Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Brownstown, MI

Photo of Manuel Manrique - Michigan Modern Psychology, PhD, LP, Psychologist
Michigan Modern Psychology
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Brownstown, MI 48183
At Michigan Modern Psychology (MMP) we offer therapy and evaluations for individuals of all ages in a private and comfortable setting. With multiple therapists on staff to meet your clinical needs, we provide comprehensive and well-rounded treatment for children, individuals, couples and families. We are committed to providing the latest in clinical innovations from the behavioral sciences within a psychodynamic context. The practice first opened in 1996 and continues to grow.
At Michigan Modern Psychology (MMP) we offer therapy and evaluations for individuals of all ages in a private and comfortable setting. With multiple therapists on staff to meet your clinical needs, we provide comprehensive and well-rounded treatment for children, individuals, couples and families. We are committed to providing the latest in clinical innovations from the behavioral sciences within a psychodynamic context. The practice first opened in 1996 and continues to grow.
(313) 307-4338 View (313) 307-4338
Photo of Chris Skinner, MS, TLLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Chris Skinner
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MS, TLLP
Verified Verified
Brownstown, MI 48183
Chris is a masters level Clinical Psychologist and utilizes an eclectic therapeutic approach, tailoring treatment to each client’s specific needs and goals. Chris is trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and various other psychotherapeutic modalities. He specializes in anxiety and depressive disorders and has experience working with adults suffering from chronic illness, co-occurring disorders, mood disorders, interpersonal issues, and severe mental illness. Chris is currently accepting new clients at the Michigan Modern Psychology Brownstown location.
Chris is a masters level Clinical Psychologist and utilizes an eclectic therapeutic approach, tailoring treatment to each client’s specific needs and goals. Chris is trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and various other psychotherapeutic modalities. He specializes in anxiety and depressive disorders and has experience working with adults suffering from chronic illness, co-occurring disorders, mood disorders, interpersonal issues, and severe mental illness. Chris is currently accepting new clients at the Michigan Modern Psychology Brownstown location.
(734) 201-0375 View (734) 201-0375
Photo of Tanya M Brooks - Empowerment Counseling, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tanya M Brooks - Empowerment Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Brownstown, MI 48183  (Online Only)
I know how difficult it is to reach out. Congratulations on your first step. If you are struggling with issues of anxiety, depression, feeling stressed or overwhelmed please reach out. You do not need to navigate these feelings alone. My ideal client is someone who is motivated to make changes in their life. I enjoy working with individuals of all ages including, children, adolescents, and adults. I work diligently to make sure that I treat others with dignity and respect at all times. I will do my best to ensure that you and your family feel comfortable by establishing a therapeutic rapport early during your time in therapy.
I know how difficult it is to reach out. Congratulations on your first step. If you are struggling with issues of anxiety, depression, feeling stressed or overwhelmed please reach out. You do not need to navigate these feelings alone. My ideal client is someone who is motivated to make changes in their life. I enjoy working with individuals of all ages including, children, adolescents, and adults. I work diligently to make sure that I treat others with dignity and respect at all times. I will do my best to ensure that you and your family feel comfortable by establishing a therapeutic rapport early during your time in therapy.
(734) 789-3509 View (734) 789-3509
Photo of Kenneth J Cunningham, PhD, LISW-S, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kenneth J Cunningham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LISW-S, LMSW
Verified Verified
Brownstown, MI 48183
Life indeed ebbs and flows, and there are moments when good company, a listening ear, is essential. To be hopeful, to be inspired, to be appreciated- these things make life fulfilled "What oxygen is for the lungs, such is hope for the meaning of life." Children, adolescents, adults, families and couples are served; 38years in practice. Practice locations: Adrian Mi- 142 E Maumee; Toledo Oh- 4334 Central, Ottawa Hills Shopping Center; APEX Downriver/ Brownstown,Mi., virtual only
Life indeed ebbs and flows, and there are moments when good company, a listening ear, is essential. To be hopeful, to be inspired, to be appreciated- these things make life fulfilled "What oxygen is for the lungs, such is hope for the meaning of life." Children, adolescents, adults, families and couples are served; 38years in practice. Practice locations: Adrian Mi- 142 E Maumee; Toledo Oh- 4334 Central, Ottawa Hills Shopping Center; APEX Downriver/ Brownstown,Mi., virtual only
(517) 565-7116 View (517) 565-7116
Photo of Manuel Manrique - Michigan Modern Psychology, PhD, LP, Psychologist
Michigan Modern Psychology
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brownstown, MI 48134
At Michigan Modern Psychology, we offer therapy and evaluations for individuals of all ages in a private and comfortable setting. With multiple therapists on staff to meet your clinical needs at several locations (Dearborn, Plymouth, Livonia, Ferndale, and Brownstown), we provide comprehensive and well-rounded treatment for children, individuals, couples and families. We are committed to providing the latest in clinical innovations from the behavioral sciences within a psychodynamic context.
At Michigan Modern Psychology, we offer therapy and evaluations for individuals of all ages in a private and comfortable setting. With multiple therapists on staff to meet your clinical needs at several locations (Dearborn, Plymouth, Livonia, Ferndale, and Brownstown), we provide comprehensive and well-rounded treatment for children, individuals, couples and families. We are committed to providing the latest in clinical innovations from the behavioral sciences within a psychodynamic context.
(313) 265-2855 View (313) 265-2855
Photo of Sherry A. Dees, LMSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sherry A. Dees
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brownstown, MI 48174
My goal is to bring to you, as my client, a safe place to explore what will give you the most support for growth you want. My office is also a place to learn and try out new coping skills. I am a mentor with shelves of tools, some of which will fit the life you want to go out and have; others which may not meet your style. An ideal relationship will give you client room to open yourself to thoughts and feelings and learn what you want and need and how to express that in healthy ways.
My goal is to bring to you, as my client, a safe place to explore what will give you the most support for growth you want. My office is also a place to learn and try out new coping skills. I am a mentor with shelves of tools, some of which will fit the life you want to go out and have; others which may not meet your style. An ideal relationship will give you client room to open yourself to thoughts and feelings and learn what you want and need and how to express that in healthy ways.
(734) 388-0428 View (734) 388-0428
Photo of Prof. Lisa M Green, MA, LPC, Counselor
Prof. Lisa M Green
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Brownstown, MI 48134
I provide a holistic, client -centered and integrative approach to counseling. Together, we utilize techniques to explore the issues of life, gain insight into the thoughts, feelings and behaviors which affect the mind , body and spirit. I foster building on individual strengths and eliminating self-defeating behaviors, thus developing optimal self-satisfaction, growth and overall well being.
I provide a holistic, client -centered and integrative approach to counseling. Together, we utilize techniques to explore the issues of life, gain insight into the thoughts, feelings and behaviors which affect the mind , body and spirit. I foster building on individual strengths and eliminating self-defeating behaviors, thus developing optimal self-satisfaction, growth and overall well being.
(313) 246-8893 View (313) 246-8893
Photo of Candice Driscoll, MA, LPC, Counselor
Candice Driscoll
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brownstown, MI 48173
Hello, my name is Candice! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I have experience working in an integrated health care agency and in private practice. I have worked with people of all ages that are dealing with a large variety of mental health challenges. When you come to see me, you are entering an inclusive and safe space that is free from judgement. You are encouraged to be your true authentic self in my office. Therapy looks different for everyone and there is no cookie-cutter style of counseling.
Hello, my name is Candice! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I have experience working in an integrated health care agency and in private practice. I have worked with people of all ages that are dealing with a large variety of mental health challenges. When you come to see me, you are entering an inclusive and safe space that is free from judgement. You are encouraged to be your true authentic self in my office. Therapy looks different for everyone and there is no cookie-cutter style of counseling.
(734) 876-8445 View (734) 876-8445
Photo of Christina Makarov, EdD, LPC,  NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christina Makarov
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Brownstown, MI 48174
Do you feel anxious around others, sad for no reason, or as if there is nothing but negative in the world? Do you feel like happiness is not within your reach? Many people struggle to see the good in things and fear that the worst will happen. Anxiety and depression lower one’s self image and sense of worth. Wouldn’t it be amazing to finally feel good about who you are and what you look like? Imagine letting your mind rest and enjoying life as it happens. I can help you with this battle and help you realize that there is no one stronger, as important, or as unique as you!
Do you feel anxious around others, sad for no reason, or as if there is nothing but negative in the world? Do you feel like happiness is not within your reach? Many people struggle to see the good in things and fear that the worst will happen. Anxiety and depression lower one’s self image and sense of worth. Wouldn’t it be amazing to finally feel good about who you are and what you look like? Imagine letting your mind rest and enjoying life as it happens. I can help you with this battle and help you realize that there is no one stronger, as important, or as unique as you!
(586) 210-4345 View (586) 210-4345
Photo of Abir Marashi, MA, LPC, MTTC, NCC, Counselor
Abir Marashi
Counselor, MA, LPC, MTTC, NCC
Verified Verified
Brownstown, MI 48173
It takes courage to make the decision to search for a therapist. As an empath being a therapist has always been my calling. Having a connection with your therapist is crutial to the therapeutic process. Hearing your story is important to me. Is past trauma still haunting you now? Therapy can help you process traumatic events and heal. Is anxiety crippling you from living? I can help you figure out you're triggers and how to cope. Is depression making it difficult for you to get out of bed? I can help you uncover the root cause of your depression and help you find your purpose in life.
It takes courage to make the decision to search for a therapist. As an empath being a therapist has always been my calling. Having a connection with your therapist is crutial to the therapeutic process. Hearing your story is important to me. Is past trauma still haunting you now? Therapy can help you process traumatic events and heal. Is anxiety crippling you from living? I can help you figure out you're triggers and how to cope. Is depression making it difficult for you to get out of bed? I can help you uncover the root cause of your depression and help you find your purpose in life.
(313) 631-1828 View (313) 631-1828
Photo of Debra Nagy, PsyD, LP, Psychologist
Debra Nagy
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
Brownstown, MI 48134
Not accepting new clients
***********CURRENTLY NOT ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS*********** I believe that together you and I can discover your path for positive and lasting change. Collectively we will identify the problems that you are facing and work towards a solution. My approach in facilitating this journey is to help you learn how to uncover and capitalize on your individual strengths and make the most of your resources. In unison, we will discover what you want out of life and work towards the achievement of your goals.
***********CURRENTLY NOT ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS*********** I believe that together you and I can discover your path for positive and lasting change. Collectively we will identify the problems that you are facing and work towards a solution. My approach in facilitating this journey is to help you learn how to uncover and capitalize on your individual strengths and make the most of your resources. In unison, we will discover what you want out of life and work towards the achievement of your goals.
(734) 335-1730 View (734) 335-1730

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Sarah Abdel-Wahab-O'Brien, LLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Sarah Abdel-Wahab-O'Brien
Limited Licensed Psychologist, LLP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dearborn, MI 48124  (Online Only)
I utilize an eclectic therapy practice, however I predominantly have experience in Compassion Focused Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, as well as training in Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy (IPSRT), a modality specialized for folks with Bipolar Disorder.
Have you been feeling unheard? Have you felt that others have been quick to label your distress, but not support your healing? Creating and holding space for folks to feel safe in, share, be authentic, be vulnerable, and heal is something I have felt called to do throughout my life. I am an adamant believer that individuals are the experts on their own experience, and view therapy as a partnership on a journey toward healing, for which an affirming and non-pathologizing space is essential.
I utilize an eclectic therapy practice, however I predominantly have experience in Compassion Focused Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, as well as training in Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy (IPSRT), a modality specialized for folks with Bipolar Disorder.
Have you been feeling unheard? Have you felt that others have been quick to label your distress, but not support your healing? Creating and holding space for folks to feel safe in, share, be authentic, be vulnerable, and heal is something I have felt called to do throughout my life. I am an adamant believer that individuals are the experts on their own experience, and view therapy as a partnership on a journey toward healing, for which an affirming and non-pathologizing space is essential.
(734) 838-4497 View (734) 838-4497
Photo of Amy Plettner, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Plettner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Taylor, MI 48180  (Online Only)
“You don’t have to see the whole staircase, just take the first step.” -Martin Luther King Jr. Are you feeling stuck? Don’t know where to turn? Taking the first step in getting help takes courage. I am here to help you take the next steps in your journey of healing. I am licensed masters social worker in Michigan with 5 years of professional work experience. I enjoy helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, OCD, bipolar disorder, anxiety, and depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I value every person’s human worth and believe all should be treated equally.
“You don’t have to see the whole staircase, just take the first step.” -Martin Luther King Jr. Are you feeling stuck? Don’t know where to turn? Taking the first step in getting help takes courage. I am here to help you take the next steps in your journey of healing. I am licensed masters social worker in Michigan with 5 years of professional work experience. I enjoy helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, OCD, bipolar disorder, anxiety, and depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I value every person’s human worth and believe all should be treated equally.
(906) 287-4520 View (906) 287-4520
Photo of Chidinma Okogbue, PMHNP
Chidinma Okogbue
PMHNP
Verified Verified
Taylor, MI 48180  (Online Only)
I have experience in managing anxiety, depression, ODD, Bipolar disorder, OCD, psychosis, ADHD, as well as other mental health conditions.
I'm Chidinma E. Okogbue, your dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. With a heartfelt commitment to nurturing mental well-being, I have had 24 years of healthcare experience, and I bring over two years of specialized experience to support individuals through their mental health journeys. I am board-certified by the ANCC and hold multiple licenses across Michigan, Indiana, and Florida. My educational background includes a master's degree from Eastern Kentucky University and a bachelor's from Grand Canyon University, both in Nursing with a focus on psychiatric care.
I have experience in managing anxiety, depression, ODD, Bipolar disorder, OCD, psychosis, ADHD, as well as other mental health conditions.
I'm Chidinma E. Okogbue, your dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. With a heartfelt commitment to nurturing mental well-being, I have had 24 years of healthcare experience, and I bring over two years of specialized experience to support individuals through their mental health journeys. I am board-certified by the ANCC and hold multiple licenses across Michigan, Indiana, and Florida. My educational background includes a master's degree from Eastern Kentucky University and a bachelor's from Grand Canyon University, both in Nursing with a focus on psychiatric care.
(734) 766-7474 View (734) 766-7474
Photo of Deborah E Cody, LMSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Deborah E Cody
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Southgate, MI 48195  (Online Only)
I have experience working with anxiety, ADHD, depression, bipolar disorder, grief, PTSD, personality disorders, substance use disorders, interpersonal relationship issues and more.
Are you are dealing with difficulty coping with grief, relationship or job related turmoil, mental health issues, low self-esteem or feeling overwhelmed by the state of the world? If so, I am able to meet you where you are at and provide a safe space to work through these life stressors. My intention as your therapist is to do recovery work in a secure environment that will allow you to move through past trauma and gain a better understanding of yourself. Let's work together to create a treatment plan that is fit to your unique and individual needs!
I have experience working with anxiety, ADHD, depression, bipolar disorder, grief, PTSD, personality disorders, substance use disorders, interpersonal relationship issues and more.
Are you are dealing with difficulty coping with grief, relationship or job related turmoil, mental health issues, low self-esteem or feeling overwhelmed by the state of the world? If so, I am able to meet you where you are at and provide a safe space to work through these life stressors. My intention as your therapist is to do recovery work in a secure environment that will allow you to move through past trauma and gain a better understanding of yourself. Let's work together to create a treatment plan that is fit to your unique and individual needs!
(734) 270-6371 View (734) 270-6371
Photo of Jacqueline Boboescu, MSN,  PMHNP-
Jacqueline Boboescu
MSN, PMHNP-
Verified Verified
Southgate, MI 48195
Jackie Boboescu, PMHNP, is dedicated to actively listening to her patients and empathizing with their unique situations. Practicing in Michigan, Jackie focuses on providing individualized care to help clients achieve their mental health goals. She serves a diverse range of age groups, including children, adolescents, adults, and seniors, ensuring that each person receives the support they need at every stage of life. Jackie is particularly passionate about treating ADHD, anxiety, and bipolar disorder.
Jackie Boboescu, PMHNP, is dedicated to actively listening to her patients and empathizing with their unique situations. Practicing in Michigan, Jackie focuses on providing individualized care to help clients achieve their mental health goals. She serves a diverse range of age groups, including children, adolescents, adults, and seniors, ensuring that each person receives the support they need at every stage of life. Jackie is particularly passionate about treating ADHD, anxiety, and bipolar disorder.
(734) 724-6872 View (734) 724-6872
Photo of Leonard Uchendu, L, M, S, W, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leonard Uchendu
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, L, M, S, W
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Taylor, MI 48180  (Online Only)
I am specialized in Sex Addiction, Substance Use Disorder, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, impulsiveness, chronic pain, trauma, Grief and Loss issues, Bipolar Disorder and Borderline Personality disorder, relationship conflicts etc.
I understand the daunting task of seeking help. I commend you for your courage to reach out to me for help. You desire therapy because you may be experiencing the following problems: Trauma, Depression,Anxiety, Addiction, Grief and Loss, Chronic Pain, suicide/self-injurious behaviors, interpersonal conflicts and othe psychological difficulties. Certainly, you would like to get to the bottom of your feelings, gain insights, deepen sense of self and self-integration. My therapy room will provide you a safe space to be yourself. I will meet you where you with zero judgment, empathetic ear and evidence based practice.
I am specialized in Sex Addiction, Substance Use Disorder, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, impulsiveness, chronic pain, trauma, Grief and Loss issues, Bipolar Disorder and Borderline Personality disorder, relationship conflicts etc.
I understand the daunting task of seeking help. I commend you for your courage to reach out to me for help. You desire therapy because you may be experiencing the following problems: Trauma, Depression,Anxiety, Addiction, Grief and Loss, Chronic Pain, suicide/self-injurious behaviors, interpersonal conflicts and othe psychological difficulties. Certainly, you would like to get to the bottom of your feelings, gain insights, deepen sense of self and self-integration. My therapy room will provide you a safe space to be yourself. I will meet you where you with zero judgment, empathetic ear and evidence based practice.
(517) 684-2907 View (517) 684-2907
Photo of Heather Allison Herrick - On the Bright Side Counseling, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
On the Bright Side Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Trenton, MI 48183
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Social Worker with 20 years of clinical experience and 15 years of school social work experience. I enjoy working with children, adolescents and families, as well as individual adults and couples. I can help navigate through major and minor life changes and illnesses. I have expertise in behavior planning for children and families. My years of experience include working with ADHD, ODD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, Autism Spectrum Disorders, attachment, grief and loss, divorce, and changing family structures; including step-parenting, same-sex parenting and foster-parenting. I have also worked with youth and adults navigating sexual orientation, gender expression and relationships.
I am a Social Worker with 20 years of clinical experience and 15 years of school social work experience. I enjoy working with children, adolescents and families, as well as individual adults and couples. I can help navigate through major and minor life changes and illnesses. I have expertise in behavior planning for children and families. My years of experience include working with ADHD, ODD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, Autism Spectrum Disorders, attachment, grief and loss, divorce, and changing family structures; including step-parenting, same-sex parenting and foster-parenting. I have also worked with youth and adults navigating sexual orientation, gender expression and relationships.
(734) 767-0185 View (734) 767-0185
Photo of Bethany Petrous, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bethany Petrous
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Allen Park, MI 48101  (Online Only)
If you are experiencing anxiety, trauma, depression, bipolar disorder, grief, difficulties in relationships, low self-esteem, life transitions, stress, or anger management I am here to help you.
Therapy can be an empowering journey of self-discovery and healing which can be used as an opportunity to understand ourselves. Experiences can affect how we view ourselves and the world, this can cause difficultly discussing our past and current stressors. You can expect an empathetic, non-biased, and warm approach to therapy without judgement. We will work together to accomplish your goals and work through your life challenges so you can become the best version of you in a safe space.
If you are experiencing anxiety, trauma, depression, bipolar disorder, grief, difficulties in relationships, low self-esteem, life transitions, stress, or anger management I am here to help you.
Therapy can be an empowering journey of self-discovery and healing which can be used as an opportunity to understand ourselves. Experiences can affect how we view ourselves and the world, this can cause difficultly discussing our past and current stressors. You can expect an empathetic, non-biased, and warm approach to therapy without judgement. We will work together to accomplish your goals and work through your life challenges so you can become the best version of you in a safe space.
(810) 428-0406 View (810) 428-0406
Photo of Jennifer Lewis - Transcending Hope Institute, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Transcending Hope Institute
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Southgate, MI 48195
We offer mental health services to address depression, anxiety, trauma, bipolar disorders, borderline personality disorders, substance use, and more.
Our focus is to offer hope, help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. We achieve this by providing a neutral safe space, listening to your concerns, and customizing a treatment plan to help you build a life worth living.
We offer mental health services to address depression, anxiety, trauma, bipolar disorders, borderline personality disorders, substance use, and more.
Our focus is to offer hope, help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. We achieve this by providing a neutral safe space, listening to your concerns, and customizing a treatment plan to help you build a life worth living.
(313) 217-3516 View (313) 217-3516

See more therapy options for Brownstown

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.