Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Columbus, OH

Photo of Terrance Tufts, LPCC, Counselor
Terrance Tufts
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43221
I have served those with Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, Family Issues, etc. My ideal client is motivated to roll up their sleeves and engage in the therapeutic process. They have an open mind and can practice effective coping skills to improve their overall functioning and quality of life. They can challenge themselves to be vulnerable and practice accountability while processing their problematic thinking patterns and behaviors in a safe and non-judgmental environment. They wish to engage in therapy because they realize that they need to make a change and are willing to take a leap of faith to make it happen.
I have served those with Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, Family Issues, etc. My ideal client is motivated to roll up their sleeves and engage in the therapeutic process. They have an open mind and can practice effective coping skills to improve their overall functioning and quality of life. They can challenge themselves to be vulnerable and practice accountability while processing their problematic thinking patterns and behaviors in a safe and non-judgmental environment. They wish to engage in therapy because they realize that they need to make a change and are willing to take a leap of faith to make it happen.
(614) 683-3237 View (614) 683-3237
Photo of Melissa Elbert, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa Elbert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43212  (Online Only)
Melissa Elbert is a Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW) with over seven years of experience working with clients in their communities as well as in office. She is passionate about assisting clients meet their goals for treatment. She has experience working with adults and couples. Melissa has post graduate training in CBT, DBT, anxiety disorders, trauma-informed care, ADHD, and CPT. Melissa specializes in trauma, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and substance use disorders including alcohol use and opioid use.
Melissa Elbert is a Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW) with over seven years of experience working with clients in their communities as well as in office. She is passionate about assisting clients meet their goals for treatment. She has experience working with adults and couples. Melissa has post graduate training in CBT, DBT, anxiety disorders, trauma-informed care, ADHD, and CPT. Melissa specializes in trauma, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and substance use disorders including alcohol use and opioid use.
(614) 968-9351 View (614) 968-9351
Photo of Jarrod Beyler, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jarrod Beyler
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43204
I am a social worker and can help you with beating depression and anxiety. I see patients remotely via telemedicine services. In addition to my degree in social work, I have served in the US Army. I have experience working with clients who experience PTSD, depression, bipolar, grief, ADHD, and other mental health conditions. I would like to help my clients reach their goals and help them in finding the right tools to beat their conditions.
I am a social worker and can help you with beating depression and anxiety. I see patients remotely via telemedicine services. In addition to my degree in social work, I have served in the US Army. I have experience working with clients who experience PTSD, depression, bipolar, grief, ADHD, and other mental health conditions. I would like to help my clients reach their goals and help them in finding the right tools to beat their conditions.
(614) 635-7076 View (614) 635-7076
Photo of Racheal Wilson, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Racheal Wilson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43085
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 Tim Masters, LISW-S, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tim Masters
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43215  (Online Only)
I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, trauma and abuse, motivation, self-esteem and confidence, bipolar disorder, and OCD, amongst others.
I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, trauma and abuse, motivation, self-esteem and confidence, bipolar disorder, and OCD, amongst others.
(562) 456-3413 View (562) 456-3413
Photo of Cathy Ritterbusch, JD, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cathy Ritterbusch
Licensed Professional Counselor, JD, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43206
I have experience treating clients adjusting to life changes, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, childhood trauma, bipolar disorder, and grief.
Supportive empowerment are the two words that best describe my approach. I counsel adults at all life stages who are confronting challenges and changes, the uninvited and the ones you are seeking for yourself. With a wide variety of life experiences, including as a lawyer and professor previous to counseling, and a mental health odyssey of my own, I serve clients with passion and purpose. Curious what it would be like to be more alive? Reach out to me to schedule a free 15-minute consultation.
I have experience treating clients adjusting to life changes, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, childhood trauma, bipolar disorder, and grief.
Supportive empowerment are the two words that best describe my approach. I counsel adults at all life stages who are confronting challenges and changes, the uninvited and the ones you are seeking for yourself. With a wide variety of life experiences, including as a lawyer and professor previous to counseling, and a mental health odyssey of my own, I serve clients with passion and purpose. Curious what it would be like to be more alive? Reach out to me to schedule a free 15-minute consultation.
(614) 858-3206 View (614) 858-3206
Photo of Dr. Noriyo Shoji-Schaffner, PhD , LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Noriyo Shoji-Schaffner
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD , LPC
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43220
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.
(380) 204-9309 View (380) 204-9309
Photo of Sara Parko, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sara Parko
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43221  (Online Only)
My expertise also extends to anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, BPD, life transitions, sexual assault survivor services and trauma.
I specialize in working with women throughout transitions in life - namely the transition into motherhood. As a Perinatal Mental Health (also known as Maternal Mental Health) Specialist, I’ve received additional training in Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders through Postpartum Support International and appropriate interventions to support growing families. As a mother myself, I also know the challenges and joys of this phase of life and believe that we can all use a little more support.
My expertise also extends to anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, BPD, life transitions, sexual assault survivor services and trauma.
I specialize in working with women throughout transitions in life - namely the transition into motherhood. As a Perinatal Mental Health (also known as Maternal Mental Health) Specialist, I’ve received additional training in Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders through Postpartum Support International and appropriate interventions to support growing families. As a mother myself, I also know the challenges and joys of this phase of life and believe that we can all use a little more support.
(614) 660-5529 View (614) 660-5529
Photo of Katherine Cordier, LPC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katherine Cordier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LPC
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43230  (Online Only)
My treatment experience includes working with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, grief, career exploration, trauma, relationship issues, life transitions, boundary setting, and change management.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who has been practicing since 2024. I hold a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, a Master of Science in Business Administration, and a Master of Science in Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Dayton. I'm currently under supervision until 2026. I enjoy making multidimensional connections within the world, building relationships, and guiding individuals through their personal and interpersonal challenges. My clients have commonly describe me as an optimistic, realistic, and eclectic counselor.
My treatment experience includes working with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, grief, career exploration, trauma, relationship issues, life transitions, boundary setting, and change management.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who has been practicing since 2024. I hold a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, a Master of Science in Business Administration, and a Master of Science in Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Dayton. I'm currently under supervision until 2026. I enjoy making multidimensional connections within the world, building relationships, and guiding individuals through their personal and interpersonal challenges. My clients have commonly describe me as an optimistic, realistic, and eclectic counselor.
(614) 756-5474 View (614) 756-5474
Photo of Jessica Gilliland, MSW, LSW, CDCA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Gilliland
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW, CDCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43230
I have worked with clients struggling with depression, anxiety, behavioral issues, bipolar disorder, group therapy, and family counseling.
I have a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Ohio University and a Master’s Degree in Social Work from the University of Kentucky. In addition, I am also certified in Clinical Social Work and Substance Misuse Disorder. I began her therapeutic career as a Mental Health Therapist in a male youth residential behavioral treatment facility, treating children of all ages. I have also worked in outpatient therapeutic settings, in-patient substance abuse treatment facilities, as well as many others.
I have worked with clients struggling with depression, anxiety, behavioral issues, bipolar disorder, group therapy, and family counseling.
I have a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Ohio University and a Master’s Degree in Social Work from the University of Kentucky. In addition, I am also certified in Clinical Social Work and Substance Misuse Disorder. I began her therapeutic career as a Mental Health Therapist in a male youth residential behavioral treatment facility, treating children of all ages. I have also worked in outpatient therapeutic settings, in-patient substance abuse treatment facilities, as well as many others.
(614) 656-7025 View (614) 656-7025
Photo of Stephanie K Starks - Starks Counseling & Consultation Services, LLC, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Starks Counseling & Consultation Services, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43215
She also treats clients who struggle with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, & personality disorders.
Stephanie K. Starks, LISW-S, is a therapist and owner of Starks Counseling & Consultation Services, LLC . She 20 years of experience providing trauma-focused therapy. The goal at Starks Counseling is to provide “hope and healing” in a calm, supportive, and non-judgmental therapeutic environment. She and her staff do this by empowering their clients with the knowledge, skills and confidence to be active participants in their own healing, as they believe that they are all simply vessels in which to help facilitate the healing process.
She also treats clients who struggle with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, & personality disorders.
Stephanie K. Starks, LISW-S, is a therapist and owner of Starks Counseling & Consultation Services, LLC . She 20 years of experience providing trauma-focused therapy. The goal at Starks Counseling is to provide “hope and healing” in a calm, supportive, and non-judgmental therapeutic environment. She and her staff do this by empowering their clients with the knowledge, skills and confidence to be active participants in their own healing, as they believe that they are all simply vessels in which to help facilitate the healing process.
(614) 831-1396 View (614) 831-1396
Photo of Amy J. Hohman, MSW, LISW-S, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy J. Hohman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S, CCTP
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43212  (Online Only)
I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults coping with challenges related to stress management, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar, depression, conflict, PTSD, self-esteem, self-harming as well as many others.
“In order to be irreplaceable, one must always be different.” -Coco Chanel We all have different life experiences, beliefs, values, strengths, challenges, obstacles, levels of support, etc. I utilize an integrative approach that allows me to work with you to tailor treatment to meet your unique needs. Therapeutic techniques can be integrated from Solution-Focused, Strengths-Based, Culturally Sensitive, Cognitive Behavioral, Acceptance and Commitment, Psychodynamic, Eye Movement Desensitization and Restructuring (EMDR), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Motivational Interviewing, and Positive Psychology.
I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults coping with challenges related to stress management, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar, depression, conflict, PTSD, self-esteem, self-harming as well as many others.
“In order to be irreplaceable, one must always be different.” -Coco Chanel We all have different life experiences, beliefs, values, strengths, challenges, obstacles, levels of support, etc. I utilize an integrative approach that allows me to work with you to tailor treatment to meet your unique needs. Therapeutic techniques can be integrated from Solution-Focused, Strengths-Based, Culturally Sensitive, Cognitive Behavioral, Acceptance and Commitment, Psychodynamic, Eye Movement Desensitization and Restructuring (EMDR), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Motivational Interviewing, and Positive Psychology.
(614) 963-3963 View (614) 963-3963
Photo of Barbara Cain, LPCC-S
Barbara Cain
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43214
I came onto the counseling scene as an empty nester looking for a way to share my experience and hope with others, and I have never felt more in tune with life than since I started seeing clients in 2014. My approach to counseling is warm, caring and positive. I use a combination of personal experience, professional models and education to help clients learn how to reframe how they see the world and themselves. I’m here to help you achieve the goals that we set together. You are not alone in your journey. I truly enjoy working with all adults for work stress, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder and obsessive/compulsive disorder.
I came onto the counseling scene as an empty nester looking for a way to share my experience and hope with others, and I have never felt more in tune with life than since I started seeing clients in 2014. My approach to counseling is warm, caring and positive. I use a combination of personal experience, professional models and education to help clients learn how to reframe how they see the world and themselves. I’m here to help you achieve the goals that we set together. You are not alone in your journey. I truly enjoy working with all adults for work stress, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder and obsessive/compulsive disorder.
(614) 756-6600 View (614) 756-6600
Photo of Monika Zoretic, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Monika Zoretic
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43219
I am experienced helping people with eating disorders, mood disorders (depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder), trauma, and PTSD. Adoption and blended family problems are also close to my heart and I enjoy helping others in these areas. I am Star Behavioral Health Tier 2 trained and have lived the military life as a spouse of a career Marine. I work with those aged 5 and older. If you need someone who can really listen to you and help you figure out how to change your life for the better, I can help you.
I am experienced helping people with eating disorders, mood disorders (depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder), trauma, and PTSD. Adoption and blended family problems are also close to my heart and I enjoy helping others in these areas. I am Star Behavioral Health Tier 2 trained and have lived the military life as a spouse of a career Marine. I work with those aged 5 and older. If you need someone who can really listen to you and help you figure out how to change your life for the better, I can help you.
(614) 441-9988 View (614) 441-9988
Photo of Jason Duffield, MA, MEd, LPCC, Counselor
Jason Duffield
Counselor, MA, MEd, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43206
Welcome! I am now accepting new clients! I have experience counseling from a variety of social, cultural, and generational backgrounds. My clinical experience includes anxiety/stress, depression, obsessive compulsion, bipolar, trauma, grief, personality, identity, LGBTQ+ population, sexual concerns, disassociation, self-esteem, spirituality, ADHD, and multicultural concerns. I aim to foster a comfortable space for clients to express themselves freely, without judgement, and to grow as individuals. I am a part of the City Counseling practice in German Village, Columbus, Ohio and can see clients in person or virtually across Ohio..
Welcome! I am now accepting new clients! I have experience counseling from a variety of social, cultural, and generational backgrounds. My clinical experience includes anxiety/stress, depression, obsessive compulsion, bipolar, trauma, grief, personality, identity, LGBTQ+ population, sexual concerns, disassociation, self-esteem, spirituality, ADHD, and multicultural concerns. I aim to foster a comfortable space for clients to express themselves freely, without judgement, and to grow as individuals. I am a part of the City Counseling practice in German Village, Columbus, Ohio and can see clients in person or virtually across Ohio..
(614) 333-0439 View (614) 333-0439
Photo of Alicia Jones, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alicia Jones
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43230
I have years of experience treating individuals in various settings, but I specialize in treating adults suffering with trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, life transitions, bipolar, and substance use.
I view individuals as experts on themselves and believe in working collaboratively with clients to develop meaningful goals and treatment plans unique to them. I am passionate about increasing one’s sense of belonging and connection, quality of life, and effective coping skills. I utilize Dialectic Behavioral Therapy (DBT) techniques, Person-Centered Therapy, and Existential approaches most frequently: however, I am confident with other evidence-based approaches to tailor to client’s needs.
I have years of experience treating individuals in various settings, but I specialize in treating adults suffering with trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, life transitions, bipolar, and substance use.
I view individuals as experts on themselves and believe in working collaboratively with clients to develop meaningful goals and treatment plans unique to them. I am passionate about increasing one’s sense of belonging and connection, quality of life, and effective coping skills. I utilize Dialectic Behavioral Therapy (DBT) techniques, Person-Centered Therapy, and Existential approaches most frequently: however, I am confident with other evidence-based approaches to tailor to client’s needs.
(614) 656-7025 View (614) 656-7025
Photo of Megan Roesch, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Megan Roesch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43212
Do you find that mental health tends to rule your life? Do you feel like you have no control over your own thoughts and feelings? Maybe you find yourself struggling to get through the day or are terrified to communicate your own needs. Trauma has the ugly power to influence these aspects of daily living and many others. If this sounds like you, let's talk! I have over 6 years of experience in supporting those living with the effects of traumatic events, difficult life transitions, anxiety and depressive disorders, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and substance use.
Do you find that mental health tends to rule your life? Do you feel like you have no control over your own thoughts and feelings? Maybe you find yourself struggling to get through the day or are terrified to communicate your own needs. Trauma has the ugly power to influence these aspects of daily living and many others. If this sounds like you, let's talk! I have over 6 years of experience in supporting those living with the effects of traumatic events, difficult life transitions, anxiety and depressive disorders, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and substance use.
(614) 618-3844 View (614) 618-3844
Photo of Debbie Sherman, LPCC
Debbie Sherman
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43213
Debbie Sherman, LPCC, is a licensed professional clinical counselor. She received her bachelor's degree in psychology from The Ohio State University. She received her master's degree in clinical counseling from the University of Dayton. Debbie has over 25 years of experience providing individual counseling in a variety of settings which include community mental health, private practice and the Hospice of Columbus. Debbie works with adults dealing with a variety of concerns which include anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, obsessive compulsive disorders, weight concerns, bereavement, stress and relationship concerns.
Debbie Sherman, LPCC, is a licensed professional clinical counselor. She received her bachelor's degree in psychology from The Ohio State University. She received her master's degree in clinical counseling from the University of Dayton. Debbie has over 25 years of experience providing individual counseling in a variety of settings which include community mental health, private practice and the Hospice of Columbus. Debbie works with adults dealing with a variety of concerns which include anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, obsessive compulsive disorders, weight concerns, bereavement, stress and relationship concerns.
(380) 666-4948 View (380) 666-4948
Photo of Dr. Noriyo Shoji-Schaffner, PhD , LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Noriyo Shoji-Schaffner
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD , LPC
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43221
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.
(614) 739-8516 View (614) 739-8516
Photo of Suzanne C. Saul, PhD, Psychologist
Suzanne C. Saul
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43220
My areas of expertise include relationship and intimacy enhancement: developmental transitions throughout the life cycle; relationship loss; mood disorders, such as depression, bipolar illness, anxiety, panic attacks and obsessive-compulsive behaviors.
I am a licensed psychologist who has been in private practice for more than three decades. I believe in carefully listening and then being interactive. I share ideas and possible things to do to challenge old behaviors and erroneous beliefs about oneself. I am a big believer in when one has a bigger picture of one’s self and their back story then real change can occur.
My areas of expertise include relationship and intimacy enhancement: developmental transitions throughout the life cycle; relationship loss; mood disorders, such as depression, bipolar illness, anxiety, panic attacks and obsessive-compulsive behaviors.
I am a licensed psychologist who has been in private practice for more than three decades. I believe in carefully listening and then being interactive. I share ideas and possible things to do to challenge old behaviors and erroneous beliefs about oneself. I am a big believer in when one has a bigger picture of one’s self and their back story then real change can occur.
(614) 626-5110 View (614) 626-5110
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.