Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Flourtown, PA
![Photo of Amanda Bonus, MEd, PsyD, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c6425487-9119-4c81-b107-381108db0181/1/320x400.jpeg)
I’ve specialized my clinical expertise around trauma (especially childhood or adult sexual trauma), sexual/gender minorities (BDSM/kink, consensual non-monogamy, LGBTQIA+), and mood challenges (anxiety, panic, depression, bipolar II).
Often the reason we enter therapy is because we are struggling with a personal experience that we feel other people won’t understand. Sometimes these struggles may center around our sexuality or gender identity. Other times we might have trouble processing painful parts of our past that could include traumatic experiences or relationship challenges. We might even have a hard time explaining to others just how much anxiety, depression, or other overwhelming thoughts have started to impact various areas of our lives. In session with me, we reflect on your experiences & build strength to move towards what's important to your future.
I’ve specialized my clinical expertise around trauma (especially childhood or adult sexual trauma), sexual/gender minorities (BDSM/kink, consensual non-monogamy, LGBTQIA+), and mood challenges (anxiety, panic, depression, bipolar II).
Often the reason we enter therapy is because we are struggling with a personal experience that we feel other people won’t understand. Sometimes these struggles may center around our sexuality or gender identity. Other times we might have trouble processing painful parts of our past that could include traumatic experiences or relationship challenges. We might even have a hard time explaining to others just how much anxiety, depression, or other overwhelming thoughts have started to impact various areas of our lives. In session with me, we reflect on your experiences & build strength to move towards what's important to your future.
![Photo of Robert J Wieman, PhD, FAACS, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c573026-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have over 40 years in the practice of Clinical Psychology, sex therapy, marital and family therapy. I work with both adolescents and adults on issues such as depression and anxiety, marital and relationship problems, loss and grieving, chronic illnesses, phase of life issues, addictions, gender and sexual identity issues, post traumatic stress disorder, and dissociative disorders. After leaving Penn State, I completed a Postdoctoral Internship in Clinical Psychology and went on to serve as Assistant Director of an addictions treatment program while completing a six year tenure as an Associate in Psychiatry at the University of Pennsylvania Medical School.
I have over 40 years in the practice of Clinical Psychology, sex therapy, marital and family therapy. I work with both adolescents and adults on issues such as depression and anxiety, marital and relationship problems, loss and grieving, chronic illnesses, phase of life issues, addictions, gender and sexual identity issues, post traumatic stress disorder, and dissociative disorders. After leaving Penn State, I completed a Postdoctoral Internship in Clinical Psychology and went on to serve as Assistant Director of an addictions treatment program while completing a six year tenure as an Associate in Psychiatry at the University of Pennsylvania Medical School.
![Photo of Kimberly Katz Vargas, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cb74cf5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kimberly Katz Vargas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Flourtown, PA 19031
Anxiety, depression, anger, and low self-esteem are issues that can be overwhelming. I help clients to identify the factors that contribute to these issues, and then assist in formulating a plan to reduce the symptoms and resolve the problems. I provide a warm, nonjudgmental environment to address these concerns. Additionally, I am experienced in working with individuals and couples struggling with relationships and/or parenting. Parenting can be wonderful, but also extremely challenging. Relationships can falter. These situations can bring up unexpected thoughts and feelings that may be difficult to share with friends and family.
Anxiety, depression, anger, and low self-esteem are issues that can be overwhelming. I help clients to identify the factors that contribute to these issues, and then assist in formulating a plan to reduce the symptoms and resolve the problems. I provide a warm, nonjudgmental environment to address these concerns. Additionally, I am experienced in working with individuals and couples struggling with relationships and/or parenting. Parenting can be wonderful, but also extremely challenging. Relationships can falter. These situations can bring up unexpected thoughts and feelings that may be difficult to share with friends and family.
![Photo of Therese M Daniels - Therese M. Daniels, MA, LPC, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/79244f95-aa5e-4b0b-9995-b8b7282206f9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Therese M. Daniels, MA, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Flourtown, PA 19031
I have immediate openings in PA! It is not uncommon for people to arrive at a place in life feeling imbalanced, stuck, and sometimes defeated. In my practice, I work collaboratively with my client's to move forward through these difficult times. I utilize an integrative mindful approach to address the person as a whole and to promote balance, healing, and wellness. I believe in meeting each individual where they are and jointly creating a plan that will best meet their needs and assist them in digging in to let the inner beauty shine through.
I have immediate openings in PA! It is not uncommon for people to arrive at a place in life feeling imbalanced, stuck, and sometimes defeated. In my practice, I work collaboratively with my client's to move forward through these difficult times. I utilize an integrative mindful approach to address the person as a whole and to promote balance, healing, and wellness. I believe in meeting each individual where they are and jointly creating a plan that will best meet their needs and assist them in digging in to let the inner beauty shine through.
![Photo of Selena Morant, MS, LPN](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/32cabdd7-78de-414a-ba6f-c62f699f3315/1/320x400.jpeg)
I strive to create a safe, open, and warm atmosphere where individuals can explore their primary interests, develop goals and identify strengths. Using a variety of approaches including mindfulness, person-centered, strengths based, cognitive behavioral therapy, and structural therapy techniques we work towards positive mental well-being. I am passionate about helping individuals, families, and relationships of any kind to reconnect and view the counseling process as an alliance between the client and therapist. I consider the client as the experts of their lives and I am here as a guide to help navigate through the process.
I strive to create a safe, open, and warm atmosphere where individuals can explore their primary interests, develop goals and identify strengths. Using a variety of approaches including mindfulness, person-centered, strengths based, cognitive behavioral therapy, and structural therapy techniques we work towards positive mental well-being. I am passionate about helping individuals, families, and relationships of any kind to reconnect and view the counseling process as an alliance between the client and therapist. I consider the client as the experts of their lives and I am here as a guide to help navigate through the process.
![Photo of Allison Kessler, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c3b7b04-1d87-43b5-b7b4-b89981a38211/2/320x400.jpeg)
Allison Kessler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Flourtown, PA 19031
Taking on change is hard work and takes a tremendous amount of courage. I value building a strong therapeutic relationship and providing a non-judgmental, empathetic, and safe space in which you might explore the problems and stressors in your life. My goal as your therapist is to help identify what prevents you from feeling good and accomplishing your goals, and finding ways to address these difficulties. Together, we can identify and nurture your strengths, and find hope and peace and change within suffering.
Taking on change is hard work and takes a tremendous amount of courage. I value building a strong therapeutic relationship and providing a non-judgmental, empathetic, and safe space in which you might explore the problems and stressors in your life. My goal as your therapist is to help identify what prevents you from feeling good and accomplishing your goals, and finding ways to address these difficulties. Together, we can identify and nurture your strengths, and find hope and peace and change within suffering.
![Photo of Joseph L Nines - Joseph L. Nines, LLC, MA, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b88c8556-38f3-45d5-9eec-adfd3407dbf1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Joseph L. Nines, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Flourtown, PA 19031
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and an Educator. I hold a Masters Degree in Clinical Psychology from LaSalle University and a Doctorate in Human Sexuality from Widener University. I maintain a private practice in Flourtown, Pennsylvania. I teach Clinical Counseling and Human Sexuality as an Adjunct Faculty member in LaSalle University's Graduate Psychology Program. I provide educational and clinical interventions in sexuality for parents, teachers and churches throughout the Philadelphia area.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and an Educator. I hold a Masters Degree in Clinical Psychology from LaSalle University and a Doctorate in Human Sexuality from Widener University. I maintain a private practice in Flourtown, Pennsylvania. I teach Clinical Counseling and Human Sexuality as an Adjunct Faculty member in LaSalle University's Graduate Psychology Program. I provide educational and clinical interventions in sexuality for parents, teachers and churches throughout the Philadelphia area.
Ann Beaupain Maebius
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Flourtown, PA 19031
I have worked as a Clinical Social Worker in a variety of settings for thirty years since receiving a Masters Degree in Social Work from the University of Michigan. I have been employed as a therapist in private practice for the past fifteen years. I treat a diverse client population of adults, adolescents, couples and families. I see individuals aged sixteen and up with phase of life issues, such as adjustment to young adulthood. I treat depression and other mood disorders, anxiety and panic disorders and relational problems.
I have worked as a Clinical Social Worker in a variety of settings for thirty years since receiving a Masters Degree in Social Work from the University of Michigan. I have been employed as a therapist in private practice for the past fifteen years. I treat a diverse client population of adults, adolescents, couples and families. I see individuals aged sixteen and up with phase of life issues, such as adjustment to young adulthood. I treat depression and other mood disorders, anxiety and panic disorders and relational problems.
![Photo of Sally Cranney, MA, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f6426640-19de-4336-9b9f-42d131306441/1/320x400.jpeg)
As an experienced psychotherapist for over 20 years, I have helped people with a variety of problems, including relationship issues, work and school-related stress, adult-child and parent issues, eating disorders, post-adoption stress, and young adult life transitions. My style is warm and accepting, and my work addresses each individual's unique experiences as related to cultural background, environment, and family of origin history.
As an experienced psychotherapist for over 20 years, I have helped people with a variety of problems, including relationship issues, work and school-related stress, adult-child and parent issues, eating disorders, post-adoption stress, and young adult life transitions. My style is warm and accepting, and my work addresses each individual's unique experiences as related to cultural background, environment, and family of origin history.
![Photo of Hope Stein, LCSW, CADC, PMAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a0b0ae23-0183-467f-b0d1-d76482b19c46/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hope Stein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC, PMAC
Verified Verified
Flourtown, PA 19031 (Online Only)
As a seasoned therapist, I offer a comprehensive and progressive therapeutic experience for substance use disorders and mental health concerns. I have worked with various clients, including adolescents, adults, families, and couples, tailoring my approach to meet their unique needs. I use comprehensive assessments to develop personalized treatments and facilitate seamless entry into treatment facilities. My goal is to enhance accessibility to treatment and empower individuals to embark on their recovery journeys.
As a seasoned therapist, I offer a comprehensive and progressive therapeutic experience for substance use disorders and mental health concerns. I have worked with various clients, including adolescents, adults, families, and couples, tailoring my approach to meet their unique needs. I use comprehensive assessments to develop personalized treatments and facilitate seamless entry into treatment facilities. My goal is to enhance accessibility to treatment and empower individuals to embark on their recovery journeys.
![Photo of Marion Rudin Frank, EdD, MA, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b5eed80-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/4/320x400.jpeg)
As a licensed psychologist, board certified clinical hypnotherapist and medical psychotherapist, I have been in private practice for 30 years in center city Philadelphia and Chestnut Hill,Pa. I am primarily Jungian, feminist, and cognitive/behavioral in orientation and use a blend of whatever suits the person and situation. My specialties include relationships, depression and anxiety/panic, self-esteem. trauma, and life transitions. I am widely published, formerly on staff at the Belmont Center and at Hahnemann and Temple Universities.The goal is to diminish negative symptoms and patterns, facilitate individuation, find your path and personal meaning in life, at work and in relationships.
As a licensed psychologist, board certified clinical hypnotherapist and medical psychotherapist, I have been in private practice for 30 years in center city Philadelphia and Chestnut Hill,Pa. I am primarily Jungian, feminist, and cognitive/behavioral in orientation and use a blend of whatever suits the person and situation. My specialties include relationships, depression and anxiety/panic, self-esteem. trauma, and life transitions. I am widely published, formerly on staff at the Belmont Center and at Hahnemann and Temple Universities.The goal is to diminish negative symptoms and patterns, facilitate individuation, find your path and personal meaning in life, at work and in relationships.
![Photo of Hillary A. Graham, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8be7c54a-2176-49e3-a837-a7e8e23ae3a1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hillary A. Graham
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Flourtown, PA 19031
I have been privileged to work alongside people of all ages, races, and beliefs, which has offered me the advantage of a wide perspective on life. One of my main goals is to help you integrate the solutions we discover in session into your daily life. I have dedicated my professional life to gaining the skills to partner with you, so you can feel excited and encouraged to consider your life and all its purposes with confidence with renewed happiness. I look forward to connecting and answering any initial questions you may have, as you choose your next healing steps!
I have been privileged to work alongside people of all ages, races, and beliefs, which has offered me the advantage of a wide perspective on life. One of my main goals is to help you integrate the solutions we discover in session into your daily life. I have dedicated my professional life to gaining the skills to partner with you, so you can feel excited and encouraged to consider your life and all its purposes with confidence with renewed happiness. I look forward to connecting and answering any initial questions you may have, as you choose your next healing steps!
![Photo of Michael R. Bridges, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4086c716-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Michael R. Bridges
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Flourtown, PA 19031
Not accepting new clients
Dr. Michael R. Bridges is a licensed psychologist and former associate professor & director of psychological services at Temple University. He was also an assistant professor & director of an inpatient Dialectical Behavior Unit at UNC-Chapel Hill & an adjunct professor in Family & Couples Therapy at Jefferson University. He has done research & published in professional journals on how people resolve painful issues in therapy related to attachment injuries in their past such as betrayals in relationships and childhood trauma. He is sought out by other psychotherapists for supervision and consultation. He is also the therapist that other therapists turn to for therapy.
Dr. Michael R. Bridges is a licensed psychologist and former associate professor & director of psychological services at Temple University. He was also an assistant professor & director of an inpatient Dialectical Behavior Unit at UNC-Chapel Hill & an adjunct professor in Family & Couples Therapy at Jefferson University. He has done research & published in professional journals on how people resolve painful issues in therapy related to attachment injuries in their past such as betrayals in relationships and childhood trauma. He is sought out by other psychotherapists for supervision and consultation. He is also the therapist that other therapists turn to for therapy.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Derek Pendleton, LCSW, ACSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4cf10ebc-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have nearly 25 years of experience providing individual, family, and couples therapy to people of all ages and diagnoses. My areas of specialty include adult/adolescent Depression, Anxiety, Panic Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Addiction (all types), and Anger Management. In addition, I work well with families whose children struggle with behavioral and emotional problems, including diagnoses of A.D.H.D., Oppositional Defiant Disorder (O.D.D.), and Autism Spectrum Disorder. I am trained in various Evidenced-Based Practices - such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) - that have been proven to help individuals feel better soon.
I have nearly 25 years of experience providing individual, family, and couples therapy to people of all ages and diagnoses. My areas of specialty include adult/adolescent Depression, Anxiety, Panic Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Addiction (all types), and Anger Management. In addition, I work well with families whose children struggle with behavioral and emotional problems, including diagnoses of A.D.H.D., Oppositional Defiant Disorder (O.D.D.), and Autism Spectrum Disorder. I am trained in various Evidenced-Based Practices - such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) - that have been proven to help individuals feel better soon.
![Photo of Derek Pendleton, LCSW, ACSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4cf10b57-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Derek Pendleton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Fort Washington, PA 19034
I have nearly 25 years of experience providing individual, family, and couples therapy to people of all ages and diagnoses. My areas of specialty include adult/adolescent Depression, Anxiety, Panic Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Addiction (all types), and Anger Management. In addition, I work well with families whose children struggle with behavioral and emotional problems, including diagnoses of A.D.H.D., Oppositional Defiant Disorder (O.D.D.), and Autism Spectrum Disorder. I am trained in various Evidenced-Based Practices - such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) - that have been proven to help individuals feel better soon.
I have nearly 25 years of experience providing individual, family, and couples therapy to people of all ages and diagnoses. My areas of specialty include adult/adolescent Depression, Anxiety, Panic Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Addiction (all types), and Anger Management. In addition, I work well with families whose children struggle with behavioral and emotional problems, including diagnoses of A.D.H.D., Oppositional Defiant Disorder (O.D.D.), and Autism Spectrum Disorder. I am trained in various Evidenced-Based Practices - such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) - that have been proven to help individuals feel better soon.
![Photo of Emily DeMalto, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7362774d-02f8-4504-9fcd-11d0128af498/3/320x400.jpeg)
I have experience working with adolescents, young adults and adults dealing with trauma, eating disorders, body image concerns, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, substance use disorders, life transitions, and personality disorders.
“The curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change.” -Carl Rodgers. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor focused on creating a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental environment in which I collaborate with clients to pursue their goals of change, self-discovery, acceptance or understanding. I believe that everyone can benefit from a relationship that is authentic, curious, non-judgmental, honest, and provides a space supportive of growth and self-discovery. This is the environment I seek to cultivate with clients in my practice.
I have experience working with adolescents, young adults and adults dealing with trauma, eating disorders, body image concerns, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, substance use disorders, life transitions, and personality disorders.
“The curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change.” -Carl Rodgers. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor focused on creating a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental environment in which I collaborate with clients to pursue their goals of change, self-discovery, acceptance or understanding. I believe that everyone can benefit from a relationship that is authentic, curious, non-judgmental, honest, and provides a space supportive of growth and self-discovery. This is the environment I seek to cultivate with clients in my practice.
![Photo of Megan McKechnie-Erb, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/772cd048-14d9-4aa4-b3c6-dd0f418161d0/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have experience working with individuals who struggle with depression, trauma, anxiety, substance use, grief and bipolar disorder.
It takes courage to reach out for assistance, I want to applaud you for your bravery and willingness to invest time in yourself. I am passionate about working with people to set goals that are meaningful to them and feel achievable. I strive to meet each client where they are at when they walk in for each session and create a safe, non-judgmental environment where we can explore life challenges. I hope that as a team, we can strengthen coping skills, problem-solving abilities and create a future that is more in line with your values.
I have experience working with individuals who struggle with depression, trauma, anxiety, substance use, grief and bipolar disorder.
It takes courage to reach out for assistance, I want to applaud you for your bravery and willingness to invest time in yourself. I am passionate about working with people to set goals that are meaningful to them and feel achievable. I strive to meet each client where they are at when they walk in for each session and create a safe, non-judgmental environment where we can explore life challenges. I hope that as a team, we can strengthen coping skills, problem-solving abilities and create a future that is more in line with your values.
![Photo of Lana Selitsky, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/092a4cb4-249b-4e11-b2ac-7e631b219049/2/320x400.jpeg)
Selitsky specializes in treating anxiety, depression, bipolar, stress management, mood disorders, grief/loss, self-identity, self-esteem issues, anger management, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.
Ms. Selitsky received her Master's Degree in Counseling Psychology from Holy Family University in 2014. Ms. Selitsky utilizes CBT, Solution Focus, and Psychodynamic Psychotherapy. Ms. Selitsky has expanded her professional development to study Mindfulness, and Motivational Interviewing. As a Licensed Professional Counselor, Ms. Selitsky works with clients age 14 to older adults, utilizing individual, couple/marital modalities.
Selitsky specializes in treating anxiety, depression, bipolar, stress management, mood disorders, grief/loss, self-identity, self-esteem issues, anger management, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.
Ms. Selitsky received her Master's Degree in Counseling Psychology from Holy Family University in 2014. Ms. Selitsky utilizes CBT, Solution Focus, and Psychodynamic Psychotherapy. Ms. Selitsky has expanded her professional development to study Mindfulness, and Motivational Interviewing. As a Licensed Professional Counselor, Ms. Selitsky works with clients age 14 to older adults, utilizing individual, couple/marital modalities.
![Photo of Dan Livney, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c7ae756-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sometimes they may come with diagnoses such as bipolar and borderline disorders, or psychosis.
How does the "talking cure" help? It might have even been called the "listening cure." Having a helpful and supportive ear is something many people find they need at various transition points in their lives. Having a safe place to talk, in a warm and supportive environment, is crucial. The tool of our work is the relationship and, as research has shown, is the most important predictor of success in psychotherapy. I enjoy working with my patients as they seek to find their way to a richer and more fulfilling life.
Sometimes they may come with diagnoses such as bipolar and borderline disorders, or psychosis.
How does the "talking cure" help? It might have even been called the "listening cure." Having a helpful and supportive ear is something many people find they need at various transition points in their lives. Having a safe place to talk, in a warm and supportive environment, is crucial. The tool of our work is the relationship and, as research has shown, is the most important predictor of success in psychotherapy. I enjoy working with my patients as they seek to find their way to a richer and more fulfilling life.
See more therapy options for Flourtown
Nearby Bipolar Disorder Therapists Searches for Flourtown
- Abington
- Ambler
- Blue Bell
- Dresher
- Elkins Park
- Glenside
- Jenkintown
- Lafayette Hill
- Oreland
- Plymouth Meeting
- Wyncote
- Wyndmoor
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.