Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Gaffney, SC

Photo of Fredrika Croker Foster - Finding Purpose Counseling, MA, LPC-A
Finding Purpose Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPC-A
Verified Verified
Gaffney, SC 29341
Coping with daily stressors that tend to interrupt your daily living can be difficult. At times, it can be overwhelming trying to navigate through life feeling alone and not living to your fullest potential. I want to help you find your purpose and reach your personal and career goals. I want to help you put all the pieces of your life together to make a better you. I help individuals with the following, but not limited to: Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Coping Skills, Career/Occupational Stress and more.
Coping with daily stressors that tend to interrupt your daily living can be difficult. At times, it can be overwhelming trying to navigate through life feeling alone and not living to your fullest potential. I want to help you find your purpose and reach your personal and career goals. I want to help you put all the pieces of your life together to make a better you. I help individuals with the following, but not limited to: Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Coping Skills, Career/Occupational Stress and more.
(864) 523-6572 View (864) 523-6572
Photo of Megan Elizabeth Harris, MS, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Megan Elizabeth Harris
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Gaffney, SC 29340
Waitlist for new clients
Our world is ever-changing, and we live in a society that can make every day a challenge. I am here to try and help make those days, and all of the days that follow, better for you. I take pride in being genuine, non-judgmental, open-minded, tolerant, patient, respectful, supportive, and honest. I will strive to build a positive therapeutic relationship with each of you, and to do all that I can to help you reach your goals. I own and operate Lotus Counseling, LLC. Why lotus? Because the lotus flower grows up through nasty, thick mud and still blooms into a beautiful flower - and people can, too! No mud, no lotus!
Our world is ever-changing, and we live in a society that can make every day a challenge. I am here to try and help make those days, and all of the days that follow, better for you. I take pride in being genuine, non-judgmental, open-minded, tolerant, patient, respectful, supportive, and honest. I will strive to build a positive therapeutic relationship with each of you, and to do all that I can to help you reach your goals. I own and operate Lotus Counseling, LLC. Why lotus? Because the lotus flower grows up through nasty, thick mud and still blooms into a beautiful flower - and people can, too! No mud, no lotus!
View
Photo of Dr. Christie Rogers-Larke, EdD, NCC, BC-TMH, RPT-S, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Christie Rogers-Larke
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, NCC, BC-TMH, RPT-S, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Gaffney, SC 29341
My practice name sums up my view that every person has the power to heal themselves and problems are simply symptoms of things that are going on. I specialize in child, adolescent and family therapy and have training in a variety of modalities. As such, I tailor my approaches to best meet your needs (CBT therapies, art and play therapies, behavioral approaches, social skills, EMDR, Somatic Experiencing and trauma techniques). Therapy, in its truest sense, is not about comfort because it is never easy dealing with some of our areas but my goal is to make the process supportive and safe.
My practice name sums up my view that every person has the power to heal themselves and problems are simply symptoms of things that are going on. I specialize in child, adolescent and family therapy and have training in a variety of modalities. As such, I tailor my approaches to best meet your needs (CBT therapies, art and play therapies, behavioral approaches, social skills, EMDR, Somatic Experiencing and trauma techniques). Therapy, in its truest sense, is not about comfort because it is never easy dealing with some of our areas but my goal is to make the process supportive and safe.
(864) 305-4151 View (864) 305-4151
Photo of Megan Holder - Overmountain Counseling LLC, EdS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Overmountain Counseling LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LPC
Verified Verified
Gaffney, SC 29341
Not accepting new clients
All of life is a climb. At Overmountain Counseling you can grow and develop skills and strategies to help you on your journey to overcome life's difficulties.
All of life is a climb. At Overmountain Counseling you can grow and develop skills and strategies to help you on your journey to overcome life's difficulties.
(864) 383-9388 View (864) 383-9388
Photo of Stacey L Jackson, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stacey L Jackson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Gaffney, SC 29340
True counseling creates a relationship between the client and the counselor; a relationship of mutual respect and trust. With the right counselor this relationship can be life-changing. My approach is unique. My office space is cozy and inviting, just like your very own living room. Also, I believe in being down to earth and straightforward with my clients, and in working with them to bring about true healing.
True counseling creates a relationship between the client and the counselor; a relationship of mutual respect and trust. With the right counselor this relationship can be life-changing. My approach is unique. My office space is cozy and inviting, just like your very own living room. Also, I believe in being down to earth and straightforward with my clients, and in working with them to bring about true healing.
(864) 938-7883 View (864) 938-7883
Photo of Dr. Ashley Height, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Ashley Height
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gaffney, SC 29341  (Online Only)
I am Ashley Height, and I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC) in South Carolina. In addition to my LPC, I have also been a professional school counselor at the high school level for thirteen years. I completed my bachelor's degree in Interdisciplinary Studies: Psychology/Education at North Greenville University and my master's degree in School Counseling from Gardner-Webb University. I completed my Ed.D. in Community Care and Counseling with an emphasis in Traumatology from Liberty University.
I am Ashley Height, and I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC) in South Carolina. In addition to my LPC, I have also been a professional school counselor at the high school level for thirteen years. I completed my bachelor's degree in Interdisciplinary Studies: Psychology/Education at North Greenville University and my master's degree in School Counseling from Gardner-Webb University. I completed my Ed.D. in Community Care and Counseling with an emphasis in Traumatology from Liberty University.
(864) 894-2839 View (864) 894-2839
Photo of J. Marty Height, LPC, LPCS, LAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
J. Marty Height
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LPCS, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gaffney, SC 29341
In the counseling process, I use relationship building to develop the foundation from which to address needs. Drawing from personal experience and education, I work hard to support people as they move from where they are to where they want to be. Motivated by my deep faith, I feel that all people matter and that change is always possible.
In the counseling process, I use relationship building to develop the foundation from which to address needs. Drawing from personal experience and education, I work hard to support people as they move from where they are to where they want to be. Motivated by my deep faith, I feel that all people matter and that change is always possible.
(864) 707-9434 View (864) 707-9434

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Betsy Claire Neely - Be Well Counseling, Ed S, LPC, FMCHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Be Well Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, Ed S, LPC, FMCHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Spartanburg, SC 29307
Whether you are looking for a way to lessen your emotional pain or maybe you are struggling with your current mood or your lower energy level, I would be honored to partner with you on your journey towards a well life. As a Licensed Professional Counselor with 12 plus years of experience, I have seen individuals actively move into mind and body wellness time and time again.
Whether you are looking for a way to lessen your emotional pain or maybe you are struggling with your current mood or your lower energy level, I would be honored to partner with you on your journey towards a well life. As a Licensed Professional Counselor with 12 plus years of experience, I have seen individuals actively move into mind and body wellness time and time again.
(864) 479-4712 View (864) 479-4712
Photo of Kevin K Cooksey - Family Builders Counseling Services, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Family Builders Counseling Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Spartanburg, SC 29307
The mission of Family Builders Counseling Services is to provide the community with a full service of counseling and mental health support. Our purpose is to help clients achieve their goals and educate them through the counseling process. I believe that supporting clients with a spiritual, psychological, social and biological model of counseling allows for the client to examine their lives fully. This wholeness counseling can provide clients with the skills to achieve a more productive and satisfying life.
The mission of Family Builders Counseling Services is to provide the community with a full service of counseling and mental health support. Our purpose is to help clients achieve their goals and educate them through the counseling process. I believe that supporting clients with a spiritual, psychological, social and biological model of counseling allows for the client to examine their lives fully. This wholeness counseling can provide clients with the skills to achieve a more productive and satisfying life.
(864) 645-9510 View (864) 645-9510
Photo of Caroline Mittmann - SOAR Counseling Services, LLC, LMFT, RPT, Marriage & Family Therapist
SOAR Counseling Services, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, RPT
Verified Verified
Spartanburg, SC 29307
Not accepting new clients
Clients who are looking for someone to support them in their search for health, healing, or growth through a joint, active, and safe process are invited to reach out to my practice. I am professionally trained to work with a variety of mental and emotional disorders, including stress, anxiety, depression, as well as relational and behavioral problems.
Clients who are looking for someone to support them in their search for health, healing, or growth through a joint, active, and safe process are invited to reach out to my practice. I am professionally trained to work with a variety of mental and emotional disorders, including stress, anxiety, depression, as well as relational and behavioral problems.
(864) 531-5507 View (864) 531-5507

Online Therapists

Photo of Candace Rose Vivas, MAC, LPCA
Candace Rose Vivas
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MAC, LPCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Mill, SC 29708
So if you are struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, or dissociative identity disorder, please consider me as your therapist.
Now Taking New Clients! How are you doing today? I know at times things can be hard, but I am here for you. Let me help you deal with life's struggles and issues, and work on healing, growing, or in reaching your full potential. Therapy is not a one-dimensional place where you go to only talk about your feelings, but a place where you can holistically work on yourself. Therapy should be a safe place for people to understand themselves, unburden, heal, and morph themselves- all on their own terms. No matter what diagnosis or problem I guarantee I will go on this journey with you.
So if you are struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, or dissociative identity disorder, please consider me as your therapist.
Now Taking New Clients! How are you doing today? I know at times things can be hard, but I am here for you. Let me help you deal with life's struggles and issues, and work on healing, growing, or in reaching your full potential. Therapy is not a one-dimensional place where you go to only talk about your feelings, but a place where you can holistically work on yourself. Therapy should be a safe place for people to understand themselves, unburden, heal, and morph themselves- all on their own terms. No matter what diagnosis or problem I guarantee I will go on this journey with you.
(803) 879-1592 View (803) 879-1592
Photo of Theresa McDaniel, LPCS, MA, NCC, CCMHC, CGIP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Theresa McDaniel
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCS, MA, NCC, CCMHC, CGIP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29223
I have experience in grief therapy, behavioral modification, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, ADHD, anger management, mood disorders (depression, bipolar etc.
Everyone has had a time in their life that they may feel overwhelmed, stressed, sad, or uncertain about life. Dawn of a New Day Counseling & Consulting, is here for you. Allow Dawn of a New Day C&C providers to assist with your development of self-awareness, self-empowerment, an increase in confident and the ability to recognize and manage those intense emotions. Dawn of a New Day Counseling & Consulting is a tranquil, warm and non-judgmental environment that allows you to open up and express yourself. A safe space for you to be you, to develop the your self-care plan, healthy boundaries, self-love and self-compassion.
I have experience in grief therapy, behavioral modification, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, ADHD, anger management, mood disorders (depression, bipolar etc.
Everyone has had a time in their life that they may feel overwhelmed, stressed, sad, or uncertain about life. Dawn of a New Day Counseling & Consulting, is here for you. Allow Dawn of a New Day C&C providers to assist with your development of self-awareness, self-empowerment, an increase in confident and the ability to recognize and manage those intense emotions. Dawn of a New Day Counseling & Consulting is a tranquil, warm and non-judgmental environment that allows you to open up and express yourself. A safe space for you to be you, to develop the your self-care plan, healthy boundaries, self-love and self-compassion.
(803) 219-2625 View (803) 219-2625
Photo of Lauren C Kittrell, MA, LPC
Lauren C Kittrell
MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Travelers Rest, SC 29690
I offer help for clients who are facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, Bipolar Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, trauma, and the like.
Do you ever feel stuck? Do you ever feel weighed down by a present situation or past hurts? Perhaps you've struggled with depression, anxiety, or intrusive thoughts for years but things have gotten worse and you're ready to take that first step towards help. I consider it an honor to be allowed to sit with someone in their pain and help them find a healthy way through the pain towards healing. I am especially passionate about trauma and grief work, but see a variety of clients with differing needs. I would love to hear from you about how I might be able to help you through your current challenges.
I offer help for clients who are facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, Bipolar Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, trauma, and the like.
Do you ever feel stuck? Do you ever feel weighed down by a present situation or past hurts? Perhaps you've struggled with depression, anxiety, or intrusive thoughts for years but things have gotten worse and you're ready to take that first step towards help. I consider it an honor to be allowed to sit with someone in their pain and help them find a healthy way through the pain towards healing. I am especially passionate about trauma and grief work, but see a variety of clients with differing needs. I would love to hear from you about how I might be able to help you through your current challenges.
(864) 635-4954 View (864) 635-4954
Photo of Veronique Gilmore, LPC , Licensed Professional Counselor
Veronique Gilmore
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Rock Hill, SC 29732
My name is Veronique Gilmore. I am a licensed professional counselor in South Carolina. I like to meet the client where they are and tailor my sessions to their need. From day one we start with building coping strategies. I use cognitive behavioral therapy as the basis to my approach; however, I do pull interventions from other therapeutic approaches if they would benefit my client. I have experience working with people from various mental health disorders. I find that tend to have people who experience life changes, emotion regulation trouble, bipolar disorder, anxiety and depression more frequently.
My name is Veronique Gilmore. I am a licensed professional counselor in South Carolina. I like to meet the client where they are and tailor my sessions to their need. From day one we start with building coping strategies. I use cognitive behavioral therapy as the basis to my approach; however, I do pull interventions from other therapeutic approaches if they would benefit my client. I have experience working with people from various mental health disorders. I find that tend to have people who experience life changes, emotion regulation trouble, bipolar disorder, anxiety and depression more frequently.
(854) 946-5482 View (854) 946-5482
Photo of Debra Ann McFarland, MA, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Debra Ann McFarland
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29223  (Online Only)
I have worked successful with people wanting to learn how to manage their depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD and other mental health disorders. I have worked with people wanting to build and maintain relationships as well as couples wanting to work on and increase their intimacy. My goal is to assist my clients with learning more effective coping skills to assist them with managing negative thoughts and behaviors that have become problematic and prevent them from living the life that they want to live.
I have worked successful with people wanting to learn how to manage their depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD and other mental health disorders. I have worked with people wanting to build and maintain relationships as well as couples wanting to work on and increase their intimacy. My goal is to assist my clients with learning more effective coping skills to assist them with managing negative thoughts and behaviors that have become problematic and prevent them from living the life that they want to live.
(803) 274-5506 View (803) 274-5506
Photo of John E. Epps, MSW, LISW-CP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
John E. Epps
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Travelers Rest, SC 29690  (Online Only)
I am skilled in working with clients who are struggling with issues related to: Self-Esteem, Anxiety, Depression, Addiction, LGBTQ issues, Bipolar Disorder, Relationships, Sexuality, Gender Identify, Acceptance, Adjustment Disorder, Trauma, Grief and Stress.
I am accepting new patients for Telehealth appointments. Please email me and I will get back with you ASAP! You're welcome to call, but emails are easier to respond to. I love working with clients to help them see their inherent human value and to help them achieve their goals. I believe that healing is absolutely possible and will commit to helping clients on that journey. Together, we will address those critical self-thoughts and work towards replacing them with authentic and affirming thoughts. I offer a safe, non-judgmental space for clients to learn and grow and heal. I work with clients ages 16 and older.
I am skilled in working with clients who are struggling with issues related to: Self-Esteem, Anxiety, Depression, Addiction, LGBTQ issues, Bipolar Disorder, Relationships, Sexuality, Gender Identify, Acceptance, Adjustment Disorder, Trauma, Grief and Stress.
I am accepting new patients for Telehealth appointments. Please email me and I will get back with you ASAP! You're welcome to call, but emails are easier to respond to. I love working with clients to help them see their inherent human value and to help them achieve their goals. I believe that healing is absolutely possible and will commit to helping clients on that journey. Together, we will address those critical self-thoughts and work towards replacing them with authentic and affirming thoughts. I offer a safe, non-judgmental space for clients to learn and grow and heal. I work with clients ages 16 and older.
(864) 740-0800 View (864) 740-0800
Photo of Jeff Burgdorfer, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jeff Burgdorfer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Greenville, SC 29615
Jeff Burgdorfer is a Licensed Professional Counselor with 10 years of experience helping individuals and families. He specializes in anxiety, depression, addiction, bipolar disorder, ADHD, grief/loss, and men's issues. Jeff has spent the last 10 years working in many of the major treatment settings, providing therapy to clients in hospitals, residential rehab programs, and outpatient facilities. Through this work, he has cultivated and strengthened a unique skill set to help clients, using a person-centered approach to therapy.
Jeff Burgdorfer is a Licensed Professional Counselor with 10 years of experience helping individuals and families. He specializes in anxiety, depression, addiction, bipolar disorder, ADHD, grief/loss, and men's issues. Jeff has spent the last 10 years working in many of the major treatment settings, providing therapy to clients in hospitals, residential rehab programs, and outpatient facilities. Through this work, he has cultivated and strengthened a unique skill set to help clients, using a person-centered approach to therapy.
(864) 659-2271 View (864) 659-2271
Photo of Gabby Lux, MEd, EdS, NCC, LPCA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Gabby Lux
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, EdS, NCC, LPCA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Greenville, SC 29607
Waitlist for new clients
Do you feel weighed down or numb in your daily life? Do your anxieties or other recurrent thoughts make it difficult to live the life you wish you could? Are you struggling to know where to begin or what to do to feel better? If you are reading this, you are already one step closer to the understanding, freedom, and happiness you deserve. My name is Gabby Lux, and I consider it an honor to help teens, college students, adults, and parents navigate their life journeys. I primarily see clients experiencing anxiety, depression, OCD, bipolar, ADHD, peri/postpartum concerns, trauma, and impactful life transitions.
Do you feel weighed down or numb in your daily life? Do your anxieties or other recurrent thoughts make it difficult to live the life you wish you could? Are you struggling to know where to begin or what to do to feel better? If you are reading this, you are already one step closer to the understanding, freedom, and happiness you deserve. My name is Gabby Lux, and I consider it an honor to help teens, college students, adults, and parents navigate their life journeys. I primarily see clients experiencing anxiety, depression, OCD, bipolar, ADHD, peri/postpartum concerns, trauma, and impactful life transitions.
(864) 383-9946 View (864) 383-9946
Photo of Kelly Orner Toney, LMSW, LISW-CP, CEDS-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelly Orner Toney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LISW-CP, CEDS-S
Verified Verified
Spartanburg, SC 29316  (Online Only)
Eating Disorders, Dual Diagnosis, Anxiety, Trauma, Anorexia, Bulimia, Binge Eating Disorders, Body Image & Muscle Dysmorphia, Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorders (ARFID),(OSFED), Athlete Triad, Over-Exercising, Excercise-Resistance, Self Esteem, Emotional Eating, Diet Cycling, ADHD, Depression, Bipolar.
Aloha Center is a group of passionate therapists and coaches, who are experts in eating disorder care. We work with adolescents, adults & families to fully recover from discorded eating or an eating disorder. We offer individual, family, & group counseling, and peer groups & recovery coaching. We are some of the few specialists providing Family-Based Treatment (FBT) considered the gold standard for eating disorders. Our approach uses evidenced-based treatment like CBT, DBT, mindfulness, and embodiment. Services can be accessed in person at our Columbia, SC office, or via telehealth online in SC and NC.
Eating Disorders, Dual Diagnosis, Anxiety, Trauma, Anorexia, Bulimia, Binge Eating Disorders, Body Image & Muscle Dysmorphia, Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorders (ARFID),(OSFED), Athlete Triad, Over-Exercising, Excercise-Resistance, Self Esteem, Emotional Eating, Diet Cycling, ADHD, Depression, Bipolar.
Aloha Center is a group of passionate therapists and coaches, who are experts in eating disorder care. We work with adolescents, adults & families to fully recover from discorded eating or an eating disorder. We offer individual, family, & group counseling, and peer groups & recovery coaching. We are some of the few specialists providing Family-Based Treatment (FBT) considered the gold standard for eating disorders. Our approach uses evidenced-based treatment like CBT, DBT, mindfulness, and embodiment. Services can be accessed in person at our Columbia, SC office, or via telehealth online in SC and NC.
(864) 808-3439 View (864) 808-3439
Photo of Sonja Middleton, LISW-CP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sonja Middleton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29223
Sonja Middleton is a Licensed Independent Social Worker in South Carolina who has been practicing since 2000. She obtained her Master’s degree in Social Work and has a certificate in Gerontology. Her previous experience is working in hospitals, outpatient, nursing homes, and in the jail. She sees adults from 18 years up and from all ethnic groups. Sonja enjoys working with people who have depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, and loss issues, bipolar, schizophrenia, and personality disorders. She uses an eclectic approach pulling from CBT, DBT, and is person centered.
Sonja Middleton is a Licensed Independent Social Worker in South Carolina who has been practicing since 2000. She obtained her Master’s degree in Social Work and has a certificate in Gerontology. Her previous experience is working in hospitals, outpatient, nursing homes, and in the jail. She sees adults from 18 years up and from all ethnic groups. Sonja enjoys working with people who have depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, and loss issues, bipolar, schizophrenia, and personality disorders. She uses an eclectic approach pulling from CBT, DBT, and is person centered.
(803) 974-4086 View (803) 974-4086

See more therapy options for Gaffney

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.