Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Brentwood, TN

Photo of Paul E. Gray, Pre-Licensed Professional in Brentwood, TN
Paul E. Gray
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brentwood, TN 37027
I started my career at McLean Hospital, a Harvard Medical School Affiliate in Belmont, Massachusetts, where I primarily worked with those suffering from bipolar and schizophrenia as well as serving as a member of the hospital’s Patient Family Advisory Council.
All of us are born inherently valuable and that never changes. Unfortunately, things like depression, anxiety, trauma, OCD and addiction may have us questioning that truth. We often become our own worst critic especially at a time when we need encouragement, guidance and perspective the most. Since 2011 when I began working in mental health my primary mission has been to challenge the negative self-talk, that only keeps us in a downward depressed cycle. My approach is rooted in person-centered therapy along with cognitive behavior therapy, motivational interviewing, experiential therapy and EMDR depending on the client’s needs.
I started my career at McLean Hospital, a Harvard Medical School Affiliate in Belmont, Massachusetts, where I primarily worked with those suffering from bipolar and schizophrenia as well as serving as a member of the hospital’s Patient Family Advisory Council.
All of us are born inherently valuable and that never changes. Unfortunately, things like depression, anxiety, trauma, OCD and addiction may have us questioning that truth. We often become our own worst critic especially at a time when we need encouragement, guidance and perspective the most. Since 2011 when I began working in mental health my primary mission has been to challenge the negative self-talk, that only keeps us in a downward depressed cycle. My approach is rooted in person-centered therapy along with cognitive behavior therapy, motivational interviewing, experiential therapy and EMDR depending on the client’s needs.
(629) 276-9672 View (629) 276-9672
Photo of Gayle Anderson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Brentwood, TN
Gayle Anderson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-MHS
Verified Verified
Brentwood, TN 37027  (Online Only)
I've worked with clients in setting goals as it pertains to surviving and moving past trauma, anxiety, abuse, and fear of abandonment, along with mood symptoms associated with bipolar disorder.
Hello! I am an LPC-MHSP residing in Tennessee. I became involved in working with both teens and adults who have been abused or traumatized after seeing how much it can impact their lives. I see strengths in all of my clients and I work with them to recognize them, and how they can use their strengths to help them move forward and achieve their dreams without allowing past trauma, anxiety, abuse or other symptoms to prevent them from doing so.
I've worked with clients in setting goals as it pertains to surviving and moving past trauma, anxiety, abuse, and fear of abandonment, along with mood symptoms associated with bipolar disorder.
Hello! I am an LPC-MHSP residing in Tennessee. I became involved in working with both teens and adults who have been abused or traumatized after seeing how much it can impact their lives. I see strengths in all of my clients and I work with them to recognize them, and how they can use their strengths to help them move forward and achieve their dreams without allowing past trauma, anxiety, abuse or other symptoms to prevent them from doing so.
(423) 621-4167 View (423) 621-4167
Photo of Courtney S Peterson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Brentwood, TN
Courtney S Peterson
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Brentwood, TN 37027
Not one of us is immune to struggles in life. You may be experiencing stress or a life transition. Perhaps you struggle with anxiety or depression. Eating disorders or personality disorders. You may be having trouble communicating with your partner. Maybe you’ve experienced infidelity. It might be that your family needs therapy to heal. We could all use a little help from time to time. I’m here to support you no matter the issue. I specialize in depression, anxiety, bipolar, eating disorders, relationship struggles, and LGBTQ mental health.
Not one of us is immune to struggles in life. You may be experiencing stress or a life transition. Perhaps you struggle with anxiety or depression. Eating disorders or personality disorders. You may be having trouble communicating with your partner. Maybe you’ve experienced infidelity. It might be that your family needs therapy to heal. We could all use a little help from time to time. I’m here to support you no matter the issue. I specialize in depression, anxiety, bipolar, eating disorders, relationship struggles, and LGBTQ mental health.
(615) 265-1613 View (615) 265-1613
Photo of Darragh Bugter, Licensed Professional Counselor in Brentwood, TN
Darragh Bugter
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Brentwood, TN 37027
I have experience in helping clients with anxiety disorders, panic disorder, mood disorders, bipolar disorder, anger management, motivation issues, self esteem and confidence issues, PTSD, personality disorders, ASD, and AD(H)D.
My passion is providing therapy services for adolescents, teenagers, and young adults (12-35). I am licensed in Tennessee with 10 years of professional work experience in America as well as the Netherlands. Prior to my time at private practice, I was fortunate to work with a diverse population facing a broad spectrum of clinical issues in the community and local mental health centers. I have experience as a therapist in crisis care, PHP/IOP, inpatient, and residential settings. For more information on my previous work experience, please consider viewing my LinkedIn profile.
I have experience in helping clients with anxiety disorders, panic disorder, mood disorders, bipolar disorder, anger management, motivation issues, self esteem and confidence issues, PTSD, personality disorders, ASD, and AD(H)D.
My passion is providing therapy services for adolescents, teenagers, and young adults (12-35). I am licensed in Tennessee with 10 years of professional work experience in America as well as the Netherlands. Prior to my time at private practice, I was fortunate to work with a diverse population facing a broad spectrum of clinical issues in the community and local mental health centers. I have experience as a therapist in crisis care, PHP/IOP, inpatient, and residential settings. For more information on my previous work experience, please consider viewing my LinkedIn profile.
(615) 392-6499 View (615) 392-6499
Photo of Gwen Burke, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brentwood, TN
Gwen Burke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brentwood, TN 37027
My goal while working with individuals and couples in therapy is to help you cope with emotional pain and life stressors in order for you to lead a healthier and happier life. I want to assist you in thriving not just surviving life. I have experience utilizing Cognitive Behavioral, Family Systems and Solution Focused therapy techniques to help people to cope with depression, bipolar, anxiety, grief and loss, stress management, and other major life transitions such as deciding to have children, launching children, and caretaking parents.
My goal while working with individuals and couples in therapy is to help you cope with emotional pain and life stressors in order for you to lead a healthier and happier life. I want to assist you in thriving not just surviving life. I have experience utilizing Cognitive Behavioral, Family Systems and Solution Focused therapy techniques to help people to cope with depression, bipolar, anxiety, grief and loss, stress management, and other major life transitions such as deciding to have children, launching children, and caretaking parents.
(629) 205-7970 View (629) 205-7970
Photo of Justin Nixon, Licensed Professional Counselor in Brentwood, TN
Justin Nixon
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, NCC
Verified Verified
Brentwood, TN 37027
If you’re frustrated with long waiting list to get in and therapist not taking new clients I have just updated this profile in April. Right now I really do have openings for new clients. I am offering a 20 minuet new client free consultation to give everyone the opportunity to see if we are a good fit. So, for those uncertain about cost or if I can bill to your particular insurance plan or perhaps concerned that a male therapist would be dismissive and unable to help I encourage you to take me up on this free consultation. My niche is depression, (including bipolar) anxiety/panic, anger, borderline personality disorder.
If you’re frustrated with long waiting list to get in and therapist not taking new clients I have just updated this profile in April. Right now I really do have openings for new clients. I am offering a 20 minuet new client free consultation to give everyone the opportunity to see if we are a good fit. So, for those uncertain about cost or if I can bill to your particular insurance plan or perhaps concerned that a male therapist would be dismissive and unable to help I encourage you to take me up on this free consultation. My niche is depression, (including bipolar) anxiety/panic, anger, borderline personality disorder.
(615) 502-4146 View (615) 502-4146
Photo of Amanda Harrell, Psychologist in Brentwood, TN
Amanda Harrell
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Brentwood, TN 37027  (Online Only)
I have had the pleasure of doing therapy and helping my clients achieve their goals since 2002. Some clients have seen me for help with Depression, Anxiety or Bipolar Disorders. Some have had a history of self esteem issues or relationship conflicts with others. I have also worked with clients who are usually "okay" emotionally, but need extra support and assistance as they go through a rough time dealing with a particular stressor in their lives including divorce, grief over a loss or death of a loved one, losing a job, transitioning to retirement or adulthood, etc.
I have had the pleasure of doing therapy and helping my clients achieve their goals since 2002. Some clients have seen me for help with Depression, Anxiety or Bipolar Disorders. Some have had a history of self esteem issues or relationship conflicts with others. I have also worked with clients who are usually "okay" emotionally, but need extra support and assistance as they go through a rough time dealing with a particular stressor in their lives including divorce, grief over a loss or death of a loved one, losing a job, transitioning to retirement or adulthood, etc.
(615) 239-0660 View (615) 239-0660
Photo of Lara Branscomb Jackson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Brentwood, TN
Lara Branscomb Jackson
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPCMHSP
Verified Verified
Brentwood, TN 37027
I specialize in attachment, relationships, eating disorders, understanding & managing bipolar disorder, & family systems.
I believe that understanding our attachment style is one avenue to self-discovery. I use an integrative approach to help clients improve their connection with others and create a life of hope and purpose. My goal is to help clients improve their quality of life, increase self compassion, develop coping skills boundaries, decrease suffering, and improve body image. I work with adolescents, adults, couples, and families who struggle with relationships, chronic illness, stress, eating disorders/disordered eating, substance abuse, depression, anxiety, personality disorders, marital or family problems, grief and/or co-occurring disorders
I specialize in attachment, relationships, eating disorders, understanding & managing bipolar disorder, & family systems.
I believe that understanding our attachment style is one avenue to self-discovery. I use an integrative approach to help clients improve their connection with others and create a life of hope and purpose. My goal is to help clients improve their quality of life, increase self compassion, develop coping skills boundaries, decrease suffering, and improve body image. I work with adolescents, adults, couples, and families who struggle with relationships, chronic illness, stress, eating disorders/disordered eating, substance abuse, depression, anxiety, personality disorders, marital or family problems, grief and/or co-occurring disorders
(615) 861-2526 View (615) 861-2526
Photo of Jen Adams Biddle, Licensed Professional Counselor in Brentwood, TN
Jen Adams Biddle
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, MHSP, ACS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Brentwood, TN 37027
I have experience working with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, suicide and self-harm, trauma, borderline personality disorder, compulsive behaviors, parenting, and couples issues.
Are you tired of repeating the same old patterns? Feel like you've tried everything you know? Don't give up. I'm willing to go all in. My style is relational, straightforward, and genuine. I will work hard to help you figure out how to make life better! For work with couples, the goal is always to increase connection and satisfaction. If you've been to couples counseling before and are afraid it won't work, don't give up hope. There are specific tools I can teach you and guide you to use that are based on 40 years of research by John and Julie Gottman.
I have experience working with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, suicide and self-harm, trauma, borderline personality disorder, compulsive behaviors, parenting, and couples issues.
Are you tired of repeating the same old patterns? Feel like you've tried everything you know? Don't give up. I'm willing to go all in. My style is relational, straightforward, and genuine. I will work hard to help you figure out how to make life better! For work with couples, the goal is always to increase connection and satisfaction. If you've been to couples counseling before and are afraid it won't work, don't give up hope. There are specific tools I can teach you and guide you to use that are based on 40 years of research by John and Julie Gottman.
(615) 640-1397 View (615) 640-1397
Photo of Corin Stephenson, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Brentwood, TN
Corin Stephenson
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MMFT
Verified Verified
Brentwood, TN 37027
I have worked in both community mental health and closely with psychiatrists, and have experience treating anxiety, depressive disorders , bipolar disorders, chronic pain, life transitions, grief, trauma/PTSD, addiction, interpersonal difficulties in relationships, cutting and emotional dysregulation in adolescents, domestic violence, and parenting.
Wherever you are on your journey, my goal as a therapist is to help kindle a light on your path. Reaching out for help is not easy. I work to create a safe place by building a therapeutic relationship based on genuineness, trust, and empathy. Through dialogue, the aim is to deepen the meaning of your journey, compassionately addressing any issues in your life that may have led you to therapy. I specialize in treating adults, children, and families. I enjoy working directly with parents to provide parent education, and working with children using play and art therapy.
I have worked in both community mental health and closely with psychiatrists, and have experience treating anxiety, depressive disorders , bipolar disorders, chronic pain, life transitions, grief, trauma/PTSD, addiction, interpersonal difficulties in relationships, cutting and emotional dysregulation in adolescents, domestic violence, and parenting.
Wherever you are on your journey, my goal as a therapist is to help kindle a light on your path. Reaching out for help is not easy. I work to create a safe place by building a therapeutic relationship based on genuineness, trust, and empathy. Through dialogue, the aim is to deepen the meaning of your journey, compassionately addressing any issues in your life that may have led you to therapy. I specialize in treating adults, children, and families. I enjoy working directly with parents to provide parent education, and working with children using play and art therapy.
(615) 437-7932 View (615) 437-7932
Photo of HopeNation in Brentwood, TN
HopeNation
Not Verified Not Verified
Brentwood, TN 37027  (Online Only)
HopeNation offers assistance with: anxiety, depression, life transitions, academic difficulties, trauma, bipolar disorders, behavioral issues related to acting out & dysregulation, ADHD, grief & loss, social difficulties, impact of divorce, & adoption/foster care.
Does your child, teen or young adult (up to age 26) struggle to experience the best that life has to offer? As a parent do you have challenges that create overwhelm and distance between you and your child? As a young adult, are you at a loss for how to handle what life throws your way? HopeNation therapists offer hope and healing to children, teens, young adults and their families by empowering our clients to take charge of their lives. Proven interventions are used within a supportive and non-judgmental space that allows growth and transformation to take hold and flourish. You are not alone, reach out and connect today...
HopeNation offers assistance with: anxiety, depression, life transitions, academic difficulties, trauma, bipolar disorders, behavioral issues related to acting out & dysregulation, ADHD, grief & loss, social difficulties, impact of divorce, & adoption/foster care.
Does your child, teen or young adult (up to age 26) struggle to experience the best that life has to offer? As a parent do you have challenges that create overwhelm and distance between you and your child? As a young adult, are you at a loss for how to handle what life throws your way? HopeNation therapists offer hope and healing to children, teens, young adults and their families by empowering our clients to take charge of their lives. Proven interventions are used within a supportive and non-judgmental space that allows growth and transformation to take hold and flourish. You are not alone, reach out and connect today...
(629) 209-1769 View (629) 209-1769
Photo of J Lauren Webb, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brentwood, TN
J Lauren Webb
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brentwood, TN 37027
Lauren specializes in working with adults who are striving to adjust to/ cope with multiple stressors, uncertainty, change, and issues related to perfectionism, as well as adults who have been diagnosed with/ think they could benefit from assessment for and treatment of Anxiety Disorders, Depressive Disorders, Bipolar Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, and/ or certain Personality Disorders.
Lauren specializes in working with adults who are striving to adjust to/ cope with multiple stressors, uncertainty, change, and issues related to perfectionism, as well as adults who have been diagnosed with/ think they could benefit from assessment for and treatment of Anxiety Disorders, Depressive Disorders, Bipolar Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, and/ or certain Personality Disorders.
(615) 392-4923 View (615) 392-4923
Photo of Alison Moore, Licensed Professional Counselor in Brentwood, TN
Alison Moore
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Brentwood, TN 37027
Are you neurodivergent, Autistic, or suspect it? Do you have an autistic family member? Neurodivergence can manifest quite differently in people which can create unique challenges. However, I do find a common complaint. They often feel overwhelmed and anxious. They may believe they are not good enough and are frustrated with their adult life path. Many have experienced some form of trauma, which only adds to the struggle. Family members are often unsure how to support their loved one in adulthood. They want to feel happy, content, connected, and proud.
Are you neurodivergent, Autistic, or suspect it? Do you have an autistic family member? Neurodivergence can manifest quite differently in people which can create unique challenges. However, I do find a common complaint. They often feel overwhelmed and anxious. They may believe they are not good enough and are frustrated with their adult life path. Many have experienced some form of trauma, which only adds to the struggle. Family members are often unsure how to support their loved one in adulthood. They want to feel happy, content, connected, and proud.
(629) 209-6941 View (629) 209-6941
Photo of Ashley Maag, Licensed Professional Counselor in Brentwood, TN
Ashley Maag
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPCMHSP, NCC, CRC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brentwood, TN 37027  (Online Only)
Are you stuck repeating unhealthy patterns? Are you trying to figure out life after trauma? Maybe adjusting to a serious injury or diagnosis? As the director of With Purpose Counseling & Therapy, LLC I can help you address addiction, trauma, depression and other obstacles that may be in your way. Take the brave step today, Do Life With Purpose.
Are you stuck repeating unhealthy patterns? Are you trying to figure out life after trauma? Maybe adjusting to a serious injury or diagnosis? As the director of With Purpose Counseling & Therapy, LLC I can help you address addiction, trauma, depression and other obstacles that may be in your way. Take the brave step today, Do Life With Purpose.
(423) 295-7713 View (423) 295-7713
Photo of Sydney Petty, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brentwood, TN
Sydney Petty
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Brentwood, TN 37027
Hi there! I am humbled and excited to walk with you on your therapy journey! I am passionate about working with those experiencing OCD, Anxiety, Depression, and Trauma-Related distress and dysfunction. I work to create meaningful and sustainable change both inside and outside of the therapy office. Walking alongside clients and families as they discover their own resiliency and “why” for embracing discomfort in a safe and supportive environment is my goal!
Hi there! I am humbled and excited to walk with you on your therapy journey! I am passionate about working with those experiencing OCD, Anxiety, Depression, and Trauma-Related distress and dysfunction. I work to create meaningful and sustainable change both inside and outside of the therapy office. Walking alongside clients and families as they discover their own resiliency and “why” for embracing discomfort in a safe and supportive environment is my goal!
(629) 276-4552 View (629) 276-4552
Photo of Steven Olivas, Psychologist in Brentwood, TN
Steven Olivas
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Brentwood, TN 37027
I've been a therapist for over thirty years and have always been skilled at building rapport and creating personalized strategies to help my clients. I have heard many stories throughout those years, but will devote my full attention toward understanding your history, point of view, and needs. Whether you feel your hurdles are big or small, I know they are important to you. Even if you've never given therapy a try, you're welcome here.
I've been a therapist for over thirty years and have always been skilled at building rapport and creating personalized strategies to help my clients. I have heard many stories throughout those years, but will devote my full attention toward understanding your history, point of view, and needs. Whether you feel your hurdles are big or small, I know they are important to you. Even if you've never given therapy a try, you're welcome here.
(629) 276-5401 View (629) 276-5401
Photo of Stuart Eldon Cook, Licensed Professional Counselor in Brentwood, TN
Stuart Eldon Cook
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brentwood, TN 37027
Anxiety exhausts, paralyzes, and overwhelms us. Depression leaves us feeling hopeless, worthless, and alone. ADHD can stifle our productivity while crushing our self-esteem. Addiction keeps us in bondage to that which will never truly satisfy. And marital and family relationships that were supposed to serve as secure bases can quickly become sources of tremendous pain and distress. You've tried to overcome these issues on your own but to no avail; you feel stuck and as though you've run out of options. But there is hope!
Anxiety exhausts, paralyzes, and overwhelms us. Depression leaves us feeling hopeless, worthless, and alone. ADHD can stifle our productivity while crushing our self-esteem. Addiction keeps us in bondage to that which will never truly satisfy. And marital and family relationships that were supposed to serve as secure bases can quickly become sources of tremendous pain and distress. You've tried to overcome these issues on your own but to no avail; you feel stuck and as though you've run out of options. But there is hope!
(901) 350-4503 View (901) 350-4503
Photo of Ailie Green, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brentwood, TN
Ailie Green
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brentwood, TN 37027  (Online Only)
I hold a belief that we are all doing the very best we can with the skills and the knowledge that we have. I also hold a belief that sometimes we need support to step into healthier skills and gain new knowledge to grow and to heal. Being human is messy, imperfection is our only option, and wow that can be hard to sit with sometimes. Whether you are searching for support because you are deep in struggle or you are searching for support because you are interested in growing as a human, I am here for it! If this is your first interaction with therapy OR you've tried therapy and want to give it another go, you are so welcome here!
I hold a belief that we are all doing the very best we can with the skills and the knowledge that we have. I also hold a belief that sometimes we need support to step into healthier skills and gain new knowledge to grow and to heal. Being human is messy, imperfection is our only option, and wow that can be hard to sit with sometimes. Whether you are searching for support because you are deep in struggle or you are searching for support because you are interested in growing as a human, I am here for it! If this is your first interaction with therapy OR you've tried therapy and want to give it another go, you are so welcome here!
(629) 205-7984 View (629) 205-7984
Photo of Stephanie Gwynn, Licensed Professional Counselor in Brentwood, TN
Stephanie Gwynn
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brentwood, TN 37027  (Online Only)
Welcome! Are you dealing with the lingering effects of trauma or struggling with the anxieties of daily life? Looking for a personable, empathetic, and energetic therapist? I am proud to walk on this healing journey with you, as you do not have to walk alone. My therapeutic approach is Holistic and person-centered. That is addressing the mind, body, and spirit while holding the belief that everyone is inherently driven toward and has the capacity for growth and self-actualization.
Welcome! Are you dealing with the lingering effects of trauma or struggling with the anxieties of daily life? Looking for a personable, empathetic, and energetic therapist? I am proud to walk on this healing journey with you, as you do not have to walk alone. My therapeutic approach is Holistic and person-centered. That is addressing the mind, body, and spirit while holding the belief that everyone is inherently driven toward and has the capacity for growth and self-actualization.
(629) 276-9680 View (629) 276-9680
Tree of Life Counseling & Consulting Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, MHSP, ADHD, CCSP
Verified Verified
Brentwood, TN 37027  (Online Only)
Life isn’t easy. Sometimes, the strongest people amongst us need a little help to work through some of life’s more challenging problems. Everyone has battles to fight and hurdles to overcome at some point. Whether you struggle with stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, and or any other issue you should know that there is hope for a better tomorrow.
Life isn’t easy. Sometimes, the strongest people amongst us need a little help to work through some of life’s more challenging problems. Everyone has battles to fight and hurdles to overcome at some point. Whether you struggle with stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, and or any other issue you should know that there is hope for a better tomorrow.
(615) 697-4739 View (615) 697-4739
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.