Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Boston, MA

Photo of Jonathan Scott Blake, Counselor in Boston, MA
Jonathan Scott Blake
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02115  (Online Only)
Over the last several years I have provided services for children with behavior issues, teens and young adults with mood disorders, bipolar, depression and anxiety, and adults with depression, substance abuse and phase of life difficulties.
Sometimes it’s difficult to ask for help. But if you’re here, you are already that much closer to bettering yourself. Times have been very difficult, so know that you are not alone. Together we will identify your needs and struggles, and also reinforce your strengths that you may not even know you have. We will get you motivated, make you feel more confident and create the best coping skills for you to deal with daily struggles and to get you on with your life!
Over the last several years I have provided services for children with behavior issues, teens and young adults with mood disorders, bipolar, depression and anxiety, and adults with depression, substance abuse and phase of life difficulties.
Sometimes it’s difficult to ask for help. But if you’re here, you are already that much closer to bettering yourself. Times have been very difficult, so know that you are not alone. Together we will identify your needs and struggles, and also reinforce your strengths that you may not even know you have. We will get you motivated, make you feel more confident and create the best coping skills for you to deal with daily struggles and to get you on with your life!
(339) 204-9680 View (339) 204-9680
Photo of Kimberly Wabik, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boston, MA
Kimberly Wabik
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02118
Kimberly specializes in treating trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, bipolar disorder, and many other issues.
Kimberly Wabik is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) and Certified Trauma Specialist who has 10 years of experience partnering with youth, young adults, retired persons, and all ages in between.
Kimberly specializes in treating trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, bipolar disorder, and many other issues.
Kimberly Wabik is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) and Certified Trauma Specialist who has 10 years of experience partnering with youth, young adults, retired persons, and all ages in between.
(857) 420-7024 View (857) 420-7024
Photo of Sahar Shahnazi, Pre-Licensed Professional in Boston, MA
Sahar Shahnazi
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02115
Sahar is a dedicated mental health counselor with 4 years of experience in the dynamic field of mental health. Her passion for making a positive impact has led her to specialize in working with diverse populations, including children facing mental health challenges and individuals with dual diagnoses—specifically those grappling with substance use disorders alongside various other mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, trauma, and more.
Sahar is a dedicated mental health counselor with 4 years of experience in the dynamic field of mental health. Her passion for making a positive impact has led her to specialize in working with diverse populations, including children facing mental health challenges and individuals with dual diagnoses—specifically those grappling with substance use disorders alongside various other mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, trauma, and more.
(857) 520-3537 View (857) 520-3537
Photo of Antonio S. Gomes in Boston, MA
Antonio S. Gomes
MA, MAEd
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02124  (Online Only)
While we are fully aware of what is happening at the conscious level, we have no idea what information is stored in the unconscious. For the most part, the source of most of our problems is stored in the unconscious. I help patients verbalize and get in touch with their unconscious, leading to a successful treatment. I Work with adults diagnosed with a psychotic mental disorder; highly functional patients, however, under psychotic medications. I also have experience working with individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia, bipolar, depression, and narcissistic personality disorder.
While we are fully aware of what is happening at the conscious level, we have no idea what information is stored in the unconscious. For the most part, the source of most of our problems is stored in the unconscious. I help patients verbalize and get in touch with their unconscious, leading to a successful treatment. I Work with adults diagnosed with a psychotic mental disorder; highly functional patients, however, under psychotic medications. I also have experience working with individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia, bipolar, depression, and narcissistic personality disorder.
(857) 273-1671 View (857) 273-1671
Photo of Danielle Simon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boston, MA
Danielle Simon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02132  (Online Only)
Danielle Simon is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Massachusetts with 15 years of professional work treating various behavioral health disorders. Together, you will identify your behavioral health needs and learn strategies that work best to improve your mental health. She has a wide range of experience with disorders, including bipolar disorder, anxiety, depression, PTSD, mood disorders, and substance use disorders. Danielle earned a Master of Social Work in Mental Health from Boston College. She believes in treating everyone with respect and empathy.
Danielle Simon is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Massachusetts with 15 years of professional work treating various behavioral health disorders. Together, you will identify your behavioral health needs and learn strategies that work best to improve your mental health. She has a wide range of experience with disorders, including bipolar disorder, anxiety, depression, PTSD, mood disorders, and substance use disorders. Danielle earned a Master of Social Work in Mental Health from Boston College. She believes in treating everyone with respect and empathy.
(617) 431-2042 View (617) 431-2042
Photo of David A Kapolis, Counselor in Boston, MA
David A Kapolis
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02101  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
It's important to say, as a therapist living with Bipolar Disorder and having lived experience with the past impacts of a mental health condition, I understand both from a personal and a clinical perspective the hold that mental health can have one's quality of life.
I enjoy utilizing a blend of therapy approaches tailored to the needs of each of my individual clients. I am a firm believer of meeting a person where they're at while helping them understand themselves and the world around them. Whether it's processing emotions, providing education and support, helping those understand the impact of trauma, learning new and practical skills or whether it's providing practical and pragmatic advice - all of these are important in treating my clients as a whole. I truly believe that I can be of help to anyone who is willing to move towards self-understanding and overall wellness.
It's important to say, as a therapist living with Bipolar Disorder and having lived experience with the past impacts of a mental health condition, I understand both from a personal and a clinical perspective the hold that mental health can have one's quality of life.
I enjoy utilizing a blend of therapy approaches tailored to the needs of each of my individual clients. I am a firm believer of meeting a person where they're at while helping them understand themselves and the world around them. Whether it's processing emotions, providing education and support, helping those understand the impact of trauma, learning new and practical skills or whether it's providing practical and pragmatic advice - all of these are important in treating my clients as a whole. I truly believe that I can be of help to anyone who is willing to move towards self-understanding and overall wellness.
(857) 392-3422 View (857) 392-3422
Photo of Shelana A Simon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boston, MA
Shelana A Simon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW, PhD(c)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02115
She treats a wide spectrum of conditions including Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, PTSD, Mood disorders and substance use disorders.
Welcoming NEW patients! I understand that that taking steps towards receiving mental health treatment requires tremendous strength. I aim to foster collaborative relationships with my clients as they move towards their unique goals. I am highly skilled and dedicated Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker, and I currently practice in the Boston area. I obtained my Master of Social Work from Wheelock College, where I also obtained a certificate in Military counselling. I bring a comprehensive educational background to my role as my clinical experience is extensive. I am looking forward to collaborating with you on your care.
She treats a wide spectrum of conditions including Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, PTSD, Mood disorders and substance use disorders.
Welcoming NEW patients! I understand that that taking steps towards receiving mental health treatment requires tremendous strength. I aim to foster collaborative relationships with my clients as they move towards their unique goals. I am highly skilled and dedicated Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker, and I currently practice in the Boston area. I obtained my Master of Social Work from Wheelock College, where I also obtained a certificate in Military counselling. I bring a comprehensive educational background to my role as my clinical experience is extensive. I am looking forward to collaborating with you on your care.
(351) 333-1695 View (351) 333-1695
Photo of Dr. Jonathan Wilson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Boston, MA
Dr. Jonathan Wilson
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02110  (Online Only)
The majority of my clients are looking for a therapist to help them work through a difficult stage of life, and I consider it an honor to be given that opportunity. I will provide a thorough assessment for you in our first session and set up a treatment plan together. I specialize in treating relationships, depression, anxiety, sexual disorders, trauma, and PTSD. I also have a great deal of experience working with those with Bipolar Disorder, personality disorders, sleep disorders, self-harm, and sex and pornography addiction. As an ally of the LGBT+ community, I work with individuals in any type of relationship.
The majority of my clients are looking for a therapist to help them work through a difficult stage of life, and I consider it an honor to be given that opportunity. I will provide a thorough assessment for you in our first session and set up a treatment plan together. I specialize in treating relationships, depression, anxiety, sexual disorders, trauma, and PTSD. I also have a great deal of experience working with those with Bipolar Disorder, personality disorders, sleep disorders, self-harm, and sex and pornography addiction. As an ally of the LGBT+ community, I work with individuals in any type of relationship.
(617) 766-1038 View (617) 766-1038
Photo of Ashley Anechiarico, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boston, MA
Ashley Anechiarico
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02110
Ashley addresses anxiety, LGBTQIA+ issues, life transitions, women’s issues, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, burnout, depression, identity exploration, loneliness, PTSD, relationship challenges, stress, substance abuse, and trauma.
Ashley Anechiarico, a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW), is renowned for her compassionate and client-centered approach in therapy. Her practice caters to a wide array of clients, including young adults, the LGBTQ+ community, and individuals coping with depression, anxiety, and emotional abuse. Ashley’s therapeutic style is grounded in collaboration and strength-based methods, tailored to address the unique needs of each client.
Ashley addresses anxiety, LGBTQIA+ issues, life transitions, women’s issues, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, burnout, depression, identity exploration, loneliness, PTSD, relationship challenges, stress, substance abuse, and trauma.
Ashley Anechiarico, a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW), is renowned for her compassionate and client-centered approach in therapy. Her practice caters to a wide array of clients, including young adults, the LGBTQ+ community, and individuals coping with depression, anxiety, and emotional abuse. Ashley’s therapeutic style is grounded in collaboration and strength-based methods, tailored to address the unique needs of each client.
(617) 675-9343 View (617) 675-9343
Photo of Crystal Carrington Jones, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boston, MA
Crystal Carrington Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02116  (Online Only)
I also work with people struggling with Bipolar disorder and other major mental illness.
I am looking to work with people who are not satisfied with how things are in their life, and ready to take control in order for their lives to improve. In addition to actively listening and problem solving, I coach individuals to activate specific techniques designed to be applied throughout their daily lives. It is in the hands of the individual to apply these skills in order to reach their goals. If an individual is not quite there, we'll work together to figure out what's blocking their potential.
I also work with people struggling with Bipolar disorder and other major mental illness.
I am looking to work with people who are not satisfied with how things are in their life, and ready to take control in order for their lives to improve. In addition to actively listening and problem solving, I coach individuals to activate specific techniques designed to be applied throughout their daily lives. It is in the hands of the individual to apply these skills in order to reach their goals. If an individual is not quite there, we'll work together to figure out what's blocking their potential.
(857) 995-5016 View (857) 995-5016
Photo of Alicia Cronister-Morais, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boston, MA
Alicia Cronister-Morais
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02115
I treat a wide spectrum of conditions including Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, PTSD, Mood disorders and substance use disorders.
Welcoming NEW patients! I understand that that taking steps towards receiving mental health treatment requires tremendous strength. I aim to foster collaborative relationships with my clients as they move towards their unique goals. I am highly skilled and dedicated Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker, and I currently practice in the Boston area. I obtained my master's degree in social work from Bridgewater State University, and I have extensive experience in various clinical settings. Among my populations of interest, are veterans with mood and co-occurring disorders, including PTSD and substance use disorders.
I treat a wide spectrum of conditions including Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, PTSD, Mood disorders and substance use disorders.
Welcoming NEW patients! I understand that that taking steps towards receiving mental health treatment requires tremendous strength. I aim to foster collaborative relationships with my clients as they move towards their unique goals. I am highly skilled and dedicated Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker, and I currently practice in the Boston area. I obtained my master's degree in social work from Bridgewater State University, and I have extensive experience in various clinical settings. Among my populations of interest, are veterans with mood and co-occurring disorders, including PTSD and substance use disorders.
(617) 405-8995 View (617) 405-8995
Photo of Benjamin L. Thompson, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Boston, MA
Benjamin L. Thompson
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, PhD, LADC-1
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02108  (Online Only)
I have experience working with and treating all types of addiction, including both substance and behavioral addictions. I also have considerable experience with and understanding of mental illnesses, including especially depressive, anxiety, and bipolar disorders. I tend to have the most success treating those for whom other approaches have not been effective. My approach is best fitted for those who feel utterly broken and desperate for change.
I have experience working with and treating all types of addiction, including both substance and behavioral addictions. I also have considerable experience with and understanding of mental illnesses, including especially depressive, anxiety, and bipolar disorders. I tend to have the most success treating those for whom other approaches have not been effective. My approach is best fitted for those who feel utterly broken and desperate for change.
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Photo of Orlando Counseling & Supervision, Counselor in Boston, MA
Orlando Counseling & Supervision
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02215
I work with a number of different presenting issues including men's issues, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, life changes, couples and those who are struggling with substance use.
I work with a number of different presenting issues including men's issues, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, life changes, couples and those who are struggling with substance use.
(857) 422-6274 View (857) 422-6274
Photo of Austin Seeley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boston, MA
Austin Seeley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02116
My specialties include working with trauma, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, gender dysphoria, and spiritual issues.
Having a fresh perspective can make a big difference when we are going through a difficult time. My clients often need support in multiple life areas and have complex needs. I offer a compassionate, honest and gentle approach to people looking for individual therapy and support. My experience is primarily related to working with members of the LGBTQIA+ community who struggle with depression, anxiety, trauma and other emotional issues. I use a contemplative style to help you utilize your own strengths and resilience.
My specialties include working with trauma, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, gender dysphoria, and spiritual issues.
Having a fresh perspective can make a big difference when we are going through a difficult time. My clients often need support in multiple life areas and have complex needs. I offer a compassionate, honest and gentle approach to people looking for individual therapy and support. My experience is primarily related to working with members of the LGBTQIA+ community who struggle with depression, anxiety, trauma and other emotional issues. I use a contemplative style to help you utilize your own strengths and resilience.
(857) 349-9380 View (857) 349-9380
Photo of Maureen Walsh, Counselor in Boston, MA
Maureen Walsh
Counselor, MA, PsyaCns, LMHC
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02118
My experience encompasses treating people with anxiety, depression, addictions (including dual diagnosis), bipolar disorder, PTSD, low self-esteem, co-dependency, somatic issues, gender identity and LGBT issues.
Worry, Anxiety, Trauma, Depression, Grief, Overwhelming Feelings, Relationship Disasters... these are but a few of the issues that may lead someone to consider a professional who can support and assist you with your core concerns. I specialize in treating the human condition from a holistic perspective, always honoring the uniqueness of each individual and respecting their way of "being" in the world. Our aim together will be to explore and find revelations, resolutions,and solutions. Using a psychoanalytic approach, we will bring to light the driving forces behind the repetitive behaviors that tend to keep us attached to repeated outcomes.
My experience encompasses treating people with anxiety, depression, addictions (including dual diagnosis), bipolar disorder, PTSD, low self-esteem, co-dependency, somatic issues, gender identity and LGBT issues.
Worry, Anxiety, Trauma, Depression, Grief, Overwhelming Feelings, Relationship Disasters... these are but a few of the issues that may lead someone to consider a professional who can support and assist you with your core concerns. I specialize in treating the human condition from a holistic perspective, always honoring the uniqueness of each individual and respecting their way of "being" in the world. Our aim together will be to explore and find revelations, resolutions,and solutions. Using a psychoanalytic approach, we will bring to light the driving forces behind the repetitive behaviors that tend to keep us attached to repeated outcomes.
(617) 396-7614 View (617) 396-7614
Photo of Casey Hoffman, Counselor in Boston, MA
Casey Hoffman
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02110  (Online Only)
Hi I’m Casey – I’m so glad you’re here – looking for and reaching out for help is such a big step. I work at Radiant Behavioral Health Care, LLC with adults facing various challenges and am dedicated to helping people find healing and happiness in their lives. I have experience treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and substance use concerns. Whether you are dealing with work stress, relationship challenges, grief, trauma, anxious or depressive thoughts, I am committed to walking alongside you on your path to healing.
Hi I’m Casey – I’m so glad you’re here – looking for and reaching out for help is such a big step. I work at Radiant Behavioral Health Care, LLC with adults facing various challenges and am dedicated to helping people find healing and happiness in their lives. I have experience treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and substance use concerns. Whether you are dealing with work stress, relationship challenges, grief, trauma, anxious or depressive thoughts, I am committed to walking alongside you on your path to healing.
(617) 915-4820 View (617) 915-4820
Photo of Huan-Tang Lu, Counselor in Boston, MA
Huan-Tang Lu
Counselor, PhD, LMHC/PC, ACS, RPT, RN
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02135  (Online Only)
Common challenges that I work with include bipolar disorder, anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, family conflicts, borderline personality disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
This is a space for everyone who would like to explore their full potential. You can find non-judgmental, unconditional acceptance here. This will be a journey for your personal growth and to reach your life goals, whether it's reaching higher or getting back in the direction you wish. We will work together frequently at the beginning and aim to reduce the frequency when you feel ready.
Common challenges that I work with include bipolar disorder, anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, family conflicts, borderline personality disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
This is a space for everyone who would like to explore their full potential. You can find non-judgmental, unconditional acceptance here. This will be a journey for your personal growth and to reach your life goals, whether it's reaching higher or getting back in the direction you wish. We will work together frequently at the beginning and aim to reduce the frequency when you feel ready.
(617) 741-9360 View (617) 741-9360
Photo of Rainer Goldberg, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boston, MA
Rainer Goldberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02131  (Online Only)
I pull from multiple modalities but my primary focus is based in Cognitive Enhancement Therapy (CET) , Functional Remediation for bipolar disorder, and Transpersonal Psychotherapy.
Have you reached a point where your own will has sabotaged your life? Either recognizing how small you are in the grand scheme of things, lack of ability to transcend stagnancy or break free from bad habits or symptoms that rob you of joy? I have found the difference between being alive and living is rooted in transcending your identity (or sense of self ) beyond one dimensional perspectives, and I utilize the medium of color (and archetypes) to create a bridge between the conscious and unconscious world that exists within, among, and around you.
I pull from multiple modalities but my primary focus is based in Cognitive Enhancement Therapy (CET) , Functional Remediation for bipolar disorder, and Transpersonal Psychotherapy.
Have you reached a point where your own will has sabotaged your life? Either recognizing how small you are in the grand scheme of things, lack of ability to transcend stagnancy or break free from bad habits or symptoms that rob you of joy? I have found the difference between being alive and living is rooted in transcending your identity (or sense of self ) beyond one dimensional perspectives, and I utilize the medium of color (and archetypes) to create a bridge between the conscious and unconscious world that exists within, among, and around you.
(206) 337-4521 View (206) 337-4521
Photo of Piero Goytizolo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boston, MA
Piero Goytizolo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02118  (Online Only)
My specialties are within the LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities, with topics like grief and loss, immigration, college/career struggles, substance use, ADHD, bipolar disorder, anxiety, depression, and more.
Hello/hola! My name is Piero and I am a gay, Peruvian, Spanish-speaking man who loves pizza. I deeply enjoy meeting with individuals, couples, and families, and it would be an honor to see how I can help you. I believe the most important thing in the therapeutic relationship is our connection, and that you enjoy meeting with me. You want a therapist who you look forward to seeing and who you feel comfortable and safe with, who is also willing to challenge you and help you grow. I like to be warm and friendly as well as direct and blunt, use humor when appropriate, and am comfortable talking about anything.
My specialties are within the LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities, with topics like grief and loss, immigration, college/career struggles, substance use, ADHD, bipolar disorder, anxiety, depression, and more.
Hello/hola! My name is Piero and I am a gay, Peruvian, Spanish-speaking man who loves pizza. I deeply enjoy meeting with individuals, couples, and families, and it would be an honor to see how I can help you. I believe the most important thing in the therapeutic relationship is our connection, and that you enjoy meeting with me. You want a therapist who you look forward to seeing and who you feel comfortable and safe with, who is also willing to challenge you and help you grow. I like to be warm and friendly as well as direct and blunt, use humor when appropriate, and am comfortable talking about anything.
(617) 996-8904 View (617) 996-8904
Photo of Dr. Sheri Shahriar in Boston, MA
Dr. Sheri Shahriar
MA, PsyaD
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02114  (Online Only)
I specialize in anxiety, depression, bipolar, and adjustment disorders.
Oftentimes we face challenges that block us from leading a satisfying life or even reach our greatest potential. These roadblocks can be difficult to understand and even harder to work through them ourselves. My passion is to provide individuals with a compassionate emotional space where feelings, thoughts and ideas can be safely expressed, giving way to a deeper understanding and clarity of the self.
I specialize in anxiety, depression, bipolar, and adjustment disorders.
Oftentimes we face challenges that block us from leading a satisfying life or even reach our greatest potential. These roadblocks can be difficult to understand and even harder to work through them ourselves. My passion is to provide individuals with a compassionate emotional space where feelings, thoughts and ideas can be safely expressed, giving way to a deeper understanding and clarity of the self.
(781) 517-9691 View (781) 517-9691
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.