Photo of Alicia Jarman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oklahoma City, OK
Alicia Jarman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oklahoma City, OK 73112
I specialize in Abuse & Trauma (Physical, Sexual, & Emotional), trauma due to violent crime Bipolar, Depression, Grief & Loss, Mood & Anxiety Disorders, Marriage Conflict, Panic Disorders, Anger management, Parenting Challenges, Postpartum Depression, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Self-Esteem Issues, Sexual Dysfunction, and Stress Management.
Life can be a struggle at times. I have great respect for anyone who's willing to be vulnerable during the therapeutic process so they can meet their goals. I have devoted my life to helping people heal & bring balance back to their lives. I provide individual therapy. By using a wide range of tools & techniques, I help people overcome obstacles within themselves & in their relationships. I've worked with clients to successfully address a wide variety of challenges related to interpersonal, home, family, & romantic relationships.
I specialize in Abuse & Trauma (Physical, Sexual, & Emotional), trauma due to violent crime Bipolar, Depression, Grief & Loss, Mood & Anxiety Disorders, Marriage Conflict, Panic Disorders, Anger management, Parenting Challenges, Postpartum Depression, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Self-Esteem Issues, Sexual Dysfunction, and Stress Management.
Life can be a struggle at times. I have great respect for anyone who's willing to be vulnerable during the therapeutic process so they can meet their goals. I have devoted my life to helping people heal & bring balance back to their lives. I provide individual therapy. By using a wide range of tools & techniques, I help people overcome obstacles within themselves & in their relationships. I've worked with clients to successfully address a wide variety of challenges related to interpersonal, home, family, & romantic relationships.
(405) 562-9581 View (405) 562-9581
Photo of Cynthia T McCoy LPC Emotional Wellness Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oklahoma City, OK
Cynthia T McCoy LPC Emotional Wellness Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Oklahoma City, OK 73120
My name is Cynthia Tobar-McCoy and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in New Mexico and Oklahoma. I am honored each day to walk along side individuals who choose to therapuetically journey through the path of overcoming life stressors. Stressors can come in the form of experiencing conflict in relationships with family, couples, marital and peer groups, as well as grief, trauma and suffering from posttraumatic stress. Stress can also manifest itself when working to maintain a healthy recovery plan that addresses certain medical conditions of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and obsessive compulsive disorder.
My name is Cynthia Tobar-McCoy and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in New Mexico and Oklahoma. I am honored each day to walk along side individuals who choose to therapuetically journey through the path of overcoming life stressors. Stressors can come in the form of experiencing conflict in relationships with family, couples, marital and peer groups, as well as grief, trauma and suffering from posttraumatic stress. Stress can also manifest itself when working to maintain a healthy recovery plan that addresses certain medical conditions of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and obsessive compulsive disorder.
(405) 335-0955 View (405) 335-0955
Photo of All Things Renewed Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oklahoma City, OK
All Things Renewed Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oklahoma City, OK 73135  (Online Only)
I also have experience working with clients struggling with depression, PTSD, anxiety, and bipolar disorder.
You are not alone. Life can be challenging at times and having a place to process life's complexities that arise can bring a sense of relief. I offer a non-judgmental and safe space where all parts of you are welcomed to come forward and will be met with empathy, curiosity, and compassion. I am drawn to empowering individuals and inspired by each client's unique resiliency. I believe we naturally have life experiences that create one's story and the ability to rewrite the story towards deeper meaning and purpose. I am passionate about supporting you to notice, explore and connect to all parts of you, towards a meaningful life.
I also have experience working with clients struggling with depression, PTSD, anxiety, and bipolar disorder.
You are not alone. Life can be challenging at times and having a place to process life's complexities that arise can bring a sense of relief. I offer a non-judgmental and safe space where all parts of you are welcomed to come forward and will be met with empathy, curiosity, and compassion. I am drawn to empowering individuals and inspired by each client's unique resiliency. I believe we naturally have life experiences that create one's story and the ability to rewrite the story towards deeper meaning and purpose. I am passionate about supporting you to notice, explore and connect to all parts of you, towards a meaningful life.
(405) 452-0509 View (405) 452-0509
Photo of Dawn Gibson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oklahoma City, OK
Dawn Gibson
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Oklahoma City, OK 73127
Additionally, I treat adults suffering from borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, and have extensive experience working with disabled children, adults and their families, including individuals and families living with Autism Spectrum Disorders.
My therapeutic approach is to provide insight, support and counseling to help clients effectively address behavioral challenges that significantly increase stress and inhibit quality of life. I combine traditional complementary methodologies that include Cognitive Behavioral, Adlerian, family systems and person-centered therapies with current neurological research to offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each client’s unique needs.
Additionally, I treat adults suffering from borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, and have extensive experience working with disabled children, adults and their families, including individuals and families living with Autism Spectrum Disorders.
My therapeutic approach is to provide insight, support and counseling to help clients effectively address behavioral challenges that significantly increase stress and inhibit quality of life. I combine traditional complementary methodologies that include Cognitive Behavioral, Adlerian, family systems and person-centered therapies with current neurological research to offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each client’s unique needs.
(405) 546-2452 View (405) 546-2452
Photo of Steven Resendez, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oklahoma City, OK
Steven Resendez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Oklahoma City, OK 73112  (Online Only)
Let’s be honest, therapy can be intimidating, but you’re ready to take the first step toward healing. I approach therapy as a partnership and together, we can navigate your journey of healing and self-discovery.
Let’s be honest, therapy can be intimidating, but you’re ready to take the first step toward healing. I approach therapy as a partnership and together, we can navigate your journey of healing and self-discovery.
(405) 251-6332 View (405) 251-6332
Photo of Annette Davenport, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oklahoma City, OK
Annette Davenport
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Oklahoma City, OK 73114  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I believe that life is a journey and not a destination. The past has brought you to where you are, however, you can decide where your journey will take you. As a therapist, I believe in treating the whole person. My role as a therapist is to provide clients with empathy and unconditional positive regard to facilitate change. It is important that the client develop his/her own journey to enhance their inner strengths to become the person they want to be. I love what I do. I come along beside my clients to develop a positive client/therapist relationship which is very important for fostering positive life changes.
I believe that life is a journey and not a destination. The past has brought you to where you are, however, you can decide where your journey will take you. As a therapist, I believe in treating the whole person. My role as a therapist is to provide clients with empathy and unconditional positive regard to facilitate change. It is important that the client develop his/her own journey to enhance their inner strengths to become the person they want to be. I love what I do. I come along beside my clients to develop a positive client/therapist relationship which is very important for fostering positive life changes.
(405) 972-6976 View (405) 972-6976
Photo of New Creation Counseling & Consulting Services, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oklahoma City, OK
New Creation Counseling & Consulting Services, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Oklahoma City, OK 73113  (Online Only)
Hello! I am committed to helping clients learn how to reach their identified goals for their wellbeing. My work focuses on confidentiality while providing a safe and secure environment to explore one’s thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Collaboratively we will identify your therapeutic goals at your own pace. I am passionate about creating an atmosphere that allows you to be transparent and free of judgment. I welcome you to schedule an appointment with me, and look forward to working with you as we, together, guide you into becoming what you were meant to be.
Hello! I am committed to helping clients learn how to reach their identified goals for their wellbeing. My work focuses on confidentiality while providing a safe and secure environment to explore one’s thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Collaboratively we will identify your therapeutic goals at your own pace. I am passionate about creating an atmosphere that allows you to be transparent and free of judgment. I welcome you to schedule an appointment with me, and look forward to working with you as we, together, guide you into becoming what you were meant to be.
(405) 450-7383 View (405) 450-7383
Photo of Victoria Whatley, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oklahoma City, OK
Victoria Whatley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS,, LPC-S, ADHD-, CCSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oklahoma City, OK 73114
Waitlist for new clients
I believe that all people have the ability to acknowledge the power of their choices and begin to use their voice to overcome their own unique challenges. My counseling style is caring and sensitive to your individual needs. I emphasize therapy as a collaborative process between the client and counselor. “When we are no longer able to change our situation, we are challenged to change ourselves.” Vicktor Frankl. I have been trained in Brainspotting. It is fascinating what the brain is capable of. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including,
I believe that all people have the ability to acknowledge the power of their choices and begin to use their voice to overcome their own unique challenges. My counseling style is caring and sensitive to your individual needs. I emphasize therapy as a collaborative process between the client and counselor. “When we are no longer able to change our situation, we are challenged to change ourselves.” Vicktor Frankl. I have been trained in Brainspotting. It is fascinating what the brain is capable of. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including,
(405) 251-6738 View (405) 251-6738
Photo of Connie C Edmondson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oklahoma City, OK
Connie C Edmondson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oklahoma City, OK 73116
I work with high functioning adults who need help with depression, anxiety, recovery from traumatic events, and trouble in their personal and professional relationships. Together we will work to find what best motivates you in achieving your unique goals.
I work with high functioning adults who need help with depression, anxiety, recovery from traumatic events, and trouble in their personal and professional relationships. Together we will work to find what best motivates you in achieving your unique goals.
(405) 328-7706 View (405) 328-7706
Photo of Marlon Breaux, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oklahoma City, OK
Marlon Breaux
Licensed Professional Counselor, M Ed, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Oklahoma City, OK 73103
I think what most of us are seeking is a life that feels meaningful and worthwhile. Sometimes, the hardest part of that work is knowing who we truly are, and knowing what we need to get us there. Beneath it all, we hunger for peace and clarity? I am confident these things are possible for each of us. However, occasionally we just need a little help sorting it all out. I am a secular/non-religious therapist providing somatic, experiential, and cognitive modalities. I provide an affirming environment wherein you can explore, grow, and become your most authentic self. If you are ready brave person, I'd love to hear your story.
I think what most of us are seeking is a life that feels meaningful and worthwhile. Sometimes, the hardest part of that work is knowing who we truly are, and knowing what we need to get us there. Beneath it all, we hunger for peace and clarity? I am confident these things are possible for each of us. However, occasionally we just need a little help sorting it all out. I am a secular/non-religious therapist providing somatic, experiential, and cognitive modalities. I provide an affirming environment wherein you can explore, grow, and become your most authentic self. If you are ready brave person, I'd love to hear your story.
(405) 358-4533 View (405) 358-4533
Photo of Jim Hale, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oklahoma City, OK
Jim Hale
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LADC-MH, BCN
Verified Verified
Oklahoma City, OK 73112
Seeking help from a therapist can make some people feel uncomfortable. Correcting the problems in your life is the most courageous move you can make. Your journey toward self-enrichment and understanding can begin as soon as you are ready to move into a new area where anything is possible. By scheduling a counseling session with me, you are creating a chance for positive change in your life. Whether your change is due to interrupting a negative cycle, gleaning a new and objective viewpoint, or by learning new tools to change your life.
Seeking help from a therapist can make some people feel uncomfortable. Correcting the problems in your life is the most courageous move you can make. Your journey toward self-enrichment and understanding can begin as soon as you are ready to move into a new area where anything is possible. By scheduling a counseling session with me, you are creating a chance for positive change in your life. Whether your change is due to interrupting a negative cycle, gleaning a new and objective viewpoint, or by learning new tools to change your life.
(405) 395-2485 View (405) 395-2485
Photo of Keela Worman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oklahoma City, OK
Keela Worman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MCP, LPC
Verified Verified
Oklahoma City, OK 73159  (Online Only)
Hello, I am glad you are here. Taking care of yourself is the most important thing that you can do for yourself! I appreciate you for taking the time to read my information. My name is Keela Worman. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with Growth Through Grace Counseling PLLC. I have had the privilege to work with various populations with various issues present. I am currently taking self-pay and BCBS patients only while waiting for other insurance approvals to come through. I’m trained in EMDR and currently taking new patients. We can focus on any issue you feel is important in your life. I am here for you!
Hello, I am glad you are here. Taking care of yourself is the most important thing that you can do for yourself! I appreciate you for taking the time to read my information. My name is Keela Worman. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with Growth Through Grace Counseling PLLC. I have had the privilege to work with various populations with various issues present. I am currently taking self-pay and BCBS patients only while waiting for other insurance approvals to come through. I’m trained in EMDR and currently taking new patients. We can focus on any issue you feel is important in your life. I am here for you!
(405) 963-2639 View (405) 963-2639
Photo of Liz Hemme, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Oklahoma City, OK
Liz Hemme
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MCP, LADC-MH, CCTP
Verified Verified
Oklahoma City, OK 73131
Waitlist for new clients
As the daughter of First Responders, and granddaughter to two Veterans, there is a special place in my heart for helping our Nations Hero's heal the wounds acquired while saving and protecting us! Thank You! The last 13 years I have had the pleasure of helping people with a range of mental, emotional and behavioral heath problems such as addictions to substances and behaviors, depression, anxiety, PTSD, parenting/family/relationship problems, life management, TBI, ASD, and treatment resistant depression in adults and teens. I am EMDR trained, working towards certification.
As the daughter of First Responders, and granddaughter to two Veterans, there is a special place in my heart for helping our Nations Hero's heal the wounds acquired while saving and protecting us! Thank You! The last 13 years I have had the pleasure of helping people with a range of mental, emotional and behavioral heath problems such as addictions to substances and behaviors, depression, anxiety, PTSD, parenting/family/relationship problems, life management, TBI, ASD, and treatment resistant depression in adults and teens. I am EMDR trained, working towards certification.
(405) 367-0598 View (405) 367-0598
Photo of Kirsten Vanderkolk, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oklahoma City, OK
Kirsten Vanderkolk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oklahoma City, OK 73112
Hello to you from an affirming, eclectic, down to earth human who happens to be a therapist. Thank you for taking the first step to creating intentional space for yourself. Vulnerability, exploration, new skills, facing past hurts, and living authentically can seem challenging and not easy at times. Change can be tough, even scary, yet create endless possibilities for living the life you choose. Yes this is possible! My most focused areas are traumas, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, relationships, toxic relationship healing. Also, teens surrounding childhood trauma, sexuality, and transition to adulthood. Teen life ain’t easy!
Hello to you from an affirming, eclectic, down to earth human who happens to be a therapist. Thank you for taking the first step to creating intentional space for yourself. Vulnerability, exploration, new skills, facing past hurts, and living authentically can seem challenging and not easy at times. Change can be tough, even scary, yet create endless possibilities for living the life you choose. Yes this is possible! My most focused areas are traumas, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, relationships, toxic relationship healing. Also, teens surrounding childhood trauma, sexuality, and transition to adulthood. Teen life ain’t easy!
(405) 240-9668 View (405) 240-9668
Photo of Vicki Harris Wyatt, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oklahoma City, OK
Vicki Harris Wyatt
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, LADC, CSAT, CMAT
Verified Verified
Oklahoma City, OK 73102
Your well-being is the reason I am a counselor. I provide individual, group, couples and marriage counseling along with a variety of other individual therapies. I provide a compassionate and realistic approach for men, women and couples needing help with love, sex and relationship addictions. Please visit http://wyattgroup.biz for more information. I am a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LADC) and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with certifications in DUI assessments, Certified Sexual Addiction Therapist (CSAT) and Certified Multiple Addictions Therapist (CMAT), Neurofeedback/ Biofeedback, Interactive Metronome (IM) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
Your well-being is the reason I am a counselor. I provide individual, group, couples and marriage counseling along with a variety of other individual therapies. I provide a compassionate and realistic approach for men, women and couples needing help with love, sex and relationship addictions. Please visit http://wyattgroup.biz for more information. I am a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LADC) and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with certifications in DUI assessments, Certified Sexual Addiction Therapist (CSAT) and Certified Multiple Addictions Therapist (CMAT), Neurofeedback/ Biofeedback, Interactive Metronome (IM) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
(405) 622-4669 View (405) 622-4669
Photo of Donnulette D Dulaney, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oklahoma City, OK
Donnulette D Dulaney
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Oklahoma City, OK 73159
The challenges of life sometimes seem scary and overwhelming. Do you feel knocked down by life time and time again? Do you ever feel broken and overwhelmed by intense feelings of pain and distress? If so, you are not alone. Adversity is inevitable as suffering is a part of the human experience of which none of us are exempt. Throughout life, personal experiences become stories. Giving meaning to those stories ultimately help form your identity. Understanding the meaning and impact of these stories can help create space between you and the issues that are causing distress, which will allow you to make sense of your behaviors.
The challenges of life sometimes seem scary and overwhelming. Do you feel knocked down by life time and time again? Do you ever feel broken and overwhelmed by intense feelings of pain and distress? If so, you are not alone. Adversity is inevitable as suffering is a part of the human experience of which none of us are exempt. Throughout life, personal experiences become stories. Giving meaning to those stories ultimately help form your identity. Understanding the meaning and impact of these stories can help create space between you and the issues that are causing distress, which will allow you to make sense of your behaviors.
Photo of Mosaic Therapy, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oklahoma City, OK
Mosaic Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oklahoma City, OK 73109
The choice to actively seek mental health services is wonderful step your wellbeing. We want to make the process as easy and comfortable as possible. People entering mental health need to feel heard and understood. There are many factors that affect our satisfaction in life. We will teach new skills and healthier ways to approach challenges. We believe that gaining understanding about yourself ultimately empowers you to have confidence and a sense of mastery. We have created a beautiful space where patients feel relaxed and receive highly personalized care. We want to affirm you on your decision to work on becoming your best self.
The choice to actively seek mental health services is wonderful step your wellbeing. We want to make the process as easy and comfortable as possible. People entering mental health need to feel heard and understood. There are many factors that affect our satisfaction in life. We will teach new skills and healthier ways to approach challenges. We believe that gaining understanding about yourself ultimately empowers you to have confidence and a sense of mastery. We have created a beautiful space where patients feel relaxed and receive highly personalized care. We want to affirm you on your decision to work on becoming your best self.
(405) 518-0082 View (405) 518-0082
Photo of Katrina R Rushing, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oklahoma City, OK
Katrina R Rushing
Licensed Professional Counselor, MHR, CMHC, LPC, ADSAC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Oklahoma City, OK 73114
Helping others is my passion! My experience ranges from individual adolescence/teen/adult, family, pre/post incarceration. I’m open, willing and ready to meet the client where they are and adamantly help work towards a resolution that encourages a better quality of life. I feel everyone matters, has their own path to travel but also have something positive to contribute. If you’re willing and ready to work on the things that are tough and that hinders progress, I am eager to help assist you through the issues no matter age, background, gender, race. I greet everyone with an open heart and much willingness to find balance.
Helping others is my passion! My experience ranges from individual adolescence/teen/adult, family, pre/post incarceration. I’m open, willing and ready to meet the client where they are and adamantly help work towards a resolution that encourages a better quality of life. I feel everyone matters, has their own path to travel but also have something positive to contribute. If you’re willing and ready to work on the things that are tough and that hinders progress, I am eager to help assist you through the issues no matter age, background, gender, race. I greet everyone with an open heart and much willingness to find balance.
(405) 444-8182 View (405) 444-8182
Photo of Dr. James R Simonson in Oklahoma City, OK
Dr. James R Simonson
MD
Verified Verified
Oklahoma City, OK 73120
Welcome to Integrative Psychiatry Oklahoma, where we offer holistic approaches to mental wellness. Our treatments, including ketamine infusion therapy and NAD+ supplementation, address the root causes of symptoms, promoting balance and fulfillment. With a focus on the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit, our compassionate professionals work with you to develop personalized solutions. Welcome to a place where healing is comprehensive, hope is abundant, and transformation is possible. Let us help you find your peace. Please visit our website for more information integrativepsychiatryoklahoma.com
Welcome to Integrative Psychiatry Oklahoma, where we offer holistic approaches to mental wellness. Our treatments, including ketamine infusion therapy and NAD+ supplementation, address the root causes of symptoms, promoting balance and fulfillment. With a focus on the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit, our compassionate professionals work with you to develop personalized solutions. Welcome to a place where healing is comprehensive, hope is abundant, and transformation is possible. Let us help you find your peace. Please visit our website for more information integrativepsychiatryoklahoma.com
(405) 777-7392 View (405) 777-7392
Photo of Nan McGowen, MS, LADC-MH, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oklahoma City, OK
Nan McGowen, MS, LADC-MH, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LADC-MH
Verified Verified
Oklahoma City, OK 73118
This work is my passion. In addition to working with individuals facing mental health issues such as depression, anxiety and difficulties with navigating life events I have specialized training in healing trauma, grief, childhood issues, and working with behavioral and substance addictions. I am deeply committed to respecting the dignity of each individual and creating a safe emotional environment to heal obstacles and difficulties in a positively focused way. I am committed to being culturally sensitive and aware of each individual's uniques assets and differences and helping them strengthen that as a part of who they are.
This work is my passion. In addition to working with individuals facing mental health issues such as depression, anxiety and difficulties with navigating life events I have specialized training in healing trauma, grief, childhood issues, and working with behavioral and substance addictions. I am deeply committed to respecting the dignity of each individual and creating a safe emotional environment to heal obstacles and difficulties in a positively focused way. I am committed to being culturally sensitive and aware of each individual's uniques assets and differences and helping them strengthen that as a part of who they are.
(405) 546-2316 View (405) 546-2316

See more therapy options for Oklahoma City

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.