Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Philadelphia, PA

Photo of Ben Goldstein, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ben Goldstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19143  (Online Only)
I have supported people who struggle with many different forms of mental distress, including bipolar disorder, psychosis, depression and anxiety, as well as difficulties navigating life transitions and relationship issues.
Therapy is a place to get curious about areas in your life where you might feel stuck, depressed, or isolated. In our work together, I strive to create a space that builds capacity for you to change by exploring your relationships, both past and present. I hope to support you in arriving at a deeper sense of connection to the world around you and the people in it.
I have supported people who struggle with many different forms of mental distress, including bipolar disorder, psychosis, depression and anxiety, as well as difficulties navigating life transitions and relationship issues.
Therapy is a place to get curious about areas in your life where you might feel stuck, depressed, or isolated. In our work together, I strive to create a space that builds capacity for you to change by exploring your relationships, both past and present. I hope to support you in arriving at a deeper sense of connection to the world around you and the people in it.
(267) 263-7336 View (267) 263-7336
Photo of Kyonghui Janice Shin - Philip Jaisohn Counseling Center, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Philip Jaisohn Counseling Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19126
We have experience treating clients with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, educational issues, and eating disorders.
We want to welcome clients who might be new to therapy but have struggled for a long time with depression, anxiety, family conflict or other mental health issues. You might have avoided therapy because of stigma or misconceptions. You feel overwhelmed at times and feel that now is the time to seek help. We can speak to anyone living in New Jersey and Pennsylvania through the convenience of tele-therapy. We have English and Korean speaking therapists who are compassionate and want to make therapy a comfortable experience for you.
We have experience treating clients with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, educational issues, and eating disorders.
We want to welcome clients who might be new to therapy but have struggled for a long time with depression, anxiety, family conflict or other mental health issues. You might have avoided therapy because of stigma or misconceptions. You feel overwhelmed at times and feel that now is the time to seek help. We can speak to anyone living in New Jersey and Pennsylvania through the convenience of tele-therapy. We have English and Korean speaking therapists who are compassionate and want to make therapy a comfortable experience for you.
(844) 982-2464 View (844) 982-2464
Photo of Amanda Large, CAADC, CCTP, Psychologist
Amanda Large
Psychologist, CAADC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19122  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with clients who struggle with co-occurring disorders, Bipolar Disorders, and substance use disorders.
I work alongside my clients to help them feel seen and heard, achieve their goals, and live their best possible lives. It is very important to me that I provide a place that feels safe, nonjudgmental, and supportive, which is the foundation of therapy and helps facilitate change. The goals that people work on in therapy can involve anything that is important to them- learning healthier ways to express anger, finding new ways to cope with the effects of past traumas, stabilizing mood episodes (e.g., mania, depression), maintaining and establishing sobriety, improving their relationship with themself and others, and more.
I specialize in working with clients who struggle with co-occurring disorders, Bipolar Disorders, and substance use disorders.
I work alongside my clients to help them feel seen and heard, achieve their goals, and live their best possible lives. It is very important to me that I provide a place that feels safe, nonjudgmental, and supportive, which is the foundation of therapy and helps facilitate change. The goals that people work on in therapy can involve anything that is important to them- learning healthier ways to express anger, finding new ways to cope with the effects of past traumas, stabilizing mood episodes (e.g., mania, depression), maintaining and establishing sobriety, improving their relationship with themself and others, and more.
(215) 607-2950 View (215) 607-2950
Photo of Elle Schwan Avery, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Elle Schwan Avery
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103  (Online Only)
I have worked with clients on a variety of issues such as anxiety, depression, ADD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, etc.
After over 20 years of experience working with clients, I have come to view myself as my clients' guide through the emotional landscape of their lives. I am dedicated to providing my clients with a comfortable, safe, non-judgmental, therapeutic environment in which they can explore their thoughts, feelings and behaviors. Together we form a partnership to determine the direction required for a client's healing, healthy emotional growth, and successful life functioning. Client's value my down to earth and easy to talk to style, free of intimidation and judgment.
I have worked with clients on a variety of issues such as anxiety, depression, ADD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, etc.
After over 20 years of experience working with clients, I have come to view myself as my clients' guide through the emotional landscape of their lives. I am dedicated to providing my clients with a comfortable, safe, non-judgmental, therapeutic environment in which they can explore their thoughts, feelings and behaviors. Together we form a partnership to determine the direction required for a client's healing, healthy emotional growth, and successful life functioning. Client's value my down to earth and easy to talk to style, free of intimidation and judgment.
(610) 810-1870 View (610) 810-1870
Photo of Carolyn Weimer, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Carolyn Weimer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19154  (Online Only)
Struggling with trauma, PTSD, or bipolar disorder? Your mental health is my priority. You're seeking support to manage these conditions, improve your mental health, and find stability. I'm here to help you achieve your goals and lead a fulfilling life.
Struggling with trauma, PTSD, or bipolar disorder? Your mental health is my priority. You're seeking support to manage these conditions, improve your mental health, and find stability. I'm here to help you achieve your goals and lead a fulfilling life.
(412) 923-0121 View (412) 923-0121
Photo of Patricia Pierzga, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Patricia Pierzga
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Patricia "Trish" Pierzga is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 3 years of experience. She is passionate about partnering with adults and adolescents to assist them in understanding life's challenges in a safe space. Trish specializes in anxiety, depression, grief, chronic illness, bipolar disorders, life transitions, and trauma. She uses an integrated treatment approach, which includes cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), reality therapy (RT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), person-centered therapy (PCT), and solutions-focused therapy (SFT).
Patricia "Trish" Pierzga is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 3 years of experience. She is passionate about partnering with adults and adolescents to assist them in understanding life's challenges in a safe space. Trish specializes in anxiety, depression, grief, chronic illness, bipolar disorders, life transitions, and trauma. She uses an integrated treatment approach, which includes cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), reality therapy (RT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), person-centered therapy (PCT), and solutions-focused therapy (SFT).
(484) 759-9342 View (484) 759-9342
Photo of Shereema Molette - Trinity Creations Counseling, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Trinity Creations Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19121  (Online Only)
Hello, My name is Shereema Molette and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Pennsylvania and New Jersey. I have been a therapist for 15 years working in numerous settings in the human service field. I have worked with children and adults addressing various issues and concerns. I currently work at non-profit supervising therapists that work in the Philadelphia School District. My passion has always been to help others and I feel fulfilled working in the field of psychology. My expertise spans many different areas but my true passion is working with children and adults as they navigate Bipolar Disorder and other clas
Hello, My name is Shereema Molette and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Pennsylvania and New Jersey. I have been a therapist for 15 years working in numerous settings in the human service field. I have worked with children and adults addressing various issues and concerns. I currently work at non-profit supervising therapists that work in the Philadelphia School District. My passion has always been to help others and I feel fulfilled working in the field of psychology. My expertise spans many different areas but my true passion is working with children and adults as they navigate Bipolar Disorder and other clas
(856) 245-2316 View (856) 245-2316
Photo of Kealsey Beecham, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kealsey Beecham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19143  (Online Only)
I am a passionate therapist whose mission is to help you to achieve emotional wellness. As a licensed clinical social worker, I’ve practiced therapy for over 7 years in a variety of settings. My therapeutic treatment modalities include Cognitive and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Prolonged Exposure and Solution Focused Brief Therapy with an understanding of choosing from eclectic, appropriate modalities to meet the client’s needs. I have experience treating a wide variety of mental health diagnoses including: anxiety, depression, trauma, and bipolar disorder and substance abuse.
I am a passionate therapist whose mission is to help you to achieve emotional wellness. As a licensed clinical social worker, I’ve practiced therapy for over 7 years in a variety of settings. My therapeutic treatment modalities include Cognitive and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Prolonged Exposure and Solution Focused Brief Therapy with an understanding of choosing from eclectic, appropriate modalities to meet the client’s needs. I have experience treating a wide variety of mental health diagnoses including: anxiety, depression, trauma, and bipolar disorder and substance abuse.
(215) 883-4896 View (215) 883-4896
Photo of Kathryn Hilton, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kathryn Hilton
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19119
Sometimes we need support to navigate the ups and downs of life. If you feel overwhelmed or lost, I’m here to help you explore your unique concerns and find your way forward. I help clients with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, gender dysphoria, and borderline personality disorder.
Sometimes we need support to navigate the ups and downs of life. If you feel overwhelmed or lost, I’m here to help you explore your unique concerns and find your way forward. I help clients with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, gender dysphoria, and borderline personality disorder.
(215) 709-6284 View (215) 709-6284
Photo of Angelo Rannazzisi, PsyD, Psychologist
Angelo Rannazzisi
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19102
Provider within Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates, a network of over 20 Psychiatrists, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners and Psychotherapists offering in-office psychiatric evaluations, medication management and psychotherapy in Philadelphia and on The Main Line, and Virtual Telehealth Psychiatric Appointments to patients in New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania and Florida. Treatment for Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder and ADHD. Call to see which providers are licensed in your location.
Provider within Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates, a network of over 20 Psychiatrists, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners and Psychotherapists offering in-office psychiatric evaluations, medication management and psychotherapy in Philadelphia and on The Main Line, and Virtual Telehealth Psychiatric Appointments to patients in New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania and Florida. Treatment for Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder and ADHD. Call to see which providers are licensed in your location.
(484) 261-1263 View (484) 261-1263
Photo of Jean Campbell, MSS, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jean Campbell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
I have experience working with adults and adolescents diagnosed with Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder and Schizophrenia.
As a therapist I meet you where you are in life and join with you for a time on your journey to self-improvement. On this journey, it is so important to feel heard. Therapy is about being heard and empowering you to use your voice to be the person you want to be and to lead the life you want to lead. I listen deeply as we work together to identify and meet your therapeutic goals. I believe the environment is a part of the whole person that impacts one’s emotional, mental and physical well-being and needs to be considered in therapy. I invite your feedback regarding what is working and not working for you in our therapy sessions.
I have experience working with adults and adolescents diagnosed with Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder and Schizophrenia.
As a therapist I meet you where you are in life and join with you for a time on your journey to self-improvement. On this journey, it is so important to feel heard. Therapy is about being heard and empowering you to use your voice to be the person you want to be and to lead the life you want to lead. I listen deeply as we work together to identify and meet your therapeutic goals. I believe the environment is a part of the whole person that impacts one’s emotional, mental and physical well-being and needs to be considered in therapy. I invite your feedback regarding what is working and not working for you in our therapy sessions.
(610) 609-2958 View (610) 609-2958
Photo of Cody Weaver, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cody Weaver
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103  (Online Only)
Things I've treated most are depression, anxiety, LGBTQIA issues, trauma, OCD, Bipolar Disorder, and ADHD.
Hello! My name is Cody (he/him) and I'm currently licensed as an LCSW/therapist in Pennsylvania. I received by Bachelors degree from Coastal Carolina University in 2010 and then my Masters degree from Winthrop University in 2012. I began practicing while I was in graduate school so I'm currently on my 13th year of practice. My clinical background includes outpatient therapy, in-home therapy, integrated behavioral health and primary care, inpatient treatment, and forensic psychology. Since I've run a large span of different practices I consider myself a jack-of-all trades when it comes to mental health and therapy.
Things I've treated most are depression, anxiety, LGBTQIA issues, trauma, OCD, Bipolar Disorder, and ADHD.
Hello! My name is Cody (he/him) and I'm currently licensed as an LCSW/therapist in Pennsylvania. I received by Bachelors degree from Coastal Carolina University in 2010 and then my Masters degree from Winthrop University in 2012. I began practicing while I was in graduate school so I'm currently on my 13th year of practice. My clinical background includes outpatient therapy, in-home therapy, integrated behavioral health and primary care, inpatient treatment, and forensic psychology. Since I've run a large span of different practices I consider myself a jack-of-all trades when it comes to mental health and therapy.
(484) 699-0906 View (484) 699-0906
Photo of Alyssa Renee Kirk, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alyssa Renee Kirk
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19125  (Online Only)
I have experience with the following diagnoses: depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, substance abuse, PTSD, and psychotic disorders.
I am a licensed professional counselor in the state of Pennsylvania with 13 years experience in therapy. I also have a background in social work with expertise in linking individuals to community resources.
I have experience with the following diagnoses: depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, substance abuse, PTSD, and psychotic disorders.
I am a licensed professional counselor in the state of Pennsylvania with 13 years experience in therapy. I also have a background in social work with expertise in linking individuals to community resources.
(610) 890-6076 View (610) 890-6076
Photo of Janet Montgomery, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Janet Montgomery
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103  (Online Only)
I have years of experience working with adults struggling with mental health concerns such as depression, anxiety, mood disorder, binge eating disorder, bipolar disorder, addiction, and PTSD.
Hello, my name is Janet. My mission is to support others on their journey to leading a healthy, rewarding life to their fullest potential. Life gets complicated at times, and everyone can benefit from working with a therapist at one point or another.
I have years of experience working with adults struggling with mental health concerns such as depression, anxiety, mood disorder, binge eating disorder, bipolar disorder, addiction, and PTSD.
Hello, my name is Janet. My mission is to support others on their journey to leading a healthy, rewarding life to their fullest potential. Life gets complicated at times, and everyone can benefit from working with a therapist at one point or another.
(484) 702-3023 View (484) 702-3023
Photo of Mary Edwards, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mary Edwards
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19125  (Online Only)
The decision to seek help for life's issues can be both scary and exciting. I know how important it is to have someone to talk with, who can see more objectively than we can see ourselves. I have worked extensively with people who have mood disorders, such as depression and bipolar, anxiety and panic, anger problems, communication and relationship difficulties, and more. I have worked with many people who feel that their spiritual relationship has been damaged or destroyed. Spirituality does not have to be part of our work, but if you have spiritual wounds that you would like to work on, I can help you to heal them.
The decision to seek help for life's issues can be both scary and exciting. I know how important it is to have someone to talk with, who can see more objectively than we can see ourselves. I have worked extensively with people who have mood disorders, such as depression and bipolar, anxiety and panic, anger problems, communication and relationship difficulties, and more. I have worked with many people who feel that their spiritual relationship has been damaged or destroyed. Spirituality does not have to be part of our work, but if you have spiritual wounds that you would like to work on, I can help you to heal them.
(267) 382-4206 View (267) 382-4206
Photo of Caroline Kuttler, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Caroline Kuttler
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19147
I use an integrated approach including Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) informed, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and EMDR to treat trauma, PTSD, bipolar disorder, BDP, depression, and anxiety.
Deciding to start therapy can be a challenging and vulnerable process. My goal as a therapist is to make each individual feel as safe and supported as possible with high levels of empathy, compassion, and genuineness. Throughout the therapy process, I value the importance of improving relationships, managing stress, and increasing the ability to identify and regulate emotions. In sessions, I emphasis the importance of processing core beliefs we hold towards ourself and the world, practicing daily mindfulness, and learning skills to effectively regulate our emotions. I also provide supervision for pre-licensed clinicians!
I use an integrated approach including Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) informed, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and EMDR to treat trauma, PTSD, bipolar disorder, BDP, depression, and anxiety.
Deciding to start therapy can be a challenging and vulnerable process. My goal as a therapist is to make each individual feel as safe and supported as possible with high levels of empathy, compassion, and genuineness. Throughout the therapy process, I value the importance of improving relationships, managing stress, and increasing the ability to identify and regulate emotions. In sessions, I emphasis the importance of processing core beliefs we hold towards ourself and the world, practicing daily mindfulness, and learning skills to effectively regulate our emotions. I also provide supervision for pre-licensed clinicians!
(215) 608-1069 View (215) 608-1069
Photo of Julie Rand, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Julie Rand
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19102  (Online Only)
I have worked with a wide range of mental health disorders including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and trauma.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor motivated to help people alleviate symptoms and suffering, heal wounds, deal with the past, the present, and create a healthier future. In treatment a partnership forms and together we decide how to make positive changes and accomplish goals in a way that is right for you. I use evidence-based practices including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, and Brainspotting. I provide a safe, judgment- free space filled with empathy and compassion to facilitate the therapeutic process.
I have worked with a wide range of mental health disorders including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and trauma.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor motivated to help people alleviate symptoms and suffering, heal wounds, deal with the past, the present, and create a healthier future. In treatment a partnership forms and together we decide how to make positive changes and accomplish goals in a way that is right for you. I use evidence-based practices including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, and Brainspotting. I provide a safe, judgment- free space filled with empathy and compassion to facilitate the therapeutic process.
(267) 668-0619 View (267) 668-0619
Photo of Theodore Meyer, MA , LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Theodore Meyer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA , LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19125  (Online Only)
My experience also includes therapy for bipolar disorder, autism spectrum, life transition, grief and loss, self-esteem, trauma, and peer relationships.
I view the mental health recovery process as similar to climbing a mountain: the first steps may feel overwhelming at times, however, therapy is a partnership where I can provide tools that help my clients get where they would like to go, while also building resiliency and strength for the future. Throughout the process, I will provide encouragement and at times, remind you to look back at how far you have come. Furthermore, I provide a non-judgmental and empathic space for this journey to occur.
My experience also includes therapy for bipolar disorder, autism spectrum, life transition, grief and loss, self-esteem, trauma, and peer relationships.
I view the mental health recovery process as similar to climbing a mountain: the first steps may feel overwhelming at times, however, therapy is a partnership where I can provide tools that help my clients get where they would like to go, while also building resiliency and strength for the future. Throughout the process, I will provide encouragement and at times, remind you to look back at how far you have come. Furthermore, I provide a non-judgmental and empathic space for this journey to occur.
(610) 890-7944 View (610) 890-7944
Photo of Chris Grundy - Lighthouse Therapy Associates, PsyD, Psychologist
Lighthouse Therapy Associates
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19109
We are also skilled at working with people with psychotic and bipolar disorders.
Our therapists strive to create a non-judgmental and compassionate space to offer guidance and help create change. We offer both shorter term solution-focused therapy as well as longer term in-depth psychotherapy depending on your individual needs. Our goal is to help you uncover your true potential and understand yourself better, leading to symptom reduction and lasting change.
We are also skilled at working with people with psychotic and bipolar disorders.
Our therapists strive to create a non-judgmental and compassionate space to offer guidance and help create change. We offer both shorter term solution-focused therapy as well as longer term in-depth psychotherapy depending on your individual needs. Our goal is to help you uncover your true potential and understand yourself better, leading to symptom reduction and lasting change.
(267) 209-6615 View (267) 209-6615
Photo of Diana Wolovnick, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Diana Wolovnick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19102
I specialize in mood disorders (such as depression, anxiety and bipolar disorder), relationship and peer issues, grief and loss and stressful life transitions.
Often people find themselves to be stuck or unhappy and they don't know how they got there. Or maybe there is a specific problem you're dealing with and you need an outside perspective and unbiased help working through it and getting back to a more comfortable and productive place. Sometimes it's helpful to just have a safe space to share what's going on inside your head. I consider therapy a natural and helpful extension of your regular daily life. My hope is that sessions with me are conversations and explorations into what you think about and what you want for yourself and your relationships.
I specialize in mood disorders (such as depression, anxiety and bipolar disorder), relationship and peer issues, grief and loss and stressful life transitions.
Often people find themselves to be stuck or unhappy and they don't know how they got there. Or maybe there is a specific problem you're dealing with and you need an outside perspective and unbiased help working through it and getting back to a more comfortable and productive place. Sometimes it's helpful to just have a safe space to share what's going on inside your head. I consider therapy a natural and helpful extension of your regular daily life. My hope is that sessions with me are conversations and explorations into what you think about and what you want for yourself and your relationships.
(516) 495-9998 View (516) 495-9998

See more therapy options for Philadelphia

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.