Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Atlanta, GA

Photo of Dana M Lindsay, Licensed Professional Counselor in Atlanta, GA
Dana M Lindsay
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30305
Waitlist for new clients
I work with clients desiring help with bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, and trauma issues. I also offer counseling for goals/values clarification, later career/empty nest planning, codependency, relationship stress, and couples/premarital counseling. I believe in helping clients assess and appreciate their strengths in order for them to move forward toward achieving their goals. It is important to create a safe, non-judgmental environment in which clients may explore, share, and rebuild their own life stories.
I work with clients desiring help with bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, and trauma issues. I also offer counseling for goals/values clarification, later career/empty nest planning, codependency, relationship stress, and couples/premarital counseling. I believe in helping clients assess and appreciate their strengths in order for them to move forward toward achieving their goals. It is important to create a safe, non-judgmental environment in which clients may explore, share, and rebuild their own life stories.
(404) 666-8326 View (404) 666-8326
Photo of Mary Lengel, Licensed Professional Counselor in Atlanta, GA
Mary Lengel
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30324
I specialize in the treatment of thought disorders, mood disorders (Bipolar I & II Disorders, Depression), and anxiety disorders.
I provide a space where you can feel understood, supported and empowered. I truly believe that effective therapy is grounded in a genuine and collaborative relationship between the client and therapist. My style in session is conversational to help build connection, and I provide feedback in an empathetic and non-judgmental way. I can help you learn effective ways to manage difficult feelings, change problematic thought patterns, and address tendencies affecting your relationships and life. I can also help you gain insight into the connection between your past experiences and current issues so that you have lasting change.
I specialize in the treatment of thought disorders, mood disorders (Bipolar I & II Disorders, Depression), and anxiety disorders.
I provide a space where you can feel understood, supported and empowered. I truly believe that effective therapy is grounded in a genuine and collaborative relationship between the client and therapist. My style in session is conversational to help build connection, and I provide feedback in an empathetic and non-judgmental way. I can help you learn effective ways to manage difficult feelings, change problematic thought patterns, and address tendencies affecting your relationships and life. I can also help you gain insight into the connection between your past experiences and current issues so that you have lasting change.
(404) 869-2612 View (404) 869-2612
Photo of Trakeeta Patterson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Atlanta, GA
Trakeeta Patterson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30344
Has stress, anxiety, depression or anger been problematic for you? Has your ability to cope affected your daily living and/or relationships? Have you been diagnosed with bipolar schizophrenia or any other illness and has had difficulty accepting and managing your symptoms? Untreated mental illness can easily affect your health and well-being and often cause strain on important relationships. Help is out there! Get ready to live a more healthy and productive life!
Has stress, anxiety, depression or anger been problematic for you? Has your ability to cope affected your daily living and/or relationships? Have you been diagnosed with bipolar schizophrenia or any other illness and has had difficulty accepting and managing your symptoms? Untreated mental illness can easily affect your health and well-being and often cause strain on important relationships. Help is out there! Get ready to live a more healthy and productive life!
(404) 777-4478 View (404) 777-4478
Photo of Lisette M Infante, Licensed Professional Counselor in Atlanta, GA
Lisette M Infante
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30306  (Online Only)
I also have experience working with Mood disorders such as Bipolar disorder, Anxiety, and Depression.
My approach to helping people is first trying to really get to know someone and understand what may not be working for them in their lives. We have all been there where sometimes we just don't know what is going on, all we know is that something is not in sync with what we want it to be. I am going to be honest and genuine during our time together and help you move towards changes you want. I love humor so prepare for us to have a few laughs during our sessions while we work together.
I also have experience working with Mood disorders such as Bipolar disorder, Anxiety, and Depression.
My approach to helping people is first trying to really get to know someone and understand what may not be working for them in their lives. We have all been there where sometimes we just don't know what is going on, all we know is that something is not in sync with what we want it to be. I am going to be honest and genuine during our time together and help you move towards changes you want. I love humor so prepare for us to have a few laughs during our sessions while we work together.
(470) 375-0895 View (470) 375-0895
Photo of Tony Sykes, Licensed Professional Counselor in Atlanta, GA
Tony Sykes
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30319
Tony Sykes, LPC Tony Sykes is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Georgia who has been practicing since 2011. Tony is a clinician that serves individuals who have anxiety and depression. He works with individuals that are bipolar and teenagers and young adults who are trying to figure out who they are gender identity and sexuality wise. Tony is a part of the LGBTQIA community, so he wants to serve the community. Tony offers disability advocacy and HIV and STI processing. As you can see, Tony has many skills, plus some he didn't mention. Outside of work, Tony enjoys creativity and directing.
Tony Sykes, LPC Tony Sykes is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Georgia who has been practicing since 2011. Tony is a clinician that serves individuals who have anxiety and depression. He works with individuals that are bipolar and teenagers and young adults who are trying to figure out who they are gender identity and sexuality wise. Tony is a part of the LGBTQIA community, so he wants to serve the community. Tony offers disability advocacy and HIV and STI processing. As you can see, Tony has many skills, plus some he didn't mention. Outside of work, Tony enjoys creativity and directing.
(470) 837-2765 View (470) 837-2765
Photo of Laporshe Smith, Licensed Professional Counselor in Atlanta, GA
Laporshe Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30310
My name is Laporshe, I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 8 years of experience. My counseling style is pretty laid-back. I have been described as supportive, caring, and compassionate. I specialize in anxiety, bipolar disorder, coping skills, depression, mood disorders, grief, impulse control disorders, dissociative disorders, and psychosis. I believe there is no “one size fits all” type of therapy, I fit my style of therapy according to the need of my patients by using integrative approaches when it is suitable for my clients. My approach often utilizes a mix of CBT and ACT for a person-centered and supportive approach.
My name is Laporshe, I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 8 years of experience. My counseling style is pretty laid-back. I have been described as supportive, caring, and compassionate. I specialize in anxiety, bipolar disorder, coping skills, depression, mood disorders, grief, impulse control disorders, dissociative disorders, and psychosis. I believe there is no “one size fits all” type of therapy, I fit my style of therapy according to the need of my patients by using integrative approaches when it is suitable for my clients. My approach often utilizes a mix of CBT and ACT for a person-centered and supportive approach.
(470) 823-9452 View (470) 823-9452
Photo of Heather Willard, Licensed Professional Counselor in Atlanta, GA
Heather Willard
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30308
I am a licensed professional counselor with nine years of experience. I am well versed in Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy. I have specialized training in Bipolar Disorder, Mood Disorders, Trauma and PTSD, Child Abuse or Neglect, and Spirituality. My communication style includes empathy and openness. I encourage excellent communication skills and will teach you to achieve them. With excellent communication comes outstanding achievements and empowerment towards your mental health.
I am a licensed professional counselor with nine years of experience. I am well versed in Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy. I have specialized training in Bipolar Disorder, Mood Disorders, Trauma and PTSD, Child Abuse or Neglect, and Spirituality. My communication style includes empathy and openness. I encourage excellent communication skills and will teach you to achieve them. With excellent communication comes outstanding achievements and empowerment towards your mental health.
(678) 710-3621 View (678) 710-3621
Photo of Meagan Ross, Licensed Professional Counselor in Atlanta, GA
Meagan Ross
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30308  (Online Only)
Hello! I am Meagan, a therapist specializing in depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders, and working with at-risk youth. I primarily utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and solution-focused techniques in my practice. Depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorders can greatly impact your quality of life and daily functioning. My aim is to assist you in understanding and managing these conditions through evidence-based interventions.
Hello! I am Meagan, a therapist specializing in depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders, and working with at-risk youth. I primarily utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and solution-focused techniques in my practice. Depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorders can greatly impact your quality of life and daily functioning. My aim is to assist you in understanding and managing these conditions through evidence-based interventions.
(706) 841-9521 View (706) 841-9521
Photo of Louis Fuertes Boynton, Licensed Professional Counselor in Atlanta, GA
Louis Fuertes Boynton
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC, CPCS
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30318
My expertise is in helping people with addictions, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, anxiety and the mental health problems associated with a chronic health problem.
Do you feel stuck in life? Do you feel unhealthy and stressed out? My therapy focuses on positive psychology and how to help people find a healthy lifestyle. Using this model, I have developed a type of therapy that focuses on helping people achieve health in mind, body and soul. This work includes finding out what problems exist in a persons life, and working to solve the problems we all face in life (loss/grief, anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction and stress). My hope is that by finding solutions and working out those solutions life will get better.
My expertise is in helping people with addictions, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, anxiety and the mental health problems associated with a chronic health problem.
Do you feel stuck in life? Do you feel unhealthy and stressed out? My therapy focuses on positive psychology and how to help people find a healthy lifestyle. Using this model, I have developed a type of therapy that focuses on helping people achieve health in mind, body and soul. This work includes finding out what problems exist in a persons life, and working to solve the problems we all face in life (loss/grief, anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction and stress). My hope is that by finding solutions and working out those solutions life will get better.
(470) 400-8662 View (470) 400-8662
Photo of Mishele Walker, Licensed Professional Counselor in Atlanta, GA
Mishele Walker
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30328
I have treated borderline personality disorder, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and worked with couples successfully.
I’m a therapist who suffers, like you, with mental health issues at times. Our mental health isn’t always consistent throughout life. Life throws us curveballs. I’ve had the privilege of knowing the deepest thoughts of people and I have been gifted with knowing how to help. my practice includes a gifted child counselor as well, Tarra Ray.
I have treated borderline personality disorder, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and worked with couples successfully.
I’m a therapist who suffers, like you, with mental health issues at times. Our mental health isn’t always consistent throughout life. Life throws us curveballs. I’ve had the privilege of knowing the deepest thoughts of people and I have been gifted with knowing how to help. my practice includes a gifted child counselor as well, Tarra Ray.
(404) 649-0387 View (404) 649-0387
Photo of Jason W Byram, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Atlanta, GA
Jason W Byram
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30306  (Online Only)
My specialties are working with clients experiencing mood disorders (depression, bipolar), anxiety, stress management issues, and coping with life changes.
Please email me for fastest response. I enjoy helping Clients recognize their problems, gain insight into how their problems developed, and outfit them with tools to cope with and overcome those issues. What do you want out of life? What is preventing you from getting where you want to be? I am glad to listen, I am glad to talk, I am glad to meet you where you are in this journey of life. Change, improvement, peace of mind and genuine happiness are all attainable. Where would you like to begin? How can I help? Please email me on this page for a prompt response.
My specialties are working with clients experiencing mood disorders (depression, bipolar), anxiety, stress management issues, and coping with life changes.
Please email me for fastest response. I enjoy helping Clients recognize their problems, gain insight into how their problems developed, and outfit them with tools to cope with and overcome those issues. What do you want out of life? What is preventing you from getting where you want to be? I am glad to listen, I am glad to talk, I am glad to meet you where you are in this journey of life. Change, improvement, peace of mind and genuine happiness are all attainable. Where would you like to begin? How can I help? Please email me on this page for a prompt response.
(478) 227-4519 View (478) 227-4519
Photo of Corrine Jones-Williams, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Atlanta, GA
Corrine Jones-Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30309  (Online Only)
Corrine Jones-Williams is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who has been in the vast field of social work for more than nine years. Holding a Bachelor of Social Work degree from Livingstone College and a Master of Social Work from The University of South Carolina – Columbia. She is also certified as an Anger Management Specialist. Corrine possesses knowledge of numerous diagnoses from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV) including Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder(s), psychotic disorders and substance abuse and/or dependency.
Corrine Jones-Williams is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who has been in the vast field of social work for more than nine years. Holding a Bachelor of Social Work degree from Livingstone College and a Master of Social Work from The University of South Carolina – Columbia. She is also certified as an Anger Management Specialist. Corrine possesses knowledge of numerous diagnoses from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV) including Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder(s), psychotic disorders and substance abuse and/or dependency.
(478) 249-4460 View (478) 249-4460
Photo of Olivia Ellis, Associate Professional Counselor in Atlanta, GA
Olivia Ellis
Associate Professional Counselor, MS, LAPC, CRC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30309  (Online Only)
I specialize working with adolescents & young adults who experience BPD, Bipolar, anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationships, disordered eating, & stress.
I understand that therapy can feel overwhelming and intimidating! My goal is to support you in navigating those emotions and guide you on your healing journey. As a clinician, I believe in providing a safe space where you can freely express yourself without fear of judgment for your actions or for who you are as a person. I place great importance on building a strong therapeutic relationship with you, so that we can work together to create the best approach that meets your unique needs.
I specialize working with adolescents & young adults who experience BPD, Bipolar, anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationships, disordered eating, & stress.
I understand that therapy can feel overwhelming and intimidating! My goal is to support you in navigating those emotions and guide you on your healing journey. As a clinician, I believe in providing a safe space where you can freely express yourself without fear of judgment for your actions or for who you are as a person. I place great importance on building a strong therapeutic relationship with you, so that we can work together to create the best approach that meets your unique needs.
(470) 431-1076 View (470) 431-1076
Photo of Natalie Wakeley, Licensed Professional Counselor in Atlanta, GA
Natalie Wakeley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30317
Hello and welcome! My name is Natalie Wakeley and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Georgia. If you're new to therapy or have tried therapy in the past and want to explore a more holistic approach, I can help. I specialize in Somatic techniques as well as IFS and DBT to help you process trauma, emotional pain patterns, relationship issues, life transitions, and disorders such as Bipolar, BPD, and OCD that cause anxiety, depression, and emotional pain.
Hello and welcome! My name is Natalie Wakeley and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Georgia. If you're new to therapy or have tried therapy in the past and want to explore a more holistic approach, I can help. I specialize in Somatic techniques as well as IFS and DBT to help you process trauma, emotional pain patterns, relationship issues, life transitions, and disorders such as Bipolar, BPD, and OCD that cause anxiety, depression, and emotional pain.
(678) 750-2358 View (678) 750-2358
Photo of Asia Davis, Pre-Licensed Professional in Atlanta, GA
Asia Davis
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30326  (Online Only)
I specialize in addressing a spectrum of mental health issues, including Major Depressive Disorder, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, and more.
Are you ready to step out of survival mode and transform pain from your past into purpose? Are you feeling trapped in the intricate threads of a narrative that has molded your identity? If you're asking yourself these questions then you are in the initial stages of a journey toward healing, and I'm here to meet you right where you are. My goal is to accompany you on this path, providing guidance as you strive to evolve into the most authentic and empowered version of yourself.
I specialize in addressing a spectrum of mental health issues, including Major Depressive Disorder, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, and more.
Are you ready to step out of survival mode and transform pain from your past into purpose? Are you feeling trapped in the intricate threads of a narrative that has molded your identity? If you're asking yourself these questions then you are in the initial stages of a journey toward healing, and I'm here to meet you right where you are. My goal is to accompany you on this path, providing guidance as you strive to evolve into the most authentic and empowered version of yourself.
(470) 619-5795 View (470) 619-5795
Photo of Talk it Out, Licensed Professional Counselor in Atlanta, GA
Talk it Out
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30339
We specialize in numerous mental health concerns, such as anxiety, depression, addiction, eating disorders, trauma, grief, LGBTQIAA issues, personality disorders, bipolar disorder, life transitions, among others.
Hello and welcome to Talk it Out! We are a family friendly group practice located near Truist Park (formally SunTrust Park) with easy access off of 285 and 75. We specialize in a wide array of mental health concerns. One of our knowledgeable and compassionate clinicians will work with you to meet your specific goals in therapy. Our clinicians utilize various treatment modalities and vary in terms of gender and age so you can feel confident that you will be matched with a clinician that you will feel comfortable and safe with.
We specialize in numerous mental health concerns, such as anxiety, depression, addiction, eating disorders, trauma, grief, LGBTQIAA issues, personality disorders, bipolar disorder, life transitions, among others.
Hello and welcome to Talk it Out! We are a family friendly group practice located near Truist Park (formally SunTrust Park) with easy access off of 285 and 75. We specialize in a wide array of mental health concerns. One of our knowledgeable and compassionate clinicians will work with you to meet your specific goals in therapy. Our clinicians utilize various treatment modalities and vary in terms of gender and age so you can feel confident that you will be matched with a clinician that you will feel comfortable and safe with.
(678) 343-2499 View (678) 343-2499
Photo of Dr. Scot Seitz, Psychologist in Atlanta, GA
Dr. Scot Seitz
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30327  (Online Only)
I work with individuals, couples, and families across multiple states (via telehealth) who are seeking support for various mental health challenges. Many of my clients have difficulties related to anxiety, depression, and past trauma that get in the way of enjoying life and thriving to their fullest potential. I also work with people who are diagnosed with OCD, schizophrenia/bipolar disorders, and related conditions. The foundation of my therapy is a collaborative relationship based on acceptance. I look beyond the mental health “condition” and seek to understand you as a person, influenced by your identities and past experiences.
I work with individuals, couples, and families across multiple states (via telehealth) who are seeking support for various mental health challenges. Many of my clients have difficulties related to anxiety, depression, and past trauma that get in the way of enjoying life and thriving to their fullest potential. I also work with people who are diagnosed with OCD, schizophrenia/bipolar disorders, and related conditions. The foundation of my therapy is a collaborative relationship based on acceptance. I look beyond the mental health “condition” and seek to understand you as a person, influenced by your identities and past experiences.
(770) 651-0833 View (770) 651-0833
Photo of Gail Foorman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Atlanta, GA
Gail Foorman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, Cantor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30326  (Online Only)
I have extensive background treating people with depression, anxiety, bipolar, ADHD and ASD disorders as well as issues related to aging.
Welcome! I specialize in helping Jewish individuals and couples of all levels of religious observance or communal affiliation to explore and resolve concerns over interpersonal, family and community relationships, life-cycle events, intermarriage, conversion, religious or spiritual questions, the Holocaust, and antisemitism/anti-Zionism. I also help young adults cope with the demands of work, school, socializing, dating, relationships, managing finances, setting goals and generally coping with this surprisingly challenging time of life. More generally, I see anyone needing help dealing with and overcoming depression and anxiety.
I have extensive background treating people with depression, anxiety, bipolar, ADHD and ASD disorders as well as issues related to aging.
Welcome! I specialize in helping Jewish individuals and couples of all levels of religious observance or communal affiliation to explore and resolve concerns over interpersonal, family and community relationships, life-cycle events, intermarriage, conversion, religious or spiritual questions, the Holocaust, and antisemitism/anti-Zionism. I also help young adults cope with the demands of work, school, socializing, dating, relationships, managing finances, setting goals and generally coping with this surprisingly challenging time of life. More generally, I see anyone needing help dealing with and overcoming depression and anxiety.
(470) 323-8569 View (470) 323-8569
Photo of Hannah Weeks, Counselor in Atlanta, GA
Hannah Weeks
Counselor, LAPC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30319
Hannah Weeks is a Licensed Associate Professional Counselor in Georgia who has been practicing since 2022. She graduated from Mercer University with an M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Hannah is a therapist who can help clients navigate and manage a variety of mental health concerns, such as depression, childhood behavior issues, OCD, anxiety, personality disorders, and bipolar disorder. She has worked extensively with clients who are experiencing life transitions, self-esteem issues, and identity issues. Hannah is experienced in providing engaging in-person and tele-health services.
Hannah Weeks is a Licensed Associate Professional Counselor in Georgia who has been practicing since 2022. She graduated from Mercer University with an M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Hannah is a therapist who can help clients navigate and manage a variety of mental health concerns, such as depression, childhood behavior issues, OCD, anxiety, personality disorders, and bipolar disorder. She has worked extensively with clients who are experiencing life transitions, self-esteem issues, and identity issues. Hannah is experienced in providing engaging in-person and tele-health services.
(470) 863-1640 View (470) 863-1640
Photo of Dr. Austin Jerani, Psychologist in Atlanta, GA
Dr. Austin Jerani
Psychologist, PsyD, LMHC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30306  (Online Only)
I have experience working with depression, bipolar disorder, adjustment to life circumstances, anxiety, trauma, substance use, anger management, stress, communication skills, relationships and marriages, conflict resolution and provide a supportive approach to nourish recovery. Change is a journey and I strive to offer insight and awareness in targeting triggers, managing symptoms, and overcoming challenges. My approach is a collaborative one that allows us to focus on your needs by listening, understanding feelings, working through and processing symptoms, and ultimately empowering you to achieve the desired lifestyle you seek.
I have experience working with depression, bipolar disorder, adjustment to life circumstances, anxiety, trauma, substance use, anger management, stress, communication skills, relationships and marriages, conflict resolution and provide a supportive approach to nourish recovery. Change is a journey and I strive to offer insight and awareness in targeting triggers, managing symptoms, and overcoming challenges. My approach is a collaborative one that allows us to focus on your needs by listening, understanding feelings, working through and processing symptoms, and ultimately empowering you to achieve the desired lifestyle you seek.
(470) 868-2373 View (470) 868-2373
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.