Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Pittsburgh, PA

Photo of Madison Dobas, Pre-Licensed Professional in Pittsburgh, PA
Madison Dobas
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15228
I am a pre-licensed, Master’s level therapist who works with adults struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, grief, trauma, addiction, and substance use. My goal is to help clients navigate their feelings and offer a path forward to healing.
I am a pre-licensed, Master’s level therapist who works with adults struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, grief, trauma, addiction, and substance use. My goal is to help clients navigate their feelings and offer a path forward to healing.
(412) 912-4796 View (412) 912-4796
Photo of Dr. Steven S Carter, Psychologist in Pittsburgh, PA
Dr. Steven S Carter
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
My name is Dr. Steven S. Carter. I am a research and clinical psychologist whose career began in The Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. My work involved the study of Anxiety, Depression and Bipolar Disorder. I have been trained in Interpersonal, Cognitive and Behavioral therapies. I am currently in private practice. I offer individual, couples and family therapy. Recently, I have been working with families to help them understand family members who do have a mood disorder. My approach is to listen and learn from you. I think this is the best way to build a trusting relationship between us.
My name is Dr. Steven S. Carter. I am a research and clinical psychologist whose career began in The Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. My work involved the study of Anxiety, Depression and Bipolar Disorder. I have been trained in Interpersonal, Cognitive and Behavioral therapies. I am currently in private practice. I offer individual, couples and family therapy. Recently, I have been working with families to help them understand family members who do have a mood disorder. My approach is to listen and learn from you. I think this is the best way to build a trusting relationship between us.
(412) 368-0482 View (412) 368-0482
Photo of James W Ellermeyer, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
James W Ellermeyer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
Using a mindfulness-based cognitive approach, I help people deal with self-concept, self-esteem, identity formation and develop the ability to make conscious choices. I deal with bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, anxiety, and depression. I have been successful with my own full impact mindfulness technique in dealing with disassociation and psychosis, PTSD and trauma.
Using a mindfulness-based cognitive approach, I help people deal with self-concept, self-esteem, identity formation and develop the ability to make conscious choices. I deal with bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, anxiety, and depression. I have been successful with my own full impact mindfulness technique in dealing with disassociation and psychosis, PTSD and trauma.
(412) 419-0972 View (412) 419-0972
Photo of Carolyn Weimer, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Carolyn Weimer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15222  (Online Only)
Struggling with trauma, PTSD, or bipolar disorder? Your mental health is my priority. You're seeking support to manage these conditions, improve your mental health, and find stability. I'm here to help you achieve your goals and lead a fulfilling life.
Struggling with trauma, PTSD, or bipolar disorder? Your mental health is my priority. You're seeking support to manage these conditions, improve your mental health, and find stability. I'm here to help you achieve your goals and lead a fulfilling life.
(412) 923-0121 View (412) 923-0121
Photo of Megan Herman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Megan Herman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15238
I have been working in mental health since 2011, with significant experience supervising a multi-disciplinary mental health community treatment team serving adults with bipolar and psychosis related disorders as well as offering support to families.
Accepting NEW clients! Hi! My name is Megan. I am a 40-something working mother of two, and I have been a licensed psychotherapist since 2014. I am passionate about helping others live their lives in fulfilling and meaningful ways, based on their personal values and needs. I am the sole owner of CAYA Counseling Services (CAYA stands for Come As You Are). I deeply believe in finding your authentic, true self and feeling good in your own skin. Sometimes therapy can help with solving a problem, making change or simply gaining insight into the self. Treatment goals are client driven and success is measured by you.
I have been working in mental health since 2011, with significant experience supervising a multi-disciplinary mental health community treatment team serving adults with bipolar and psychosis related disorders as well as offering support to families.
Accepting NEW clients! Hi! My name is Megan. I am a 40-something working mother of two, and I have been a licensed psychotherapist since 2014. I am passionate about helping others live their lives in fulfilling and meaningful ways, based on their personal values and needs. I am the sole owner of CAYA Counseling Services (CAYA stands for Come As You Are). I deeply believe in finding your authentic, true self and feeling good in your own skin. Sometimes therapy can help with solving a problem, making change or simply gaining insight into the self. Treatment goals are client driven and success is measured by you.
(412) 910-2396 View (412) 910-2396
Photo of Vincent A Pietropaoli, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Vincent A Pietropaoli
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPC, NCC, CTMH
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15210  (Online Only)
I have more than five years of counseling experience working with individuals of all ages and many presenting problems. I have the most extensive experience working with people with mood related problems (such as: anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and others) and those who have experienced traumatic events.
I have more than five years of counseling experience working with individuals of all ages and many presenting problems. I have the most extensive experience working with people with mood related problems (such as: anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and others) and those who have experienced traumatic events.
(878) 203-1183 View (878) 203-1183
Photo of Marnie Stanton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pittsburgh, PA
Marnie Stanton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15237  (Online Only)
I work with individuals who are navigating difficult seasons of life, seeking support in processing painful events and challenges and in finding the best next steps to take. I assist clients with adjustment to stressors and life transitions, depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, postpartum depression, grief and loss, self-criticism, shame and self-doubt. My greatest passion in this work is helping clients to identify their strengths, recognize their own worth and develop a stronger and more compassionate sense of self. In doing this, it becomes easier for clients to process pain, learn new skills and pursue their goals.
I work with individuals who are navigating difficult seasons of life, seeking support in processing painful events and challenges and in finding the best next steps to take. I assist clients with adjustment to stressors and life transitions, depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, postpartum depression, grief and loss, self-criticism, shame and self-doubt. My greatest passion in this work is helping clients to identify their strengths, recognize their own worth and develop a stronger and more compassionate sense of self. In doing this, it becomes easier for clients to process pain, learn new skills and pursue their goals.
(412) 991-1084 View (412) 991-1084
Photo of Todd Schachter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pittsburgh, PA
Todd Schachter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15237
I can treat anyone from 10 to 65, but specialize in treating children and adolescents with impulse control and attention deficit issues, child and adult autism , child and adult anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, school related phobias, unhealthy habits / addictions, anger management, trauma, and family conflict.
You do not need a diagnosis of ADHD, anxiety or depression to benefit from therapy. Life can be hard enough without barriers at every turn. Constant challenges within a child’s education system, adolescents unhealthy social media habits, difficult relationships, and even from time to time conflict within the family can cause stress. Stress can explode in detrimental ways and times when not fully treated. Together, we can help break down life’s barriers so you and your child can achieve their full potential.
I can treat anyone from 10 to 65, but specialize in treating children and adolescents with impulse control and attention deficit issues, child and adult autism , child and adult anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, school related phobias, unhealthy habits / addictions, anger management, trauma, and family conflict.
You do not need a diagnosis of ADHD, anxiety or depression to benefit from therapy. Life can be hard enough without barriers at every turn. Constant challenges within a child’s education system, adolescents unhealthy social media habits, difficult relationships, and even from time to time conflict within the family can cause stress. Stress can explode in detrimental ways and times when not fully treated. Together, we can help break down life’s barriers so you and your child can achieve their full potential.
(878) 645-3173 View (878) 645-3173
Photo of Kayleigh Billings, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Kayleigh Billings
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15229  (Online Only)
I am a PA licensed counselor, with experience working with folks with addictions and substance abuse issues,a s well as mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, and Bipolar disorder.
Anyone willing to come to therapy in the first place is at least somewhat willing to make some changes. Someone who is willing to both process feelings and identify the why in situations, as well as learn some skills and strategies to manage the issues bringing you to therapy in the first place is someone I would work well with. Clients can have short-term goals for therapy, or longer-term needs.
I am a PA licensed counselor, with experience working with folks with addictions and substance abuse issues,a s well as mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, and Bipolar disorder.
Anyone willing to come to therapy in the first place is at least somewhat willing to make some changes. Someone who is willing to both process feelings and identify the why in situations, as well as learn some skills and strategies to manage the issues bringing you to therapy in the first place is someone I would work well with. Clients can have short-term goals for therapy, or longer-term needs.
(412) 743-9806 View (412) 743-9806
David E Levit
Psychologist, PSY
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15237
I was born and raised in Pittsburgh. I earned my doctorate at Nova University School of Professional Psychology, my Master's Degree at Duquesne University, and my Bachelor's Degree from Washington and Jefferson College. I completed an APA approved internship at the VA Medical Center in Salem Virginia. My almost thirty years experience is in both inpatient and outpatient psychotherapy, and have worked in private practice since 1985. I have extensive experience working with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. I treat a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, relationship issues, anger management, ADD/ADHD/ODD, loss, behavioral management, and thought disorders.
I was born and raised in Pittsburgh. I earned my doctorate at Nova University School of Professional Psychology, my Master's Degree at Duquesne University, and my Bachelor's Degree from Washington and Jefferson College. I completed an APA approved internship at the VA Medical Center in Salem Virginia. My almost thirty years experience is in both inpatient and outpatient psychotherapy, and have worked in private practice since 1985. I have extensive experience working with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. I treat a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, relationship issues, anger management, ADD/ADHD/ODD, loss, behavioral management, and thought disorders.
(412) 906-9181 View (412) 906-9181
Photo of Marcus Flournoy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pittsburgh, PA
Marcus Flournoy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
I was brought up in the helping tradition of the community where I was taught to give back to others. I have twenty years of experience in the mental health and drug and alcohol field. I have worked with individuals from all walks of life: socially, culturally, racially, economically, gender wise, and different sexual orientations and religions. I have conducted assessments, evaluations, individual therapy, family therapy and couple's therapy. I have treated individuals with a variety of conditions such as trauma, stress, depression including bipolar, anxiety, anger management problems, psychosis and addiction.
I was brought up in the helping tradition of the community where I was taught to give back to others. I have twenty years of experience in the mental health and drug and alcohol field. I have worked with individuals from all walks of life: socially, culturally, racially, economically, gender wise, and different sexual orientations and religions. I have conducted assessments, evaluations, individual therapy, family therapy and couple's therapy. I have treated individuals with a variety of conditions such as trauma, stress, depression including bipolar, anxiety, anger management problems, psychosis and addiction.
(878) 220-3027 View (878) 220-3027
Photo of Shelby O'Brien, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Shelby O'Brien
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15205
Hi! My name is Shelby and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I have worked with clients ranging in age from 4-50 in the individual, family, and group settings. I have helped countless clients manage anxiety, depression, anger, suicidal thoughts, and process through various trauma. I have also worked with clients who have bipolar disorder and borderline personality disorder. I have also helped numerous clients navigate every day stressors related to family, school, work, and life changes. I love animals and am a believer that animals are also great healers and am interested in implementing other alternative forms of healing.
Hi! My name is Shelby and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I have worked with clients ranging in age from 4-50 in the individual, family, and group settings. I have helped countless clients manage anxiety, depression, anger, suicidal thoughts, and process through various trauma. I have also worked with clients who have bipolar disorder and borderline personality disorder. I have also helped numerous clients navigate every day stressors related to family, school, work, and life changes. I love animals and am a believer that animals are also great healers and am interested in implementing other alternative forms of healing.
(412) 413-9043 View (412) 413-9043
Photo of Brenda Slagle, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Brenda Slagle
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15222  (Online Only)
Brenda Slagle is a Nationally Board Certified Counselor (NCC) and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Pennsylvania with over 6 years of experience. Brenda specializes in treating clients with complex PTSD, major depression, panic disorder, borderline personality disorder, schizophrenia, addiction, social anxiety, bipolar, and others. She completed her Bachelor's degree in Psychology from the University of Pittsburgh and her Master's degree in Professional Counseling from Carlow University.
Brenda Slagle is a Nationally Board Certified Counselor (NCC) and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Pennsylvania with over 6 years of experience. Brenda specializes in treating clients with complex PTSD, major depression, panic disorder, borderline personality disorder, schizophrenia, addiction, social anxiety, bipolar, and others. She completed her Bachelor's degree in Psychology from the University of Pittsburgh and her Master's degree in Professional Counseling from Carlow University.
(412) 312-3960 View (412) 312-3960
Photo of Sandra Maria Pattinato, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Sandra Maria Pattinato
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd , LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15234
I have worked with a number of different issues including depression, anxiety, grief, adjustment disorders, bipolar disorder, PTSD, relationship issues, substance abuse and anger control.
I have 15 years of experience in the mental health field. I have worked in a number of different settings and with clients from a wide variety of backgrounds and cultures. My priority is to meet the client where he or she is and help him or her by providing support, aid and guidance, so the client can work through processing the past, identifying present patterns and taking steps toward long lasting changes while addressing the client’s fears, challenges and worries along the way.
I have worked with a number of different issues including depression, anxiety, grief, adjustment disorders, bipolar disorder, PTSD, relationship issues, substance abuse and anger control.
I have 15 years of experience in the mental health field. I have worked in a number of different settings and with clients from a wide variety of backgrounds and cultures. My priority is to meet the client where he or she is and help him or her by providing support, aid and guidance, so the client can work through processing the past, identifying present patterns and taking steps toward long lasting changes while addressing the client’s fears, challenges and worries along the way.
(412) 547-5734 View (412) 547-5734
Photo of Julia Longenecker, Psychologist in Pittsburgh, PA
Julia Longenecker
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15237  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT), and Interpersonal Social Rhythm Therapy (IPSRT) for depression, anxiety, grief, adjustment disorder/life transitions, bipolar disorder and psychosis/schizophrenia.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist whose practice is rooted in structured, time-limited therapy (often called evidence-based practice, or EBP) - delivering care that supports your goals, enhances your life, and builds skills to address symptom flare ups after therapy ends. I can see clients from over 30 states and DC so care disruptions will be minimized if you travel, move, or return home between semesters. Locations served are: AL, AZ, AR, CO, CT, DC, DE, GA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, ME, MD, MN, MO, NE, NC, NH, NJ, NV, OH, OK, PA, TN, TX, UT, VA, WA, WI, WV.
I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT), and Interpersonal Social Rhythm Therapy (IPSRT) for depression, anxiety, grief, adjustment disorder/life transitions, bipolar disorder and psychosis/schizophrenia.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist whose practice is rooted in structured, time-limited therapy (often called evidence-based practice, or EBP) - delivering care that supports your goals, enhances your life, and builds skills to address symptom flare ups after therapy ends. I can see clients from over 30 states and DC so care disruptions will be minimized if you travel, move, or return home between semesters. Locations served are: AL, AZ, AR, CO, CT, DC, DE, GA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, ME, MD, MN, MO, NE, NC, NH, NJ, NV, OH, OK, PA, TN, TX, UT, VA, WA, WI, WV.
(412) 838-3244 View (412) 838-3244
Photo of Melissa Alcorn Ferry, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pittsburgh, PA
Melissa Alcorn Ferry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15232
Melissa Alcorn-Ferry is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with more than 20 years of experience in the mental health field. She is energized by helping people reach their goals and potential. Melissa specializes in depression, anxiety, bipolar, trauma, addiction, grief, and life transitions. Melissa completed her Master of Social Work (MSW) at the University of Pittsburgh. She has worked in homes, schools, communities, partial hospitalization, and outpatient treatment programs.
Melissa Alcorn-Ferry is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with more than 20 years of experience in the mental health field. She is energized by helping people reach their goals and potential. Melissa specializes in depression, anxiety, bipolar, trauma, addiction, grief, and life transitions. Melissa completed her Master of Social Work (MSW) at the University of Pittsburgh. She has worked in homes, schools, communities, partial hospitalization, and outpatient treatment programs.
(412) 850-4622 View (412) 850-4622
Photo of Emily Green, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Emily Green
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15220
I have experience in working with individuals who struggle with anxiety, depression, ADHD, anger management, attachment issues, bipolar, psychotic-related disorders, self-esteem, grief and loss, and PTSD.
Life can be troublesome especially with adding a global pandemic into the mix. I aim to guide you through obstacles with a person-centered approach as I believe every individual is different and will tailor treatment to your specific needs.
I have experience in working with individuals who struggle with anxiety, depression, ADHD, anger management, attachment issues, bipolar, psychotic-related disorders, self-esteem, grief and loss, and PTSD.
Life can be troublesome especially with adding a global pandemic into the mix. I aim to guide you through obstacles with a person-centered approach as I believe every individual is different and will tailor treatment to your specific needs.
(412) 725-0397 View (412) 725-0397
Photo of Ashley Mudrinich, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Ashley Mudrinich
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15206  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My expertise also extends to how to manage diagnosed disorders such as PTSD and bipolar disorder.
Congratulations on taking the first step towards improving your mental health. It is often not easy navigating the stages of finding a therapist, and I applaud you for finding the strength to make the leap. I am here to make that leap as comfortable as possible, in a way that is most suitable to your needs. I am a person-centered, strength-based, and humanistic therapist. I look to help solidify what is good in a person and identify what can be modified in order to make someone feel more whole. My approach is warm, non-judgmental and genuine. Feel free to visit www.ashleys-counseling.com for more information.
My expertise also extends to how to manage diagnosed disorders such as PTSD and bipolar disorder.
Congratulations on taking the first step towards improving your mental health. It is often not easy navigating the stages of finding a therapist, and I applaud you for finding the strength to make the leap. I am here to make that leap as comfortable as possible, in a way that is most suitable to your needs. I am a person-centered, strength-based, and humanistic therapist. I look to help solidify what is good in a person and identify what can be modified in order to make someone feel more whole. My approach is warm, non-judgmental and genuine. Feel free to visit www.ashleys-counseling.com for more information.
(412) 534-5661 View (412) 534-5661
Photo of Maddie Canel, Pre-Licensed Professional in Pittsburgh, PA
Maddie Canel
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15201
I have lived experience with neurodivergence, depression, anxiety, and being in a plus sized body. I have experience working with the above as well as clients with BPD, Bipolar 1 & 2, PTSD, and clients who just feel like they need a safe space to discuss day to day life stressors. I stress to my clients that therapy is for everyone and there is no such thing as a "trauma olympics" where something is better or worse than others! I work with clients age 6+.
I have lived experience with neurodivergence, depression, anxiety, and being in a plus sized body. I have experience working with the above as well as clients with BPD, Bipolar 1 & 2, PTSD, and clients who just feel like they need a safe space to discuss day to day life stressors. I stress to my clients that therapy is for everyone and there is no such thing as a "trauma olympics" where something is better or worse than others! I work with clients age 6+.
(412) 307-9823 View (412) 307-9823
Photo of John A Impavido, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
John A Impavido
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, CAADC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15212
Other areas of experience include marriage counseling, group therapy, depression/anxiety, bipolar disorders, and obsessive/compulsive disorder (OCD) treatment.
John Impavido is a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor. he received his Master's Degree from the University of Pittsburgh in Counselor Education. his Bachelor's Degree is from Toccoa Falls College, where he majored in Bible and Theology, with minors in Pastoral Ministries and Christian Education. Mr. Impavido has been a pioneer in the treatment of SEXUAL and PORNOGRAPHY ADDICTION since 1985. he has been very influential in establishing the Sexaholics Anonymous and Every Man's Battle meetings in the Greater Pittsburgh area.
Other areas of experience include marriage counseling, group therapy, depression/anxiety, bipolar disorders, and obsessive/compulsive disorder (OCD) treatment.
John Impavido is a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor. he received his Master's Degree from the University of Pittsburgh in Counselor Education. his Bachelor's Degree is from Toccoa Falls College, where he majored in Bible and Theology, with minors in Pastoral Ministries and Christian Education. Mr. Impavido has been a pioneer in the treatment of SEXUAL and PORNOGRAPHY ADDICTION since 1985. he has been very influential in establishing the Sexaholics Anonymous and Every Man's Battle meetings in the Greater Pittsburgh area.
(412) 339-2083 View (412) 339-2083
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.