please note that I offer online sessions only. Feeling anxious, depressed, confused, overwhelmed? Disappointed in the quality of your relationships? In the midst of a difficult life transition? Wondering if therapy may help? Today you are one step closer to a new you where you feel empowered and on a positive path to growth and well-being.
Please note that I offer online sessions only. Feeling anxious, depressed, confused, overwhelmed? Disappointed in the quality of your relationships? In the midst of a difficult life transition? Wondering if therapy may help? Today you are one step closer to a new you where you feel empowered and on a positive path to growth and well-being.
(470) 619-4541 View (470) 619-4541
Photo of Anna C Miller, LMHC, LPC, NBCC, MCAP, CRPS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Anna C Miller
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC, LPC, NBCC, MCAP, CRPS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kennesaw, GA 30144  (Online Only)
I specialize in providing support and guidance for individuals facing a range of challenges, including anxiety, depression, life stressors, addiction, and trauma. Through a holistic and compassionate approach, I work with individuals to navigate their experiences, build coping strategies, and foster resilience. My expertise lies in creating a safe and non-judgmental space where individuals can explore their feelings, identify patterns, and work towards healing and growth. If you are seeking a supportive ally on your journey towards mental well-being, I am here to help.
I specialize in providing support and guidance for individuals facing a range of challenges, including anxiety, depression, life stressors, addiction, and trauma. Through a holistic and compassionate approach, I work with individuals to navigate their experiences, build coping strategies, and foster resilience. My expertise lies in creating a safe and non-judgmental space where individuals can explore their feelings, identify patterns, and work towards healing and growth. If you are seeking a supportive ally on your journey towards mental well-being, I am here to help.
(912) 372-5120 View (912) 372-5120
Photo of Jonathan Smith, MA, LPC, Counselor
Jonathan Smith
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kennesaw, GA 30144
We are not here on this Earth to live life day to day, to go through the daily grind of life just getting by. Life is not about surviving, it is about thriving. Just surviving can leave us feel like we're floating through life. On a high seed bullet train, with life blurring past us. This can bring about depression, anxiety, addictions, and a missing sense of purpose in life. Finding who we are and our purpose can transform us into truly living life. My goal is to create a space for you to develop awareness, find your purpose, and discover how you can live that out daily. I look forward to walking alongside you in this journey.
We are not here on this Earth to live life day to day, to go through the daily grind of life just getting by. Life is not about surviving, it is about thriving. Just surviving can leave us feel like we're floating through life. On a high seed bullet train, with life blurring past us. This can bring about depression, anxiety, addictions, and a missing sense of purpose in life. Finding who we are and our purpose can transform us into truly living life. My goal is to create a space for you to develop awareness, find your purpose, and discover how you can live that out daily. I look forward to walking alongside you in this journey.
(770) 648-3618 View (770) 648-3618
Photo of Samantha Panter
Samantha Panter
Associate Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kennesaw, GA 30144
As a therapist, Samantha provides a safe space for clients to process their past traumas, finding ways to manage their life stressors and daily challenges, and building healthier connections with themselves and others. Tailoring the approach of therapy to best meet the client’s needs. The reason for this eclectic approach is that everyone has their own life story and different experiences. Samantha’s approach is rooted in person centered therapy, which believes that the client is the “expert” on their life story. By processing past and current experiences, one can create healthier connections and relationships in their lives.
As a therapist, Samantha provides a safe space for clients to process their past traumas, finding ways to manage their life stressors and daily challenges, and building healthier connections with themselves and others. Tailoring the approach of therapy to best meet the client’s needs. The reason for this eclectic approach is that everyone has their own life story and different experiences. Samantha’s approach is rooted in person centered therapy, which believes that the client is the “expert” on their life story. By processing past and current experiences, one can create healthier connections and relationships in their lives.
(678) 264-3405 View (678) 264-3405
Photo of Marissa Herrera, Licensed Professional Counselor
Marissa Herrera
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Kennesaw, GA 30144  (Online Only)
Hello, I'm Marissa Herrera. I'm excited to meet you and help you wherever you may find yourself on your therapy journey! My ideal client would be an individual who is ready and open in their healing journey. Potential issues could be related to sexual identity/orientation, depression, anxiety, ADHD, cultural, and interpersonal challenges, and difficulty with daily functioning. Their goals would be to decrease days associated with body dysphoria, sx related to depression/anxiety, etc; improving self-report of self-worth/self-esteem, interpersonal relationships, etc.
Hello, I'm Marissa Herrera. I'm excited to meet you and help you wherever you may find yourself on your therapy journey! My ideal client would be an individual who is ready and open in their healing journey. Potential issues could be related to sexual identity/orientation, depression, anxiety, ADHD, cultural, and interpersonal challenges, and difficulty with daily functioning. Their goals would be to decrease days associated with body dysphoria, sx related to depression/anxiety, etc; improving self-report of self-worth/self-esteem, interpersonal relationships, etc.
(470) 570-7696 View (470) 570-7696
Photo of Leslie Middleton Walters, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Leslie Middleton Walters
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Kennesaw, GA 30144  (Online Only)
Leslie Middleton Walters, EdD, is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with 26 years of experience in the mental health field. Leslie believes that it is always best to reach out to someone that can assist with de-escalating fears and re-establishing hope, and provide encouragement to persevere during the dark times. Her primary goal is to help others face their challenges and fears and become the person that they want to be through the development of lifelong coping skills, in an environment that is accepting and open to individualized thoughts and ideas.
Leslie Middleton Walters, EdD, is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with 26 years of experience in the mental health field. Leslie believes that it is always best to reach out to someone that can assist with de-escalating fears and re-establishing hope, and provide encouragement to persevere during the dark times. Her primary goal is to help others face their challenges and fears and become the person that they want to be through the development of lifelong coping skills, in an environment that is accepting and open to individualized thoughts and ideas.
(678) 841-8485 View (678) 841-8485
Photo of Senovia Wyche, Counselor
Senovia Wyche
Counselor
Verified Verified
Kennesaw, GA 30144
Dr. Senovia Wyche is an Associate Professional Counselor with 2 years of experience. Her professional experience has enabled her to work with diverse populations, cultures, and socioeconomic levels. Dr. Wyche provides an encouraging environment to assist clients in expressing their feelings and discussing their life events. Her goal is to empower clients by helping them solve problems on their own successfully and to assist them in attaining their therapeutic goals.
Dr. Senovia Wyche is an Associate Professional Counselor with 2 years of experience. Her professional experience has enabled her to work with diverse populations, cultures, and socioeconomic levels. Dr. Wyche provides an encouraging environment to assist clients in expressing their feelings and discussing their life events. Her goal is to empower clients by helping them solve problems on their own successfully and to assist them in attaining their therapeutic goals.
(470) 735-2194 View (470) 735-2194
Photo of Kelly Freeman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelly Freeman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Kennesaw, GA 30144  (Online Only)
Kelly knew she wanted to be a counselor since she was 12 years old! She was the go-to for her friend group whenever there was an issue or a problem, and once she realized she could make a career out of supporting and encouraging others, she knew she had found her path! Kelly is always excited to work with a client who is motivated to evolve and change. Plain and simple, you are worthy and lovable just the way you are, even before you make one change.
Kelly knew she wanted to be a counselor since she was 12 years old! She was the go-to for her friend group whenever there was an issue or a problem, and once she realized she could make a career out of supporting and encouraging others, she knew she had found her path! Kelly is always excited to work with a client who is motivated to evolve and change. Plain and simple, you are worthy and lovable just the way you are, even before you make one change.
(678) 331-5685 View (678) 331-5685
Photo of Michael Britt, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michael Britt
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Kennesaw, GA 30144
Michael has worked with a wide variety of ages ranging from 5 and up. He focuses on such issues as depression, anxiety, suicide ideation, financial concerns, crisis intervention, psychosis, vocational therapy and mood disorders. Has obtained a reputation as knowledgeable, conscientious, hardworking, and a proactive professional. He Demonstrates a passion for aiding and promoting healthy mindsets and acceptance across all populations.
Michael has worked with a wide variety of ages ranging from 5 and up. He focuses on such issues as depression, anxiety, suicide ideation, financial concerns, crisis intervention, psychosis, vocational therapy and mood disorders. Has obtained a reputation as knowledgeable, conscientious, hardworking, and a proactive professional. He Demonstrates a passion for aiding and promoting healthy mindsets and acceptance across all populations.
(678) 578-5263 View (678) 578-5263
Photo of Allison Jenifer Lindsey, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Allison Jenifer Lindsey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kennesaw, GA 30152
Ever find yourself asking, "Am I losing control?"..." Will I live like this forever?"..."Something has to change, but what?"..."Is God even listening to my cries for help?"
Ever find yourself asking, "Am I losing control?"..." Will I live like this forever?"..."Something has to change, but what?"..."Is God even listening to my cries for help?"
(866) 641-4388 View (866) 641-4388
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.