Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Georgia

Photo of Anntoinette Briley, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Anntoinette Briley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Marietta, GA 30066
Hello! My name is Anntoinette Briley and am an LPC with over 20 years of experience in the counseling profession. I have acquired a sizeable background in many areas of counseling from private practice to large organizations, and my specialty areas include Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Relationship Issues, and Life Transitions, among others. I identify with various counseling approaches depending on your specific need and my top modality is individual therapy using Gestalt as it is centered on increasing your awareness, freedom, self-direction and focus on present moment rather than your past experiences.
Hello! My name is Anntoinette Briley and am an LPC with over 20 years of experience in the counseling profession. I have acquired a sizeable background in many areas of counseling from private practice to large organizations, and my specialty areas include Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Relationship Issues, and Life Transitions, among others. I identify with various counseling approaches depending on your specific need and my top modality is individual therapy using Gestalt as it is centered on increasing your awareness, freedom, self-direction and focus on present moment rather than your past experiences.
(470) 349-7527 View (470) 349-7527
Photo of Dianna Maddox-Faulkner, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Dianna Maddox-Faulkner
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Hiram, GA 30141
I work with those in addiction or family members of those living in addiction, grief and loss, trauma, vicarious trauma, bipolar, other mood disorders, and stress disorders such as anxiety, PTSD & ASD.
I am ready to walk with you on your journey to good mental health with acceptance, love, and hope. I specialize in addiction counseling, mood disorders, trauma, anxiety and stress disorders, grief, and loss. I work with children, adolescents, young and older adults. I would love to help guide you to a better quality of life. I love to incorporate art into therapy when appropriate. But you don't have to be an artist to participate. Please don't wait for life to become unmanageable to seek help and guidance. Email or call me today to get started on your journey.
I work with those in addiction or family members of those living in addiction, grief and loss, trauma, vicarious trauma, bipolar, other mood disorders, and stress disorders such as anxiety, PTSD & ASD.
I am ready to walk with you on your journey to good mental health with acceptance, love, and hope. I specialize in addiction counseling, mood disorders, trauma, anxiety and stress disorders, grief, and loss. I work with children, adolescents, young and older adults. I would love to help guide you to a better quality of life. I love to incorporate art into therapy when appropriate. But you don't have to be an artist to participate. Please don't wait for life to become unmanageable to seek help and guidance. Email or call me today to get started on your journey.
(770) 746-8617 View (770) 746-8617
Photo of Lisette M Infante, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
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 Jason W Byram, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jason W Byram
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Athens, GA 30605  (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 Shannon Mathis Meyer, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shannon Mathis Meyer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rossville, GA 30741
I am a licensed clinical social worker and a trauma-informed therapist with twelve years of clinical experience. I use techniques such as EMDR, CBT, DBT, ERP, Motivational Interviewing, and Interpersonal psychotherapy to identify and address your concerns collaboratively. I work best with clients 13 years and above, and My areas of expertise include trauma, depressive disorders, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, OCD, interpersonal conflicts, life transitions, and LGBTQIA+ issues. I whole-heartedly believe that people can change and grow and heal from trauma and any other experience they have in their past.
I am a licensed clinical social worker and a trauma-informed therapist with twelve years of clinical experience. I use techniques such as EMDR, CBT, DBT, ERP, Motivational Interviewing, and Interpersonal psychotherapy to identify and address your concerns collaboratively. I work best with clients 13 years and above, and My areas of expertise include trauma, depressive disorders, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, OCD, interpersonal conflicts, life transitions, and LGBTQIA+ issues. I whole-heartedly believe that people can change and grow and heal from trauma and any other experience they have in their past.
(678) 726-5773 View (678) 726-5773
Photo of Mishele Walker, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mishele Walker
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Doraville, GA 30360
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 Valerie Dunham Maxey, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Valerie Dunham Maxey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, GA 30214
I specialize in helping people who experience symptoms related to disorders, like: Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective Disorder, Bipolar, PTSD, Depression and more, live more productive lives.
Do you struggle with serious mental illness & psychosis? Are you dealing with the effects of trauma? Are you having difficulty balancing roles & responsibilities? Are you experiencing instability, stress, anxiety & more? Don’t give up on yourself, you deserve much more and I would be honored to partner with you on your journey upward. With therapy, intensive case management & skill building, I will work with you to manage symptoms, sort through difficult feelings, organize your life & connect with community resources to increase your independence & self-reliance.
I specialize in helping people who experience symptoms related to disorders, like: Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective Disorder, Bipolar, PTSD, Depression and more, live more productive lives.
Do you struggle with serious mental illness & psychosis? Are you dealing with the effects of trauma? Are you having difficulty balancing roles & responsibilities? Are you experiencing instability, stress, anxiety & more? Don’t give up on yourself, you deserve much more and I would be honored to partner with you on your journey upward. With therapy, intensive case management & skill building, I will work with you to manage symptoms, sort through difficult feelings, organize your life & connect with community resources to increase your independence & self-reliance.
(678) 820-6475 View (678) 820-6475
Photo of Lisa Poore, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lisa Poore
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Suwanee, GA 30024
Do you get overwhelmed and then shut down just to manage the depression or fear? Do you obsess about situations that make you anxious, or instead avoid them altogether? You want to be fully present but you’re in your head most of the time, thinking about your worries, the pain from your past or the mood swings you just can’t seem to control. You pray to God begging for help but feel alone in your struggle for emotional wellness. But it is hard to experience peace when you have depression, bipolar, anxiety, OCD or trauma. Maybe you have more than one of these conditions. I’m good at handling several of these at one time.
Do you get overwhelmed and then shut down just to manage the depression or fear? Do you obsess about situations that make you anxious, or instead avoid them altogether? You want to be fully present but you’re in your head most of the time, thinking about your worries, the pain from your past or the mood swings you just can’t seem to control. You pray to God begging for help but feel alone in your struggle for emotional wellness. But it is hard to experience peace when you have depression, bipolar, anxiety, OCD or trauma. Maybe you have more than one of these conditions. I’m good at handling several of these at one time.
(470) 236-5296 View (470) 236-5296
Photo of Darlene Fletcher, Licensed Professional Counselor
Darlene Fletcher
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Douglasville, GA 30135  (Online Only)
My experience includes but is not limited to ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Grief, Relationships, Trauma and Vocational Stress.
My name is Darlene. A brief introduction to my qualifications and experience: Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) . Certified Rehabilitation Counselor ( CRC) . M.S. in Rehabilitation Counseling. M.A. in Human Services Counseling Trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). ADHD Certified Clinical Services Provider (ADHD-CCSP). Trauma Informed. I have enjoyed a professional career working with diverse populations in a number of different settings.
My experience includes but is not limited to ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Grief, Relationships, Trauma and Vocational Stress.
My name is Darlene. A brief introduction to my qualifications and experience: Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) . Certified Rehabilitation Counselor ( CRC) . M.S. in Rehabilitation Counseling. M.A. in Human Services Counseling Trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). ADHD Certified Clinical Services Provider (ADHD-CCSP). Trauma Informed. I have enjoyed a professional career working with diverse populations in a number of different settings.
(678) 563-9520 View (678) 563-9520
Photo of LaWunmie Semore - Dr.SemoreDNP Psychiatric NP, DNP, AGNP-CB, PMHNP-B
Dr.SemoreDNP Psychiatric NP
Registered Professional Nurse, DNP, AGNP-CB, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Lawrenceville, GA 30046
Dr. Ogun-Semore- DNP, AGPCNP, PMHNP-BC- Treat ACROSS LIFESPAN. In my line of profession and with expertise, I explain pathophysiology of the condition and how medications work, use a rating scale and evidenced-based treatments to support my diagnosis. The services I provide include comprehensive psychiatric diagnostic evaluations, medication management, and supportive therapy. I am experienced in helping people with anxiety, chronic depression resisitant to other treatment options and modalities, panic, bipolar disorders, psychotic symptoms, PTSD, memory impairment, ADHD.....etc
Dr. Ogun-Semore- DNP, AGPCNP, PMHNP-BC- Treat ACROSS LIFESPAN. In my line of profession and with expertise, I explain pathophysiology of the condition and how medications work, use a rating scale and evidenced-based treatments to support my diagnosis. The services I provide include comprehensive psychiatric diagnostic evaluations, medication management, and supportive therapy. I am experienced in helping people with anxiety, chronic depression resisitant to other treatment options and modalities, panic, bipolar disorders, psychotic symptoms, PTSD, memory impairment, ADHD.....etc
(206) 385-6233 View (206) 385-6233
Photo of Jamie Goldberg - Alan Behrman & Associates, PC, LAPC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Alan Behrman & Associates, PC
Pre-Licensed Professional, LAPC
Verified Verified
Marietta, GA 30062
Jamie specializes in anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, personality disorders.
While active listening is an important skill for a therapist, listening can only go so far. Our practice belief is that we actually help you help yourself make the necessary changes in your life by giving you techniques, tools, skills, and guidance to achieve your goals. You'll almost always walk out of a session with a new technique or two that you can go home and start using immediately. Our practice has highly trained therapists, are personable, and we're ready to give you the skills and techniques you need to create change.
Jamie specializes in anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, personality disorders.
While active listening is an important skill for a therapist, listening can only go so far. Our practice belief is that we actually help you help yourself make the necessary changes in your life by giving you techniques, tools, skills, and guidance to achieve your goals. You'll almost always walk out of a session with a new technique or two that you can go home and start using immediately. Our practice has highly trained therapists, are personable, and we're ready to give you the skills and techniques you need to create change.
(678) 403-6674 View (678) 403-6674
Photo of Olivia Ellis, MS, LAPC, CRC, NCC
Olivia Ellis
Associate Professional Counselor, MS, LAPC, CRC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30060  (Online Only)
I specialize working with adolescents & young adults who experience BPD, Bipolar, anxiety, depression, OCD, life transitions, Autism, 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 goals.
I specialize working with adolescents & young adults who experience BPD, Bipolar, anxiety, depression, OCD, life transitions, Autism, 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 goals.
(470) 431-1076 View (470) 431-1076
Photo of Dana M Lindsay, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dana M Lindsay
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30305
Waitlist for new clients
My focus on clients with mood and/or bipolar disorders incorporates Cognitive Behavioral and Dialectical Behavior therapies along with education on managing the diagnosis.
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.
My focus on clients with mood and/or bipolar disorders incorporates Cognitive Behavioral and Dialectical Behavior therapies along with education on managing the diagnosis.
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 Shannon Mathis Meyer, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shannon Mathis Meyer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Calhoun, GA 30701
I am a licensed clinical social worker and a trauma-informed therapist with twelve years of clinical experience. I use techniques such as EMDR, CBT, DBT, ERP, Motivational Interviewing, and Interpersonal psychotherapy to identify and address your concerns collaboratively. I work best with clients 13 years and above, and My areas of expertise include trauma, depressive disorders, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, OCD, interpersonal conflicts, life transitions, and LGBTQIA+ issues. I whole-heartedly believe that people can change and grow and heal from trauma and any other experience they have in their past.
I am a licensed clinical social worker and a trauma-informed therapist with twelve years of clinical experience. I use techniques such as EMDR, CBT, DBT, ERP, Motivational Interviewing, and Interpersonal psychotherapy to identify and address your concerns collaboratively. I work best with clients 13 years and above, and My areas of expertise include trauma, depressive disorders, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, OCD, interpersonal conflicts, life transitions, and LGBTQIA+ issues. I whole-heartedly believe that people can change and grow and heal from trauma and any other experience they have in their past.
(706) 981-9586 View (706) 981-9586
Photo of Dr. Dave Janzen - The Motiventionist, PC, DMin, CIP, CISM, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
The Motiventionist, PC
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, DMin, CIP, CISM
Verified Verified
Suwanee, GA 30024
An Intervention may be needed when a loved one refuses to seek professional help (denial). Maybe the problem is Bipolar Disorder, Severe Depression, Schizophrenia, or some other psychotic disorder. Maybe there’s an Eating Disorder, Gambling, Gaming, or Pornography addiction, or more commonly, an Alcohol or other Drug Problem. “Dr. Dave” Janzen is an Interventionist and Counselor based in the Atlanta area (Suwanee) specializing in Interventions for chemical and behavioral addictions, families dealing with addicted or mentally ill (or both at once) loved ones, and organizations that are distracted by conflict and turmoil.
An Intervention may be needed when a loved one refuses to seek professional help (denial). Maybe the problem is Bipolar Disorder, Severe Depression, Schizophrenia, or some other psychotic disorder. Maybe there’s an Eating Disorder, Gambling, Gaming, or Pornography addiction, or more commonly, an Alcohol or other Drug Problem. “Dr. Dave” Janzen is an Interventionist and Counselor based in the Atlanta area (Suwanee) specializing in Interventions for chemical and behavioral addictions, families dealing with addicted or mentally ill (or both at once) loved ones, and organizations that are distracted by conflict and turmoil.
(678) 883-1521 View (678) 883-1521
Photo of James M Siwy, PhD, Psychologist
James M Siwy
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Roswell, GA 30076
I have a heart for individuals who are in the turmoil of mental illness, such as depression or bipolar disorder.
Distressed? Demoralized? Or do you just have questions or doubts about where your life is going? What seems like a crisis may be the gateway to deeper self-understanding and opportunity, not only for immediate relief, but also for discovering the life you were meant to live.
I have a heart for individuals who are in the turmoil of mental illness, such as depression or bipolar disorder.
Distressed? Demoralized? Or do you just have questions or doubts about where your life is going? What seems like a crisis may be the gateway to deeper self-understanding and opportunity, not only for immediate relief, but also for discovering the life you were meant to live.
(678) 733-9568 x4 View (678) 733-9568 x4
Photo of Jessica Lynn Tomlinson, MAMFT, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Jessica Lynn Tomlinson
Counselor, MAMFT, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodstock, GA 30189
Jessica has a passion for working with children (ages 11+), adolescents and adults navigating challenges such addiction, anxiety, stress and relationship or family conflict. Specifically, she is specializing and continuing her training in bipolar/mood disorders, addictions, couples’ therapy and human sexuality. Jessica is also pursuing training in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT). Jess has obtained licensure as a Professional Counselor and National Certified Counselor.
Jessica has a passion for working with children (ages 11+), adolescents and adults navigating challenges such addiction, anxiety, stress and relationship or family conflict. Specifically, she is specializing and continuing her training in bipolar/mood disorders, addictions, couples’ therapy and human sexuality. Jessica is also pursuing training in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT). Jess has obtained licensure as a Professional Counselor and National Certified Counselor.
(770) 574-6219 View (770) 574-6219
Photo of Louis Fuertes Boynton, PhD, LPC, NCC, CPCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Louis Fuertes Boynton
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC, CPCS
Verified Verified
Newnan, GA 30263
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 Heather Willard, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Heather Willard
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Lilburn, GA 30047
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.
(770) 766-8603 View (770) 766-8603
Photo of Trakeeta Patterson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
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
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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.