Photo of Beacon of Hope Counseling LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado Springs, CO
Beacon of Hope Counseling LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Colorado Springs, CO 80918
The team of clinicians at Beacon of Hope specialize in treating a variety of different diagnosis including PTSD, Bipolar, Major Depression Disorder, Schizophrenia, Adjustment Disorders and Generalized Anxiety Disorder.
My name is Michelle Wright and I am the owner of Beacon of Hope Counseling, LLC. My past experiences and hope to help others led me to the field of counseling and creating Beacon of Hope Counseling. I have learned through the years life is filled with joyous moments and then periods of difficulty and uncertainty. When experiencing life's barriers one can feel anxious, stuck, overwhelmed, depressed and even hopeless. Past events and trauma can also become barriers in us being our best selves. In these moments counseling can be helpful in gaining insight and learning ways to best cope.
The team of clinicians at Beacon of Hope specialize in treating a variety of different diagnosis including PTSD, Bipolar, Major Depression Disorder, Schizophrenia, Adjustment Disorders and Generalized Anxiety Disorder.
My name is Michelle Wright and I am the owner of Beacon of Hope Counseling, LLC. My past experiences and hope to help others led me to the field of counseling and creating Beacon of Hope Counseling. I have learned through the years life is filled with joyous moments and then periods of difficulty and uncertainty. When experiencing life's barriers one can feel anxious, stuck, overwhelmed, depressed and even hopeless. Past events and trauma can also become barriers in us being our best selves. In these moments counseling can be helpful in gaining insight and learning ways to best cope.
(719) 223-4892 View (719) 223-4892
Photo of Kaitlyn Carr, Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado Springs, CO
Kaitlyn Carr
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Colorado Springs, CO 80918  (Online Only)
I especially enjoy working with older teens and young adult women. I enjoy working with women who are struggling with symptoms of Borderline Personality Disorder and Bipolar Disorder. I also work with anxiety, depression, self esteem problems, and a wide variety of others issues.
I especially enjoy working with older teens and young adult women. I enjoy working with women who are struggling with symptoms of Borderline Personality Disorder and Bipolar Disorder. I also work with anxiety, depression, self esteem problems, and a wide variety of others issues.
(719) 350-6867 View (719) 350-6867
Photo of John B Evans Phd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Colorado Springs, CO
John B Evans Phd
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Colorado Springs, CO 80904  (Online Only)
Do you not understand your behavior or that of other family members whether that of your present family or childhood family? Are you unhappy in your relationship for known or unknown reasons? Are you experiencing parent-child conflict? Is there any anger, abuse, substance abuse, depression, bipolar, etc.
Dr. John B. Evans earned a PhD and two masters degrees in the behavioral sciences. Dr. Evans is a published author, title: Why You Do That (amazon.com) and was an adjunct professor in social work for five years. Dr. Evans has concentrated in multiple areas including family systems, personalities, individual/couples/family therapy, group therapy, difficult or abusive relationships, parent / child conflict, stress management, and substance abuse. Dr. Evans trained other therapists in Dallas for years. Dr. Evans emphasizes self-awareness and family awareness. Therapy with Dr. Evans is very different from therapy with other therapists.
Do you not understand your behavior or that of other family members whether that of your present family or childhood family? Are you unhappy in your relationship for known or unknown reasons? Are you experiencing parent-child conflict? Is there any anger, abuse, substance abuse, depression, bipolar, etc.
Dr. John B. Evans earned a PhD and two masters degrees in the behavioral sciences. Dr. Evans is a published author, title: Why You Do That (amazon.com) and was an adjunct professor in social work for five years. Dr. Evans has concentrated in multiple areas including family systems, personalities, individual/couples/family therapy, group therapy, difficult or abusive relationships, parent / child conflict, stress management, and substance abuse. Dr. Evans trained other therapists in Dallas for years. Dr. Evans emphasizes self-awareness and family awareness. Therapy with Dr. Evans is very different from therapy with other therapists.
(719) 496-8181 View (719) 496-8181
Photo of James Cardinal, Registered Psychotherapist in Colorado Springs, CO
James Cardinal
Registered Psychotherapist, MS, MBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80917
I work successfully with clients struggling with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, family conflicts, trauma and grief survivors.
Asking for help can be difficulty but this is a major step you have to take towards your recovery. I believe everyone should be listened to, respected and deserve a kind/compassionate therapist like myself that can help them as they struggle at some point in their lives. Counseling is a great resource to help an individual through the crisis, and can empower you to make changes in your relationships, personal and life decisions. I will strive to create an empowering therapeutic environment to help you achieve these goals. My overall goal is to give you the skills and tools needed to become the overall best version of you! Reach out!
I work successfully with clients struggling with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, family conflicts, trauma and grief survivors.
Asking for help can be difficulty but this is a major step you have to take towards your recovery. I believe everyone should be listened to, respected and deserve a kind/compassionate therapist like myself that can help them as they struggle at some point in their lives. Counseling is a great resource to help an individual through the crisis, and can empower you to make changes in your relationships, personal and life decisions. I will strive to create an empowering therapeutic environment to help you achieve these goals. My overall goal is to give you the skills and tools needed to become the overall best version of you! Reach out!
(719) 215-9165 View (719) 215-9165
Photo of Melton Counseling LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado Springs, CO
Melton Counseling LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Colorado Springs, CO 80909
I have worked with clients suffering with Anxiety, Depression, Personality disorders, DHS involvement, Bipolar Disorder, Psychosis, and Autism.
I am a licensed Professional Counselor with over 19 years experience. Over the years I have had the opportunity to work with clients with many challenges. I know how quickly things can happen and forever change our lives. If you have decided that now is the time to reach out and let a professional come into your life I would be happy to be that person to help you along your journey. I offer initial assessments to give us the opportunity to get acquainted.
I have worked with clients suffering with Anxiety, Depression, Personality disorders, DHS involvement, Bipolar Disorder, Psychosis, and Autism.
I am a licensed Professional Counselor with over 19 years experience. Over the years I have had the opportunity to work with clients with many challenges. I know how quickly things can happen and forever change our lives. If you have decided that now is the time to reach out and let a professional come into your life I would be happy to be that person to help you along your journey. I offer initial assessments to give us the opportunity to get acquainted.
(719) 387-4808 View (719) 387-4808
Photo of Center for Valued Living, PLLC in Colorado Springs, CO
Center for Valued Living, PLLC
PsyD, LPC, LCSW, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
Colorado Springs, CO 80920
Common Issues or Specialties: Adults, Children/Adolescents/Teens, Family, Depression, Anxiety, Mood Disorders, Trauma/PTSD, Bipolar, Relationship problems, Couples, EMDR, CBT, DBT, play therapy, work/school stress; Identity issues; panic, grief/loss, work comp.
We are a group of highly-qualified mental health therapists serving all over CO via telehealth and in-person (offices in Aurora). Our licensed therapists and supervised LPCC/SWC/intern providers take most insurances including Medicaid. See c4vl.com or photo gallery for details on our clinicians, & specialties, insurances. We are committed to anti-racist, neurodivergent-affirming, and GLBTQIA+ allied practice. We have providers who speak Spanish, French, and Russian. Hablamos Espanol tambien! Email us with this info: In-person or telehealth, Insurance, Age, describe needs to be addressed.
Common Issues or Specialties: Adults, Children/Adolescents/Teens, Family, Depression, Anxiety, Mood Disorders, Trauma/PTSD, Bipolar, Relationship problems, Couples, EMDR, CBT, DBT, play therapy, work/school stress; Identity issues; panic, grief/loss, work comp.
We are a group of highly-qualified mental health therapists serving all over CO via telehealth and in-person (offices in Aurora). Our licensed therapists and supervised LPCC/SWC/intern providers take most insurances including Medicaid. See c4vl.com or photo gallery for details on our clinicians, & specialties, insurances. We are committed to anti-racist, neurodivergent-affirming, and GLBTQIA+ allied practice. We have providers who speak Spanish, French, and Russian. Hablamos Espanol tambien! Email us with this info: In-person or telehealth, Insurance, Age, describe needs to be addressed.
(970) 715-8004 View (970) 715-8004
Photo of Karla Rae Ver Meer, Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado Springs, CO
Karla Rae Ver Meer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Colorado Springs, CO 80918
Now licensed in Alabama, Colorado and Texas! After 13 years of private practice in Colorado, my Alabama office is open! Education & learning new skills are significant components of my approach. I'm relational & easy to talk to about even the most difficult issues of life. I specialize in trauma, depression, anxiety, personality disorders, spiritual & relational issues, & severe mental illnesses, such as bipolar disorder. I am certified in EMDR. Pysch & personality assessments are available to identify strengths & areas for growth. I enjoy working with teens & adults, male or female. I love to renew hope when it seems lost.
Now licensed in Alabama, Colorado and Texas! After 13 years of private practice in Colorado, my Alabama office is open! Education & learning new skills are significant components of my approach. I'm relational & easy to talk to about even the most difficult issues of life. I specialize in trauma, depression, anxiety, personality disorders, spiritual & relational issues, & severe mental illnesses, such as bipolar disorder. I am certified in EMDR. Pysch & personality assessments are available to identify strengths & areas for growth. I enjoy working with teens & adults, male or female. I love to renew hope when it seems lost.
(719) 660-8099 View (719) 660-8099
Photo of Deborah Anne Galaska, Psychologist in Colorado Springs, CO
Deborah Anne Galaska
Psychologist, PsyD, LMFT, EMDRII
Verified Verified
Colorado Springs, CO 80920  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in -borderline, narcissistic or OC personality disorders -dissociative disorders -trauma/abuse histories -dissociative disorders -bipolar disorder -self-harming/suicidality -loss of a loved one to suicide -unsuccessful or harmful previous therapy.
I invite you to take the next step in your unique journey toward wholeness and healing. I believe that coming in for therapy is a sign of hope and empowerment. My general approach is to begin by working with you to create a safe space in which we discover how best to meet your goals at a pace that works for you. I am interested in uncovering the patterns in your life, helping you develop a deeper awareness of who you are, and working with you to become more effective and create a meaningful life that brings you happiness.
I specialize in -borderline, narcissistic or OC personality disorders -dissociative disorders -trauma/abuse histories -dissociative disorders -bipolar disorder -self-harming/suicidality -loss of a loved one to suicide -unsuccessful or harmful previous therapy.
I invite you to take the next step in your unique journey toward wholeness and healing. I believe that coming in for therapy is a sign of hope and empowerment. My general approach is to begin by working with you to create a safe space in which we discover how best to meet your goals at a pace that works for you. I am interested in uncovering the patterns in your life, helping you develop a deeper awareness of who you are, and working with you to become more effective and create a meaningful life that brings you happiness.
(719) 646-7854 View (719) 646-7854
Photo of Consuelo I Mockerman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado Springs, CO
Consuelo I Mockerman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Colorado Springs, CO 80911  (Online Only)
Do you feel depressed, lonely, angry, anxious, stressed out, or empty? Are these issues getting between you and reaching your goals? it is time to seek help. This is the first step to healing. I specialized in working with individuals who experience PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Personality Disorders and Anxiety.
Do you feel depressed, lonely, angry, anxious, stressed out, or empty? Are these issues getting between you and reaching your goals? it is time to seek help. This is the first step to healing. I specialized in working with individuals who experience PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Personality Disorders and Anxiety.
(719) 751-8121 View (719) 751-8121
Photo of Andrea Pacheco, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Colorado Springs, CO
Andrea Pacheco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80918
I have always had a genuine interest in the uniqueness and well-being of others. I believe that we can all grow from the situations we have experienced. Whether that experience be divorce, abuse, addiction, or trauma of some sort. Our brains & bodies have a way of healing themselves through processing. Certain experiences can cause us to feel alone, anxious, sad, depressed, unmotivated, angry, violated, exposed, and at times emotionally unstable. Here in therapy I walk the journey with you as we work through emotions, gain insight, and create more beneficial perspectives. I provide a space of safety, understanding, and compassion.
I have always had a genuine interest in the uniqueness and well-being of others. I believe that we can all grow from the situations we have experienced. Whether that experience be divorce, abuse, addiction, or trauma of some sort. Our brains & bodies have a way of healing themselves through processing. Certain experiences can cause us to feel alone, anxious, sad, depressed, unmotivated, angry, violated, exposed, and at times emotionally unstable. Here in therapy I walk the journey with you as we work through emotions, gain insight, and create more beneficial perspectives. I provide a space of safety, understanding, and compassion.
(719) 301-1944 View (719) 301-1944
Photo of Nexus Counseling Services, Pre-Licensed Professional in Colorado Springs, CO
Nexus Counseling Services
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
Colorado Springs, CO 80911
I approach my work with clients by meeting you where you are and building a trusting, working relationship that honors your story and experiences. I want to truly listen to understand and come alongside you in your journey to wellness. This viewpoint speaks to a phrase I've developed that also guides my life, "Our perspective on issues coming our way will determine if we live an adventurous or miserable life."
I approach my work with clients by meeting you where you are and building a trusting, working relationship that honors your story and experiences. I want to truly listen to understand and come alongside you in your journey to wellness. This viewpoint speaks to a phrase I've developed that also guides my life, "Our perspective on issues coming our way will determine if we live an adventurous or miserable life."
(719) 298-3423 View (719) 298-3423
Photo of Joanie Lewis, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Colorado Springs, CO
Joanie Lewis
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LPC, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80903
I graduated with a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from The Colorado College and a Master's Degree in Psychology from Regis University. I am dually credentialed as a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Licensed Addiction Counselor specializing in developing comprehensive treatment plans for the treatment of co-occurring disorders. My treatment focus has developed into a specialty area in treating trauma issues using body-focused somatic treatments including being a Level II EMDR certified clinician, and the incorporation of evidenced-based therapies such as CBT and DBT allowing more depth of resources in addressing individuals with life challenges.
I graduated with a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from The Colorado College and a Master's Degree in Psychology from Regis University. I am dually credentialed as a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Licensed Addiction Counselor specializing in developing comprehensive treatment plans for the treatment of co-occurring disorders. My treatment focus has developed into a specialty area in treating trauma issues using body-focused somatic treatments including being a Level II EMDR certified clinician, and the incorporation of evidenced-based therapies such as CBT and DBT allowing more depth of resources in addressing individuals with life challenges.
(719) 793-0025 View (719) 793-0025
Photo of Karissa Wight, Marriage & Family Therapist in Colorado Springs, CO
Karissa Wight
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80920
Anymore we all struggle with our emotions and being comfortable to express ourselves, feeling vaildated and still being able to cope and manage through our circumstances. I am trained in DBT (dialectical behavioral therapy) for youth and adults, working on suicidal ideation, self harm and coping skills to sustain healthy behavior. Finding a balance between acceptance of who we are and finding the ability to change. I have also worked with clients doing life skills, family preservation and parenting - to work on family Dynamics and how to create a more stable homeostasis/balance for the family
Anymore we all struggle with our emotions and being comfortable to express ourselves, feeling vaildated and still being able to cope and manage through our circumstances. I am trained in DBT (dialectical behavioral therapy) for youth and adults, working on suicidal ideation, self harm and coping skills to sustain healthy behavior. Finding a balance between acceptance of who we are and finding the ability to change. I have also worked with clients doing life skills, family preservation and parenting - to work on family Dynamics and how to create a more stable homeostasis/balance for the family
(719) 223-4518 View (719) 223-4518
Photo of Erik Schlimmer – Outcome Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Colorado Springs, CO
Erik Schlimmer – Outcome Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80906  (Online Only)
Life is hard. Maybe you’ve been trying to do it on your own, yet it's not working out. What helps is processing life’s complications with someone who’s professional yet personable. I'm an award-winning provider and former supervisor who's held nearly 3,000 individual sessions, and I'm a person who "gets" others.
Life is hard. Maybe you’ve been trying to do it on your own, yet it's not working out. What helps is processing life’s complications with someone who’s professional yet personable. I'm an award-winning provider and former supervisor who's held nearly 3,000 individual sessions, and I'm a person who "gets" others.
(719) 249-7265 View (719) 249-7265
Photo of Sandi Lynn Forsythe, Marriage & Family Therapist in Colorado Springs, CO
Sandi Lynn Forsythe
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, EDIT-1, BSP, KAP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80906  (Online Only)
What has been your journey in life thus far? Life's journey can pull you in various directions. The experiences and events we encounter along our journey are unique to us, and influence who we are, how we interact with others and the world around us. It can be difficult to navigate the journey and we may need help in doing so. I believe a trusting therapeutic relationship is the first step in beginning your healing journey. I offer a unique and integrative approach to healing, and work with couples and individuals. I specialize in navigating the complexities of marital/family conflict, trauma, anxiety, and eating disorders.
What has been your journey in life thus far? Life's journey can pull you in various directions. The experiences and events we encounter along our journey are unique to us, and influence who we are, how we interact with others and the world around us. It can be difficult to navigate the journey and we may need help in doing so. I believe a trusting therapeutic relationship is the first step in beginning your healing journey. I offer a unique and integrative approach to healing, and work with couples and individuals. I specialize in navigating the complexities of marital/family conflict, trauma, anxiety, and eating disorders.
(719) 292-4690 View (719) 292-4690
Photo of A'nna Jurich, Counselor in Colorado Springs, CO
A'nna Jurich
Counselor, MS, LCPC, LPC, CRADC
Verified Verified
Colorado Springs, CO 80904  (Online Only)
I love helping people overcome struggles so that they can fully enjoy life as it is meant to be! Things happen, and sometimes even our best efforts aren’t enough to change behavior patterns or to let go of events, losses, or fears. Everyone can heal and change. I will listen to your unique story and help guide you to freedom from your struggles.
I love helping people overcome struggles so that they can fully enjoy life as it is meant to be! Things happen, and sometimes even our best efforts aren’t enough to change behavior patterns or to let go of events, losses, or fears. Everyone can heal and change. I will listen to your unique story and help guide you to freedom from your struggles.
(719) 624-0843 View (719) 624-0843
Photo of Emily Starkey, Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado Springs, CO
Emily Starkey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80903  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Emily strives to invite individuals, couples, or families to come as they are, to feel safe, to bring the trauma, life stressors, anxiety and also life joys to a safe place. Emily understands that partaking in any therapy process can be challenging to start, and she commends you for taking the first steps to taking control over your life and mental health. Emily has eight years of working with children, adolescents, young adults, and families in the mental health field. Emily believes it is important to provide trauma-informed practice and a person-centered holistic approach to her therapy sessions.
Emily strives to invite individuals, couples, or families to come as they are, to feel safe, to bring the trauma, life stressors, anxiety and also life joys to a safe place. Emily understands that partaking in any therapy process can be challenging to start, and she commends you for taking the first steps to taking control over your life and mental health. Emily has eight years of working with children, adolescents, young adults, and families in the mental health field. Emily believes it is important to provide trauma-informed practice and a person-centered holistic approach to her therapy sessions.
(719) 733-9657 View (719) 733-9657
Photo of Michelle Lynn Vrooman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Colorado Springs, CO
Michelle Lynn Vrooman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80909
I have been a therapist for 25 years and love what I do! I am a strengths based therapist and believe in my client's ability to make positive changes in their lives. I provide Psychotherapy to treat depression and anxiety through coping skills, life coaching, and addressing relationship concerns. I also provide trauma treatment through EMDR. EMDR is a powerful intervention and I have seen first hand how it changes people's lives. My hope is help people become free from the burdens of the past and become their true selves. Please contact me via email as it is the most efficient way for me to get back to you. Thanks
I have been a therapist for 25 years and love what I do! I am a strengths based therapist and believe in my client's ability to make positive changes in their lives. I provide Psychotherapy to treat depression and anxiety through coping skills, life coaching, and addressing relationship concerns. I also provide trauma treatment through EMDR. EMDR is a powerful intervention and I have seen first hand how it changes people's lives. My hope is help people become free from the burdens of the past and become their true selves. Please contact me via email as it is the most efficient way for me to get back to you. Thanks
(719) 387-4752 View (719) 387-4752
Photo of Candace Rodgers, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Colorado Springs, CO
Candace Rodgers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80918
My goal is not to make you forget your past or the people in your past but to help you make those experiences a healthy part of your future life. The past should be something we can live with, a place to start and build a better tomorrow. I believe you are the key healing.
My goal is not to make you forget your past or the people in your past but to help you make those experiences a healthy part of your future life. The past should be something we can live with, a place to start and build a better tomorrow. I believe you are the key healing.
(970) 367-1226 View (970) 367-1226
Photo of Jordan De Jong, Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado Springs, CO
Jordan De Jong
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Colorado Springs, CO 80918
Wondering how to overcome and modify your current situation? Struggling to find hope and direction? I work with each individual to determine your own goals and define a purpose to help you outline ways to better manage your current situation. I use an eclectic approach to meet you where you are, set goals and determine manageable and reasonable ways to set boundaries, accept yourself and grow in the way that you desire to become healthier and more at peace. I have experience working with anxiety, life transitions, addictions, trauma, boundary setting, eating disorders, self acceptance and self-care.
Wondering how to overcome and modify your current situation? Struggling to find hope and direction? I work with each individual to determine your own goals and define a purpose to help you outline ways to better manage your current situation. I use an eclectic approach to meet you where you are, set goals and determine manageable and reasonable ways to set boundaries, accept yourself and grow in the way that you desire to become healthier and more at peace. I have experience working with anxiety, life transitions, addictions, trauma, boundary setting, eating disorders, self acceptance and self-care.
(719) 624-3560 View (719) 624-3560

See more therapy options for Colorado Springs

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.