Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Tigard, OR

Photo of Ammon Veil, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ammon Veil
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tigard, OR 97223  (Online Only)
I help empower individuals for their unique needs such as anxiety, depression, bipolar, trauma, and relationship challenges.
Focusing on the individualized needs of each person, I strive to provide an environment where clients feel validated, safe, and able to express themselves freely. I believe one of the most important aspects of therapy is the therapeutic relationship. This unique dynamic can assist clients to feel fulfilled and successful in their mental health journey. I use a collaborative approach and a variety of techniques to help us find direction for the therapeutic process.
I help empower individuals for their unique needs such as anxiety, depression, bipolar, trauma, and relationship challenges.
Focusing on the individualized needs of each person, I strive to provide an environment where clients feel validated, safe, and able to express themselves freely. I believe one of the most important aspects of therapy is the therapeutic relationship. This unique dynamic can assist clients to feel fulfilled and successful in their mental health journey. I use a collaborative approach and a variety of techniques to help us find direction for the therapeutic process.
(971) 999-3317 View (971) 999-3317
Photo of Pamela Self, LCSW, CADCI, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Pamela Self
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADCI
Verified Verified
Tigard, OR 97223
Waitlist for new clients
I work with a variety of unique and extraordinary adults experiencing mental health challenges, including: Trauma/PTSD, Psychosis/Schizophrenia, Bipolar disorder, sexual abuse, first responders, aging, anxiety, anger management, attachment issues, behavioral issues, cognitive challenges, depression, domestic abuse, suicidal ideation, and self-harm.
In my experience as a mental health therapist, I have had the honor and privilege to be a part of a person’s life who is struggling with mental health. At a young age, I always had an interest and curiosity in the people I encountered in my life, and this continues to hold true to this day. I am continually amazed and inspired by the courage and resiliency of people. We are all in this beautiful life together and sometimes we just need additional support to help us navigate our complicated world. I am a “think outside the box” kind of therapist and will build treatment plans based upon your needs and what works for you.
I work with a variety of unique and extraordinary adults experiencing mental health challenges, including: Trauma/PTSD, Psychosis/Schizophrenia, Bipolar disorder, sexual abuse, first responders, aging, anxiety, anger management, attachment issues, behavioral issues, cognitive challenges, depression, domestic abuse, suicidal ideation, and self-harm.
In my experience as a mental health therapist, I have had the honor and privilege to be a part of a person’s life who is struggling with mental health. At a young age, I always had an interest and curiosity in the people I encountered in my life, and this continues to hold true to this day. I am continually amazed and inspired by the courage and resiliency of people. We are all in this beautiful life together and sometimes we just need additional support to help us navigate our complicated world. I am a “think outside the box” kind of therapist and will build treatment plans based upon your needs and what works for you.
(503) 852-2820 View (503) 852-2820
Photo of Maribelle Ortiz, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maribelle Ortiz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tigard, OR 97223
I offer tailored individual therapy to navigate significant life transitions, alleviate anxiety, and manage depression. With a focus on mental health conditions such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, I provide specialized expertise in grief counseling. Additionally, I also provide couples therapy using the Gottman Method.
I offer tailored individual therapy to navigate significant life transitions, alleviate anxiety, and manage depression. With a focus on mental health conditions such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, I provide specialized expertise in grief counseling. Additionally, I also provide couples therapy using the Gottman Method.
(503) 461-9245 View (503) 461-9245
Photo of Dr. Dianna Harris (Accepting New Clients), PsyD, PMHNP, Psychologist
Dr. Dianna Harris (Accepting New Clients)
Psychologist, PsyD, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Tigard, OR 97224
I have successfully helped people reduce anxiety and depression that has only partially been helped through therapy by adding psychiatric medication that is targeted to treat worry, panic, OCD, depression and bipolar symptoms.
Accepting NEW Clients (ages 18-65) as of 7/26/24 for Medication Management (I am not taking clients for therapy). Appointments are available in 2 weeks. Complete the Patient Inquiry Form on my website. You will receive a response the same or next day. My practice is primarily composed of adults struggling with anxiety and depression. I find that people reach out to treatment when excessive worry, low motivation, and negative thinking can lead to feeling less confident in their work, behind on tasks at home, and impacting their relationships. I don't treat ADHD and I don't prescribe controlled substances, such as Xanax for anxiety.
I have successfully helped people reduce anxiety and depression that has only partially been helped through therapy by adding psychiatric medication that is targeted to treat worry, panic, OCD, depression and bipolar symptoms.
Accepting NEW Clients (ages 18-65) as of 7/26/24 for Medication Management (I am not taking clients for therapy). Appointments are available in 2 weeks. Complete the Patient Inquiry Form on my website. You will receive a response the same or next day. My practice is primarily composed of adults struggling with anxiety and depression. I find that people reach out to treatment when excessive worry, low motivation, and negative thinking can lead to feeling less confident in their work, behind on tasks at home, and impacting their relationships. I don't treat ADHD and I don't prescribe controlled substances, such as Xanax for anxiety.
(971) 606-4749 View (971) 606-4749
Photo of Dr. Dianna Harris (Accepting New Clients), PsyD, PMHNP, Psychologist
Dr. Dianna Harris (Accepting New Clients)
Psychologist, PsyD, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Tigard, OR 97223
I have successfully helped people reduce anxiety and depression that has only partially been helped through therapy by adding psychiatric medication that is targeted to treat worry, panic, OCD, depression and bipolar symptoms.
Accepting NEW Clients (ages 18-65) as of 7/26/24 for Medication Management (I am not taking clients for therapy). Appointments are available in 2 weeks. Complete the Patient Inquiry Form on my website. You will receive a response the same or next day. My practice is primarily composed of adults struggling with anxiety and depression. I find that people reach out to treatment when excessive worry, low motivation, and negative thinking can lead to feeling less confident in their work, behind on tasks at home, and impacting their relationships. I don't treat ADHD and I don't prescribe controlled substances, such as Xanax for anxiety.
I have successfully helped people reduce anxiety and depression that has only partially been helped through therapy by adding psychiatric medication that is targeted to treat worry, panic, OCD, depression and bipolar symptoms.
Accepting NEW Clients (ages 18-65) as of 7/26/24 for Medication Management (I am not taking clients for therapy). Appointments are available in 2 weeks. Complete the Patient Inquiry Form on my website. You will receive a response the same or next day. My practice is primarily composed of adults struggling with anxiety and depression. I find that people reach out to treatment when excessive worry, low motivation, and negative thinking can lead to feeling less confident in their work, behind on tasks at home, and impacting their relationships. I don't treat ADHD and I don't prescribe controlled substances, such as Xanax for anxiety.
(971) 265-6721 View (971) 265-6721
Photo of Xiomara Raquel Sanchez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Xiomara Raquel Sanchez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tigard, OR 97223
Waitlist for new clients
I am a bilingual (English/Spanish) and bi-cultural licensed clinical social worker in Tigard, Oregon. I have many years of experience working with children and families. My areas of expertise include: sexual abuse cases, early childhood mental health, working with children and families exposed to traumatic events and family therapy. I like to facilitate groups for trauma survivors and also to work with adult survivors of sexual abuse. I particularly enjoy working with Latino families. I am very interested in reunification cases particularly working with children and families involved in the child welfare system.
I am a bilingual (English/Spanish) and bi-cultural licensed clinical social worker in Tigard, Oregon. I have many years of experience working with children and families. My areas of expertise include: sexual abuse cases, early childhood mental health, working with children and families exposed to traumatic events and family therapy. I like to facilitate groups for trauma survivors and also to work with adult survivors of sexual abuse. I particularly enjoy working with Latino families. I am very interested in reunification cases particularly working with children and families involved in the child welfare system.
(786) 766-7310 View (786) 766-7310
Photo of Danielle Gerding, MA, QMHP
Danielle Gerding
Professional Counselor Associate, MA, QMHP
Verified Verified
Tigard, OR 97223
I serve children, adolescents, and young adults who have a desire for understanding what is happening within them and discovering ways to improve their mental well-being as they develop. I strive to provide a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere where crying is accepted and laughter is encouraged. I deeply value getting to know an individual's true self and embracing the unique ways they see the world. My goal is to guide clients in learning skills and discovering their own personal strengths so that they can find confidence in their ability to heal and work through struggles on their own after counseling is complete.
I serve children, adolescents, and young adults who have a desire for understanding what is happening within them and discovering ways to improve their mental well-being as they develop. I strive to provide a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere where crying is accepted and laughter is encouraged. I deeply value getting to know an individual's true self and embracing the unique ways they see the world. My goal is to guide clients in learning skills and discovering their own personal strengths so that they can find confidence in their ability to heal and work through struggles on their own after counseling is complete.
(971) 259-7790 View (971) 259-7790
Photo of Brandi Cole, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brandi Cole
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tigard, OR 97223
Feeling Stressed? Overwhelmed? Need someone to talk to? Having difficulties with a partner? Or worried about your child? Please call or email for an appointment. I would really like to hear from you! Life situations and changes can bring a lot of stress. I bring calmness to sessions, while focusing on clients’ strengths. In the beginning, I will develop clear goals around behaviors or thoughts the client(s) wants to change, and a potential time frame for services. I use multiple modalities to connect with clients and accomplish those goals.
Feeling Stressed? Overwhelmed? Need someone to talk to? Having difficulties with a partner? Or worried about your child? Please call or email for an appointment. I would really like to hear from you! Life situations and changes can bring a lot of stress. I bring calmness to sessions, while focusing on clients’ strengths. In the beginning, I will develop clear goals around behaviors or thoughts the client(s) wants to change, and a potential time frame for services. I use multiple modalities to connect with clients and accomplish those goals.
(503) 461-2359 View (503) 461-2359
Photo of Angelie Karabatsos, LPC, NCC, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Angelie Karabatsos
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tigard, OR 97223
Does life feel overwhelming like being trapped in a never-ending maze? Having these feelings are perfectly normal. Talking through the life concerns or worries can help but it’s hard to share deep personal concerns with family or friends. The pressure of family, work, or past trauma's can cause anxiety, stress, even depression. Whether dealing with a difficult relationship, career, or life challenges talking with a trained professional, who is caring and compassionate can help you find freedom and start enjoying life. Think about how great it would be living life instead of just making it through each day.
Does life feel overwhelming like being trapped in a never-ending maze? Having these feelings are perfectly normal. Talking through the life concerns or worries can help but it’s hard to share deep personal concerns with family or friends. The pressure of family, work, or past trauma's can cause anxiety, stress, even depression. Whether dealing with a difficult relationship, career, or life challenges talking with a trained professional, who is caring and compassionate can help you find freedom and start enjoying life. Think about how great it would be living life instead of just making it through each day.
(503) 564-1858 View (503) 564-1858
Photo of Bradley E Sigafoose, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bradley E Sigafoose
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tigard, OR 97223
My hope for therapy, and our time together, is that you can start to become more aware of your thoughts, emotions, behaviors and beliefs. By doing this you will start the process of empowering yourself towards a whole healthy person. We will spend time together examining each of these categories in a way that will give you a new outlook on life. I also believe balance in life is needed, and often times we lose this balance. Together we can explore ways to regain sense of self and establish balance.
My hope for therapy, and our time together, is that you can start to become more aware of your thoughts, emotions, behaviors and beliefs. By doing this you will start the process of empowering yourself towards a whole healthy person. We will spend time together examining each of these categories in a way that will give you a new outlook on life. I also believe balance in life is needed, and often times we lose this balance. Together we can explore ways to regain sense of self and establish balance.
(971) 351-1376 View (971) 351-1376
Photo of Brett Johnson - Ally Counseling, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Brett Johnson - Ally Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Tigard, OR 97223
Brett works at Ally Counseling. His caseload is full, but he does have openings come up periodically. If Brett is not available, we will match you with another clinician or add you to his waitlist. About this clinician: Brett is a Licensed Marriage and Family who has a passion for helping teens and adults who are struggling with new or chronic issues that are preventing them from achieving their full potential in life, academics, relationships, or careers. Brett enjoys partnering with his clients to help them discover or get back on track with the things that make them feel motivated, happy, and fulfilled in life.
Brett works at Ally Counseling. His caseload is full, but he does have openings come up periodically. If Brett is not available, we will match you with another clinician or add you to his waitlist. About this clinician: Brett is a Licensed Marriage and Family who has a passion for helping teens and adults who are struggling with new or chronic issues that are preventing them from achieving their full potential in life, academics, relationships, or careers. Brett enjoys partnering with his clients to help them discover or get back on track with the things that make them feel motivated, happy, and fulfilled in life.
(503) 855-6209 View (503) 855-6209
Photo of Wanda Tucker, MA, LPC, LMT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Wanda Tucker
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMT
Verified Verified
Tigard, OR 97223  (Online Only)
Whatever you're facing, I'll help: Depression, anxiety, grief, pain, sleep problems, health issues, relationship struggles, trauma, stress, or desire for personal growth. Just be yourself. I provide safety and acceptance to explore difficult situations, thoughts, and emotions. I interact. I offer information and insights. I listen intently. People say I get to the heart of the matter quickly and concisely. You'll learn skills to better manage life. Couples often need a third party to see issues and change what isn't working. If you're willing to take a new look, I'll help figure out how to make the relationship work.
Whatever you're facing, I'll help: Depression, anxiety, grief, pain, sleep problems, health issues, relationship struggles, trauma, stress, or desire for personal growth. Just be yourself. I provide safety and acceptance to explore difficult situations, thoughts, and emotions. I interact. I offer information and insights. I listen intently. People say I get to the heart of the matter quickly and concisely. You'll learn skills to better manage life. Couples often need a third party to see issues and change what isn't working. If you're willing to take a new look, I'll help figure out how to make the relationship work.
(503) 293-0888 View (503) 293-0888
Photo of Susan Robens, MEd, MA
Susan Robens
Professional Counselor Associate, MEd, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tigard, OR 97224
Summer is here! Life is full of transitions and can tug at our strings in search for identity and times of uncertainty that can increase anxiety, depression, and trigger previous trauma. Children can feel changes and try to adapt without the words to express how they feel that can create additional tension. Put this together, it can become a cesspool of emotions for both the parent(s) and child. My personal experience of living abroad for 20 years and raising 5 children, helped me to understand transitions and their complexities.I work with both children and adults, parenting for relief.
Summer is here! Life is full of transitions and can tug at our strings in search for identity and times of uncertainty that can increase anxiety, depression, and trigger previous trauma. Children can feel changes and try to adapt without the words to express how they feel that can create additional tension. Put this together, it can become a cesspool of emotions for both the parent(s) and child. My personal experience of living abroad for 20 years and raising 5 children, helped me to understand transitions and their complexities.I work with both children and adults, parenting for relief.
(971) 290-1540 View (971) 290-1540
Photo of David S Corse - David Corse, LPC: Psychotherapy., LPC, CADCIII, CGACII, Licensed Professional Counselor
David Corse, LPC: Psychotherapy.
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CADCIII, CGACII
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Tigard, OR 97223
Challenges we encounter in our lives are indicators of being "stuck" in our personal and relational growth. Psychotherapy can help us get "unstuck".... My approach is process and relationally oriented - "solutions" can come from changing our relationships with ourselves and others in our lives, and restructuring ourselves as we work with our life challenges. Depression, anxiety, trauma, men's issues, relationship strain, addictions -substances/alcohol, gambling, shopping, pornography, gaming. My experience can be helpful - psychotherapist, crisis worker, clinical supervisor, administrator, manager, policy analyst and educator.
Challenges we encounter in our lives are indicators of being "stuck" in our personal and relational growth. Psychotherapy can help us get "unstuck".... My approach is process and relationally oriented - "solutions" can come from changing our relationships with ourselves and others in our lives, and restructuring ourselves as we work with our life challenges. Depression, anxiety, trauma, men's issues, relationship strain, addictions -substances/alcohol, gambling, shopping, pornography, gaming. My experience can be helpful - psychotherapist, crisis worker, clinical supervisor, administrator, manager, policy analyst and educator.
(503) 451-6603 View (503) 451-6603
Photo of Adetunji O Babawale - Imperial Behavioral Health & Consulting LLC , LMSW, CSWA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Imperial Behavioral Health & Consulting LLC
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMSW, CSWA
Verified Verified
Tigard, OR 97223
I believe therapy is a partnership between the therapist and the client. Therefore, it is important for me to exercise collaborative problem solving as an approach to build and form a positive therapeutic relationship and alliance with the individuals that I serve. I am trained in using several modalities and treatment approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused treatment, Motivational interviewing, Collaborative Problem Solving, and Person-Centered Therapy.
I believe therapy is a partnership between the therapist and the client. Therefore, it is important for me to exercise collaborative problem solving as an approach to build and form a positive therapeutic relationship and alliance with the individuals that I serve. I am trained in using several modalities and treatment approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused treatment, Motivational interviewing, Collaborative Problem Solving, and Person-Centered Therapy.
(503) 843-8159 View (503) 843-8159
Photo of Kelle DeBruin - Kelle DeBruin Counseling, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kelle DeBruin Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tigard, OR 97223
Life transitions bring new opportunities for personal growth, communication development, and emotional connectedness. With couples & families, our approach is to deepen the bond by focusing more effective communication while understanding the needs of the relationship, Individual therapy centers from life experiences of resilience & strength, redefinition of self, challenges around family history, or a recognition of new life boundaries. As we work with younger clients, we utilize interventions in our play therapy room to provide an environment open and welcoming to the needs of everyone.
Life transitions bring new opportunities for personal growth, communication development, and emotional connectedness. With couples & families, our approach is to deepen the bond by focusing more effective communication while understanding the needs of the relationship, Individual therapy centers from life experiences of resilience & strength, redefinition of self, challenges around family history, or a recognition of new life boundaries. As we work with younger clients, we utilize interventions in our play therapy room to provide an environment open and welcoming to the needs of everyone.
(971) 803-5900 View (971) 803-5900
Photo of Danielle Thompson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Danielle Thompson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Tigard, OR 97224
Life can be difficult, unfair and at times overwhelming. I work with clients to improve their coping skills, increase their emotional well being, and improve their relationships. I work with adults, adolescents, families and couples in individual and family sessions.
Life can be difficult, unfair and at times overwhelming. I work with clients to improve their coping skills, increase their emotional well being, and improve their relationships. I work with adults, adolescents, families and couples in individual and family sessions.
(503) 855-6592 View (503) 855-6592
Photo of Lisa M Wurzelbacher, PhD, Psychologist
Lisa M Wurzelbacher
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Tigard, OR 97223
“Loving ourselves through the process of owning our story is the bravest thing we'll ever do." This quote by Brene Brown describes therapy well, particularly when the focus is healing from trauma. Therapy is a place to explore and embrace your story more fully, and my highest value is establishing an authentic, safe, compassionate, and accepting space where you can process what is keeping you "stuck." Whether you desire to develop skills to improve your relationships; process recent grief, divorce, childhood trauma, or cancer diagnosis; or alter core beliefs and lifelong behavior patterns; I would be honored to work with you.
“Loving ourselves through the process of owning our story is the bravest thing we'll ever do." This quote by Brene Brown describes therapy well, particularly when the focus is healing from trauma. Therapy is a place to explore and embrace your story more fully, and my highest value is establishing an authentic, safe, compassionate, and accepting space where you can process what is keeping you "stuck." Whether you desire to develop skills to improve your relationships; process recent grief, divorce, childhood trauma, or cancer diagnosis; or alter core beliefs and lifelong behavior patterns; I would be honored to work with you.
(503) 766-5519 View (503) 766-5519
Photo of Deborah Hadley, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Deborah Hadley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tigard, OR 97224  (Online Only)
Accepting New Clients. I believe each of us were designed for deep relationship and long for a sense of acceptance and belonging. So often however, we seem unable to experience authentic connection or intimacy with others. Though we reach out, we may feel unseen and unheard, eventually withdrawing, questioning our worth, and losing our ability to know and share our true self. The loneliness at times may feel overwhelming, as if there is no one to help us carry our confusion, hurts, or fears. It is in these times we may need someone with whom we can share our burdens, someone who will hear our brokenness and accept us as we are.
Accepting New Clients. I believe each of us were designed for deep relationship and long for a sense of acceptance and belonging. So often however, we seem unable to experience authentic connection or intimacy with others. Though we reach out, we may feel unseen and unheard, eventually withdrawing, questioning our worth, and losing our ability to know and share our true self. The loneliness at times may feel overwhelming, as if there is no one to help us carry our confusion, hurts, or fears. It is in these times we may need someone with whom we can share our burdens, someone who will hear our brokenness and accept us as we are.
(971) 366-2680 View (971) 366-2680
Photo of Stephanie Higgason, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Higgason
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Tigard, OR 97224  (Online Only)
I believe that everyone’s journey is unique, and that’s why my therapeutic process begins by meeting my clients where they are at. I utilize a strength-based approach, tapping into my client’s inherent strengths and resilience to empower them to navigate life’s changes. Throughout our sessions, I strive to create a safe and empathic space where active listening and mindfulness are key. By actively listening to my clients and practicing mindfulness together, we can explore their thoughts and emotions with compassion and curiosity, working towards lasting healing and growth.
I believe that everyone’s journey is unique, and that’s why my therapeutic process begins by meeting my clients where they are at. I utilize a strength-based approach, tapping into my client’s inherent strengths and resilience to empower them to navigate life’s changes. Throughout our sessions, I strive to create a safe and empathic space where active listening and mindfulness are key. By actively listening to my clients and practicing mindfulness together, we can explore their thoughts and emotions with compassion and curiosity, working towards lasting healing and growth.
(503) 894-7144 View (503) 894-7144
1
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.