Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Orange, VA

Photo of Barbara Ann Gaddy - Monarch Journey Counseling Services LLC, LPC, COSTP, RPT-S, CSAC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Monarch Journey Counseling Services LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, COSTP, RPT-S, CSAC, ACS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Orange, VA 22960
Monarch Journey Counseling LLC is located at 146 Byrd Street Orange, Va. Hours are by appointment. We look forward to meeting you!
Monarch Journey Counseling LLC is located at 146 Byrd Street Orange, Va. Hours are by appointment. We look forward to meeting you!
(540) 360-1739 View (540) 360-1739
Photo of Chantal Racheau-Bryant; Life In Focus Counseling, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Chantal Racheau-Bryant; Life In Focus Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Orange, VA 22960
Sometimes we become overwhelmed by life and need to reach out to another for help, this takes bravery, and it’s important that you feel the person you reach out to is unbiased, safe with your privacy, is knowledgeable, and truly hears where you are. Over the last 10 years Chantal Racheau-Bryant, LPC has worked extensively with adults in crisis helping to guide them through darker moments of their lives until they are able to see the road ahead more clearly. Each person has their own unique journey and Chantal works to find a holistic approach to therapy that best fits your style and helps you on your journey.
Sometimes we become overwhelmed by life and need to reach out to another for help, this takes bravery, and it’s important that you feel the person you reach out to is unbiased, safe with your privacy, is knowledgeable, and truly hears where you are. Over the last 10 years Chantal Racheau-Bryant, LPC has worked extensively with adults in crisis helping to guide them through darker moments of their lives until they are able to see the road ahead more clearly. Each person has their own unique journey and Chantal works to find a holistic approach to therapy that best fits your style and helps you on your journey.
(540) 253-1473 View (540) 253-1473
Photo of Charlotte A. Schafer, BS, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Charlotte A. Schafer
Licensed Professional Counselor, BS, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orange, VA 22960  (Online Only)
Do you wish you knew better coping strategies for managing ADHD, anxiety, or depression? Are you feeling under the control of others and don’t know how to break free? Are you experiencing guilt, or sadness that doesn't go away? As a professional counselor I can help you find your way back to a more joyful, healthy life. As a caring professional I can teach you techniques that make these distresses lesson or even leave, and help you regain a more balanced perspective over your emotional issues. Are you looking for empowerment over emotional habiting? As a balanced Christian counselor I have answers, I would love to help you.
Do you wish you knew better coping strategies for managing ADHD, anxiety, or depression? Are you feeling under the control of others and don’t know how to break free? Are you experiencing guilt, or sadness that doesn't go away? As a professional counselor I can help you find your way back to a more joyful, healthy life. As a caring professional I can teach you techniques that make these distresses lesson or even leave, and help you regain a more balanced perspective over your emotional issues. Are you looking for empowerment over emotional habiting? As a balanced Christian counselor I have answers, I would love to help you.
(434) 595-3062 View (434) 595-3062
Photo of Sarah McClelland - Counseling Services of Virginia, LCSW, LPC, OT, CALT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Counseling Services of Virginia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LPC, OT, CALT
Verified Verified
Orange, VA 22960
Have your negative thoughts taken over? Have you been feeling sad or stressed while trying to keep it all together? Struggling with motivation? Are your relationships distant or full of conflict? Have you been feeling disconnected from those around you? Wanting to talk with someone but not knowing with whom, or how? Asking for help can be hard! Seeking therapy requires a great deal of strength and commitment and you have taken a great first step. We are going to guide you the rest of the way.
Have your negative thoughts taken over? Have you been feeling sad or stressed while trying to keep it all together? Struggling with motivation? Are your relationships distant or full of conflict? Have you been feeling disconnected from those around you? Wanting to talk with someone but not knowing with whom, or how? Asking for help can be hard! Seeking therapy requires a great deal of strength and commitment and you have taken a great first step. We are going to guide you the rest of the way.
(540) 699-1767 View (540) 699-1767

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Donna Adams, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Donna Adams
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Radiant, VA 22732
Welcome! My name is Donna Adams and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Virginia with over 31 years of experience. I work with all ages, races and genders. I work with people who find the need to have assistance with regulating their world so that they are able to focus and balance themselves on a daily basis. My areas of focus include ADHD, anger management, behavioral issues, family conflict, and relationship issues. I work with each person on their level, and I do not assume that a certain therapeutic concept will work for anyone.
Welcome! My name is Donna Adams and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Virginia with over 31 years of experience. I work with all ages, races and genders. I work with people who find the need to have assistance with regulating their world so that they are able to focus and balance themselves on a daily basis. My areas of focus include ADHD, anger management, behavioral issues, family conflict, and relationship issues. I work with each person on their level, and I do not assume that a certain therapeutic concept will work for anyone.
(540) 502-4387 View (540) 502-4387

Online Therapists

Photo of Shannon Talley, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shannon Talley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23235
I have specialty experience with the treatment and management of Bipolar disorder, Schizoaffective, and Schizophrenia.
Have you ever heard someone tell you "Just get over it!"? When someone is struggling with a major life change, grief, or health challenge, this is not acceptable! Let's talk about your story, your journey, and your destination. My goal is for you to leave your appointment with a feeling of validation and direction. I love when my clients realize that they are capable and start reaching their goals. Partnering with me means that you will always have someone who is willing to walk alongside you in moments when you are feeling a little bit lost or alone. My passion is to see you find your direction and live your life to the fullest.
I have specialty experience with the treatment and management of Bipolar disorder, Schizoaffective, and Schizophrenia.
Have you ever heard someone tell you "Just get over it!"? When someone is struggling with a major life change, grief, or health challenge, this is not acceptable! Let's talk about your story, your journey, and your destination. My goal is for you to leave your appointment with a feeling of validation and direction. I love when my clients realize that they are capable and start reaching their goals. Partnering with me means that you will always have someone who is willing to walk alongside you in moments when you are feeling a little bit lost or alone. My passion is to see you find your direction and live your life to the fullest.
(804) 395-6123 View (804) 395-6123
Photo of Willard Vaughn - TMTSonline.com, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
TMTSonline.com
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030  (Online Only)
My main focus is on affective disorders such as depression and bipolar disorder.
You may feel desperate, alone, and misunderstood. You feel like you are floating in the bottom of a lake and cannot see the light above you. Everyday, you feel like you are just going through the motions. If this describes you, then I may be the therapist for you. In my ten years of experience, I have helped people like you reach their potential and achieve the recovery that they needed. There is no set system or quick fix as others may promise, but I will walk down the road with you. My online practice provides care anywhere you are, in the comfort of your own environment.
My main focus is on affective disorders such as depression and bipolar disorder.
You may feel desperate, alone, and misunderstood. You feel like you are floating in the bottom of a lake and cannot see the light above you. Everyday, you feel like you are just going through the motions. If this describes you, then I may be the therapist for you. In my ten years of experience, I have helped people like you reach their potential and achieve the recovery that they needed. There is no set system or quick fix as others may promise, but I will walk down the road with you. My online practice provides care anywhere you are, in the comfort of your own environment.
(757) 690-2778 View (757) 690-2778
Photo of Rachel Spurrier - New Horizons Counseling Services, PsyD, Psychologist
New Horizons Counseling Services
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Winchester, VA 22601
Dr. Rachel Spurrier is a licensed clinical psychologist administering comprehensive psychological evaluations to clarify client diagnosis as well as to provide recommendations for treatment. Dr. Spurrier has administered testing to clients with concerns related to depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, adjustment disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), learning disabilities, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Her goal with clients is to make them feel comfortable and secure with the evaluative process, and to understand the importance of testing as they progress in their therapeutic treatment.
Dr. Rachel Spurrier is a licensed clinical psychologist administering comprehensive psychological evaluations to clarify client diagnosis as well as to provide recommendations for treatment. Dr. Spurrier has administered testing to clients with concerns related to depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, adjustment disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), learning disabilities, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Her goal with clients is to make them feel comfortable and secure with the evaluative process, and to understand the importance of testing as they progress in their therapeutic treatment.
(540) 773-3999 View (540) 773-3999
Photo of Candace Ford, MA, CMH, LPC-R, Pre-Licensed Professional
Candace Ford
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, CMH, LPC-R
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 20301  (Online Only)
I provide counseling services to adolescents, adults, and couples. I see people for individual, family, and couples counseling. I also provide grief and substance abuse group counseling. My services for individuals address anxiety, depression; bipolar disorder; trauma, grief; and substance abuse.
I provide counseling services to adolescents, adults, and couples. I see people for individual, family, and couples counseling. I also provide grief and substance abuse group counseling. My services for individuals address anxiety, depression; bipolar disorder; trauma, grief; and substance abuse.
View
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 Jan L Barrymore - JPCounseling, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
JPCounseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Williamsburg, VA 23188
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. My experience includes treating mood and anxiety disorders, such as depression, bipolar disorder, social anxiety, generalized anxiety, panic disorder, OCD, and PTSD in adults and adolescents. I also work with gay/lesbian/ bisexual/ and transgendered clients. I work with people to improve their self-esteem, self-confidence, handle anger issues and relationships. My goal is to empower individuals to take control of their lives. I believe people have the ability to heal themselves and talking with someone can make a difference.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. My experience includes treating mood and anxiety disorders, such as depression, bipolar disorder, social anxiety, generalized anxiety, panic disorder, OCD, and PTSD in adults and adolescents. I also work with gay/lesbian/ bisexual/ and transgendered clients. I work with people to improve their self-esteem, self-confidence, handle anger issues and relationships. My goal is to empower individuals to take control of their lives. I believe people have the ability to heal themselves and talking with someone can make a difference.
(757) 655-0315 View (757) 655-0315
Marche E Covington
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dunn Loring, VA 22027
I may refer you to your physician as an adjunct to your therapy for Depression, Anxiety, Menopause, PMS, Post-Partum, Thyroid, Bipolar, ADHD, or Dementia - Mind & Body & Soul.
Marriage can be Joyful or Disappointing - I find it's usually not the Marriage, but the Two People in it! As a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, I have worked with couples for over 40 years to restore their marriage & to meet their own individual needs. Trauma, infidelity, arguments, in-laws, parenting, depression, grief, chronic illness, substance abuse takes its toll. With a focused interview of the couple & each spouse I quickly analyze and discover where the Real Issues lie. With a collaborative approach, we can unwind years of wounds & scars and begin to rebuild a mutually secure and satisfying relationship for you.
I may refer you to your physician as an adjunct to your therapy for Depression, Anxiety, Menopause, PMS, Post-Partum, Thyroid, Bipolar, ADHD, or Dementia - Mind & Body & Soul.
Marriage can be Joyful or Disappointing - I find it's usually not the Marriage, but the Two People in it! As a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, I have worked with couples for over 40 years to restore their marriage & to meet their own individual needs. Trauma, infidelity, arguments, in-laws, parenting, depression, grief, chronic illness, substance abuse takes its toll. With a focused interview of the couple & each spouse I quickly analyze and discover where the Real Issues lie. With a collaborative approach, we can unwind years of wounds & scars and begin to rebuild a mutually secure and satisfying relationship for you.
(571) 497-4960 View (571) 497-4960
Photo of Amir Cotton, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amir Cotton
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Charlottesville, VA 22901
Hello there,My name is Amir Cotton, and I’m one of the counselors at Breakthrough Counselling LLC. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Licensed Substance Abuse Treatment Practitioner in the state of Virginia. I am also a National Certified Counselor, a Certified Clinical Mental Counselor, and a Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor. I also have a Master’s Degree in Professional Counseling and over 12 years of experience working in the mental health field. I have experience treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, addiction, bipolar, and adjustment disorders.
Hello there,My name is Amir Cotton, and I’m one of the counselors at Breakthrough Counselling LLC. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Licensed Substance Abuse Treatment Practitioner in the state of Virginia. I am also a National Certified Counselor, a Certified Clinical Mental Counselor, and a Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor. I also have a Master’s Degree in Professional Counseling and over 12 years of experience working in the mental health field. I have experience treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, addiction, bipolar, and adjustment disorders.
(804) 391-7124 View (804) 391-7124
Photo of Elizabeth S Wyman - Magnolia Healing Hearts Counseling Center LLC, MSPSYCH, MSCMHC, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Magnolia Healing Hearts Counseling Center LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSPSYCH, MSCMHC, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Manassas, VA 20112
We now are entering life after the pandemic. Trying to navigate can be hard at times. Elizabeth helps you navigate through all the stresses and anxieties of life. Elizabeth specializes in anxiety, depression, bipolar, substance abuse, grief and loss and many more mental health issues. Elizabeth brings to the table years of experience working with individuals who have difficulties with their mental health.
We now are entering life after the pandemic. Trying to navigate can be hard at times. Elizabeth helps you navigate through all the stresses and anxieties of life. Elizabeth specializes in anxiety, depression, bipolar, substance abuse, grief and loss and many more mental health issues. Elizabeth brings to the table years of experience working with individuals who have difficulties with their mental health.
(571) 470-6593 View (571) 470-6593
Photo of Ashlea Hopkins, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ashlea Hopkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Warrenton, VA 20187
I am qualified to treat depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, fear, and aggression among other ailments.
CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. Video Counseling! Do you feel overwhelmed or stressed? Do you feel sad or alone? Therapy can help. Finding a therapist you can talk can bring hope. Are you an athlete that needs help improving performance, managing athletic stress, or overcoming fear? I specialize in working with athletes and athletic organizations. I offer on site and online services so that it fits into your busy practice and competition schedule. You don't have to figure it out alone. I will be accepting the listed insurances in April 2022.
I am qualified to treat depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, fear, and aggression among other ailments.
CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. Video Counseling! Do you feel overwhelmed or stressed? Do you feel sad or alone? Therapy can help. Finding a therapist you can talk can bring hope. Are you an athlete that needs help improving performance, managing athletic stress, or overcoming fear? I specialize in working with athletes and athletic organizations. I offer on site and online services so that it fits into your busy practice and competition schedule. You don't have to figure it out alone. I will be accepting the listed insurances in April 2022.
(540) 217-4270 View (540) 217-4270
Photo of Valeria Cuzzi, LPCr, Pre-Licensed Professional
Valeria Cuzzi
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPCr
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030
I apply cognitive-behavioral therapy, EMDR, positive psychology, and psychodynamic approaches in English and Spanish to work with trauma disorders, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders, relationship issues, self-esteem, and phase-of-life problems.
I firmly advocate that treatment isn't a one-size-fits-all solution; it must be customized for each individual's unique needs. Establishing genuine trust and creating a safe space are paramount for clients seeking to enhance their well-being. My focus is on fostering room for vulnerability, genuineness, and empathy. Life brings both rewards and challenges that can be overwhelming. Together, we can navigate the curveballs, develop coping skills, heal past traumas, and build healthier patterns to face any obstacle.
I apply cognitive-behavioral therapy, EMDR, positive psychology, and psychodynamic approaches in English and Spanish to work with trauma disorders, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders, relationship issues, self-esteem, and phase-of-life problems.
I firmly advocate that treatment isn't a one-size-fits-all solution; it must be customized for each individual's unique needs. Establishing genuine trust and creating a safe space are paramount for clients seeking to enhance their well-being. My focus is on fostering room for vulnerability, genuineness, and empathy. Life brings both rewards and challenges that can be overwhelming. Together, we can navigate the curveballs, develop coping skills, heal past traumas, and build healthier patterns to face any obstacle.
(571) 497-4277 View (571) 497-4277
Photo of Teri Bistarkey, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Teri Bistarkey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Herndon, VA 20171
I have many years of experience working with people with depression and anxiety as well as bipolar and schizophrenia.
Feeling like you can't quite keep it together? Sometimes we get overwhelmed with the stresses in life and need help sorting them out. Maybe you've just hit a low point or feeling overly worried and anxious. Talking to a therapist has helped many people who are feeling the same way. The last two years have been more than difficult, and people are struggling. I help people figure out what's working well for them and what's not. Then we explore together the many strengths and skills you already have and can use to overcome the problems life throws at us.
I have many years of experience working with people with depression and anxiety as well as bipolar and schizophrenia.
Feeling like you can't quite keep it together? Sometimes we get overwhelmed with the stresses in life and need help sorting them out. Maybe you've just hit a low point or feeling overly worried and anxious. Talking to a therapist has helped many people who are feeling the same way. The last two years have been more than difficult, and people are struggling. I help people figure out what's working well for them and what's not. Then we explore together the many strengths and skills you already have and can use to overcome the problems life throws at us.
(434) 813-6641 View (434) 813-6641
Photo of Domoniquie Ginyard, MSW, LCSW-S
Domoniquie Ginyard
Supervisee in Clinical Social Work, MSW, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fredericksburg, VA 22406  (Online Only)
My main focuses include crisis work, substance use dependence, depression and anxiety, bipolar disorder, grief and loss, chronic illness, intimate partner violence, and relationship issues.
Hello! I am Domoniquie. I understand that the therapeutic process is a powerful tool for clients to grow and develop into healthier individuals and/or couples. My clinical experience settings include private practice, mental/behavioral health, crisis stabilization, and social work services.
My main focuses include crisis work, substance use dependence, depression and anxiety, bipolar disorder, grief and loss, chronic illness, intimate partner violence, and relationship issues.
Hello! I am Domoniquie. I understand that the therapeutic process is a powerful tool for clients to grow and develop into healthier individuals and/or couples. My clinical experience settings include private practice, mental/behavioral health, crisis stabilization, and social work services.
(540) 306-5907 View (540) 306-5907
Photo of Bridget Kanz, CP, Psychologist
Bridget Kanz
Psychologist, CP
Verified Verified
Oakton, VA 22124
My name is Bridget Kanz and I am a licensed clinical psychologist. I believe that every person has the desire and capacity to live a full and healthy life. My goal as a therapist is to provide you with the support and skills needed to realize your potential. I have worked with a wide variety of clients throughout my career and am very comfortable treating many conditions including anxiety/panic, PTSD, bipolar, schizophrenia, schizoaffective, substance use, personality disorders, and depression.
My name is Bridget Kanz and I am a licensed clinical psychologist. I believe that every person has the desire and capacity to live a full and healthy life. My goal as a therapist is to provide you with the support and skills needed to realize your potential. I have worked with a wide variety of clients throughout my career and am very comfortable treating many conditions including anxiety/panic, PTSD, bipolar, schizophrenia, schizoaffective, substance use, personality disorders, and depression.
(571) 605-6421 View (571) 605-6421
Photo of Alicia Margarita Funes, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alicia Margarita Funes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Reston, VA 20190
I specialize in treating Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, Depression, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
Therapy is a method of improving daily functioning by acquiring self-motivation through gaining insight, establishing boundaries, and embracing positive and challenging emotional states. You will learn to trust yourself, enhance your self-compassion, recognize your strengths, and discover the gifts with which you have been blessed. I have extensive experience working with individuals of all ages, including children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I have worked in diverse settings, including inpatient and outpatient care, home-based counseling, residential treatment centers, hospitals, private practice, and schools.
I specialize in treating Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, Depression, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
Therapy is a method of improving daily functioning by acquiring self-motivation through gaining insight, establishing boundaries, and embracing positive and challenging emotional states. You will learn to trust yourself, enhance your self-compassion, recognize your strengths, and discover the gifts with which you have been blessed. I have extensive experience working with individuals of all ages, including children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I have worked in diverse settings, including inpatient and outpatient care, home-based counseling, residential treatment centers, hospitals, private practice, and schools.
(571) 520-4674 View (571) 520-4674

See more therapy options for Orange

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.