Photo of Best Life Therapy, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cumberland, MD
Best Life Therapy, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Cumberland, MD 21502
Experienced and compassionate therapist ready to listen, guide and offer you a different perspective to help you live your best life. An eclectic approach is utilized to help you process and overcome past trauma, learn new ways of coping with life stressors and improve how you feel about yourself. Specializing in helping you cope with loss, life transitions, symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Experienced and compassionate therapist ready to listen, guide and offer you a different perspective to help you live your best life. An eclectic approach is utilized to help you process and overcome past trauma, learn new ways of coping with life stressors and improve how you feel about yourself. Specializing in helping you cope with loss, life transitions, symptoms of depression and anxiety.
(240) 202-3169 View (240) 202-3169
Photo of Lisa M Castleman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cumberland, MD
Lisa M Castleman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Cumberland, MD 21502
Having started my profession a little later in life, I have an understanding of many issues that people of all ages face today. I have worked in many areas and hope to help those with mental health, behavioral health and personal issues that are troubling them. My education is in social work, which provides a broader generalist perspective to my work with children and adults.
Having started my profession a little later in life, I have an understanding of many issues that people of all ages face today. I have worked in many areas and hope to help those with mental health, behavioral health and personal issues that are troubling them. My education is in social work, which provides a broader generalist perspective to my work with children and adults.
(240) 839-4748 View (240) 839-4748
Photo of Darren Christopher Wiley, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Cumberland, MD
Darren Christopher Wiley
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Cumberland, MD 21502  (Online Only)
I strive to meet each person I help where they are. Together we work with to develop goals and proactively explore options needed to achieve them. I am proud to utilize eclectic techniques that take different skills from various therapeutic approaches to individualize treatment needs for each individual seeking therapy services. I thoroughly enjoy working with a variety of people, helping each person work through their issues. I have extensive experience working with adults, youth and couples as they work through mood disorders, depression, anxiety, trauma, dual diagnoses and relationship related issues.
I strive to meet each person I help where they are. Together we work with to develop goals and proactively explore options needed to achieve them. I am proud to utilize eclectic techniques that take different skills from various therapeutic approaches to individualize treatment needs for each individual seeking therapy services. I thoroughly enjoy working with a variety of people, helping each person work through their issues. I have extensive experience working with adults, youth and couples as they work through mood disorders, depression, anxiety, trauma, dual diagnoses and relationship related issues.
(240) 366-2763 View (240) 366-2763
Photo of Wellness From Within Counseling LLC, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Cumberland, MD
Wellness From Within Counseling LLC
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, CAC-AD
Verified Verified
Cumberland, MD 21505  (Online Only)
Are you stuck in a cycle of wake up, go to work, come home, cook dinner, take care of your family, attempt to sleep and can’t because your brain just won’t turn off? Then wake up even more exhausted than the day before…just to do it all over again. Imagine loving your life because you have found your passion, your drive, your worth. You are living your life fearlessly! You have a relationship that fulfills you, a rocking support system, and most importantly—you love you! Because you’re an awesome fearless woman, who just got stuck along the way. Together we can help you find your way back.
Are you stuck in a cycle of wake up, go to work, come home, cook dinner, take care of your family, attempt to sleep and can’t because your brain just won’t turn off? Then wake up even more exhausted than the day before…just to do it all over again. Imagine loving your life because you have found your passion, your drive, your worth. You are living your life fearlessly! You have a relationship that fulfills you, a rocking support system, and most importantly—you love you! Because you’re an awesome fearless woman, who just got stuck along the way. Together we can help you find your way back.
(301) 691-5672 View (301) 691-5672
Photo of Carrie Jessen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cumberland, MD
Carrie Jessen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cumberland, MD 21502
Carrie works diligently with her clients to assist them through their life journey and challenges for a variety of issues to include depression, anxiety, panic disorder, OCD, personality disorder, chronic illness/health issues, family/relationship issues, crisis, loss, and life transitions. Carrie’s goal is to help you understand yourself and your relationships in a way that creates the positive change that matters to you.
Carrie works diligently with her clients to assist them through their life journey and challenges for a variety of issues to include depression, anxiety, panic disorder, OCD, personality disorder, chronic illness/health issues, family/relationship issues, crisis, loss, and life transitions. Carrie’s goal is to help you understand yourself and your relationships in a way that creates the positive change that matters to you.
(410) 498-7970 View (410) 498-7970
Photo of Mary Frances LaHood, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cumberland, MD
Mary Frances LaHood
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cumberland, MD 21501  (Online Only)
I have a wealth of experience and advanced training in women’s mental health, including perinatal and maternal mental health. I’ve had the privilege of working with hundreds of women and families, as they navigate the joys and sorrows of complex pregnancy and birth experiences.
I have a wealth of experience and advanced training in women’s mental health, including perinatal and maternal mental health. I’ve had the privilege of working with hundreds of women and families, as they navigate the joys and sorrows of complex pregnancy and birth experiences.
(240) 641-7605 View (240) 641-7605

Online Therapists

Photo of Christopher Trotman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cumberland, MD
Christopher Trotman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Rockville, MD 20850  (Online Only)
My experience, including living with sickle cell anemia, allows me to specialize in chronic illness, pain, emotional regulation, depression, anxiety, trauma, bipolar disorder and other related issues.
Hey there! If you're here, you may be starting (or continuing) a journey of self-discovery. As a dedicated licensed master social worker, I'm honored to assist you. I know reaching out for help can be difficult sometimes. If you’re willing to take that intimidating first step, I promise you- I will do my best in helping make it as easy and enjoyable for you as I possibly can. I aim to create a healing space, where we'll laugh together, you may cry, and you'll feel ready to overcome challenges. Shoot me an email and we'll schedule a free 15 min consultation! Now accepting clients in both MD and AZ
My experience, including living with sickle cell anemia, allows me to specialize in chronic illness, pain, emotional regulation, depression, anxiety, trauma, bipolar disorder and other related issues.
Hey there! If you're here, you may be starting (or continuing) a journey of self-discovery. As a dedicated licensed master social worker, I'm honored to assist you. I know reaching out for help can be difficult sometimes. If you’re willing to take that intimidating first step, I promise you- I will do my best in helping make it as easy and enjoyable for you as I possibly can. I aim to create a healing space, where we'll laugh together, you may cry, and you'll feel ready to overcome challenges. Shoot me an email and we'll schedule a free 15 min consultation! Now accepting clients in both MD and AZ
(301) 851-0601 View (301) 851-0601
Photo of Reji Abhilash, Psychologist in Cumberland, MD
Reji Abhilash
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockville, MD 20852
My ideal client is one who has psychological mindedness to seek help & attains mental stability & self-acceptance to overcome their distress. I have the privilege of working with a wide variety of clients (children, adolescents, and adults) in providing appropriate interventions, targeting recovery & progress. I provide specialized evidence-based intervention for clients diagnosed with anxiety (OCD, panic attacks & social anxiety), depression, grief, trauma and PTSD, addiction, schizophrenia, bipolar & personality disorders (BPD), Alzheimer's & dementia including caretaking burden of the family to improve their quality of life.
My ideal client is one who has psychological mindedness to seek help & attains mental stability & self-acceptance to overcome their distress. I have the privilege of working with a wide variety of clients (children, adolescents, and adults) in providing appropriate interventions, targeting recovery & progress. I provide specialized evidence-based intervention for clients diagnosed with anxiety (OCD, panic attacks & social anxiety), depression, grief, trauma and PTSD, addiction, schizophrenia, bipolar & personality disorders (BPD), Alzheimer's & dementia including caretaking burden of the family to improve their quality of life.
(301) 900-6396 View (301) 900-6396
Photo of Amy Henry, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cumberland, MD
Amy Henry
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Potomac, MD 20878  (Online Only)
Licensed in MD, DC, VA, NJ. If you’re reading this, then you’ve already taken the first step toward healing. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, eating disorder, trauma, or other challenges, I can help you forge a path forward. I will work collaboratively with you to establish personalized therapy goals tailored to your specific needs. I will work diligently to foster an environment in which you feel safe, accepted, seen, heard, and never judged. In our work together, you can expect me to be compassionate, honest, and real; I will be patient and encourage you to confront the deeper, underlying issues.
Licensed in MD, DC, VA, NJ. If you’re reading this, then you’ve already taken the first step toward healing. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, eating disorder, trauma, or other challenges, I can help you forge a path forward. I will work collaboratively with you to establish personalized therapy goals tailored to your specific needs. I will work diligently to foster an environment in which you feel safe, accepted, seen, heard, and never judged. In our work together, you can expect me to be compassionate, honest, and real; I will be patient and encourage you to confront the deeper, underlying issues.
(410) 612-3808 View (410) 612-3808
Photo of DBT Maryland LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cumberland, MD
DBT Maryland LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20878
At DBT Maryland, we believe that in order to grow and make changes in their lives, people need validation, support and practical skills. We strive to provide empathic, accepting and productive therapeutic relationships so you can feel safe while moving toward your goals. Each person's situation is unique and our therapy approach will be designed to meet your individual needs. Many of our clients suffer from problems of emotional dysregulation (borderline personality, PTSD, depression, anxiety & bipolar) most effectively addressed by a comprehensive Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) program.
At DBT Maryland, we believe that in order to grow and make changes in their lives, people need validation, support and practical skills. We strive to provide empathic, accepting and productive therapeutic relationships so you can feel safe while moving toward your goals. Each person's situation is unique and our therapy approach will be designed to meet your individual needs. Many of our clients suffer from problems of emotional dysregulation (borderline personality, PTSD, depression, anxiety & bipolar) most effectively addressed by a comprehensive Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) program.
(240) 301-1474 View (240) 301-1474
Photo of Jennifer Chen, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Cumberland, MD
Jennifer Chen
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, MA, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have over 12 years of experience working with diverse populations suffering from anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, PTSD, trauma, grief and loss, and behavioral and stress related issues.
Life certainly brings us many challenges along the way and my goal is to help you rediscover your joy and learn to choose yourself in navigating life’s demands and obstacles. Through a supportive, compassionate, and trusting relationship and environment, I hope to help you feel empowered to reclaim control and make positive changes in your life. You will learn to express, explore, understand, and accept underlying emotions, thoughts, and behaviors without judgment and with renewed compassion for yourself and others.
I have over 12 years of experience working with diverse populations suffering from anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, PTSD, trauma, grief and loss, and behavioral and stress related issues.
Life certainly brings us many challenges along the way and my goal is to help you rediscover your joy and learn to choose yourself in navigating life’s demands and obstacles. Through a supportive, compassionate, and trusting relationship and environment, I hope to help you feel empowered to reclaim control and make positive changes in your life. You will learn to express, explore, understand, and accept underlying emotions, thoughts, and behaviors without judgment and with renewed compassion for yourself and others.
(443) 241-6193 View (443) 241-6193
Photo of Debra L Anderson, Psychologist in Cumberland, MD
Debra L Anderson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Derwood, MD 20855
Expertise includes relationship counseling, utilization of CBT, EMDR and IFS for the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder, OCD, anxiety and mood disorders including bipolar disorder and ADHD.
I utilize a collaborative approach with clients to help them access their own innate potential for healing. I work to facilitate a broader mental wellness repertoire of self-assistance and coping strategies for improving quality of life. I have worked effectively with a broad range of life issues and problems starting from the initial session to promote a congenial and trusting working relationship. Clients with whom I work receive the respect and validation that we all want and deserve as personal and specific goals are established to help each person develop their most fulfilling life.
Expertise includes relationship counseling, utilization of CBT, EMDR and IFS for the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder, OCD, anxiety and mood disorders including bipolar disorder and ADHD.
I utilize a collaborative approach with clients to help them access their own innate potential for healing. I work to facilitate a broader mental wellness repertoire of self-assistance and coping strategies for improving quality of life. I have worked effectively with a broad range of life issues and problems starting from the initial session to promote a congenial and trusting working relationship. Clients with whom I work receive the respect and validation that we all want and deserve as personal and specific goals are established to help each person develop their most fulfilling life.
(301) 710-9729 View (301) 710-9729
Photo of Jan Hamill, Psychotherapist, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cumberland, MD
Jan Hamill, Psychotherapist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20879  (Online Only)
Are you feeling defeated? I am an experienced psychotherapist with 20 year's experience in mental health, addictions and life coaching. I provide a trusting and caring environment while assisting you find your inner peace and emotional wellness. Some of the areas I have expertise in include depression, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, bipolar disorder, family issues, substance abuse, grief and loss. My therapy approaches include a mix of DBT, Mindfulness, CBT, Psychodynamic and Family Systems. I offer individual and couples therapy via telehealth. Please feel free to call me and briefly discuss your issues at 301-765-9475.
Are you feeling defeated? I am an experienced psychotherapist with 20 year's experience in mental health, addictions and life coaching. I provide a trusting and caring environment while assisting you find your inner peace and emotional wellness. Some of the areas I have expertise in include depression, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, bipolar disorder, family issues, substance abuse, grief and loss. My therapy approaches include a mix of DBT, Mindfulness, CBT, Psychodynamic and Family Systems. I offer individual and couples therapy via telehealth. Please feel free to call me and briefly discuss your issues at 301-765-9475.
(386) 649-2385 View (386) 649-2385
Photo of Breighone Brown, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cumberland, MD
Breighone Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Rockville, MD 20850
Are you suffering from symptoms of depression, ADHD, anxiety, bipolar, autism spectrum, OCD, and/or PTSD? I can help facilitate your healing process and provide a safe space to voice your deepest concerns freely. Our goal is to significantly improve your self-concept, increase a positive outlook on life, and, most importantly, feel like your best self.
Are you suffering from symptoms of depression, ADHD, anxiety, bipolar, autism spectrum, OCD, and/or PTSD? I can help facilitate your healing process and provide a safe space to voice your deepest concerns freely. Our goal is to significantly improve your self-concept, increase a positive outlook on life, and, most importantly, feel like your best self.
(240) 434-0568 View (240) 434-0568
Photo of Sierra Hartsfield, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cumberland, MD
Sierra Hartsfield
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LCSW
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20878  (Online Only)
My goal as a therapist is to provide a safe, supportive and nonjudgmental environment, to build a healthy and strong therapeutic relationship in order to start the healing process. By working together you will explore and process feelings, beliefs, or behaviors, and identify personal goals to improve problem areas in your life. I work with adolescents, adults and families. I specialize in treating numerous presenting problems including, depression, anxiety, ADHD, behavior management, life transitions and bipolar disorder.
My goal as a therapist is to provide a safe, supportive and nonjudgmental environment, to build a healthy and strong therapeutic relationship in order to start the healing process. By working together you will explore and process feelings, beliefs, or behaviors, and identify personal goals to improve problem areas in your life. I work with adolescents, adults and families. I specialize in treating numerous presenting problems including, depression, anxiety, ADHD, behavior management, life transitions and bipolar disorder.
(240) 455-4597 View (240) 455-4597
Photo of Karo Beygzadeh, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cumberland, MD
Karo Beygzadeh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Gaithersburg, MD 20878  (Online Only)
My clients gain insight, process their experiences and gain culturally sensitive skills to manage anxiety, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, ADHD, depression, and PTSD. We'll also explore and address stress related to work, transitions, shame, guilt, self-esteem, disappointment, isolation, communication, relationships (any configuration), identity, culture, trauma, grief, and loss. I work closely with each person to develop personalized treatment plans that target specific symptoms, needs, and goals. As a Middle Eastern & Kurdish immigrant, I also understand how the intersection of cultures, religions, and customs can affect people.
My clients gain insight, process their experiences and gain culturally sensitive skills to manage anxiety, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, ADHD, depression, and PTSD. We'll also explore and address stress related to work, transitions, shame, guilt, self-esteem, disappointment, isolation, communication, relationships (any configuration), identity, culture, trauma, grief, and loss. I work closely with each person to develop personalized treatment plans that target specific symptoms, needs, and goals. As a Middle Eastern & Kurdish immigrant, I also understand how the intersection of cultures, religions, and customs can affect people.
(301) 781-7942 View (301) 781-7942
Photo of Tracy Tsao, Counselor in Cumberland, MD
Tracy Tsao
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20878  (Online Only)
I look forward to the opportunity to work with you and support you to overcome complex issues, trauma, depression, anxiety, mood/bipolar symptoms, relationship stress, and more.
Hi! I am a culturally competent, trauma-informed therapist. My potential clients are looking for someone compassionate who can help them navigate the complexities of their lives. I am dedicated to providing a safe space for my clients to process and reflect on family systems, intergenerational and cultural-related issues and trauma, enmeshment, unhealthy attachment and boundaries, work-life balance and productivity, and/or other relationship conflicts. Self-esteem and self-worth issues, women's issues, avoidant behaviors, and unhealthy thinking patterns are just some of things we may work on in our sessions together.
I look forward to the opportunity to work with you and support you to overcome complex issues, trauma, depression, anxiety, mood/bipolar symptoms, relationship stress, and more.
Hi! I am a culturally competent, trauma-informed therapist. My potential clients are looking for someone compassionate who can help them navigate the complexities of their lives. I am dedicated to providing a safe space for my clients to process and reflect on family systems, intergenerational and cultural-related issues and trauma, enmeshment, unhealthy attachment and boundaries, work-life balance and productivity, and/or other relationship conflicts. Self-esteem and self-worth issues, women's issues, avoidant behaviors, and unhealthy thinking patterns are just some of things we may work on in our sessions together.
(301) 478-8419 View (301) 478-8419
Photo of Geraldine E McBrinn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cumberland, MD
Geraldine E McBrinn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Rockville, MD 20852
My areas of expertise include depression, bipolar, anxiety, psychosis, substance abuse, childhood mental health issues.
TELETHERAPY AVAILABLE. The idea of therapy can be overwhelming for anyone that hasn't sought it before or for someone who desires to restart therapy. My job as a licensed clinical social worker is not only to support you with whatever issue is taking place, but also to make you feel comfortable and safe to communicate what is usually very personal.
My areas of expertise include depression, bipolar, anxiety, psychosis, substance abuse, childhood mental health issues.
TELETHERAPY AVAILABLE. The idea of therapy can be overwhelming for anyone that hasn't sought it before or for someone who desires to restart therapy. My job as a licensed clinical social worker is not only to support you with whatever issue is taking place, but also to make you feel comfortable and safe to communicate what is usually very personal.
(301) 273-1728 View (301) 273-1728
Photo of Alexandra Mai, LMSW — Anxiety, Addiction, Biplolar in Cumberland, MD
Alexandra Mai, LMSW — Anxiety, Addiction, Biplolar
LMSW
Verified Verified
Rockville, MD 20852
In a warm and supportive atmosphere, you will get the help that you need to recover from anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, bipolar disorder, and other mental health challenges.
Do you or your teen struggle with anxiety, depression, or substance abuse? Do you need to heal from a recent or past trauma? Are you frequently nervous, or do you have trouble sleeping? In therapy, you can build coping skills that you can start applying right away in everyday life to feel calmer and more in control. We will work to equip you with the internal resources that you need to thrive. Our goal will be resilience and sustained healing. You can gain clarity on what matters to you most. You can open up to your feelings, thoughts, and emotions. Contact me today to learn more about therapy. I am looking forward to helping!
In a warm and supportive atmosphere, you will get the help that you need to recover from anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, bipolar disorder, and other mental health challenges.
Do you or your teen struggle with anxiety, depression, or substance abuse? Do you need to heal from a recent or past trauma? Are you frequently nervous, or do you have trouble sleeping? In therapy, you can build coping skills that you can start applying right away in everyday life to feel calmer and more in control. We will work to equip you with the internal resources that you need to thrive. Our goal will be resilience and sustained healing. You can gain clarity on what matters to you most. You can open up to your feelings, thoughts, and emotions. Contact me today to learn more about therapy. I am looking forward to helping!
(301) 781-7972 View (301) 781-7972
Photo of Anne L. Jenkins Lcsw-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cumberland, MD
Anne L. Jenkins Lcsw-C
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Hagerstown, MD 21740
Welcome! Making the decision to look for support is not an easy one, but I am glad you have taken the first step. My name is Anne Jenkins (Lawrence). My path has always brought me to a place where I was able to collaborate and assist in the process of healing from trauma. I am also experienced in treating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders; supporting persons who are members of the neurodivergent population navigate their experiences; supporting individuals who are discovering their gender identity and/or sexual identity as well as persons navigating change, grief and loss.
Welcome! Making the decision to look for support is not an easy one, but I am glad you have taken the first step. My name is Anne Jenkins (Lawrence). My path has always brought me to a place where I was able to collaborate and assist in the process of healing from trauma. I am also experienced in treating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders; supporting persons who are members of the neurodivergent population navigate their experiences; supporting individuals who are discovering their gender identity and/or sexual identity as well as persons navigating change, grief and loss.
(301) 835-2523 View (301) 835-2523

Nearby Bipolar Disorder Therapists Searches for Cumberland

See More Bipolar Disorder Therapists

Nearby Searches for Cumberland

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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.