Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Aspinwall, PA

Photo of Fox Chapel Consulting And Psychological Services, PhD, Psychologist
Fox Chapel Consulting And Psychological Services
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Aspinwall, PA 15215
Dr. Victor H.W. is a specialist in Clinical Psychology and can effectively treat many challenging adult and youth presentations. My approach to treatment is influenced by the scientific evidence! With children, adolescents, and adults, I draw from evidence-based treatments that have been proven to work; including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Existential Therapy in addition to traditional talk and play therapies. However, psychotherapy is both an art and science and what works best depends on the person and the problem that the individual or family is facing.
Dr. Victor H.W. is a specialist in Clinical Psychology and can effectively treat many challenging adult and youth presentations. My approach to treatment is influenced by the scientific evidence! With children, adolescents, and adults, I draw from evidence-based treatments that have been proven to work; including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Existential Therapy in addition to traditional talk and play therapies. However, psychotherapy is both an art and science and what works best depends on the person and the problem that the individual or family is facing.
(878) 203-1830 View (878) 203-1830
Photo of Rebecca Wells, MSEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rebecca Wells
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Aspinwall, PA 15215
Hi! I'm so happy that you're here! I am passionate about helping people struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction and transitional life challenges. If you want a life with less anxiety, stress, worry, or sadness, we'll work together to create attainable goals to get you where you want to be. I want to create a safe, inclusive space for you to talk about your unique challenges, and how you envision your ideal life worth living. I welcome and respect the individuality of each client's life story. My ideal client is committed to exploring their potential for growth and change in a supportive and collaborative environment.
Hi! I'm so happy that you're here! I am passionate about helping people struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction and transitional life challenges. If you want a life with less anxiety, stress, worry, or sadness, we'll work together to create attainable goals to get you where you want to be. I want to create a safe, inclusive space for you to talk about your unique challenges, and how you envision your ideal life worth living. I welcome and respect the individuality of each client's life story. My ideal client is committed to exploring their potential for growth and change in a supportive and collaborative environment.
(412) 561-9419 View (412) 561-9419
Melissa Galiotto EMDR Cert.
LPC, NCC, EMDR , Cert
Verified Verified
Aspinwall, PA 15215
I welcome working with anyone interested in the therapy process regardless of their issues or goals. There are many options for coping skills such as from EMDR/IFS (emdria certified); Gestalt, Existential, DBT, CBT and Mindfulness. Past/ current clients have worked through generational trauma, disordered eating, sexual assault, family and/ or marital concerns, trauma, depression and anxiety, attention deficit, career and direction of life concerns. It is common to struggle with the first step of reaching out to a provider.. typically people feel relief once they start talking to and then selecting a provider.
I welcome working with anyone interested in the therapy process regardless of their issues or goals. There are many options for coping skills such as from EMDR/IFS (emdria certified); Gestalt, Existential, DBT, CBT and Mindfulness. Past/ current clients have worked through generational trauma, disordered eating, sexual assault, family and/ or marital concerns, trauma, depression and anxiety, attention deficit, career and direction of life concerns. It is common to struggle with the first step of reaching out to a provider.. typically people feel relief once they start talking to and then selecting a provider.
(412) 888-0452 View (412) 888-0452
Photo of Jamie C. Rivers, MSCP, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jamie C. Rivers
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSCP, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Aspinwall, PA 15215
Waitlist for new clients
I help people navigate through complex medical and psychological conditions. Often times a diagnosis of cancer, diabetes, infertility, chronic pain/fatigue leaves us confused, frustrated and powerless. Medical health setbacks can impact our mental health. Conditions that may occur or worsen include: depression, anxiety, substance dependency, interpersonal conflict and relationship issues. This is not always truth. Many find their voice, their personal strength, and their love and compassion of self and others deepen.
I help people navigate through complex medical and psychological conditions. Often times a diagnosis of cancer, diabetes, infertility, chronic pain/fatigue leaves us confused, frustrated and powerless. Medical health setbacks can impact our mental health. Conditions that may occur or worsen include: depression, anxiety, substance dependency, interpersonal conflict and relationship issues. This is not always truth. Many find their voice, their personal strength, and their love and compassion of self and others deepen.
(412) 426-3655 View (412) 426-3655
Photo of Karen J Stickel - Karen J Stickel, LCSW, BCD, LCSW, BCD, FAPA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karen J Stickel, LCSW, BCD
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD, FAPA
Verified Verified
Aspinwall, PA 15215
We all deal with changes. Change is inevitable in our lives and you can either manage change and shape it to your advantage, or let those changes manage and shape you. We have the abilities to cope with the changes in our lives. Sometimes we don't realize that we can and feel overwhelmed in dealing with stress. At other times we find ourselves in unexpected or extreme situations for which our normal coping skills are inadequate. Whatever the sources of your stress, the result could be anxious or depressed moods, panic attacks and more.
We all deal with changes. Change is inevitable in our lives and you can either manage change and shape it to your advantage, or let those changes manage and shape you. We have the abilities to cope with the changes in our lives. Sometimes we don't realize that we can and feel overwhelmed in dealing with stress. At other times we find ourselves in unexpected or extreme situations for which our normal coping skills are inadequate. Whatever the sources of your stress, the result could be anxious or depressed moods, panic attacks and more.
(412) 214-8785 View (412) 214-8785
Photo of Daniel Rhodes, PhD, LPC, NCC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Daniel Rhodes
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC, ACS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Aspinwall, PA 15215
Thanks for clicking! Feeling like you're not growing? Have you hit a snag or is there a barrier that is keeping you from meeting your goals? I'd love to help! I would like to help you reach the longer-lasting effects that are the consequences of an insight-based and action-oriented approach to counseling. Let's figure out what happened, how it's affecting you, and what we can do together to help you overcome it, learn from it, and grow.
Thanks for clicking! Feeling like you're not growing? Have you hit a snag or is there a barrier that is keeping you from meeting your goals? I'd love to help! I would like to help you reach the longer-lasting effects that are the consequences of an insight-based and action-oriented approach to counseling. Let's figure out what happened, how it's affecting you, and what we can do together to help you overcome it, learn from it, and grow.
(878) 206-1061 View (878) 206-1061
Photo of Joy B Krumenacker, PsyD, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Joy B Krumenacker
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Aspinwall, PA 15215
Not accepting new clients
Psychotherapy is a unique journey; a journey that I am committed to taking with you. My interests include working with interpersonal/relational issues as well as concerns related to identity, personality, sex/sexuality, anxiety, and trauma. I practice from a psychodynamic approach, personalized to meet the needs of each client. Our sessions together will assist you in developing a greater understanding of self and your interactions with others. I am currently offering individual sessions as well as supervision to pre-licensed professionals.
Psychotherapy is a unique journey; a journey that I am committed to taking with you. My interests include working with interpersonal/relational issues as well as concerns related to identity, personality, sex/sexuality, anxiety, and trauma. I practice from a psychodynamic approach, personalized to meet the needs of each client. Our sessions together will assist you in developing a greater understanding of self and your interactions with others. I am currently offering individual sessions as well as supervision to pre-licensed professionals.
(412) 927-0795 View (412) 927-0795
Photo of Kristen Waldsmith, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kristen Waldsmith
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Aspinwall, PA 15215
Not accepting new clients
Are you looking to improve you or your child's mood, lifestyle or relationships? Have you or someone you love turned to substances as a way to cope with life? The pressures of todays society effect those of all ages and their families. Therapy is an avenue to assist in working through life's imperfections and I would like to make it a positive experience for you.
Are you looking to improve you or your child's mood, lifestyle or relationships? Have you or someone you love turned to substances as a way to cope with life? The pressures of todays society effect those of all ages and their families. Therapy is an avenue to assist in working through life's imperfections and I would like to make it a positive experience for you.
(724) 246-6524 View (724) 246-6524

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Steven S Carter, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Steven S Carter
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
My name is Dr. Steven S. Carter. I am a research and clinical psychologist whose career began in The Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. My work involved the study of Anxiety, Depression and Bipolar Disorder. I have been trained in Interpersonal, Cognitive and Behavioral therapies. I am currently in private practice. I offer individual, couples and family therapy. Recently, I have been working with families to help them understand family members who do have a mood disorder. My approach is to listen and learn from you. I think this is the best way to build a trusting relationship between us.
My name is Dr. Steven S. Carter. I am a research and clinical psychologist whose career began in The Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. My work involved the study of Anxiety, Depression and Bipolar Disorder. I have been trained in Interpersonal, Cognitive and Behavioral therapies. I am currently in private practice. I offer individual, couples and family therapy. Recently, I have been working with families to help them understand family members who do have a mood disorder. My approach is to listen and learn from you. I think this is the best way to build a trusting relationship between us.
(412) 368-0482 View (412) 368-0482
Photo of Megan Herman, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Megan Herman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15238
I have been working in mental health since 2011, with significant experience supervising a multi-disciplinary mental health community treatment team serving adults with bipolar and psychosis related disorders as well as offering support to families.
Currently scheduling NEW clients for FALL 2024. Hi! My name is Megan, and I am a 40-something working mom of two. I have been a licensed psychotherapist since 2014 and am passionate about helping others live their lives in fulfilling and meaningful ways, based on their personal values and needs. I deeply believe in finding your authentic, true self and feeling good in your own skin. Sometimes therapy can help with solving a problem, making change or simply gaining insight into the self. Treatment goals are client driven and success is measured by you.
I have been working in mental health since 2011, with significant experience supervising a multi-disciplinary mental health community treatment team serving adults with bipolar and psychosis related disorders as well as offering support to families.
Currently scheduling NEW clients for FALL 2024. Hi! My name is Megan, and I am a 40-something working mom of two. I have been a licensed psychotherapist since 2014 and am passionate about helping others live their lives in fulfilling and meaningful ways, based on their personal values and needs. I deeply believe in finding your authentic, true self and feeling good in your own skin. Sometimes therapy can help with solving a problem, making change or simply gaining insight into the self. Treatment goals are client driven and success is measured by you.
(412) 910-2396 View (412) 910-2396
Photo of James W Ellermeyer, MA, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
James W Ellermeyer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
Using a mindfulness-based cognitive approach, I help people deal with self-concept, self-esteem, identity formation and develop the ability to make conscious choices. I deal with bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, anxiety, and depression. I have been successful with my own full impact mindfulness technique in dealing with disassociation and psychosis, PTSD and trauma.
Using a mindfulness-based cognitive approach, I help people deal with self-concept, self-esteem, identity formation and develop the ability to make conscious choices. I deal with bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, anxiety, and depression. I have been successful with my own full impact mindfulness technique in dealing with disassociation and psychosis, PTSD and trauma.
(412) 419-0972 View (412) 419-0972
Photo of Jannette Travali, MSCP, MPH, MS, NCC/LPC, RDN/LDN, CEDS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jannette Travali
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSCP, MPH, MS, NCC/LPC, RDN/LDN, CEDS
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15238
DISORDERED EATING (Sprectur: Anorexia, Bulimia, Binge Eating, AFRID, PICA, Body Image Distortion, Orthorexia) SAFETY/IDENTITY/RELATIONSHIPS (PTSD, Trauma/Acute Abuse, Bullying, Self-Harm, Suicidality, Grief, LGBTQIA+) MOOD COMPONENTS (Anxiety, OCD, Depression, Bipolar) MEDICAL LAYERS (Food Allergies/Autoimmune/Metabolic) CORE GROUNDING (Spiritual &/or Faith).
I am a Psychotherapist, Nutrition Therapist & Exercise Physiologist. With the Client/Therapist Relationship at CORE, I provide Individualized, Integrative Care: Eating Disorders, Trauma, Mood, Relationships, Transitions -acknowledging & encouraging growth of diverse values &/or needs, I use an Eclectic Therapeutic Approach –including Person-Centered, Mindfulness, Expressive (art, music, movement, writing), Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), CBT, RO-DBT, Existential, Narrative, Gestalt, Motivational Interviewing, Positive Psychology, Nutrition Therapy –Intuitive Eating/HAES (Health at Any Size) & Medical Nutrition Therapy.
DISORDERED EATING (Sprectur: Anorexia, Bulimia, Binge Eating, AFRID, PICA, Body Image Distortion, Orthorexia) SAFETY/IDENTITY/RELATIONSHIPS (PTSD, Trauma/Acute Abuse, Bullying, Self-Harm, Suicidality, Grief, LGBTQIA+) MOOD COMPONENTS (Anxiety, OCD, Depression, Bipolar) MEDICAL LAYERS (Food Allergies/Autoimmune/Metabolic) CORE GROUNDING (Spiritual &/or Faith).
I am a Psychotherapist, Nutrition Therapist & Exercise Physiologist. With the Client/Therapist Relationship at CORE, I provide Individualized, Integrative Care: Eating Disorders, Trauma, Mood, Relationships, Transitions -acknowledging & encouraging growth of diverse values &/or needs, I use an Eclectic Therapeutic Approach –including Person-Centered, Mindfulness, Expressive (art, music, movement, writing), Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), CBT, RO-DBT, Existential, Narrative, Gestalt, Motivational Interviewing, Positive Psychology, Nutrition Therapy –Intuitive Eating/HAES (Health at Any Size) & Medical Nutrition Therapy.
(724) 320-1816 View (724) 320-1816
Photo of Jon Weingarden, PsyD, Psychologist
Jon Weingarden
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15215
My practice serves the general population and I have specialized experience with bipolar disorder and eating disorders.
I am a Pittsburgher and I'm proud to practice psychology in my home community. My goal is to see each client as a person first, and provide individualized healthcare. I see therapy as collaborative, and including both skill-building and self-exploration. In terms of self-exploration, I see the client as the expert in their own life, while a therapist is attuned to noticing themes or patterns that the client would have otherwise missed or avoided.
My practice serves the general population and I have specialized experience with bipolar disorder and eating disorders.
I am a Pittsburgher and I'm proud to practice psychology in my home community. My goal is to see each client as a person first, and provide individualized healthcare. I see therapy as collaborative, and including both skill-building and self-exploration. In terms of self-exploration, I see the client as the expert in their own life, while a therapist is attuned to noticing themes or patterns that the client would have otherwise missed or avoided.
(412) 207-3477 View (412) 207-3477
Photo of Tammie Barkus, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tammie Barkus
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in substance abuse, autism spectrum disorders, ADHD, oppositional defiant disorder, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, bipolar and dual-diagnosis.
I am a licensed clinical social worker and certified drug and alcohol counselor. I have over 10 years experience in therapy for children, adolescents, adults, couples and families.
I specialize in substance abuse, autism spectrum disorders, ADHD, oppositional defiant disorder, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, bipolar and dual-diagnosis.
I am a licensed clinical social worker and certified drug and alcohol counselor. I have over 10 years experience in therapy for children, adolescents, adults, couples and families.
(412) 301-9599 View (412) 301-9599
Photo of Ashley Mudrinich, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ashley Mudrinich
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15206  (Online Only)
My expertise also extends to how to manage diagnosed disorders such as PTSD and bipolar disorder.
Congratulations on taking the first step towards improving your mental health. It is often not easy navigating the stages of finding a therapist, and I applaud you for finding the strength to make the leap. I am here to make that leap as comfortable as possible, in a way that is most suitable to your needs. I am a person-centered, strength-based, and humanistic therapist. I look to help solidify what is good in a person and identify what can be modified in order to make someone feel more whole. My approach is warm, non-judgmental and genuine. Feel free to visit www.ashleys-counseling.com for more information.
My expertise also extends to how to manage diagnosed disorders such as PTSD and bipolar disorder.
Congratulations on taking the first step towards improving your mental health. It is often not easy navigating the stages of finding a therapist, and I applaud you for finding the strength to make the leap. I am here to make that leap as comfortable as possible, in a way that is most suitable to your needs. I am a person-centered, strength-based, and humanistic therapist. I look to help solidify what is good in a person and identify what can be modified in order to make someone feel more whole. My approach is warm, non-judgmental and genuine. Feel free to visit www.ashleys-counseling.com for more information.
(412) 534-5661 View (412) 534-5661
Photo of Luisa Bonavita, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Luisa Bonavita
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15238
I am a licensed clinical social worker with many years of practice experience. My background includes working with individuals, couples, and families affected by depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, stress, relationship conflicts, drug and alcohol problems, and other mental health issues. I have a particular interest in women's mental health issues including but not limited to, perinatal and postpartum mental health concerns.
I am a licensed clinical social worker with many years of practice experience. My background includes working with individuals, couples, and families affected by depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, stress, relationship conflicts, drug and alcohol problems, and other mental health issues. I have a particular interest in women's mental health issues including but not limited to, perinatal and postpartum mental health concerns.
(412) 417-9163 View (412) 417-9163
Photo of Marcus Flournoy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marcus Flournoy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
I was brought up in the helping tradition of the community where I was taught to give back to others. I have twenty years of experience in the mental health and drug and alcohol field. I have worked with individuals from all walks of life: socially, culturally, racially, economically, gender wise, and different sexual orientations and religions. I have conducted assessments, evaluations, individual therapy, family therapy and couple's therapy. I have treated individuals with a variety of conditions such as trauma, stress, depression including bipolar, anxiety, anger management problems, psychosis and addiction.
I was brought up in the helping tradition of the community where I was taught to give back to others. I have twenty years of experience in the mental health and drug and alcohol field. I have worked with individuals from all walks of life: socially, culturally, racially, economically, gender wise, and different sexual orientations and religions. I have conducted assessments, evaluations, individual therapy, family therapy and couple's therapy. I have treated individuals with a variety of conditions such as trauma, stress, depression including bipolar, anxiety, anger management problems, psychosis and addiction.
(878) 220-3027 View (878) 220-3027
Photo of Mary C Ringgold, MS
Mary C Ringgold
MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15206  (Online Only)
I see clients with a range of issues from depression, anxiety to simple and complex trauma, PTSD, and bipolar disorder.
My approach to Psychotherapy is warm, inviting, and strength based. I believe that each individual has a unique journey and story that needs to be told. My goal is to foster a safe and trusting therapeutic relationship that will allow for those individuals to tell their story in a safe and welcoming environment, without the fear or worry of being judged. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, as well as Person Centered Therapy to incorporate an environment of humor and all around feeling of comfort, about the changes being made in one's life with each completed goal.
I see clients with a range of issues from depression, anxiety to simple and complex trauma, PTSD, and bipolar disorder.
My approach to Psychotherapy is warm, inviting, and strength based. I believe that each individual has a unique journey and story that needs to be told. My goal is to foster a safe and trusting therapeutic relationship that will allow for those individuals to tell their story in a safe and welcoming environment, without the fear or worry of being judged. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, as well as Person Centered Therapy to incorporate an environment of humor and all around feeling of comfort, about the changes being made in one's life with each completed goal.
(878) 217-0628 View (878) 217-0628
Photo of Christina McClarren, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christina McClarren
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with 8 years of experience in the mental health field. I am passionate about helping children, adolescents, adults, and families grow beyond current challenges. I specialize in depression, anxiety, personality disorders, grief, chronic and serious mental health issues, communication, and managing life stressors.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with 8 years of experience in the mental health field. I am passionate about helping children, adolescents, adults, and families grow beyond current challenges. I specialize in depression, anxiety, personality disorders, grief, chronic and serious mental health issues, communication, and managing life stressors.
(412) 274-1644 View (412) 274-1644
Photo of Jen Jasiekiewicz, LPC, LPCC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jen Jasiekiewicz
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15223
I work with a great variety of individuals from all walks of life. I hope to help you build the confidence and skills you need to manage the stressors in your world. Together we can work on reinforcing your strengths, and I can help you to learn new skills to be able to manage your troubles. Areas of clinical focus include (but are not limited to) Trauma, Anxiety, Panic, Adjustment to College or Work, Depression, ADHD, Anger Management, LGBTQIA+ concerns, Codependency, and Phase of Life issues. I work primarily with adults and also have specific training in trauma treatment (CCTP certification).
I work with a great variety of individuals from all walks of life. I hope to help you build the confidence and skills you need to manage the stressors in your world. Together we can work on reinforcing your strengths, and I can help you to learn new skills to be able to manage your troubles. Areas of clinical focus include (but are not limited to) Trauma, Anxiety, Panic, Adjustment to College or Work, Depression, ADHD, Anger Management, LGBTQIA+ concerns, Codependency, and Phase of Life issues. I work primarily with adults and also have specific training in trauma treatment (CCTP certification).
(412) 308-5505 View (412) 308-5505

See more therapy options for Aspinwall

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.