Therapists in Garner, NC
![Photo of Ronald J Valentine, PhD, HSP-P, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c92770f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
With over 29 years of post doctoral experience, Dr. Ronald J. Valentine and Associates, P.A. is a comprehensive psychological practice offering outpatient care for adults. Patients often deal with issues of anxiety, depression and grief. He also works with bipolar disorder, panic disorders and stress. Patients may also seek assistance with their spouse or family relationships. Dr. Valentine helps patients make positive changes in their quest for a happier life.
With over 29 years of post doctoral experience, Dr. Ronald J. Valentine and Associates, P.A. is a comprehensive psychological practice offering outpatient care for adults. Patients often deal with issues of anxiety, depression and grief. He also works with bipolar disorder, panic disorders and stress. Patients may also seek assistance with their spouse or family relationships. Dr. Valentine helps patients make positive changes in their quest for a happier life.
![Photo of George A Tabb - Life Without Limits Inc, MSW, LCSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6ad0499a-0718-4677-92e0-1af4ba98d231/2/320x400.jpeg)
Life Without Limits Inc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Garner, NC 27529
I am accepting new clients that are looking for Intensive EMDR. Why choose intensive work? The traditional model of weekly psychotherapy is shifting to meet your needs. Now more than ever, we need flexibility in how we get support. EMDR intensives are personalized treatment plans that allow you to skip the waitlist by giving you faster access to select spots, and are designed to support your preferred schedule and timeline for your treatment goals. Perhaps, you need more efficient support as the busy parent with kids doing virtual learning and/or the working professional who has even more on their plate since the pandemic.
I am accepting new clients that are looking for Intensive EMDR. Why choose intensive work? The traditional model of weekly psychotherapy is shifting to meet your needs. Now more than ever, we need flexibility in how we get support. EMDR intensives are personalized treatment plans that allow you to skip the waitlist by giving you faster access to select spots, and are designed to support your preferred schedule and timeline for your treatment goals. Perhaps, you need more efficient support as the busy parent with kids doing virtual learning and/or the working professional who has even more on their plate since the pandemic.
![Photo of Prof. Alphonsus Ekele Ngwadom - Almarch Family Care, LLC , PhD, MS, MAED, LCMHC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48ad1b5a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Almarch Family Care, LLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, PhD, MS, MAED, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Garner, NC 27529
Mentor and Precept Masters and PhD degree students on Psychotherapy of Nursing, Psychiatric Nurses. Offer counseling using Cognitive behavioral, Motivational Interviewing, Eclectic Strategies for clients with Immigration and adjustment issues, Court Ordered Assessment, Physical and sexual abuse therapy, Domestic Violence, Anxiety/emotional difficulty, Posttraumatic Stress disorder(PTSD), Depression, Anger Management, Conflict Resolution, Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity, Teen Pregnancy prevention, Low Self Esteem, School suspension/skipping, Juvenile Justice/foster care counseling etc.
Mentor and Precept Masters and PhD degree students on Psychotherapy of Nursing, Psychiatric Nurses. Offer counseling using Cognitive behavioral, Motivational Interviewing, Eclectic Strategies for clients with Immigration and adjustment issues, Court Ordered Assessment, Physical and sexual abuse therapy, Domestic Violence, Anxiety/emotional difficulty, Posttraumatic Stress disorder(PTSD), Depression, Anger Management, Conflict Resolution, Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity, Teen Pregnancy prevention, Low Self Esteem, School suspension/skipping, Juvenile Justice/foster care counseling etc.
![Photo of Michael Rosen, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43fb3fb9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have worked with a very diverse population and like to start with what my clients identify as their needs. Though I'm active and make observations and give guidance, I will quickly make it known to you that I want your feedback even if it is different from mine. This includes my work with adolescents and children as i know they are often reluctant with therapy yet want to be heard and this is how i join with them. Please think of your goals before coming in because this way you can determine if you are satisfied with my services. I am happy at this time to also offer Telepsych therapy sessions as an option
I have worked with a very diverse population and like to start with what my clients identify as their needs. Though I'm active and make observations and give guidance, I will quickly make it known to you that I want your feedback even if it is different from mine. This includes my work with adolescents and children as i know they are often reluctant with therapy yet want to be heard and this is how i join with them. Please think of your goals before coming in because this way you can determine if you are satisfied with my services. I am happy at this time to also offer Telepsych therapy sessions as an option
![Photo of Rob Reinhardt, LCMHCS, MEd, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/99b3d79d-c38d-4abd-b34d-d5e4166f03ef/2/320x400.jpeg)
Rob Reinhardt
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHCS, MEd
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Garner, NC 27529
Waitlist for new clients
I work with individuals, couples and families ages 12 and up and from all backgrounds. As a therapist, I work with clients to foster their current strengths and help them build new ones empowering them to deal with life's challenges successfully. I understand the importance of accepting that our unique personalities and experiences make us who we are and I focus on helping clients discover ways to make those strengths work in the context of life (school, work and relationships). I enjoy working with a diverse range of clientele and offer a free initial phone consultation.
I work with individuals, couples and families ages 12 and up and from all backgrounds. As a therapist, I work with clients to foster their current strengths and help them build new ones empowering them to deal with life's challenges successfully. I understand the importance of accepting that our unique personalities and experiences make us who we are and I focus on helping clients discover ways to make those strengths work in the context of life (school, work and relationships). I enjoy working with a diverse range of clientele and offer a free initial phone consultation.
![Photo of Vincent M Wright, MSW, LCSW, FBMHP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/06d8cd4a-d004-432f-9bf5-882207b7585e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Vincent M Wright
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, FBMHP
Verified Verified
Garner, NC 27529 (Online Only)
**Accepting New Clients** Life can be overwhelming, confusing, disappointing, and painful. Life can be very fast-paced, and it can be very difficult in knowing how to keep up. If you’re feeling depressed, or having difficulty with friendships/relationships/family/job, therapy can help. Are the experiences earlier in your life (childhood and/or early adulthood) impacting you now? Is it difficult to make healthy choices? Do you have anger issues? Do you struggle to share emotions that are natural and more vulnerable? Therapy can aid a person in making healthy choices, and improve your daily decision-making.
**Accepting New Clients** Life can be overwhelming, confusing, disappointing, and painful. Life can be very fast-paced, and it can be very difficult in knowing how to keep up. If you’re feeling depressed, or having difficulty with friendships/relationships/family/job, therapy can help. Are the experiences earlier in your life (childhood and/or early adulthood) impacting you now? Is it difficult to make healthy choices? Do you have anger issues? Do you struggle to share emotions that are natural and more vulnerable? Therapy can aid a person in making healthy choices, and improve your daily decision-making.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Reed Beeley, MSW, LCSWA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/91e15b20-d746-47b5-9976-30db9dd528f6/1/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Reed, and I specialize in substance use/abuse—including sex, gambling, and shopping problems, as well as bipolar disorder, eating disorders/disordered eating, ASD, ADHD, anxiety, depression, and anger management. Each session is highly individualized to your needs. Our sessions will consist of a partnership built upon mutual respect and understanding. I use a strength-based approach that focuses on personal growth. You have control over the direction of each session.
My name is Reed, and I specialize in substance use/abuse—including sex, gambling, and shopping problems, as well as bipolar disorder, eating disorders/disordered eating, ASD, ADHD, anxiety, depression, and anger management. Each session is highly individualized to your needs. Our sessions will consist of a partnership built upon mutual respect and understanding. I use a strength-based approach that focuses on personal growth. You have control over the direction of each session.
![Photo of Dale S Sheffield, PhD, MEd, LCMHCS, LCMHC, NCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d90ccbd-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dale S Sheffield
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervis, PhD, MEd, LCMHCS, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Knightdale, NC 27545
My focus is Trauma, Addiction, ADHD, Anger, Anxiety, Autism Spectrum, Bipolar Disorder, Conduct Disorder, Depression, Eating Disorders, Grief & Mourning, Life Decisions, Post Traumatic Stress, Relationship Issues, Self-Esteem, Self Injurious Behaviors, Suicidal Thoughts, & Trichotillomania (hair pulling).
I am pleased to announce the release of my new book, "Affirmative Parenting." It is available as an ebook and paperback version on Amazon. My goal is to provide a safe, nonjudgmental, positive environment where thoughts, feelings, and behaviors can be explored and understood. I want to help people achieve problem resolution through personal and emotional growth. I have used this approach in a variety of mental health settings and, presently, in my private practice. Please visit my website for more details at www.drdalesheffield.com. Thank you for taking the time to read my profile.
My focus is Trauma, Addiction, ADHD, Anger, Anxiety, Autism Spectrum, Bipolar Disorder, Conduct Disorder, Depression, Eating Disorders, Grief & Mourning, Life Decisions, Post Traumatic Stress, Relationship Issues, Self-Esteem, Self Injurious Behaviors, Suicidal Thoughts, & Trichotillomania (hair pulling).
I am pleased to announce the release of my new book, "Affirmative Parenting." It is available as an ebook and paperback version on Amazon. My goal is to provide a safe, nonjudgmental, positive environment where thoughts, feelings, and behaviors can be explored and understood. I want to help people achieve problem resolution through personal and emotional growth. I have used this approach in a variety of mental health settings and, presently, in my private practice. Please visit my website for more details at www.drdalesheffield.com. Thank you for taking the time to read my profile.
![Photo of Jeff Randall, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3caf7c21-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have developed specialties to treat (but am not limited to) Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorders including Panic Attacks, Adjustment Disorders, Relationship Problems, Grief, Domestic Violence, Mens Issues, Stress Management, Identity Issues, Transitioning Couples to Parenthood, and ADHD.
Most of us need help, at one time or another in our lives, and asking for help is not always easy. However, it is important to realize our own limitations and allow yourself to feel better. Mental health is a vital part of overall well-being, and its impact on our life should not be underestimated.
I have developed specialties to treat (but am not limited to) Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorders including Panic Attacks, Adjustment Disorders, Relationship Problems, Grief, Domestic Violence, Mens Issues, Stress Management, Identity Issues, Transitioning Couples to Parenthood, and ADHD.
Most of us need help, at one time or another in our lives, and asking for help is not always easy. However, it is important to realize our own limitations and allow yourself to feel better. Mental health is a vital part of overall well-being, and its impact on our life should not be underestimated.
![Photo of Kenny Enclade, MSW, LCSWA, LCAS, CCTS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/75bf5b83-131e-4d1a-8b20-f929c1c1c5fa/3/320x400.jpeg)
Kenny Enclade
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA, LCAS, CCTS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27610
I know personally how hard it can be to experience sexual/physical/emotional trauma/addiction/depression/grief/financial/relational ruin/overwhelming anxiety. Hoping to get through a day with the jaw clenching/palm sweating/handshakes/thoughts racing/heart pounding/doubting every idea/thought/emotion, asking will this be forever? Sometimes, you experience paralyzing nightmares or dreams that you are moving in slow motion and feel so alone and isolated when in a crowded room. Moreover, the constant dread (or the invisible weighted depression blanket). I get it; I've lived it and worked with many others who have.
I know personally how hard it can be to experience sexual/physical/emotional trauma/addiction/depression/grief/financial/relational ruin/overwhelming anxiety. Hoping to get through a day with the jaw clenching/palm sweating/handshakes/thoughts racing/heart pounding/doubting every idea/thought/emotion, asking will this be forever? Sometimes, you experience paralyzing nightmares or dreams that you are moving in slow motion and feel so alone and isolated when in a crowded room. Moreover, the constant dread (or the invisible weighted depression blanket). I get it; I've lived it and worked with many others who have.
![Photo of Wes Swan, LCMHC, NCC, Psychological Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/07f05cf0-f282-4790-bec3-3ada1d3b966f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Have you been told, "You just need to be more vulnerable." OK, but that's really hard! Face it, life is confusing and can often feel impossible. But working with the right counselor can help. Maybe you feel anxious, unmotivated, or unsure. So, what's the solution? Can you really learn to love yourself, deep down, living from a place of peace and clarity? Counseling helps you learn to live from your truest self. I enjoy helping adults and teenagers who suffer from trauma, anxiety, mood disorders, addiction, and more. I welcome folks from all backgrounds who want to discover their negative patterns and create changes that lasts.
Have you been told, "You just need to be more vulnerable." OK, but that's really hard! Face it, life is confusing and can often feel impossible. But working with the right counselor can help. Maybe you feel anxious, unmotivated, or unsure. So, what's the solution? Can you really learn to love yourself, deep down, living from a place of peace and clarity? Counseling helps you learn to live from your truest self. I enjoy helping adults and teenagers who suffer from trauma, anxiety, mood disorders, addiction, and more. I welcome folks from all backgrounds who want to discover their negative patterns and create changes that lasts.
![Photo of Marcus Lee Springs, LCMHC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9d55f708-da73-4e7a-bee6-29f43e01639c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Marcus Lee Springs
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27601
My mission is to have impact the lives of people that I am responsible for and whom I come into contact with. I truly feel that I have a unique perspective to offer to the world. I believe that my authentic self, in every stage of my life, has always been driven with intentions of love and compassion for others. My wife and family are the most important people in my life but I think people in general are important. People are special e
My mission is to have impact the lives of people that I am responsible for and whom I come into contact with. I truly feel that I have a unique perspective to offer to the world. I believe that my authentic self, in every stage of my life, has always been driven with intentions of love and compassion for others. My wife and family are the most important people in my life but I think people in general are important. People are special e
![Photo of Bo Hess, MSW, LCSW, LCAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8418dad0-0753-4296-804a-d091a68a449f/2/320x400.jpeg)
"We are all just walking each other home." - Ram Dass Hello, I am Bo. I am a licensed psychotherapist, licensed clinical addiction specialist, and psychiatric social worker. Thank you for considering me as your clinician. I understand it is difficult to reach out for help. Right now, you may be navigating feelings of shame, embarrassment, and anger. I want you to know, I have been there too, in the middle of the storm, darkness all around. Sometimes in life and in our relationships we all can become "stuck".
"We are all just walking each other home." - Ram Dass Hello, I am Bo. I am a licensed psychotherapist, licensed clinical addiction specialist, and psychiatric social worker. Thank you for considering me as your clinician. I understand it is difficult to reach out for help. Right now, you may be navigating feelings of shame, embarrassment, and anger. I want you to know, I have been there too, in the middle of the storm, darkness all around. Sometimes in life and in our relationships we all can become "stuck".
![Photo of Taij M Johnson, MA, LCMHC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6eb699c3-5b06-407a-a07f-2b1e3613b8c2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Taij M Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27610 (Online Only)
Therapy is the only journey that requires you to consistently unpack your bags, but have help putting it all back together again. Here you will find a place where you know that you are worthy, safe and that your voice matters. I make every effort to meet the individuals that I counsel where they are, and address specific needs to help them reach their peace and potential.
Therapy is the only journey that requires you to consistently unpack your bags, but have help putting it all back together again. Here you will find a place where you know that you are worthy, safe and that your voice matters. I make every effort to meet the individuals that I counsel where they are, and address specific needs to help them reach their peace and potential.
![Photo of Samuel Hensley, LCSW, LCAS, CCS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0e26f1fb-8401-4d67-80af-6eab1cc2d898/3/320x400.jpeg)
Samuel Hensley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27601 (Online Only)
Every journey has detours. Sometimes we get lost along the way. That experience - of having lost our way - can often be a catalyst for finding our way again, and finding ourselves, more fully and authentically than ever before. We often feel alone, especially when we feel most lost. But we are not alone, and the process of self-discovery can be made more fulfilling and productive with the help of a skilled therapist. It’s my privilege to walk with other travelers on this journey, and to support others as they move toward healing, growth, and restoration in their lives.
Every journey has detours. Sometimes we get lost along the way. That experience - of having lost our way - can often be a catalyst for finding our way again, and finding ourselves, more fully and authentically than ever before. We often feel alone, especially when we feel most lost. But we are not alone, and the process of self-discovery can be made more fulfilling and productive with the help of a skilled therapist. It’s my privilege to walk with other travelers on this journey, and to support others as they move toward healing, growth, and restoration in their lives.
![Photo of Corey Christopher Winston, MSW, LCSW, LCASA, CCSOTS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/701a60b2-c159-41f6-8f58-397913654df6/3/320x400.jpeg)
Corey Christopher Winston
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCASA, CCSOTS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27603 (Online Only)
Accepting New Clients for Telehealth Appointments! I have over 15 years of experience working in the mental health field working in a variety of settings with children, adolescents, adults and families. Everyone has a different life filled with different challenges. My focus is investigating what you are experiencing, understanding the challenges you face and offering you array of options for healing. This can be your first step toward a new life. Your search most likely reflects your search for something better and that takes great strength!
Accepting New Clients for Telehealth Appointments! I have over 15 years of experience working in the mental health field working in a variety of settings with children, adolescents, adults and families. Everyone has a different life filled with different challenges. My focus is investigating what you are experiencing, understanding the challenges you face and offering you array of options for healing. This can be your first step toward a new life. Your search most likely reflects your search for something better and that takes great strength!
![Photo of Joshua Heying, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5c91ae66-8ff8-4282-9d81-0536488b0850/2/320x400.jpeg)
Joshua Heying
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27601 (Online Only)
My practice is informed by a few basic beliefs: I believe that people are doing the best that they can with the resources they have available to them; I believe with adequate support and guidance, we all have the ability to develop new skills and reach our potential; and I believe that therapy is grounded in a trusting relationship, which is enhanced by my clinical knowledge. My approach combines multiple modalities to tailor treatment to your individual needs and is rooted in the understanding that my ability to adapt is key to you achieving success. I enjoy working with individuals and families, as well as adolescents and parents.
My practice is informed by a few basic beliefs: I believe that people are doing the best that they can with the resources they have available to them; I believe with adequate support and guidance, we all have the ability to develop new skills and reach our potential; and I believe that therapy is grounded in a trusting relationship, which is enhanced by my clinical knowledge. My approach combines multiple modalities to tailor treatment to your individual needs and is rooted in the understanding that my ability to adapt is key to you achieving success. I enjoy working with individuals and families, as well as adolescents and parents.
![Photo of Joshua Baum, LCMHCA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dc8eb833-6cc4-439c-af86-8dac6c2a382c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you anxious most of the time? Are you unhappy with your circumstances or relationships? Are you making a life transition? I am here to support you and hold space for your feelings and thoughts where you can feel safe and accepted. Together, we will explore and examine themes of: circumstances, control, identity, culture, and goals. When working with me, an emphasis on identity, inclusion, and acceptance is always on the forefront.
Are you anxious most of the time? Are you unhappy with your circumstances or relationships? Are you making a life transition? I am here to support you and hold space for your feelings and thoughts where you can feel safe and accepted. Together, we will explore and examine themes of: circumstances, control, identity, culture, and goals. When working with me, an emphasis on identity, inclusion, and acceptance is always on the forefront.
![Photo of Peter Panagakis, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44a34ebd-b865-4c66-a9b2-e3238173c1c0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Peter Panagakis is a Psychologist in North Carolina who has been practicing since 2007. He has a PsyD from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology and an MA from Boston University. Dr. Peter first became interested in the field of psychology during high school where he had the joy of being introduced to the field by his favorite teacher. An avid sports fan and athlete, Dr. Peter imagined working in a world where sports and psychology were combined "“ a dream he later achieved through his background in Sports Psychology before realizing that his true passion is for traditional psychotherapy.
Dr. Peter Panagakis is a Psychologist in North Carolina who has been practicing since 2007. He has a PsyD from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology and an MA from Boston University. Dr. Peter first became interested in the field of psychology during high school where he had the joy of being introduced to the field by his favorite teacher. An avid sports fan and athlete, Dr. Peter imagined working in a world where sports and psychology were combined "“ a dream he later achieved through his background in Sports Psychology before realizing that his true passion is for traditional psychotherapy.
![Photo of Nicholas Coe, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5fa74512-c18a-480c-bf41-cd69798b56eb/2/320x400.jpeg)
We are all deeply impacted by a variety of factors. Our upbringing. Our experiences. Genetics and biology. Culture, race, ethnicity and gender. Who we may have lost in our lives. Our physical abilities and/or limitations. These components and more have worked to create over 8 billion unique individuals. What factors have impacted you? What has helped you to thrive and survive? What creates worry or dread? What contributes to feelings of heaviness or being out of sorts? These are some of the questions that will be instrumental in how we approach therapy together.
We are all deeply impacted by a variety of factors. Our upbringing. Our experiences. Genetics and biology. Culture, race, ethnicity and gender. Who we may have lost in our lives. Our physical abilities and/or limitations. These components and more have worked to create over 8 billion unique individuals. What factors have impacted you? What has helped you to thrive and survive? What creates worry or dread? What contributes to feelings of heaviness or being out of sorts? These are some of the questions that will be instrumental in how we approach therapy together.
See more therapy options for Garner
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.