Therapists in Lookout Mountain, GA
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![Photo of Lindsay Keiss, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/feea4fd4-bef1-454b-87bc-c92312aa81b1/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am passionate about walking alongside individuals who feel beat down and weary from life’s burdens. Life is not easy, but having someone with an outside view can really help provide the clarity and insight we need. If you are hurting, struggling to stay hopeful, or having trouble finding direction, I would be honored to hear your story and walk with you towards hope and healing.
I am passionate about walking alongside individuals who feel beat down and weary from life’s burdens. Life is not easy, but having someone with an outside view can really help provide the clarity and insight we need. If you are hurting, struggling to stay hopeful, or having trouble finding direction, I would be honored to hear your story and walk with you towards hope and healing.
![Photo of Steve Thayer - Steve Thayer, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a71b479-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Steve Thayer
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rossville, GA 30741 (Online Only)
Individual & Relationship Counseling primarily by video or on the phone. Most insurance plans pay the cost for these services. Anxiety, depression, fears, marriage counseling, grief, addictions, infidelity, faith issues, and life and professional adjustments, are all problems that counseling can help. I can also provide services for those in Georgia (MFT001548), Florida (MT4610), Delaware (FT-0010138), & Virginia (0717002131)
Individual & Relationship Counseling primarily by video or on the phone. Most insurance plans pay the cost for these services. Anxiety, depression, fears, marriage counseling, grief, addictions, infidelity, faith issues, and life and professional adjustments, are all problems that counseling can help. I can also provide services for those in Georgia (MFT001548), Florida (MT4610), Delaware (FT-0010138), & Virginia (0717002131)
![Photo of Angela Hogg, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b08356d6-39ca-4ad8-9d92-492f7e9b340b/1/320x400.png)
Hi! My name is Angela Hogg. I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 25 years of experience in helping individuals overcome life’s challenges. I have extensive experience in treating depression, anxiety, grief, self-esteem issues, and marital/family issues. I practice Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, as I believe our thoughts and behaviors are connected and affect one another. I also provide Christian Counseling, as I am a Christian, and that does affect my paradigm. I approach therapy with you being an active participant in the process. I will help you to identify problems and together we’ll come up with plans to create change.
Hi! My name is Angela Hogg. I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 25 years of experience in helping individuals overcome life’s challenges. I have extensive experience in treating depression, anxiety, grief, self-esteem issues, and marital/family issues. I practice Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, as I believe our thoughts and behaviors are connected and affect one another. I also provide Christian Counseling, as I am a Christian, and that does affect my paradigm. I approach therapy with you being an active participant in the process. I will help you to identify problems and together we’ll come up with plans to create change.
Online Therapists
![Photo of James M Siwy, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2f2901d4-1b0f-4dcd-b56d-bd5c37ea50be/3/320x400.jpeg)
I have a heart for individuals who are in the turmoil of mental illness, such as depression or bipolar disorder.
Distressed? Demoralized? Or do you just have questions or doubts about where your life is going? What seems like a crisis may be the gateway to deeper self-understanding and opportunity, not only for immediate relief, but also for discovering the life you were meant to live.
I have a heart for individuals who are in the turmoil of mental illness, such as depression or bipolar disorder.
Distressed? Demoralized? Or do you just have questions or doubts about where your life is going? What seems like a crisis may be the gateway to deeper self-understanding and opportunity, not only for immediate relief, but also for discovering the life you were meant to live.
![Photo of C Williams, PsyD, MSW, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3bfcd979-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/5/320x400.jpeg)
Therapeutically, my goal is to create a warm, kind and safe environment where my clients can achieve growth and balance. I endeavor to make the journey valuable and enjoyable, even when it's uncomfortable. I generally work with clients experiencing difficulties with transitions (school, career, etc), becoming a Mother/Parent and all the related, often unspoken changes that accompany this new role, relationship issues, issues of identity (ethnic, sexual), sexual abuse, obtaining & maintaining greater independence from parents or spouse, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, social fears, addiction, diversity, divorce, parenting, communication skills, spirituality, growing as a therapist, health & fitness and self development.
Therapeutically, my goal is to create a warm, kind and safe environment where my clients can achieve growth and balance. I endeavor to make the journey valuable and enjoyable, even when it's uncomfortable. I generally work with clients experiencing difficulties with transitions (school, career, etc), becoming a Mother/Parent and all the related, often unspoken changes that accompany this new role, relationship issues, issues of identity (ethnic, sexual), sexual abuse, obtaining & maintaining greater independence from parents or spouse, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, social fears, addiction, diversity, divorce, parenting, communication skills, spirituality, growing as a therapist, health & fitness and self development.
![Photo of Lisa C Bryan, LPC, NCC, MEd, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3be83182-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lisa C Bryan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MEd
Verified Verified
Peachtree Corners, GA 30092
I am also skilled in helping individuals with Bipolar Disorder, Personality Disorders, ADHD, Marital Counseling and several other personal issues.
Are you nervous, having panic attacks, shortness of breath, or maybe your heart is racing and you can't explain it; it could potentially be anxiety. Maybe for lack of better coping skills you have increased your use of alcohol or drugs. Maybe your family is telling you you are addicted to or abusing alcohol or drugs, but you don't know what else to do. Some people don't understand what is happening to their body and are fearful of where to go or how to get help.
I am also skilled in helping individuals with Bipolar Disorder, Personality Disorders, ADHD, Marital Counseling and several other personal issues.
Are you nervous, having panic attacks, shortness of breath, or maybe your heart is racing and you can't explain it; it could potentially be anxiety. Maybe for lack of better coping skills you have increased your use of alcohol or drugs. Maybe your family is telling you you are addicted to or abusing alcohol or drugs, but you don't know what else to do. Some people don't understand what is happening to their body and are fearful of where to go or how to get help.
![Photo of Tessa Wolf, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ebca6bb-12bc-4950-9401-44db82b06085/2/320x400.png)
There are many things to consider when starting therapy. It can be overwhelming to find a therapist who is a good fit. I specialize in mood disorders (anxiety, depression and bipolar d/o) and OCD (obsessive-compulsive d/o) with clients of a diverse age range. I also work with clients who have long-standing relational and personality issues. I work from a holistic model and help clients to make changes across many areas of their lives: physically, emotionally, relationally, stress reduction, and spirituality/faith (if there is a desire to incorporate it).
There are many things to consider when starting therapy. It can be overwhelming to find a therapist who is a good fit. I specialize in mood disorders (anxiety, depression and bipolar d/o) and OCD (obsessive-compulsive d/o) with clients of a diverse age range. I also work with clients who have long-standing relational and personality issues. I work from a holistic model and help clients to make changes across many areas of their lives: physically, emotionally, relationally, stress reduction, and spirituality/faith (if there is a desire to incorporate it).
![Photo of Dana M Lindsay, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d7e40c4-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dana M Lindsay
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30305
Waitlist for new clients
I work with clients desiring help with bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, and trauma issues. I also offer counseling for goals/values clarification, later career/empty nest planning, codependency, relationship stress, and couples/premarital counseling. I believe in helping clients assess and appreciate their strengths in order for them to move forward toward achieving their goals. It is important to create a safe, non-judgmental environment in which clients may explore, share, and rebuild their own life stories.
I work with clients desiring help with bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, and trauma issues. I also offer counseling for goals/values clarification, later career/empty nest planning, codependency, relationship stress, and couples/premarital counseling. I believe in helping clients assess and appreciate their strengths in order for them to move forward toward achieving their goals. It is important to create a safe, non-judgmental environment in which clients may explore, share, and rebuild their own life stories.
![Photo of Dawn Kentish Bennett - Dawn Bennett, MSW, LICSW, LCSW, MAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4543352e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dawn Bennett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LCSW, MAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30303
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in treating individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia, Bipolar disorder, Borderline personality disorder etc.
Are you constantly in crisis and can't seem to get on track? Then I am the therapist for individuals who are motivated and commited to peeling away at the core and working through issues hindering personal growth. Your Individual partnership, personal responsibility and commitment to oneself are essential tools in obtaining optimal success.
I specialize in treating individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia, Bipolar disorder, Borderline personality disorder etc.
Are you constantly in crisis and can't seem to get on track? Then I am the therapist for individuals who are motivated and commited to peeling away at the core and working through issues hindering personal growth. Your Individual partnership, personal responsibility and commitment to oneself are essential tools in obtaining optimal success.
![Photo of Marissa R Portee - The Counseling Institute of Dallas, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6d211951-c849-4dbd-bc2c-5f68342b454b/1/320x400.jpeg)
The Counseling Institute of Dallas
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Dallas, GA 30132
I have over 10 years experience in mental health treatment. I specialize in counseling a variety of disorders and issues including anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem, bipolar, addiction, and empowerment. I offer virtual individual and couples counseling along with in person groups. I will work alongside you in helping you to achieve your goals and stay on task. Life can be hard and filled with struggles but you do not have to face them alone. Our life experiences can make us view the world and assign meaning in distorted ways. There is a great strength in being able to ask for help. You are not alone in your struggle!
I have over 10 years experience in mental health treatment. I specialize in counseling a variety of disorders and issues including anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem, bipolar, addiction, and empowerment. I offer virtual individual and couples counseling along with in person groups. I will work alongside you in helping you to achieve your goals and stay on task. Life can be hard and filled with struggles but you do not have to face them alone. Our life experiences can make us view the world and assign meaning in distorted ways. There is a great strength in being able to ask for help. You are not alone in your struggle!
![Photo of Timi Wennemann Psychotherapist, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cb037e5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Timi Wennemann Psychotherapist
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Johns Creek, GA 30097 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My professional experience includes assisting clients with many issues such as Attention Deficit (ADHD), behavioral and anger difficulties, depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorders, self-mutilation/injury, addictions/recovery, trauma, grief, stress, sexual abuse, marital/family conflict, domestic violence, and parenting.
Sorry for the inconvenience, not currently taking new clients. I am a Psychotherapist who has been working with children, adolescents, and adults for many years. My professional experience includes providing quality therapeutic services in the clinical, school, and community settings to individuals, families, couples, and groups.
My professional experience includes assisting clients with many issues such as Attention Deficit (ADHD), behavioral and anger difficulties, depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorders, self-mutilation/injury, addictions/recovery, trauma, grief, stress, sexual abuse, marital/family conflict, domestic violence, and parenting.
Sorry for the inconvenience, not currently taking new clients. I am a Psychotherapist who has been working with children, adolescents, and adults for many years. My professional experience includes providing quality therapeutic services in the clinical, school, and community settings to individuals, families, couples, and groups.
![Photo of S. Alexis Davis - Inneractions Therapy Services, LLC, MS, LPC, CPCS, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ca03889c-31bc-4917-ab59-fce7b564704c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Inneractions Therapy Services, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30067
autism spectrum, anxiety, depression, bipolar,.
Key to Success: Finding the right therapist. With over 20 years of experience working with children, teens, adults struggling with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), attention/focus difficulty (ADD/ADHD), anxiety (social/general), and depressive disorders, I understand the difficulties/challenges/ misunderstandings present. I actively listen to immediate concerns and offer helpful feedback quickly. I want to guide you/your family to discover strength, ability and understanding.
autism spectrum, anxiety, depression, bipolar,.
Key to Success: Finding the right therapist. With over 20 years of experience working with children, teens, adults struggling with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), attention/focus difficulty (ADD/ADHD), anxiety (social/general), and depressive disorders, I understand the difficulties/challenges/ misunderstandings present. I actively listen to immediate concerns and offer helpful feedback quickly. I want to guide you/your family to discover strength, ability and understanding.
![Photo of Hannah Boos, MA, LPC, NCC, CPTT, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bc2be847-959b-4960-8b7e-6738ac703738/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hannah Boos
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, CPTT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tucker, GA 30084
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!
![Photo of Robert Gillette, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c718a82-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Robert Gillette
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Cumming, GA 30040
Additionally, I have experience working with men's issues, bipolar disorder, anger management, couples counseling, sexual difficulties, relationships, sexual preference, and sexual addiction.
Your current life situations do not have to predict your tomorrow. If you are ready to move away from the past I can help. My passion is to help others find freedom from the issues that are causing difficulties and pain. Freedom comes from resolving the issues that are causing the difficulties. Freedom can be found in many forms such as: mending relationships, putting an addiction to rest, developing boundaries, facing depression and anxiety or rebuilding a broken marriage. The road to tomorrow is paved by the work you do today.
Additionally, I have experience working with men's issues, bipolar disorder, anger management, couples counseling, sexual difficulties, relationships, sexual preference, and sexual addiction.
Your current life situations do not have to predict your tomorrow. If you are ready to move away from the past I can help. My passion is to help others find freedom from the issues that are causing difficulties and pain. Freedom comes from resolving the issues that are causing the difficulties. Freedom can be found in many forms such as: mending relationships, putting an addiction to rest, developing boundaries, facing depression and anxiety or rebuilding a broken marriage. The road to tomorrow is paved by the work you do today.
![Photo of Mary Elizabeth Ebinger - Attento Counseling Practice, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a04df9db-9dc8-461d-9271-4787cc99a7ad/1/320x400.jpeg)
Attento Counseling Practice
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Marietta, GA 30067
Our approach to therapy is dynamic and we specialize in a variety of issues including, ADHD, Anger Management, Bipolar Disorder, Coping Skills, Dual Diagnosis, Emotional Disturbance, Family Conflict, Grief, Life Coaching, Marital & Premarital, Men's Issues, Peer Relationships, Transgender, Trauma & PTSD, and Women's Issues.
*Request an Appointment Here https://attentocounseling.com/request-an-appointment/ *Attento Counseling is an outpatient behavioral health provider with 3 locations and over 60 licensed clinicians in the north Atlanta metro area (Marietta, Cumming, and Kennesaw). We also offer an affordable, accessible sliding-scale option for clients in need through our Mental Wellness & Emotional Learning program. Visit mwel.net for more information.
Our approach to therapy is dynamic and we specialize in a variety of issues including, ADHD, Anger Management, Bipolar Disorder, Coping Skills, Dual Diagnosis, Emotional Disturbance, Family Conflict, Grief, Life Coaching, Marital & Premarital, Men's Issues, Peer Relationships, Transgender, Trauma & PTSD, and Women's Issues.
*Request an Appointment Here https://attentocounseling.com/request-an-appointment/ *Attento Counseling is an outpatient behavioral health provider with 3 locations and over 60 licensed clinicians in the north Atlanta metro area (Marietta, Cumming, and Kennesaw). We also offer an affordable, accessible sliding-scale option for clients in need through our Mental Wellness & Emotional Learning program. Visit mwel.net for more information.
![Photo of Alyson Stuckart, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b2b8dfe8-96b0-4d3d-93f2-1368e4e42fbf/1/320x400.png)
I am licensed in Georgia with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with lgbtq+ related issues, family conflicts, coping with grief and loss, & bipolar disorder. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
I am licensed in Georgia with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with lgbtq+ related issues, family conflicts, coping with grief and loss, & bipolar disorder. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
![Photo of Sarah Pratts, MS](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e1b4dcb8-6ab5-4a82-b356-9fabe74d164a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Some of the concerns Sarah has worked with include: codependency behavior, stress and anxiety, trauma, anger management, addictions, depression, self-harm, Autism, ADHD, Borderline Personality, Bipolar Mood Disorder, and PTSD.
Sarah believes that each client is the author of his or her own life experiences, and has the capability of maneuvering and pushing forward through circumstances in life. She recognizes it can be difficult and scary learning and implementing the tools needed to accomplish fears and worries. "It's like exercising a new muscle. It may hurt and get sore by working-out, but the muscle grows stronger the more effort you put into working on it." She has extensively researched the concept of empathy to help clients work through their trauma to develop secure attachment styles as well as understanding perspectives and co-dependency actions.
Some of the concerns Sarah has worked with include: codependency behavior, stress and anxiety, trauma, anger management, addictions, depression, self-harm, Autism, ADHD, Borderline Personality, Bipolar Mood Disorder, and PTSD.
Sarah believes that each client is the author of his or her own life experiences, and has the capability of maneuvering and pushing forward through circumstances in life. She recognizes it can be difficult and scary learning and implementing the tools needed to accomplish fears and worries. "It's like exercising a new muscle. It may hurt and get sore by working-out, but the muscle grows stronger the more effort you put into working on it." She has extensively researched the concept of empathy to help clients work through their trauma to develop secure attachment styles as well as understanding perspectives and co-dependency actions.
![Photo of James Lovett, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9b34a7f4-ac57-4519-8021-a01178c91bc1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi I am James Lovett LPC, CPCS. I am a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist with over twenty years experience working with Anxiety, Depression, Grief, crisis's and the LGBTQIA community. I enjoy working to assist you towards feeling happy and fulfilled in life .
Hi I am James Lovett LPC, CPCS. I am a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist with over twenty years experience working with Anxiety, Depression, Grief, crisis's and the LGBTQIA community. I enjoy working to assist you towards feeling happy and fulfilled in life .
![Photo of Craig Kerley And Associates, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4df890a9-8337-4e92-9e62-7cb056daaa67/2/320x400.jpeg)
Roswell Counseling for Children and Adults started out as a solo private practice by Dr. D. Craig Kerley, PsyD, in 2003. For more information, visit our website at www.roswelltherapy.com.
Roswell Counseling for Children and Adults started out as a solo private practice by Dr. D. Craig Kerley, PsyD, in 2003. For more information, visit our website at www.roswelltherapy.com.
![Photo of Aaron James Kimble, PhD, MA, MBA, LPC, NCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e741eb53-42ed-4907-9c42-3e8d81c1199d/2/320x400.png)
My ideal client is every client who is in need of a listening ear. However, my specialty focuses on those who suffer with anxiety, depression, performance or sexual concerns including sexual trauma and/or performance anxiety. I also work with former or current athletes, military veterans, police officers, and trauma survivors who may suffer with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. My specialty also focuses on feminist therapy as I empower and encourage those who are under privileged and underserved. I also enjoy working with members of the LGBT+ community to empower growth and give a voice to any member of the LGBT group.
My ideal client is every client who is in need of a listening ear. However, my specialty focuses on those who suffer with anxiety, depression, performance or sexual concerns including sexual trauma and/or performance anxiety. I also work with former or current athletes, military veterans, police officers, and trauma survivors who may suffer with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. My specialty also focuses on feminist therapy as I empower and encourage those who are under privileged and underserved. I also enjoy working with members of the LGBT+ community to empower growth and give a voice to any member of the LGBT group.
See more therapy options for Lookout Mountain
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.