Photo of Emine Atasoy, Psychologist in Queensland
Emine Atasoy
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Moorooka, QLD 4105
I have training and experience, along with a keen interest in child and adolescent mental health, autism, ADHD, AuDHD, anxiety, OCD, depression, disordered eating, bipolar affective disorder, early psychosis, trauma/PTSD, family/parenting. I am available for appointments via telehealth Australia wide, and face-to-face in Moorooka QLD, with current appointment availability. Please visit my website for further information: www.littlepsychlane.com.au
I have training and experience, along with a keen interest in child and adolescent mental health, autism, ADHD, AuDHD, anxiety, OCD, depression, disordered eating, bipolar affective disorder, early psychosis, trauma/PTSD, family/parenting. I am available for appointments via telehealth Australia wide, and face-to-face in Moorooka QLD, with current appointment availability. Please visit my website for further information: www.littlepsychlane.com.au
(07) 2100 4332 View (07) 2100 4332
Photo of David Hennessy, Psychologist in Queensland
David Hennessy
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Varsity Lakes, QLD 4227
David is experienced working psychotherapeutically in the areas of: Mood and anxiety disorders, Phobias, Substance use and addiction, Obsessions and/or compulsions, Adult autism spectrum disorder, Trauma, Persistent pain, Physical/medical health issues, Schizophrenia and bipolar affective disorder, Grief and loss, and Psychological assessment and reporting.
I am humbled and privileged to accompany clients on a journey through private perceptions, memories, thoughts, beliefs, hopes, dreams, and fears while we work together on building understanding, resilience, and resourcefulness in the private storm of their internal lives. Mental health struggles are mostly invisible, and the visible parts are rarely consistent with the internal struggle. Clinical & General Psychology - Member of the Australian Psychological Society & Fellow of the College of Clinical Psychology- NDIS Registered- Complex Mental Health Presentations-Availability.
David is experienced working psychotherapeutically in the areas of: Mood and anxiety disorders, Phobias, Substance use and addiction, Obsessions and/or compulsions, Adult autism spectrum disorder, Trauma, Persistent pain, Physical/medical health issues, Schizophrenia and bipolar affective disorder, Grief and loss, and Psychological assessment and reporting.
I am humbled and privileged to accompany clients on a journey through private perceptions, memories, thoughts, beliefs, hopes, dreams, and fears while we work together on building understanding, resilience, and resourcefulness in the private storm of their internal lives. Mental health struggles are mostly invisible, and the visible parts are rarely consistent with the internal struggle. Clinical & General Psychology - Member of the Australian Psychological Society & Fellow of the College of Clinical Psychology- NDIS Registered- Complex Mental Health Presentations-Availability.
(07) 4519 1064 View (07) 4519 1064
Photo of Alex Hall, Psychologist in Queensland
Alex Hall
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
New Farm, QLD 4005
Alex is particularly passionate about working with perinatal mental health, chronic pain, women's health conditions, postnatal psychosis, grief & loss, eating disorders, personality vulnerabilities, psychosis, bipolar and other mood disorders, and perfectionism.
Alex Hall has a friendly, relaxed style and has experience with more complex presentations. She values taking a holistic approach, drawing from multiple evidence-based therapies, and is neuroaffirming, trauma-informed, and LGBTQAI+ inclusive.
Alex is particularly passionate about working with perinatal mental health, chronic pain, women's health conditions, postnatal psychosis, grief & loss, eating disorders, personality vulnerabilities, psychosis, bipolar and other mood disorders, and perfectionism.
Alex Hall has a friendly, relaxed style and has experience with more complex presentations. She values taking a holistic approach, drawing from multiple evidence-based therapies, and is neuroaffirming, trauma-informed, and LGBTQAI+ inclusive.
(07) 2100 4008 View (07) 2100 4008
Photo of Wisemind & Body, Psychologist in Queensland
Wisemind & Body
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Southport, QLD 4215
Areas of Interest include: Mood Disorders (Depression, Bipolar Disorder), Anxiety Disorder (Generalised, Panic, Agoraphobia, Phobias); Traumas and posttraumatic stress, Adjustment Disorder Personality Disorders, Eating Disorders Gender confirmation, Body image, Health Psychology, life-cycle transition, identity issues Chronic pain, CALD, Education and more!.
Wisemind & Body Clinicians work with children, adolescents, adults, families and organisations across various presentations. We aim to create a safe space for each individual and assist them through a warm, empathetic, and Trauma-informed approach while building and maintaining a strong therapeutic alliance with each of our clients. We ensure that each client's presentation is entailed towards them and provide various evidence-based interventions with achievable treatment plans to have the best possible outcomes for clients for any presentation, concerns, or goals they may have. Call us now on or email us!
Areas of Interest include: Mood Disorders (Depression, Bipolar Disorder), Anxiety Disorder (Generalised, Panic, Agoraphobia, Phobias); Traumas and posttraumatic stress, Adjustment Disorder Personality Disorders, Eating Disorders Gender confirmation, Body image, Health Psychology, life-cycle transition, identity issues Chronic pain, CALD, Education and more!.
Wisemind & Body Clinicians work with children, adolescents, adults, families and organisations across various presentations. We aim to create a safe space for each individual and assist them through a warm, empathetic, and Trauma-informed approach while building and maintaining a strong therapeutic alliance with each of our clients. We ensure that each client's presentation is entailed towards them and provide various evidence-based interventions with achievable treatment plans to have the best possible outcomes for clients for any presentation, concerns, or goals they may have. Call us now on or email us!
(07) 2801 6810 View (07) 2801 6810
Photo of Dr Nicole Hess, Psychologist in Queensland
Dr Nicole Hess
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Milton, QLD 4064
Therapies include; Interpersonal Social Rhythm's Therapy (Bipolar Disorder), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), Schema Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR), Play Therapy, WestMead Feelings Program (emotional awareness for children with Autism).
Dr Nicole is both founder and director of A to Z Psychology and A to Z Learning Pathways. Nicole aims to empower her clients to explore, unlock, and build on their innate capacity for growth and development. The mantra of A to Z Learning Pathways and A to Z psychology of , "Enhancing minds", is applied across all age groups. The letters "A to Z" represent the unique nature and needs of each individual client. Nicole works with each client to formulate treatment plans, assessment protocols, and advocacy service (usually for educational support) that best meet individual needs. Nicole works with children, teens,and older individuals.
Therapies include; Interpersonal Social Rhythm's Therapy (Bipolar Disorder), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), Schema Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR), Play Therapy, WestMead Feelings Program (emotional awareness for children with Autism).
Dr Nicole is both founder and director of A to Z Psychology and A to Z Learning Pathways. Nicole aims to empower her clients to explore, unlock, and build on their innate capacity for growth and development. The mantra of A to Z Learning Pathways and A to Z psychology of , "Enhancing minds", is applied across all age groups. The letters "A to Z" represent the unique nature and needs of each individual client. Nicole works with each client to formulate treatment plans, assessment protocols, and advocacy service (usually for educational support) that best meet individual needs. Nicole works with children, teens,and older individuals.
(07) 2100 4824 View (07) 2100 4824
Photo of Linda van Leeuwen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Queensland
Linda van Leeuwen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Wellington Point, QLD 4160  (Online Only)
You don't always have to see a psychologist for your mental health. As an EMDR Therapist and Accredited Mental Health Social Worker my therapy can be funded by Medicare, NDIS, Victim Assist, Workcover QLD, National Redress Scheme etc. My areas of expertise are depression, anxiety, trauma ( (C)PTSD), acute and chronic stress, grief and loss, infertility, Neurodivergence (ASD, ADHD), emotion regulation problems and parenting issues. I work with all adults on these difficulties regardless of age, gender and cultural background. I also provide support for people who have a diagnosis of Psychosis, Bipolar Disorder, BPD, addictions etc.
You don't always have to see a psychologist for your mental health. As an EMDR Therapist and Accredited Mental Health Social Worker my therapy can be funded by Medicare, NDIS, Victim Assist, Workcover QLD, National Redress Scheme etc. My areas of expertise are depression, anxiety, trauma ( (C)PTSD), acute and chronic stress, grief and loss, infertility, Neurodivergence (ASD, ADHD), emotion regulation problems and parenting issues. I work with all adults on these difficulties regardless of age, gender and cultural background. I also provide support for people who have a diagnosis of Psychosis, Bipolar Disorder, BPD, addictions etc.
(07) 3186 8503 View (07) 3186 8503
Photo of Dianne Wheare, Psychologist in Queensland
Dianne Wheare
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Bowen Hills, QLD 4006
Welcome to Brisbane Mind & Body Clinic. I’m a Registered Psychologist with 20 years’ experience working with adolescents, adults, and families who have presented with mood disorders, anxiety disorders including obsessive-compulsive disorder, relationship breakdown, work conflict, family crisis, trauma, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. I have a special interest in women's health and the interactions between mind and body in disorders such as post-natal depression and anxiety, together with the stress that accompanies major lifestyle transitions.
Welcome to Brisbane Mind & Body Clinic. I’m a Registered Psychologist with 20 years’ experience working with adolescents, adults, and families who have presented with mood disorders, anxiety disorders including obsessive-compulsive disorder, relationship breakdown, work conflict, family crisis, trauma, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. I have a special interest in women's health and the interactions between mind and body in disorders such as post-natal depression and anxiety, together with the stress that accompanies major lifestyle transitions.
(07) 3113 9982 View (07) 3113 9982
Photo of Una L Window, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Queensland
Una L Window
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Annerley, QLD 4103
I want to work along side you to help manage your distress, depression or anxiety due to childhood trauma, disability, parenting issues, PND, BiPolar Affective Disorder, BPD, suicidal thinking or self-harm urges. I understand that often, in order to live a more fulfilling life, certain things may need to be either accepted or changed. It's a collaborative approach. I have a lived experience of a physical disability so know the strengths and challenges this can bring.
I want to work along side you to help manage your distress, depression or anxiety due to childhood trauma, disability, parenting issues, PND, BiPolar Affective Disorder, BPD, suicidal thinking or self-harm urges. I understand that often, in order to live a more fulfilling life, certain things may need to be either accepted or changed. It's a collaborative approach. I have a lived experience of a physical disability so know the strengths and challenges this can bring.
(07) 4243 4713 View (07) 4243 4713
Photo of Robin Fraser, Psychologist in Queensland
Robin Fraser
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA Endorsed
Verified Verified
Taringa, QLD 4068
My areas of expertise include Mood Disorders (Depression & Bipolar), Anxiety Disorders, PTSD & Complex PTSD, Impulse Control orders & Substance Use Disorders, and Personality Disorders.
Hi, I am an experienced Counselling Psychologist and have gained a broad base of knowledge over 13 years of therapy.The vast majority of my experience has been in the private practice field, treating both individuals & couples. Clients generally find me to be a warm and caring psychologist, with a strong desire to understand and help them to move forwards in their life.
My areas of expertise include Mood Disorders (Depression & Bipolar), Anxiety Disorders, PTSD & Complex PTSD, Impulse Control orders & Substance Use Disorders, and Personality Disorders.
Hi, I am an experienced Counselling Psychologist and have gained a broad base of knowledge over 13 years of therapy.The vast majority of my experience has been in the private practice field, treating both individuals & couples. Clients generally find me to be a warm and caring psychologist, with a strong desire to understand and help them to move forwards in their life.
(07) 2100 4097 View (07) 2100 4097
Photo of Helen Elliott, Psychologist in Queensland
Helen Elliott
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Red Hill, QLD 4059
I assist people with a range of well-being concerns including anxiety, depression, trauma, major mental illness diagnoses including bipolar affective disorder and major depression, adjustment /life transition issues, body image/food relationship concerns, grief and loss, peri/post-natal concerns, and stress management.
I tailor clinical psychology therapy to each person's unique needs, looking beyond any diagnosis or 'condition' to see how particular patterns in mind and body may be limiting someone's capacity to live fully.
I assist people with a range of well-being concerns including anxiety, depression, trauma, major mental illness diagnoses including bipolar affective disorder and major depression, adjustment /life transition issues, body image/food relationship concerns, grief and loss, peri/post-natal concerns, and stress management.
I tailor clinical psychology therapy to each person's unique needs, looking beyond any diagnosis or 'condition' to see how particular patterns in mind and body may be limiting someone's capacity to live fully.
(07) 3130 0195 View (07) 3130 0195
Photo of Evoke Counselling and Support Services, Counsellor in Queensland
Evoke Counselling and Support Services
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
Upper Coomera, QLD 4209
Having lived experience of Mental Health, Grief and loss, Bipolar and schizoaffective disorder, and work experience with, Depression PTSD.
Facilitating your journey to help you live the life you want. Encouraging and building you up to bring about change if that is a goal. If you have specific needs, I can help you find and receive the supports you need.
Having lived experience of Mental Health, Grief and loss, Bipolar and schizoaffective disorder, and work experience with, Depression PTSD.
Facilitating your journey to help you live the life you want. Encouraging and building you up to bring about change if that is a goal. If you have specific needs, I can help you find and receive the supports you need.
(07) 2801 5403 View (07) 2801 5403
Photo of Danka Fiedor, Psychologist in Queensland
Danka Fiedor
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Brisbane City, QLD 4000
Danka Fiedor Psychology is here to support individuals and couples by providing face to face & an online service & EMDR for individuals and couples & Attachment Informed & Intergenerational EMDR & Gottman Method & Walk and Talk Therapy & Workers Compensation (SIRA) Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP). Each service is tailored using a strength-based approach to treatment to help you manage any issues you are currently going through including stress, depression, anxiety, grief, PTSD and complex trauma, Bipolar Disorder, Eating Disorders, Adult ADHD, self-esteem and life’s challenges.
Danka Fiedor Psychology is here to support individuals and couples by providing face to face & an online service & EMDR for individuals and couples & Attachment Informed & Intergenerational EMDR & Gottman Method & Walk and Talk Therapy & Workers Compensation (SIRA) Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP). Each service is tailored using a strength-based approach to treatment to help you manage any issues you are currently going through including stress, depression, anxiety, grief, PTSD and complex trauma, Bipolar Disorder, Eating Disorders, Adult ADHD, self-esteem and life’s challenges.
(02) 9100 0959 View (02) 9100 0959
Photo of Dr Jacky Wan - Multilingual Psychologist, Psychologist in Queensland
Dr Jacky Wan - Multilingual Psychologist
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Brisbane City, QLD 4000
I am a clinical psychologist with over a decade of experience in clinical supervisory roles held at both hospitals and private practice. In this time I have specialised in sleep issues, sleep disorders, psychotic spectrum disorders, bipolar disorder and other clinical presentations. I am passionate about providing caring and compassionate psychological support, tailored to my individual clients. This can range from resolving painful history to promoting growth in various stages of their life. Having practiced in both Hong Kong and Australia, I speak fluent English, Cantonese and Mandarin.
I am a clinical psychologist with over a decade of experience in clinical supervisory roles held at both hospitals and private practice. In this time I have specialised in sleep issues, sleep disorders, psychotic spectrum disorders, bipolar disorder and other clinical presentations. I am passionate about providing caring and compassionate psychological support, tailored to my individual clients. This can range from resolving painful history to promoting growth in various stages of their life. Having practiced in both Hong Kong and Australia, I speak fluent English, Cantonese and Mandarin.
(02) 9100 0686 View (02) 9100 0686
Photo of Jen Riches, Psychologist in Queensland
Jen Riches
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Brisbane City, QLD 4000
I am the Clinic Director and Principal Psychologist at Net Psychology. I am also a Board Approved Supervisor to provisional psychologists. I see young people and adults online and in Sydney. I draw from a range of evidence-based therapies including Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT). I have a special interest in neurodiversity, complex trauma and mood disorders.
I am the Clinic Director and Principal Psychologist at Net Psychology. I am also a Board Approved Supervisor to provisional psychologists. I see young people and adults online and in Sydney. I draw from a range of evidence-based therapies including Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT). I have a special interest in neurodiversity, complex trauma and mood disorders.
(08) 7444 4694 View (08) 7444 4694
Photo of Good Minds, Psychologist in Queensland
Good Minds
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Mount Gravatt, QLD 4122  (Online Only)
Are you looking for a psychologist with low gap fees or even Bulk Billing without wait times which could go on for months? Are you dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues (+ others) and have been on a waitlist and it's taking forever to see someone? We're here to assist you by providing Telehealth therapy via online or phone with $0 to low gap fees. Better yet, you can see someone in the team either this week, or next! We have a team of multi-cultural psychologists who can help you deal with a whole range of issues so get in contact with us ASAP!
Are you looking for a psychologist with low gap fees or even Bulk Billing without wait times which could go on for months? Are you dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues (+ others) and have been on a waitlist and it's taking forever to see someone? We're here to assist you by providing Telehealth therapy via online or phone with $0 to low gap fees. Better yet, you can see someone in the team either this week, or next! We have a team of multi-cultural psychologists who can help you deal with a whole range of issues so get in contact with us ASAP!
(07) 2100 4330 View (07) 2100 4330
Photo of Danijela (Dani) Ivanovic-McGillicuddy, Counsellor in Queensland
Danijela (Dani) Ivanovic-McGillicuddy
Counsellor
Verified Verified
Fortitude Valley, QLD 4006  (Online Only)
If You have been looking for an overall Integrative mental health practitioner -You are at the right place. If You are in need of any sort of guidance, a listening ear, or compassion, while You are preparing for life changing steps, without overwhelming you- I can assist You and be next to You while You are taking steps to change your life the way You want to.If You are sick and tired of 'same old same old, let's shake things up once and for all!”Changing the way you eat or live starts with psychology"-You got this.I offer a one-off or multi sessions; Also a 3 Month Health Program with additional $140p/w as a discount for this site.
If You have been looking for an overall Integrative mental health practitioner -You are at the right place. If You are in need of any sort of guidance, a listening ear, or compassion, while You are preparing for life changing steps, without overwhelming you- I can assist You and be next to You while You are taking steps to change your life the way You want to.If You are sick and tired of 'same old same old, let's shake things up once and for all!”Changing the way you eat or live starts with psychology"-You got this.I offer a one-off or multi sessions; Also a 3 Month Health Program with additional $140p/w as a discount for this site.
(07) 3179 6797 View (07) 3179 6797
Photo of Heidi Germann, Psychologist in Queensland
Heidi Germann
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Noosaville, QLD 4566
I am very privileged to work with clients who are interested in their self growth and development. Most of the time when people come to see a psychologist they are wanting to have some change in their life and they need the space to talk through their issues. I love providing a safe, confidential place for people to explore the difficulties and life experiences that have been challenging for them.
I am very privileged to work with clients who are interested in their self growth and development. Most of the time when people come to see a psychologist they are wanting to have some change in their life and they need the space to talk through their issues. I love providing a safe, confidential place for people to explore the difficulties and life experiences that have been challenging for them.
(07) 5241 4817 View (07) 5241 4817
Photo of Lyn Lovering, Psychologist in Queensland
Lyn Lovering
Psychologist, PsyBA Prov
Verified Verified
I am a 61-year-old mature woman with lived experience. I worked with people from different social and ethnic background, across three continents and was inspired to study the motivations behind human behaviours through the lens of the biopsychosocial model. As a provisional psychologist, my therapeutic work is inspired through this model to develop and understand the personal challenges and limitations that people endure. I endeavor to improve self-worth, personal strengths, and adaptability to foster long-term resilience. My strengths are empathy and compassion.
I am a 61-year-old mature woman with lived experience. I worked with people from different social and ethnic background, across three continents and was inspired to study the motivations behind human behaviours through the lens of the biopsychosocial model. As a provisional psychologist, my therapeutic work is inspired through this model to develop and understand the personal challenges and limitations that people endure. I endeavor to improve self-worth, personal strengths, and adaptability to foster long-term resilience. My strengths are empathy and compassion.
(07) 4429 8871 View (07) 4429 8871
Photo of Kylie Margaret Madigan, Psychologist in Queensland
Kylie Margaret Madigan
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Capalaba, QLD 4157
I am devoted to supporting and empowering adolescents and adults to reach their potential and live authentically. I work with many different presentations including: trauma, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder & Complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, risk, phobias, low self-esteem, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and Autism Spectrum Disorder. My areas of passion include supporting the LGBTIQA+ community and working with trauma. I also love supporting NDIS participants to build upon their daily living skills and assist them to meet their NDIS goals.
I am devoted to supporting and empowering adolescents and adults to reach their potential and live authentically. I work with many different presentations including: trauma, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder & Complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, risk, phobias, low self-esteem, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and Autism Spectrum Disorder. My areas of passion include supporting the LGBTIQA+ community and working with trauma. I also love supporting NDIS participants to build upon their daily living skills and assist them to meet their NDIS goals.
(07) 3477 9736 View (07) 3477 9736
Photo of Senta Sharp Counselling, Counsellor in Queensland
Senta Sharp Counselling
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
Paddington, QLD 4064
Feeling overwhelmed, angry, alone, sad or burned out can happen to us all, no matter how successful you are. As a counsellor, I offer support and help to understand your issues, find clarity, make a plan, change direction, feel stronger, and more resilient. I’ll help you cope with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, anger, difficult relationships, medical issues, chronic pain, weight-loss, identity issues, fertility issues, low self-esteem, and life transitions. Take time to focus on you & your mental health. No referral or health care plan needed, just connect and start this week to live a better, calmer, happier life.
Feeling overwhelmed, angry, alone, sad or burned out can happen to us all, no matter how successful you are. As a counsellor, I offer support and help to understand your issues, find clarity, make a plan, change direction, feel stronger, and more resilient. I’ll help you cope with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, anger, difficult relationships, medical issues, chronic pain, weight-loss, identity issues, fertility issues, low self-esteem, and life transitions. Take time to focus on you & your mental health. No referral or health care plan needed, just connect and start this week to live a better, calmer, happier life.
(07) 3186 9745 View (07) 3186 9745

See more therapy options for Queensland

Bipolar Disorder Counsellors

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.