Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Berkeley, CA

Photo of Kristina Blatter, Psychologist in Berkeley, CA
Kristina Blatter
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94705
Most of my experience has been in working with eating disorders/ disordered eating, depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorders and personality disorders.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with 15 years of experience. I have worked in many different environments including hospitals, drug and alcohol treatment, residential treatment, and in community mental health.  I am now committed to guiding folks in a more intimate private practice setting either in office or via telehealth. If you're dealing with specific mental health challenges or just looking to gain more insight into what is holding you back, my goal is to explore your path to emotional well being. I hope to get to know you!
Most of my experience has been in working with eating disorders/ disordered eating, depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorders and personality disorders.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with 15 years of experience. I have worked in many different environments including hospitals, drug and alcohol treatment, residential treatment, and in community mental health.  I am now committed to guiding folks in a more intimate private practice setting either in office or via telehealth. If you're dealing with specific mental health challenges or just looking to gain more insight into what is holding you back, my goal is to explore your path to emotional well being. I hope to get to know you!
(510) 983-7668 View (510) 983-7668
Photo of William Selig, PsyD, MFA, Psychologist in Berkeley, CA
William Selig, PsyD, MFA
Psychologist, PsyD, MFA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94701
I am also an expert in treating bipolar disorder and am the author of When Your Partner Has Bipolar Disorder.
Are you feeling stuck or overwhelmed? Do you get in your own way, with negative thoughts or behaviors? Do you struggle with intimacy and trust? Perhaps you're gripped by emotions you cannot control; or the opposite - feel disconnected, alienated, unable to get close? Others have found healing and transformation through psychotherapy - there is hope!
I am also an expert in treating bipolar disorder and am the author of When Your Partner Has Bipolar Disorder.
Are you feeling stuck or overwhelmed? Do you get in your own way, with negative thoughts or behaviors? Do you struggle with intimacy and trust? Perhaps you're gripped by emotions you cannot control; or the opposite - feel disconnected, alienated, unable to get close? Others have found healing and transformation through psychotherapy - there is hope!
(510) 871-8326 View (510) 871-8326
Photo of Susan Futterman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Berkeley, CA
Susan Futterman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94705
I am primarily focused on working with bereaved individuals and/or families who have lost someone to suicide as well as working with individuals who have made suicide attempts in the past or are considering an attempt. In addition, I work with individuals dealing with emotional/psychological trauma of all types, as well as with depression and grief. I also have experience working with people dealing with challenges such as bipolar disorder. I provide both individual and group therapy.
I am primarily focused on working with bereaved individuals and/or families who have lost someone to suicide as well as working with individuals who have made suicide attempts in the past or are considering an attempt. In addition, I work with individuals dealing with emotional/psychological trauma of all types, as well as with depression and grief. I also have experience working with people dealing with challenges such as bipolar disorder. I provide both individual and group therapy.
(415) 870-8056 View (415) 870-8056
Photo of Elyse Lanzner Gong, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Berkeley, CA
Elyse Lanzner Gong, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94707  (Online Only)
I enable my clients as they move through transitions and realization of a harmonious and integrated self. I do this by utilizing evidence-based practice with transparency, humor, and compassion. I support my clients to feel empowered in their daily decisions and overall well-being. My clients often present to therapy struggling in one or more of the following life areas: relationship issues, anxiety, depression & bipolar disorder, shame, perinatal related issues, substance use, and life transitions. In couples therapy, I am here to support each partner learn and apply the Gottman tools that can truly change your relationship.
I enable my clients as they move through transitions and realization of a harmonious and integrated self. I do this by utilizing evidence-based practice with transparency, humor, and compassion. I support my clients to feel empowered in their daily decisions and overall well-being. My clients often present to therapy struggling in one or more of the following life areas: relationship issues, anxiety, depression & bipolar disorder, shame, perinatal related issues, substance use, and life transitions. In couples therapy, I am here to support each partner learn and apply the Gottman tools that can truly change your relationship.
(510) 405-4876 View (510) 405-4876
Photo of Kelly Albrecht, Pre-Licensed Professional in Berkeley, CA
Kelly Albrecht
Pre-Licensed Professional, ASW
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94704
With expertise in substance use disorder, ADHD, bipolar and personality disorders, my holistic approach to therapy prioritizes safety and healing, with trauma-informed care.
Are you struggling to process depression, anxiety, relationship/family issues, and trauma? These emotional ruptures can cause major disruptions in our lives. The work to process these types of life events is multifaceted, and I can help you identify your feelings and potential relational patterns, build tolerance and acceptance around challenging ones, and set meaningful goals. In order to do so, I utilize various therapeutic approaches consisting of ACT, CBT, and Problem Solving Therapy and somatic interventions.
With expertise in substance use disorder, ADHD, bipolar and personality disorders, my holistic approach to therapy prioritizes safety and healing, with trauma-informed care.
Are you struggling to process depression, anxiety, relationship/family issues, and trauma? These emotional ruptures can cause major disruptions in our lives. The work to process these types of life events is multifaceted, and I can help you identify your feelings and potential relational patterns, build tolerance and acceptance around challenging ones, and set meaningful goals. In order to do so, I utilize various therapeutic approaches consisting of ACT, CBT, and Problem Solving Therapy and somatic interventions.
(415) 855-7073 View (415) 855-7073
Photo of Cynthia Liuska, Marriage & Family Therapist in Berkeley, CA
Cynthia Liuska
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94704
I work with depression, bipolar, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, life transitions and substance abuse.
What would it be like to feel at home in your body, in your mind, and in your heart? How would it feel to truly inhabit your life, with a greater sense of aliveness, ease, and connection? From my experience working with hundreds of clients from all walks of life, I know that difficult times can become a doorway to healing, change and greater connection with one's true self. I have a warm, collaborative approach and will support you in healing the wounds of the past and making inner and outer changes needed for a more fulfilling life.
I work with depression, bipolar, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, life transitions and substance abuse.
What would it be like to feel at home in your body, in your mind, and in your heart? How would it feel to truly inhabit your life, with a greater sense of aliveness, ease, and connection? From my experience working with hundreds of clients from all walks of life, I know that difficult times can become a doorway to healing, change and greater connection with one's true self. I have a warm, collaborative approach and will support you in healing the wounds of the past and making inner and outer changes needed for a more fulfilling life.
(628) 333-2192 View (628) 333-2192
Photo of James L Spira, Psychologist in Berkeley, CA
James L Spira
Psychologist, PhD, MPH, ABPP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94705  (Online Only)
20 years experience working with individuals and couples from a broad range of cultural backgrounds and psychological issues, including relationship counseling, depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, eating disorders, substance abuse and others.
I approach therapy as education - helping clients to better identify patterns associated with difficulties, develop skills to overcome these difficulties, and learn how to utilize these skills in their daily lives in order to live as optimally as possible. We focus both on addressing the issues that have been plaguing you as well as learning to live more fully and comfortably in each moment and activity you are engaged in. Learning powerful skills helps overcome specific problems, boost resilience against future problems, and more fully enjoy daily life. Therapy is individually tailored to your specific needs and lifestyle.
20 years experience working with individuals and couples from a broad range of cultural backgrounds and psychological issues, including relationship counseling, depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, eating disorders, substance abuse and others.
I approach therapy as education - helping clients to better identify patterns associated with difficulties, develop skills to overcome these difficulties, and learn how to utilize these skills in their daily lives in order to live as optimally as possible. We focus both on addressing the issues that have been plaguing you as well as learning to live more fully and comfortably in each moment and activity you are engaged in. Learning powerful skills helps overcome specific problems, boost resilience against future problems, and more fully enjoy daily life. Therapy is individually tailored to your specific needs and lifestyle.
(808) 495-0038 View (808) 495-0038
Photo of Katherine H Schulz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Berkeley, CA
Katherine H Schulz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94701  (Online Only)
I treat clients who have difficulty with borderline personality disorder, depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, bipolar disorder as well as clients in the midst of a major life transition or grief. Many of my clients struggle to regulate their emotions. They either avoid emotions altogether or feel explosive or out of control of their emotions.
I treat clients who have difficulty with borderline personality disorder, depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, bipolar disorder as well as clients in the midst of a major life transition or grief. Many of my clients struggle to regulate their emotions. They either avoid emotions altogether or feel explosive or out of control of their emotions.
(925) 259-3408 View (925) 259-3408
Photo of Tim Henry, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Berkeley, CA
Tim Henry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94705
I have 16 years of experience helping clients with relationship issues, depression, anxiety, life transitions, divorce, boundary issues, parental challenges, grief, trauma, chronic pain, & Bipolar Disorder.
Who is driving you crazy? Your partner, your boss, your teacher, your mother? Are you feeling overwhelmed, trapped, unsatisfied? Would you like to be more assertive, establish stronger boundaries & have more satisfying relationships? Would you like to remove obstacles that are preventing you from achieving your dreams? I want to help you develop life-long patterns to sustain a richer, more gratifying life. I specialize in working with adults going through transitions relating to work, school & relationships. I love working with intelligent, creative, motivated & insightful clients.
I have 16 years of experience helping clients with relationship issues, depression, anxiety, life transitions, divorce, boundary issues, parental challenges, grief, trauma, chronic pain, & Bipolar Disorder.
Who is driving you crazy? Your partner, your boss, your teacher, your mother? Are you feeling overwhelmed, trapped, unsatisfied? Would you like to be more assertive, establish stronger boundaries & have more satisfying relationships? Would you like to remove obstacles that are preventing you from achieving your dreams? I want to help you develop life-long patterns to sustain a richer, more gratifying life. I specialize in working with adults going through transitions relating to work, school & relationships. I love working with intelligent, creative, motivated & insightful clients.
(510) 878-4379 View (510) 878-4379
Photo of Jason Hsu, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Berkeley, CA
Jason Hsu
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94720
My focus centers on treating anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder and substance use.
I'm Jason Hsu, an LCSW with a deep commitment to helping individuals navigate life's challenges. Having personally experienced the challenges and transformative power of therapy, I am driven to destigmatize conversations about mental health within Asian-American communities. My dedication to this work remains unwavering, and I look forward to accompanying you on your journey toward greater well-being and fulfillment. My therapeutic style is characterized by warmth, enthusiasm, and, when appropriate, humor. I maintain a client-led approach to goal setting, allowing objectives to shift and evolve as insights develop.
My focus centers on treating anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder and substance use.
I'm Jason Hsu, an LCSW with a deep commitment to helping individuals navigate life's challenges. Having personally experienced the challenges and transformative power of therapy, I am driven to destigmatize conversations about mental health within Asian-American communities. My dedication to this work remains unwavering, and I look forward to accompanying you on your journey toward greater well-being and fulfillment. My therapeutic style is characterized by warmth, enthusiasm, and, when appropriate, humor. I maintain a client-led approach to goal setting, allowing objectives to shift and evolve as insights develop.
(510) 694-4603 View (510) 694-4603
Photo of Ashley Ah Hyun Lee, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Berkeley, CA
Ashley Ah Hyun Lee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94704
We also offer EMDR Therapy, PTSD Treatment, Anxiety Therapy, Depression Therapy, and Therapy for Bipolar Disorder.
We specialize in Trauma and PTSD. We work with individual adults who have a long history of childhood trauma, sexual violence and abuse, difficult family dynamics, intergenerational trauma, cultural differences with their parents, family members with substance use issues, social anxiety, phobia, and depression. We help you process what happened, attend to and be with your emotions without dissociating, and rather find relief from sharing the stories. We also work with people whose doctors have recommended seeking trauma therapy like EMDR therapy.
We also offer EMDR Therapy, PTSD Treatment, Anxiety Therapy, Depression Therapy, and Therapy for Bipolar Disorder.
We specialize in Trauma and PTSD. We work with individual adults who have a long history of childhood trauma, sexual violence and abuse, difficult family dynamics, intergenerational trauma, cultural differences with their parents, family members with substance use issues, social anxiety, phobia, and depression. We help you process what happened, attend to and be with your emotions without dissociating, and rather find relief from sharing the stories. We also work with people whose doctors have recommended seeking trauma therapy like EMDR therapy.
(650) 955-4312 View (650) 955-4312
Photo of Altaf Bhimji, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Berkeley, CA
Altaf Bhimji
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94704
You may have a goal of living a meaningful life in all of its richness - and are seeking help with mental health concerns, such as depression, anxiety, trauma, and/or somatic concerns. Childhood or long ago emotional concerns may continue to impact present day relationships, and/or day to day life. Or, perhaps, more recent incident(s) of stress or significant strain? A collaborative person-centered approach can help with self-reflection and exploring your life experiences, while working towards your goals, and healing.
You may have a goal of living a meaningful life in all of its richness - and are seeking help with mental health concerns, such as depression, anxiety, trauma, and/or somatic concerns. Childhood or long ago emotional concerns may continue to impact present day relationships, and/or day to day life. Or, perhaps, more recent incident(s) of stress or significant strain? A collaborative person-centered approach can help with self-reflection and exploring your life experiences, while working towards your goals, and healing.
(510) 422-1805 View (510) 422-1805
Photo of Peninsula Counseling and Consulting, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Berkeley, CA
Peninsula Counseling and Consulting
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MBA, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94705
Let’s be honest: you’ve always been responsible, and now you’ve got a lot to manage! Between a demanding career, school, and family needs, you’re feeling stressed, and life feels out of balance. It’s impossible to do it all, and nothing ever seems good enough. You feel alone and worried, and your social network isn’t able to provide you with the support that you need. Perhaps your sleep is problematic, or your energy is low. Maybe you’re feeling anxious, depressed, irritable, or having difficulty concentrating. You might be troubled by feeling that you're an ineffective partner or parent. Things will get better soon, right?
Let’s be honest: you’ve always been responsible, and now you’ve got a lot to manage! Between a demanding career, school, and family needs, you’re feeling stressed, and life feels out of balance. It’s impossible to do it all, and nothing ever seems good enough. You feel alone and worried, and your social network isn’t able to provide you with the support that you need. Perhaps your sleep is problematic, or your energy is low. Maybe you’re feeling anxious, depressed, irritable, or having difficulty concentrating. You might be troubled by feeling that you're an ineffective partner or parent. Things will get better soon, right?
(855) 964-3150 View (855) 964-3150
Photo of Sonja Baumer, Marriage & Family Therapist in Berkeley, CA
Sonja Baumer
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94708
I have over 10 years of clinical experience in outpatient clinics, schools, private practice, and humanitarian organizations. My practice has been informed by clinical training and extensive academic background in developmental psychology. It also incorporates my life experience in coping with challenges of immigration, parenthood, career transitions and aging. I believe that healing entails personal growth. You may need to develop a new awareness, an insight, or a specific coping skill to resolve your problem. I provide a safe space for you to explore what is that you need in order to live a more productive and enjoyable life.
I have over 10 years of clinical experience in outpatient clinics, schools, private practice, and humanitarian organizations. My practice has been informed by clinical training and extensive academic background in developmental psychology. It also incorporates my life experience in coping with challenges of immigration, parenthood, career transitions and aging. I believe that healing entails personal growth. You may need to develop a new awareness, an insight, or a specific coping skill to resolve your problem. I provide a safe space for you to explore what is that you need in order to live a more productive and enjoyable life.
(858) 922-3855 View (858) 922-3855
Photo of Katherine Jones, Marriage & Family Therapist in Berkeley, CA
Katherine Jones
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94704
I am passionate about offering strengths-based and client-centered therapy while providing a safe and welcoming atmosphere to help clients navigate through the challenges that life may bring. I will focus on your strength and your progress along the way. I have supported many members of the LGBTQIA community with a variety of concerns, including assisting some on their gender journey. I have also supported women with trauma, clients with anxiety disorders, and issues around perfectionism, identity, and purpose. I have also enjoyed working with adolescents and those that dance to the beat of their own drum.
I am passionate about offering strengths-based and client-centered therapy while providing a safe and welcoming atmosphere to help clients navigate through the challenges that life may bring. I will focus on your strength and your progress along the way. I have supported many members of the LGBTQIA community with a variety of concerns, including assisting some on their gender journey. I have also supported women with trauma, clients with anxiety disorders, and issues around perfectionism, identity, and purpose. I have also enjoyed working with adolescents and those that dance to the beat of their own drum.
(562) 378-4149 View (562) 378-4149
Photo of Shauna Reiff, Marriage & Family Therapist in Berkeley, CA
Shauna Reiff
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94705
Dissatisfied with your relationship to a partner, boss, or yourself? Do things feel out of control? Finding a good fit with a therapist can play a vital role in getting more of what you want in life. I see myself as someone who guides and facilitates a committed, compassionate and confidential space where we can clarify what is most important to you, and discover the blocks that get in the way of having the life that you want. In my practice I help individuals and couples find their own way to lasting changes.
Dissatisfied with your relationship to a partner, boss, or yourself? Do things feel out of control? Finding a good fit with a therapist can play a vital role in getting more of what you want in life. I see myself as someone who guides and facilitates a committed, compassionate and confidential space where we can clarify what is most important to you, and discover the blocks that get in the way of having the life that you want. In my practice I help individuals and couples find their own way to lasting changes.
(510) 986-4368 View (510) 986-4368
Photo of Yumi Iwai, Counselor in Berkeley, CA
Yumi Iwai
Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94704
Are you feeling stuck, isolated, or afraid? Life is a constant transition; it never stays the same. It is understandable to feel uncertainty, self-doubt, and even fear. When faced with these feelings, many people turn to themselves, wondering what’s wrong with them. You are not alone. I understand how scary it is to feel like you have to move forward all by yourself in these trying times. Now, more than ever, I believe that human connection fosters one’s innate potential to open the door and see the possibilities that are waiting on the other side. I would be honored to bear witness to your courageous journey.
Are you feeling stuck, isolated, or afraid? Life is a constant transition; it never stays the same. It is understandable to feel uncertainty, self-doubt, and even fear. When faced with these feelings, many people turn to themselves, wondering what’s wrong with them. You are not alone. I understand how scary it is to feel like you have to move forward all by yourself in these trying times. Now, more than ever, I believe that human connection fosters one’s innate potential to open the door and see the possibilities that are waiting on the other side. I would be honored to bear witness to your courageous journey.
(341) 444-2943 View (341) 444-2943
Photo of Lisa Cohen Bennett, Psychologist in Berkeley, CA
Lisa Cohen Bennett
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94707
As a psychologist, teacher, mother and trauma specialist, I enjoy working with teens, young adults, adults and couples who are trying to feel better. If you are wanting to stop the challenging patterns in your life, we may be a good fit. If you are wanting to find (or re-find) the joy in life, we may be a good fit. If you are wondering how your history may be affecting your current life, we may be a good fit. If you are looking for a psychotherapist who will help you help yourself, we may be a good fit. You and I will develop a warm, accepting, compassionate environment where we work to establish hope. Give it a try!
As a psychologist, teacher, mother and trauma specialist, I enjoy working with teens, young adults, adults and couples who are trying to feel better. If you are wanting to stop the challenging patterns in your life, we may be a good fit. If you are wanting to find (or re-find) the joy in life, we may be a good fit. If you are wondering how your history may be affecting your current life, we may be a good fit. If you are looking for a psychotherapist who will help you help yourself, we may be a good fit. You and I will develop a warm, accepting, compassionate environment where we work to establish hope. Give it a try!
(925) 248-4815 View (925) 248-4815
Photo of Alicia A Parker, Marriage & Family Therapist in Berkeley, CA
Alicia A Parker
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94720
Waitlist for new clients
It may seem like we are alone in our journey. We are all waging a personal invisible fight that we share with few people. Individual therapy is a way to help you make sense of your experience, and gain emotional support to push through difficult times. Beginning therapy is an opportunity to start offering yourself more compassion and grace. I’ve spent over 10 years supporting adults and families in crisis. I work with adults and adolescents struggling with grief, anxiety, addiction, depression, panic, and phobias.
It may seem like we are alone in our journey. We are all waging a personal invisible fight that we share with few people. Individual therapy is a way to help you make sense of your experience, and gain emotional support to push through difficult times. Beginning therapy is an opportunity to start offering yourself more compassion and grace. I’ve spent over 10 years supporting adults and families in crisis. I work with adults and adolescents struggling with grief, anxiety, addiction, depression, panic, and phobias.
(925) 350-6001 View (925) 350-6001
Photo of Sheila Rubin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Berkeley, CA
Sheila Rubin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, RDT, BCT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94705
I am a leading authority on healing shame. I co-created the Healing Shame – Lyon/Rubin method and am the Co-Director of the Center for Healing Shame, a continuing education provider that offers workshops to therapists and other helping professionals. In my private practice, I developed therapy techniques integrating somatic and expressive processes to work with the all-pervasive shame and trauma that underlie toxic family dynamics, depression and eating disorders. I integrate Emotionally Focused Therapy and AEDP with Drama Therapy, Hakomi, Focusing and Expressive Arts. I work with the imposter syndrome and voracious inner critics.
I am a leading authority on healing shame. I co-created the Healing Shame – Lyon/Rubin method and am the Co-Director of the Center for Healing Shame, a continuing education provider that offers workshops to therapists and other helping professionals. In my private practice, I developed therapy techniques integrating somatic and expressive processes to work with the all-pervasive shame and trauma that underlie toxic family dynamics, depression and eating disorders. I integrate Emotionally Focused Therapy and AEDP with Drama Therapy, Hakomi, Focusing and Expressive Arts. I work with the imposter syndrome and voracious inner critics.
(415) 858-6869 View (415) 858-6869
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.