Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Chesterland, OH

Photo of Becky Cervenka, MA, LPCC, ATR
Becky Cervenka
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC, ATR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chesterland, OH 44026
Waitlist for new clients
I understand. Probably the most untrue thing anyone can say. I am not you, I have not lived your life, felt your feelings, or thought your thoughts. This means I can't fully understand what you have gone or are going through. What I can do is appreciate your struggle and help you navigate and sort through it all; to find why we think the way we think, feel the way we feel, and behave they way we do.
I understand. Probably the most untrue thing anyone can say. I am not you, I have not lived your life, felt your feelings, or thought your thoughts. This means I can't fully understand what you have gone or are going through. What I can do is appreciate your struggle and help you navigate and sort through it all; to find why we think the way we think, feel the way we feel, and behave they way we do.
(440) 444-9947 View (440) 444-9947
Photo of Tammy Cappadonna-Kloss, LPCC-S
Tammy Cappadonna-Kloss
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chesterland, OH 44026
I currently focus my practice in helping individuals (children/adolescent and adults) and couples to overcome anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, relationship struggles, life/family changes, and parenting issues. The goal is for each person to use self-compassion and personal connection in learning how to identify strengths and resilience to face the challenges of life.
I currently focus my practice in helping individuals (children/adolescent and adults) and couples to overcome anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, relationship struggles, life/family changes, and parenting issues. The goal is for each person to use self-compassion and personal connection in learning how to identify strengths and resilience to face the challenges of life.
(440) 271-3896 View (440) 271-3896
Photo of Mary Kozina, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Kozina
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chesterland, OH 44026
I am here to help you find your way on this journey called life. As a therapist who has provided services to diverse client populations for the past 30 years, I am here to walk with you on this journey. I have a broad range of clinical experience treating substance use disorders, trauma, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, life and relationship issues, self-harm, and stress management. My current focus and experience is working with adults 18 years + providing counseling and substance use disorder treatment using a compassionate and harm reduction approach to treatment.
I am here to help you find your way on this journey called life. As a therapist who has provided services to diverse client populations for the past 30 years, I am here to walk with you on this journey. I have a broad range of clinical experience treating substance use disorders, trauma, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, life and relationship issues, self-harm, and stress management. My current focus and experience is working with adults 18 years + providing counseling and substance use disorder treatment using a compassionate and harm reduction approach to treatment.
(440) 760-5868 View (440) 760-5868
Photo of Leah Fellenstein, LPCC-S, Counselor
Leah Fellenstein
Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Chesterland, OH 44026
Waitlist for new clients
It is my goal as a therapist to support and encourage individuals to make the necessary changes needed for emotional stability and wellness. When working with a client, I focus on the skills they need to better cope with or overcome the challenges and stressors they face. Whether someone is dealing with a reoccurring mental health concern, a relational issue, or a life transition, I strive to provide a safe space where people can process, reflect, learn and grow.
It is my goal as a therapist to support and encourage individuals to make the necessary changes needed for emotional stability and wellness. When working with a client, I focus on the skills they need to better cope with or overcome the challenges and stressors they face. Whether someone is dealing with a reoccurring mental health concern, a relational issue, or a life transition, I strive to provide a safe space where people can process, reflect, learn and grow.
(440) 701-5384 View (440) 701-5384

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Tonya Gragg-McCoy, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tonya Gragg-McCoy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Cleveland, OH 44124
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of behavioral health and psychotherapy experience in settings such as community and residential care, hospitals, and inpatient and outpatient facilities. My skills include working with rural populations and adults with mental illness such as bipolar disorder, PTSD, and alcohol and drug issues. Through my collaborative, person-centered, trauma-informed approach, I help my clients define what their own version of success looks like. I use a variety of tools such as motivational interviewing and cognitive behavioral therapy to develop individual care for my clients.
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of behavioral health and psychotherapy experience in settings such as community and residential care, hospitals, and inpatient and outpatient facilities. My skills include working with rural populations and adults with mental illness such as bipolar disorder, PTSD, and alcohol and drug issues. Through my collaborative, person-centered, trauma-informed approach, I help my clients define what their own version of success looks like. I use a variety of tools such as motivational interviewing and cognitive behavioral therapy to develop individual care for my clients.
(740) 480-2667 View (740) 480-2667
Photo of Racheal Wilson, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Racheal Wilson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mentor, OH 44060
Racheal Wilson (she/her) is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who is supervised by Michael Pollak, PCC-S. She provides individual counseling to adolescents (16+) and adults. Her areas of focus include bipolar disorder, dual-diagnosis, substance-use disorders, schizophrenia spectrum and other psychotic disorders, complex trauma, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
Racheal Wilson (she/her) is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who is supervised by Michael Pollak, PCC-S. She provides individual counseling to adolescents (16+) and adults. Her areas of focus include bipolar disorder, dual-diagnosis, substance-use disorders, schizophrenia spectrum and other psychotic disorders, complex trauma, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
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Photo of Michael Tesler, LPCC, Counselor
Michael Tesler
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Beachwood, OH 44122  (Online Only)
Michael Tesler received his master’s degree in counseling and his bachelor’s degree in psychology from Cleveland State University. His previous experience includes providing counseling to school-aged children and their families. He has also served as a program manager for patients with dual diagnoses and for community members in need of housing placement. He provides individual counseling for adults ages 18-64. His treatment specialties include addiction, Attention Deficit-Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Michael Tesler received his master’s degree in counseling and his bachelor’s degree in psychology from Cleveland State University. His previous experience includes providing counseling to school-aged children and their families. He has also served as a program manager for patients with dual diagnoses and for community members in need of housing placement. He provides individual counseling for adults ages 18-64. His treatment specialties include addiction, Attention Deficit-Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
(216) 446-6924 View (216) 446-6924
Photo of Alyson Phelan, MA, Psychological Associate
Alyson Phelan
Psychological Associate, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mentor, OH 44060  (Online Only)
I have worked with mood disorders including schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, panic disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, and eating disorders at every level of care including Inpatient, Partial Hospitalization, Intensive Outpatient, and Individual treatment modalities.
I work with both adolescents and adults using a compassionate and caring approach that includes skills based training for practical outcomes based on their values and goals. Using a collaborative approach, we will work to solve problems using skills and move through challenges in the most effective way possible. I use both person-centered and motivational interviewing styles with an emphasis in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy to assist patients in staying present in the moment while preparing to move forward. I accept patients where they are now and work with them to learn about their diagnosis and move ahead in their lives.
I have worked with mood disorders including schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, panic disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, and eating disorders at every level of care including Inpatient, Partial Hospitalization, Intensive Outpatient, and Individual treatment modalities.
I work with both adolescents and adults using a compassionate and caring approach that includes skills based training for practical outcomes based on their values and goals. Using a collaborative approach, we will work to solve problems using skills and move through challenges in the most effective way possible. I use both person-centered and motivational interviewing styles with an emphasis in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy to assist patients in staying present in the moment while preparing to move forward. I accept patients where they are now and work with them to learn about their diagnosis and move ahead in their lives.
(440) 332-4196 View (440) 332-4196
Photo of Dr. Lynn Luna Jones, PhD, ABPP, Psychologist
Dr. Lynn Luna Jones
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Chagrin Falls, OH 44023
Luna Jones provides psychological testing for a host of clinical issues, including, but not limited to, ADHD, autism, giftedness, learning disabilities, bipolar disorder, and neuropsychological concerns.
Dr. Lynn Luna Jones earned her Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology from Temple University in 2004 and is a licensed psychologist. She has 20 years of experience in the field of psychology and has worked with children, adolescents, and adults, providing individual, family, couples, and group counseling services. She specializes in diagnostic assessment and is skilled in administering intellectual, achievement, personality, vocational, adaptive functioning, and other specialized tests.
Luna Jones provides psychological testing for a host of clinical issues, including, but not limited to, ADHD, autism, giftedness, learning disabilities, bipolar disorder, and neuropsychological concerns.
Dr. Lynn Luna Jones earned her Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology from Temple University in 2004 and is a licensed psychologist. She has 20 years of experience in the field of psychology and has worked with children, adolescents, and adults, providing individual, family, couples, and group counseling services. She specializes in diagnostic assessment and is skilled in administering intellectual, achievement, personality, vocational, adaptive functioning, and other specialized tests.
(440) 306-3419 View (440) 306-3419
Photo of Lori Wolfe, LPCC-S, Counselor
Lori Wolfe
Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Chagrin Falls, OH 44023  (Online Only)
Lori also helps people with anger management issues, bipolar disorder, borderline personality, conduct issues, domestic violence, gender identity, grief, LGBTQ+ issues, OCD, phobias, PTSD, and sexual disorders/addictions.
Lori Wolfe earned her master's degree from Ohio University in 1994. She has worked in private practice settings, as well as community mental health. Lori's treatment focus is couples, adults, and very young children. She specializes in helping families with parenting concerns and new mothers experiencing postpartum depression. Lori is adept in assisting couples with marital issues and she has a wealth of experience treating adults with anxiety and depression.
Lori also helps people with anger management issues, bipolar disorder, borderline personality, conduct issues, domestic violence, gender identity, grief, LGBTQ+ issues, OCD, phobias, PTSD, and sexual disorders/addictions.
Lori Wolfe earned her master's degree from Ohio University in 1994. She has worked in private practice settings, as well as community mental health. Lori's treatment focus is couples, adults, and very young children. She specializes in helping families with parenting concerns and new mothers experiencing postpartum depression. Lori is adept in assisting couples with marital issues and she has a wealth of experience treating adults with anxiety and depression.
(216) 208-4909 View (216) 208-4909
Photo of Michael Accardo, PhD, Psychologist
Michael Accardo
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Gates Mills, OH 44040  (Online Only)
My extensive clinical experience includes the successful treatment of individuals grappling with Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, OCD-spectrum, and PTSD.
I have crafted a career working with Transgender and Gender Diverse individuals, recognizing their unique challenges, providing specialized care that validates their identities, and receiving specialty training and support through WPATH. Additionally, my expertise extends to working with Autistic and Neurodivergent individuals, building an accommodating environment to optimize therapeutic outcomes and enhance a sense of identity. I have a particular focus on addressing Racial Stress and Trauma, ensuring culturally competent care. We all have unique perspectives and strengths that can be cultivated to overcome any challenge.
My extensive clinical experience includes the successful treatment of individuals grappling with Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, OCD-spectrum, and PTSD.
I have crafted a career working with Transgender and Gender Diverse individuals, recognizing their unique challenges, providing specialized care that validates their identities, and receiving specialty training and support through WPATH. Additionally, my expertise extends to working with Autistic and Neurodivergent individuals, building an accommodating environment to optimize therapeutic outcomes and enhance a sense of identity. I have a particular focus on addressing Racial Stress and Trauma, ensuring culturally competent care. We all have unique perspectives and strengths that can be cultivated to overcome any challenge.
(844) 287-4228 View (844) 287-4228
Photo of Michael Tesler, LPCC-S, Counselor
Michael Tesler
Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Beachwood, OH 44122
Michael Tesler received his master's degree in counseling and his bachelor's degree in psychology from Cleveland State University. His previous experience includes providing counseling to school-aged children and their families. He has also served as a program manager for patients with dual diagnoses and for community members in need of housing placement. He provides individual counseling for adults ages 18-64. His treatment specialties include addiction, Attention Deficit-Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), bipolar disorder,depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Michael Tesler received his master's degree in counseling and his bachelor's degree in psychology from Cleveland State University. His previous experience includes providing counseling to school-aged children and their families. He has also served as a program manager for patients with dual diagnoses and for community members in need of housing placement. He provides individual counseling for adults ages 18-64. His treatment specialties include addiction, Attention Deficit-Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), bipolar disorder,depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
(216) 294-2815 View (216) 294-2815
Photo of Timothy Warneka, LPCC-S
Timothy Warneka
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Willoughby Hills, OH 44094
In addition to treating general issues of anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorders, his clinical interests include working with trauma, spiritual issues, narcissistic personality disorder, sex / porn addictions, workplace bullying, and sexual abuse.
With over 25 years of experience providing counseling and psychotherapy services, Mr. Warneka sees men and women, specializing in working with leaders, medical professionals, and mental health professionals. He earned an undergraduate degree from the University of Dayton and his graduate degree from Cleveland State University. He has also completed several extensive post-graduate training programs.
In addition to treating general issues of anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorders, his clinical interests include working with trauma, spiritual issues, narcissistic personality disorder, sex / porn addictions, workplace bullying, and sexual abuse.
With over 25 years of experience providing counseling and psychotherapy services, Mr. Warneka sees men and women, specializing in working with leaders, medical professionals, and mental health professionals. He earned an undergraduate degree from the University of Dayton and his graduate degree from Cleveland State University. He has also completed several extensive post-graduate training programs.
(440) 762-6294 View (440) 762-6294
Photo of Haley Wheeler, LCSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Haley Wheeler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Chagrin Falls, OH 44022  (Online Only)
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 20+ years of experience, I provide compassionate support to individuals facing emotional conflicts and daily challenges. My diverse background includes inpatient psychiatric centers and mobile crisis teams, enriching my private practice. I specialize in working with clients managing ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and postpartum depression. My client-centered, empathic approach helps you achieve your goals and improve your quality of life. Together, we'll create strategies tailored to your needs, fostering resilience and a balanced, fulfilling life.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 20+ years of experience, I provide compassionate support to individuals facing emotional conflicts and daily challenges. My diverse background includes inpatient psychiatric centers and mobile crisis teams, enriching my private practice. I specialize in working with clients managing ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and postpartum depression. My client-centered, empathic approach helps you achieve your goals and improve your quality of life. Together, we'll create strategies tailored to your needs, fostering resilience and a balanced, fulfilling life.
(440) 530-6437 View (440) 530-6437
Photo of William Hamilton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
William Hamilton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Beachwood, OH 44122
His areas of specialty interest include treatment for childhood trauma, men's issues, domestic violence, bipolar disorder, learning disability management, stress, depression and relationship issues, using cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and motivational interviewing.
Bill Hamilton received his master's degree in social work from Case Western Reserve University and his bachelor's degree from Baldwin-Wallace College. He served in supervisory and investigation positions with the Cuyahoga County Department of Children and Family Services for 20 years. He is a member of the International Dyslexia Association and on the Board of Directors with the Lutheran Metropolitan Ministries START program, which serves at-risk youth. He also serves as an adjunct instructor for Case Western Reserve and Cleveland State Universities.
His areas of specialty interest include treatment for childhood trauma, men's issues, domestic violence, bipolar disorder, learning disability management, stress, depression and relationship issues, using cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and motivational interviewing.
Bill Hamilton received his master's degree in social work from Case Western Reserve University and his bachelor's degree from Baldwin-Wallace College. He served in supervisory and investigation positions with the Cuyahoga County Department of Children and Family Services for 20 years. He is a member of the International Dyslexia Association and on the Board of Directors with the Lutheran Metropolitan Ministries START program, which serves at-risk youth. He also serves as an adjunct instructor for Case Western Reserve and Cleveland State Universities.
(216) 716-2698 View (216) 716-2698
Photo of Lindsay Feingold, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lindsay Feingold
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chagrin Falls, OH 44022
A therapeutic relationship based on safety and trust is essential in affecting change. I'm a Licensed Independent Social Worker with twenty five years of experience practicing psychotherapy with adolescents and adults. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, grief and loss, and help to address life challenges, transitions, feelings of isolation and fear about the future. Additionally, I work with parents to assist and guide in the ever-challenging work of raising a teenager.
A therapeutic relationship based on safety and trust is essential in affecting change. I'm a Licensed Independent Social Worker with twenty five years of experience practicing psychotherapy with adolescents and adults. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, grief and loss, and help to address life challenges, transitions, feelings of isolation and fear about the future. Additionally, I work with parents to assist and guide in the ever-challenging work of raising a teenager.
(917) 789-1419 View (917) 789-1419
Photo of Dr. Noriyo Shoji-Schaffner, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Noriyo Shoji-Schaffner
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Beachwood, OH 44122
Are you navigating personality disorders, bipolar disorder, anxiety & depression, marital & familial conflicts, & grief? Are you ready to explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors to improve your well-being by being open to asking tough questions, tackling big issues, and pursuing outcomes with perseverance? My goal is to provide support in improving relationships, managing stress, overcoming trauma, adopting healthier coping skills, & embracing fulfilling life options. My 15 years of clinical experience as a racial/ethnic minority practitioner has allowed me to cultivate expertise to assist racial/ethnic minority groups.
Are you navigating personality disorders, bipolar disorder, anxiety & depression, marital & familial conflicts, & grief? Are you ready to explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors to improve your well-being by being open to asking tough questions, tackling big issues, and pursuing outcomes with perseverance? My goal is to provide support in improving relationships, managing stress, overcoming trauma, adopting healthier coping skills, & embracing fulfilling life options. My 15 years of clinical experience as a racial/ethnic minority practitioner has allowed me to cultivate expertise to assist racial/ethnic minority groups.
(216) 859-0829 View (216) 859-0829
Photo of Angela Grey, LPCC, Counselor
Angela Grey
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Willoughby Hills, OH 44094
Angela Grey has experience working in both inpatient and outpatient settings providing crisis intervention, stabilization and intensive counseling for adults, adolescents and children. She specializes in treating PTSD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, and has extensive experience working with victims of crime, sexual trauma, domestic violence, bullying and narcissistic abuse. A special area of interest is in assisting adolescents with the exploration of gender and sexual identities. Angela uses a client-centered approach, is goal-oriented and believes progress in treatment should be measurable.
Angela Grey has experience working in both inpatient and outpatient settings providing crisis intervention, stabilization and intensive counseling for adults, adolescents and children. She specializes in treating PTSD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, and has extensive experience working with victims of crime, sexual trauma, domestic violence, bullying and narcissistic abuse. A special area of interest is in assisting adolescents with the exploration of gender and sexual identities. Angela uses a client-centered approach, is goal-oriented and believes progress in treatment should be measurable.
(440) 703-6326 View (440) 703-6326
Photo of Maria D'Amico, LPCC, Counselor
Maria D'Amico
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Willoughby Hills, OH 44094
Maria D'Amico is a Licensed Professional Counselor, who has been practicing since 2008. She graduated from Ursuline College in Pepper Pike, Ohio with a Master's degree in Art Therapy and Counseling. Maria believes in the importance of the therapeutic relationship in the success of treatment, and uses interventions such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, mindfulness, and supportive therapy. Her main areas of focus include treating depression, anxiety, ADHD, and bipolar disorder. She has more expertise in treating children and women but is willing to help anyone where she is able.
Maria D'Amico is a Licensed Professional Counselor, who has been practicing since 2008. She graduated from Ursuline College in Pepper Pike, Ohio with a Master's degree in Art Therapy and Counseling. Maria believes in the importance of the therapeutic relationship in the success of treatment, and uses interventions such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, mindfulness, and supportive therapy. Her main areas of focus include treating depression, anxiety, ADHD, and bipolar disorder. She has more expertise in treating children and women but is willing to help anyone where she is able.
(440) 597-2589 View (440) 597-2589
Photo of Aaron Murray-Swank, PhD, Psychologist
Aaron Murray-Swank
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Gates Mills, OH 44040  (Online Only)
I also provide therapy for problems such as Bipolar Disorder, and often collaborate with other professionals to optimize treatment.
I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist with over twenty years of experience providing evidence-based psychotherapy to adults and couples with a wide range of presenting concerns. I focus on building a safe and collaborative relationship with clients while honoring their unique identities and experiences. I strive to create a space where clients feel seen, understood and empowered in therapy, as this is a foundation for successful growth and change. I am committed to providing effective and research-based therapies and enjoy the process of supporting clients in making positive changes in their lives and relationships.
I also provide therapy for problems such as Bipolar Disorder, and often collaborate with other professionals to optimize treatment.
I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist with over twenty years of experience providing evidence-based psychotherapy to adults and couples with a wide range of presenting concerns. I focus on building a safe and collaborative relationship with clients while honoring their unique identities and experiences. I strive to create a space where clients feel seen, understood and empowered in therapy, as this is a foundation for successful growth and change. I am committed to providing effective and research-based therapies and enjoy the process of supporting clients in making positive changes in their lives and relationships.
(844) 287-4228 View (844) 287-4228

See more therapy options for Chesterland

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.