Bipolar Disorder Counselling in Ballarat Central, VIC

Photo of Portia Kambasha in Ballarat Central, VIC
Portia Kambasha
MSc
Verified Verified
Ballarat Central, VIC 3350
I have 20 years experience with complex mental health issues across the age spectrum. I offer a kind, empathetic service to families and individuals using my skills as a family therapist and mental health clinician. I welcome individuals and families who represent marginalised communities, (neurodiverse, LGBTQIA, culturally diverse, and anyone who has ever been “othered”) and provide a service that is inclusive and affirming whilst utilising an anti racist and decolonized lens.
I have 20 years experience with complex mental health issues across the age spectrum. I offer a kind, empathetic service to families and individuals using my skills as a family therapist and mental health clinician. I welcome individuals and families who represent marginalised communities, (neurodiverse, LGBTQIA, culturally diverse, and anyone who has ever been “othered”) and provide a service that is inclusive and affirming whilst utilising an anti racist and decolonized lens.
(03) 4327 9085 View (03) 4327 9085
Photo of Teresa Peers, Psychologist in Ballarat Central, VIC
Teresa Peers
Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Verified Verified
Ballarat Central, VIC 3350
Waitlist for new clients
Offering psychological therapy services and assessments from ages 7 and over. Experience in a range of psychometric testing, ASD assessments (ADIR, ADOS, Sensory Profile), cognitive assessments (WISC, WAIS), ADHD assessments, Adaptive functioning (ABAS, Vineland), and other diagnostic assessments (PAI, Conners). As I am usually very busy in sessions with clients, the best way to make contact with me is via email. Board approved supervisor offering supervision for 5+1 and 4+2 pathways.
Offering psychological therapy services and assessments from ages 7 and over. Experience in a range of psychometric testing, ASD assessments (ADIR, ADOS, Sensory Profile), cognitive assessments (WISC, WAIS), ADHD assessments, Adaptive functioning (ABAS, Vineland), and other diagnostic assessments (PAI, Conners). As I am usually very busy in sessions with clients, the best way to make contact with me is via email. Board approved supervisor offering supervision for 5+1 and 4+2 pathways.
(03) 4328 0430 View (03) 4328 0430
Photo of Sue Balkin-Mitchell, Psychologist in Ballarat Central, VIC
Sue Balkin-Mitchell
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Ballarat Central, VIC 3350
With years of diverse experience, I navigate a wide array of psychological concerns. Whether your issue is acute or prolonged, I provide an empathic, and collaborative approach to addressing your needs and goals. I utilise a range of evidence-based tools and therapies to address needs as appropriate, including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), and Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprocessing (EMDR). Being acutely aware that every client is unique, I take great care to tailor approaches to each clients personality and thinking style.
With years of diverse experience, I navigate a wide array of psychological concerns. Whether your issue is acute or prolonged, I provide an empathic, and collaborative approach to addressing your needs and goals. I utilise a range of evidence-based tools and therapies to address needs as appropriate, including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), and Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprocessing (EMDR). Being acutely aware that every client is unique, I take great care to tailor approaches to each clients personality and thinking style.
(03) 5316 7218 View (03) 5316 7218
Photo of Boundless Minds Therapy, Psychologist in Ballarat Central, VIC
Boundless Minds Therapy
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ballarat Central, VIC 3350
Hi, I'm Jordan and I am a registered Psychologist located in Ballarat, Victoria. I work with people over the age of 16 in enhancing the quality of their life, from boosting their confidence, building healthier relationships to finding more meaning and purpose in their lives. Supporting people to achieve their mental health goals by empowering them to overcome personal challenges and build resilience is something I'm passionate about.
Hi, I'm Jordan and I am a registered Psychologist located in Ballarat, Victoria. I work with people over the age of 16 in enhancing the quality of their life, from boosting their confidence, building healthier relationships to finding more meaning and purpose in their lives. Supporting people to achieve their mental health goals by empowering them to overcome personal challenges and build resilience is something I'm passionate about.
(03) 4327 9375 View (03) 4327 9375
Photo of Heart and Hope Counselling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ballarat Central, VIC
Heart and Hope Counselling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AASW
Verified Verified
Ballarat Central, VIC 3350
I provide counselling, therapy and social work services in both the Newport and Footscray areas. I provide supportive, empathic and flexible responses to individual needs, taking the body, mind and soul into consideration. I have over twenty years of general counselling experience and have particular expertise in grief and loss, trauma, depression, anxiety, mental health issues and working with many other concerns. I am passionate about holding the hope and working from the heart as well as utilising diverse knowledge and skills. It is important to me that counselling is accessible and affordable to people who need it.
I provide counselling, therapy and social work services in both the Newport and Footscray areas. I provide supportive, empathic and flexible responses to individual needs, taking the body, mind and soul into consideration. I have over twenty years of general counselling experience and have particular expertise in grief and loss, trauma, depression, anxiety, mental health issues and working with many other concerns. I am passionate about holding the hope and working from the heart as well as utilising diverse knowledge and skills. It is important to me that counselling is accessible and affordable to people who need it.
(03) 8658 2101 View (03) 8658 2101
Photo of Aleksandra Kajpust, Psychologist in Ballarat Central, VIC
Aleksandra Kajpust
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Ballarat Central, VIC 3350  (Online Only)
I am a passionate, caring and dedicated European who loves helping others. I travel and engage with others with passion and am curious about the world and people. I have developed a reputation for an inquisitive and warm environment in the therapy room. I believe my good energy and genuine enthusiasm encourages people to learn about their mind and behaviour! I love working with kids, adolescents, and adults who have a strong desire to question and understand themselves in their own unique ways. I work collaboratively to develop an evidence-based treatment plan with my clients, empowering them to take control of their lives and goals
I am a passionate, caring and dedicated European who loves helping others. I travel and engage with others with passion and am curious about the world and people. I have developed a reputation for an inquisitive and warm environment in the therapy room. I believe my good energy and genuine enthusiasm encourages people to learn about their mind and behaviour! I love working with kids, adolescents, and adults who have a strong desire to question and understand themselves in their own unique ways. I work collaboratively to develop an evidence-based treatment plan with my clients, empowering them to take control of their lives and goals
(03) 7500 5037 View (03) 7500 5037
Photo of Michelle Downs, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ballarat Central, VIC
Michelle Downs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Ballarat Central, VIC 3350
I am a Mental Health Social Worker and Accredited EMDR therapist. I am specialised in trauma and work with people impacted by Complex PTSD; Acute Trauma; attachment trauma; historical and recent sexual assault and family violence and relationship issues. I am very much an outcome focused therapist and work with individuals to achieve effective and positive results. Understanding the importance of a safe and trusting therapeutic relationship, I am able to put people at ease and provide a space without judgment, open and honest. I work with people via VOCAT, Worksafe, GP referral and self referral.
I am a Mental Health Social Worker and Accredited EMDR therapist. I am specialised in trauma and work with people impacted by Complex PTSD; Acute Trauma; attachment trauma; historical and recent sexual assault and family violence and relationship issues. I am very much an outcome focused therapist and work with individuals to achieve effective and positive results. Understanding the importance of a safe and trusting therapeutic relationship, I am able to put people at ease and provide a space without judgment, open and honest. I work with people via VOCAT, Worksafe, GP referral and self referral.
(03) 5905 7112 View (03) 5905 7112

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Michael Cameron in Ballarat Central, VIC
Michael Cameron
MA
Verified Verified
Alfredton, VIC 3350
I would say the most important step is finding out what you're after. What do you want out of this? that lays the foundation and then we build from there.
I would say the most important step is finding out what you're after. What do you want out of this? that lays the foundation and then we build from there.
(03) 5342 9441 View (03) 5342 9441

Online Therapists

Photo of Suzanne Klotz - People Psychology, Psychologist in Ballarat Central, VIC
Suzanne Klotz - People Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Melbourne, VIC 3000
Get help by seeing Suzanne, who has extensive experience with: Anxiety, Panic Attacks & Anxiety Stress, Phobias (Fear of specific things / situations), Depression, Grief & Loss, Bereavement, Relationship Issues, Couples Counselling, Marriage Counselling, Premarital Counselling, Workplace Stress, Alcohol Abuse & Dependency, PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder), Trauma, Adjustment Disorder, ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) & ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder), Adoption Issues, Anger Management, Bipolar Disorder (BD), Career Guidance, Chronic Pain, Codependency Disorder & Divorce Counselling
Get help by seeing Suzanne, who has extensive experience with: Anxiety, Panic Attacks & Anxiety Stress, Phobias (Fear of specific things / situations), Depression, Grief & Loss, Bereavement, Relationship Issues, Couples Counselling, Marriage Counselling, Premarital Counselling, Workplace Stress, Alcohol Abuse & Dependency, PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder), Trauma, Adjustment Disorder, ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) & ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder), Adoption Issues, Anger Management, Bipolar Disorder (BD), Career Guidance, Chronic Pain, Codependency Disorder & Divorce Counselling
(03) 7003 2585 View (03) 7003 2585
Photo of Aadhyaa Udawat, Counsellor in Ballarat Central, VIC
Aadhyaa Udawat
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Southbank, VIC 3006  (Online Only)
Navigating the intricate landscape of mental health, I specialize in supporting adolescents, young adults, and middle-aged individuals. From attachment and trauma to anxiety, relationship challenges, career stress, grief, depression, bipolar disorder, self-harm, substance abuse, low self-esteem, ADHD, complex trauma, and BPD – I address a diverse range of concerns. With a compassionate approach, we embark on a healing journey tailored to the unique needs of each individual, fostering resilience and well-being. Together, we navigate the complexities, promoting growth and empowerment in the face of various mental health challenges.
Navigating the intricate landscape of mental health, I specialize in supporting adolescents, young adults, and middle-aged individuals. From attachment and trauma to anxiety, relationship challenges, career stress, grief, depression, bipolar disorder, self-harm, substance abuse, low self-esteem, ADHD, complex trauma, and BPD – I address a diverse range of concerns. With a compassionate approach, we embark on a healing journey tailored to the unique needs of each individual, fostering resilience and well-being. Together, we navigate the complexities, promoting growth and empowerment in the face of various mental health challenges.
(03) 7003 2119 View (03) 7003 2119
Photo of Shiao-Hua Kwong, Psychologist in Ballarat Central, VIC
Shiao-Hua Kwong
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Carlton, VIC 3053
I have particular interest in bipolar, mood and anxiety disorders and complex trauma.
I am a clinical psychologist and a client-centred and trauma-informed therapist who works from a standpoint of compassion and curiosity. A migrant from Asia, fluent in English, Mandarin and Cantonese, I have firsthand experience of uprooting from what is familiar and reestablishing in a new environment. I also bring into the therapy room an experience of major career change. I feel privileged to be able to help people make personal recovery from life-changing circumstances, in rebuilding hope, redefining self-identity, assuming / re-assuming responsibilities, and leading a meaningful life.
I have particular interest in bipolar, mood and anxiety disorders and complex trauma.
I am a clinical psychologist and a client-centred and trauma-informed therapist who works from a standpoint of compassion and curiosity. A migrant from Asia, fluent in English, Mandarin and Cantonese, I have firsthand experience of uprooting from what is familiar and reestablishing in a new environment. I also bring into the therapy room an experience of major career change. I feel privileged to be able to help people make personal recovery from life-changing circumstances, in rebuilding hope, redefining self-identity, assuming / re-assuming responsibilities, and leading a meaningful life.
(03) 9111 2663 View (03) 9111 2663
Photo of Julia Bediaga, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ballarat Central, VIC
Julia Bediaga
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Moonee Ponds, VIC 3039
Specialised areas include: Anxiety, Attention disorders, Bipolar Disorder, Body Image, Depression, Family Violence, Gender & Sexuality (LGBTQIA+ inclusive), Grief, Post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), Psychosis, Self harm, Sexual assault, Suicidality.
I am an accredited social worker with extensive experience working in a variety of settings such as the family violence sector, homelessness sector, secondary schools and hospital settings. I embed a person-centered, trauma-informed and strengths-based approach to build a supportive space where individuals can feel free to safely explore their thoughts and feelings.
Specialised areas include: Anxiety, Attention disorders, Bipolar Disorder, Body Image, Depression, Family Violence, Gender & Sexuality (LGBTQIA+ inclusive), Grief, Post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), Psychosis, Self harm, Sexual assault, Suicidality.
I am an accredited social worker with extensive experience working in a variety of settings such as the family violence sector, homelessness sector, secondary schools and hospital settings. I embed a person-centered, trauma-informed and strengths-based approach to build a supportive space where individuals can feel free to safely explore their thoughts and feelings.
(03) 7003 2497 View (03) 7003 2497
Photo of Simon Vincenzi, Psychologist in Ballarat Central, VIC
Simon Vincenzi
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Carlton, VIC 3053
Dr Simon Vincenzi has been practicing psychology since 2010. He has a wide range of experience working with adults and adolescents with anxiety disorders, depression, OCD, sleep problems, bipolar affective disorder, and anger management.
Dr Simon Vincenzi has been practicing psychology since 2010. He has a wide range of experience working with adults and adolescents with anxiety disorders, depression, OCD, sleep problems, bipolar affective disorder, and anger management.
(03) 7003 2462 View (03) 7003 2462
Photo of Isaac Lee, Psychologist in Ballarat Central, VIC
Isaac Lee
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Ascot Vale, VIC 3032
Isaac is particularly interested in helping people with depression, anxiety, bipolar, and gender dysphoria, although he is always looking for new experiences, and is keen to help all of his clients in the best way possible.
The team at Functional Minds Psychology is led by principal psychologist, Isaac Lee. Isaac is a generally registered psychologist with the Psychology Board of Australia (PsyBA). He has also previously been a committee member for the Melbourne branch of the Australian Psychological Society (APS). Isaac’s passion for the field of psychology comes from wanting to help people, to have a positive impact on those he interacts with, and to always be learning more about people, the brain, and the world.
Isaac is particularly interested in helping people with depression, anxiety, bipolar, and gender dysphoria, although he is always looking for new experiences, and is keen to help all of his clients in the best way possible.
The team at Functional Minds Psychology is led by principal psychologist, Isaac Lee. Isaac is a generally registered psychologist with the Psychology Board of Australia (PsyBA). He has also previously been a committee member for the Melbourne branch of the Australian Psychological Society (APS). Isaac’s passion for the field of psychology comes from wanting to help people, to have a positive impact on those he interacts with, and to always be learning more about people, the brain, and the world.
(03) 6144 6136 View (03) 6144 6136
Photo of Joanne Toh, Psychologist in Ballarat Central, VIC
Joanne Toh
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carlton, VIC 3053
Joanne is a psychologist with a master’s degree in clinical psychology. She works with youth, adults, and older adults. Her professional interests include depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar affective disorder, stress management, trauma, grief, and emotional regulation difficulties. She has experience working with clients in schools, private hospitals, and public community mental health settings. It is her vision to create a safe, supportive therapy space for clients to explore their strengths, difficulties and concerns while honing their coping skills and resilience.
Joanne is a psychologist with a master’s degree in clinical psychology. She works with youth, adults, and older adults. Her professional interests include depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar affective disorder, stress management, trauma, grief, and emotional regulation difficulties. She has experience working with clients in schools, private hospitals, and public community mental health settings. It is her vision to create a safe, supportive therapy space for clients to explore their strengths, difficulties and concerns while honing their coping skills and resilience.
(03) 9111 2665 View (03) 9111 2665
Photo of Julia Martz, Psychologist in Ballarat Central, VIC
Julia Martz
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Melbourne, VIC 3000  (Online Only)
Julia’s primary interests include supporting people experiencing trauma, anxiety disorders (including OCD), mood disorders (including bipolar), individual relationship support and difficulties related to identity.
Julia operates via Telehealth only. Julia is a qualified Clinical Psychologist providing online therapy. She has many years of experience delivering evidence-based therapy to adults with various presenting difficulties. Julia believes in the strength of the therapeutic relationship and collaboration between client and therapist to create tailored support for each client. She brings a personable and authentic approach to supporting clients and aims to help clients make meaningful, long-lasting changes.
Julia’s primary interests include supporting people experiencing trauma, anxiety disorders (including OCD), mood disorders (including bipolar), individual relationship support and difficulties related to identity.
Julia operates via Telehealth only. Julia is a qualified Clinical Psychologist providing online therapy. She has many years of experience delivering evidence-based therapy to adults with various presenting difficulties. Julia believes in the strength of the therapeutic relationship and collaboration between client and therapist to create tailored support for each client. She brings a personable and authentic approach to supporting clients and aims to help clients make meaningful, long-lasting changes.
(03) 7003 2371 View (03) 7003 2371
Photo of The Psychology and Therapy Clinic, Laura Smolcic, Psychologist in Ballarat Central, VIC
The Psychology and Therapy Clinic, Laura Smolcic
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Sydenham, VIC 3037
I have worked in a range of settings for over 15 years as a Clinical Psychologist and I am passionate and dedicated to provide you with care, compassion and individually tailored- therapy. I feel fortunate to have been able to provide care to my clients over the years. I use a range of evidence-based psychological therapies for Depression and Anxiety disorders, Trauma , Bipolar Disorder, Addictions, Work issues and Adjustment Disorders , Perfectionism and Eating Disorders. I am particularly passionate about teaching & assisting clients in areas concerning body image issues, weight management, dysfunctional & disordered eating.
I have worked in a range of settings for over 15 years as a Clinical Psychologist and I am passionate and dedicated to provide you with care, compassion and individually tailored- therapy. I feel fortunate to have been able to provide care to my clients over the years. I use a range of evidence-based psychological therapies for Depression and Anxiety disorders, Trauma , Bipolar Disorder, Addictions, Work issues and Adjustment Disorders , Perfectionism and Eating Disorders. I am particularly passionate about teaching & assisting clients in areas concerning body image issues, weight management, dysfunctional & disordered eating.
(03) 7302 2007 View (03) 7302 2007
Photo of Dr Jennifer Wheeler, Psychologist in Ballarat Central, VIC
Dr Jennifer Wheeler
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Kew, VIC 3101
As a clinical psychologist I diagnose and treat many different conditions including anxiety, depression, bipolar, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), substance use disorders, and OCD.
I became a psychologist because I believe that everyone should have the opportunity to live the best life they can. Life is constantly changing and this uncertainty can be a challenge for some people, and may lead to anxiety and depression or other disorders. I utilise a range therapies to meet the differing and deeply personal needs of my clients. I work in collaboration with clients to identify the areas of difficulty and together we set goals and work towards them from a strengths based perspective.
As a clinical psychologist I diagnose and treat many different conditions including anxiety, depression, bipolar, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), substance use disorders, and OCD.
I became a psychologist because I believe that everyone should have the opportunity to live the best life they can. Life is constantly changing and this uncertainty can be a challenge for some people, and may lead to anxiety and depression or other disorders. I utilise a range therapies to meet the differing and deeply personal needs of my clients. I work in collaboration with clients to identify the areas of difficulty and together we set goals and work towards them from a strengths based perspective.
(03) 7003 2145 View (03) 7003 2145
Photo of Tomas Cartmill, Psychologist in Ballarat Central, VIC
Tomas Cartmill
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Melbourne, VIC 3000
I am a senior clinical psychologist with experience in treating a wide range of mental health conditions including: Mood and anxiety disorders (depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorders, bipolar); Trauma (post-traumatic stress and complex trauma); Personality issues including treatment of Borderline Personality Disorder; Emotional dysregulation and sensitivity; Relationships challenges; Adjustment difficulties; Concern regarding sexuality and gender diversity; Challenges associated with body image and disordered eating.
I am a senior clinical psychologist with experience in treating a wide range of mental health conditions including: Mood and anxiety disorders (depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorders, bipolar); Trauma (post-traumatic stress and complex trauma); Personality issues including treatment of Borderline Personality Disorder; Emotional dysregulation and sensitivity; Relationships challenges; Adjustment difficulties; Concern regarding sexuality and gender diversity; Challenges associated with body image and disordered eating.
(03) 7003 2406 View (03) 7003 2406
Photo of Walter Carter, Counsellor in Ballarat Central, VIC
Walter Carter
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
West Melbourne, VIC 3003
I collaborate with clients experiencing ADHD, bipolar, anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma, PTSD, sexual dysfunction, relationship issues and eating disorders.
Sometimes we require a helping hand when adjusting to an ever-changing world. I want to help you develop skills and tools to create sustainable fulfilment within your life. Common challenges we all face include issues with self-esteem, processing negative or strong emotions, work-life balance, adjusting to change, developing meaningful relationships, and discovering our purpose. In addition, stress, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, and interpersonal conflict can obstruct our ability to experience life to its fullest potential. You have the ability to unlock your own power, and I want to help you discover that inner strength.
I collaborate with clients experiencing ADHD, bipolar, anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma, PTSD, sexual dysfunction, relationship issues and eating disorders.
Sometimes we require a helping hand when adjusting to an ever-changing world. I want to help you develop skills and tools to create sustainable fulfilment within your life. Common challenges we all face include issues with self-esteem, processing negative or strong emotions, work-life balance, adjusting to change, developing meaningful relationships, and discovering our purpose. In addition, stress, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, and interpersonal conflict can obstruct our ability to experience life to its fullest potential. You have the ability to unlock your own power, and I want to help you discover that inner strength.
0480 137 195 View 0480 137 195

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Nearby Bipolar Disorder Counsellors Searches for Ballarat Central

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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.