Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Menasha, WI

Photo of Kathi Hennessey, LICSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kathi Hennessey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
Menasha, WI 54952
Seeing clients in person in Menasha WI only. All other clients are seen via teletherapy. Many people need help through the rough patches in life, while others struggle every day with a mental illness. With empathy and acceptance, I will meet you at your current level of distress, addressing your concerns, and taking into account biopsychosocial factors contributing to your discomfort. Specialties include ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar, Blended Families, Couples, Depression, Divorce, Family Conflict, Mood Disorders, Parenting, and Work/Career Stress. I work with adults, elders, and couples.
Seeing clients in person in Menasha WI only. All other clients are seen via teletherapy. Many people need help through the rough patches in life, while others struggle every day with a mental illness. With empathy and acceptance, I will meet you at your current level of distress, addressing your concerns, and taking into account biopsychosocial factors contributing to your discomfort. Specialties include ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar, Blended Families, Couples, Depression, Divorce, Family Conflict, Mood Disorders, Parenting, and Work/Career Stress. I work with adults, elders, and couples.
(508) 290-4982 View (508) 290-4982
Photo of Jaimie Hauch - West Grove Clinic, SC
West Grove Clinic, SC
Verified Verified
Menasha, WI 54952
Additionally, our knowledgeable prescribers are able to assist with mental health concerns such as depression, anxiety, bipolar, ADHD, etc.
West Grove Clinic (WGC) offers our patients comprehensive treatment. We provide you a knowledgeable, skilled, and compassionate treatment team that works together to help provide you the best care. Additionally we do not believe in a 'cookie cutter' approach. We know everyone is unique and believe in individualized treatment. At this site we offer the following services: individual counseling and medication management.
Additionally, our knowledgeable prescribers are able to assist with mental health concerns such as depression, anxiety, bipolar, ADHD, etc.
West Grove Clinic (WGC) offers our patients comprehensive treatment. We provide you a knowledgeable, skilled, and compassionate treatment team that works together to help provide you the best care. Additionally we do not believe in a 'cookie cutter' approach. We know everyone is unique and believe in individualized treatment. At this site we offer the following services: individual counseling and medication management.
(920) 259-2810 View (920) 259-2810
Photo of Rosangela B. Berbert - Samaritan, Inc, MSE, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Samaritan, Inc
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSE, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Menasha, WI 54952
My name is Rosangela Berbert, I'm the executive director at Samaritan Counseling Center of the Fox Valley, doing business as Samaritan, Inc. At our center we believe that people seek therapy when they figure that they no longer can or want to struggle alone to achieve the changes they need to live happier and satisfying lives. We help people connect mind and spirit so that they can find deep meaning in their lives and heal from emotional wounds. We have a team of qualified and well-trained counselors able to address a variety of issues, working with people of all ages.
My name is Rosangela Berbert, I'm the executive director at Samaritan Counseling Center of the Fox Valley, doing business as Samaritan, Inc. At our center we believe that people seek therapy when they figure that they no longer can or want to struggle alone to achieve the changes they need to live happier and satisfying lives. We help people connect mind and spirit so that they can find deep meaning in their lives and heal from emotional wounds. We have a team of qualified and well-trained counselors able to address a variety of issues, working with people of all ages.
(920) 522-0733 x112 View (920) 522-0733 x112
Photo of Carey A Molinski, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Carey A Molinski
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Menasha, WI 54952
Carey has a rich history of providing psychotherapy services with diverse populations. She is direct yet relatable, skilled yet casual. She has experience in crisis intervention and trauma and is trained in EMDR and TF-CBT. She has helped many clients with eclectic concerns such as depression, anxiety, self-harm, suicidal ideation, oppositional behaviors, conduct disorders, Autism Spectrum, schizophrenia and other psychoses, and relationship concerns. Viewing each therapeutic relationship as a partnership, Carey diligently works to meet clients where they’re at, without judgment, helping them to heal and achieve individual goals.
Carey has a rich history of providing psychotherapy services with diverse populations. She is direct yet relatable, skilled yet casual. She has experience in crisis intervention and trauma and is trained in EMDR and TF-CBT. She has helped many clients with eclectic concerns such as depression, anxiety, self-harm, suicidal ideation, oppositional behaviors, conduct disorders, Autism Spectrum, schizophrenia and other psychoses, and relationship concerns. Viewing each therapeutic relationship as a partnership, Carey diligently works to meet clients where they’re at, without judgment, helping them to heal and achieve individual goals.
(920) 477-0938 View (920) 477-0938
Photo of Teresa Gross, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Teresa Gross
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Menasha, WI 54952
Our foundation, which includes our childhood and the dynamics of our family, directly impacts our thoughts about ourselves and others. It affects our behaviors and relationships. Most of my clients have some sort of childhood trauma that is affecting their ability to move in a peaceful, productive direction. Understanding how the brain is affected, and how to incorporate positive thoughts and behaviors, can change a person's life. It takes courage to share our inner thoughts and experiences. I appreciate the strength in my clients and build on these, showing them they have what it takes to make positive changes.
Our foundation, which includes our childhood and the dynamics of our family, directly impacts our thoughts about ourselves and others. It affects our behaviors and relationships. Most of my clients have some sort of childhood trauma that is affecting their ability to move in a peaceful, productive direction. Understanding how the brain is affected, and how to incorporate positive thoughts and behaviors, can change a person's life. It takes courage to share our inner thoughts and experiences. I appreciate the strength in my clients and build on these, showing them they have what it takes to make positive changes.
(920) 944-6559 View (920) 944-6559
Photo of Valerie A Hamilton - Valerie Hamilton, Psychotherapist , LCSW, SAP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Valerie Hamilton, Psychotherapist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Menasha, WI 54952
Waitlist for new clients
My ideal client would be someone looking for help to tap into their personal inner strengths, and by maximizing those strengths, will discover peace, balance and self acceptance, in their everyday life. My ideal client would live a life free from fear, worry, and insecurity.
My ideal client would be someone looking for help to tap into their personal inner strengths, and by maximizing those strengths, will discover peace, balance and self acceptance, in their everyday life. My ideal client would live a life free from fear, worry, and insecurity.
(920) 821-1473 View (920) 821-1473
Photo of Debra Lynne, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Debra Lynne
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Menasha, WI 54952
I offer a safe, supportive environment and have found empathy, understanding and humor are important in building a therapeutic alliance. My abilities are well suited to people with a history of trauma and who are intuitive and creative. Whether you're looking for short term therapy or a deeper process, my skill level applies to both. Each person is unique and I anticipate and enjoy building a relationship that assumes collaboration. I then work with them toward activating their own healing potential, no matter the age. I work well with individuals who have had treatment failures in the past.
I offer a safe, supportive environment and have found empathy, understanding and humor are important in building a therapeutic alliance. My abilities are well suited to people with a history of trauma and who are intuitive and creative. Whether you're looking for short term therapy or a deeper process, my skill level applies to both. Each person is unique and I anticipate and enjoy building a relationship that assumes collaboration. I then work with them toward activating their own healing potential, no matter the age. I work well with individuals who have had treatment failures in the past.
(940) 641-8926 View (940) 641-8926
Photo of Sara L Devine, MT-BC, LCSW, ICGC-II, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sara L Devine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MT-BC, LCSW, ICGC-II
Verified Verified
Menasha, WI 54952
My ideal client is someone who is interested in helping themselves and creating change in their life. At Expressive Therapies, we work with the creative arts (music and art therapies) along with mental health counseling to provide a holistic approach unique to each individual. Sara is also a qualified gambling treatment provider, for gambler and their loved ones.
My ideal client is someone who is interested in helping themselves and creating change in their life. At Expressive Therapies, we work with the creative arts (music and art therapies) along with mental health counseling to provide a holistic approach unique to each individual. Sara is also a qualified gambling treatment provider, for gambler and their loved ones.
(920) 843-9344 View (920) 843-9344
Photo of Alissa Lapp, MA, LPC, CCTP-II, Counselor
Alissa Lapp
Counselor, MA, LPC, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
Menasha, WI 54952
Waitlist for new clients
I'd love to help you find hope and meaning in your life. I have experience working with people who struggle with depression, anxiety, grief, suicidal thoughts, paranoia, major mental health disorders, and those in crisis. I value your unique story which provides a starting point to understanding where you were, where you are, and where you are going. I incorporate Christian values, psychology, and compassion while challenging you to heal and grow along your personal journey. I value the opportunity to walk alongside as you let go of what holds you back so that you can reach your greatest potential.
I'd love to help you find hope and meaning in your life. I have experience working with people who struggle with depression, anxiety, grief, suicidal thoughts, paranoia, major mental health disorders, and those in crisis. I value your unique story which provides a starting point to understanding where you were, where you are, and where you are going. I incorporate Christian values, psychology, and compassion while challenging you to heal and grow along your personal journey. I value the opportunity to walk alongside as you let go of what holds you back so that you can reach your greatest potential.
(920) 598-5329 View (920) 598-5329
Photo of Michael Noll - Michael Noll Counseling, LLC, LPC, CSAC, LCSW, Counselor
Michael Noll Counseling, LLC
Counselor, LPC, CSAC, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Menasha, WI 54952
Not accepting new clients
Does taking a break mean locking yourself in the house after a long day/week just to binge-watch Netflix, Hulu, YouTube or scroll Facebook, Instagram or TikTok? Do social situations leave you feeling “on-guard” or “out of place”? Feeling disconnected from friends, family, co-workers or even yourself? Pain (emotional, physical or psychological) is the one constant you count on each and every day. Your past continues to trigger sadness or anger, or you may not remember it at all. We help answer the questions "Where do I want to go in life?" - "Who do I want to go there with?"
Does taking a break mean locking yourself in the house after a long day/week just to binge-watch Netflix, Hulu, YouTube or scroll Facebook, Instagram or TikTok? Do social situations leave you feeling “on-guard” or “out of place”? Feeling disconnected from friends, family, co-workers or even yourself? Pain (emotional, physical or psychological) is the one constant you count on each and every day. Your past continues to trigger sadness or anger, or you may not remember it at all. We help answer the questions "Where do I want to go in life?" - "Who do I want to go there with?"
(920) 524-4748 View (920) 524-4748

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Jennifer L Srnka, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer L Srnka
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Appleton, WI 54911
To those who are suffering with anxiety, depression, PTSD, Bipolar or a traumatic experience, I ask these questions: Do you have nightmares, headaches, stress reactions, flash backs? I can help! These behaviors and situations can happen to ANYONE, regardless of race, age, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status and can be in good or bad relationships .
Trauma is any adverse experience that causes extreme emotional reaction: nightmares, flashbacks, anxiety etc. When meeting with me many reach their destination feeling guilty for their response to their unique experience — because its “less than” others. As we begin the journey to health and recovery, I assure all that their individual experience is different and unique. Our goal is to get to the point where you know that your feelings/emotions are not better or worse than another’s, as all individuals have a right to their feelings. No trauma is better, worse, harder or easier than another because it depends on how we react.
To those who are suffering with anxiety, depression, PTSD, Bipolar or a traumatic experience, I ask these questions: Do you have nightmares, headaches, stress reactions, flash backs? I can help! These behaviors and situations can happen to ANYONE, regardless of race, age, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status and can be in good or bad relationships .
Trauma is any adverse experience that causes extreme emotional reaction: nightmares, flashbacks, anxiety etc. When meeting with me many reach their destination feeling guilty for their response to their unique experience — because its “less than” others. As we begin the journey to health and recovery, I assure all that their individual experience is different and unique. Our goal is to get to the point where you know that your feelings/emotions are not better or worse than another’s, as all individuals have a right to their feelings. No trauma is better, worse, harder or easier than another because it depends on how we react.
(920) 521-3445 View (920) 521-3445
Photo of James Jozwiak, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
James Jozwiak
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Appleton, WI 54913
I enjoy working with individuals ages 14 through adulthood to address a variety of life’s issues such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, acute trauma, chronic trauma and complex trauma as well as issues such as perfectionism, guilt and shame, building assertiveness, setting boundaries, and deconstructing inaccurate core beliefs. I have a particular interest in working with individuals who have experienced one or more forms of trauma and assisting them with reducing the negative impacts of trauma-related symptoms on their daily life.
I enjoy working with individuals ages 14 through adulthood to address a variety of life’s issues such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, acute trauma, chronic trauma and complex trauma as well as issues such as perfectionism, guilt and shame, building assertiveness, setting boundaries, and deconstructing inaccurate core beliefs. I have a particular interest in working with individuals who have experienced one or more forms of trauma and assisting them with reducing the negative impacts of trauma-related symptoms on their daily life.
(920) 667-0663 View (920) 667-0663
Photo of Bryan Jonet, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bryan Jonet
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Appleton, WI 54913
I have done directly or am familiar with: vocational counseling (21 years doing that); aging issues; anger management; bipolar d/o; chronic pain issues; couples counseling; limited dissociative d/o work; family caregiving/stress issues; single parent family therapy; job stress/EAP; learni.
I begin therapy utilizing a cognitive behavioral approach. I sincerely believe that when people are hurting, they are not aware of the interplay between thoughts, feelings and behaviors. I feel many western therapy counseling approaches are too cognitively oriented and only a fraction of patients benefit from this approach. Counseling should be engaging, challenging and thought/feeling provoking. Counseling professionals should be knowledgeable and willing to make referrals and point out community resources. Finally, counseling professionals should not use jargon/terminology that is unfamiliar to the patient. Communication with the
I have done directly or am familiar with: vocational counseling (21 years doing that); aging issues; anger management; bipolar d/o; chronic pain issues; couples counseling; limited dissociative d/o work; family caregiving/stress issues; single parent family therapy; job stress/EAP; learni.
I begin therapy utilizing a cognitive behavioral approach. I sincerely believe that when people are hurting, they are not aware of the interplay between thoughts, feelings and behaviors. I feel many western therapy counseling approaches are too cognitively oriented and only a fraction of patients benefit from this approach. Counseling should be engaging, challenging and thought/feeling provoking. Counseling professionals should be knowledgeable and willing to make referrals and point out community resources. Finally, counseling professionals should not use jargon/terminology that is unfamiliar to the patient. Communication with the
(920) 764-5718 View (920) 764-5718
Photo of Kaitlyn Bork, MSW, APSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kaitlyn Bork
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, APSW
Verified Verified
Appleton, WI 54914
Hi there! My name is Kaitlyn Bork. The first thing that I want to say is welcome to my page! I typically like to tell my clients that I am a human first and focus on building a collaborative relationship together. One of my primary goals in therapy is to create a space where you feel respected and safe to explore different areas to meet your goals.
Hi there! My name is Kaitlyn Bork. The first thing that I want to say is welcome to my page! I typically like to tell my clients that I am a human first and focus on building a collaborative relationship together. One of my primary goals in therapy is to create a space where you feel respected and safe to explore different areas to meet your goals.
(920) 696-9171 View (920) 696-9171
Photo of Gloria Jean Bannasch, MEd, LPC, NCC, BCC, BC-TMH, Licensed Professional Counselor
Gloria Jean Bannasch
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC, BCC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
Appleton, WI 54914
By the time most couples seek therapy, the relationship has been troubled for 6 years! If you and your partner are experiencing problems, call today; to get your relationship out of the ditch and on to the road again quickly, The Art and Science of Love Workshop for Couples is recommended for couples of all types. I am the only Certified Gottman Therapist to present this workshop in Wisconsin and the first Certified Gottman Therapist in Wisconsin. To sign up for one of my workshops, go to https://www.couplesworkshopswi.com. I also mentor therapists and present Level 1 Gottman Training via webinar.
By the time most couples seek therapy, the relationship has been troubled for 6 years! If you and your partner are experiencing problems, call today; to get your relationship out of the ditch and on to the road again quickly, The Art and Science of Love Workshop for Couples is recommended for couples of all types. I am the only Certified Gottman Therapist to present this workshop in Wisconsin and the first Certified Gottman Therapist in Wisconsin. To sign up for one of my workshops, go to https://www.couplesworkshopswi.com. I also mentor therapists and present Level 1 Gottman Training via webinar.
(920) 645-2749 x6617 View (920) 645-2749 x6617
Photo of Abdulla A Mogherbi - Abdulla Mogherbi, MSE, LPC, MSE, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Abdulla Mogherbi, MSE, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSE, LPC
Verified Verified
Appleton, WI 54911
I work with children, adolescents and adults. Ages 6+ with issues include Anxiety, Panics, Depression, ADD/ADHD, ODD, Anger, Explosive Anger, OCD, Tics, Tourettes, Autism, sleep difficulties, pain, Fibromyalgia, migraines, GI issues, IBS, Brain Gut, CVS, Hypertension. I work with clients according their individual and unique needs using the therapeutic approaches that fits those needs. I highly respect their values and beliefs. I teach and train them to learn good coping skills to manage and have control over their difficulties.
I work with children, adolescents and adults. Ages 6+ with issues include Anxiety, Panics, Depression, ADD/ADHD, ODD, Anger, Explosive Anger, OCD, Tics, Tourettes, Autism, sleep difficulties, pain, Fibromyalgia, migraines, GI issues, IBS, Brain Gut, CVS, Hypertension. I work with clients according their individual and unique needs using the therapeutic approaches that fits those needs. I highly respect their values and beliefs. I teach and train them to learn good coping skills to manage and have control over their difficulties.
(920) 944-6097 View (920) 944-6097
Photo of Amanda Line, MAC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amanda Line
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAC, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Neenah, WI 54956  (Online Only)
It's time to change but you’re not sure where to start. Dealing with the mood swings, sadness, and fear have become overwhelming but it’s hard to ask for help. Maybe you or someone in your family has experienced abuse or trauma and is scared or embarrassed to talk about it. It feels like you’ve tried everything to help yourself or teen and you’re worried the situation will get worse. The emotional roller coaster needs to stop but you don’t know where the controls are anymore. By reading this, you are already starting a path to change. There is no shame is asking for help.
It's time to change but you’re not sure where to start. Dealing with the mood swings, sadness, and fear have become overwhelming but it’s hard to ask for help. Maybe you or someone in your family has experienced abuse or trauma and is scared or embarrassed to talk about it. It feels like you’ve tried everything to help yourself or teen and you’re worried the situation will get worse. The emotional roller coaster needs to stop but you don’t know where the controls are anymore. By reading this, you are already starting a path to change. There is no shame is asking for help.
(920) 247-2528 View (920) 247-2528
Photo of Steven D Fricke, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Steven D Fricke
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Appleton, WI 54915
Are you a neurodivergent person or have a child/children needing help? Did you grow up with family members with mental illness? Relationship issues? Would you like to use an amazing modern technique called Brain Spotting to heal from your trauma? These all fall within my specialty, as does helping those with Borderline Personality Disorder, Anxiety, and Depression. I meet people where they are and adapt to their needs. My patients range in age from 5 to 85, and describe me as kind, funny, and knowledgeable.
Are you a neurodivergent person or have a child/children needing help? Did you grow up with family members with mental illness? Relationship issues? Would you like to use an amazing modern technique called Brain Spotting to heal from your trauma? These all fall within my specialty, as does helping those with Borderline Personality Disorder, Anxiety, and Depression. I meet people where they are and adapt to their needs. My patients range in age from 5 to 85, and describe me as kind, funny, and knowledgeable.
(920) 477-0309 View (920) 477-0309
Photo of Ashley Matthies, LPC-IT, SAC, Counselor
Ashley Matthies
Counselor, LPC-IT, SAC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Neenah, WI 54956
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Mental Health Counselor-In Training, a Substance Abuse Counselor and a Nationally Certified Counselor. Over the last 3 years, I have worked in a therapeutic setting, as an intern and a therapist in training, helping clients discover what comes next in their journey. I view the client as the “expert” and work in a collaborative, strength-based approach to assist the client in discovering what the next chapter may hold. In practicing my own self-care, I enjoy spending time with my husband, our daughter, and our three dogs. I also enjoy listening to music, watching movies, and traveling the world.
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Mental Health Counselor-In Training, a Substance Abuse Counselor and a Nationally Certified Counselor. Over the last 3 years, I have worked in a therapeutic setting, as an intern and a therapist in training, helping clients discover what comes next in their journey. I view the client as the “expert” and work in a collaborative, strength-based approach to assist the client in discovering what the next chapter may hold. In practicing my own self-care, I enjoy spending time with my husband, our daughter, and our three dogs. I also enjoy listening to music, watching movies, and traveling the world.
(920) 677-3608 View (920) 677-3608
Photo of Michael Anderson, MS, LCSW, LPC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michael Anderson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LCSW, LPC
Verified Verified
Appleton, WI 54914
I have been doing individual, family and couples therapy for 38 years. I am an associate of the American Board of Medical Psychotherapists and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Professional Counselor. My graduate degree is in Counseling from the University of Wisconsin with undergraduate degrees in Psychology and Philosophy. My approach is eclectic focusing on cognitive behavioral, existential and problem solving therapy. I has been trained in transactional analysis and enjoy working with the Christian and spiritual perspective. I have a Lay Ministry certificate in Lutheran studies. I have studied eastern religion, philosophy, Yoga, Judeo-Christian ministry, and the paranormal.
I have been doing individual, family and couples therapy for 38 years. I am an associate of the American Board of Medical Psychotherapists and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Professional Counselor. My graduate degree is in Counseling from the University of Wisconsin with undergraduate degrees in Psychology and Philosophy. My approach is eclectic focusing on cognitive behavioral, existential and problem solving therapy. I has been trained in transactional analysis and enjoy working with the Christian and spiritual perspective. I have a Lay Ministry certificate in Lutheran studies. I have studied eastern religion, philosophy, Yoga, Judeo-Christian ministry, and the paranormal.
(920) 482-6294 View (920) 482-6294

See more therapy options for Menasha

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.