Photo of Varinia Anderson, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Varinia Anderson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Crozet, VA 22932
Not accepting new clients
I am a Trauma Informed-Bilingual clinician focused on providing mental health services to the local community. I have worked in the mental health field since 2011 through various agencies such: as Region Ten, ReadyKids, Albemarle County, Charlottesville City Schools, Mary Ainsworth Attachment Clinic, and The Women's Initiative. I have experience in treating adults, and teens with complex trauma, anxiety, depression, domestic violence, sexual abuse, attachment disorders, neglect, and immigration trauma.
I am a Trauma Informed-Bilingual clinician focused on providing mental health services to the local community. I have worked in the mental health field since 2011 through various agencies such: as Region Ten, ReadyKids, Albemarle County, Charlottesville City Schools, Mary Ainsworth Attachment Clinic, and The Women's Initiative. I have experience in treating adults, and teens with complex trauma, anxiety, depression, domestic violence, sexual abuse, attachment disorders, neglect, and immigration trauma.
(434) 423-5379 View (434) 423-5379

Online Therapists

Photo of Cassandra Kennell - Shenandoah Psychological Services, LLC, PsyD, MA, LCSW, LCP, LPC, Psychologist
Shenandoah Psychological Services, LLC
Psychologist, PsyD, MA, LCSW, LCP, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Harrisonburg, VA 22801
Our counselors are extensively trained with expertise in treating anger, ADHD, PTSD, trauma, substance abuse, bipolar disorder, and other issues.
Now Accepting New Clients! All of our clinicians offer both in-person sessions and teletherapy. We work with children, adolescents, and adults in our Roanoke and Harrisonburg offices. Call our clinical coordinator at (540) 251-7728 ext. 1 to inquire about openings. Shenandoah Psychological Services offers an array of psychological and counseling options to suit your needs. We specialize in varying categories of counseling ranging from emotional and behavioral matters to substance abuse. We strive to offer the highest quality of psychological services in Roanoke city, the Shenandoah Valley, and surrounding areas.
Our counselors are extensively trained with expertise in treating anger, ADHD, PTSD, trauma, substance abuse, bipolar disorder, and other issues.
Now Accepting New Clients! All of our clinicians offer both in-person sessions and teletherapy. We work with children, adolescents, and adults in our Roanoke and Harrisonburg offices. Call our clinical coordinator at (540) 251-7728 ext. 1 to inquire about openings. Shenandoah Psychological Services offers an array of psychological and counseling options to suit your needs. We specialize in varying categories of counseling ranging from emotional and behavioral matters to substance abuse. We strive to offer the highest quality of psychological services in Roanoke city, the Shenandoah Valley, and surrounding areas.
(540) 251-7728 View (540) 251-7728
Photo of Melissa Addessi, LPC-R
Melissa Addessi
Resident in Counseling, LPC-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030  (Online Only)
I have experience working with adults and teens who experience anxiety, depression, trauma, social anxiety and bipolar disorder.
Seeking a compassionate guide for your journey? Look no further. I offer empathetic, judgment-free support to help you navigate challenges and embark on transformation. My person-centered approach ensures a tailored experience. By actively listening and asking thoughtful questions, I empower you to discover solutions that resonate with your unique needs, fostering autonomy. Using cognitive-behavioral therapy, I assist in gaining control over thoughts and behaviors. Together, we reshape negative patterns, cultivating a positive mindset. Mindfulness enhances self-awareness, providing tools for stress management.
I have experience working with adults and teens who experience anxiety, depression, trauma, social anxiety and bipolar disorder.
Seeking a compassionate guide for your journey? Look no further. I offer empathetic, judgment-free support to help you navigate challenges and embark on transformation. My person-centered approach ensures a tailored experience. By actively listening and asking thoughtful questions, I empower you to discover solutions that resonate with your unique needs, fostering autonomy. Using cognitive-behavioral therapy, I assist in gaining control over thoughts and behaviors. Together, we reshape negative patterns, cultivating a positive mindset. Mindfulness enhances self-awareness, providing tools for stress management.
(571) 777-0233 View (571) 777-0233
Photo of Ben Thomas, MEd, LPC, CSAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ben Thomas
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, CSAC
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030
I have experience supporting people in recovery, addressing issues related to depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder.
I am a clinician with over 30 years combined experience in the fields of substance abuse and mental health. I have worked for a number of years assisting adults find recovery in an outpatient substance abuse setting. In more recent years, I have worked with people of all ages experiencing a mental health and/or substance abuse crisis. I use a client centered approach and I am familiar with other treatment modalities such as cognitive behavior therapy.
I have experience supporting people in recovery, addressing issues related to depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder.
I am a clinician with over 30 years combined experience in the fields of substance abuse and mental health. I have worked for a number of years assisting adults find recovery in an outpatient substance abuse setting. In more recent years, I have worked with people of all ages experiencing a mental health and/or substance abuse crisis. I use a client centered approach and I am familiar with other treatment modalities such as cognitive behavior therapy.
(571) 520-9567 View (571) 520-9567
Photo of Scott Chattin, MS,  LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Scott Chattin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Salem, VA 24153
I want to create a safe, non-judgmental environment for you! I am here to support you in making meaningful changes and addressing areas of personal growth and development. We will work together on a plan that will work for your individual needs so you can live a happier life and get back to living well. I am an LPC and have 15 years of experience in the mental health field. I specialize in the treatment of OCD, anxiety disorders, depression, men's issues, substance use, bipolar disorders, self-harm, trauma, and grief. I have worked with clients of all ages and a wide variety of treatment needs, including clients in crisis.
I want to create a safe, non-judgmental environment for you! I am here to support you in making meaningful changes and addressing areas of personal growth and development. We will work together on a plan that will work for your individual needs so you can live a happier life and get back to living well. I am an LPC and have 15 years of experience in the mental health field. I specialize in the treatment of OCD, anxiety disorders, depression, men's issues, substance use, bipolar disorders, self-harm, trauma, and grief. I have worked with clients of all ages and a wide variety of treatment needs, including clients in crisis.
(540) 565-5441 View (540) 565-5441
Photo of Erin Janovec, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Erin Janovec
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Manassas, VA 20112
Hello! My name is Erin Janovec. I am a licensed professional counselor in Virginia. My approach to therapy is a humanistic and integrated approach that considers each individual's unique needs. I am certified in EMDR and trained in TF-CBT. I have worked with clients ranging from young to old with varying diagnoses. I have experience working with individuals with substance use disorders, depression, anxiety, bipolar, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, and more.
Hello! My name is Erin Janovec. I am a licensed professional counselor in Virginia. My approach to therapy is a humanistic and integrated approach that considers each individual's unique needs. I am certified in EMDR and trained in TF-CBT. I have worked with clients ranging from young to old with varying diagnoses. I have experience working with individuals with substance use disorders, depression, anxiety, bipolar, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, and more.
(540) 264-9592 View (540) 264-9592
Photo of Ana Lee Marie Lee Palou-Miranda, PhD, Psychologist
Ana Lee Marie Lee Palou-Miranda
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22304  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with a variety of patients and have gained great experience with victims of sexual abuse and their families. I have extensive experience with (PTSD) symptoms, anxiety, major Depression Disorder, Axis II Disorders (i.e. Antisocial Behavior Personality, Borderline Personality Disorder), Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective disorder, and suicidal patients.
I enjoy working with a variety of patients and have gained great experience with victims of sexual abuse and their families. I have extensive experience with (PTSD) symptoms, anxiety, major Depression Disorder, Axis II Disorders (i.e. Antisocial Behavior Personality, Borderline Personality Disorder), Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective disorder, and suicidal patients.
(571) 487-8236 View (571) 487-8236
Photo of Erin Janovec, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Erin Janovec
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Ashburn, VA 20147
Hello! My name is Erin Janovec. I am a licensed professional counselor in Virginia. My approach to therapy is a humanistic and integrated approach that considers each individual's unique needs. I am certified in EMDR and trained in TF-CBT. I have worked with clients ranging from young to old with varying diagnoses. I have experience working with individuals with substance use disorders, depression, anxiety, bipolar, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, and more.
Hello! My name is Erin Janovec. I am a licensed professional counselor in Virginia. My approach to therapy is a humanistic and integrated approach that considers each individual's unique needs. I am certified in EMDR and trained in TF-CBT. I have worked with clients ranging from young to old with varying diagnoses. I have experience working with individuals with substance use disorders, depression, anxiety, bipolar, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, and more.
(804) 373-2360 View (804) 373-2360
Photo of Theresa Thomas, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Theresa Thomas
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Chantilly, VA 20151
I am Theresa Thomas, a licensed professional therapist. I have worked with individuals, couples, and families seeking counseling for over 10 years, both online and in my private practice treating clients dealing with stress, anxiety, grief, parenting issues, depression, and coping with life changes. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started! I treat clients dealing with anxiety, depression, grief, bipolar disorder, and borderline personality disorder.
I am Theresa Thomas, a licensed professional therapist. I have worked with individuals, couples, and families seeking counseling for over 10 years, both online and in my private practice treating clients dealing with stress, anxiety, grief, parenting issues, depression, and coping with life changes. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started! I treat clients dealing with anxiety, depression, grief, bipolar disorder, and borderline personality disorder.
(757) 960-7257 View (757) 960-7257
Photo of Jane C. Hollings, NCC, LCMHC, CSOTP:, NC, VA, NH, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jane C. Hollings
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LCMHC, CSOTP:, NC, VA, NH
Verified Verified
Vienna, VA 22182
I work with Grief/Loss, Bipolar, Complex Trauma, PTSD, DID, Attachment Issues, ODD/Conduct Disorder Issues, Depression, Juvenile Sex Offending and Victims, EAP Referrals, Long and Short Term Therapy, Christian Counseling to those with this interest. I work with age groups from 11 years of age and up. Psycho-sexual Assessments ( sexual misbehavior) for ages 11-18 and Bio-Psycho assessments (behavior) upon request.
I work with Grief/Loss, Bipolar, Complex Trauma, PTSD, DID, Attachment Issues, ODD/Conduct Disorder Issues, Depression, Juvenile Sex Offending and Victims, EAP Referrals, Long and Short Term Therapy, Christian Counseling to those with this interest. I work with age groups from 11 years of age and up. Psycho-sexual Assessments ( sexual misbehavior) for ages 11-18 and Bio-Psycho assessments (behavior) upon request.
(919) 419-0524 x3 View (919) 419-0524 x3
Photo of Katie Lewis, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katie Lewis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24017
I have experience in treating trauma, substance abuse, self-esteem issues, anger management, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, OCD, eating disorders, interpersonal challenges, and more.
Welcome! It’s an honor for me to provide guidance for those who struggle with their mental health. I find that continuing to improve my practice while remaining humble helps my clients feel they are receiving quality care. It’s one of my top priorities to uphold strong ethical standards so my clients feel safe and comfortable.
I have experience in treating trauma, substance abuse, self-esteem issues, anger management, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, OCD, eating disorders, interpersonal challenges, and more.
Welcome! It’s an honor for me to provide guidance for those who struggle with their mental health. I find that continuing to improve my practice while remaining humble helps my clients feel they are receiving quality care. It’s one of my top priorities to uphold strong ethical standards so my clients feel safe and comfortable.
(540) 251-7728 x1 View (540) 251-7728 x1
Photo of Sara E Goins, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sara E Goins
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Forest, VA 24551  (Online Only)
I have experience with diagnoses such as trauma, depression, anxiety, bipolar, substance use, anger, and more.
Hello! Thank you for taking the time to read my profile! My primary goal as a therapist is to make sure that each session is client-centered. This means that YOU are the main focus of therapy! I aim to ensure that therapy sessions are tailored to meet the needs of each client so that the individual can feel comfortable, supported, heard, accepted, and most of all-ready to grow. I tailor sessions to fit each client by integrating the client’s strengths and interests into sessions (art, writing, crafting, and music). One of my favorite things to integrate into session (when appropriate) is humor! I love to laugh!
I have experience with diagnoses such as trauma, depression, anxiety, bipolar, substance use, anger, and more.
Hello! Thank you for taking the time to read my profile! My primary goal as a therapist is to make sure that each session is client-centered. This means that YOU are the main focus of therapy! I aim to ensure that therapy sessions are tailored to meet the needs of each client so that the individual can feel comfortable, supported, heard, accepted, and most of all-ready to grow. I tailor sessions to fit each client by integrating the client’s strengths and interests into sessions (art, writing, crafting, and music). One of my favorite things to integrate into session (when appropriate) is humor! I love to laugh!
(434) 201-7658 View (434) 201-7658
Photo of Theresa Thomas, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Theresa Thomas
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23233
I am Theresa Thomas, a licensed professional therapist. I have worked with individuals, couples, and families seeking counseling for over 10 years, both online and in my private practice treating clients dealing with stress, anxiety, grief, parenting issues, depression, and coping with life changes. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started! I treat clients dealing with anxiety, depression, grief, bipolar disorder, and borderline personality disorder.
I am Theresa Thomas, a licensed professional therapist. I have worked with individuals, couples, and families seeking counseling for over 10 years, both online and in my private practice treating clients dealing with stress, anxiety, grief, parenting issues, depression, and coping with life changes. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started! I treat clients dealing with anxiety, depression, grief, bipolar disorder, and borderline personality disorder.
(804) 599-4466 View (804) 599-4466
Photo of Ayrielle Williams - The Peaceful Place, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
The Peaceful Place
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vienna, VA 22182
The Peaceful Place hosts a diverse group of therapists who are passionate about helping clients heal and tap into their power! Our therapists host a wide range of specialties such as Sex Therapy, Trauma Therapy, Substance Dependence/Abuse, and personality disorders! Our expert clinicians treat several mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, narcissistic personality disorder, antisocial personality disorder, addictions, intimacy issues, sexual issues/dysfunctions. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with one of our amazing clinicians!
The Peaceful Place hosts a diverse group of therapists who are passionate about helping clients heal and tap into their power! Our therapists host a wide range of specialties such as Sex Therapy, Trauma Therapy, Substance Dependence/Abuse, and personality disorders! Our expert clinicians treat several mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, narcissistic personality disorder, antisocial personality disorder, addictions, intimacy issues, sexual issues/dysfunctions. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with one of our amazing clinicians!
(571) 200-1836 View (571) 200-1836
Photo of Donald Lewis Bohannon, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Donald Lewis Bohannon
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fredericksburg, VA 22401
Dr. Bohannon is a Licensed Professional counselor with a heart to see individuals, couples, and families completely restored. Dr. Donald Bohannon strives to bring an effective blend of experience, expertise, clarity, concern and action to the counseling process in order to maximize outcomes and provide genuine healing and wholeness to individuals, marriages and families. Dr. Bohannon is experienced in counseling children, adolescents, and adults. Emphasis include mood disorders, posttraumatic stress disorder, conduct disorder, attention deficit hyperactive disorder, depression, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, and trauma.
Dr. Bohannon is a Licensed Professional counselor with a heart to see individuals, couples, and families completely restored. Dr. Donald Bohannon strives to bring an effective blend of experience, expertise, clarity, concern and action to the counseling process in order to maximize outcomes and provide genuine healing and wholeness to individuals, marriages and families. Dr. Bohannon is experienced in counseling children, adolescents, and adults. Emphasis include mood disorders, posttraumatic stress disorder, conduct disorder, attention deficit hyperactive disorder, depression, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, and trauma.
(540) 358-8436 View (540) 358-8436
Photo of Sally Jane Glowicki, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sally Jane Glowicki
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Farmville, VA 23901
Sally has been practicing as a licensed therapist and has worked in the mental health field for 25+ years. She has a wide range of experience and has treated a broad spectrum of populations in counseling groups, individuals and couples. Her areas of practice include working with individuals that have bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder, PTSD, OCD, borderline personality disorder. Sally specializes in dialectical behavior therapy, and also incorporates interpersonal and cognitive behavioral therapies into treatment.
Sally has been practicing as a licensed therapist and has worked in the mental health field for 25+ years. She has a wide range of experience and has treated a broad spectrum of populations in counseling groups, individuals and couples. Her areas of practice include working with individuals that have bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder, PTSD, OCD, borderline personality disorder. Sally specializes in dialectical behavior therapy, and also incorporates interpersonal and cognitive behavioral therapies into treatment.
(434) 277-4968 View (434) 277-4968
Photo of Wister Todd Mitchelson - Haymarket Counseling , NCC, LPC, LSATP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Haymarket Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LPC, LSATP
Verified Verified
Stanardsville, VA 22973
Wister has extensive experience working with at risk youth, crisis, mental health and addiction counseling working as a TDT (Therapeutic Day Treatment) Clinician, Program Manager, and Clinician within the county’s mental health and substance abuse treatment system. Wister enjoys utilizing his training in CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), MI (Motivational Interviewing) via Eclectic Counselling techniques to produce a structure towards daily wellness.
Wister has extensive experience working with at risk youth, crisis, mental health and addiction counseling working as a TDT (Therapeutic Day Treatment) Clinician, Program Manager, and Clinician within the county’s mental health and substance abuse treatment system. Wister enjoys utilizing his training in CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), MI (Motivational Interviewing) via Eclectic Counselling techniques to produce a structure towards daily wellness.
(434) 443-6531 View (434) 443-6531
Photo of Angelina Harris, LCSW, LSATP, PMH-C, CCTP, MAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Angelina Harris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LSATP, PMH-C, CCTP, MAC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lansdowne, VA 20176
Licensed in VA, WVA, MD and NC. Are you struggling with your overall mental wellness? Have you tried therapy in the past and not seen the progress you were expecting? I am here to offer support and collaborate with you to find hope. Therapy is a shared journey to identify new insights and work on finding actionable solutions. I actively listen to get to know you, develop a clinical relationship and address your unique needs while in a calm and comfortable setting. We work together to create tangible tools to process past experiences, including trauma, and tackle current complicated life issues to facilitate a healthier future.
Licensed in VA, WVA, MD and NC. Are you struggling with your overall mental wellness? Have you tried therapy in the past and not seen the progress you were expecting? I am here to offer support and collaborate with you to find hope. Therapy is a shared journey to identify new insights and work on finding actionable solutions. I actively listen to get to know you, develop a clinical relationship and address your unique needs while in a calm and comfortable setting. We work together to create tangible tools to process past experiences, including trauma, and tackle current complicated life issues to facilitate a healthier future.
(703) 372-9941 View (703) 372-9941
Photo of Gabrielle Oblena, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Gabrielle Oblena
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Charlottesville, VA 22901
Hello there! I'm Gabby Oblena, a Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia and a National Certified Counselor. Should you choose to embark on this journey with me, my aim is to empower you with the ability to embrace vulnerability, discover your resilience, foster healthier relationships with both yourself and others, and untangle any complexities you may be facing. You are in control of your voyage, and I am here to serve as your navigator, meeting you at your current point and collaborating towards achieving your desired outcomes.
Hello there! I'm Gabby Oblena, a Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia and a National Certified Counselor. Should you choose to embark on this journey with me, my aim is to empower you with the ability to embrace vulnerability, discover your resilience, foster healthier relationships with both yourself and others, and untangle any complexities you may be facing. You are in control of your voyage, and I am here to serve as your navigator, meeting you at your current point and collaborating towards achieving your desired outcomes.
(434) 425-7188 x1 View (434) 425-7188 x1
Photo of David L Mortellaro - ABT Counseling Roanoke and Salem Offices, LPC, LMFT, Licensed Professional Counselor
ABT Counseling Roanoke and Salem Offices
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24018
We are an outpatient mental health practice in Roanoke, Salem, Blacksburg, Daleville, and Floyd, Virginia, dedicated to helping patients overcome emotional problems using counseling techniques that promote more rapid recovery than traditional non-directive therapy. Everyone goes through challenging situations, and while you may have successfully navigated through other difficulties you’ve faced, there’s nothing wrong with seeking out extra support when needed. Therapy provides long-lasting benefits and support, giving you the tools you need to avoid triggers, re-direct damaging patterns, and overcome whatever challenges you face.
We are an outpatient mental health practice in Roanoke, Salem, Blacksburg, Daleville, and Floyd, Virginia, dedicated to helping patients overcome emotional problems using counseling techniques that promote more rapid recovery than traditional non-directive therapy. Everyone goes through challenging situations, and while you may have successfully navigated through other difficulties you’ve faced, there’s nothing wrong with seeking out extra support when needed. Therapy provides long-lasting benefits and support, giving you the tools you need to avoid triggers, re-direct damaging patterns, and overcome whatever challenges you face.
(540) 215-7423 View (540) 215-7423
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.