Bipolar Disorder Therapists in North Chicago, IL
![Photo of Dori Bowling, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4105bf74-b35a-4764-b80e-424adcd8c00b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, I am Dori Bowling, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with nearly 15 years of clinical practice and supervision of other clinicians. I often work with clients that suffer from mood, anxiety, and mild substance abuse issues. I draw from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Person-Centered Therapy, and with couples, I use the Gottman Method. I am a client-centered therapist, so my main goal is to meet you where you are and support you through the change process. No one knows you better than you do, but sometimes you just need a little help figuring it all out.
Hello, I am Dori Bowling, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with nearly 15 years of clinical practice and supervision of other clinicians. I often work with clients that suffer from mood, anxiety, and mild substance abuse issues. I draw from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Person-Centered Therapy, and with couples, I use the Gottman Method. I am a client-centered therapist, so my main goal is to meet you where you are and support you through the change process. No one knows you better than you do, but sometimes you just need a little help figuring it all out.
![Photo of Chinni Chilamkurti, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4063d544-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Chinni Chilamkurti is a licensed, pediatric psychologist with over 25 years of experience providing comprehensive behavioral health services for children and families. She specializes in working with children and families presenting with a wide range of challenges. Her specialty areas include Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorders (ADHD), Anxiety Disorder, Parenting and Co-Parenting. Her approach is pragmatic and collaborative. She firmly believes that resources aimed at enhancing children's emotional and behavioral resiliency are critical to help children succeed.
Dr. Chinni Chilamkurti is a licensed, pediatric psychologist with over 25 years of experience providing comprehensive behavioral health services for children and families. She specializes in working with children and families presenting with a wide range of challenges. Her specialty areas include Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorders (ADHD), Anxiety Disorder, Parenting and Co-Parenting. Her approach is pragmatic and collaborative. She firmly believes that resources aimed at enhancing children's emotional and behavioral resiliency are critical to help children succeed.
![Photo of Glenisha Foreman - Verdure Counseling, MA, LCPC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dc4edc1d-f501-4279-99a7-6ef5710b5180/1/320x400.jpeg)
Verdure Counseling works with a variety of different clients to include Veterans, families, adolescents, and adults. At Verdure counseling, your growth and wellness are our priority. We help those suffering from normal day to day struggles to severe trauma. Our clinicians have experience working with substance abuse, mood disorders, grief, adjustment, depression, identity, etc. Feeling tired, overwhelmed, stuck, or want to just learn more about yourself, Verdure Counseling can help you.
Verdure Counseling works with a variety of different clients to include Veterans, families, adolescents, and adults. At Verdure counseling, your growth and wellness are our priority. We help those suffering from normal day to day struggles to severe trauma. Our clinicians have experience working with substance abuse, mood disorders, grief, adjustment, depression, identity, etc. Feeling tired, overwhelmed, stuck, or want to just learn more about yourself, Verdure Counseling can help you.
![Photo of Patricia Roy - The Chicago Integrative Center for Psychology](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a684ce0-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
When it comes to mental health treatment, our approach is simple and unique: our accomplished team of physicians and therapists work together to diagnose and treat your body, mind and spirit as a whole. We are one of the few practices combining traditional treatment with evidence-based alternative therapies, all under one roof. We are privileged to have changed the lives of many families in Chicago's North Shore, as well as out-of-state and foreign visitors. Our "whole body" approach to treating mental health conditions is supported by clinical studies. These include but are not limited to: Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), diet and exercise, spiritual/social evaluation, yoga and art therapy. Many still focus only on the brain, treating symptoms, not causes. In many cases they over-prescribe medications. While our physicians do prescribe medications as needed, what sets us apart is our commitment to explore all options. We search for root causes and provide the most appropriate treatment, not merely the most convenient one. When we do prescribe, we go the extra mile to customize a plan that minimizes side effects. You and your family deserve the best in healthcare!
When it comes to mental health treatment, our approach is simple and unique: our accomplished team of physicians and therapists work together to diagnose and treat your body, mind and spirit as a whole. We are one of the few practices combining traditional treatment with evidence-based alternative therapies, all under one roof. We are privileged to have changed the lives of many families in Chicago's North Shore, as well as out-of-state and foreign visitors. Our "whole body" approach to treating mental health conditions is supported by clinical studies. These include but are not limited to: Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), diet and exercise, spiritual/social evaluation, yoga and art therapy. Many still focus only on the brain, treating symptoms, not causes. In many cases they over-prescribe medications. While our physicians do prescribe medications as needed, what sets us apart is our commitment to explore all options. We search for root causes and provide the most appropriate treatment, not merely the most convenient one. When we do prescribe, we go the extra mile to customize a plan that minimizes side effects. You and your family deserve the best in healthcare!
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Ryan T Porter, LCPC, CADC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c2934537-420a-4121-ab77-e627b2d4d9ca/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am an LCPC (Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor) therapist who has been serving clients in Lake County for over 20 years. I have worked with families, children, DCFS and foster care, adolescents, couples and adults with varying diagnoses and issues (i.e. major depression, bipolar disorder, self-mutilation, ADHD, trauma/post-traumatic stress disorder, oppositional defiant disorder, personality disorders, and chemical abuse and dependency).
I am an LCPC (Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor) therapist who has been serving clients in Lake County for over 20 years. I have worked with families, children, DCFS and foster care, adolescents, couples and adults with varying diagnoses and issues (i.e. major depression, bipolar disorder, self-mutilation, ADHD, trauma/post-traumatic stress disorder, oppositional defiant disorder, personality disorders, and chemical abuse and dependency).
![Photo of Dr. Patti Kimbel, PsyD, CADC, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2bc79c73-548f-42cf-940a-784916045724/2/320x400.jpeg)
Life can be challenging and sometimes painful. Most clients come to me due to distress or general life dissatisfaction. My goal is to foster a safe place for individuals to share their feelings and their pain. I want clients to feel heard and understood. I feel it is a privilege to help people find ways to cope and empower them through challenging crisis or relationship struggles. My approach is collaborative and I try to build upon a person's strengths. For some clients, I provide tools and suggestions and for others I help them to identify their role in the conflict.
Life can be challenging and sometimes painful. Most clients come to me due to distress or general life dissatisfaction. My goal is to foster a safe place for individuals to share their feelings and their pain. I want clients to feel heard and understood. I feel it is a privilege to help people find ways to cope and empower them through challenging crisis or relationship struggles. My approach is collaborative and I try to build upon a person's strengths. For some clients, I provide tools and suggestions and for others I help them to identify their role in the conflict.
![Photo of Martin McCarthy Jr., Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48709e80-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
All of us -- women and men, young and old, poor, middle class and upscale folks, minorities and majorities -- have to deal with complexity. As a therapist I help heal hurts from the past, assist clients in managing present challenges, and work collaboratively to create more satisfying future lives. The people who see me for individual, couples and family therapy represent a culturally diverse group. Their difficulties range from anxiety and depression, to stress disorders, OCD/OCPD, relationship problems, employment issues, and bereavement. Many of these women and men report quick progress in better managing their personal, family, academic, and work lives.
All of us -- women and men, young and old, poor, middle class and upscale folks, minorities and majorities -- have to deal with complexity. As a therapist I help heal hurts from the past, assist clients in managing present challenges, and work collaboratively to create more satisfying future lives. The people who see me for individual, couples and family therapy represent a culturally diverse group. Their difficulties range from anxiety and depression, to stress disorders, OCD/OCPD, relationship problems, employment issues, and bereavement. Many of these women and men report quick progress in better managing their personal, family, academic, and work lives.
![Photo of Rebecca Anne Esser - Esser Counseling Services, PLLC, MA LCPC, CCTP, CSIP](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7acad362-9b66-4a0e-8e1b-a810fe0ac1c9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Esser Counseling Services, PLLC
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA LCPC, CCTP, CSIP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waukegan, IL 60085 (Online Only)
Accepting new clients, offering online/telehealth services. I practice statewide in Illinois & Florida. I provide affirming therapy to neurodiverse, LGBTQIA, trans, non-traditional relationships such as: poly, swing, kink/BDSM, open communities. In therapy with me you can expect a safe, non-judgmental, trusting space were we explore what is happening in your life. I can be direct yet empathetic and meet you were you are in order for therapy to provide you with the answers you are seeking to lasting change. I believe clients are the experts of themselves.
Accepting new clients, offering online/telehealth services. I practice statewide in Illinois & Florida. I provide affirming therapy to neurodiverse, LGBTQIA, trans, non-traditional relationships such as: poly, swing, kink/BDSM, open communities. In therapy with me you can expect a safe, non-judgmental, trusting space were we explore what is happening in your life. I can be direct yet empathetic and meet you were you are in order for therapy to provide you with the answers you are seeking to lasting change. I believe clients are the experts of themselves.
![Photo of Dr. Vernice L. Wright, LCPC, NCC, CADC, COPD, CAMS-II, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ecc3eb9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Vernice L. Wright
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, NCC, CADC, COPD, CAMS-II
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Waukegan, IL 60085
I have over 25 years of experience in the Mental Health (e.g. mood disorders), Substance Abuse, and counseling profession. I utilize a holistic approach of therapy to the community. Working with individuals of all ages, families, couples, military has always been my passion. I utilize a variety of therapeutic approaches and interventions to meet individual and family needs. I am strongly suited in Person-Centered therapy with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy techniques. The "Truth will set you free" so come to Truth Youth & Family Services, LLC and partner with me in helping you gain mental/emotional freedom to live a productive life.
I have over 25 years of experience in the Mental Health (e.g. mood disorders), Substance Abuse, and counseling profession. I utilize a holistic approach of therapy to the community. Working with individuals of all ages, families, couples, military has always been my passion. I utilize a variety of therapeutic approaches and interventions to meet individual and family needs. I am strongly suited in Person-Centered therapy with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy techniques. The "Truth will set you free" so come to Truth Youth & Family Services, LLC and partner with me in helping you gain mental/emotional freedom to live a productive life.
![Photo of Alice Virgil, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4816bad7-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Alice Virgil
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Bluff, IL 60044
Compassion-focused psychological care is available to you, now. I am committed to strengthening your psychological health, and believe it is a critical part of your overall wellness. As a guardian of your psychological wellness, I listen to you and partner in your care to address psychological and relationship challenges using science-based approaches to therapy that are accessible for your life, and bring about real, lasting change.
Compassion-focused psychological care is available to you, now. I am committed to strengthening your psychological health, and believe it is a critical part of your overall wellness. As a guardian of your psychological wellness, I listen to you and partner in your care to address psychological and relationship challenges using science-based approaches to therapy that are accessible for your life, and bring about real, lasting change.
![Photo of Erin Johnston - PeoplePsych LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6cdec26c-69c0-4ba5-b234-a21e785d76fd/3/320x400.png)
We live in a stressful, complex, and contradictory world. And though you do your best to cope with the chaos around you, sometimes it gets overwhelming. The chaos can make you question your decisions - sometimes it can even make you question who and how you are. Why are there so many obstacles to the life and relationships you want? Shouldn’t there be a clearer path? It can be so hard to navigate through the noise. Craving to connect more fully but end up feeling needy and more alone. Wanting to feel safe, but unease grows and bleeds through. Striving to be authentic, but there is so much noise it is hard to hear your true self.
We live in a stressful, complex, and contradictory world. And though you do your best to cope with the chaos around you, sometimes it gets overwhelming. The chaos can make you question your decisions - sometimes it can even make you question who and how you are. Why are there so many obstacles to the life and relationships you want? Shouldn’t there be a clearer path? It can be so hard to navigate through the noise. Craving to connect more fully but end up feeling needy and more alone. Wanting to feel safe, but unease grows and bleeds through. Striving to be authentic, but there is so much noise it is hard to hear your true self.
![Photo of Kelly Hoaglund-Zumstein, LMFT, EdS, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/06f09c8b-7595-4009-956d-c5eea47244ad/1/320x400.png)
Kelly Hoaglund-Zumstein
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, EdS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waukegan, IL 60079 (Online Only)
Are you feeling overwhelmed, down, or worried all the time? Are you experiencing conflicts in your relationships? Do you or your child have school issues? Are you struggling with your sexuality or gender identity? Do you feel stuck?
Are you feeling overwhelmed, down, or worried all the time? Are you experiencing conflicts in your relationships? Do you or your child have school issues? Are you struggling with your sexuality or gender identity? Do you feel stuck?
![Photo of Lissett Casillas, LPC, CADC, CRC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1bb8601a-5674-4c7d-820b-d6acca21c6d9/1/320x400.png)
Lissett Casillas
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CADC, CRC
Verified Verified
Waukegan, IL 60085 (Online Only)
Are you looking to make positive changes in your life and to partner with a psychotherapist who will truly listen to you, provide a safe place to share your concerns, and will help draw on your inner strength to overcome the challenges you are facing? I am excited to partner with you in your healing journey. I am passionate about helping others and consider myself to be a champion for social justice and working with clients who might come from marginalized communities or face discrimination or harassment. I believe that by partnering with you - drawing on your strength and courage and setting specific goals - I can help you grow.
Are you looking to make positive changes in your life and to partner with a psychotherapist who will truly listen to you, provide a safe place to share your concerns, and will help draw on your inner strength to overcome the challenges you are facing? I am excited to partner with you in your healing journey. I am passionate about helping others and consider myself to be a champion for social justice and working with clients who might come from marginalized communities or face discrimination or harassment. I believe that by partnering with you - drawing on your strength and courage and setting specific goals - I can help you grow.
![Photo of Sonia DuBose - One in a Million, MSW, LCSW, CADC, CTTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/37614852-c458-48e4-a223-a9c924c9479e/1/320x400.jpeg)
One in a Million
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CADC, CTTP
Verified Verified
Waukegan, IL 60085
Hola! My name is Sonia and I am a bilingual trauma therapist, fluent in both Spanish and in English. I am culturally sensitive and have had history in the lower economic side of the spectrum. Because of this, I do my best to reach those that feel misunderstood like I once did. No need to change your language or terminology. Just say what you have to say. Let’s work today for a better tomorrow.
Hola! My name is Sonia and I am a bilingual trauma therapist, fluent in both Spanish and in English. I am culturally sensitive and have had history in the lower economic side of the spectrum. Because of this, I do my best to reach those that feel misunderstood like I once did. No need to change your language or terminology. Just say what you have to say. Let’s work today for a better tomorrow.
![Photo of Kenneth Munoz, LSW](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/27a69a2c-1e7c-4514-bd72-67423b62e80a/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have over 8 years of experience and am bilingual in English and Spanish, and bi-cultural in Latino and American Cultures. My goal and approach is to create a safe, compassionate, and supportive environment to assist you in feeling relief and empowering you to overcome those challenges in your life that are affecting you. Tengo más de 8 años de experiencia y soy bilingüe en inglés y español, y bicultural en las culturas latina y estadounidense. Mi objetivo y enfoque es crear un entorno seguro, compasivo y de apoyo para ayudarlo a sentir alivio y empoderarlo para superar los desafíos en su vida que lo están afectando.
I have over 8 years of experience and am bilingual in English and Spanish, and bi-cultural in Latino and American Cultures. My goal and approach is to create a safe, compassionate, and supportive environment to assist you in feeling relief and empowering you to overcome those challenges in your life that are affecting you. Tengo más de 8 años de experiencia y soy bilingüe en inglés y español, y bicultural en las culturas latina y estadounidense. Mi objetivo y enfoque es crear un entorno seguro, compasivo y de apoyo para ayudarlo a sentir alivio y empoderarlo para superar los desafíos en su vida que lo están afectando.
![Photo of Jill Kreller, MA, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f6759f2-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a therapist with over ten years of experience providing assessment, crisis intervention and psychotherapy to individuals in the community. I assist individuals as they find the best solutions to dealing with mental health concerns, life transitions and accomplishment of goals.I believe that all individuals have within them the skills needed to lead an actualized, fulfilling and meaningful life.I will tailor therapy to your individual characteristics and work with you to find interventions that best suit your needs, goals and skill set.
I am a therapist with over ten years of experience providing assessment, crisis intervention and psychotherapy to individuals in the community. I assist individuals as they find the best solutions to dealing with mental health concerns, life transitions and accomplishment of goals.I believe that all individuals have within them the skills needed to lead an actualized, fulfilling and meaningful life.I will tailor therapy to your individual characteristics and work with you to find interventions that best suit your needs, goals and skill set.
![Photo of Sophia Shlain - 360 Degrees Wellness and Coaching, LCSW, LCPC, MSW, CRADC, CADC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ad10e311-641c-4346-9b5f-5322fa78d0a7/2/320x400.png)
360 Degrees Wellness and Coaching
Counselor, LCSW, LCPC, MSW, CRADC, CADC
Verified Verified
Lake Bluff, IL 60044
We are a group of board certified psychotherapists and executive coaches specializing in behavioral health. Our highly experienced staff averages more than 18 years experience in their respective fields: Cognitive- Behavioral Therapy, Family Systems, Solution- Focused, Collaborative and Health-Oriented Therapies. We can help you with: Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Low self-esteem, Postpartum depression, Martial or family issues, School problems, Parenting issues, Chronic pain, Grief, Trauma and managing negative feelings.
We are a group of board certified psychotherapists and executive coaches specializing in behavioral health. Our highly experienced staff averages more than 18 years experience in their respective fields: Cognitive- Behavioral Therapy, Family Systems, Solution- Focused, Collaborative and Health-Oriented Therapies. We can help you with: Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Low self-esteem, Postpartum depression, Martial or family issues, School problems, Parenting issues, Chronic pain, Grief, Trauma and managing negative feelings.
![Photo of Richard Kneip - Great Lakes Psychology Group - Gurnee, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d6253dd6-58f7-4575-8ee8-ca69e775c561/1/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting new patients! Whether you are new to therapy or looking to start again, Great Lakes Psychology Group - Gurnee understands that starting therapy can be overwhelming. That’s why we simplified the process with Find My Therapist. Get started by telling us about yourself, your location, and your insurance. Once you find your best-fit therapist, pick a time that works for you and book an appointment instantly through their calendar. Find My Therapist aims to make your journey as stress-free as possible, so you can start feeling better sooner.
Accepting new patients! Whether you are new to therapy or looking to start again, Great Lakes Psychology Group - Gurnee understands that starting therapy can be overwhelming. That’s why we simplified the process with Find My Therapist. Get started by telling us about yourself, your location, and your insurance. Once you find your best-fit therapist, pick a time that works for you and book an appointment instantly through their calendar. Find My Therapist aims to make your journey as stress-free as possible, so you can start feeling better sooner.
![Photo of Amber J Dalton, MA, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e6a513b7-a29b-4fbb-bfad-cec588206549/2/320x400.jpeg)
I understand that the decision to participate in therapy can be uncomfortable and daunting for many people, so creating a genuine client-therapist relationship and a safe space is a priority of mine. I strive to make the therapeutic process as stress-free and enjoyable as possible. I view therapy as a collaborative process that is founded on the individual’s strengths and goals and respect that each client is unique in their experiences and situations. I am passionate about working with couples, and client's struggling with anxiety, personal identity, and helping to challenge and change negative thoughts and behaviors.
I understand that the decision to participate in therapy can be uncomfortable and daunting for many people, so creating a genuine client-therapist relationship and a safe space is a priority of mine. I strive to make the therapeutic process as stress-free and enjoyable as possible. I view therapy as a collaborative process that is founded on the individual’s strengths and goals and respect that each client is unique in their experiences and situations. I am passionate about working with couples, and client's struggling with anxiety, personal identity, and helping to challenge and change negative thoughts and behaviors.
![Photo of Sushma Cheturvedula, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ec760a0b-b69c-4872-afde-7d59c38f8148/3/320x400.jpeg)
Sushma Cheturvedula
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Waukegan, IL 60085 (Online Only)
There comes a time in each of our lives where we feel inadequate, anxious, depressed, heartbroken, lonely, confused, and in need of a helping hand. If your ultimate goal is to strengthen your emotional wellbeing, find peace with your past, and live the life you always wanted, you have found the right Therapist. Whatever is overwhelming you today, whether it’s a tough breakup, grief, abuse, work related stress, relationship issues, past trauma, or simply finding the motivation to get out of bed and have a productive day, help is a phone call away. My role is to listen, empower growth, and help you become the best version of yourself.
There comes a time in each of our lives where we feel inadequate, anxious, depressed, heartbroken, lonely, confused, and in need of a helping hand. If your ultimate goal is to strengthen your emotional wellbeing, find peace with your past, and live the life you always wanted, you have found the right Therapist. Whatever is overwhelming you today, whether it’s a tough breakup, grief, abuse, work related stress, relationship issues, past trauma, or simply finding the motivation to get out of bed and have a productive day, help is a phone call away. My role is to listen, empower growth, and help you become the best version of yourself.
See more therapy options for North Chicago
Nearby Bipolar Disorder Therapists Searches for North Chicago
- Deerfield
- Grayslake
- Gurnee
- Highland Park
- Lake Bluff
- Lake Forest
- Libertyville
- Lincolnshire
- Mundelein
- Vernon Hills
- Waukegan
- Zion
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.