Photo of Catherine Rossi, Associate Clinical Social Worker in Los Angeles, CA
Catherine Rossi
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ACSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90064  (Online Only)
Every human struggles, and every human deserves to feel seen, heard, and supported while finding their way to a healthy flow. Are you feeling disconnected? Your mental health may seem hard for others to understand, or even for you to understand. Maybe it feels overwhelming to question why you feel this way, or what's actually in your control to change. Maybe the things that get you through aren’t the healthiest for you, and you’re ready to try something different. I'm here to accompany and guide you, whether navigating life transitions, addiction, relationship issues, or managing depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, Bipolar, or ADHD.
Every human struggles, and every human deserves to feel seen, heard, and supported while finding their way to a healthy flow. Are you feeling disconnected? Your mental health may seem hard for others to understand, or even for you to understand. Maybe it feels overwhelming to question why you feel this way, or what's actually in your control to change. Maybe the things that get you through aren’t the healthiest for you, and you’re ready to try something different. I'm here to accompany and guide you, whether navigating life transitions, addiction, relationship issues, or managing depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, Bipolar, or ADHD.
(818) 962-2816 View (818) 962-2816
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 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 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 Amy Chow, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Amy Chow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90019
Hello, my name is Amy Chow, my pronouns are she/hers/her, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is passionate about supporting your healing process in a culturally and trauma-informed lens, working through mental health challenges in order to foster healthy coping tools and enhance well-being. I work with adults providing treatment for mood disorders, anxiety disorders, bipolar, psychosis, grief and loss, and PTSD.
Hello, my name is Amy Chow, my pronouns are she/hers/her, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is passionate about supporting your healing process in a culturally and trauma-informed lens, working through mental health challenges in order to foster healthy coping tools and enhance well-being. I work with adults providing treatment for mood disorders, anxiety disorders, bipolar, psychosis, grief and loss, and PTSD.
(323) 694-7244 View (323) 694-7244
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 Linda Fujino, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Linda Fujino
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90025  (Online Only)
Whether you are looking to end an addiction, process complex trauma and shame, or overcome your self-limiting beliefs I am here to help. My extensive experience in the field, as well as my own personal work has led me to the understanding that there is a way out. I treat those with depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, ADHD, grief/loss, children of addict/alcoholics, borderline personality, betrayal trauma, sex/porn addiction, and other issues. Through the therapeutic process I can help you to better understand what you have been through and how to overcome your current struggles to live your fullest, best life.
Whether you are looking to end an addiction, process complex trauma and shame, or overcome your self-limiting beliefs I am here to help. My extensive experience in the field, as well as my own personal work has led me to the understanding that there is a way out. I treat those with depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, ADHD, grief/loss, children of addict/alcoholics, borderline personality, betrayal trauma, sex/porn addiction, and other issues. Through the therapeutic process I can help you to better understand what you have been through and how to overcome your current struggles to live your fullest, best life.
(310) 928-2382 View (310) 928-2382
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 Dr. Cassidy Blair, Psychologist in Los Angeles, CA
Dr. Cassidy Blair
Psychologist, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90049
I specialize in treatment of Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar D/O, variety of Addictions, Trauma, Intimacy and Relationship Issues, Eating D/O, Life Coaching and Performance Coaching.
WE OFFER EVENING AND WEEKEND APPOINTMENTS. My goal is to help you improve the quality of your life and make positive changes by reducing your Anxiety, Depression, eliminating stress, Addiction, and gaining back control. You will achieve a much higher quality of life in a safe, exclusive and caring environment. I will support you to discover your inner strength, and develop effective coping skills. You will experience freedom from emotional pain and feel empowered to achieve your goals and dreams. I provide CONCEIRGE care to executives and professionals.
I specialize in treatment of Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar D/O, variety of Addictions, Trauma, Intimacy and Relationship Issues, Eating D/O, Life Coaching and Performance Coaching.
WE OFFER EVENING AND WEEKEND APPOINTMENTS. My goal is to help you improve the quality of your life and make positive changes by reducing your Anxiety, Depression, eliminating stress, Addiction, and gaining back control. You will achieve a much higher quality of life in a safe, exclusive and caring environment. I will support you to discover your inner strength, and develop effective coping skills. You will experience freedom from emotional pain and feel empowered to achieve your goals and dreams. I provide CONCEIRGE care to executives and professionals.
(424) 888-6124 View (424) 888-6124
Photo of Dominique A White, Psychologist in Los Angeles, CA
Dominique A White
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90001  (Online Only)
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who enjoys working with individuals to help cultivate growth, understanding, and healing. I specialize in working with clients experiencing challenges related to anxiety, depression, trauma, mood disorders, bipolar disorder, psychosis, and specific phobias. If you are experiencing challenges such as difficulties in relationships, work stressors, becoming a parent, or transitioning to other new roles in your life, you can benefit greatly from having a safe space to feel heard, understood, and seen. I aim to build on your existing strengths and discover what you find meaningful in life.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who enjoys working with individuals to help cultivate growth, understanding, and healing. I specialize in working with clients experiencing challenges related to anxiety, depression, trauma, mood disorders, bipolar disorder, psychosis, and specific phobias. If you are experiencing challenges such as difficulties in relationships, work stressors, becoming a parent, or transitioning to other new roles in your life, you can benefit greatly from having a safe space to feel heard, understood, and seen. I aim to build on your existing strengths and discover what you find meaningful in life.
(424) 378-4919 View (424) 378-4919
Photo of Bita Sanchez, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Bita Sanchez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90025  (Online Only)
I work with people who are having difficulty with depression, anxiety, social anxiety, burnout, bipolar, relationship issues, PTSD and past trauma.
Hi there, I'm Bita. Do you feel pulled in a million directions, unable to fit it all in? Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, work and health? Is it hard to be kind to yourself? are you struggling with anxiety and depression? do you have difficulty setting healthy boundaries, be more assertive and better communicate and express your thoughts and feelings with family members and others? are you struggling with self-esteem, low motivation, self-love and compassion? Do you feel burnout and overwhelm? I have been practicing as a therapist for the past 5 years.
I work with people who are having difficulty with depression, anxiety, social anxiety, burnout, bipolar, relationship issues, PTSD and past trauma.
Hi there, I'm Bita. Do you feel pulled in a million directions, unable to fit it all in? Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, work and health? Is it hard to be kind to yourself? are you struggling with anxiety and depression? do you have difficulty setting healthy boundaries, be more assertive and better communicate and express your thoughts and feelings with family members and others? are you struggling with self-esteem, low motivation, self-love and compassion? Do you feel burnout and overwhelm? I have been practicing as a therapist for the past 5 years.
(747) 318-3324 View (747) 318-3324
Photo of Joshua M Medina, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Joshua M Medina
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90001
Hello! I am Gay-identified clinician; my goal is to team up with you and identify what you’d like to work on and together, tackle those challenges head-on. I’m here to help you with anything from relationships, to work/family stress, sexuality, gender identity, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, panic disorder, life adjustments, major health changes. As a gay male, I vowed to work with LGBTQI individuals as I know first hand how challenging it is to find a clinician that has a lived understanding of the struggles within the community. I work with all adults, specializing in LGBTQI issues.
Hello! I am Gay-identified clinician; my goal is to team up with you and identify what you’d like to work on and together, tackle those challenges head-on. I’m here to help you with anything from relationships, to work/family stress, sexuality, gender identity, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, panic disorder, life adjustments, major health changes. As a gay male, I vowed to work with LGBTQI individuals as I know first hand how challenging it is to find a clinician that has a lived understanding of the struggles within the community. I work with all adults, specializing in LGBTQI issues.
(949) 347-5098 View (949) 347-5098
Photo of Sandy Peace, Psychologist in Los Angeles, CA
Sandy Peace
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90071
If you are ready for change in your life therapy is a great catalyst! I am an integrative therapist utilizing a variety of modalities tailored to individuals', partners', and groups' needs: mindfulness, somatic, CBT, DBT, EMDR, brief psychodynamic, existential, humanistic, and relational. I work with a wide range of presenting concerns such as: identity development, life transitions, relationship enhancement, empowered communication, family issues, anxiety, depression, trauma, bipolar, personality disorders, addiction, sexuality, sexual orientation, gender identity, polyamory/open relationships.
If you are ready for change in your life therapy is a great catalyst! I am an integrative therapist utilizing a variety of modalities tailored to individuals', partners', and groups' needs: mindfulness, somatic, CBT, DBT, EMDR, brief psychodynamic, existential, humanistic, and relational. I work with a wide range of presenting concerns such as: identity development, life transitions, relationship enhancement, empowered communication, family issues, anxiety, depression, trauma, bipolar, personality disorders, addiction, sexuality, sexual orientation, gender identity, polyamory/open relationships.
(707) 329-3338 View (707) 329-3338
Photo of Irenda Rios Immigration Evaluation Evaluaciones Inmigracion, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Los Angeles, CA
Irenda Rios Immigration Evaluation Evaluaciones Inmigracion
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90002
My specialty includes working with disorders such as Bipolar spectrum, schizophrenia, anxiety, phobias, borderline personality, and depression.
Mental health, addiction and traumas can be treated with the appropriate psychotherapy. With thirteen years of experience in the field, I have had the opportunity to work with clients who have different problems, needs and objectives. People of all ages, ethnicities and cultures; therefore, giving me the opportunity to develop a deeper understanding on how to detect and treat various conditions. Psychotherapy helps people to go through a recovery process without problems.
My specialty includes working with disorders such as Bipolar spectrum, schizophrenia, anxiety, phobias, borderline personality, and depression.
Mental health, addiction and traumas can be treated with the appropriate psychotherapy. With thirteen years of experience in the field, I have had the opportunity to work with clients who have different problems, needs and objectives. People of all ages, ethnicities and cultures; therefore, giving me the opportunity to develop a deeper understanding on how to detect and treat various conditions. Psychotherapy helps people to go through a recovery process without problems.
(619) 304-3617 View (619) 304-3617
Photo of Christopher Richardson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Christopher Richardson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90025
Life is a journey of many ups and downs with many bumps in the road along the way. I specialize in helping people with those bumps. When I began working in this field I treated adults whom have problems with substance abuse. As I worked with this population I realized that many of my clients were dealing with a plethora of other mental health issues. I continued to refine my skills in therapy I then spent a few years working primarily with children (as young as toddlers through adolescence)also with their parents and families as well. This taught me that many problems people have as adults can begin when they are very young.
Life is a journey of many ups and downs with many bumps in the road along the way. I specialize in helping people with those bumps. When I began working in this field I treated adults whom have problems with substance abuse. As I worked with this population I realized that many of my clients were dealing with a plethora of other mental health issues. I continued to refine my skills in therapy I then spent a few years working primarily with children (as young as toddlers through adolescence)also with their parents and families as well. This taught me that many problems people have as adults can begin when they are very young.
(818) 659-2812 View (818) 659-2812
Photo of Margarette Lathan, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Margarette Lathan
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90015
I am pleased that you have begun your journey of healing and wellness now. My name is Margarette and I am a psychodynamic therapist practicing via Telehealth. I obtained my Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology From Phillips Graduate Institute, and my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Antioch University in Los Angeles. I have worked with a varied and diverse population including infants, children, adolescents, adults and families.
I am pleased that you have begun your journey of healing and wellness now. My name is Margarette and I am a psychodynamic therapist practicing via Telehealth. I obtained my Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology From Phillips Graduate Institute, and my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Antioch University in Los Angeles. I have worked with a varied and diverse population including infants, children, adolescents, adults and families.
(209) 340-3067 View (209) 340-3067
Photo of Aubri Gomez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Aubri Gomez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90004
Maybe you are acknowledging that old patterns of behavior or thinking are no longer serving you and are instead causing you discomfort or even distress. Maybe you are facing new challenges and are motivated to enhance your skill set to cope with them. In any case, I am ready to join you on your journey of redefining purpose in your life and making meaningful change.
Maybe you are acknowledging that old patterns of behavior or thinking are no longer serving you and are instead causing you discomfort or even distress. Maybe you are facing new challenges and are motivated to enhance your skill set to cope with them. In any case, I am ready to join you on your journey of redefining purpose in your life and making meaningful change.
(213) 431-0814 View (213) 431-0814
Photo of Rebecca Hahn-Hooten, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Rebecca Hahn-Hooten
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90005
Hello, and thank you for taking the time to find out if I am the therapist to help YOU! In a private telehealth setting, with a nonjudgmental and hopeful approach to therapy, we can comfortably explore the sources of your stress, change destructive behaviors, and the root of negative thought patterns for personal relief, relationship interactions, and overall life improvement. I am a compassionate, direct, interactive telehealth psychotherapist and healing arts practitioner licensed in the State of California.
Hello, and thank you for taking the time to find out if I am the therapist to help YOU! In a private telehealth setting, with a nonjudgmental and hopeful approach to therapy, we can comfortably explore the sources of your stress, change destructive behaviors, and the root of negative thought patterns for personal relief, relationship interactions, and overall life improvement. I am a compassionate, direct, interactive telehealth psychotherapist and healing arts practitioner licensed in the State of California.
(714) 418-4767 View (714) 418-4767
Photo of Ariane Eroy, Psychologist in Los Angeles, CA
Ariane Eroy
Psychologist, PhD, CHT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90028
I invite you onto an amazing path, one which opens up before your very eyes, your internal world. Receive the support you need to explore who you are, accelerate your evolutionary trajectory, and manage the stressors that characterize our swiftly changing world. Learn to transform challenges into opportunities and thus overcome any difficult feelings that trouble you.
I invite you onto an amazing path, one which opens up before your very eyes, your internal world. Receive the support you need to explore who you are, accelerate your evolutionary trajectory, and manage the stressors that characterize our swiftly changing world. Learn to transform challenges into opportunities and thus overcome any difficult feelings that trouble you.
(415) 802-0590 View (415) 802-0590
Photo of Michelle Giguère, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Michelle Giguère
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, EMDR, Somatic, Reiki
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90004
It is so exhausting living inside a traumatized body and mind. Anxiety that seems to come out of nowhere; thoughts, feelings, and the overwhelm of re-experiencing events. Feelings of unsafety or a constant need to be hyperaware. Insomnia, changes in appetite make matters worse because the body and mind don't get the needed fuel and rest leading to cycles of collapse. The anxiety and collapse cycle can cause us to feel disconnected from ourselves, loved ones and the world. We can lose trust in our own judgment and ability to heal. My approach is informed by a holistic integration of practices to help reconnect mind, body and soul.
It is so exhausting living inside a traumatized body and mind. Anxiety that seems to come out of nowhere; thoughts, feelings, and the overwhelm of re-experiencing events. Feelings of unsafety or a constant need to be hyperaware. Insomnia, changes in appetite make matters worse because the body and mind don't get the needed fuel and rest leading to cycles of collapse. The anxiety and collapse cycle can cause us to feel disconnected from ourselves, loved ones and the world. We can lose trust in our own judgment and ability to heal. My approach is informed by a holistic integration of practices to help reconnect mind, body and soul.
(805) 243-3980 View (805) 243-3980

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.