Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Warrenville, IL
![Photo of Annie Rosas - Conventions Psychiatry & Counseling](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1342d171-7001-40d0-ba48-3d8db5a463c8/3/320x400.jpeg)
Offering in-office NeuroStar TMS treatments! TMS is a non-drug, non-invasive treatment for Depression. Conventions Psychiatry & Counseling offers mental health treatment for those suffering from Depressive Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Bipolar Disorder, Addictions, and Personality Disorders. We also treat those struggling with life transitions, grief, or stress. Conventions Psychiatry & Counseling has been a trusted resource for mental health treatment in Naperville, IL and the surrounding area, for 20 years. Our practice has grown into a one-stop treatment facility, treating all ages and offering a variety of services.
Offering in-office NeuroStar TMS treatments! TMS is a non-drug, non-invasive treatment for Depression. Conventions Psychiatry & Counseling offers mental health treatment for those suffering from Depressive Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Bipolar Disorder, Addictions, and Personality Disorders. We also treat those struggling with life transitions, grief, or stress. Conventions Psychiatry & Counseling has been a trusted resource for mental health treatment in Naperville, IL and the surrounding area, for 20 years. Our practice has grown into a one-stop treatment facility, treating all ages and offering a variety of services.
![Photo of Cynthia M Stafford, MA, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/28eb2adc-fd2d-40e1-a8a8-b3cd9ffa89d8/2/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in the treatment of anxiety and panic disorders; depression, bipolar disorders and post-partum depression; eating disorders, including anorexia, bulimia, and compulsive overeating; weight management and healthy lifestyle coaching; trauma recovery, including sexual abuse; self-esteem and self-image issues; marriage and relationship counseling; and divorce recovery.
Are you struggling in your personal life or relationships? Counseling is the first step to becoming healthy and fulfilled. I have 30+ years of experience walking alongside people of all ages, including couples and families, to help them on their journey of personal growth. We will work cooperatively together to reach your goals through proven therapeutic interventions, including stress management, anger management, communication skills, emotion regulation, relaxation techniques, cognitive/behavioral therapy, & EMDR. Let's get started working toward your goals.
I specialize in the treatment of anxiety and panic disorders; depression, bipolar disorders and post-partum depression; eating disorders, including anorexia, bulimia, and compulsive overeating; weight management and healthy lifestyle coaching; trauma recovery, including sexual abuse; self-esteem and self-image issues; marriage and relationship counseling; and divorce recovery.
Are you struggling in your personal life or relationships? Counseling is the first step to becoming healthy and fulfilled. I have 30+ years of experience walking alongside people of all ages, including couples and families, to help them on their journey of personal growth. We will work cooperatively together to reach your goals through proven therapeutic interventions, including stress management, anger management, communication skills, emotion regulation, relaxation techniques, cognitive/behavioral therapy, & EMDR. Let's get started working toward your goals.
![Photo of Jennifer Piester, SSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/409f616c-7a52-4915-9a5b-b4aae06594a9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Piester
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, SSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Warrenville, IL 60555 (Online Only)
Life can throw unexpected challenges our way, but you don't have to face them alone. As a therapist, I'm here to provide support and help you enhance your positive skills while learning new ones. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, work/school stress, grief, or just need a boost, I'm here to assist you. With a Master's in Social Work from Aurora University and expertise as a Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist, I'm ready to guide you towards positive change. Let's work together to overcome obstacles and achieve well-being.
Life can throw unexpected challenges our way, but you don't have to face them alone. As a therapist, I'm here to provide support and help you enhance your positive skills while learning new ones. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, work/school stress, grief, or just need a boost, I'm here to assist you. With a Master's in Social Work from Aurora University and expertise as a Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist, I'm ready to guide you towards positive change. Let's work together to overcome obstacles and achieve well-being.
![Photo of Amy Jo Ceshker, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/74d107c1-8e31-42f3-9b0f-95c421c9fc10/1/320x400.jpeg)
Amy Jo Ceshker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Warrenville, IL 60555 (Online Only)
Are you finding it hard to deal with strong feelings of loss? Feeling a bit nervous, having trouble focusing, or struggling to sleep? Do you feel a bit numb or stuck? Meet Amy, with more than 25 years of experience, who can assist you in understanding and handling your moods. She offers a unique approach to discovering your life's path, all while providing unconditional positive regard in a safe emotional space. Get the support and guidance you need with Amy today!
Are you finding it hard to deal with strong feelings of loss? Feeling a bit nervous, having trouble focusing, or struggling to sleep? Do you feel a bit numb or stuck? Meet Amy, with more than 25 years of experience, who can assist you in understanding and handling your moods. She offers a unique approach to discovering your life's path, all while providing unconditional positive regard in a safe emotional space. Get the support and guidance you need with Amy today!
![Photo of Ciara Ward, MSW, LCSW, CAMS-II, MCR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/015c5ca7-bfda-4ab2-aef3-69e8af32c1b6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ciara Ward
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CAMS-II, MCR
Verified Verified
Warrenville, IL 60555
All therapy starts with collaboration at it's core. Seeking therapy takes a great deal of courage and we commend you for considering therapy as a tool for self-exploration and growth. Many find that building a supportive and interactive relationship with their therapist contributes to the overall effectiveness of therapy. We offer a safe and non-judgmental environment, with a commitment to placing the highest priority on your well-being. Our services are offered to adults and teens, specializing in difficulties related to: stress, coping with life's changes, anxiety, trauma, identity, body image, self-esteem, and LGBTQ+.
All therapy starts with collaboration at it's core. Seeking therapy takes a great deal of courage and we commend you for considering therapy as a tool for self-exploration and growth. Many find that building a supportive and interactive relationship with their therapist contributes to the overall effectiveness of therapy. We offer a safe and non-judgmental environment, with a commitment to placing the highest priority on your well-being. Our services are offered to adults and teens, specializing in difficulties related to: stress, coping with life's changes, anxiety, trauma, identity, body image, self-esteem, and LGBTQ+.
![Photo of Yolanda Olaya, PsyD, MPH, MScOB, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e8e13240-2ee1-4df7-b6b1-f61978157b80/1/320x400.jpeg)
I strive to provide each patient with an individualized care that is evidence based and delivered with respect, compassion and education. My goal is to work with you as a partner to be able to achieve your goals. I enjoy working with with high risk adolescents who may be diagnosed with mood disorders, anxiety disorders, attention and executive functioning deficits, as well as Panic disorder, and or trauma. I also specialize in treating young women with peripartum mood disorders, GLBTQ youth, and families going through divorce. https://www.dryolandao.com/Appointments.en.html or https://doxy.me/dryolandao
I strive to provide each patient with an individualized care that is evidence based and delivered with respect, compassion and education. My goal is to work with you as a partner to be able to achieve your goals. I enjoy working with with high risk adolescents who may be diagnosed with mood disorders, anxiety disorders, attention and executive functioning deficits, as well as Panic disorder, and or trauma. I also specialize in treating young women with peripartum mood disorders, GLBTQ youth, and families going through divorce. https://www.dryolandao.com/Appointments.en.html or https://doxy.me/dryolandao
![Photo of Suzanne M. Pinto, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/011f480c-274a-4eb6-9656-a14b4cd50879/1/320x400.jpeg)
Making the decision to change is often difficult as there is comfort in holding onto old ways of thinking or patterns of behavior even when they are ineffective and no longer serve us well. My goal is to help guide you through the change or healing process. My therapeutic approach is supportive and collaborative. I work with adults and older adolescents with anxiety, depression, and mood disorders. I also have significant experience working with individuals experiencing life transitions, relationship/marital issues, stress management or coping skill difficulties, grief and loss, abuse and trauma, and substance use disorders.
Making the decision to change is often difficult as there is comfort in holding onto old ways of thinking or patterns of behavior even when they are ineffective and no longer serve us well. My goal is to help guide you through the change or healing process. My therapeutic approach is supportive and collaborative. I work with adults and older adolescents with anxiety, depression, and mood disorders. I also have significant experience working with individuals experiencing life transitions, relationship/marital issues, stress management or coping skill difficulties, grief and loss, abuse and trauma, and substance use disorders.
![Photo of Sandra Krummenacher, MS, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0e8eca60-c38d-43af-8abd-631187a9238e/1/320x400.jpeg)
When you feel that something in your life needs to change, getting started can be overwhelming. My desire is to help identify strengths and explore solutions in a safe, non-judgmental atmosphere. It is important to me that you feel free to share your feelings. I enjoy helping adults, couples, and teens cope with the normal yet at times painful transitions in life such as marriage, parenting, blending families, adolescence, divorce,empty nest, relational issues, and self-esteem struggles that plague people with histories of abuse (physical, sexual, or emotional).
When you feel that something in your life needs to change, getting started can be overwhelming. My desire is to help identify strengths and explore solutions in a safe, non-judgmental atmosphere. It is important to me that you feel free to share your feelings. I enjoy helping adults, couples, and teens cope with the normal yet at times painful transitions in life such as marriage, parenting, blending families, adolescence, divorce,empty nest, relational issues, and self-esteem struggles that plague people with histories of abuse (physical, sexual, or emotional).
![Photo of Kay La Jeunesse, MS, LCPC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d52a777-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kay La Jeunesse
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Warrenville, IL 60555
I offer a calming and gentle approach to clients that enhances their comfort levels and allows for open discussion of problem areas. Together, we investigate the factors that cause and contribute to their issues. Together, we investigate coping skills and factors that will diminish symptoms and work toward resolution of these life issues. In the words of one client: "If what I have to say doesn't upset you, then maybe it isn't as bad as I feared." Mood disorders, autism spectrum disorders, relationship conflicts as well as loss and grief issues are among my treatment specialties.
I offer a calming and gentle approach to clients that enhances their comfort levels and allows for open discussion of problem areas. Together, we investigate the factors that cause and contribute to their issues. Together, we investigate coping skills and factors that will diminish symptoms and work toward resolution of these life issues. In the words of one client: "If what I have to say doesn't upset you, then maybe it isn't as bad as I feared." Mood disorders, autism spectrum disorders, relationship conflicts as well as loss and grief issues are among my treatment specialties.
![Photo of Alexa Sengstock, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2b31f483-de27-45fa-ba12-b66341c90af8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Seeking therapy is something that takes courage. It serves as a first step to inner healing and self-discovery, which, despite its potential discomfort, ultimately paves the way for exceptional personal growth, fulfillment, and life improvement. I plan to help my clients by establishing a safe and secure space where they can show vulnerability without judgment, and with full support.
Seeking therapy is something that takes courage. It serves as a first step to inner healing and self-discovery, which, despite its potential discomfort, ultimately paves the way for exceptional personal growth, fulfillment, and life improvement. I plan to help my clients by establishing a safe and secure space where they can show vulnerability without judgment, and with full support.
![Photo of Dr. Lenore Tinics, PsyD, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/41a67342-294b-498a-a91d-deb0b472604f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Everyday we are presented with challenges. It is your choice as to how you will manage them. As a mental health provider, I can help you create a strategy and path that will allow you to take control and manage your life so that you feel more satisfied and happier. Together we will work toward realistic goals that are set by you and I will work with you at a pace that is comfortable for you. Because everyone is different, I offer evidence-based psychotherapy that is customized to you and your needs. I have experience working with diverse clients in a variety of ages children through the senior community.
Everyday we are presented with challenges. It is your choice as to how you will manage them. As a mental health provider, I can help you create a strategy and path that will allow you to take control and manage your life so that you feel more satisfied and happier. Together we will work toward realistic goals that are set by you and I will work with you at a pace that is comfortable for you. Because everyone is different, I offer evidence-based psychotherapy that is customized to you and your needs. I have experience working with diverse clients in a variety of ages children through the senior community.
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![Photo of Anne J Dickinson, PsyD, LCPC, CADC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b70ddd35-13d8-4813-8cb2-7108ce23e18d/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor and Certified in Hypnosis. I received my Master's degree in Clinical Psychology from Benedictine University in 2004 and my Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Adler University in 2012. I work with ages 11 and older and have over 29 years experience with adults, adolescents and families.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor and Certified in Hypnosis. I received my Master's degree in Clinical Psychology from Benedictine University in 2004 and my Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Adler University in 2012. I work with ages 11 and older and have over 29 years experience with adults, adolescents and families.
![Photo of Angela Pezza Conway, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5eb6b418-c3dc-464d-87d8-13fb262b3f33/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who has over 15 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults and families, in a variety of mental health settings including: hospitals, private practice, therapeutic day schools, and community mental health. I specialize in the treatment of Mood, Personality, Trauma and Attachment disorder. My special interests include Attachment Disorder, ADHD, Issues regarding Divorce, Adoption Issues, Personality Disorders, Parent Education/Training, Post-Partum Depression and Transgender issues.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who has over 15 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults and families, in a variety of mental health settings including: hospitals, private practice, therapeutic day schools, and community mental health. I specialize in the treatment of Mood, Personality, Trauma and Attachment disorder. My special interests include Attachment Disorder, ADHD, Issues regarding Divorce, Adoption Issues, Personality Disorders, Parent Education/Training, Post-Partum Depression and Transgender issues.
![Photo of Nina Appadurai - Naperville Psychological Associates LLC, PsyD, MBA, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4803b697-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Naperville Psychological Associates LLC
Psychologist, PsyD, MBA
Verified Verified
Warrenville, IL 60555
I work with clients to help them live their valued life using Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and mindfulness skills. Change is constant and is part of life. With change comes stress and anxiety. Rather than simply reacting, which leads to a spiral of further stress and anxiety, I teach my clients coping tools so they are able to respond in a way that is productive and in their control, minimizing stress and anxiety. I specialize in working with clients struggling with depression, anxiety and other mood disorders, OCD, ADHD, postpartum issues and insomnia.
I work with clients to help them live their valued life using Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and mindfulness skills. Change is constant and is part of life. With change comes stress and anxiety. Rather than simply reacting, which leads to a spiral of further stress and anxiety, I teach my clients coping tools so they are able to respond in a way that is productive and in their control, minimizing stress and anxiety. I specialize in working with clients struggling with depression, anxiety and other mood disorders, OCD, ADHD, postpartum issues and insomnia.
![Photo of Martin Lemon - Clarus Center](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d87841a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Clarus Center is a vibrant community of independent mental health and wellness professionals dedicated to helping individuals and families find greater health and well-being. Clients often arrive seeking relief from depression or anxiety, trauma, relationship challenges, stress, or health concerns. They desire care that is holistic, integrative, solution-focused and cutting edge. The seasoned professionals at Clarus Center have many years of experience in a variety of psychological and health disciplines and are able to create unique treatment approaches that target the mind, body and spirit. Individuals and families seeking services at Clarus Center report experiencing positive symptom relief and a strong sense of well-being and peace.
Clarus Center is a vibrant community of independent mental health and wellness professionals dedicated to helping individuals and families find greater health and well-being. Clients often arrive seeking relief from depression or anxiety, trauma, relationship challenges, stress, or health concerns. They desire care that is holistic, integrative, solution-focused and cutting edge. The seasoned professionals at Clarus Center have many years of experience in a variety of psychological and health disciplines and are able to create unique treatment approaches that target the mind, body and spirit. Individuals and families seeking services at Clarus Center report experiencing positive symptom relief and a strong sense of well-being and peace.
![Photo of Tasheika Nash, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dc3dd267-c561-4961-999e-e9db2855d077/2/320x400.jpeg)
Do you struggle with vulnerability? Are you struggling with creating or maintaining healthy relationships? Are you ruminating on negative thoughts or situations? Do you struggle with imposter syndrome? Are you dealing with transgenerational trauma? Are you a first responder and feeling as if, nobody understands you? Are you experiencing emotional abuse from someone you love? Sometimes life events, our environment, or trauma can impact our mental health. I am dedicated to providing healing to people who have been through traumatic or stressful events. My goal is to improve your self-awareness and increase increase self-reflection.
Do you struggle with vulnerability? Are you struggling with creating or maintaining healthy relationships? Are you ruminating on negative thoughts or situations? Do you struggle with imposter syndrome? Are you dealing with transgenerational trauma? Are you a first responder and feeling as if, nobody understands you? Are you experiencing emotional abuse from someone you love? Sometimes life events, our environment, or trauma can impact our mental health. I am dedicated to providing healing to people who have been through traumatic or stressful events. My goal is to improve your self-awareness and increase increase self-reflection.
![Photo of Olesia Shalayska, PsyD, CDP, C-DBT, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/25a7f785-4469-48a3-bf18-8ed5af2feabc/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a licensed clinician psychologist who has experience working with diverse client needs. I have treated clients with mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, eating disorders and comorbid substance abuse. My internship and post-doctoral training has provided me with unique training in providing therapy and neuropsychological assessment to patients with dementia, brain injury, stroke, cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis and other medical conditions that are comorbid with psychiatric illnesses.
I am a licensed clinician psychologist who has experience working with diverse client needs. I have treated clients with mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, eating disorders and comorbid substance abuse. My internship and post-doctoral training has provided me with unique training in providing therapy and neuropsychological assessment to patients with dementia, brain injury, stroke, cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis and other medical conditions that are comorbid with psychiatric illnesses.
![Photo of Sheila M Wakely - Grace Counseling of Dupage, LCPC, CADC, MS, CEDS, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cbb2193-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I AM A LICENSED CLINICAL PROFESSIONAL COUNSELOR CERTIFIED IN TREATMENT OF ADDICTIONS, TRAUMA AND FAMILY COUNSELING RELATED TO PAST TRAUMA AND DIVORCE. CLIENTS WHO ARE SEEKING UNDERSTANDING AND TREATMENT OF PAST CHILDHOOD TRAUMA WHICH CONTRIBUTES AND RELATES TO CURRENT RELATIONAL STRUGGLES ARE MY SPECIALTY. I STRONGLY BELIEVE COUNSELING IS A PARTNERSHIP FORMED THROUGH INSIGHT BASED ON TRUST OVER THE COURSE OF TIME. ULTIMATELY PERSONAL LIBERTY AND RELATIONAL RESTORATION IS THE END GOAL OF THE THERAPEUTIC PROCESS.
I AM A LICENSED CLINICAL PROFESSIONAL COUNSELOR CERTIFIED IN TREATMENT OF ADDICTIONS, TRAUMA AND FAMILY COUNSELING RELATED TO PAST TRAUMA AND DIVORCE. CLIENTS WHO ARE SEEKING UNDERSTANDING AND TREATMENT OF PAST CHILDHOOD TRAUMA WHICH CONTRIBUTES AND RELATES TO CURRENT RELATIONAL STRUGGLES ARE MY SPECIALTY. I STRONGLY BELIEVE COUNSELING IS A PARTNERSHIP FORMED THROUGH INSIGHT BASED ON TRUST OVER THE COURSE OF TIME. ULTIMATELY PERSONAL LIBERTY AND RELATIONAL RESTORATION IS THE END GOAL OF THE THERAPEUTIC PROCESS.
![Photo of Starlene Kelley, LCSW, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51f812f0-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
One of my ideal clients would be identified as a Highly Sensitive Person by Elaine Aron, PhD. It can be difficult to know how best to guard your energy while still being available for the people and activities you love. Another client might share they would like to reach their fullest potential and would appreciate a trainer of sorts to do so. Someone else's needs might center around increased ability to maintain emotional stability, even when disagreeing with a loved one.
One of my ideal clients would be identified as a Highly Sensitive Person by Elaine Aron, PhD. It can be difficult to know how best to guard your energy while still being available for the people and activities you love. Another client might share they would like to reach their fullest potential and would appreciate a trainer of sorts to do so. Someone else's needs might center around increased ability to maintain emotional stability, even when disagreeing with a loved one.
![Photo of Amber Mitchell - Connect Online Counseling, LCSW, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e19f92b1-5e94-473f-86ad-55eec3f3d295/2/320x400.jpeg)
Connect Online Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
Warrenville, IL 60555 (Online Only)
Amber is a passionate, qualified, and experienced therapist who practices CBT, Motivational Interviewing, DBT, and Solution Focused Therapy techniques. Her compassion drives her to deliver a safe, welcoming, and comfortable environment to the clients without judgment, promoting steady healing. During her professional career, she has worked with hundreds of clients between the ages of 4 to 70 years. She has extensive experience in providing counseling for substance abuse and mental health.
Amber is a passionate, qualified, and experienced therapist who practices CBT, Motivational Interviewing, DBT, and Solution Focused Therapy techniques. Her compassion drives her to deliver a safe, welcoming, and comfortable environment to the clients without judgment, promoting steady healing. During her professional career, she has worked with hundreds of clients between the ages of 4 to 70 years. She has extensive experience in providing counseling for substance abuse and mental health.
See more therapy options for Warrenville
Nearby Bipolar Disorder Therapists Searches for Warrenville
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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.