Photo of Ashanti Gosha, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Ashanti Gosha
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80220
I have experience with depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders, bipolar disorder and more.
Hi, my name is Ashanti Gosha. Therapy can be a hard first step for many people. My style of therapy is a collaborative approach where you can be authentic in a safe space free of shame and judgement. We will work together with you as the driver to help navigate any mental health challenges with me offering insight and interventions that will help you along the way. I have an integrative approach to therapy which means I work with everyone to assess their goals and needs of therapy, and I combine skills from various treatment modalities that best fits client’s need.
I have experience with depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders, bipolar disorder and more.
Hi, my name is Ashanti Gosha. Therapy can be a hard first step for many people. My style of therapy is a collaborative approach where you can be authentic in a safe space free of shame and judgement. We will work together with you as the driver to help navigate any mental health challenges with me offering insight and interventions that will help you along the way. I have an integrative approach to therapy which means I work with everyone to assess their goals and needs of therapy, and I combine skills from various treatment modalities that best fits client’s need.
(720) 459-9161 View (720) 459-9161
Photo of Jay Ryser, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Jay Ryser
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80210  (Online Only)
Struggling with depression or anxiety? Find yourself avoiding things rather than dealing with them? Find yourself beating yourself up on a regular basis? We can work on that. I have over 30 years of experience working with adults with depression and anxiety (mood disorders - major depression & bipolar and anxiety disorders - panic disorder, generalized anxiety, OCD, phobias, etc.). I tend to take a Here & Now approach, focusing on not just talking, but taking action to make changes. I'm only doing teletherapy currently.
Struggling with depression or anxiety? Find yourself avoiding things rather than dealing with them? Find yourself beating yourself up on a regular basis? We can work on that. I have over 30 years of experience working with adults with depression and anxiety (mood disorders - major depression & bipolar and anxiety disorders - panic disorder, generalized anxiety, OCD, phobias, etc.). I tend to take a Here & Now approach, focusing on not just talking, but taking action to make changes. I'm only doing teletherapy currently.
(720) 410-5399 View (720) 410-5399
Photo of J Lewis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denver, CO
J J Lewis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80002  (Online Only)
Focused on adults, my online-only practice serves individuals experiencing Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, & other stressors.
Psychotherapy is a confidential and creative relationship where you may find the power to heal, grow, explore, deepen, and transform. I believe in treatment that is engaging, dynamic, inspiring, and integrated where the provider is supportive, humble, inquiring, inquisitive, challenging, and honest. You may be experiencing life at the harshest, most cruel moment or suffering where no one seems to understand. Emotional distress from depression, anxiety, anger, grief, loss, and trauma often feels much worse than any physical pain. Perhaps you want to make a change, expand your relationships and find meaning in your world.
Focused on adults, my online-only practice serves individuals experiencing Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, & other stressors.
Psychotherapy is a confidential and creative relationship where you may find the power to heal, grow, explore, deepen, and transform. I believe in treatment that is engaging, dynamic, inspiring, and integrated where the provider is supportive, humble, inquiring, inquisitive, challenging, and honest. You may be experiencing life at the harshest, most cruel moment or suffering where no one seems to understand. Emotional distress from depression, anxiety, anger, grief, loss, and trauma often feels much worse than any physical pain. Perhaps you want to make a change, expand your relationships and find meaning in your world.
(970) 239-8496 View (970) 239-8496
Photo of Your Wellness Journey LLC in Denver, CO
Your Wellness Journey LLC
MD, MSPH, FASAM
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80222
In the Denver, Colorado, office, patients find a sanctuary where they can get personalized help for anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, other mental health challenges, and the substance use struggles that often accompany them.
Thanks for visiting! My professional experience encompasses Addiction Medicine, General Psychiatry, and Preventive Medicine. I created the Your Wellness Journey Center, a place where we strive to help our patients to achieve wellness through evidence-based psychiatric and substance use recovery care, integrating Western and Eastern Medicine approaches. Our services are professional, personable, and based on methods proven to help you achieve sustainable recovery from substance use and mental health problems in a holistic way.
In the Denver, Colorado, office, patients find a sanctuary where they can get personalized help for anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, other mental health challenges, and the substance use struggles that often accompany them.
Thanks for visiting! My professional experience encompasses Addiction Medicine, General Psychiatry, and Preventive Medicine. I created the Your Wellness Journey Center, a place where we strive to help our patients to achieve wellness through evidence-based psychiatric and substance use recovery care, integrating Western and Eastern Medicine approaches. Our services are professional, personable, and based on methods proven to help you achieve sustainable recovery from substance use and mental health problems in a holistic way.
(303) 489-1799 View (303) 489-1799
Photo of Regina Kearney, LCSW, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denver, CO
Regina Kearney, LCSW, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80218
I am passionate about the work I do and truly enjoy helping people cope with, and move forward from, the issues that lead them to counseling. I offer individual and family therapy to teens and adults. Specialties include: anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar depression, trauma, grief and loss, relationship problems, and life transitions. You can expect that in our work together I will provide compassionate, honest and effective feedback, education and skills coaching that supports attaining your goals. I believe in focusing on the strengths you already possess and solutions that will work.
I am passionate about the work I do and truly enjoy helping people cope with, and move forward from, the issues that lead them to counseling. I offer individual and family therapy to teens and adults. Specialties include: anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar depression, trauma, grief and loss, relationship problems, and life transitions. You can expect that in our work together I will provide compassionate, honest and effective feedback, education and skills coaching that supports attaining your goals. I believe in focusing on the strengths you already possess and solutions that will work.
(720) 758-0986 View (720) 758-0986
Photo of Bianca Massara, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denver, CO
Bianca Massara
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80223
My background includes: extensive work in Community Mental Health, working with a myriad of diverse adult populations; work with Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Adjustment Disorders, Self-Esteem, PTSD, Traumatic Brain Injury, Bipolar Disorder, and specializing in those seeking Ketamine Assisted Therapy, Psychedelic Integration/Psychedelic Assisted Therapy.
Choosing to heal is a brave decision, the work can be difficult, but you do not have to do it alone. I believe it is an honor to hold space for others in their healing, and this space allows individuals to move through healing while feeling supported. I approach each client with humility, care, kindness, and openness. I take pride in creating and providing an inclusive space for others to feel safe, and to fully express their authentic self.
My background includes: extensive work in Community Mental Health, working with a myriad of diverse adult populations; work with Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Adjustment Disorders, Self-Esteem, PTSD, Traumatic Brain Injury, Bipolar Disorder, and specializing in those seeking Ketamine Assisted Therapy, Psychedelic Integration/Psychedelic Assisted Therapy.
Choosing to heal is a brave decision, the work can be difficult, but you do not have to do it alone. I believe it is an honor to hold space for others in their healing, and this space allows individuals to move through healing while feeling supported. I approach each client with humility, care, kindness, and openness. I take pride in creating and providing an inclusive space for others to feel safe, and to fully express their authentic self.
(303) 951-4930 View (303) 951-4930
Photo of Jack Williams, Pre-Licensed Professional in Denver, CO
Jack Williams
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80211
I help adults with anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, adjustment issues, insomnia, ADHD, grief and loss, perfectionism, self-esteem, relationship struggles, panic, social anxiety, obsessive and compulsive disorder (OCD) and trauma.
Therapy gives us the chance to see ourselves, our relationships, and the world in a different way. Therapy also helps us build the skills necessary to achieve our goals. My approach to therapy is collaborative, goal oriented, and focused on building a strong therapeutic relationship that creates and environment of trust and respect that allows us to grow and solve problems together. Challenges always look the most difficult when you are facing them alone and I want to be there to help you when you’re facing your biggest challenges.
I help adults with anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, adjustment issues, insomnia, ADHD, grief and loss, perfectionism, self-esteem, relationship struggles, panic, social anxiety, obsessive and compulsive disorder (OCD) and trauma.
Therapy gives us the chance to see ourselves, our relationships, and the world in a different way. Therapy also helps us build the skills necessary to achieve our goals. My approach to therapy is collaborative, goal oriented, and focused on building a strong therapeutic relationship that creates and environment of trust and respect that allows us to grow and solve problems together. Challenges always look the most difficult when you are facing them alone and I want to be there to help you when you’re facing your biggest challenges.
(720) 784-5394 View (720) 784-5394
Photo of Rachel Calderon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denver, CO
Rachel Calderon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80220  (Online Only)
I predominantly work with trauma, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, race related trauma, and with those in the LGBT+ community.
Welcome ! I have been a therapist for 10 years and truly enjoy the work I do. I hope to provide a non-judgmental and supportive environment as you process and learn evidence based, mental health skills. I love to work with clients of all backgrounds and value cultural humility in the therapeutic setting, above all else.
I predominantly work with trauma, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, race related trauma, and with those in the LGBT+ community.
Welcome ! I have been a therapist for 10 years and truly enjoy the work I do. I hope to provide a non-judgmental and supportive environment as you process and learn evidence based, mental health skills. I love to work with clients of all backgrounds and value cultural humility in the therapeutic setting, above all else.
(720) 594-2451 View (720) 594-2451
Photo of Christa Shepherd, Counselor in Denver, CO
Christa Shepherd
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80209
Waitlist for new clients
I have experience working with college students, people recovering from addictions, adjusting to life changes, processing spiritual hurt, and pursuing health amidst struggles with depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorders.
You don't always have to feel the way you're feeling now. Maybe you've become aware of some hurts or trauma that are holding you back from living a full life. Maybe you are going through vocational difficulties, relationship strain, or find yourself doing things you really don't want to do over and over again. Maybe things are alright but you wonder if there is just something more to life or to who you are. You're ready to make changes, or maybe just to explore what growth could be like. Welcome! There is hope here.
I have experience working with college students, people recovering from addictions, adjusting to life changes, processing spiritual hurt, and pursuing health amidst struggles with depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorders.
You don't always have to feel the way you're feeling now. Maybe you've become aware of some hurts or trauma that are holding you back from living a full life. Maybe you are going through vocational difficulties, relationship strain, or find yourself doing things you really don't want to do over and over again. Maybe things are alright but you wonder if there is just something more to life or to who you are. You're ready to make changes, or maybe just to explore what growth could be like. Welcome! There is hope here.
(720) 730-5065 View (720) 730-5065
Photo of Jamie Kinley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denver, CO
Jamie Kinley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80224
Life can be really hard, and sometimes the hardest part is asking for help. Humans are complicated, social beings who have been cut off from society and routine for the past two years. If you have a history of mental illness, relationship issues, identity concerns, mood changes, or life transitions, those feelings may have been exacerbated by our current world. If you are ready to ask for help, let me offer a relaxed, non - judgmental space to provide mental wellness. I have worked for close to a decade with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and personality disorders.
Life can be really hard, and sometimes the hardest part is asking for help. Humans are complicated, social beings who have been cut off from society and routine for the past two years. If you have a history of mental illness, relationship issues, identity concerns, mood changes, or life transitions, those feelings may have been exacerbated by our current world. If you are ready to ask for help, let me offer a relaxed, non - judgmental space to provide mental wellness. I have worked for close to a decade with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and personality disorders.
(303) 353-0378 View (303) 353-0378
Photo of Kristin N Gearhart, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Kristin N Gearhart
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80231
I specialize in treating trauma/PTSD, depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety,parenting and relationship issues, military issues and personality disorders. I enjoy working with people of all ages, in individual, family and couples counseling and have experience working with military members and their families.
I specialize in treating trauma/PTSD, depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety,parenting and relationship issues, military issues and personality disorders. I enjoy working with people of all ages, in individual, family and couples counseling and have experience working with military members and their families.
(720) 809-7815 View (720) 809-7815
Photo of Peaceful Journies Counseling and Supervision, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Peaceful Journies Counseling and Supervision
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, PMH-C, MHA
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80211  (Online Only)
I am certified in DBT, Pregnancy & Postpartum Depression/Anxiety/Mood Disorders, Borderline Personality Disorder, anxiety, depression, and Bipolar Disorder.
My career began working in the community mental health which allowed me to gain vast experience&knowledge of various therapy skills&tools.My passion is helping women of all identities transition into their idea of motherhood gracefully.I am certified in treating disorders associated with the pregnancy/postpartum period, Personality Disorders, mood disorders, parenting concerns, life stressors, & women’s health concerns. I enjoy working with women of all ages&identities facing difficult life transitions. Now offering clinical supervision for LPC and LPCC in Colorado.
I am certified in DBT, Pregnancy & Postpartum Depression/Anxiety/Mood Disorders, Borderline Personality Disorder, anxiety, depression, and Bipolar Disorder.
My career began working in the community mental health which allowed me to gain vast experience&knowledge of various therapy skills&tools.My passion is helping women of all identities transition into their idea of motherhood gracefully.I am certified in treating disorders associated with the pregnancy/postpartum period, Personality Disorders, mood disorders, parenting concerns, life stressors, & women’s health concerns. I enjoy working with women of all ages&identities facing difficult life transitions. Now offering clinical supervision for LPC and LPCC in Colorado.
(970) 235-9019 View (970) 235-9019
Photo of Jonathan Mindas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denver, CO
Jonathan Mindas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80238
I work very well with individuals with diagnosis of borderline personality disorder, PTSD, and bipolar disorder.
I am a Licensed clinical mental health and substance use therapist with 12+ years of experience in person centered therapeutic strategies, trauma based work, and cognitive behavioral mindfulness. I believe that understanding how we interact within our own environment greatly impacts our thoughts, feelings, and actions. It is a privilege to work with you as we navigate and better understand our mental health.
I work very well with individuals with diagnosis of borderline personality disorder, PTSD, and bipolar disorder.
I am a Licensed clinical mental health and substance use therapist with 12+ years of experience in person centered therapeutic strategies, trauma based work, and cognitive behavioral mindfulness. I believe that understanding how we interact within our own environment greatly impacts our thoughts, feelings, and actions. It is a privilege to work with you as we navigate and better understand our mental health.
(720) 964-2224 View (720) 964-2224
Photo of Elysia Russell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denver, CO
Elysia Russell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80246  (Online Only)
My approach I use an integrative, non-judgmental approach to my therapy that can include Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), a well researched modality used to process trauma. I also utilize eclectic therapy, narrative therapy and always a trauma focused approach that will help with specific training and strategies to give you the tools you need for daily living. My focus I work with teens, adults and couples who suffer from Addiction, Alcohol Use, Anger Management, Anxiety, Behavioral Issues, Bipolar Disorder, Borderline Personality, Chronic Impulsivity, Codependency, Coping Skills, Depression, and many more.
My approach I use an integrative, non-judgmental approach to my therapy that can include Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), a well researched modality used to process trauma. I also utilize eclectic therapy, narrative therapy and always a trauma focused approach that will help with specific training and strategies to give you the tools you need for daily living. My focus I work with teens, adults and couples who suffer from Addiction, Alcohol Use, Anger Management, Anxiety, Behavioral Issues, Bipolar Disorder, Borderline Personality, Chronic Impulsivity, Codependency, Coping Skills, Depression, and many more.
(720) 782-8010 View (720) 782-8010
Photo of Adam Slack, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denver, CO
Adam Slack
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80246  (Online Only)
I bring over 14 years of experience in the mental health field into my therapy practice. I have experience working with individuals across the age spectrum and am skilled at partnering with clients to make positive changes in their lives. I am non-judgmental and meet people where they are at in their process. My experience encompasses clinical case management for persistent mental health concerns such as bipolar disorder and schizophrenia, to more traditional therapy practices for addressing depression, anxiety, trauma, and adjustment related concerns. I am also experienced in treating substance use disorders.
I bring over 14 years of experience in the mental health field into my therapy practice. I have experience working with individuals across the age spectrum and am skilled at partnering with clients to make positive changes in their lives. I am non-judgmental and meet people where they are at in their process. My experience encompasses clinical case management for persistent mental health concerns such as bipolar disorder and schizophrenia, to more traditional therapy practices for addressing depression, anxiety, trauma, and adjustment related concerns. I am also experienced in treating substance use disorders.
(720) 927-9682 View (720) 927-9682
Photo of Addy Danielle Oneil, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denver, CO
Addy Danielle Oneil
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SAC-IT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80223  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Addy is a licensed clinical social worker with over 10 years of experience in the field of mental health. Addy also holds her Substance Abuse Counseling in training license. Addy specializes in supporting individuals through the complexities of mental health, particularly those navigating the impacts of substance misuse, trauma, domestic violence, depression, anxiety, bipolar, ADHD, and difficult life transitions.
Addy is a licensed clinical social worker with over 10 years of experience in the field of mental health. Addy also holds her Substance Abuse Counseling in training license. Addy specializes in supporting individuals through the complexities of mental health, particularly those navigating the impacts of substance misuse, trauma, domestic violence, depression, anxiety, bipolar, ADHD, and difficult life transitions.
(262) 299-7466 View (262) 299-7466
Photo of Stephanie Metz, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Stephanie Metz
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LAC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80231  (Online Only)
The majority of my previous and current work focuses on helping clients reprocess past trauma, address and find relief from addiction, learn to better manage emotions and mood swings (depression, stress/anxiety, bipolar disorder), and navigate the many transitions of life, such as relationships, career changes, or grief and loss.
If you are seeking to resolve small inner challenges, make major changes to your life, or just adjust to a new normal, I would be honored to be part of your journey to a healthier life!
The majority of my previous and current work focuses on helping clients reprocess past trauma, address and find relief from addiction, learn to better manage emotions and mood swings (depression, stress/anxiety, bipolar disorder), and navigate the many transitions of life, such as relationships, career changes, or grief and loss.
If you are seeking to resolve small inner challenges, make major changes to your life, or just adjust to a new normal, I would be honored to be part of your journey to a healthier life!
(303) 529-1332 View (303) 529-1332
Photo of Patrick Jeter, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Patrick Jeter
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80246  (Online Only)
I have been working as a counselor (supervised by a licensed counselor, registered counselor and eventually as a fully Licensed Professional Counselor) since 2013. I primarily help young adults and adults who are struggling with depression, anxiety, symptoms of Bipolar 1 and 2 and/or substance use issues (combined with mood issues or addiction alone).
I have been working as a counselor (supervised by a licensed counselor, registered counselor and eventually as a fully Licensed Professional Counselor) since 2013. I primarily help young adults and adults who are struggling with depression, anxiety, symptoms of Bipolar 1 and 2 and/or substance use issues (combined with mood issues or addiction alone).
(720) 807-7484 View (720) 807-7484
Photo of Full Spectrum Therapeutic Services LLC, Psychologist in Denver, CO
Full Spectrum Therapeutic Services LLC
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80238
I am experienced dealing with depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar, children with behavioral issues, and also older adults.
I find that my clients appreciate being listened to with acceptance, and that the focus on strengths is key in my practice. I apply a variety of evidenced based best practices that I have found treat a diversity of populations and challenges. The clients that come to me are seeking to be able to function and achieve their goals. My clients are provided outstanding clinical support, engendering valued action by providing: assessment and diagnosis (including ADOS), individual treatment planning, and comprehensive intervention.
I am experienced dealing with depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar, children with behavioral issues, and also older adults.
I find that my clients appreciate being listened to with acceptance, and that the focus on strengths is key in my practice. I apply a variety of evidenced based best practices that I have found treat a diversity of populations and challenges. The clients that come to me are seeking to be able to function and achieve their goals. My clients are provided outstanding clinical support, engendering valued action by providing: assessment and diagnosis (including ADOS), individual treatment planning, and comprehensive intervention.
(720) 547-2238 View (720) 547-2238
Photo of Stacey M King, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Stacey M King
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC -IT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80210
I have been working with clients who suffer from, bipolar disorder, depression, borderline personality disorder.
As a licensed professional counselor, in specializing treating people, with mental health disorders. I have worked with clients who suffer, from major depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia clients. I have also worked with clients who suffer from borderline personality disorder. I have worked with children, adolescents, and adult clients. It's my duty, to make sure that you are coping well, with your mental health, and learning how to live a more fulfilling life. I will go out my way, to make sure my clients are getting what they need, to start to make healthier progress in their Everday life."
I have been working with clients who suffer from, bipolar disorder, depression, borderline personality disorder.
As a licensed professional counselor, in specializing treating people, with mental health disorders. I have worked with clients who suffer, from major depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia clients. I have also worked with clients who suffer from borderline personality disorder. I have worked with children, adolescents, and adult clients. It's my duty, to make sure that you are coping well, with your mental health, and learning how to live a more fulfilling life. I will go out my way, to make sure my clients are getting what they need, to start to make healthier progress in their Everday life."
(414) 622-7120 View (414) 622-7120
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.