Bipolar Disorder Therapists in La Grange Park, IL

Photo of Candice Sherry Collins, Candice Sherry Collins, LCPC, CSAT, Counselor
Candice Sherry Collins
Counselor, Candice Sherry Collins, LCPC, CSAT
Verified Verified
La Grange Park, IL 60526  (Online Only)
I work with clients confronting issues surrounding sex addiction and other compulsive behaviors and/or substance abuse. The partners and family members of those confronting addiction often have a unique trauma experience and I am passionate about helping all those impacted. My work with this population has taught me that many flawed solutions present as a result of trauma. I work diligently to assist clients in discovering and understanding their historical experiences and how those experiences contribute to the unmanageability or pain in their current lives.
I work with clients confronting issues surrounding sex addiction and other compulsive behaviors and/or substance abuse. The partners and family members of those confronting addiction often have a unique trauma experience and I am passionate about helping all those impacted. My work with this population has taught me that many flawed solutions present as a result of trauma. I work diligently to assist clients in discovering and understanding their historical experiences and how those experiences contribute to the unmanageability or pain in their current lives.
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Photo of Linda Harper, LCPC, LMFT, Counselor
Linda Harper
Counselor, LCPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
La Grange Park, IL 60526  (Online Only)
Life can be stressful particularly in these unpredictable times. You may be finding that worries are hard to turn off during the day and also keep you up at night. Perhaps you are becoming irritable with your family, friends or coworkers. Or rather than feeling anxious you might be noticing that you are often tired. You might have less interest in attending the extended family party or going out with your partner. I can help you to get a handle on your worries, regain energy, and to feel more grounded and able to manage what comes your way.
Life can be stressful particularly in these unpredictable times. You may be finding that worries are hard to turn off during the day and also keep you up at night. Perhaps you are becoming irritable with your family, friends or coworkers. Or rather than feeling anxious you might be noticing that you are often tired. You might have less interest in attending the extended family party or going out with your partner. I can help you to get a handle on your worries, regain energy, and to feel more grounded and able to manage what comes your way.
(708) 274-7666 View (708) 274-7666
Photo of Kristen Dunnett, PsyD, Psychologist
Kristen Dunnett
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
La Grange Park, IL 60526
“The mind is everything. What you think you become.” - Buddha. Are your thoughts racing constantly? Do you often find yourself believing the negative thoughts? Many people find it difficult to escape their inner negative dialogue, which often become a part of our behavioral patterns. I am a clinical psychologist who has over 14 years experience working with individuals, couples, and families struggling to quiet their thoughts, change unproductive behavioral patterns, and determine the best direction forward in their lives.
“The mind is everything. What you think you become.” - Buddha. Are your thoughts racing constantly? Do you often find yourself believing the negative thoughts? Many people find it difficult to escape their inner negative dialogue, which often become a part of our behavioral patterns. I am a clinical psychologist who has over 14 years experience working with individuals, couples, and families struggling to quiet their thoughts, change unproductive behavioral patterns, and determine the best direction forward in their lives.
(708) 905-2312 View (708) 905-2312
Photo of Cory Grad, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cory Grad
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
La Grange Park, IL 60526
Cory Grad is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois with five years of experience. He has a Bachelor of Arts in English from Loyola University and a Master of Social Work from Aurora University. Cory believes the mind can be a paradise or a prison, depending on the direction we steer it. He feels the meeting between client and therapist is a sacred time in which both parties work collaboratively to help the client heal, learn, and grow. By the time treatment concludes, the client is not “fixed” but rather, returning to the flow of life.
Cory Grad is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois with five years of experience. He has a Bachelor of Arts in English from Loyola University and a Master of Social Work from Aurora University. Cory believes the mind can be a paradise or a prison, depending on the direction we steer it. He feels the meeting between client and therapist is a sacred time in which both parties work collaboratively to help the client heal, learn, and grow. By the time treatment concludes, the client is not “fixed” but rather, returning to the flow of life.
(708) 556-2811 View (708) 556-2811
Photo of Sarah Lesniak, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Lesniak
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
La Grange Park, IL 60526
Sarah Lesniak, LSW, looks at the therapeutic process as a collaborative relationship. She meets clients halfway if they are willing to meet her halfway. Sarah treats clients as people and not their disorders, and she strives to provide a safe, comfortable place for them to open up. Sarah earned an MSW from University of St. Francis and has extensive experience working with adolescents and adults struggling with eating disorders, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, and PTSD. She currently treats clients age 9 and up.
Sarah Lesniak, LSW, looks at the therapeutic process as a collaborative relationship. She meets clients halfway if they are willing to meet her halfway. Sarah treats clients as people and not their disorders, and she strives to provide a safe, comfortable place for them to open up. Sarah earned an MSW from University of St. Francis and has extensive experience working with adolescents and adults struggling with eating disorders, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, and PTSD. She currently treats clients age 9 and up.
(708) 726-6577 View (708) 726-6577
Photo of Sandra Armendariz, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sandra Armendariz
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
La Grange Park, IL 60526
Sandra Armendariz, LPC, is an empathic and compassionate therapist who offers each client guidance, support, and knowledge as they discover their inner wisdom and resilience. Sandra earned a graduate degree in clinical mental health from Adler University and a doctorate in clinical psychology from Central University of Ecuador. Fluent in both Spanish and English, Sandra worked around the world as a therapist and graduate level teacher. She helps teens and adults with depression, anxiety, PTSD, relationship conflicts, domestic abuse, and more.
Sandra Armendariz, LPC, is an empathic and compassionate therapist who offers each client guidance, support, and knowledge as they discover their inner wisdom and resilience. Sandra earned a graduate degree in clinical mental health from Adler University and a doctorate in clinical psychology from Central University of Ecuador. Fluent in both Spanish and English, Sandra worked around the world as a therapist and graduate level teacher. She helps teens and adults with depression, anxiety, PTSD, relationship conflicts, domestic abuse, and more.
(708) 834-7832 View (708) 834-7832
Photo of Kendra Caple, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kendra Caple
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
La Grange Park, IL 60526
Kendra Caple, LPC, helps clients recognize their strengths and achieve goals. She works with children, adolescents, adults, and families struggling with ADHD, anxiety, depression, anger management, domestic violence, and more. Kendra received an undergraduate degree from Northern Illinois University and a graduate degree from National Louis University. Throughout her mental health career, she worked in non-profit, youth development, crisis intervention, case management, and more. In therapy, Kendra uses DBT, CBT, and various other approaches to help clients in identify and modify behavior.
Kendra Caple, LPC, helps clients recognize their strengths and achieve goals. She works with children, adolescents, adults, and families struggling with ADHD, anxiety, depression, anger management, domestic violence, and more. Kendra received an undergraduate degree from Northern Illinois University and a graduate degree from National Louis University. Throughout her mental health career, she worked in non-profit, youth development, crisis intervention, case management, and more. In therapy, Kendra uses DBT, CBT, and various other approaches to help clients in identify and modify behavior.
(708) 694-3873 View (708) 694-3873
Photo of Anjelica Joy, LCPC, PMH-C, Licensed Professional Counselor
Anjelica Joy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
La Grange Park, IL 60526
Anjelica Joy, LCPC, PMH-C, is a licensed clinical professional counselor and a certified perinatal mental health counselor. Anjelica creates a safe and comfortable space for clients to find their strengths during challenging times. By highlighting these strengths while increasing personal awareness, she guides clients on their journey and helps them become the people they want to be.
Anjelica Joy, LCPC, PMH-C, is a licensed clinical professional counselor and a certified perinatal mental health counselor. Anjelica creates a safe and comfortable space for clients to find their strengths during challenging times. By highlighting these strengths while increasing personal awareness, she guides clients on their journey and helps them become the people they want to be.
(708) 634-5765 View (708) 634-5765

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Sarah Prendergast, LCPC, Counselor
Sarah Prendergast
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Westchester, IL 60154
I work with adolescents, young adults and adults who are struggling with depression, generalized anxiety, panic attacks, social anxiety, ADHD, addiction, Bipolar disorder, emotional/behavioral disorders, grief/loss, trauma, stress, relationship issues and adjustment to developmental and life transitions.
My therapeutic approach is supportive, engaging, and collaborative. I work to foster trust and compassion with every client and family I see using a more interactive approach. My goal is to help my clients identify goals and learn strategies to achieve these goals through techniques tailored specifically for them. I also enjoy using humor in my sessions to engage clients and help them feel at ease. I have 15 years experience working in mental health and a Master of Arts degree from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology in Clinical Psychology with a specialization in Counseling.
I work with adolescents, young adults and adults who are struggling with depression, generalized anxiety, panic attacks, social anxiety, ADHD, addiction, Bipolar disorder, emotional/behavioral disorders, grief/loss, trauma, stress, relationship issues and adjustment to developmental and life transitions.
My therapeutic approach is supportive, engaging, and collaborative. I work to foster trust and compassion with every client and family I see using a more interactive approach. My goal is to help my clients identify goals and learn strategies to achieve these goals through techniques tailored specifically for them. I also enjoy using humor in my sessions to engage clients and help them feel at ease. I have 15 years experience working in mental health and a Master of Arts degree from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology in Clinical Psychology with a specialization in Counseling.
(630) 984-1610 x1 View (630) 984-1610 x1
Photo of Stefani Kozlowski, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stefani Kozlowski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Grange, IL 60525
Stefani Kozlowski, LCSW, is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who specializes in working with adolescents and adults with varying mental health concerns including mood and anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, ADHD, adjustment disorders, and trauma-related disorders. Stefani earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Roosevelt University and obtained her Master’s Degree in Social Work from Simmons University.
Stefani Kozlowski, LCSW, is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who specializes in working with adolescents and adults with varying mental health concerns including mood and anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, ADHD, adjustment disorders, and trauma-related disorders. Stefani earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Roosevelt University and obtained her Master’s Degree in Social Work from Simmons University.
(708) 315-2664 View (708) 315-2664
Photo of Jennifer C Froemel - Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC, MA, LPC, LSW, LCPC, LCSW, Counselor
Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC
Counselor, MA, LPC, LSW, LCPC, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hinsdale, IL 60521
We have been trained to work with a variety of issues-Depression, Anger, Anxiety (group and individual formats), Bipolar disorder, Trauma, Child and Adolescent work (males and females), Sexual Abuse, Play Therapy, Family therapy, Cultural issues (adapting to the western culture), and Gay/Lesbian family issues.
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward and Integrative approach and have our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tends toward a systems based approach using behavior methods.
We have been trained to work with a variety of issues-Depression, Anger, Anxiety (group and individual formats), Bipolar disorder, Trauma, Child and Adolescent work (males and females), Sexual Abuse, Play Therapy, Family therapy, Cultural issues (adapting to the western culture), and Gay/Lesbian family issues.
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward and Integrative approach and have our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tends toward a systems based approach using behavior methods.
(773) 312-3612 View (773) 312-3612
Photo of Tiffany D Sanders - Sanders and Associates, PhD, Psychologist
Sanders and Associates
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Westchester, IL 60154
We assess the following areas: Pre-Surgical Psychological Screenings, Learning Disabilities, Attention Disorders, Depression & Bipolar Disorders, Anxiety, Asperger's Syndrome, and Developmental Delays.
Do you feel sad, anxious, and irritable and don't know why? Do you lack energy and motivation to accomplish even minor tasks at home, work, or school? Are you struggling to put your life back in order? Please consider talking with a psychologist or counselor to help get you through these difficult moments. Our clinicians use researched based strategies to help clients identify challenges, barriers, and obstacles in their lives which prevent them from achieving personal and professional goals, achieving greater self-worth, or control of their life.
We assess the following areas: Pre-Surgical Psychological Screenings, Learning Disabilities, Attention Disorders, Depression & Bipolar Disorders, Anxiety, Asperger's Syndrome, and Developmental Delays.
Do you feel sad, anxious, and irritable and don't know why? Do you lack energy and motivation to accomplish even minor tasks at home, work, or school? Are you struggling to put your life back in order? Please consider talking with a psychologist or counselor to help get you through these difficult moments. Our clinicians use researched based strategies to help clients identify challenges, barriers, and obstacles in their lives which prevent them from achieving personal and professional goals, achieving greater self-worth, or control of their life.
(312) 818-3392 View (312) 818-3392
Photo of Sarah Ahmed, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Sarah Ahmed
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
La Grange, IL 60525
Being a culturally competent therapist is extremely important to me. As the daughter of immigrants, this experience has helped me to get in touch with my own beliefs and value systems. Therefore, I am able to help clients connect to their own values and take committed action steps in service of those values. I work primarily with adults and specialize in working with emerging adults who may be undergoing life transitions. I also have experience working with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, grief and loss, severe or chronic mental illness and trauma.
Being a culturally competent therapist is extremely important to me. As the daughter of immigrants, this experience has helped me to get in touch with my own beliefs and value systems. Therefore, I am able to help clients connect to their own values and take committed action steps in service of those values. I work primarily with adults and specialize in working with emerging adults who may be undergoing life transitions. I also have experience working with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, grief and loss, severe or chronic mental illness and trauma.
(708) 249-3255 View (708) 249-3255
Photo of Theresa Wier - Theresa Wier, Psy.D., PsyD, LPC, Psychologist
Theresa Wier, Psy.D.
Psychologist, PsyD, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Grange, IL 60525
My experience includes working within various environments including a hospital setting, community mental health center, private practice, and educational settings with those who suffer from anxiety, depression, high functioning autism, ADHD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and personality disorders.
Hello. You are probably reading this as a result of an issue that has been on your mind and are hoping to find some peace or come to a resolution. I am a licensed clinical psychologist with a personable, down-to-earth approach willing to partner with you through your current struggle. I support a safe, non-judgmental therapeutic environment to discuss the thoughts and feelings that may be troubling for you. I have helped individuals, couples, and families with a vast array of mental health issues using a psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, or a family systems approach.
My experience includes working within various environments including a hospital setting, community mental health center, private practice, and educational settings with those who suffer from anxiety, depression, high functioning autism, ADHD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and personality disorders.
Hello. You are probably reading this as a result of an issue that has been on your mind and are hoping to find some peace or come to a resolution. I am a licensed clinical psychologist with a personable, down-to-earth approach willing to partner with you through your current struggle. I support a safe, non-judgmental therapeutic environment to discuss the thoughts and feelings that may be troubling for you. I have helped individuals, couples, and families with a vast array of mental health issues using a psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, or a family systems approach.
(708) 669-0746 View (708) 669-0746
Photo of Sam Kaminski, LCPC, Counselor
Sam Kaminski
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hinsdale, IL 60521
I specialize in the treatment of Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, OCD, ADHD, and Substance Use Disorders using evidenced-based treatment modalities including: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), and Motivational Interviewing (MI).
There are moments in life where reaching out for support is the hardest and most courageous thing we can do. I'm here to validate that strength and empower you to sustain those meaningful steps on your journey. I believe building a safe, non-judgmental, trusting, and collaborative therapist-client relationship is an essential part of the therapeutic process. I view clients from an empowerment-focused, holistic, person-centered, multicultural, and unconditionally positive perspective.
I specialize in the treatment of Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, OCD, ADHD, and Substance Use Disorders using evidenced-based treatment modalities including: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), and Motivational Interviewing (MI).
There are moments in life where reaching out for support is the hardest and most courageous thing we can do. I'm here to validate that strength and empower you to sustain those meaningful steps on your journey. I believe building a safe, non-judgmental, trusting, and collaborative therapist-client relationship is an essential part of the therapeutic process. I view clients from an empowerment-focused, holistic, person-centered, multicultural, and unconditionally positive perspective.
(331) 244-5335 View (331) 244-5335
Photo of Danielle Hanisch, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Danielle Hanisch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Willowbrook, IL 60527
Danielle Hanisch is a Licensed Social Worker in Illinois who obtained her master's degree in Social Work with a specialization in Clinical Social Work from Aurora University. Danielle believes in the Biopsychosocial model to evaluate and counsel multiple areas that contribute to distressing thoughts and emotions. She strives to create a comfortable and safe environment where she can connect with individuals therapeutically and provide treatment by meeting the individual where they are at.
Danielle Hanisch is a Licensed Social Worker in Illinois who obtained her master's degree in Social Work with a specialization in Clinical Social Work from Aurora University. Danielle believes in the Biopsychosocial model to evaluate and counsel multiple areas that contribute to distressing thoughts and emotions. She strives to create a comfortable and safe environment where she can connect with individuals therapeutically and provide treatment by meeting the individual where they are at.
(630) 349-5568 View (630) 349-5568
Margaret Pechota
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
La Grange, IL 60525
Are you feeling that issues in your life are too stressful or painful to cope with on your own? Do you struggle with depression, anxiety, guilt, anger (your own or some else's), mood swings, trauma (rape, combat, incest, other) OCD, relationship issues, or other emotional difficulties. Maybe you are wondering about your purpose in life or struggling with your spirituality. You might feel you are alone in your suffering. I am a Clinical Psychologist dedicated to providing a compassionate and respectful environment where you can explore these and other life issues that are causing you distress.
Are you feeling that issues in your life are too stressful or painful to cope with on your own? Do you struggle with depression, anxiety, guilt, anger (your own or some else's), mood swings, trauma (rape, combat, incest, other) OCD, relationship issues, or other emotional difficulties. Maybe you are wondering about your purpose in life or struggling with your spirituality. You might feel you are alone in your suffering. I am a Clinical Psychologist dedicated to providing a compassionate and respectful environment where you can explore these and other life issues that are causing you distress.
(630) 964-4552 View (630) 964-4552
Photo of Zak Strine, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Zak Strine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hinsdale, IL 60521
In the words of James Hillman: “If the oak is in the acorn - what’s in you?” Are you struggling with self-esteem, self-worth, or self-compassion? Are you feeling as if the pain and challenges you experience are hindering you from feeling whole and reaching your true potential? If so, I am here for you on your journey toward wellness. I believe each individual is a whole and multidimensional being, and I strive to provide services that help individuals realize and unlock the wisdom and healing potential that already lies dormant within them. I am here to help you grow and change in ways that are adaptable for you.
In the words of James Hillman: “If the oak is in the acorn - what’s in you?” Are you struggling with self-esteem, self-worth, or self-compassion? Are you feeling as if the pain and challenges you experience are hindering you from feeling whole and reaching your true potential? If so, I am here for you on your journey toward wellness. I believe each individual is a whole and multidimensional being, and I strive to provide services that help individuals realize and unlock the wisdom and healing potential that already lies dormant within them. I am here to help you grow and change in ways that are adaptable for you.
(708) 742-6591 View (708) 742-6591
Photo of Marianne Di Vittorio - Breakthrough Counseling & Clinical Services, LCPC, CADC, CGRP, NCC, Counselor
Breakthrough Counseling & Clinical Services
Counselor, LCPC, CADC, CGRP, NCC
Verified Verified
La Grange, IL 60525
My goal at Breakthrough Counseling is to meet you exactly where you are in your stress, brokenness, anxiety, depression, marital conflict, grief, addiction, etc. YOU are not alone. You may be going through a challenging time in your life but there is REAL HOPE. It starts with you taking the first step by calling me to help you. My therapeutic approach is individualized and will vary based on your needs, but it will always be genuine and respectful. My goal is to help you heal from the inside out, develop coping skills that will bring real change to your life.
My goal at Breakthrough Counseling is to meet you exactly where you are in your stress, brokenness, anxiety, depression, marital conflict, grief, addiction, etc. YOU are not alone. You may be going through a challenging time in your life but there is REAL HOPE. It starts with you taking the first step by calling me to help you. My therapeutic approach is individualized and will vary based on your needs, but it will always be genuine and respectful. My goal is to help you heal from the inside out, develop coping skills that will bring real change to your life.
(630) 457-1684 View (630) 457-1684
Photo of Adam James Selkirk, PsyD, Psychologist
Adam James Selkirk
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Grange, IL 60525
I approach my clinical work with a grounding in my deeply-held belief that all human beings have infinite worth. My goal for all individuals with whom I work is to support each person's path towards experiencing that worth within themselves. Having worked in the mental health field for the past 16 years with children, adolescents, adults, and families, I have utilized this philosophy to guide the process of therapy with individuals having a wide range of challenges, from autism spectrum disorders to struggles with mood and anxiety to relationship problems.
I approach my clinical work with a grounding in my deeply-held belief that all human beings have infinite worth. My goal for all individuals with whom I work is to support each person's path towards experiencing that worth within themselves. Having worked in the mental health field for the past 16 years with children, adolescents, adults, and families, I have utilized this philosophy to guide the process of therapy with individuals having a wide range of challenges, from autism spectrum disorders to struggles with mood and anxiety to relationship problems.
(773) 825-5078 View (773) 825-5078

See more therapy options for La Grange Park

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.