Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Wilmington, NC

Photo of Andrew Robert Brady, LCMHC, LCAS
Andrew Robert Brady
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28401  (Online Only)
My clinical experience includes working with adults with ADHD, bipolar, anxiety, relationship stressors, grief, divorce/separation, substance abuse, and addressing overall life adjustments that can be scary to handle on your own. I work with clients who desire to have a deeper understanding of life's challenges and who want to have the tools necessary to manage whatever life has to throw at them.
My clinical experience includes working with adults with ADHD, bipolar, anxiety, relationship stressors, grief, divorce/separation, substance abuse, and addressing overall life adjustments that can be scary to handle on your own. I work with clients who desire to have a deeper understanding of life's challenges and who want to have the tools necessary to manage whatever life has to throw at them.
(910) 773-4556 View (910) 773-4556
Photo of Samantha Quiel, MSW, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Samantha Quiel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
My specialties include depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, life transitions, chronic illness, and survivors of interpersonal violence.
Accepting New Clients-I believe that we all face unique challenges throughout our lives. I provide a space for you to authentically be yourself, without judgment. I aim to forge a trusting relationship to help you feel comfortable discussing your most protected thoughts and feelings. I provide support as we process through tough times, ask questions, and work with you to find solutions to your challenges. There are no quick fixes, but developing life skills, improving self-respect, and connecting with loved ones can be key in building a positive path for your future. We will create a custom treatment plan that works best for you.
My specialties include depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, life transitions, chronic illness, and survivors of interpersonal violence.
Accepting New Clients-I believe that we all face unique challenges throughout our lives. I provide a space for you to authentically be yourself, without judgment. I aim to forge a trusting relationship to help you feel comfortable discussing your most protected thoughts and feelings. I provide support as we process through tough times, ask questions, and work with you to find solutions to your challenges. There are no quick fixes, but developing life skills, improving self-respect, and connecting with loved ones can be key in building a positive path for your future. We will create a custom treatment plan that works best for you.
(919) 289-4023 View (919) 289-4023
Photo of Serena Faison, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Serena Faison
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28401  (Online Only)
I help with stress-anxiety, self-esteem, motivation, Bipolar Depression, Depression, Coping with Life-Changes Addictions, LGBT, Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Trauma and abuse, Grief, Intimacy-related issues, Eating disorders, Sleeping disorders, Parenting issues, Anger management, Career difficulties, Spiritual Coaching, Compassion fatigue, & ADHD.
I am licensed in North Carolina with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence, bipolar disorder, & depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change.
I help with stress-anxiety, self-esteem, motivation, Bipolar Depression, Depression, Coping with Life-Changes Addictions, LGBT, Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Trauma and abuse, Grief, Intimacy-related issues, Eating disorders, Sleeping disorders, Parenting issues, Anger management, Career difficulties, Spiritual Coaching, Compassion fatigue, & ADHD.
I am licensed in North Carolina with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence, bipolar disorder, & depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change.
(910) 634-3204 View (910) 634-3204
Photo of Jessica Taylor Dean, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Jessica Taylor Dean
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFT
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28405
I enjoy working with couples wanting to enhance their relationship, recover from affairs, increase their emotional intimacy, or have other goals that might pertain to a couple. I also enjoy utilizing play therapy, where children and adolescents can utilize toys and sand trays to process current or past experiences, including traumatic events, as well as increase their self-awareness and self-esteem. Finally, I appreciate working with generalized anxiety, social anxiety, bipolar disorder, self-esteem/identity issues, spiritual issues, relational issues, family issues, and stressful life transitions.
I enjoy working with couples wanting to enhance their relationship, recover from affairs, increase their emotional intimacy, or have other goals that might pertain to a couple. I also enjoy utilizing play therapy, where children and adolescents can utilize toys and sand trays to process current or past experiences, including traumatic events, as well as increase their self-awareness and self-esteem. Finally, I appreciate working with generalized anxiety, social anxiety, bipolar disorder, self-esteem/identity issues, spiritual issues, relational issues, family issues, and stressful life transitions.
(910) 406-6525 x335 View (910) 406-6525 x335
Photo of Nicole Merrigan, MA, LPA, Psychological Associate
Nicole Merrigan
Psychological Associate, MA, LPA
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28401  (Online Only)
Clients who reach out to me are either their worst critic, ready and willing but may lack particular skills, or both. Self-acceptance is a needed foundation. It is important for people to learn to accept themselves and their emotions, thoughts, and behaviors, making room for being uncomfortable; while also learning to regulate or change behaviors when it is needed to do so. Whether the issue is depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, emotion dysregulation, trauma/PTSD, ADHD, or substance use, I have a set of skills that will be helpful.
Clients who reach out to me are either their worst critic, ready and willing but may lack particular skills, or both. Self-acceptance is a needed foundation. It is important for people to learn to accept themselves and their emotions, thoughts, and behaviors, making room for being uncomfortable; while also learning to regulate or change behaviors when it is needed to do so. Whether the issue is depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, emotion dysregulation, trauma/PTSD, ADHD, or substance use, I have a set of skills that will be helpful.
(910) 543-2878 View (910) 543-2878
Photo of Gloria M Brown, MA, LPA, Psychological Associate
Gloria M Brown
Psychological Associate, MA, LPA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
I am a licensed therapist with 25+ years of experience. I see adults and adolescents who are ready to work on issues that have a negative impact on their lives and emotional health. I combine a holistic mind/body/spirit approach using positive, solution-focused therapy methods, as well as cognitive behavioral strategies and the many tools from the 12-Step Programs. I work with individuals having problems with addiction, alcoholism, anxiety, panic attacks, social anxiety, anger, bipolar I and II disorders, cyclothymic disorder, depression, chronic pain and health issues, kleptomania, excoriation, self-injury, trichotillomania, schizophrenia, ADHD, OCD, and PTSD.
I am a licensed therapist with 25+ years of experience. I see adults and adolescents who are ready to work on issues that have a negative impact on their lives and emotional health. I combine a holistic mind/body/spirit approach using positive, solution-focused therapy methods, as well as cognitive behavioral strategies and the many tools from the 12-Step Programs. I work with individuals having problems with addiction, alcoholism, anxiety, panic attacks, social anxiety, anger, bipolar I and II disorders, cyclothymic disorder, depression, chronic pain and health issues, kleptomania, excoriation, self-injury, trichotillomania, schizophrenia, ADHD, OCD, and PTSD.
(910) 499-4712 View (910) 499-4712
Photo of Isabell Fasnacht, MSW, LCSW-A, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Isabell Fasnacht
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-A
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28405
My goal as your therapist is to provide a non-judgemental and supportive therapeutic environment where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. I place great importance on establishing a strong therapeutic alliance based on trust and collaboration. I aim to meet you where you are at in your journey to help you gain insight and awareness and identify strengths and solutions in order to accomplish your goals. I help clients with a variety of issues including but not limited to anxiety, depression, bipolar, relationship issues, behavioral issues, and stressful life transitions.
My goal as your therapist is to provide a non-judgemental and supportive therapeutic environment where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. I place great importance on establishing a strong therapeutic alliance based on trust and collaboration. I aim to meet you where you are at in your journey to help you gain insight and awareness and identify strengths and solutions in order to accomplish your goals. I help clients with a variety of issues including but not limited to anxiety, depression, bipolar, relationship issues, behavioral issues, and stressful life transitions.
(910) 812-1057 View (910) 812-1057
Photo of Carol Kirby, MS, LCMHC
Carol Kirby
MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28411
I have experience with a wide variety of issues including overcoming damaging effects of life experiences, anxiety, depression, anger management, PTSD, impulse control, bipolar disorder, parenting skills, stress management, grieving, relationship skills, self esteem, and spirituality.
If you think about it, your mental health is probably the most important thing you have. Without it, there is not a lot left. I like to work collaboratively in helping others grow and deepen themselves and their self esteem to make a stronger, self empowered individual of your own design. I have found that with support, insight, and building a strong identity, people feel more free and happy, not depending on others for happiness. I mostly do Individual therapy with adults and older teens.
I have experience with a wide variety of issues including overcoming damaging effects of life experiences, anxiety, depression, anger management, PTSD, impulse control, bipolar disorder, parenting skills, stress management, grieving, relationship skills, self esteem, and spirituality.
If you think about it, your mental health is probably the most important thing you have. Without it, there is not a lot left. I like to work collaboratively in helping others grow and deepen themselves and their self esteem to make a stronger, self empowered individual of your own design. I have found that with support, insight, and building a strong identity, people feel more free and happy, not depending on others for happiness. I mostly do Individual therapy with adults and older teens.
(910) 400-1161 View (910) 400-1161
Photo of Dr. Michael Stinnett, PsyD, LP, HSP-P, Psychologist
Dr. Michael Stinnett
Psychologist, PsyD, LP, HSP-P
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403  (Online Only)
My clinic at Oceanview Mental Health & Wellness might be a great fit for you if you are seeking a safe, affirming space to address mental health concerns like anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, gender dysphoria, ADHD, etc. You likely value culturally responsive, trauma-informed care and want a provider who understands the impact of systemic injustices on your well-being. Your goals likely include achieving emotional well-being, building resilience, and enhancing your overall quality of life. You'll appreciate my compassionate approach, delivering high-quality mental health care, and my dedication to social justice issues.
My clinic at Oceanview Mental Health & Wellness might be a great fit for you if you are seeking a safe, affirming space to address mental health concerns like anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, gender dysphoria, ADHD, etc. You likely value culturally responsive, trauma-informed care and want a provider who understands the impact of systemic injustices on your well-being. Your goals likely include achieving emotional well-being, building resilience, and enhancing your overall quality of life. You'll appreciate my compassionate approach, delivering high-quality mental health care, and my dedication to social justice issues.
(984) 422-3803 View (984) 422-3803
Photo of Lynanne Romano, PsyD, Psychologist
Lynanne Romano
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28403  (Online Only)
Dr. Romano is a licensed and dedicated clinical psychologist treating Adult ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Trauma, and Depression. With a Psy.D. from Immaculata University and over fifteen years of experience in mental health, she brings a wealth of expertise and a compassionate, relatable approach to her practice. Dr. Romano establishes a strong connection with clients, fostering a safe and supportive environment for growth and healing. Her evidence-based treatments are personalized to meet the unique needs of each individual, ensuring a holistic and empowering therapeutic experience.
Dr. Romano is a licensed and dedicated clinical psychologist treating Adult ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Trauma, and Depression. With a Psy.D. from Immaculata University and over fifteen years of experience in mental health, she brings a wealth of expertise and a compassionate, relatable approach to her practice. Dr. Romano establishes a strong connection with clients, fostering a safe and supportive environment for growth and healing. Her evidence-based treatments are personalized to meet the unique needs of each individual, ensuring a holistic and empowering therapeutic experience.
(910) 541-9780 View (910) 541-9780
Photo of Sophia Caudle - Bull City Psychotherapy, PLLC, PhD, LPC-S, LCSW, LCAS, CSAT-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bull City Psychotherapy, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, LCSW, LCAS, CSAT-S
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28403
Our areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, bipolar, trauma, sex addiction, pornography addiction, substance abuse, LGBTQ.
Welcome to Bull City Psychotherapy. We are a caring group of psychotherapists who are passionate about helping others improve their moods, improve relationships, and recover from addictions. We offer a private and comfortable environment for our work with you, so you can feel safe and at ease. We are all highly trained in our areas of expertise, and we value our clients achieving their goals and moving forward. We believe in effective therapy that works.
Our areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, bipolar, trauma, sex addiction, pornography addiction, substance abuse, LGBTQ.
Welcome to Bull City Psychotherapy. We are a caring group of psychotherapists who are passionate about helping others improve their moods, improve relationships, and recover from addictions. We offer a private and comfortable environment for our work with you, so you can feel safe and at ease. We are all highly trained in our areas of expertise, and we value our clients achieving their goals and moving forward. We believe in effective therapy that works.
(919) 698-7061 View (919) 698-7061
Photo of Mary M Godin, MA, LPA, LCMHC, Psychological Associate
Mary M Godin
Psychological Associate, MA, LPA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
I work with children, adolescents, and adults utilizing cognitive-behavioral therapy and cognitive interpersonal therapy. I strive to develop a trusting and nonjudgmental atmosphere in which clients can grow to reach their potential and work through difficult times. I have worked in outpatient mental health for over 20 years with a variety of mental disorders including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, attachment disorders, autistic spectrum disorders, ADHD and other childhood behavioral disorders.
I work with children, adolescents, and adults utilizing cognitive-behavioral therapy and cognitive interpersonal therapy. I strive to develop a trusting and nonjudgmental atmosphere in which clients can grow to reach their potential and work through difficult times. I have worked in outpatient mental health for over 20 years with a variety of mental disorders including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, attachment disorders, autistic spectrum disorders, ADHD and other childhood behavioral disorders.
(910) 679-4733 View (910) 679-4733
Photo of Kristyn Martinez, LCMHC
Kristyn Martinez
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28401  (Online Only)
Expert in guiding clients through bipolar, psychosis, dissociative, and mood disorders, I offer strategies for healing and coping, fostering success and well-being.
Reaching out for help is a courageous step, and I admire your strength. As a grounded and approachable therapist, I'm here to meet you where you are on your journey. Together, we'll work to lighten your load and navigate your path forward with compassion and understanding. If you're seeking a guide to support and empower you towards your goals, I'm ready to start this journey with you. Let's unlock your resilience and foster the change you desire.
Expert in guiding clients through bipolar, psychosis, dissociative, and mood disorders, I offer strategies for healing and coping, fostering success and well-being.
Reaching out for help is a courageous step, and I admire your strength. As a grounded and approachable therapist, I'm here to meet you where you are on your journey. Together, we'll work to lighten your load and navigate your path forward with compassion and understanding. If you're seeking a guide to support and empower you towards your goals, I'm ready to start this journey with you. Let's unlock your resilience and foster the change you desire.
(910) 727-4171 View (910) 727-4171
Photo of Araby Boykin, LCMHC
Araby Boykin
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28403
Hello! I’ve worked as a licensed counselor since 2017, with previous experience as a social worker. My focus is working with adults who have experienced trauma, anxiety, depressive symptoms, relational difficulties, family issues, substance use, and severe mental illnesses. My theoretical orientation is an integration of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Solution Focused Behavioral Therapy (SFBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Mindfulness. I have learned that no two people are the same and that everyone must be treated individually and holistically.
Hello! I’ve worked as a licensed counselor since 2017, with previous experience as a social worker. My focus is working with adults who have experienced trauma, anxiety, depressive symptoms, relational difficulties, family issues, substance use, and severe mental illnesses. My theoretical orientation is an integration of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Solution Focused Behavioral Therapy (SFBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Mindfulness. I have learned that no two people are the same and that everyone must be treated individually and holistically.
(910) 946-6557 View (910) 946-6557
Photo of Araby Boykin, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Araby Boykin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28403
Hello! I’ve worked as a licensed counselor since 2017, with previous experience as a social worker. My focus is working with adults who have experienced trauma, anxiety, depressive symptoms, relational difficulties, family issues, substance use, and severe mental illnesses. My theoretical orientation is an integration of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Solution Focused Behavioral Therapy (SFBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Mindfulness. I have learned that no two people are the same and that everyone must be treated individually and holistically.
Hello! I’ve worked as a licensed counselor since 2017, with previous experience as a social worker. My focus is working with adults who have experienced trauma, anxiety, depressive symptoms, relational difficulties, family issues, substance use, and severe mental illnesses. My theoretical orientation is an integration of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Solution Focused Behavioral Therapy (SFBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Mindfulness. I have learned that no two people are the same and that everyone must be treated individually and holistically.
(336) 652-3497 View (336) 652-3497
Photo of Erin Healy, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Erin Healy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
**Accepting new client's for in person therapy in Wilmington, NC** I work with individuals and couples impacted by trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, intimacy/sexual concerns, relational distress, ambivalence, and stress. My work with couples includes addressing trust and communication issues, providing premarital counseling, repairing after infidelity, intimacy concerns, and reconnecting. I work with young adults surrounding issues such as stress, anger, anxiety, relationship choices, bullying/peer pressure, sexuality concerns, conflict with parents or other family members, and life transitions.
**Accepting new client's for in person therapy in Wilmington, NC** I work with individuals and couples impacted by trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, intimacy/sexual concerns, relational distress, ambivalence, and stress. My work with couples includes addressing trust and communication issues, providing premarital counseling, repairing after infidelity, intimacy concerns, and reconnecting. I work with young adults surrounding issues such as stress, anger, anxiety, relationship choices, bullying/peer pressure, sexuality concerns, conflict with parents or other family members, and life transitions.
(984) 205-6948 View (984) 205-6948
Photo of Renee Martin McCauley, MEd, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Renee Martin McCauley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28403
Hi there, I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor with 18 years of experience in the mental health field. My primary goal as a therapist is to authentically connect with my clients. I believe being present is the fundamental element in building successful therapeutic relationships. It is a privilege to be entrusted with clients' most intimate challenges and dreams. I work with individuals dealing with a vast array of issues. A few of my special interests include: life transitions, mood disorders, working with artists/creative thinkers, the LGBT+ community, addiction & recovery, women’s issues and holistic health.
Hi there, I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor with 18 years of experience in the mental health field. My primary goal as a therapist is to authentically connect with my clients. I believe being present is the fundamental element in building successful therapeutic relationships. It is a privilege to be entrusted with clients' most intimate challenges and dreams. I work with individuals dealing with a vast array of issues. A few of my special interests include: life transitions, mood disorders, working with artists/creative thinkers, the LGBT+ community, addiction & recovery, women’s issues and holistic health.
(910) 556-6009 View (910) 556-6009
Photo of Kim Kelley Longbottom, LCSW, LCAS, CCS, MAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kim Kelley Longbottom
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS, CCS, MAC
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28403
I believe every person has the desire to be happy and content in their world, as well as the ability to achieve this ideal. However, the way a person learned to view and operate in the world as a child can make it difficult to reach this potential. By addressing a person's core beliefs & values along with their attitudes and behaviors, together we can unlock the potential that's been there from the beginning. As your therapist, I will provide a safe place for you to allow the answers that are within you to emerge so we can work with them.
I believe every person has the desire to be happy and content in their world, as well as the ability to achieve this ideal. However, the way a person learned to view and operate in the world as a child can make it difficult to reach this potential. By addressing a person's core beliefs & values along with their attitudes and behaviors, together we can unlock the potential that's been there from the beginning. As your therapist, I will provide a safe place for you to allow the answers that are within you to emerge so we can work with them.
(910) 915-8896 View (910) 915-8896
Photo of Beverly D. Brooks, PhD, PA, Psychologist
Beverly D. Brooks
Psychologist, PhD, PA
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28409
I help people find their courage to learn new behavior, build better relationships, embrace change, overcome negative effects of damaging life experiences, resolve grief, and transform losses into well-earned wisdom and productive action. Getting "unstuck" requires new perspectives, persistence while sorting through complexities and confusion, and practice with new skills and strategies. I strive to be kind, ethical, informative, interactive, responsive, and a rigorous "coach" who can be helpful to you.
I help people find their courage to learn new behavior, build better relationships, embrace change, overcome negative effects of damaging life experiences, resolve grief, and transform losses into well-earned wisdom and productive action. Getting "unstuck" requires new perspectives, persistence while sorting through complexities and confusion, and practice with new skills and strategies. I strive to be kind, ethical, informative, interactive, responsive, and a rigorous "coach" who can be helpful to you.
(910) 909-3687 View (910) 909-3687
Photo of Wiley Thomas Pittman, MS, LCMHC
Wiley Thomas Pittman
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28403
My desire is to be of assistance to those seeking recovery from substance abuse, dual diagnosis and trauma issues. I will certainly attempt to help anyone who seeks my help. I believe we all hold our own answers however we might need assistance admitting what the answers are.
My desire is to be of assistance to those seeking recovery from substance abuse, dual diagnosis and trauma issues. I will certainly attempt to help anyone who seeks my help. I believe we all hold our own answers however we might need assistance admitting what the answers are.
(910) 613-5781 View (910) 613-5781
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.