Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Bessemer, AL

Photo of Tamara Oliver-Jackson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bessemer, AL
Tamara Oliver-Jackson
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LPC , NCC, CAMS-II, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bessemer, AL 35020
As your therapist, I have over two decades of experience working with children, adolescents, teens, families, and couples with the following: depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, addictions, parenting issues, divorce issues, domestic violence, anger management attention deficit disorder, ADHD, post-traumatic stress disorder, physical and sexual abuse, oppositional defiant disorder, adjustment disorder, parenting skills development, learning disabilities, educational/school problems and relational issues and divorce.
I work to create a safe, confidential, genuine, and non-judgmental setting, which is essential for establishing a healthy therapeutic relationship. When clients can experience a sense of unconditional positive regard from their therapist, they will be more apt to be vested in the therapeutic process. Part of my job as a therapist is to actively listen to what you are saying and not saying, during each session. Through active listening, I can help you explore the underlying issues of your experience as well as identify your personal strengths. I utilize a myriad of therapeutic approaches in meeting clients' individual therapeutic goals, needs, and styles. Such as, 'talk' therapy, humanistic, cognitive-behavioral therapy, rational emotive behavior therapy, play therapy, and sand tray therapy, etc. I promote increased self-awareness and actualization, which develops emotional, physical, and spiritual balance. This works towards reducing many sources of conflict in one's life.
As your therapist, I have over two decades of experience working with children, adolescents, teens, families, and couples with the following: depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, addictions, parenting issues, divorce issues, domestic violence, anger management attention deficit disorder, ADHD, post-traumatic stress disorder, physical and sexual abuse, oppositional defiant disorder, adjustment disorder, parenting skills development, learning disabilities, educational/school problems and relational issues and divorce.
I work to create a safe, confidential, genuine, and non-judgmental setting, which is essential for establishing a healthy therapeutic relationship. When clients can experience a sense of unconditional positive regard from their therapist, they will be more apt to be vested in the therapeutic process. Part of my job as a therapist is to actively listen to what you are saying and not saying, during each session. Through active listening, I can help you explore the underlying issues of your experience as well as identify your personal strengths. I utilize a myriad of therapeutic approaches in meeting clients' individual therapeutic goals, needs, and styles. Such as, 'talk' therapy, humanistic, cognitive-behavioral therapy, rational emotive behavior therapy, play therapy, and sand tray therapy, etc. I promote increased self-awareness and actualization, which develops emotional, physical, and spiritual balance. This works towards reducing many sources of conflict in one's life.
(205) 881-5028 View (205) 881-5028
Photo of Restoration Faith Based Counseling, Inc, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bessemer, AL
Restoration Faith Based Counseling, Inc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, PIP, MPH, MDiv, DMin
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bessemer, AL 35022  (Online Only)
I have specialty experience with anxiety disorder, depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and personality disorder.
I desire to serve any person in need of mental health counseling across multiple areas. I want to provide affordable counseling to those in need by accepting insurance from multiple insurance providers and providing a sliding fee scale.
I have specialty experience with anxiety disorder, depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and personality disorder.
I desire to serve any person in need of mental health counseling across multiple areas. I want to provide affordable counseling to those in need by accepting insurance from multiple insurance providers and providing a sliding fee scale.
(205) 582-7885 View (205) 582-7885
Photo of Birmingham Anxiety and Trauma Therapy, Psychologist in Bessemer, AL
Birmingham Anxiety and Trauma Therapy
Psychologist, PhD, LICSW, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bessemer, AL 35021
Do you struggle with anxiety and excessive worry? Have you been through a traumatic event that was difficult to resolve? We help individuals, couples, children, and families overcome anxiety, depression, worry, recent or past trauma, stress, PTSD, child behavioral problems, couples challenges, and family conflict issues. We identify ways to get you un-stuck and back to wellness. Our Psychologists and Therapists have many years of combined training and experience. We use state of the art techniques to help you overcome your challenges. We'll help you practice new ways of looking at things and handling problems more effectively.
Do you struggle with anxiety and excessive worry? Have you been through a traumatic event that was difficult to resolve? We help individuals, couples, children, and families overcome anxiety, depression, worry, recent or past trauma, stress, PTSD, child behavioral problems, couples challenges, and family conflict issues. We identify ways to get you un-stuck and back to wellness. Our Psychologists and Therapists have many years of combined training and experience. We use state of the art techniques to help you overcome your challenges. We'll help you practice new ways of looking at things and handling problems more effectively.
(205) 272-5676 View (205) 272-5676
Photo of Te'aira Davis, Counselor in Bessemer, AL
Te'aira Davis
Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Bessemer, AL 35020
**Now Accepting New Clients**As a licensed and national board certified counselor, I have several years of counseling experience with helping children, teens, adults as well as individuals with disabilities. I strive to meet clients where they are by offering counseling services utilizing various psychotherapy techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Reality Therapy, and Trauma-Focused Therapy. I help clients to focus on their needs and identify goals for success. I want you to be a happier, healthier you.
**Now Accepting New Clients**As a licensed and national board certified counselor, I have several years of counseling experience with helping children, teens, adults as well as individuals with disabilities. I strive to meet clients where they are by offering counseling services utilizing various psychotherapy techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Reality Therapy, and Trauma-Focused Therapy. I help clients to focus on their needs and identify goals for success. I want you to be a happier, healthier you.
(205) 576-0805 View (205) 576-0805
Photo of Rekita C. Jackson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bessemer, AL
Rekita C. Jackson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CAMS, CGS
Verified Verified
Bessemer, AL 35020
***Now Accepting New Clients***Life sometimes deals us problems and situations that seem impossible to handle. But do know there is a flip side to every card. Let me help you help yourself to work through issues life may throw your way.
***Now Accepting New Clients***Life sometimes deals us problems and situations that seem impossible to handle. But do know there is a flip side to every card. Let me help you help yourself to work through issues life may throw your way.
(205) 272-5594 View (205) 272-5594
Photo of LaTesha Gardner, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bessemer, AL
LaTesha Gardner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bessemer, AL 35021
No two people or situations are exactly the same. I use active listening skills as you express your reality, so that we can work towards a positive change in your situation. I enjoy and continue to work with a diverse clientele. Providing services to adult and adolescent individuals who may be dealing with depression, boundary setting, bullying, self-esteem, peer pressure, gender identity or other environmental concerns that may unsettle daily life.
No two people or situations are exactly the same. I use active listening skills as you express your reality, so that we can work towards a positive change in your situation. I enjoy and continue to work with a diverse clientele. Providing services to adult and adolescent individuals who may be dealing with depression, boundary setting, bullying, self-esteem, peer pressure, gender identity or other environmental concerns that may unsettle daily life.
(205) 894-6501 View (205) 894-6501

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Kat Lawson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bessemer, AL
Kat Lawson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, CMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hoover, AL 35244
Some of my counseling emphasis' are personality disorders, autism issues and mood disorders including major depression, anxiety and bipolar disorders.
My philosophy of counseling is that every human soul is unique and their experiences shape their view of the world. The process of individuation is essential in order for a person to become whole and fully developed as his, her, or their 'true self.' I believe empathy, collaboration and validation are key to the counseling relationship. The person as NOT the problem, rather, the problem is the problem. In the counseling relationship we will focus on strengths and mindfully and collaboratively awaken awareness of the authentic self to free clients of negative learned beliefs. The goal is for you to have a satisfactory life.
Some of my counseling emphasis' are personality disorders, autism issues and mood disorders including major depression, anxiety and bipolar disorders.
My philosophy of counseling is that every human soul is unique and their experiences shape their view of the world. The process of individuation is essential in order for a person to become whole and fully developed as his, her, or their 'true self.' I believe empathy, collaboration and validation are key to the counseling relationship. The person as NOT the problem, rather, the problem is the problem. In the counseling relationship we will focus on strengths and mindfully and collaboratively awaken awareness of the authentic self to free clients of negative learned beliefs. The goal is for you to have a satisfactory life.
(205) 336-5015 View (205) 336-5015
Photo of Derrick C. Manora, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bessemer, AL
Derrick C. Manora
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35208
I work with families, couples, adolescents and adults coping with stress, anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder.
An ideal client is one who is opening and invested in seeking growth and improvement. Working together we can find, not only the right answers, but find the right questions.
I work with families, couples, adolescents and adults coping with stress, anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder.
An ideal client is one who is opening and invested in seeking growth and improvement. Working together we can find, not only the right answers, but find the right questions.
(334) 458-8043 View (334) 458-8043
Photo of New Beginnings Therapy LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bessemer, AL
New Beginnings Therapy LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Vestavia Hills, AL 35216
I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, borderline personality disorder, bipolar, obsessive compulsive disorders, and addiction disorders.
My passion for counseling comes from the enjoyment of being able to engage the client into sharing their life stories and seeing the positive outcomes of overcoming those issues that are keeping the client from living a fully engaging life. As an experienced counselor, the most rewarding feeling comes from seeing clients transition from emotional and mental anguish into a more peaceful mind and soul. Clients can be assured that they will have a warm, caring, and non-judgmental therapist who will listen and be present with them on their journey to well-being.
I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, borderline personality disorder, bipolar, obsessive compulsive disorders, and addiction disorders.
My passion for counseling comes from the enjoyment of being able to engage the client into sharing their life stories and seeing the positive outcomes of overcoming those issues that are keeping the client from living a fully engaging life. As an experienced counselor, the most rewarding feeling comes from seeing clients transition from emotional and mental anguish into a more peaceful mind and soul. Clients can be assured that they will have a warm, caring, and non-judgmental therapist who will listen and be present with them on their journey to well-being.
(659) 200-6397 View (659) 200-6397
Photo of David Eckhardt Kilmer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bessemer, AL
David Eckhardt Kilmer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PIP
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35209
I have worked in the mental health field for 40+ years. During my career I have worked with a variety of patients including adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I have treated trauma exposure, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, mild autism spectrum disorders, attention deficit disorder (and related issues). I have also provided support for individuals in recovery. I believe that by identifying, focusing on, and enhancing clients' strengths, I can assist them in developing additional individualized tools to meet mental health challenges.
I have worked in the mental health field for 40+ years. During my career I have worked with a variety of patients including adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I have treated trauma exposure, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, mild autism spectrum disorders, attention deficit disorder (and related issues). I have also provided support for individuals in recovery. I believe that by identifying, focusing on, and enhancing clients' strengths, I can assist them in developing additional individualized tools to meet mental health challenges.
(205) 769-4938 View (205) 769-4938
Photo of Elpida Counseling, LLC, Counselor in Bessemer, AL
Elpida Counseling, LLC
Counselor, MEd, ALC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vestavia Hills, AL 35216  (Online Only)
I take special interest in adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) with adults, or trauma exposure, and believe that only by working through these experiences can we begin to heal. ACEs can lead to issues in adulthood relationships, careers, and mental health that we do not often realize correlates with our childhood experiences. I have extensive experience working with those experiencing PTSD, panic attacks, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, OCD, phobias, and life transitions. I also have unique experience working with individuals with mood disorders, such as bipolar disorder, personality disorders, and major depressive disorder.
I take special interest in adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) with adults, or trauma exposure, and believe that only by working through these experiences can we begin to heal. ACEs can lead to issues in adulthood relationships, careers, and mental health that we do not often realize correlates with our childhood experiences. I have extensive experience working with those experiencing PTSD, panic attacks, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, OCD, phobias, and life transitions. I also have unique experience working with individuals with mood disorders, such as bipolar disorder, personality disorders, and major depressive disorder.
(205) 850-5173 View (205) 850-5173
Photo of Katie Bearden, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bessemer, AL
Katie Bearden
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35244
As a mental health therapist I have experience working with adults and adolescents struggling with a variety of mental health issues such as; depression, anxiety, PTSD, ODD, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, RAD, and DMDD.
Do you find yourself concerned about your mental well-being due to depression, anxiety, a mood disorder, self-harm, or poor performance at school or work? Are you struggling with how to manage your emotions or mental health? My goal is to help guide my clients as a supportive team-member in their therapeutic journey and help assist families with making their relationships stronger. I like to cater my therapeutic approach for my clients based on their narrative and develop coping skills to help manage their challenges based on their specific needs.
As a mental health therapist I have experience working with adults and adolescents struggling with a variety of mental health issues such as; depression, anxiety, PTSD, ODD, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, RAD, and DMDD.
Do you find yourself concerned about your mental well-being due to depression, anxiety, a mood disorder, self-harm, or poor performance at school or work? Are you struggling with how to manage your emotions or mental health? My goal is to help guide my clients as a supportive team-member in their therapeutic journey and help assist families with making their relationships stronger. I like to cater my therapeutic approach for my clients based on their narrative and develop coping skills to help manage their challenges based on their specific needs.
(205) 859-1780 View (205) 859-1780
Photo of Leigh Miller Counseling, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bessemer, AL
Leigh Miller Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Vestavia Hills, AL 35216
Waitlist for new clients
I treat most mental health disorders, including depression, bipolar, anxiety, and PTSD.
Seeking counseling is a very personal decision. Finding the right provider can be the most important step in the healing process. I believe I have helped so many clients because I use an array of tools and methods which I tailor to a client's unique goals. My approach is to work hard to understand a client's perspective and values. Sometimes this means helping the client explore and discover what that is for themselves. I lead AND follow - I may prompt, encourage, and confront, but I follow a client's pace (willingness and readiness) to delve into the issues.
I treat most mental health disorders, including depression, bipolar, anxiety, and PTSD.
Seeking counseling is a very personal decision. Finding the right provider can be the most important step in the healing process. I believe I have helped so many clients because I use an array of tools and methods which I tailor to a client's unique goals. My approach is to work hard to understand a client's perspective and values. Sometimes this means helping the client explore and discover what that is for themselves. I lead AND follow - I may prompt, encourage, and confront, but I follow a client's pace (willingness and readiness) to delve into the issues.
(205) 291-0143 View (205) 291-0143
Photo of Jillian Littlefield, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bessemer, AL
Jillian Littlefield
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Hoover, AL 35244
Whether it's anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, substance use, etc.
If you are struggling to manage a mood, anxiety, or substance use disorder and feeling discouraged, or you find yourself at a loss for how to deal with unresolved trauma, grief and loss issues, or major life changes, I invite you to reach out. I am passionate about working with all members of addicted families, whether you have a substance use disorder yourself or find yourself trying to cope with a loved one's addiction. Whether you are in recovery and trying to stay there, caught in a pattern of relapse, or uncertain whether your substance use is even problematic, let's work on it together. Mental health matters, and so do you.
Whether it's anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, substance use, etc.
If you are struggling to manage a mood, anxiety, or substance use disorder and feeling discouraged, or you find yourself at a loss for how to deal with unresolved trauma, grief and loss issues, or major life changes, I invite you to reach out. I am passionate about working with all members of addicted families, whether you have a substance use disorder yourself or find yourself trying to cope with a loved one's addiction. Whether you are in recovery and trying to stay there, caught in a pattern of relapse, or uncertain whether your substance use is even problematic, let's work on it together. Mental health matters, and so do you.
(205) 883-5541 View (205) 883-5541
Alan Blotcky Phd Llc
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35209
I am a licensed clinical psychologist and I see children, adolescents, and adults. I specialize in psychological testing and diagnostic evaluations. I do evaluations for depression, anxiety, personality disorders, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, ADHD, behavior problems, learning disorders, and others. I do evaluations in divorce, child custody, criminal, elder competency, personal injury, and other cases. I collaborate with doctors, lawyers, and other mental health professionals.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist and I see children, adolescents, and adults. I specialize in psychological testing and diagnostic evaluations. I do evaluations for depression, anxiety, personality disorders, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, ADHD, behavior problems, learning disorders, and others. I do evaluations in divorce, child custody, criminal, elder competency, personal injury, and other cases. I collaborate with doctors, lawyers, and other mental health professionals.
(205) 509-4258 View (205) 509-4258
Laili R Markert
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Hoover, AL 35216
Dr. Markert is a licensed clinical psychologist, with a B.A. from Emory University, Masters degrees from the University of Michigan and the University of Toledo, and a PhD from the University of Toledo. She did her internship at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) Medical School. She provides assessment of mood disorders, ADHD, and cognitive problems related to school performance. Her training is in Cognitive-Behavioral and Dialectical Behavior Therapies. Dr. Markert works in therapy with adolescents and adults with a wide variety of psychological problems including: Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Adjustment Disorder, and Post-partum anxiety and depression.
Dr. Markert is a licensed clinical psychologist, with a B.A. from Emory University, Masters degrees from the University of Michigan and the University of Toledo, and a PhD from the University of Toledo. She did her internship at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) Medical School. She provides assessment of mood disorders, ADHD, and cognitive problems related to school performance. Her training is in Cognitive-Behavioral and Dialectical Behavior Therapies. Dr. Markert works in therapy with adolescents and adults with a wide variety of psychological problems including: Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Adjustment Disorder, and Post-partum anxiety and depression.
(205) 877-3558 View (205) 877-3558
Photo of Lindsay Parker, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bessemer, AL
Lindsay Parker
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hoover, AL 35244
NOW accepting new patients. Currently many people report feeling lonely and isolated with crippling anxiety and depression. For some, they feel emotionally paralyzed and stuck. It is my belief that we can all live balanced lives with quality and purpose, regardless of our past or current circumstances. Together, we can work to implement positive coping mechanisms that can assist in making great change in your daily life.
NOW accepting new patients. Currently many people report feeling lonely and isolated with crippling anxiety and depression. For some, they feel emotionally paralyzed and stuck. It is my belief that we can all live balanced lives with quality and purpose, regardless of our past or current circumstances. Together, we can work to implement positive coping mechanisms that can assist in making great change in your daily life.
(205) 203-9111 View (205) 203-9111
Photo of Antonia C Hill, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bessemer, AL
Antonia C Hill
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Dolomite, AL 35061
Waitlist for new clients
Hi! I have over 10 years of experience providing mental health services to individuals, couples, and families. My passion for serving others is driven by my love for God and the belief that the combination of faith and works can lead to greater quality of life. I have extensive training in the treatment modality of Cognitive Behavior Therapy and this, along with the integration of Christian Counseling principles guides my practice. As a mental health professional, I view the individual as the expert of their life and experiences in order to develop an individualized path toward optimal and holistic wellness.
Hi! I have over 10 years of experience providing mental health services to individuals, couples, and families. My passion for serving others is driven by my love for God and the belief that the combination of faith and works can lead to greater quality of life. I have extensive training in the treatment modality of Cognitive Behavior Therapy and this, along with the integration of Christian Counseling principles guides my practice. As a mental health professional, I view the individual as the expert of their life and experiences in order to develop an individualized path toward optimal and holistic wellness.
(205) 846-1802 View (205) 846-1802
Photo of Shea Miller Integrative Health Services, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bessemer, AL
Shea Miller Integrative Health Services, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pelham, AL 35124
I am a licensed professional counselor at Integrative Health Services, LLC with 15 years of experience working with individuals, adolescents, children, couples, and families. I have worked with a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, relationship issues, family conflicts, parenting issues, career challenges, ADHD, self-esteem, and trauma. I am a Registered Play Therapist who uses play therapy techniques to help children cope with stressful circumstances and life issues. I have a background working in the school systems and foster care helping children and teens cope with stressful circumstances and behavioral issues.
I am a licensed professional counselor at Integrative Health Services, LLC with 15 years of experience working with individuals, adolescents, children, couples, and families. I have worked with a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, relationship issues, family conflicts, parenting issues, career challenges, ADHD, self-esteem, and trauma. I am a Registered Play Therapist who uses play therapy techniques to help children cope with stressful circumstances and life issues. I have a background working in the school systems and foster care helping children and teens cope with stressful circumstances and behavioral issues.
(205) 927-4960 View (205) 927-4960
Photo of Deirdre Crochen Rose, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bessemer, AL
Deirdre Crochen Rose
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, EdS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35226
Daily changes can make the journey through life transitions difficult at times. The pathway can be impeded with barriers and obstacles that create a sense of helplessness and hopelessness. I allow the client to freely acknowledge their need for help and allow the patient to accept the responsibility to take charge and conquer their circumstances. I will enable the client to develop the tools needed to make positive life adjustments.
Daily changes can make the journey through life transitions difficult at times. The pathway can be impeded with barriers and obstacles that create a sense of helplessness and hopelessness. I allow the client to freely acknowledge their need for help and allow the patient to accept the responsibility to take charge and conquer their circumstances. I will enable the client to develop the tools needed to make positive life adjustments.
(205) 984-1945 View (205) 984-1945

See more therapy options for Bessemer

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.