Bipolar Disorder Therapists in 32801

Photo of Courtney Crawford, MSW,  LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Courtney Crawford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32801
In addition to PTSD/trauma, she focuses on helping clients manage anxiety and bipolar disorder, providing a comprehensive and individualized treatment plan.
Courtney Crawford, an LCSW at LifeStance Health, offers a wealth of experience and expertise in helping clients navigate their mental health challenges. Serving patients across Florida, she specializes in treating conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD/trauma, and ADHD. Courtney employs evidence-based practices, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), internal family systems, and trauma-focused interventions, to help clients reach their goals with empathy and professionalism.
In addition to PTSD/trauma, she focuses on helping clients manage anxiety and bipolar disorder, providing a comprehensive and individualized treatment plan.
Courtney Crawford, an LCSW at LifeStance Health, offers a wealth of experience and expertise in helping clients navigate their mental health challenges. Serving patients across Florida, she specializes in treating conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD/trauma, and ADHD. Courtney employs evidence-based practices, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), internal family systems, and trauma-focused interventions, to help clients reach their goals with empathy and professionalism.
(321) 410-7977 View (321) 410-7977
Photo of Laura Hutto, LMHC, Counselor
Laura Hutto
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32801
Hello! I'm Laura. I'm here to help you with depression, anxiety, coping skills, and more! Are you struggling with work, relationships, or transitions? Perhaps you are a college student struggling to cope with the stress of that life transition, parental relationship, or keeping up with everything. Maybe you're a mother of 3 and having a hard time keeping your head above water. I'm here to help all just trying to get by or make positive changes in their life. I am not limited to the above. I can also help manage mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar, grief, PTSD, and OCD.
Hello! I'm Laura. I'm here to help you with depression, anxiety, coping skills, and more! Are you struggling with work, relationships, or transitions? Perhaps you are a college student struggling to cope with the stress of that life transition, parental relationship, or keeping up with everything. Maybe you're a mother of 3 and having a hard time keeping your head above water. I'm here to help all just trying to get by or make positive changes in their life. I am not limited to the above. I can also help manage mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar, grief, PTSD, and OCD.
(850) 753-2201 View (850) 753-2201
Photo of Roselyn Ortega, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Roselyn Ortega
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32801  (Online Only)
I have years of experience with a variety of disorders most comfortable and experienced with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, life transition problems, PTSD, sexual abuse, human trafficking, and trauma.
With a passion for helping others achieve their greatest potential, providing a safe and comfortable atmosphere to clients to lay the groundwork for open communication and personal accomplishments. Investing in clients and working with them to achieve their therapeutic goals is a priority. The ideal outcome is to help clients to learn skills that they can use in all settings and relationships and support them as they function in all areas of their life holistically. The idea is they find inner peace and personal joy.
I have years of experience with a variety of disorders most comfortable and experienced with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, life transition problems, PTSD, sexual abuse, human trafficking, and trauma.
With a passion for helping others achieve their greatest potential, providing a safe and comfortable atmosphere to clients to lay the groundwork for open communication and personal accomplishments. Investing in clients and working with them to achieve their therapeutic goals is a priority. The ideal outcome is to help clients to learn skills that they can use in all settings and relationships and support them as they function in all areas of their life holistically. The idea is they find inner peace and personal joy.
(772) 238-5153 View (772) 238-5153
Photo of John F Robertson, PhD, Psychologist
John F Robertson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32801
Our focus and passion in counseling and therapy are in working with individuals with resolving physical, emotional or sexual trauma issues, bipolar disorders and couples in conflict Psychological testing/evaluations are also a specialty.
Sometimes life weighs us down with major challenges. I believe that individuals, couples or families have the amazing capability of growing, healing and becoming more than anyone can predict, given the appropriate approach. Therapy is designed to guide and assist in this process and ranges from individual psychotherapy to family systems intervention. With my clinical associates Dr. Renee Von Raub, School Psychologist, Vanessa Mejias, LMHC, Tasha Williams, RMHCI, Shinell Stewart, RMHCI, Jamonte Barnes, RMHCI, and Calandra Jackson, RMHCI, we work in a mutual effort to resolve diverse relational, gender, sexual and disability issues.
Our focus and passion in counseling and therapy are in working with individuals with resolving physical, emotional or sexual trauma issues, bipolar disorders and couples in conflict Psychological testing/evaluations are also a specialty.
Sometimes life weighs us down with major challenges. I believe that individuals, couples or families have the amazing capability of growing, healing and becoming more than anyone can predict, given the appropriate approach. Therapy is designed to guide and assist in this process and ranges from individual psychotherapy to family systems intervention. With my clinical associates Dr. Renee Von Raub, School Psychologist, Vanessa Mejias, LMHC, Tasha Williams, RMHCI, Shinell Stewart, RMHCI, Jamonte Barnes, RMHCI, and Calandra Jackson, RMHCI, we work in a mutual effort to resolve diverse relational, gender, sexual and disability issues.
(407) 901-2239 View (407) 901-2239
Photo of Ann-Marie Caddle-Logan, LMHC, Counselor
Ann-Marie Caddle-Logan
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32801  (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Ann-Marie. I enjoy working with individuals and families, helping them to navigate the challenges of life, whether they are personal, with family, or with peers. I help my clients identify and implement effective coping skills for a variety of issues, including Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Bipolar, Grief and loss, Self -esteem, Life stages/transition, and Coping with chronic medical conditions such as infertility and diabetes.
Hi, I'm Ann-Marie. I enjoy working with individuals and families, helping them to navigate the challenges of life, whether they are personal, with family, or with peers. I help my clients identify and implement effective coping skills for a variety of issues, including Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Bipolar, Grief and loss, Self -esteem, Life stages/transition, and Coping with chronic medical conditions such as infertility and diabetes.
(772) 227-1696 View (772) 227-1696
Photo of Giselle Cabrera, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Giselle Cabrera
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32801  (Online Only)
I have experience with a wide range of clinical issues, which includes: depression, self-esteem, anxiety, stress related issues, family conflict, bipolar disorder, mood disorders, anger management, and substance use disorders.
Hello, my name is Giselle. I am a licensed clinical social worker in the state of Florida. I have been working in the mental health field for over 15 years. My experience is with individuals, families, and groups in community organizations, hospital settings, and outpatient setting.
I have experience with a wide range of clinical issues, which includes: depression, self-esteem, anxiety, stress related issues, family conflict, bipolar disorder, mood disorders, anger management, and substance use disorders.
Hello, my name is Giselle. I am a licensed clinical social worker in the state of Florida. I have been working in the mental health field for over 15 years. My experience is with individuals, families, and groups in community organizations, hospital settings, and outpatient setting.
(786) 460-4616 View (786) 460-4616
Photo of Ann Currier, LMHC, Counselor
Ann Currier
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32801  (Online Only)
While I specialize in LGBTQ+, schizophrenia and DID, I can treat a myriad of mental health issues including, but not limited to, depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, personality disorders, and much more.
I specialize in LGBTQ+/transgender issues, as well as schizophrenia and dissociative identity disorder. I have been an active advocate and ally in the LGBTQ+ community since 1993, and can assist with coming out (work, school, family/friends), HRT/GAC/GCS referrals, finding resources, gaining confidence, building your support system, and any/all aspects of transition. Clients with schizophrenia and DID will find my treatment methods non-conventional, direct but gentle, and respectful. Parents/caregivers are welcome and encouraged also.
While I specialize in LGBTQ+, schizophrenia and DID, I can treat a myriad of mental health issues including, but not limited to, depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, personality disorders, and much more.
I specialize in LGBTQ+/transgender issues, as well as schizophrenia and dissociative identity disorder. I have been an active advocate and ally in the LGBTQ+ community since 1993, and can assist with coming out (work, school, family/friends), HRT/GAC/GCS referrals, finding resources, gaining confidence, building your support system, and any/all aspects of transition. Clients with schizophrenia and DID will find my treatment methods non-conventional, direct but gentle, and respectful. Parents/caregivers are welcome and encouraged also.
(321) 321-5323 View (321) 321-5323
Photo of Dr. Julia Lockyer, PsyD, MS, Psychologist
Dr. Julia Lockyer
Psychologist, PsyD, MS
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32801
My passion is working with students and adults with a range of concerns such as: LGBTQIA+ issues, anxiety, depression, bipolar, OCD, ADHD, trauma, general life stressors, or personal growth. I completed my APA accredited internship at University of Southern California and post-doctoral hours in private practice. I have been trained in a number of evidenced-based and research informed practices and I pull from these to inform care.
My passion is working with students and adults with a range of concerns such as: LGBTQIA+ issues, anxiety, depression, bipolar, OCD, ADHD, trauma, general life stressors, or personal growth. I completed my APA accredited internship at University of Southern California and post-doctoral hours in private practice. I have been trained in a number of evidenced-based and research informed practices and I pull from these to inform care.
(904) 298-7698 View (904) 298-7698
Photo of Cynthia Noemi Aleman, LMHC
Cynthia Noemi Aleman
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32801  (Online Only)
I have over 10 years of experience working with addictions and mental health disorders including; anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, and PTSD among others.
Book with me now by clicking on my website. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and I am here to help navigate through life issues and mental health challenges. I can help you through your journey providing support, guidance, and facilitating processing difficult emotions utilizing cognitive techniques and behavior modification among others. I am a responsible, mature, and committed individual with strong communication skills who has a long standing and successful counseling career and loves to work with individuals, families, couples, and groups.
I have over 10 years of experience working with addictions and mental health disorders including; anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, and PTSD among others.
Book with me now by clicking on my website. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and I am here to help navigate through life issues and mental health challenges. I can help you through your journey providing support, guidance, and facilitating processing difficult emotions utilizing cognitive techniques and behavior modification among others. I am a responsible, mature, and committed individual with strong communication skills who has a long standing and successful counseling career and loves to work with individuals, families, couples, and groups.
(863) 862-4924 View (863) 862-4924
Photo of Rick Cullen, JD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rick Cullen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, JD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32801
I am a FL licensed psychotherapist, working for years at dual diagnosis treatment centers, and have extensive experience in helping persons who experience depression, anxiety, problems with addiction, mood disorders such as Bipolar Disorder, and thought disorders, including Schizophrenia.
Are you struggling with issues related to depression, grief, anxiety, or the stressors of daily living? Is your drinking or drug use turning into an addiction, or maybe you've crossed the line of being able to manage your life. Do you wish there were options for dealing with the things that are holding you back from living happy, healthy, and content? Are you looking for ways to deal with your substance use, but are too afraid to seek help, believing there is only one, correct method of doing so? There comes a time when we need help from a qualified professional to assist us in coping, visit: https://cullenbehavioralhealth.com
I am a FL licensed psychotherapist, working for years at dual diagnosis treatment centers, and have extensive experience in helping persons who experience depression, anxiety, problems with addiction, mood disorders such as Bipolar Disorder, and thought disorders, including Schizophrenia.
Are you struggling with issues related to depression, grief, anxiety, or the stressors of daily living? Is your drinking or drug use turning into an addiction, or maybe you've crossed the line of being able to manage your life. Do you wish there were options for dealing with the things that are holding you back from living happy, healthy, and content? Are you looking for ways to deal with your substance use, but are too afraid to seek help, believing there is only one, correct method of doing so? There comes a time when we need help from a qualified professional to assist us in coping, visit: https://cullenbehavioralhealth.com
(561) 503-2985 View (561) 503-2985
Photo of Cathy Morey, MEd, MA, LPC, LMHC, Counselor
Cathy Morey
Counselor, MEd, MA, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32801  (Online Only)
I serve both FLORIDA and TEXAS. My passion is to assist my clients with identifying any barriers to healthy relationships, while uncovering your true potential. I believe this is a therapeutic process built on trust, hope and caring so that there can be healing and genuine change that transfers to the real world. My 28 years of experience have equipped me with such specialties as military issues, marital conflicts, anxiety & depression, narcissism, addictions, sexual, emotional, physical abuse, PTSD, OCD, eating disorders, families in crisis, and bipolar disorder.
I serve both FLORIDA and TEXAS. My passion is to assist my clients with identifying any barriers to healthy relationships, while uncovering your true potential. I believe this is a therapeutic process built on trust, hope and caring so that there can be healing and genuine change that transfers to the real world. My 28 years of experience have equipped me with such specialties as military issues, marital conflicts, anxiety & depression, narcissism, addictions, sexual, emotional, physical abuse, PTSD, OCD, eating disorders, families in crisis, and bipolar disorder.
(352) 605-2648 View (352) 605-2648
Photo of Megan Tostado, MSW, LCSW, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Megan Tostado
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32801
Areas of experience: life transitions, stress, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, relationship concerns, addiction, communication skills and so much more.
We all face times when we know we want something different for ourselves, but we don’t exactly know what. We know that the world is changing, that we might need to change too, or maybe even learn how to tolerate uncomfortable feelings that change can bring. Maybe there are parts of your life that feel unmanageable or downright difficult. Change can feel overwhelming, and at the same time we can experience new and exciting parts of life as we go through these transitions and challenges.
Areas of experience: life transitions, stress, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, relationship concerns, addiction, communication skills and so much more.
We all face times when we know we want something different for ourselves, but we don’t exactly know what. We know that the world is changing, that we might need to change too, or maybe even learn how to tolerate uncomfortable feelings that change can bring. Maybe there are parts of your life that feel unmanageable or downright difficult. Change can feel overwhelming, and at the same time we can experience new and exciting parts of life as we go through these transitions and challenges.
(708) 581-7899 View (708) 581-7899
Photo of Amber Rae Apostol, MA, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amber Rae Apostol
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32801  (Online Only)
Accepting new clients! Do you feel like something is holding you back from living your best life? As a licensed therapist, I’ve always been passionate about helping others. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, trauma, or simply feeling stuck in your current situation, I'm here to provide support and guidance to help you overcome these challenges. I specialize in using evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) to help my clients achieve their goals.
Accepting new clients! Do you feel like something is holding you back from living your best life? As a licensed therapist, I’ve always been passionate about helping others. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, trauma, or simply feeling stuck in your current situation, I'm here to provide support and guidance to help you overcome these challenges. I specialize in using evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) to help my clients achieve their goals.
(919) 364-5450 View (919) 364-5450
Photo of Nick Azzarelli, LMHC
Nick Azzarelli
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32801  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating clients with OCD, though I've worked with a number of individuals with symptoms of depression, anxiety, ADHD, and bipolar disorder.
My ideal client is one who is as committed to putting in the work for therapy as I am. I intend to give my all for our therapy sessions so long as you are intent on collaborating with me to reach the life you deserve. No matter your presenting concerns, it is my hope that you have come to me with an open mind and an understanding that you get what you put into our sessions.
I specialize in treating clients with OCD, though I've worked with a number of individuals with symptoms of depression, anxiety, ADHD, and bipolar disorder.
My ideal client is one who is as committed to putting in the work for therapy as I am. I intend to give my all for our therapy sessions so long as you are intent on collaborating with me to reach the life you deserve. No matter your presenting concerns, it is my hope that you have come to me with an open mind and an understanding that you get what you put into our sessions.
(929) 357-1905 View (929) 357-1905
Photo of Benjamin Jose Medina-Suarez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Benjamin Jose Medina-Suarez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32801  (Online Only)
As someone who's bipolar and neurodivergent, I can help you see your strengths and potential, just like I have, and help you deal with any challenging emotions or situations.
Are recent events making you feel like everything is piling up and becoming too much to handle? Are you finding yourself grappling with sudden anxiety and persistent, overwhelming thoughts? If life used to feel wonderful, but now you're feeling adrift and in need of some direction, please know that it's completely normal. We are all emotional beings, and there's only so much we can handle at once. At times, gaining a fresh perspective on our situation and identifying our inner strengths can propel us to become an improved version of ourselves. "Emotions are the colors that paint the canvas of our lives." -Kate Atkinson
As someone who's bipolar and neurodivergent, I can help you see your strengths and potential, just like I have, and help you deal with any challenging emotions or situations.
Are recent events making you feel like everything is piling up and becoming too much to handle? Are you finding yourself grappling with sudden anxiety and persistent, overwhelming thoughts? If life used to feel wonderful, but now you're feeling adrift and in need of some direction, please know that it's completely normal. We are all emotional beings, and there's only so much we can handle at once. At times, gaining a fresh perspective on our situation and identifying our inner strengths can propel us to become an improved version of ourselves. "Emotions are the colors that paint the canvas of our lives." -Kate Atkinson
(321) 321-1522 View (321) 321-1522
Photo of Lauren Silver, LMHC, Counselor
Lauren Silver
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32801
I am a graduate of Long Island University located in Purchase, NY, where I received my Master's of Science in Mental Health Counseling. I received my post graduate experience in Florida in community health centers, hospitals, substance rehabilitation centers, skilled nursing facilities and private practice. I am an LMHC (Licensed Mental Health Counselor) in the state of Florida.
I am a graduate of Long Island University located in Purchase, NY, where I received my Master's of Science in Mental Health Counseling. I received my post graduate experience in Florida in community health centers, hospitals, substance rehabilitation centers, skilled nursing facilities and private practice. I am an LMHC (Licensed Mental Health Counselor) in the state of Florida.
(386) 339-3781 View (386) 339-3781
Photo of Katie Belcher-Miller, LMHC, QS, CAS, Counselor
Katie Belcher-Miller
Counselor, LMHC, QS, CAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32801  (Online Only)
Hello, I'm Katie, an AuDHD therapist, and owner of Anchored in Hope Counseling Services LLC. Do you identify as neurodivergent or suspect you may be? Do you struggle with anxiety or some type of mood issue? If you answered "yes" to either question (or both!), then I might be the right therapist for you.
Hello, I'm Katie, an AuDHD therapist, and owner of Anchored in Hope Counseling Services LLC. Do you identify as neurodivergent or suspect you may be? Do you struggle with anxiety or some type of mood issue? If you answered "yes" to either question (or both!), then I might be the right therapist for you.
(863) 208-5210 View (863) 208-5210
Photo of Arianna Hoyo, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Arianna Hoyo
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32801
Are you struggling with anxiety or trauma? Feeling depressed? Life can be difficult and we don't ask for the situations that make us resilient, but with the support of a therapist, we can heal, grow, and blossom into the best versions of ourselves. I specialize in trauma and mood disorders in young adults, offering compassionate support and evidence-based therapies to help you regain control of your life. Expect a warm, empathetic, and non-judgmental environment where your concerns are heard and validated. Together, we will explore thoughts and emotions, and pave the way for healing.
Are you struggling with anxiety or trauma? Feeling depressed? Life can be difficult and we don't ask for the situations that make us resilient, but with the support of a therapist, we can heal, grow, and blossom into the best versions of ourselves. I specialize in trauma and mood disorders in young adults, offering compassionate support and evidence-based therapies to help you regain control of your life. Expect a warm, empathetic, and non-judgmental environment where your concerns are heard and validated. Together, we will explore thoughts and emotions, and pave the way for healing.
(321) 635-0966 View (321) 635-0966
Photo of Michelle Poindexter, LMHC, Counselor
Michelle Poindexter
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32801  (Online Only)
I am a Palm Beach County, Florida native, mother, and counselor with a true passion for helping others and giving back to my community. I have always been passionate about overcoming the stigma surrounding mental health in our communities, healing from ACES, and resolving generational traumas. With every client, I strive to empower, educate, and uplift them through their therapeutic journey.
I am a Palm Beach County, Florida native, mother, and counselor with a true passion for helping others and giving back to my community. I have always been passionate about overcoming the stigma surrounding mental health in our communities, healing from ACES, and resolving generational traumas. With every client, I strive to empower, educate, and uplift them through their therapeutic journey.
(786) 686-0494 View (786) 686-0494
Photo of Malisha McPhaul, LMHC, Counselor
Malisha McPhaul
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32801  (Online Only)
I am a licensed mental health counselor in Florida with over 6 years of experience working as a therapist/counselor and mentor. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, substance abuse problems, and ADHD. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. I believe that in order to navigate life issues, you need the tools to tackle life challenges. I care about your optimum mental and emotional health.
I am a licensed mental health counselor in Florida with over 6 years of experience working as a therapist/counselor and mentor. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, substance abuse problems, and ADHD. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. I believe that in order to navigate life issues, you need the tools to tackle life challenges. I care about your optimum mental and emotional health.
(407) 974-4366 View (407) 974-4366
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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.