Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Happy Valley, OR
![Photo of Michelle Whitney, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/397800f2-5cf3-4a75-9a5e-711fa6bb99c3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Michelle Whitney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Happy Valley, OR 97086 (Online Only)
Hello! I am a licensed clinical social worker in Oregon. I obtained my graduate degree in social work from Portland State University in 2007. I specialize in working with clients who struggle with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, trauma, substance use, grief and loss, chronic illness, interpersonal relationships and life transitions. I am interested in helping those that are struggling with situational stressors or long-standing concerns.
Hello! I am a licensed clinical social worker in Oregon. I obtained my graduate degree in social work from Portland State University in 2007. I specialize in working with clients who struggle with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, trauma, substance use, grief and loss, chronic illness, interpersonal relationships and life transitions. I am interested in helping those that are struggling with situational stressors or long-standing concerns.
![Photo of Don Dodson, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c04239c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
With regard to adults, my focus has been on treating depression, anxiety, ADHD, life adjustments (divorce, unemployment, death of a loved one), and bipolar disorder.
Therapy can be a tremendously rewarding and enlightening experience leading to lifelong change. My approach to working with clients is to tailor my interventions to meet their specific needs and to work with them in a collaborative fashion to help them access their own strengths and wisdom.
My first priority is to listen,to understand your perspective and life experience. I will then work with you to help you gain insight into your current challenges. My goal is to address your problems directly, assist you in finding solutions, and get you back into your life as soon as possible.
With regard to adults, my focus has been on treating depression, anxiety, ADHD, life adjustments (divorce, unemployment, death of a loved one), and bipolar disorder.
Therapy can be a tremendously rewarding and enlightening experience leading to lifelong change. My approach to working with clients is to tailor my interventions to meet their specific needs and to work with them in a collaborative fashion to help them access their own strengths and wisdom.
My first priority is to listen,to understand your perspective and life experience. I will then work with you to help you gain insight into your current challenges. My goal is to address your problems directly, assist you in finding solutions, and get you back into your life as soon as possible.
![Photo of Katy Schaefer, LCSW , CADCI, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2ebdbe81-ae69-4cae-be5e-24fef819419e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Katy Schaefer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW , CADCI
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Happy Valley, OR 97015
Areas of specialty include, substance use disorders, women's issues, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, postpartum depression/anxiety and new parent transition, stage of life adjustment, persistent and/or chronic pain.
Accepting new clients, 18+. Empowering clients to listen to their core self so you can more openly make decisions based on your priorities and goals is at the heart of the therapy work we will do together. I have often been told by clients that I have a way of addressing difficult topics or giving perspective in a way that is compassionate, strength-based, skill focused. Creating a safe, non-judgmental space that is full of encouragement, acknowledgement and welcomes feedback to inform progress potential is a commitment I remain steadfast in. I incorporate several modalities including CBT, DBT, Mindfulness and ACT.
Areas of specialty include, substance use disorders, women's issues, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, postpartum depression/anxiety and new parent transition, stage of life adjustment, persistent and/or chronic pain.
Accepting new clients, 18+. Empowering clients to listen to their core self so you can more openly make decisions based on your priorities and goals is at the heart of the therapy work we will do together. I have often been told by clients that I have a way of addressing difficult topics or giving perspective in a way that is compassionate, strength-based, skill focused. Creating a safe, non-judgmental space that is full of encouragement, acknowledgement and welcomes feedback to inform progress potential is a commitment I remain steadfast in. I incorporate several modalities including CBT, DBT, Mindfulness and ACT.
![Photo of Dawnne Howard Professional Counselor Associate, MA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6b1fa7cc-bcbf-409e-be19-b78c2e665360/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dawnne Howard Professional Counselor Associate
Professional Counselor Associate, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Happy Valley, OR 97086 (Online Only)
My approach includes understanding that trust and rapport is important to foster a therapeutic relationship that can help facilitate the change you want to see in your life. The belief that each person is uniquely made from their specific experiences drives my passion to connect and tailor treatment to each person’s individual needs. Treatment with me includes helping you reach your goals by helping you develop the tools and skills needed to grow in confidence as you become the person you want to be. I enjoy working on topics that include but are not limited to building self-esteem and self-worth, learning to manage strong emotions.
My approach includes understanding that trust and rapport is important to foster a therapeutic relationship that can help facilitate the change you want to see in your life. The belief that each person is uniquely made from their specific experiences drives my passion to connect and tailor treatment to each person’s individual needs. Treatment with me includes helping you reach your goals by helping you develop the tools and skills needed to grow in confidence as you become the person you want to be. I enjoy working on topics that include but are not limited to building self-esteem and self-worth, learning to manage strong emotions.
![Photo of Jane Leng, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0e46172a-9b85-4173-adea-0420ca603f7d/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a trauma therapist, I specialize in working with adults who suffer from the symptoms of traumatic stress or post traumatic stress disorder. The symptoms of trauma often include, panic attacks, anxiety, depression, sleep disturbances, nightmares and flashbacks, lack of concentration, ADD, binge eating and negative body image. All of these symptoms may be a result of unprocessed trauma that has become stuck in the mind and the body. There is a tremendous amount of promise in mental health healing available through trauma treatment.
As a trauma therapist, I specialize in working with adults who suffer from the symptoms of traumatic stress or post traumatic stress disorder. The symptoms of trauma often include, panic attacks, anxiety, depression, sleep disturbances, nightmares and flashbacks, lack of concentration, ADD, binge eating and negative body image. All of these symptoms may be a result of unprocessed trauma that has become stuck in the mind and the body. There is a tremendous amount of promise in mental health healing available through trauma treatment.
![Photo of Tiffany Kettermann, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/420b9afd-9bae-477c-af42-c24d738f7e5b/3/320x400.jpeg)
Are you struggling to understand a relationship that may be abusive, trying to heal from trauma, or need support with gender, identity, or LGBTQ2SIA+ issues? Health Allies specializes in healing from narcissistic abuse, domestic violence, PTSD, and trauma. We also have many therapist who specialize and identify with the LGBTQ2SIA+ community. If you have struggled with any of the above, we can help you sort out your goals for healing and help you get to a better place.
Are you struggling to understand a relationship that may be abusive, trying to heal from trauma, or need support with gender, identity, or LGBTQ2SIA+ issues? Health Allies specializes in healing from narcissistic abuse, domestic violence, PTSD, and trauma. We also have many therapist who specialize and identify with the LGBTQ2SIA+ community. If you have struggled with any of the above, we can help you sort out your goals for healing and help you get to a better place.
![Photo of Cary Lazara Coll, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/420b5f63-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Empowerment comes from being open to exploring your inner strength as a means of gaining insight and knowledge. I strive to provide a safe, nonjudgmental, compassionate space for self-discovery. Through the Empowerment Model I use an eclectic, client centered, and strength based approach to finding healing and growth in the midst of challenges. By exploring the origin of symptoms and how they influence thoughts and behaviors we can overcome obstacles to feeling genuine health and wellness.
Empowerment comes from being open to exploring your inner strength as a means of gaining insight and knowledge. I strive to provide a safe, nonjudgmental, compassionate space for self-discovery. Through the Empowerment Model I use an eclectic, client centered, and strength based approach to finding healing and growth in the midst of challenges. By exploring the origin of symptoms and how they influence thoughts and behaviors we can overcome obstacles to feeling genuine health and wellness.
![Photo of Maribel Aheran - Neupathway (Maribel Aheran), Eed, LPC, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d5144a6c-8758-4c1f-a87e-a365ef2a33fc/1/320x400.png)
Neupathway (Maribel Aheran)
Licensed Professional Counselor, Eed, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Happy Valley, OR 97086
Accepting New Patients, same week availability................................... Maribel Aheran Ed.D, LMHC-QS, NCC, MCAP is a bilingual (English & Spanish) licensed clinical mental health counselor with over 12 years of experience treating children, adolescents, college students, and adults. She completed a bachelor's degree in education from Caribbean University, a master's degree in English for speakers of other languages from Turabo University, a master's degree in Counseling and Psychology from Troy University, and a doctorate degree in education from Edgewood College.
Accepting New Patients, same week availability................................... Maribel Aheran Ed.D, LMHC-QS, NCC, MCAP is a bilingual (English & Spanish) licensed clinical mental health counselor with over 12 years of experience treating children, adolescents, college students, and adults. She completed a bachelor's degree in education from Caribbean University, a master's degree in English for speakers of other languages from Turabo University, a master's degree in Counseling and Psychology from Troy University, and a doctorate degree in education from Edgewood College.
![Photo of Stacie C Larson - Inner Strength Counseling, LLC, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/506a9624-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Inner Strength Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Happy Valley, OR 97086
Not accepting new clients
We all have the strength within to heal with help. Starting therapy can be a scary process and you have taken the first and often hardest step. We can work together towards finding the best you. My approach is goal-oriented and focuses on how we can get you feeling better now. I utilize trauma and somatic therapeutic techniques including Internal Family Systems (IFS), trauma focused CBT, DBT and EMDR. I will help you identify the areas you want to work on and we will make a plan together to make this happen.
We all have the strength within to heal with help. Starting therapy can be a scary process and you have taken the first and often hardest step. We can work together towards finding the best you. My approach is goal-oriented and focuses on how we can get you feeling better now. I utilize trauma and somatic therapeutic techniques including Internal Family Systems (IFS), trauma focused CBT, DBT and EMDR. I will help you identify the areas you want to work on and we will make a plan together to make this happen.
![Photo of Barbara Majors - Trellis Counseling, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6bbf72cc-271e-4cb2-a9cd-73f211a9498b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Trellis Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Happy Valley, OR 97015
Not accepting new clients
Our waitlist is currently full. "Why am I not over this already?" If you find yourself asking that, maybe we can help. We work with people struggling due to past experiences or recent trauma. Whether the impact those experiences have on them is big or small, we believe that healing and hope occur within a healthy therapeutic relationship. We've been privileged to help hundreds of struggling individuals.
Our waitlist is currently full. "Why am I not over this already?" If you find yourself asking that, maybe we can help. We work with people struggling due to past experiences or recent trauma. Whether the impact those experiences have on them is big or small, we believe that healing and hope occur within a healthy therapeutic relationship. We've been privileged to help hundreds of struggling individuals.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Alex Perez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/546a068f-3ddd-42e4-a9ae-b7799eaa32d0/2/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in issues important to teenagers and young adults/families, including issues related to family dynamics, depression, anxiety, bipolar/schizophrenia, substance abuse concerns, transracial adoptions, grief, LGBTQ dynamics, racial identity, gender transitioning process, and abandonment trauma. My relational approach to therapy can help you gain awareness of your road blocks and provide you with the tools (skills/coping strategies) you have for your own growth.
I specialize in issues important to teenagers and young adults/families, including issues related to family dynamics, depression, anxiety, bipolar/schizophrenia, substance abuse concerns, transracial adoptions, grief, LGBTQ dynamics, racial identity, gender transitioning process, and abandonment trauma. My relational approach to therapy can help you gain awareness of your road blocks and provide you with the tools (skills/coping strategies) you have for your own growth.
![Photo of Jeremy Steenstrup Balthazar, MA, QMHP-R](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7b07856c-b499-46fb-9eec-58ccef8bcae1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jeremy Steenstrup Balthazar
Professional Counselor Associate, MA, QMHP-R
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97266
I've recently joined a group practice located in Sellwood, Psychology & Wellness Group PDX. I am accepting clients and appointments can be scheduled by phone or through their website www.psychologyandwellnessgrouppdx.com. My practice is grounded in existential therapy which recognizes the importance of meaning, relationships, autonomy, authenticity, agency, creativity, and connection for acceptance, growth, and change. My experience includes working with bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, grief and bereavement, personality disorders, psychotic disorders, ADHD, sex addiction, substance addiction, and interpersonal relationships.
I've recently joined a group practice located in Sellwood, Psychology & Wellness Group PDX. I am accepting clients and appointments can be scheduled by phone or through their website www.psychologyandwellnessgrouppdx.com. My practice is grounded in existential therapy which recognizes the importance of meaning, relationships, autonomy, authenticity, agency, creativity, and connection for acceptance, growth, and change. My experience includes working with bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, grief and bereavement, personality disorders, psychotic disorders, ADHD, sex addiction, substance addiction, and interpersonal relationships.
![Photo of Mountain Crest Counseling - Mountain Crest Counseling Services, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/130eb583-d415-4c6f-93db-41ae90f1de06/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mountain Crest Counseling Services, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97086
Mountain Crest Counseling Services is focused on providing high-quality service for those seeking growth and change. Our therapists are client-focused and work collaboratively with you to achieve your goals. Our therapists work with clients to gain greater insight, self-awareness, and self-compassion through a variety of different frameworks to include but not limited to DBT, CBT, Art Therapy, Brainspotting and Strength Based approaches.
Mountain Crest Counseling Services is focused on providing high-quality service for those seeking growth and change. Our therapists are client-focused and work collaboratively with you to achieve your goals. Our therapists work with clients to gain greater insight, self-awareness, and self-compassion through a variety of different frameworks to include but not limited to DBT, CBT, Art Therapy, Brainspotting and Strength Based approaches.
![Photo of Jessica Buice, MA Ed](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f48e1886-0f67-4f91-8699-a24fa0463b36/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jessica Buice
Professional Counselor Associate, MA Ed
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97086
I consider it a true privilege to sit with folx in the processing of life’s complexities and approach the therapeutic process with the perspective that we are all doing the very best that we can with the tools that we’ve been given. It is my belief that each of us has the capacity to hone new skills, heal from the past, and find greater alignment within our bodies and our lives. I operate from a person-centered lens, utilizing empathic connection and unconditional positive regard to provide a safe space for personal healing.
I consider it a true privilege to sit with folx in the processing of life’s complexities and approach the therapeutic process with the perspective that we are all doing the very best that we can with the tools that we’ve been given. It is my belief that each of us has the capacity to hone new skills, heal from the past, and find greater alignment within our bodies and our lives. I operate from a person-centered lens, utilizing empathic connection and unconditional positive regard to provide a safe space for personal healing.
![Photo of Isael Vanegas, LCSW, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aa21a51b-7758-4f6b-90c6-d562c73241e7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Isael Vanegas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
Clackamas, OR 97015 (Online Only)
Life is full of challenges and obstacles that we often feel we are unable to overcome. My goal is to help you discover your inner strength and motivation to keep moving forward, even when it feels too painful. I find that building strong relationships with others helps keep us emotionally regulated and feeling connected. I place heavy importance on building a strong therapeutic relationship during our initial sessions. This will help create a compassionate, safe, and growth-fostering environment where progress is inevitable.
Life is full of challenges and obstacles that we often feel we are unable to overcome. My goal is to help you discover your inner strength and motivation to keep moving forward, even when it feels too painful. I find that building strong relationships with others helps keep us emotionally regulated and feeling connected. I place heavy importance on building a strong therapeutic relationship during our initial sessions. This will help create a compassionate, safe, and growth-fostering environment where progress is inevitable.
![Photo of Natalie (Nat) Day, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9047aca5-dc6d-41da-80d4-5301ae702b1e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Natalie (Nat) Day
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Clackamas, OR 97015 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Natalie (Nat) Day, LCSW graduated from Boise State University with a Masters in Social Work in 2018. Over the last decade she's worked in residential treatment, on-campus college counseling, substance abuse treatment, inpatient psychiatric care, and community mental health. Specializing in the treatment of trauma, addictions, couples counseling, and sexuality (kink/BDSM/sex work), her approach to therapy is eclectic, drawing on a variety of evidenced based practices. Nat serves the othered/isolated; supports self acceptance, connection, and community; and believes in individuals' innate power and resilience.
Natalie (Nat) Day, LCSW graduated from Boise State University with a Masters in Social Work in 2018. Over the last decade she's worked in residential treatment, on-campus college counseling, substance abuse treatment, inpatient psychiatric care, and community mental health. Specializing in the treatment of trauma, addictions, couples counseling, and sexuality (kink/BDSM/sex work), her approach to therapy is eclectic, drawing on a variety of evidenced based practices. Nat serves the othered/isolated; supports self acceptance, connection, and community; and believes in individuals' innate power and resilience.
![Photo of Th Accepting New Patients-No Waiting List!, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ac4775ac-dd5e-4405-8d8b-391e652743ad/1/320x400.jpeg)
Th Accepting New Patients-No Waiting List!
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Clackamas, OR 97015
My Practice Is Available For New Clients Immediately for Therapy and Medication Management! The seasons have changed and you might be feeling it. Have you noticed that you might be or are struggling with your mental health? You can choose to not be alone in your adventure of strengthening yourself. I can be your guide and help you through these rough times. If you feel that the pandemic has been rough to go through, you're not alone and you're not without support. I enjoy offering my services to see my clients grow and become unique strong individuals. Don't be surprised if you find yourself recovering fast.
My Practice Is Available For New Clients Immediately for Therapy and Medication Management! The seasons have changed and you might be feeling it. Have you noticed that you might be or are struggling with your mental health? You can choose to not be alone in your adventure of strengthening yourself. I can be your guide and help you through these rough times. If you feel that the pandemic has been rough to go through, you're not alone and you're not without support. I enjoy offering my services to see my clients grow and become unique strong individuals. Don't be surprised if you find yourself recovering fast.
![Photo of Theresa Graham, MA, LPC, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d302bdf9-8940-44b9-a2b9-341d3c006969/3/320x400.jpeg)
Theresa Graham
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clackamas, OR 97015 (Online Only)
I am currently Accepting New Clients, including OHP. I offer a collaborative compassionate mind-body approach to healing and to reaching personal goals. I specialize in EMDR and Somatic Psychotherapy, mixed with Cognitive Behavioral interventions. I believe healing involves both mind and body as many symptoms of stress, anxiety, trauma and more are experienced in Both mind and body.
I am currently Accepting New Clients, including OHP. I offer a collaborative compassionate mind-body approach to healing and to reaching personal goals. I specialize in EMDR and Somatic Psychotherapy, mixed with Cognitive Behavioral interventions. I believe healing involves both mind and body as many symptoms of stress, anxiety, trauma and more are experienced in Both mind and body.
![Photo of Jessica Monahan, FNP-BC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e59455f0-b8c4-49f9-a5c5-2c65bcc0dbb9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or struggling with depression? Do you have a hard time managing stress or finding balance in your life? If so, you may be an ideal client for my practice. I work with individuals who are looking to improve their mental health and overall well-being. My clients are often seeking a safe and non-judgmental space to explore their emotions, gain insight into their behaviors, and learn new coping skills. They may be experiencing challenges related to relationships, work, or other areas of their lives, and they are motivated to make positive changes.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or struggling with depression? Do you have a hard time managing stress or finding balance in your life? If so, you may be an ideal client for my practice. I work with individuals who are looking to improve their mental health and overall well-being. My clients are often seeking a safe and non-judgmental space to explore their emotions, gain insight into their behaviors, and learn new coping skills. They may be experiencing challenges related to relationships, work, or other areas of their lives, and they are motivated to make positive changes.
![Photo of Margaret Warren - Kind Therapy Group- Therapist in Portland , PsyD, LCSW, LPC, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e7444e02-3249-475e-9036-abd00d5b3543/2/320x400.png)
Kind Therapy Group- Therapist in Portland
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LCSW, LPC
Verified Verified
Clackamas, OR 97015
Kind Therapy Group can help you find a therapist who is just right for you or your family. Our qualified and compassionate counselors provide outstanding mental health services in-person and online across the entire Greater Portland Area. For an appointment, please call 503-563-8668 to speak with our receptionist M-F 8:30am-5pm. Alternatively, our website allows you to self-schedule with one of our multi-award-winning therapists 24/7. Our network includes licensed psychologists, clinical social workers, professional counselors, marriage and family therapists, couples counselors, and certified alcohol and drug counselors.
Kind Therapy Group can help you find a therapist who is just right for you or your family. Our qualified and compassionate counselors provide outstanding mental health services in-person and online across the entire Greater Portland Area. For an appointment, please call 503-563-8668 to speak with our receptionist M-F 8:30am-5pm. Alternatively, our website allows you to self-schedule with one of our multi-award-winning therapists 24/7. Our network includes licensed psychologists, clinical social workers, professional counselors, marriage and family therapists, couples counselors, and certified alcohol and drug counselors.
See more therapy options for Happy Valley
Nearby Bipolar Disorder Therapists Searches for Happy Valley
- Beaverton
- Clackamas
- Gladstone
- Gresham
- Lake Oswego
- Milwaukie
- Oregon City
- Portland
- Tigard
- Troutdale
- Tualatin
- West Linn
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.