Photo of Shobha George, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Shobha George
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90024  (Online Only)
I have experience working with all demographics but mostly with adults that struggle with a variety of issues, including (but not limited to) depression, anxiety, bipolar and psychotic disorders, stress management, family conflicts, relationship, behavioral and other mental health problems. My approach to you as a client is simple, meet you where you are. I use an eclectic theoretical approach that fits your needs, and one that makes you feel the most comfortable.
I have experience working with all demographics but mostly with adults that struggle with a variety of issues, including (but not limited to) depression, anxiety, bipolar and psychotic disorders, stress management, family conflicts, relationship, behavioral and other mental health problems. My approach to you as a client is simple, meet you where you are. I use an eclectic theoretical approach that fits your needs, and one that makes you feel the most comfortable.
(408) 516-4655 View (408) 516-4655
Photo of Adella Jaeger, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Adella Jaeger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90064
 My areas of expertise include depression and anxiety, bipolar, child development, parenting, teens and maternal health.
Are you feeling "stuck," overwhelmed, or find yourself worrying about things beyond your control? You are looking for the right therapist, someone who will not only "get you," but will actually help you. I am not a stereotypical "so how does that make you feel" therapist. Yes, I am very empathetic, down to earth, caring, and intuitive.. And I am also practical. As a therapist with over a decade of experience, I am actively involved, goal oriented, and realistic. I am skilled at providing both traditional and cutting-edge therapies, using invaluable tools that can open the doors for the insight and clarity that you are searching for.
 My areas of expertise include depression and anxiety, bipolar, child development, parenting, teens and maternal health.
Are you feeling "stuck," overwhelmed, or find yourself worrying about things beyond your control? You are looking for the right therapist, someone who will not only "get you," but will actually help you. I am not a stereotypical "so how does that make you feel" therapist. Yes, I am very empathetic, down to earth, caring, and intuitive.. And I am also practical. As a therapist with over a decade of experience, I am actively involved, goal oriented, and realistic. I am skilled at providing both traditional and cutting-edge therapies, using invaluable tools that can open the doors for the insight and clarity that you are searching for.
(702) 710-0826 View (702) 710-0826
Photo of Lana Cohen, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Los Angeles, CA
Lana Cohen
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90028
You're feeling depressed, isolated, frustrated and angry with the state of the world. And yet you're still expected to keep up with overwhelming pressures and demands of day to day life. It can feel impossible. All this stress can cause us to lose sight of what’s important and end up stuck in the same unhelpful patterns in our work, our relationships, and our own thoughts. But it doesn't have to be this way. What if you could get back in touch with your hopes, dreams, and desires? I work with clients struggling with bipolar disorder or depression, job and career stress, loneliness, and relationship conflicts.
You're feeling depressed, isolated, frustrated and angry with the state of the world. And yet you're still expected to keep up with overwhelming pressures and demands of day to day life. It can feel impossible. All this stress can cause us to lose sight of what’s important and end up stuck in the same unhelpful patterns in our work, our relationships, and our own thoughts. But it doesn't have to be this way. What if you could get back in touch with your hopes, dreams, and desires? I work with clients struggling with bipolar disorder or depression, job and career stress, loneliness, and relationship conflicts.
(747) 269-6061 View (747) 269-6061
Photo of Mary Naa Adjeley Sowah-Quaye, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Mary Naa Adjeley Sowah-Quaye
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90017  (Online Only)
Hello. My name is Mary Sowah-Quaye. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker providing care to clients struggling with life transitions, interpersonal challenges, depression, anxiety, bipolar family, and relationship issues. I am also specialize in working with people of color and LGBTQIA+ community
Hello. My name is Mary Sowah-Quaye. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker providing care to clients struggling with life transitions, interpersonal challenges, depression, anxiety, bipolar family, and relationship issues. I am also specialize in working with people of color and LGBTQIA+ community
(661) 718-4883 View (661) 718-4883
Photo of Mason Nutter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Mason Nutter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90057
My name is Mason Nutter, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I approach therapy in a very person-centered and collaborative way. I am particularly focused on anxiety, depression, mood disorders, substance use, and relapse prevention. I have worked in the mental health field for many years. I have treated patients with depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, anxiety disorders, and substance abuse disorders. I have primarily worked with adult individuals.
My name is Mason Nutter, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I approach therapy in a very person-centered and collaborative way. I am particularly focused on anxiety, depression, mood disorders, substance use, and relapse prevention. I have worked in the mental health field for many years. I have treated patients with depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, anxiety disorders, and substance abuse disorders. I have primarily worked with adult individuals.
(510) 518-3935 View (510) 518-3935
Photo of Chris Marrero, Psychologist in Los Angeles, CA
Chris Marrero
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025
Hello. Thanks for visiting my page. I am the founder of Marrero Psychology, Santa Monica's premier holistic mental healthcare clinic specializing in addressing the needs of professionals and students. My areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder. My clients experience relief from symptoms in addition to higher self-esteem, better sleep, stronger relationships, greater focus, and more satisfaction at work or school. I am passionate about helping people reach their goals and bring greater happiness and mental health into their lives.
Hello. Thanks for visiting my page. I am the founder of Marrero Psychology, Santa Monica's premier holistic mental healthcare clinic specializing in addressing the needs of professionals and students. My areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder. My clients experience relief from symptoms in addition to higher self-esteem, better sleep, stronger relationships, greater focus, and more satisfaction at work or school. I am passionate about helping people reach their goals and bring greater happiness and mental health into their lives.
(424) 375-6014 View (424) 375-6014
Photo of Nicole Pope, Associate Clinical Social Worker in Los Angeles, CA
Nicole Pope
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90010  (Online Only)
Congratulations on taking the courageous step of seeking treatment for your mental health! I understand that searching for a therapist can sometimes add to the stress of seeking mental health care! I am an associate clinical social worker with nearly 10 years of experience in the mental health field. Initially, my focus was exclusively on adolescents aged 13-17 grappling with challenges such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, suicidal thoughts, self-harm, eating disorders, PTSD, trauma, substance abuse, and psychosis. As I progressed practicing, I transitioned to working with adults as well as teens.
Congratulations on taking the courageous step of seeking treatment for your mental health! I understand that searching for a therapist can sometimes add to the stress of seeking mental health care! I am an associate clinical social worker with nearly 10 years of experience in the mental health field. Initially, my focus was exclusively on adolescents aged 13-17 grappling with challenges such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, suicidal thoughts, self-harm, eating disorders, PTSD, trauma, substance abuse, and psychosis. As I progressed practicing, I transitioned to working with adults as well as teens.
(310) 564-7369 View (310) 564-7369
Photo of Jingbo Wang, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Los Angeles, CA
Jingbo Wang
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90010  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), trauma, anger management, addiction, substance abuse, domestic violence (DV), autism spectrum disorder (ASD), bipolar disorder I and II (BP), eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders (OCD), attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and families and couples.
Many are on a journey to find themselves, and this journey can be difficult and arduous. Especially when growing up in homes without feelings of safety and security. Many children have never received the message that they are true miracles. I am here to help you restore your inner peace, face your challenges, accept who you truly are, and to help heal internal wounds. If you are on this journey, you are not alone. You do not have to forget about your past, but together, I would like to help you heal from your past and move forward.
I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), trauma, anger management, addiction, substance abuse, domestic violence (DV), autism spectrum disorder (ASD), bipolar disorder I and II (BP), eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders (OCD), attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and families and couples.
Many are on a journey to find themselves, and this journey can be difficult and arduous. Especially when growing up in homes without feelings of safety and security. Many children have never received the message that they are true miracles. I am here to help you restore your inner peace, face your challenges, accept who you truly are, and to help heal internal wounds. If you are on this journey, you are not alone. You do not have to forget about your past, but together, I would like to help you heal from your past and move forward.
(310) 294-8701 View (310) 294-8701
Photo of Spearhead Health, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Los Angeles, CA
Spearhead Health
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CADC
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90025
Regardless of the circumstances, my ideal participant is one who has any amount of motivation and hope that things can be different in their life. I struggled for many years with a substance abuse disorder (specifically opiates among many other substances) that caused wreckage in my life on so many levels. I can empathize with the human that is using and does not know how to stop. I believe in your power, your resilience, and your spirit. I have helped people with complex mental health issues that include bipolar with psychotic features, depression, anxiety, and a range of substance use disorders & addiction.
Regardless of the circumstances, my ideal participant is one who has any amount of motivation and hope that things can be different in their life. I struggled for many years with a substance abuse disorder (specifically opiates among many other substances) that caused wreckage in my life on so many levels. I can empathize with the human that is using and does not know how to stop. I believe in your power, your resilience, and your spirit. I have helped people with complex mental health issues that include bipolar with psychotic features, depression, anxiety, and a range of substance use disorders & addiction.
(469) 489-3775 View (469) 489-3775
Photo of Michelle Matthews, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Michelle Matthews
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MPA
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90025  (Online Only)
I specialize working with adults suffering from Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar I/II, Psychotic Disorders and Personality Disorders.
NOW OFFERING TELETHERAPY TUESDAY-FRIDAY 6 PM- 8 PM! We are living in a unique political climate. Going through life transitions, and having trouble adjusting? How about ongoing fatigue and stress caring for family? Experiencing increasing worry, anxiety or depression? We all struggle sometimes. It can feel debilitating trying to keep everything to yourself and master every problem. Utilize self care and give me a call. Therapy is a safe space to process deep emotional material. So many of us spend so much time caring for everyone else. But, forget to save a little energy for ourselves, to address our own needs. It's time.
I specialize working with adults suffering from Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar I/II, Psychotic Disorders and Personality Disorders.
NOW OFFERING TELETHERAPY TUESDAY-FRIDAY 6 PM- 8 PM! We are living in a unique political climate. Going through life transitions, and having trouble adjusting? How about ongoing fatigue and stress caring for family? Experiencing increasing worry, anxiety or depression? We all struggle sometimes. It can feel debilitating trying to keep everything to yourself and master every problem. Utilize self care and give me a call. Therapy is a safe space to process deep emotional material. So many of us spend so much time caring for everyone else. But, forget to save a little energy for ourselves, to address our own needs. It's time.
(213) 261-8785 View (213) 261-8785
Photo of Antonia Hickey, Psychologist in Los Angeles, CA
Antonia Hickey
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90025  (Online Only)
I work with adults with depression, anxiety, bipolar dx, trauma hx, and adjustment issues.
I believe that therapy is an individual, unique, and empowered process for each client that allows them to recognize their inner strengths and workings. Each client has their own answers that they are searching for and struggles they are trying to overcome in their daily life. During the process of therapy, I strive to help clients develop an increased sense of autonomy and purpose in order to create movement toward these answers. In succession, I help clients develop healthy ways of coping with stressors, as life is inevitably filled with difficulties and obstacles.
I work with adults with depression, anxiety, bipolar dx, trauma hx, and adjustment issues.
I believe that therapy is an individual, unique, and empowered process for each client that allows them to recognize their inner strengths and workings. Each client has their own answers that they are searching for and struggles they are trying to overcome in their daily life. During the process of therapy, I strive to help clients develop an increased sense of autonomy and purpose in order to create movement toward these answers. In succession, I help clients develop healthy ways of coping with stressors, as life is inevitably filled with difficulties and obstacles.
(323) 766-6717 View (323) 766-6717
Photo of Charles Alarie, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Charles Alarie
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90057
Hello! I am Charlie Alarie, and I am a Marriage and Family Therapist who is passionate about helping people rediscover the peace and joy inherent in the world around them with grace, humor, and kindness. I specialize in working with anxiety disorders, panic disorders, and post-traumatic stress. Additionally, I have many years of experience working with folks struggling with Bipolar disorders, Schizophrenia Spectrum disorders, addiction, and family members supporting those struggling with severe and persistent mental health challenges.
Hello! I am Charlie Alarie, and I am a Marriage and Family Therapist who is passionate about helping people rediscover the peace and joy inherent in the world around them with grace, humor, and kindness. I specialize in working with anxiety disorders, panic disorders, and post-traumatic stress. Additionally, I have many years of experience working with folks struggling with Bipolar disorders, Schizophrenia Spectrum disorders, addiction, and family members supporting those struggling with severe and persistent mental health challenges.
(323) 336-8195 View (323) 336-8195
Photo of Dora Nayely Valencia, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Dora Nayely Valencia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90066  (Online Only)
I have experience working with clients with depression, anxiety, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, men's issues, family/relationship conflict/violence, reduced self-esteem, cultural difficulties and LGBTQIA+ issues.
Currently Accepting New Clients: Welcome. It takes great courage to take the first step in seeking support for past or current experiences. As a therapist, I use a collaborative approach to explore areas of stress and concern to establish goals towards personal growth and change. In doing so, my goal is to provide a safe environment that is free of judgement when embarking on your journey of healing and self-improvement.
I have experience working with clients with depression, anxiety, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, men's issues, family/relationship conflict/violence, reduced self-esteem, cultural difficulties and LGBTQIA+ issues.
Currently Accepting New Clients: Welcome. It takes great courage to take the first step in seeking support for past or current experiences. As a therapist, I use a collaborative approach to explore areas of stress and concern to establish goals towards personal growth and change. In doing so, my goal is to provide a safe environment that is free of judgement when embarking on your journey of healing and self-improvement.
(442) 253-1168 View (442) 253-1168
Photo of Jessica 'gonji' Lee, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Jessica 'gonji' Lee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90066  (Online Only)
I work with people to claim internal power, and to take charge of your own story, regardless of your age. I have a special passion working with children, teens and their families as they navigate the unpredictable terrain of school, relationships, and identity development. I have worked extensively with youth, adults, and QTIBIPOC folks on life transitions, anxiety, panic, depression, trauma, bipolar, neurodivergence (ADHD and autism), psychosis, mood swings, and relationship issues. My style of therapy is not passive, we will set concrete goals and I'll help you build the skills to achieve them.
I work with people to claim internal power, and to take charge of your own story, regardless of your age. I have a special passion working with children, teens and their families as they navigate the unpredictable terrain of school, relationships, and identity development. I have worked extensively with youth, adults, and QTIBIPOC folks on life transitions, anxiety, panic, depression, trauma, bipolar, neurodivergence (ADHD and autism), psychosis, mood swings, and relationship issues. My style of therapy is not passive, we will set concrete goals and I'll help you build the skills to achieve them.
(213) 325-1393 View (213) 325-1393
Photo of Lauren Steffel, Psychologist in Los Angeles, CA
Lauren Steffel
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
18 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90036  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating PTSD/trauma, addiction, BPD, mood disorders including bipolar I & II, and anxiety disorders.
Are you looking for an active, evidence-based approach to address trauma, overwhelming emotions, anxiety, or addiction? If you feel stuck in sadness, fear, worry, or shame, we will use proven techniques from CBT, DBT, ACT, EMDR, and mindfulness to not just reduce your symptoms, but help you build a life worth living. Together, we will identify and understand beliefs or patterns of response that hold you back. With compassion and humor, I will help you stop avoiding, face your fears, and live according to the values and goals that matter most to you. I am licensed in CA (30891), NY (021345), and Florida (TPPY1954).
I specialize in treating PTSD/trauma, addiction, BPD, mood disorders including bipolar I & II, and anxiety disorders.
Are you looking for an active, evidence-based approach to address trauma, overwhelming emotions, anxiety, or addiction? If you feel stuck in sadness, fear, worry, or shame, we will use proven techniques from CBT, DBT, ACT, EMDR, and mindfulness to not just reduce your symptoms, but help you build a life worth living. Together, we will identify and understand beliefs or patterns of response that hold you back. With compassion and humor, I will help you stop avoiding, face your fears, and live according to the values and goals that matter most to you. I am licensed in CA (30891), NY (021345), and Florida (TPPY1954).
(310) 904-6013 View (310) 904-6013
Photo of Richard Lantz, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Richard Lantz
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90062
I work with teens and adults in all stages of life. I work with clients experiencing a wide range of clinical and life issues, including depression, bipolar, anxiety, panic attacks, stress, OCD, ADHD, grief, and trauma. I work with relationship issues, emotional and behavioral issues, and career and life decisions. I also work with autism and substance use issues. My approach is eclectic, diverse, and action-oriented. I use each client’s frame of reference to foster increased connections and understanding.
I work with teens and adults in all stages of life. I work with clients experiencing a wide range of clinical and life issues, including depression, bipolar, anxiety, panic attacks, stress, OCD, ADHD, grief, and trauma. I work with relationship issues, emotional and behavioral issues, and career and life decisions. I also work with autism and substance use issues. My approach is eclectic, diverse, and action-oriented. I use each client’s frame of reference to foster increased connections and understanding.
(323) 330-4915 View (323) 330-4915
Photo of Melissa Briggs, Pre-Licensed Professional in Los Angeles, CA
Melissa Briggs
Pre-Licensed Professional, APCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90010
Hi im Melissa! I have worked with adolescents and individuals with special needs in partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient programs, in the areas of trauma, anxiety, depression, and eating disorders, most of which included dual diagnoses. I have also worked in residential care and treatment for those 18+ who sought relief and recovery from mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, trauma, complicated grief, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, psychosis, and co-occurring disorders of substance misuse, disordered eating, gaming, and social media addictions.
Hi im Melissa! I have worked with adolescents and individuals with special needs in partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient programs, in the areas of trauma, anxiety, depression, and eating disorders, most of which included dual diagnoses. I have also worked in residential care and treatment for those 18+ who sought relief and recovery from mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, trauma, complicated grief, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, psychosis, and co-occurring disorders of substance misuse, disordered eating, gaming, and social media addictions.
(310) 742-9338 View (310) 742-9338
Photo of Christine Dougherty, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Christine Dougherty
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90059
I work with clients who are diagnosed with depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorders.
My name is Christine Dougherty and I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for over a decade. My focus areas include; working with adolescents, adults, and families. My theoretical approach often depends on the specific needs of the individual. Some common approaches I use include cognitive-behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and family systems therapy. I encourage clients to start from where they are and break down large goals into smaller more attainable parts.
I work with clients who are diagnosed with depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorders.
My name is Christine Dougherty and I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for over a decade. My focus areas include; working with adolescents, adults, and families. My theoretical approach often depends on the specific needs of the individual. Some common approaches I use include cognitive-behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and family systems therapy. I encourage clients to start from where they are and break down large goals into smaller more attainable parts.
(213) 786-3341 View (213) 786-3341
Photo of Laura Twersky, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Laura Twersky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025
I specialize in providing evidence-based treatment to individuals with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and personality disorders.
I am a therapist specializing in cognitive-based therapies where we take an active stance at changing the way you talk to yourself and act in your life. While we cannot erase traumas from the past or inevitable pain we may encounter today or in the future, I can equip you with tools to face these obstacles and feel confident in your ability to tackle problems as they arise.
I specialize in providing evidence-based treatment to individuals with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and personality disorders.
I am a therapist specializing in cognitive-based therapies where we take an active stance at changing the way you talk to yourself and act in your life. While we cannot erase traumas from the past or inevitable pain we may encounter today or in the future, I can equip you with tools to face these obstacles and feel confident in your ability to tackle problems as they arise.
(424) 396-0782 View (424) 396-0782
Photo of Diane Ross, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Diane Ross
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90044
Since I work in a public setting my clients have varied from people experiencing Depression, Anxiety Disorder, PTSD, and Bipolar Disorder.
Hi there, my name is Diane. I am an LMFT who is committed to helping people through difficult life challenges, and skilled at helping people navigate and manage symptoms of depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorder, and PTSD. I also have a background working with women who have experienced sexual abuse as children.
Since I work in a public setting my clients have varied from people experiencing Depression, Anxiety Disorder, PTSD, and Bipolar Disorder.
Hi there, my name is Diane. I am an LMFT who is committed to helping people through difficult life challenges, and skilled at helping people navigate and manage symptoms of depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorder, and PTSD. I also have a background working with women who have experienced sexual abuse as children.
(213) 523-7673 View (213) 523-7673

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.