Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Stonecrest, GA

Photo of Heather Willard, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Heather Willard
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Stonecrest, GA 30038
I am a licensed professional counselor with nine years of experience. I am well versed in Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy. I have specialized training in Bipolar Disorder, Mood Disorders, Trauma and PTSD, Child Abuse or Neglect, and Spirituality. My communication style includes empathy and openness. I encourage excellent communication skills and will teach you to achieve them. With excellent communication comes outstanding achievements and empowerment towards your mental health.
I am a licensed professional counselor with nine years of experience. I am well versed in Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy. I have specialized training in Bipolar Disorder, Mood Disorders, Trauma and PTSD, Child Abuse or Neglect, and Spirituality. My communication style includes empathy and openness. I encourage excellent communication skills and will teach you to achieve them. With excellent communication comes outstanding achievements and empowerment towards your mental health.
(678) 710-3621 View (678) 710-3621
Photo of Roshanda May - Empowerment Pathways Counseling, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Empowerment Pathways Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Stonecrest, GA 30038
In life we often take on many roles. These roles often leave us feeling overwhelmed, burnt out, and unfulfilled with no time to cater to our needs. Take the journey with me to rediscover you and make yourself a priority. Therapy will help you learn how to balance life stressors, address unresolved trauma, build better relationships, and work towards the life you desire. I specialize in working with women, men, and teens with ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Eating Disorders and couples. Whether you're struggling with daily stressors or facing more complex challenges, I am here to offer support, guidance, and practical tools to help you.
In life we often take on many roles. These roles often leave us feeling overwhelmed, burnt out, and unfulfilled with no time to cater to our needs. Take the journey with me to rediscover you and make yourself a priority. Therapy will help you learn how to balance life stressors, address unresolved trauma, build better relationships, and work towards the life you desire. I specialize in working with women, men, and teens with ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Eating Disorders and couples. Whether you're struggling with daily stressors or facing more complex challenges, I am here to offer support, guidance, and practical tools to help you.
(678) 394-3716 View (678) 394-3716
Photo of Courtney DeFlanders - The LIFE Firm Counseling Services, LLC, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
The LIFE Firm Counseling Services, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Stonecrest, GA 30038  (Online Only)
The LIFE Firm, LLC provides exceptional behavioral health care and consultation services. We are dedicated to offering top-tier support to our clients. Founded by Courtney DeFlanders, a Georgia Licensed Professional Counselor and School Counselor, our practice recognizes the unique nature of each individual and the distinctive challenges they face. Courtney’s personalized approach incorporates holistic methods rooted in behavioral and solution-focused strategies.
The LIFE Firm, LLC provides exceptional behavioral health care and consultation services. We are dedicated to offering top-tier support to our clients. Founded by Courtney DeFlanders, a Georgia Licensed Professional Counselor and School Counselor, our practice recognizes the unique nature of each individual and the distinctive challenges they face. Courtney’s personalized approach incorporates holistic methods rooted in behavioral and solution-focused strategies.
(470) 735-2605 View (470) 735-2605
Photo of Krystal West, LMSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Krystal West
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Stonecrest, GA 30038  (Online Only)
Has the journey of life been an uphill battle? Has the twist and turns caused you to lose focus on your path? If so, I would love to help. There is no roadmap to a happy and fulfilling life. However, many of us have the tools and the strength to make it through life's difficult circumstances. Together we will build self-efficacy. Therapy structured and focused on you. Out of the box thinking and perspectives is what makes my sessions so unique.
Has the journey of life been an uphill battle? Has the twist and turns caused you to lose focus on your path? If so, I would love to help. There is no roadmap to a happy and fulfilling life. However, many of us have the tools and the strength to make it through life's difficult circumstances. Together we will build self-efficacy. Therapy structured and focused on you. Out of the box thinking and perspectives is what makes my sessions so unique.
(770) 746-8523 View (770) 746-8523
Photo of Nikkiya Brooks - Dr. Nikkiya Brooks - The Center, EdD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Nikkiya Brooks - The Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC
Verified Verified
Stonecrest, GA 30038
Your peace of mind is priority. Whether it's depression, low self-esteem, anxiety - whatever gets in the way of your peace, let me walk through it with you. You're not alone, & it is my desire to help you find the peace of mind we all need & deserve. I've spent many years learning about the evidence-based (scientific) approaches that lead to wellness. To be honest, I've spent many years practicing what I preach, & have learned to manage my own anxiety using a few of the techniques. I would be honored to learn about you & what you've survived. I would also be honored to give you the tools to rebuild your mental health.
Your peace of mind is priority. Whether it's depression, low self-esteem, anxiety - whatever gets in the way of your peace, let me walk through it with you. You're not alone, & it is my desire to help you find the peace of mind we all need & deserve. I've spent many years learning about the evidence-based (scientific) approaches that lead to wellness. To be honest, I've spent many years practicing what I preach, & have learned to manage my own anxiety using a few of the techniques. I would be honored to learn about you & what you've survived. I would also be honored to give you the tools to rebuild your mental health.
(803) 962-9251 View (803) 962-9251

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Corrine Jones-Williams, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Corrine Jones-Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lithonia, GA 30038  (Online Only)
Corrine Jones-Williams is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who has been in the vast field of social work for more than nine years. Holding a Bachelor of Social Work degree from Livingstone College and a Master of Social Work from The University of South Carolina – Columbia. She is also certified as an Anger Management Specialist. Corrine possesses knowledge of numerous diagnoses from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV) including Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder(s), psychotic disorders and substance abuse and/or dependency.
Corrine Jones-Williams is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who has been in the vast field of social work for more than nine years. Holding a Bachelor of Social Work degree from Livingstone College and a Master of Social Work from The University of South Carolina – Columbia. She is also certified as an Anger Management Specialist. Corrine possesses knowledge of numerous diagnoses from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV) including Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder(s), psychotic disorders and substance abuse and/or dependency.
(478) 249-4460 View (478) 249-4460
Photo of Trakeeta Patterson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Trakeeta Patterson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30034
Has stress, anxiety, depression or anger been problematic for you? Has your ability to cope affected your daily living and/or relationships? Have you been diagnosed with bipolar schizophrenia or any other illness and has had difficulty accepting and managing your symptoms? Untreated mental illness can easily affect your health and well-being and often cause strain on important relationships. Help is out there! Get ready to live a more healthy and productive life!
Has stress, anxiety, depression or anger been problematic for you? Has your ability to cope affected your daily living and/or relationships? Have you been diagnosed with bipolar schizophrenia or any other illness and has had difficulty accepting and managing your symptoms? Untreated mental illness can easily affect your health and well-being and often cause strain on important relationships. Help is out there! Get ready to live a more healthy and productive life!
(404) 777-4478 View (404) 777-4478
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 Sophia Franklin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sophia Franklin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ellenwood, GA 30294
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.
(404) 476-5062 View (404) 476-5062
Photo of Melonee Gibson-Cabrera - Better Day Counseling Services, LLC, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Better Day Counseling Services, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Ellenwood, GA 30294  (Online Only)
I am trained to address anger issues, anxiety, depression, bipolar, family and couples conflict.
As your therapist, it would be a privilege to help you through life's most challenging moments. I like creating a teamwork approach wherein I bring therapeutic knowledge to the session while my client brings self knowledge and the desire to grow. This collaborative approach seeks to help my client learn to learn, live and love the better within themselves.
I am trained to address anger issues, anxiety, depression, bipolar, family and couples conflict.
As your therapist, it would be a privilege to help you through life's most challenging moments. I like creating a teamwork approach wherein I bring therapeutic knowledge to the session while my client brings self knowledge and the desire to grow. This collaborative approach seeks to help my client learn to learn, live and love the better within themselves.
(404) 341-0375 View (404) 341-0375
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 Suwanne Sancko, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Suwanne Sancko
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30034  (Online Only)
She has comprehensive experience with assessing and counseling adolescents and adults with co-occurring disorders such as depression, anxiety, anger management, work issues, stress, bipolar disorder, etc.
Suwanne is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Georgia. In addition, she is a Certified Master Addiction Counselor. She holds a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Argosy University. She obtained her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Sociology and Women Studies from the State University of New York at Albany. Suwanne trained at an inpatient psychiatric hospital and substance abuse treatment facility.
She has comprehensive experience with assessing and counseling adolescents and adults with co-occurring disorders such as depression, anxiety, anger management, work issues, stress, bipolar disorder, etc.
Suwanne is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Georgia. In addition, she is a Certified Master Addiction Counselor. She holds a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Argosy University. She obtained her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Sociology and Women Studies from the State University of New York at Albany. Suwanne trained at an inpatient psychiatric hospital and substance abuse treatment facility.
(470) 250-3222 View (470) 250-3222
Photo of Kelly Dahlke, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelly Dahlke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30035
Welcome! My name is Kelly Dahlke. I am a licensed clinical social worker in the state of Georgia. I am a client centered therapist who works with clients who are dealing with life transitions, grief and loss, and who may benefit from direction and help outside of their circle of family and friends. I work with clients dealing with a number of disorders, including anxiety and depression, trauma, substance abuse issues, and bipolar disorder.
Welcome! My name is Kelly Dahlke. I am a licensed clinical social worker in the state of Georgia. I am a client centered therapist who works with clients who are dealing with life transitions, grief and loss, and who may benefit from direction and help outside of their circle of family and friends. I work with clients dealing with a number of disorders, including anxiety and depression, trauma, substance abuse issues, and bipolar disorder.
(404) 998-4784 View (404) 998-4784
Photo of Tiffany Smith, EdD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tiffany Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, EdD, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Stone Mountain, GA 30083  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am experienced and trained in assisting individuals dealing with anxiety or stress due to divorce or relationship issues, job loss or career transition, substance abuse, Bipolar disorder, care giver burnout, or anger management.
When home and family are unbalanced it can cause problems in your personal life, take a toll at work, preoccupy your thoughts and make life difficult. Through individual counseling you can enhance the overall quality of life for you and your loved ones. I use professional tools and therapeutic techniques that include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy or Solution Focused Brief Therapy based on your needs assessment during our initial appointment.
I am experienced and trained in assisting individuals dealing with anxiety or stress due to divorce or relationship issues, job loss or career transition, substance abuse, Bipolar disorder, care giver burnout, or anger management.
When home and family are unbalanced it can cause problems in your personal life, take a toll at work, preoccupy your thoughts and make life difficult. Through individual counseling you can enhance the overall quality of life for you and your loved ones. I use professional tools and therapeutic techniques that include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy or Solution Focused Brief Therapy based on your needs assessment during our initial appointment.
(678) 882-1009 View (678) 882-1009
Photo of Huei Chen Cheng, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Huei Chen Cheng
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30034
I am passionate to serve teens, kids, adults from age 5 to 70 who like to learn how to better manage emotions such as depression, anxiety, anger, ADHD, Bipolar, Trauma,Grief, Loss, Dissociation as well as improve communication and relationship between family for parents/children and couples to create abundant life. I have empowered many women men children teens and elderly to live a better life.
I am passionate to serve teens, kids, adults from age 5 to 70 who like to learn how to better manage emotions such as depression, anxiety, anger, ADHD, Bipolar, Trauma,Grief, Loss, Dissociation as well as improve communication and relationship between family for parents/children and couples to create abundant life. I have empowered many women men children teens and elderly to live a better life.
(404) 999-1842 View (404) 999-1842
Photo of Reece Newton, MS, NCC, LAPC, Counselor
Reece Newton
Counselor, MS, NCC, LAPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Stone Mountain, GA 30083  (Online Only)
I have experience working with teens & adults relating to anxiety, depression, ADHD, Bipolar disorders, & clients with past trauma.
Seeing clients for online (virtual) sessions in the state of Georgia. I am a multiculturally focused clinical mental health therapist who is passionate about helping the underdog. I strive to always see the potential in others and how I can empower the individual to thrive in their own lives. You are the expert in your own life, and it is my job to understand what it might feel like to walk in your shoes. My goal is to teach and guide you based on your goals and needs.
I have experience working with teens & adults relating to anxiety, depression, ADHD, Bipolar disorders, & clients with past trauma.
Seeing clients for online (virtual) sessions in the state of Georgia. I am a multiculturally focused clinical mental health therapist who is passionate about helping the underdog. I strive to always see the potential in others and how I can empower the individual to thrive in their own lives. You are the expert in your own life, and it is my job to understand what it might feel like to walk in your shoes. My goal is to teach and guide you based on your goals and needs.
(678) 621-2181 View (678) 621-2181
Photo of Dawn Kentish Bennett - Dawn Bennett, MSW, LICSW, LCSW, MAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dawn Bennett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LCSW, MAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Stockbridge, GA 30281
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.
(770) 233-7474 View (770) 233-7474
Photo of Dr. Tonya Sumner Brown Queen Of Hearts, PsyD, MDiv, LPC, CPCS, DVISII, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Tonya Sumner Brown Queen Of Hearts
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, MDiv, LPC, CPCS, DVISII
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30034
As a Nationally Certified Counselor, Licensed Professional Counselor, Licensed Professional Christian Therapist, Certified Anger Management Specialist, Domestic Violence Intervention Specialist II, Certified Nurturing Programs, I specialize in Conduct/ Oppositional Defiant Disorders, ADHD, PTSD, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, Drug and Alcohol, HIV/AIDS, Cancer and Bereavement.
I have 32 years of counseling experience. I blend Spiritual (when requested) and Clinical Counseling. Many spiritual people across America are confused about where to go for counseling. My husband of 30 years and I have traveled the world with many religions. I have 2 Bachelors, 2 Master of Divinity Degrees, a Post-Masters in Hospital & Hospice Chaplaincy, and a PsyD. in Psychology. I was a Chaplain intern, resident or taught religious programs at many Atlanta hospitals. I am a HIV/AIDS, cancer and bereavement specialist. I bring a multiplicity of clinical specialties and counseling modalities to my clients from 2 and up.
As a Nationally Certified Counselor, Licensed Professional Counselor, Licensed Professional Christian Therapist, Certified Anger Management Specialist, Domestic Violence Intervention Specialist II, Certified Nurturing Programs, I specialize in Conduct/ Oppositional Defiant Disorders, ADHD, PTSD, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, Drug and Alcohol, HIV/AIDS, Cancer and Bereavement.
I have 32 years of counseling experience. I blend Spiritual (when requested) and Clinical Counseling. Many spiritual people across America are confused about where to go for counseling. My husband of 30 years and I have traveled the world with many religions. I have 2 Bachelors, 2 Master of Divinity Degrees, a Post-Masters in Hospital & Hospice Chaplaincy, and a PsyD. in Psychology. I was a Chaplain intern, resident or taught religious programs at many Atlanta hospitals. I am a HIV/AIDS, cancer and bereavement specialist. I bring a multiplicity of clinical specialties and counseling modalities to my clients from 2 and up.
(404) 800-3044 View (404) 800-3044
Photo of Sherita Munroe - Sunflower Counseling Center
Sunflower Counseling Center
Verified Verified
Ellenwood, GA 30294
We specialize in: Anxiety, ADD/ADHD, Depression, PTSD, Grief, Chronic Pain/Illness, Faith-Based, Anger Management, Trauma, LGBTQ+, Personality Disorder, Parenting, Religion, Bipolar, Postpartum Depression, Career, Immigrants/Refugees and more.
Sunflower Counseling exists so that people seeking the highest quality of mental health services, at an affordable rate, can be counseled by professionals who train and specialize in multiple areas of mental health healing. Sunflower Counseling is committed to strengthening every individual, couple, child, and family in our community by providing care and therapeutic services to break the chains of mental and behavioral health stigmas.
We specialize in: Anxiety, ADD/ADHD, Depression, PTSD, Grief, Chronic Pain/Illness, Faith-Based, Anger Management, Trauma, LGBTQ+, Personality Disorder, Parenting, Religion, Bipolar, Postpartum Depression, Career, Immigrants/Refugees and more.
Sunflower Counseling exists so that people seeking the highest quality of mental health services, at an affordable rate, can be counseled by professionals who train and specialize in multiple areas of mental health healing. Sunflower Counseling is committed to strengthening every individual, couple, child, and family in our community by providing care and therapeutic services to break the chains of mental and behavioral health stigmas.
(770) 746-6784 View (770) 746-6784
Photo of Jackey S Mckinney, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jackey S Mckinney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Stockbridge, GA 30281  (Online Only)
I have primarily treated clients with Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, & ADD/ADHD.
Throughout the 20+ years dedicated to the field of Social Work, I have worked toward empowering the lives of Children, Adults, and Families. I have worked as a Mental Health Associate at a Residential Inpatient Treatment Facility, Case Manager for DFACS, to working as the Director of Clinical Services for a Community Based Mental Health agency and owner of a private Mental Health Practice since 2013. I have conducted Adoption studies, Trainer for Foster Parenting program, Individual/Family/Group Counselor, Drug and Alcohol Counselor, and EAP. I have worked with all ages from as young 5, to 80 years of age.
I have primarily treated clients with Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, & ADD/ADHD.
Throughout the 20+ years dedicated to the field of Social Work, I have worked toward empowering the lives of Children, Adults, and Families. I have worked as a Mental Health Associate at a Residential Inpatient Treatment Facility, Case Manager for DFACS, to working as the Director of Clinical Services for a Community Based Mental Health agency and owner of a private Mental Health Practice since 2013. I have conducted Adoption studies, Trainer for Foster Parenting program, Individual/Family/Group Counselor, Drug and Alcohol Counselor, and EAP. I have worked with all ages from as young 5, to 80 years of age.
(404) 620-4636 View (404) 620-4636

See more therapy options for Stonecrest

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.