Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Chicago Heights, IL
![Photo of Krista Woods, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cf80715-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Krista Woods
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago Heights, IL 60411
Have you been struggling with feelings of sadness, anxiety or panic attacks? Or are you tired of people using you or struggling to get motivated? I provide compassionate care while providing the tools and information to help you heal. Other challenges like drugs/alcohol, bipolar disorder; or if you're not sure what the problem is but need help and support, I will work with you to help you live a better, healthier life. My extensive experience also includes helping children, teens and adults impacted by foster care, have been adopted, are birth parents, or who are adoptive/ foster parents.
Have you been struggling with feelings of sadness, anxiety or panic attacks? Or are you tired of people using you or struggling to get motivated? I provide compassionate care while providing the tools and information to help you heal. Other challenges like drugs/alcohol, bipolar disorder; or if you're not sure what the problem is but need help and support, I will work with you to help you live a better, healthier life. My extensive experience also includes helping children, teens and adults impacted by foster care, have been adopted, are birth parents, or who are adoptive/ foster parents.
![Photo of Tina Lott, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9dd2107d-ed5a-429e-98cf-390576076872/1/320x400.png)
Hi, my name is Dr. Tina Lott. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor as well as a Certified Alcohol & other Drug Counselor. I hold a BC-TMH certification and can provide quality services via Telehealth. My focus area is working with those with persistent mental health conditions who desire to learn how to cope with symptoms to live their best lives. I also specialize in working with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, identity issues, and self-esteem. My primary theoretical approach is Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy (REBT). I am passionate about working with clients to help them reach their most optimal selves.
Hi, my name is Dr. Tina Lott. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor as well as a Certified Alcohol & other Drug Counselor. I hold a BC-TMH certification and can provide quality services via Telehealth. My focus area is working with those with persistent mental health conditions who desire to learn how to cope with symptoms to live their best lives. I also specialize in working with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, identity issues, and self-esteem. My primary theoretical approach is Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy (REBT). I am passionate about working with clients to help them reach their most optimal selves.
![Photo of George M Brassea - True Heights Treatment, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d517e04-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Embarking on this journey together, we'll delve deep into understanding your essence. Through thoughtful questioning, we'll unravel the intricacies of your systems and behavioral patterns. Exploring your family roots will be a recurring theme, shedding light on your upbringing's influence. From discussing your sleeping habits to dissecting matters of the heart, no topic is off-limits, including the inevitable conversation about mortality. Our collaboration will peel back layers of your human experience, granting you the invaluable opportunity for introspection.
Embarking on this journey together, we'll delve deep into understanding your essence. Through thoughtful questioning, we'll unravel the intricacies of your systems and behavioral patterns. Exploring your family roots will be a recurring theme, shedding light on your upbringing's influence. From discussing your sleeping habits to dissecting matters of the heart, no topic is off-limits, including the inevitable conversation about mortality. Our collaboration will peel back layers of your human experience, granting you the invaluable opportunity for introspection.
![Photo of Sandra Lee Anderson - Tranquil Journey, PLLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f98ff95-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Tranquil Journey, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago Heights, IL 60411
Life is full of challenges. We often have a plan and destination then something unexpected comes along to knock us off our path. We can choose to learn from these obstacles or allow them to hinder our growth. This practice will help you take a realistic look at your circumstances and assist you in working towards healthy resolutions and support healing.
Life is full of challenges. We often have a plan and destination then something unexpected comes along to knock us off our path. We can choose to learn from these obstacles or allow them to hinder our growth. This practice will help you take a realistic look at your circumstances and assist you in working towards healthy resolutions and support healing.
![Photo of Jennifer Ashley Baker, MA, LCPC, TCYM-YT, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d5ae5d16-3215-4b4b-8c20-a3c09f99ea52/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Ashley Baker
Counselor, MA, LCPC, TCYM-YT, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago Heights, IL 60411
The decision to begin a therapeutic journey can be daunting yet richly rewarding. I strive to create a safe, collaborative, and supportive space to gain a deeper understanding of yourself, your experiences and personal dynamics to promote a more balanced and fulfilling life. I support my clients in their goals by utilizing a mindful, relational and reflective approach. I integrate neuroscience and somatic based practices with equine facilitated and eco-therapy (ie.. horses and nature). I am committed to a therapeutic process that fosters self-compassion, creativity, and resiliency, while valuing diversity and authenticity.
The decision to begin a therapeutic journey can be daunting yet richly rewarding. I strive to create a safe, collaborative, and supportive space to gain a deeper understanding of yourself, your experiences and personal dynamics to promote a more balanced and fulfilling life. I support my clients in their goals by utilizing a mindful, relational and reflective approach. I integrate neuroscience and somatic based practices with equine facilitated and eco-therapy (ie.. horses and nature). I am committed to a therapeutic process that fosters self-compassion, creativity, and resiliency, while valuing diversity and authenticity.
![Photo of Lindoria C Storey, PhD, LCSW, CPAIP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/72434d2e-0642-4a11-bb1b-44520138ac6f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lindoria C Storey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, CPAIP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago Heights, IL 60411 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Sometimes life's issues are difficult to navigate, and having someone to help you work through your concerns is important. Please allow me the opportunity to assist you in your journey.
Sometimes life's issues are difficult to navigate, and having someone to help you work through your concerns is important. Please allow me the opportunity to assist you in your journey.
![Photo of Ann Sherri - Comprehensive Services of Illinois, LCSW, SAP, CADC, CPLC, CWLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8c2581ad-cacf-4b7c-b518-712d522c8d8a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Comprehensive Services of Illinois
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SAP, CADC, CPLC, CWLC
Verified Verified
Chicago Heights, IL 60411
Welcome to Comprehensive Services of Illinois! CSI staff members are looking forward to servicing you. They are phenomenal, providing comprehensive, high quality, accessible, affordable and effective services to children, adolescent and adults. Professional services are tailored to individual, couple and family need. Their goals are to assist, empower, and respond to your needs. While demonstrating the Comprehensive Services of Illinois philosophy: commitment, compassion, confidentiality, dignity, empathy, empowerment, excellence, genuineness, purpose, respect, support and understanding. Call today to schedule an appointment.
Welcome to Comprehensive Services of Illinois! CSI staff members are looking forward to servicing you. They are phenomenal, providing comprehensive, high quality, accessible, affordable and effective services to children, adolescent and adults. Professional services are tailored to individual, couple and family need. Their goals are to assist, empower, and respond to your needs. While demonstrating the Comprehensive Services of Illinois philosophy: commitment, compassion, confidentiality, dignity, empathy, empowerment, excellence, genuineness, purpose, respect, support and understanding. Call today to schedule an appointment.
![Photo of Jayla Harrison, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/81e81e4c-452a-494d-a623-dd94d6d9adcd/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jayla Harrison
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago Heights, IL 60411 (Online Only)
I believe that the relationship you and I create is the most important support along your therapeutic journey. If you are insightful, ready and willing to do the work despite how hard it may become, and not afraid to ask for help, you are in the right place. My goal is to utilize my training, interpersonal, and therapeutic skills to help YOU grow and overcome behavior patterns that prevent you from living a successful life with healthy relationships. I love working with teenagers, POC, young adults, and college-aged individuals with anxiety, depression, and relationship issues. I want to help you reach your fullest potential!
I believe that the relationship you and I create is the most important support along your therapeutic journey. If you are insightful, ready and willing to do the work despite how hard it may become, and not afraid to ask for help, you are in the right place. My goal is to utilize my training, interpersonal, and therapeutic skills to help YOU grow and overcome behavior patterns that prevent you from living a successful life with healthy relationships. I love working with teenagers, POC, young adults, and college-aged individuals with anxiety, depression, and relationship issues. I want to help you reach your fullest potential!
![Photo of Mia Foote, LCSW, BSC, Reiki 2, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dba7a333-68c4-491f-b442-9485c8f6253f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mia Foote
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BSC, Reiki 2
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago Heights, IL 60411
Not accepting new clients
I have experience working with the prenatal and postpartum community; adolescent and older adult community; LGBT community; bipolar disorder; anxiety disorder; depressive disorder with mild to sever safety presentations; post traumatic stress disorder; conduct disorders, psychotic disorder (I.
Everyone needs a hype man, a cheerleader, or a person to lend an ear when going through life changes. Well this is where I come in to provide all that and more! As your therapist I will give you support, but also challenge you. In general the goal is to evolve and feel better, but that can only happen through collaboration and you putting in the work :)
I have experience working with the prenatal and postpartum community; adolescent and older adult community; LGBT community; bipolar disorder; anxiety disorder; depressive disorder with mild to sever safety presentations; post traumatic stress disorder; conduct disorders, psychotic disorder (I.
Everyone needs a hype man, a cheerleader, or a person to lend an ear when going through life changes. Well this is where I come in to provide all that and more! As your therapist I will give you support, but also challenge you. In general the goal is to evolve and feel better, but that can only happen through collaboration and you putting in the work :)
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Rosa V. King, MA, LCPC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f8330cb3-8cbe-4678-b15a-6c6fbbe4971a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Rosa V. King
Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Homewood, IL 60430
Waitlist for new clients
I have over 11 years of experience working with adults, couples, and teens with different diagnosis such as anxiety, depression, motherhood, parenting, grief, childhood trauma, ADHD, college/career stress, bipolar disorder, etc.
My approach to life is eclectic. We can only control the NOW. We can plan for the future and learn to deal with the past. I help my clients (teens, parents (girlmomhere), adults & couples) learn to accept/like or love their current life. No one said life would be easy, but as long as we are breathing, we can learn how to make the best of it. I have an art background, so I use horticultural therapy (plants) and art projects with clients. I also educate clients on fitness and nutrition. I am a problem solver, so we will figure things out together. What, when, why and how?! We can dig into the past, work on now or plan for the future.
I have over 11 years of experience working with adults, couples, and teens with different diagnosis such as anxiety, depression, motherhood, parenting, grief, childhood trauma, ADHD, college/career stress, bipolar disorder, etc.
My approach to life is eclectic. We can only control the NOW. We can plan for the future and learn to deal with the past. I help my clients (teens, parents (girlmomhere), adults & couples) learn to accept/like or love their current life. No one said life would be easy, but as long as we are breathing, we can learn how to make the best of it. I have an art background, so I use horticultural therapy (plants) and art projects with clients. I also educate clients on fitness and nutrition. I am a problem solver, so we will figure things out together. What, when, why and how?! We can dig into the past, work on now or plan for the future.
![Photo of Lynn Wachtel-Shapiro, LCSW, CADC, CIRT, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3beec1d7-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/6/320x400.jpeg)
Lynn Wachtel-Shapiro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC, CIRT, ACSW
Verified Verified
Tinley Park, IL 60477
Are you sad? Feel worried? Do you feel disconnected from your partner? Don't say no enough? Do you feel lost and sad after a death? I have specialized training in couples work{relationship issues} Addictions {codependency} I have extensive experience in treating Grief and Loss issues, Bipolar issues , Depression, Self esteem, Anxiety, ADD, ADHD, Assertiveness issues, Adjustment issues, Anger management, Self harm issues, and Coping skills. My goal is to provide a supportive, respectful, caring environment to help all clients achieve their fullest potential I have had client"s report relief and progress after only a few sessions
Are you sad? Feel worried? Do you feel disconnected from your partner? Don't say no enough? Do you feel lost and sad after a death? I have specialized training in couples work{relationship issues} Addictions {codependency} I have extensive experience in treating Grief and Loss issues, Bipolar issues , Depression, Self esteem, Anxiety, ADD, ADHD, Assertiveness issues, Adjustment issues, Anger management, Self harm issues, and Coping skills. My goal is to provide a supportive, respectful, caring environment to help all clients achieve their fullest potential I have had client"s report relief and progress after only a few sessions
![Photo of Jessica Moreno, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5d3c024d-c79c-4a0f-9618-4fa7812499ff/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello! My name is Jessica Moreno, and I currently hold my LCSW. My approach to therapy is individualized and holistic. I have experience providing ACT, DBT, trauma-focused therapy, and crisis therapy. I have worked with people who have been diagnosed with depression, anxiety, Bipolar disorder, PTSD, eating disorders, etc. I'm comfortable treating the previously noted diagnosis. My approach to therapy is individualized and holistic. I have experience providing ACT, DBT, trauma-focused therapy, and crisis therapy. try to create an open and interactive environment in which clients can express themselves.
Hello! My name is Jessica Moreno, and I currently hold my LCSW. My approach to therapy is individualized and holistic. I have experience providing ACT, DBT, trauma-focused therapy, and crisis therapy. I have worked with people who have been diagnosed with depression, anxiety, Bipolar disorder, PTSD, eating disorders, etc. I'm comfortable treating the previously noted diagnosis. My approach to therapy is individualized and holistic. I have experience providing ACT, DBT, trauma-focused therapy, and crisis therapy. try to create an open and interactive environment in which clients can express themselves.
![Photo of Becky Kalvelage-Roth, PsyD, CADC, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4270825a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
My work includes treating a variety of clinical disorders: Pain, depression, anxiety, bipolar, posttraumatic stress disorder, substance abuse, anger management, domestic violence, relational issues, adolescent issues, delinquency etc.
Are you in pain from an injury. Do you feel your family is falling apart? Is there domestic violence in your home? Have you lost interest and pleasure in the things you used to do? Do you get angry over the little things in life and feel out of control? Are you dependent or abuse alcohol and/ or drugs and it is interfering with your personal life or job? You are not alone many people suffer from these issues.The decision to seek therapy could be a new beginning for you.Treatment is always confidential.
My work includes treating a variety of clinical disorders: Pain, depression, anxiety, bipolar, posttraumatic stress disorder, substance abuse, anger management, domestic violence, relational issues, adolescent issues, delinquency etc.
Are you in pain from an injury. Do you feel your family is falling apart? Is there domestic violence in your home? Have you lost interest and pleasure in the things you used to do? Do you get angry over the little things in life and feel out of control? Are you dependent or abuse alcohol and/ or drugs and it is interfering with your personal life or job? You are not alone many people suffer from these issues.The decision to seek therapy could be a new beginning for you.Treatment is always confidential.
![Photo of Melody Wilson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6f7ffe51-078b-4b00-91c1-570404cb2f45/1/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Melody Wilson, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in both Illinois and Indiana with over 16 years of clinical experience working with adults with Anger Management, Coping Skills, Grief, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Life Coaching, Parenting, Schizophrenia, Stress, Self Esteem, and Life Transitions. I use various therapy modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, and all those which are adequate for my client’s mental health needs. I firmly believe that support is not a weakness but a need!
My name is Melody Wilson, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in both Illinois and Indiana with over 16 years of clinical experience working with adults with Anger Management, Coping Skills, Grief, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Life Coaching, Parenting, Schizophrenia, Stress, Self Esteem, and Life Transitions. I use various therapy modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, and all those which are adequate for my client’s mental health needs. I firmly believe that support is not a weakness but a need!
![Photo of Jennifer Meyer, MA, LCPC, LMHC, NCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ed2b181-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Meyer
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Lansing, IL 60438
When the path of your life turns in an unexpected direction you may feel uncertain, overwhelmed or lost. Your circumstances and emotions might seem unpredictable and unfamiliar. Together we can move toward an understanding of what has happened and how you might adapt. Your challenges may become an opportunity for you to learn more about who you are and what unique strengths you possess that will endure and help in dealing with future obstacles.
When the path of your life turns in an unexpected direction you may feel uncertain, overwhelmed or lost. Your circumstances and emotions might seem unpredictable and unfamiliar. Together we can move toward an understanding of what has happened and how you might adapt. Your challenges may become an opportunity for you to learn more about who you are and what unique strengths you possess that will endure and help in dealing with future obstacles.
![Photo of Brad Novak, MA, LCPC, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4915d7e3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Telehealth sessions available; I currently have openings. With our everyday stressors, life will leave you feeling as if you are unreachable & helpless. I'm honored to work with ALL people that are looking for support & desire a change in their life. I support clients who are dealing with anxiety, depression, OCD, eating disorders (including binge eating disorder) to reconnect my clients with their lives & to get unstuck, this I'm committed to. There are many struggles that often contribute greatly to our anxiety & make it challenging for us to focus on the here & now. I offer credit counseling. My You Tube Channel: bit.ly/3MOGd2D
Telehealth sessions available; I currently have openings. With our everyday stressors, life will leave you feeling as if you are unreachable & helpless. I'm honored to work with ALL people that are looking for support & desire a change in their life. I support clients who are dealing with anxiety, depression, OCD, eating disorders (including binge eating disorder) to reconnect my clients with their lives & to get unstuck, this I'm committed to. There are many struggles that often contribute greatly to our anxiety & make it challenging for us to focus on the here & now. I offer credit counseling. My You Tube Channel: bit.ly/3MOGd2D
![Photo of Nicholas Barry, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fa5eafc6-5b8f-4338-b178-e479be4afab3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nicholas Barry is a Licensed Social Worker in Illinois who has been practicing since 2017. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Christian Ministry, double majoring in Pastoral Counseling and Biblical Studies, at Urshan College. After completing his undergraduate studies, Nicholas embarked on a bi-vocational journey through graduate school. He has earned a Master of Social Work through Florida State University and is completing a Master of Theological Studies at Urshan Graduate School of Theology. Nicholas takes a truly holistic approach to working with his clients. This means that he takes a bio-psycho-social-spiritual assessment.
Nicholas Barry is a Licensed Social Worker in Illinois who has been practicing since 2017. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Christian Ministry, double majoring in Pastoral Counseling and Biblical Studies, at Urshan College. After completing his undergraduate studies, Nicholas embarked on a bi-vocational journey through graduate school. He has earned a Master of Social Work through Florida State University and is completing a Master of Theological Studies at Urshan Graduate School of Theology. Nicholas takes a truly holistic approach to working with his clients. This means that he takes a bio-psycho-social-spiritual assessment.
![Photo of Cathy Jackson, MA, NCC, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/480828e3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Under the best of circumstances life is not easy. Sometimes we face challenges in our lives and just need someone to listen, care about, and guide us. There's always hope for change and if you are willing to put in the work, there is someone willing to help and that someone is me. Having the courage to take the pathway of change is the first step. Together lets work to make a difference.
Under the best of circumstances life is not easy. Sometimes we face challenges in our lives and just need someone to listen, care about, and guide us. There's always hope for change and if you are willing to put in the work, there is someone willing to help and that someone is me. Having the courage to take the pathway of change is the first step. Together lets work to make a difference.
![Photo of Jennifer Schindler, MA, LPC Intern](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f4089c6c-1590-416f-8524-434276320da0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hi, I'm Jennifer. Counselor, PhD student, novice researcher, and lover of all of things spiritual, mindful, and Jungian. Oh, and I am the creator of One Fcking Breath, a 52-card mindfulness- based affirmation deck that was designed to resonate with the feminine experience in ways that empower and encourage self-reflection and growth.
Hi, I'm Jennifer. Counselor, PhD student, novice researcher, and lover of all of things spiritual, mindful, and Jungian. Oh, and I am the creator of One Fcking Breath, a 52-card mindfulness- based affirmation deck that was designed to resonate with the feminine experience in ways that empower and encourage self-reflection and growth.
![Photo of Mary Elizabeth Cherullo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f3450977-28b5-404e-b264-ebf5c74c463e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mary Elizabeth Cherullo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tinley Park, IL 60477
When life becomes unfocused, or the weight of stress too much to carry, it is the resilient who seek clarity and work to better distribute the weight. It is the evolutionary elite who are able to view change and stress as an opportunity for growth and adaptation.
When life becomes unfocused, or the weight of stress too much to carry, it is the resilient who seek clarity and work to better distribute the weight. It is the evolutionary elite who are able to view change and stress as an opportunity for growth and adaptation.
See more therapy options for Chicago Heights
Nearby Bipolar Disorder Therapists Searches for Chicago Heights
- Calumet City
- Country Club Hills
- Crete
- Flossmoor
- Glenwood
- Hazel Crest
- Homewood
- Lansing
- Matteson
- Olympia Fields
- Park Forest
- South Holland
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.