Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Las Vegas, NV

Photo of Leighann Bode, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leighann Bode
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89108  (Online Only)
Feeling overwhelmed by depression, anxiety, or major life changes? Struggling with ADHD, Dementia, or Bipolar Disorder? You don't have to face these challenges alone. With empathy and unwavering support, we can navigate these difficulties together. I specialize in helping individuals find relief from depression and anxiety, manage significant life transitions, and cope with ADHD, Dementia, and Bipolar Disorder. We also offer compassionate support for couples and children facing behavioral challenges.
Feeling overwhelmed by depression, anxiety, or major life changes? Struggling with ADHD, Dementia, or Bipolar Disorder? You don't have to face these challenges alone. With empathy and unwavering support, we can navigate these difficulties together. I specialize in helping individuals find relief from depression and anxiety, manage significant life transitions, and cope with ADHD, Dementia, and Bipolar Disorder. We also offer compassionate support for couples and children facing behavioral challenges.
(725) 900-0943 View (725) 900-0943
Photo of Jennifer May, MFT-I, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Jennifer May
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MFT-I
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89129
I'm Jennifer May, a dedicated therapist specializing in providing compassionate and effective support through Solution-Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT). My practice is centered on helping individuals navigate and overcome emotional dysregulation, bipolar disorder, grief, and complex issues related to mother-daughter relationships. I also focus on helping couples create a stronger emotional connection. Additionally, I have a deep understanding and specialization in women's ADHD, offering tailored strategies to manage and thrive with this condition.
I'm Jennifer May, a dedicated therapist specializing in providing compassionate and effective support through Solution-Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT). My practice is centered on helping individuals navigate and overcome emotional dysregulation, bipolar disorder, grief, and complex issues related to mother-daughter relationships. I also focus on helping couples create a stronger emotional connection. Additionally, I have a deep understanding and specialization in women's ADHD, offering tailored strategies to manage and thrive with this condition.
(725) 777-4954 View (725) 777-4954
Photo of Christina DeBaun, MA, LMHC, LCPC, Counselor
Christina DeBaun
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Las Vegas, NV 89108  (Online Only)
I specialize with helping adults and adolescents struggling with mood disorders ( anxiety, anger, depression, bipolar) and life transition issues.
Are you feeling you have lost direction in your life? Feel stuck? Perhaps you recognize that your anxiety or depression has become more than you can handle of your own. Maybe you find yourself feeling alone and struggling with the relationships in your life.
I specialize with helping adults and adolescents struggling with mood disorders ( anxiety, anger, depression, bipolar) and life transition issues.
Are you feeling you have lost direction in your life? Feel stuck? Perhaps you recognize that your anxiety or depression has become more than you can handle of your own. Maybe you find yourself feeling alone and struggling with the relationships in your life.
(813) 491-9568 View (813) 491-9568
Photo of Leighann Bode, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leighann Bode
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89131  (Online Only)
Feeling overwhelmed by depression, anxiety, or major life changes? Struggling with ADHD, Dementia, or Bipolar Disorder? You don't have to face these challenges alone. With empathy and unwavering support, we can navigate these difficulties together. I specialize in helping individuals find relief from depression and anxiety, manage significant life transitions, and cope with ADHD, Dementia, and Bipolar Disorder. We also offer compassionate support for couples and children facing behavioral challenges.
Feeling overwhelmed by depression, anxiety, or major life changes? Struggling with ADHD, Dementia, or Bipolar Disorder? You don't have to face these challenges alone. With empathy and unwavering support, we can navigate these difficulties together. I specialize in helping individuals find relief from depression and anxiety, manage significant life transitions, and cope with ADHD, Dementia, and Bipolar Disorder. We also offer compassionate support for couples and children facing behavioral challenges.
(702) 935-4340 View (702) 935-4340
Photo of Carlye Rowe, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Carlye Rowe
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Las Vegas, NV 89117
Ideally I would like to work with ages 15-30 years old, with trauma or negative memories that they want to work through. I have lived experiences with the Troubled Teen Industry. I would like to work with clients on setting new goals and achieving those goals, working on anxiety and the things it communicates to you about your surroundings. Depression and bipolar are also two that I have experience working with.
Ideally I would like to work with ages 15-30 years old, with trauma or negative memories that they want to work through. I have lived experiences with the Troubled Teen Industry. I would like to work with clients on setting new goals and achieving those goals, working on anxiety and the things it communicates to you about your surroundings. Depression and bipolar are also two that I have experience working with.
(725) 900-3712 View (725) 900-3712
Photo of Shandy Melson, MS, NCC, LCPC, LCADC-S, Counselor
Shandy Melson
Counselor, MS, NCC, LCPC, LCADC-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Las Vegas, NV 89142  (Online Only)
Recovery from substance use disorders, trauma, bipolar disorder and depression, and anxiety disorders requires rediscovering who you truly are; coping skills help, but are not enough.
I have been counseling adolescents, children, and adults since 2010 to overcome substance use disorders, trauma, depression, anxiety and more. Therapy involves active participation from the client and the therapist so that the focus of therapy is always on the client and his/her goals. Sometimes clients know exactly what they need out of therapy; other times the client discovers new goals to achieve over the course of a few sessions. Therapy has the potential to help you better understand yourself and how you experience the world.
Recovery from substance use disorders, trauma, bipolar disorder and depression, and anxiety disorders requires rediscovering who you truly are; coping skills help, but are not enough.
I have been counseling adolescents, children, and adults since 2010 to overcome substance use disorders, trauma, depression, anxiety and more. Therapy involves active participation from the client and the therapist so that the focus of therapy is always on the client and his/her goals. Sometimes clients know exactly what they need out of therapy; other times the client discovers new goals to achieve over the course of a few sessions. Therapy has the potential to help you better understand yourself and how you experience the world.
(702) 710-3859 View (702) 710-3859
Photo of Nikita M. Noel-Smith, BS, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nikita M. Noel-Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist, BS, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89130
I have a high success rate with patients who are diagnosed with grief, post-traumatic stress, depression, anxiety and anger issues. I have personal experience and recovery from the effects of trauma. Clients who have anxiety benefit from coping/calming therapy techniques. I am qualified to work with families to reduce conflict, teaching fair fighting, and communication skills. Also, work with people to reduce negative symptoms of Schizophrenia and Bipolar. Christian Therapy is very effective for persons who are spiritual in nature. Children have unusual ways of communicating their feelings, and my focus is to build worth and self-esteem through Play Therapy.
I have a high success rate with patients who are diagnosed with grief, post-traumatic stress, depression, anxiety and anger issues. I have personal experience and recovery from the effects of trauma. Clients who have anxiety benefit from coping/calming therapy techniques. I am qualified to work with families to reduce conflict, teaching fair fighting, and communication skills. Also, work with people to reduce negative symptoms of Schizophrenia and Bipolar. Christian Therapy is very effective for persons who are spiritual in nature. Children have unusual ways of communicating their feelings, and my focus is to build worth and self-esteem through Play Therapy.
(702) 830-4778 View (702) 830-4778
Photo of Nancy Domiano-Sader, LCSW, LADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nancy Domiano-Sader
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LADC
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89123
Sometimes life is so very overwhelming and we just want to sort it all out with someone we can trust. Sometimes we are unable to confide in family and friends. Sometimes they are the problem! I am an experienced and passionate therapist with over 26 years dedicated to mental health. I seek to understand before attempting to being understood. My specialties include relationship repair, couples therapy, treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar D/O, and PPD and specializing in Couples Counseling, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Solution Focused Therapy.
Sometimes life is so very overwhelming and we just want to sort it all out with someone we can trust. Sometimes we are unable to confide in family and friends. Sometimes they are the problem! I am an experienced and passionate therapist with over 26 years dedicated to mental health. I seek to understand before attempting to being understood. My specialties include relationship repair, couples therapy, treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar D/O, and PPD and specializing in Couples Counseling, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Solution Focused Therapy.
(702) 570-8034 View (702) 570-8034
Photo of Rebecca Korzilius Kerl, Intern , MS, CPC , LPC Intern
Rebecca Korzilius Kerl
LPC Intern, Intern , MS, CPC
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89117
I have a passion for working with teens and adults, especially those on the autism spectrum. I also have experience and enjoy working with ADD/ADHD, anxiety, Bipolar disorder, giftedness, gender identity, LGBTQ, sexual health, and alternative lifestyles. I love helping people figure out how to work through social issues, relationship concerns, issues with school, work, or just life in general. I identify in this community and understand the challenges of living with a Neurodiverse brain. My commitment is to support you in becoming the best version of yourself and to empower you to embrace your unique mind.
I have a passion for working with teens and adults, especially those on the autism spectrum. I also have experience and enjoy working with ADD/ADHD, anxiety, Bipolar disorder, giftedness, gender identity, LGBTQ, sexual health, and alternative lifestyles. I love helping people figure out how to work through social issues, relationship concerns, issues with school, work, or just life in general. I identify in this community and understand the challenges of living with a Neurodiverse brain. My commitment is to support you in becoming the best version of yourself and to empower you to embrace your unique mind.
(725) 208-5347 View (725) 208-5347
Photo of Ellen Tinney - Uplifting Lives, MFTI, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Uplifting Lives
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MFTI
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89130
I have experience with clients who are diagnosed with grief, post-traumatic stress, depression, anxiety and anger issues, etc. My clients who have anxiety benefit from coping/calming therapy techniques. I am qualified to work with families to reduce conflict, and communication skills. Also, work with people to reduce negative symptoms of Bipolar. I have experience in Christian Therapy which is effective for persons who are spiritual in nature.
I have experience with clients who are diagnosed with grief, post-traumatic stress, depression, anxiety and anger issues, etc. My clients who have anxiety benefit from coping/calming therapy techniques. I am qualified to work with families to reduce conflict, and communication skills. Also, work with people to reduce negative symptoms of Bipolar. I have experience in Christian Therapy which is effective for persons who are spiritual in nature.
(725) 527-4455 View (725) 527-4455
Photo of Taber Gibbons, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Taber Gibbons
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
20 Endorsed
Las Vegas, NV 89147
I have experience helping clients with trauma processing and recovery, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, addiction recovery, and reunification of families.
I appreciate the hard work and time that each person puts into counseling and I am committed to helping clients find change and improvement. I use research-based treatments such as cognitive behavioral therapy and trauma focused therapy to help individuals, couples and families improve relationships or recover former trust and commitment. I focus on facilitating stronger relationships with those in a client's support system. I am committed to each individual and using each session to identify and address concerns and questions for individuals, couples, and families.
I have experience helping clients with trauma processing and recovery, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, addiction recovery, and reunification of families.
I appreciate the hard work and time that each person puts into counseling and I am committed to helping clients find change and improvement. I use research-based treatments such as cognitive behavioral therapy and trauma focused therapy to help individuals, couples and families improve relationships or recover former trust and commitment. I focus on facilitating stronger relationships with those in a client's support system. I am committed to each individual and using each session to identify and address concerns and questions for individuals, couples, and families.
(702) 766-4253 View (702) 766-4253
Photo of Brent G Ryder, PsyD, Psychologist
Brent G Ryder
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89107
Not accepting new clients
I address disorders such as PTSD and Bipolar Disorder, as well as domestic violence, trauma, and grief.
Are you challenged with feeling stressed, overwhelmed, or lacking hope? Are you unsure of what to do or where to turn? Maybe a strained relationship is adversely affecting your life. Whether you are dealing with a difficult illness, feeling challenged by daily struggles, dealing with a difficult life transition, or desiring more life meaning and enjoyment, you can improve your life. You can increase your hope for the future, and experience more life satisfaction. Living well is an art that involves personal discovery and developing your own life plan. Join me and enrich this next phase in your life.
I address disorders such as PTSD and Bipolar Disorder, as well as domestic violence, trauma, and grief.
Are you challenged with feeling stressed, overwhelmed, or lacking hope? Are you unsure of what to do or where to turn? Maybe a strained relationship is adversely affecting your life. Whether you are dealing with a difficult illness, feeling challenged by daily struggles, dealing with a difficult life transition, or desiring more life meaning and enjoyment, you can improve your life. You can increase your hope for the future, and experience more life satisfaction. Living well is an art that involves personal discovery and developing your own life plan. Join me and enrich this next phase in your life.
(702) 728-4988 View (702) 728-4988
Alana Jackson
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, PhD, LCADC, CPC, MAC, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Las Vegas, NV 89123
I believe everyone has the power to change and become the person they want to be. I like to work with people to help empower the positive change. I strive to provide a safe and confidential environment to assist in the counseling process. I have an extensive background working with addictions of every type in addition to mental issues including depression, bipolar, and stress management.
I believe everyone has the power to change and become the person they want to be. I like to work with people to help empower the positive change. I strive to provide a safe and confidential environment to assist in the counseling process. I have an extensive background working with addictions of every type in addition to mental issues including depression, bipolar, and stress management.
(702) 675-8967 View (702) 675-8967
Photo of Eveliz Ivette Robles, MS, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Eveliz Ivette Robles
Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89128  (Online Only)
Specialty areas include depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, general mood disorders post-traumatic stress disorder, borderline personality disorder, paranoid personality disorder, and attention deficit hyperactive disorder.
Now accepting new clients. - I am fluent in Spanish. - Weekdays & evening appointments available. I strive to bring an effective blend of experience, expertise, clarity, concern & action to the counseling process in order to maximize outcomes & provide genuine healing & wholeness to individuals, children & families. - Me esfuerzo por aportar una combinación eficaz de experiencia, pericia, claridad, preocupación y acción al proceso de asesoramiento para maximizar los resultados y brindar sanación genuina y plenitud a las personas, los niños y las familias. I am trained to conduct effective immigration evaluations.
Specialty areas include depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, general mood disorders post-traumatic stress disorder, borderline personality disorder, paranoid personality disorder, and attention deficit hyperactive disorder.
Now accepting new clients. - I am fluent in Spanish. - Weekdays & evening appointments available. I strive to bring an effective blend of experience, expertise, clarity, concern & action to the counseling process in order to maximize outcomes & provide genuine healing & wholeness to individuals, children & families. - Me esfuerzo por aportar una combinación eficaz de experiencia, pericia, claridad, preocupación y acción al proceso de asesoramiento para maximizar los resultados y brindar sanación genuina y plenitud a las personas, los niños y las familias. I am trained to conduct effective immigration evaluations.
(702) 904-8890 View (702) 904-8890
Photo of Louise Cialkowski, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Louise Cialkowski
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89148
Louise Cialkowski is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Nevada who has been practicing since 2015. She has a Bachelor of Nursing from Northern Illinois University, a Master of Nursing, Clinical Nurse Specialist from Loyola University and a Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy from the University of Phoenix. Louise has extensive experience working with clients who experience depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders, chronic health issues, and trauma. She has also helped people who experienced physical and/or emotional abuse. Her counseling style is warm, welcoming, and authentic.
Louise Cialkowski is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Nevada who has been practicing since 2015. She has a Bachelor of Nursing from Northern Illinois University, a Master of Nursing, Clinical Nurse Specialist from Loyola University and a Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy from the University of Phoenix. Louise has extensive experience working with clients who experience depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders, chronic health issues, and trauma. She has also helped people who experienced physical and/or emotional abuse. Her counseling style is warm, welcoming, and authentic.
(702) 904-9984 View (702) 904-9984
Photo of Jen Mitzel, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jen Mitzel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Las Vegas, NV 89110
I work with children with behavioral disorders, adults and children with psychosis, self-harm, suicidal ideation, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, relationship difficulties, and many other stressors.
We all suffer challenges in life and oftentimes therapy is the answer to those challenges. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in individual and family work. I have been a Social Worker for 20 years and have worked in a variety of settings including both in-patient and out-patient therapy. I enjoy working with all age groups from children to geriatrics.
I work with children with behavioral disorders, adults and children with psychosis, self-harm, suicidal ideation, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, relationship difficulties, and many other stressors.
We all suffer challenges in life and oftentimes therapy is the answer to those challenges. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in individual and family work. I have been a Social Worker for 20 years and have worked in a variety of settings including both in-patient and out-patient therapy. I enjoy working with all age groups from children to geriatrics.
(702) 983-2034 View (702) 983-2034
Photo of Thomas A. Jones, LCSW, LCDAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Thomas A. Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCDAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Las Vegas, NV 89113  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience in: depression, anxiety, relationship issues, bipolar, schizophrenia, active duty/veterans/families, work stress, death of loved ones, thoughts of suicide and difficulties with drugs and alcohol.
It can be difficult searching for a therapist you feel comfortable enough with so that you can finally get through painful and sensitive issues, I know, I've been there. That's why my number one goal is to build a trusting therapeutic relationship with you as the client.
I have extensive experience in: depression, anxiety, relationship issues, bipolar, schizophrenia, active duty/veterans/families, work stress, death of loved ones, thoughts of suicide and difficulties with drugs and alcohol.
It can be difficult searching for a therapist you feel comfortable enough with so that you can finally get through painful and sensitive issues, I know, I've been there. That's why my number one goal is to build a trusting therapeutic relationship with you as the client.
(702) 766-9450 View (702) 766-9450
Photo of Dr. Jodi Niswonger, PhD, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Jodi Niswonger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Las Vegas, NV 89130  (Online Only)
I've been an expert in PTSD, vicarious trauma, depression, anxiety, OCD, Bipolar Disorder, sexual abuse, relationship issues and parenting concerns for close to twenty years.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by life's challenges? Do you find it difficult to navigate through your thoughts and emotions? It's time to take control and pave a path towards a happier you. Psychotherapy is a transformative experience that can unlock your true potential and lead you to a fulfilling life. It offers you a safe and non-judgmental space for you to explore your inner self, tackle deep-rooted issues, and develop coping strategies for life's obstacles. The majority of people know the life they want, they just aren't sure how to get it. I can help you get the life you deserve! Contact me now and let's get started.
I've been an expert in PTSD, vicarious trauma, depression, anxiety, OCD, Bipolar Disorder, sexual abuse, relationship issues and parenting concerns for close to twenty years.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by life's challenges? Do you find it difficult to navigate through your thoughts and emotions? It's time to take control and pave a path towards a happier you. Psychotherapy is a transformative experience that can unlock your true potential and lead you to a fulfilling life. It offers you a safe and non-judgmental space for you to explore your inner self, tackle deep-rooted issues, and develop coping strategies for life's obstacles. The majority of people know the life they want, they just aren't sure how to get it. I can help you get the life you deserve! Contact me now and let's get started.
(702) 728-3146 View (702) 728-3146
Photo of Leighann Bode, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leighann Bode
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89121  (Online Only)
Feeling overwhelmed by depression, anxiety, or major life changes? Struggling with ADHD, Dementia, or Bipolar Disorder? You don't have to face these challenges alone. With empathy and unwavering support, we can navigate these difficulties together. I specialize in helping individuals find relief from depression and anxiety, manage significant life transitions, and cope with ADHD, Dementia, and Bipolar Disorder. We also offer compassionate support for couples and children facing behavioral challenges.
Feeling overwhelmed by depression, anxiety, or major life changes? Struggling with ADHD, Dementia, or Bipolar Disorder? You don't have to face these challenges alone. With empathy and unwavering support, we can navigate these difficulties together. I specialize in helping individuals find relief from depression and anxiety, manage significant life transitions, and cope with ADHD, Dementia, and Bipolar Disorder. We also offer compassionate support for couples and children facing behavioral challenges.
(725) 527-5849 View (725) 527-5849
Photo of Skylar Parker, MS, CPC-I , CADC-I, LPC Intern
Skylar Parker
LPC Intern, MS, CPC-I , CADC-I
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Las Vegas, NV 89120
I have experience working with depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, bipolar, borderline personality disorder, PTSD, substance use, etc.
I am a person-centered therapist who believes that YOU are the expert of your life. I act as a guide to assist you in reaching the best possible you. I would describe myself as a genuine, authentic, and open-minded clinician. I take a person-centered approach and will use interventions such as CBT, DBT, ACT, etc. to best fit the presenting concerns. My goal is to empower every single one of my clients, in order for them to reach new heights in their mental health journey.
I have experience working with depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, bipolar, borderline personality disorder, PTSD, substance use, etc.
I am a person-centered therapist who believes that YOU are the expert of your life. I act as a guide to assist you in reaching the best possible you. I would describe myself as a genuine, authentic, and open-minded clinician. I take a person-centered approach and will use interventions such as CBT, DBT, ACT, etc. to best fit the presenting concerns. My goal is to empower every single one of my clients, in order for them to reach new heights in their mental health journey.
(702) 803-1769 View (702) 803-1769
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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.