Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Century City, CA

Photo of Dr. Cassidy Blair - Blair Wellness Group, A Professional Psych Corp., MA, PsyD, Psychologist
Blair Wellness Group, A Professional Psych Corp.
Psychologist, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
Century City, CA 90067
We specialize in treatment of Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar D/O, Addictions, Trauma, Intimacy and Relationship Issues, Eating D/O, Life Coaching and Performance Coaching.
We Offer Conceirge Psychology to Professionals Our goal is to help you create lasting change by using Evidenced- Based Treatment Models to treat Mood Disorders, Personality Disorders, Addictions, and Traumas. By focusing on high quality care and tailored treatment plans in an exclusive and caring environment, you will be supported to conquer challenges and gain mastery in your life and relationships. We offer Comprehensive Psychological Care and Performance Coaching exclusively customized to meet the Clinical needs and life challenges of Professional Men.
We specialize in treatment of Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar D/O, Addictions, Trauma, Intimacy and Relationship Issues, Eating D/O, Life Coaching and Performance Coaching.
We Offer Conceirge Psychology to Professionals Our goal is to help you create lasting change by using Evidenced- Based Treatment Models to treat Mood Disorders, Personality Disorders, Addictions, and Traumas. By focusing on high quality care and tailored treatment plans in an exclusive and caring environment, you will be supported to conquer challenges and gain mastery in your life and relationships. We offer Comprehensive Psychological Care and Performance Coaching exclusively customized to meet the Clinical needs and life challenges of Professional Men.
(424) 888-6124 View (424) 888-6124
Photo of Joanna Gillis, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joanna Gillis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Century City, CA 90067
I believe everyone can use some extra support sometimes. Whether you are seeking therapy to address a specific issue or because life feels overwhelming in general, I am here to help you identify your strengths, figure out how to cope with challenges, and guide you to increase your self esteem. Everyone's needs are unique, and I use a variety of evidence-based modalities. I provide a safe space for people to explore their deepest vulnerabilities with me. I am an empathetic listener, sensitive, compassionate, and I value the power of humor.
I believe everyone can use some extra support sometimes. Whether you are seeking therapy to address a specific issue or because life feels overwhelming in general, I am here to help you identify your strengths, figure out how to cope with challenges, and guide you to increase your self esteem. Everyone's needs are unique, and I use a variety of evidence-based modalities. I provide a safe space for people to explore their deepest vulnerabilities with me. I am an empathetic listener, sensitive, compassionate, and I value the power of humor.
(424) 338-9658 View (424) 338-9658
Photo of Molly Cahan, PsyD, Psychologist
Molly Cahan
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Century City, CA 90067
Life can be very difficult and relationships can be the source of much joy, but also of much pain. Talking about your problems with a non-judgmental, understanding, caring, and well-trained professional can help with life's questions, pain, and problems. I enjoy using a collaborative approach to help people find their own meanings. I specialize in working with young adults facing life's transitions and the accompanying feelings, fears, and decisions. I will work with you to process challenges with relationships and work through feelings of fear, uncertainty, and loneliness.
Life can be very difficult and relationships can be the source of much joy, but also of much pain. Talking about your problems with a non-judgmental, understanding, caring, and well-trained professional can help with life's questions, pain, and problems. I enjoy using a collaborative approach to help people find their own meanings. I specialize in working with young adults facing life's transitions and the accompanying feelings, fears, and decisions. I will work with you to process challenges with relationships and work through feelings of fear, uncertainty, and loneliness.
(424) 903-1568 View (424) 903-1568
Photo of Jenny Taitz, PsyD, ABPP, Psychologist
Jenny Taitz
Psychologist, PsyD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Century City, CA 90067
In my mind, the ideal psychologist is validating, transparent, practical, and experienced. As both a board certified CBT and DBT therapist, I teach tangible tools to get "unstuck" based on scientific research within a nonjudgmental, warm, environment. My hope is to help you move toward the life you want and create some distance from the thoughts and behaviors that might get in your way. My goal isn't only to help you feel better, but to holistically live better. I really enjoy working with college and graduate students, people pursuing life changes (such as career, relationship), and individuals facing medical problems.
In my mind, the ideal psychologist is validating, transparent, practical, and experienced. As both a board certified CBT and DBT therapist, I teach tangible tools to get "unstuck" based on scientific research within a nonjudgmental, warm, environment. My hope is to help you move toward the life you want and create some distance from the thoughts and behaviors that might get in your way. My goal isn't only to help you feel better, but to holistically live better. I really enjoy working with college and graduate students, people pursuing life changes (such as career, relationship), and individuals facing medical problems.
(646) 798-1322 View (646) 798-1322
Photo of Meisha (Mechelle) Thrasher, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Meisha (Mechelle) Thrasher
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
Century City, CA 90067  (Online Only)
I am a Mindfulness and Trauma Resilience trainer who believes success and happiness result from a balanced mindset. Being stuck in unhealthy patterns, failing to accomplish the change we desire, or sustaining the nurturing relationships we deserve are all issues we expect to resolve on our own, but when we can't we feel defeated. Therapy is support that helps unearth our own best solutions while increasing skills and practices that grow fulfillment.
I am a Mindfulness and Trauma Resilience trainer who believes success and happiness result from a balanced mindset. Being stuck in unhealthy patterns, failing to accomplish the change we desire, or sustaining the nurturing relationships we deserve are all issues we expect to resolve on our own, but when we can't we feel defeated. Therapy is support that helps unearth our own best solutions while increasing skills and practices that grow fulfillment.
(323) 736-4464 View (323) 736-4464
Photo of Chelsea Canning - www.Chelsea CanningLCSW.com, MSW, LCSW, C-ASWCM, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
www.Chelsea CanningLCSW.com
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, C-ASWCM
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Century City, CA 90067  (Online Only)
We all need a little help from time to time to pull ourselves out of our...grief, trauma, depression, confusing thoughts, self criticism, intense feelings, and improve our relationship with ourselves and others. Helping ease your painful moments is the most important work we can accomplish together. Sometimes we just need someone to stand by us, assure us that it's going to be okay and guide us through the tough parts. Please give me a call today, we can see how to work together for a better quality of life.
We all need a little help from time to time to pull ourselves out of our...grief, trauma, depression, confusing thoughts, self criticism, intense feelings, and improve our relationship with ourselves and others. Helping ease your painful moments is the most important work we can accomplish together. Sometimes we just need someone to stand by us, assure us that it's going to be okay and guide us through the tough parts. Please give me a call today, we can see how to work together for a better quality of life.
(424) 338-9400 View (424) 338-9400
Photo of Dr. Gilbert Chalepas - LGBTpsychologist.com - Dr. Gilbert Chalepas, PsyD, Psychologist
LGBTpsychologist.com - Dr. Gilbert Chalepas
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Century City, CA 90067
As an LGBTQIA+ affirming therapist, I understand how anxiety and low self esteem can be unrelenting companions, whispering worst-case scenarios and drowning out the voice of reason. The knots in your stomach, the racing heart, the feeling of impending doom. The weight of sadness can be suffocating, draining your energy and leaving you in a constant state of emotional numbness. Through our sessions, I will help you uncover the roots of your anxiety and sadness, providing you with coping strategies to manage their grip on your life. I want you to know that there is hope beyond this darkness and we will find it together.
As an LGBTQIA+ affirming therapist, I understand how anxiety and low self esteem can be unrelenting companions, whispering worst-case scenarios and drowning out the voice of reason. The knots in your stomach, the racing heart, the feeling of impending doom. The weight of sadness can be suffocating, draining your energy and leaving you in a constant state of emotional numbness. Through our sessions, I will help you uncover the roots of your anxiety and sadness, providing you with coping strategies to manage their grip on your life. I want you to know that there is hope beyond this darkness and we will find it together.
(310) 692-7017 View (310) 692-7017
Photo of Rachelle Sara Cohen - Rachelle Cohen - Beverly Hills Therapy for Adults, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rachelle Cohen - Beverly Hills Therapy for Adults
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Century City, CA 90067
The disease of "not good enough" infiltrates all aspects of our experience, robbing us of the joyful lives we deserve. We reject the parts of ourselves we don’t like, but acceptance, not rejection, is the key to growth. Only by accepting who we are today, can we become the person we want to be tomorrow! I am a licensed psychotherapist working with individuals, couples, and the queer community. I specialize in depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, harmful relationship patterns, and childhood relational trauma.
The disease of "not good enough" infiltrates all aspects of our experience, robbing us of the joyful lives we deserve. We reject the parts of ourselves we don’t like, but acceptance, not rejection, is the key to growth. Only by accepting who we are today, can we become the person we want to be tomorrow! I am a licensed psychotherapist working with individuals, couples, and the queer community. I specialize in depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, harmful relationship patterns, and childhood relational trauma.
(310) 589-3683 View (310) 589-3683

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Krista Edwards, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Krista Edwards
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90025  (Online Only)
My experience working in the area of mental health disorders such as bipolar, depression, anxiety and as a facilitator and at a mental health hospital.
Welcome my name is Krista Edwards I’m a licensed in the state of California and Arizona. I have 20 + year of experience in the field of helping clients with trauma and abuse, parenting issues, & bipolar disorder. I also have experience working with depression and bipolar clients. I have been working with children and families. With such vast of knowledge, I believe I am qualified to assist you move on to the next phase of your journey.
My experience working in the area of mental health disorders such as bipolar, depression, anxiety and as a facilitator and at a mental health hospital.
Welcome my name is Krista Edwards I’m a licensed in the state of California and Arizona. I have 20 + year of experience in the field of helping clients with trauma and abuse, parenting issues, & bipolar disorder. I also have experience working with depression and bipolar clients. I have been working with children and families. With such vast of knowledge, I believe I am qualified to assist you move on to the next phase of your journey.
(951) 904-6484 View (951) 904-6484
Photo of Christopher Joel Tromba, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Christopher Joel Tromba
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
West Hollywood, CA 90069
I specialize in working with adolescents and adults struggling with Bipolar, Depression, Relationship difficulties, and adjusting to the changes life brings.
You deserve a safe environment where you feel free to express yourself and seek to understand what makes you, you. I am excited about the power of the therapeutic process, and believe that working together we may achieve the change you seek.
I specialize in working with adolescents and adults struggling with Bipolar, Depression, Relationship difficulties, and adjusting to the changes life brings.
You deserve a safe environment where you feel free to express yourself and seek to understand what makes you, you. I am excited about the power of the therapeutic process, and believe that working together we may achieve the change you seek.
(805) 870-8901 View (805) 870-8901
Photo of Adella Jaeger, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Adella Jaeger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90064
 My areas of expertise include depression and anxiety, bipolar, child development, parenting, teens and maternal health.
Are you feeling "stuck," overwhelmed, or find yourself worrying about things beyond your control? You are looking for the right therapist, someone who will not only "get you," but will actually help you. I am not a stereotypical "so how does that make you feel" therapist. Yes, I am very empathetic, down to earth, caring, and intuitive.. And I am also practical. As a therapist with over a decade of experience, I am actively involved, goal oriented, and realistic. I am skilled at providing both traditional and cutting-edge therapies, using invaluable tools that can open the doors for the insight and clarity that you are searching for.
 My areas of expertise include depression and anxiety, bipolar, child development, parenting, teens and maternal health.
Are you feeling "stuck," overwhelmed, or find yourself worrying about things beyond your control? You are looking for the right therapist, someone who will not only "get you," but will actually help you. I am not a stereotypical "so how does that make you feel" therapist. Yes, I am very empathetic, down to earth, caring, and intuitive.. And I am also practical. As a therapist with over a decade of experience, I am actively involved, goal oriented, and realistic. I am skilled at providing both traditional and cutting-edge therapies, using invaluable tools that can open the doors for the insight and clarity that you are searching for.
(702) 710-0826 View (702) 710-0826
Photo of Lana Cohen, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Lana Cohen
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90034
You're feeling depressed, isolated, frustrated and angry with the state of the world. And yet you're still expected to keep up with overwhelming pressures and demands of day to day life. It can feel impossible. All this stress can cause us to lose sight of what’s important and end up stuck in the same unhelpful patterns in our work, our relationships, and our own thoughts. But it doesn't have to be this way. What if you could get back in touch with your hopes, dreams, and desires? I work with clients struggling with bipolar disorder or depression, job and career stress, loneliness, and relationship conflicts.
You're feeling depressed, isolated, frustrated and angry with the state of the world. And yet you're still expected to keep up with overwhelming pressures and demands of day to day life. It can feel impossible. All this stress can cause us to lose sight of what’s important and end up stuck in the same unhelpful patterns in our work, our relationships, and our own thoughts. But it doesn't have to be this way. What if you could get back in touch with your hopes, dreams, and desires? I work with clients struggling with bipolar disorder or depression, job and career stress, loneliness, and relationship conflicts.
(747) 269-6061 View (747) 269-6061
Photo of Dr. Alan E Clark, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Alan E Clark
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90064  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with over 35 years of private practice experience. I trained within APA-accredited doctoral programs and internship programs. I am licensed to practice psychology in both California and Colorado. I specialize in treating couples and individual adults presenting with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, grief, substance abuse, and relational conflict and dissatisfaction. I am trained in psycho-dynamic psychotherapy, but I also apply cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness, and interpersonal psychotherapy techniques to address the best methods for each individual and his or her issues and needs.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with over 35 years of private practice experience. I trained within APA-accredited doctoral programs and internship programs. I am licensed to practice psychology in both California and Colorado. I specialize in treating couples and individual adults presenting with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, grief, substance abuse, and relational conflict and dissatisfaction. I am trained in psycho-dynamic psychotherapy, but I also apply cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness, and interpersonal psychotherapy techniques to address the best methods for each individual and his or her issues and needs.
(310) 660-7462 View (310) 660-7462
Photo of Leslie Margolis, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Leslie Margolis
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Beverly Hills, CA 90212
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist as well as a Psychoanalytic candidate. In my work I aim to foster a safe, non-judgmental atmosphere in which individuals can develop insight and address non-productive patterns of behavior. I am experienced in treating a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder. I have successfully worked with individuals who were subjected to parental narcissism, neglect, abuse, and other difficult and painful circumstances. I am also experienced in working with newly single individuals who are struggling to redefine their lives.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist as well as a Psychoanalytic candidate. In my work I aim to foster a safe, non-judgmental atmosphere in which individuals can develop insight and address non-productive patterns of behavior. I am experienced in treating a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder. I have successfully worked with individuals who were subjected to parental narcissism, neglect, abuse, and other difficult and painful circumstances. I am also experienced in working with newly single individuals who are struggling to redefine their lives.
(424) 295-7352 View (424) 295-7352
Photo of Alyson DiRocco Fisher, PsyD, Psychologist
Alyson DiRocco Fisher
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90064
I specialize in treating bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, depression, and anxiety.
Connecting with the right therapist can be challenging. As a clinician, I strive to empower clients to make meaningful changes, while also helping them hold self-compassion in the process. I ground my work in evidence-based therapies, and use an in-depth case conceptualization to understand how problems are getting in the way of the life my clients want to lead.
I specialize in treating bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, depression, and anxiety.
Connecting with the right therapist can be challenging. As a clinician, I strive to empower clients to make meaningful changes, while also helping them hold self-compassion in the process. I ground my work in evidence-based therapies, and use an in-depth case conceptualization to understand how problems are getting in the way of the life my clients want to lead.
(310) 564-0785 View (310) 564-0785
Photo of Marcos Andrade, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Marcos Andrade
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90064
I have worked in community mental health, where I've supported clients grappling with bipolar disorder, addiction, substance abuse, and chronic mental health issues.
What's holding you back from starting your journey towards a brighter, more fulfilling life? I'm all about embracing authenticity and diving into your experiences and future aspirations. My approach is sincere and down-to-earth, bringing warmth, genuineness, and inclusivity into our therapy sessions together. I believe that therapy is a team effort where your needs and goals are what matter most. Clients like you can feel comfortable knowing I'm here to help you with compassion, creating a space where you can truly be yourself. I work with children, teens, adults, couples, and families. ¡Hablo español!
I have worked in community mental health, where I've supported clients grappling with bipolar disorder, addiction, substance abuse, and chronic mental health issues.
What's holding you back from starting your journey towards a brighter, more fulfilling life? I'm all about embracing authenticity and diving into your experiences and future aspirations. My approach is sincere and down-to-earth, bringing warmth, genuineness, and inclusivity into our therapy sessions together. I believe that therapy is a team effort where your needs and goals are what matter most. Clients like you can feel comfortable knowing I'm here to help you with compassion, creating a space where you can truly be yourself. I work with children, teens, adults, couples, and families. ¡Hablo español!
(310) 907-9456 View (310) 907-9456
Photo of Chris Marrero, PsyD, Psychologist
Chris Marrero
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025
Hello. Thanks for visiting my page. I am the founder of Marrero Psychology, Santa Monica's premier holistic mental healthcare clinic specializing in addressing the needs of professionals and students. My areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder. My clients experience relief from symptoms in addition to higher self-esteem, better sleep, stronger relationships, greater focus, and more satisfaction at work or school. I am passionate about helping people reach their goals and bring greater happiness and mental health into their lives.
Hello. Thanks for visiting my page. I am the founder of Marrero Psychology, Santa Monica's premier holistic mental healthcare clinic specializing in addressing the needs of professionals and students. My areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder. My clients experience relief from symptoms in addition to higher self-esteem, better sleep, stronger relationships, greater focus, and more satisfaction at work or school. I am passionate about helping people reach their goals and bring greater happiness and mental health into their lives.
(424) 375-6014 View (424) 375-6014
Photo of Katja D Pohl, PsyD, Psychologist
Katja D Pohl
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
West Los Angeles, CA 90025
My expertise include trauma, chronic illness/pain, bipolar disorder, addiction, and relationship problems.
Life can be hard and at times we need help. Through mutual collaboration we will get to know you, where you get stuck, your relationships, and how to create lasting and meaningful change in your life. Positive change through therapy can provide you with more stability, greater self-confidence, more compassion for yourself and others, increased satisfaction with your life, improved relationships, a feeling of satisfaction and ease about daily life, and the ability to take risks and advance professionally.
My expertise include trauma, chronic illness/pain, bipolar disorder, addiction, and relationship problems.
Life can be hard and at times we need help. Through mutual collaboration we will get to know you, where you get stuck, your relationships, and how to create lasting and meaningful change in your life. Positive change through therapy can provide you with more stability, greater self-confidence, more compassion for yourself and others, increased satisfaction with your life, improved relationships, a feeling of satisfaction and ease about daily life, and the ability to take risks and advance professionally.
(424) 230-8665 View (424) 230-8665
Photo of Nicole Whitmore, AMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Nicole Whitmore
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90035
My area of expertise includes treating various mental health conditions such as trauma, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, substance use disorders.
Are racing thoughts keeping you up night? Tired of ER visits from panic attacks? Struggling to focus or pay attention? Feeling overwhelmed in crowds? Overall lack of motivation or energy? Do your emotions feel like a rollercoaster? Spending more time on hold or waitlists instead of getting the card you need? Take the first step and Book a consultation today - leave the rest up to us! Every client gets a personal concierge and other exclusive benefits. Schedule to learn more. All inclusive mental health and primary care. Appointments available 7 days per week for returning clients. Every client gets a personal concierge.
My area of expertise includes treating various mental health conditions such as trauma, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, substance use disorders.
Are racing thoughts keeping you up night? Tired of ER visits from panic attacks? Struggling to focus or pay attention? Feeling overwhelmed in crowds? Overall lack of motivation or energy? Do your emotions feel like a rollercoaster? Spending more time on hold or waitlists instead of getting the card you need? Take the first step and Book a consultation today - leave the rest up to us! Every client gets a personal concierge and other exclusive benefits. Schedule to learn more. All inclusive mental health and primary care. Appointments available 7 days per week for returning clients. Every client gets a personal concierge.
(949) 749-7625 View (949) 749-7625
Photo of Dean Moses - Spearhead Health, CADC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Spearhead Health
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CADC
Verified Verified
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
Regardless of the circumstances, my ideal participant is one who has any amount of motivation and hope that things can be different in their life. I struggled for many years with a substance abuse disorder (specifically opiates among many other substances) that caused wreckage in my life on so many levels. I can empathize with the human that is using and does not know how to stop. I believe in your power, your resilience, and your spirit. I have helped people with complex mental health issues that include bipolar with psychotic features, depression, anxiety, and a range of substance use disorders & addiction.
Regardless of the circumstances, my ideal participant is one who has any amount of motivation and hope that things can be different in their life. I struggled for many years with a substance abuse disorder (specifically opiates among many other substances) that caused wreckage in my life on so many levels. I can empathize with the human that is using and does not know how to stop. I believe in your power, your resilience, and your spirit. I have helped people with complex mental health issues that include bipolar with psychotic features, depression, anxiety, and a range of substance use disorders & addiction.
(469) 489-3775 View (469) 489-3775

See more therapy options for Century 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.