Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Culver City, CA

Photo of Flora Harris, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Flora Harris
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Online Only
My passion is to help adults, couples and teens resolve troubling thoughts that lead to challenging feelings like fear, anxiety and guilt, as these are the emotions that negatively impact how people live their lives. I create a supportive environment where clients feel safe and free to express the worries, fears and barriers that have interfered with achieving life's goals. My focus is to help clients improve self-esteem, strengthen relational bonds, as well as improve emotional self-control and listening skills. Using a collaborative approach, I assist clients with resolving unhealthy family and social relationships.
My passion is to help adults, couples and teens resolve troubling thoughts that lead to challenging feelings like fear, anxiety and guilt, as these are the emotions that negatively impact how people live their lives. I create a supportive environment where clients feel safe and free to express the worries, fears and barriers that have interfered with achieving life's goals. My focus is to help clients improve self-esteem, strengthen relational bonds, as well as improve emotional self-control and listening skills. Using a collaborative approach, I assist clients with resolving unhealthy family and social relationships.
(323) 784-0153 View (323) 784-0153
Photo of Darrin M Dennis, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA
Darrin M Dennis
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA
4 Endorsed
Culver City, CA 90232
Hi! My name is Darrin Dennis. I am a licensed professional clinical counselor with more than 6 years of professional experience. People seek therapy because they're experiencing some kind of pain they can no longer manage on their own. As a therapist, I come alongside my clients, building a personal and authentic relationship so I can walk with you through your first steps toward growth and onto understanding, facing, then managing and healing from that pain. I am a firm believer in the power of transformation, inwardly and outwardly, and believe this is the key to living one’s life to the greatest and fullest potential possible.
Hi! My name is Darrin Dennis. I am a licensed professional clinical counselor with more than 6 years of professional experience. People seek therapy because they're experiencing some kind of pain they can no longer manage on their own. As a therapist, I come alongside my clients, building a personal and authentic relationship so I can walk with you through your first steps toward growth and onto understanding, facing, then managing and healing from that pain. I am a firm believer in the power of transformation, inwardly and outwardly, and believe this is the key to living one’s life to the greatest and fullest potential possible.
(424) 373-4172 View (424) 373-4172
Photo of Adriana Eversole, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Adriana Eversole
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Culver City, CA 90230
I treat a broad range of disorders including anxiety, depression, bipolar, behavioral concerns, and others.
In times of struggle or uncertainty, having the support and trust in someone you can talk to is an invaluable experience. In my practice, I aim to help clients identify and break free from their limiting beliefs and unhealthy patterns so they can live an authentic and fulfilling life. My experience as a licensed psychotherapist has led me to understand the value of mutual trust and a collaborative, client-centered approach. I provide a compassionate and empathetic atmosphere where we will work together to form a unique treatment plan to address your specific goals in coming to therapy.
I treat a broad range of disorders including anxiety, depression, bipolar, behavioral concerns, and others.
In times of struggle or uncertainty, having the support and trust in someone you can talk to is an invaluable experience. In my practice, I aim to help clients identify and break free from their limiting beliefs and unhealthy patterns so they can live an authentic and fulfilling life. My experience as a licensed psychotherapist has led me to understand the value of mutual trust and a collaborative, client-centered approach. I provide a compassionate and empathetic atmosphere where we will work together to form a unique treatment plan to address your specific goals in coming to therapy.
(424) 232-0942 View (424) 232-0942
Photo of Jeff Rogers, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Jeff Rogers
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
I have over 17 years of experience working in the field specifically with first responders and the military. I prefer a Strength-Based approach incorporating Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution-Focused brief therapy. I am straightforward with clients, while also being understanding in order to challenge them to achieve their goals. I believe in the holistic approach of treating the whole person and often refer clients to help improve other areas of their life.
I have over 17 years of experience working in the field specifically with first responders and the military. I prefer a Strength-Based approach incorporating Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution-Focused brief therapy. I am straightforward with clients, while also being understanding in order to challenge them to achieve their goals. I believe in the holistic approach of treating the whole person and often refer clients to help improve other areas of their life.
(424) 373-5479 View (424) 373-5479
Photo of Ashley Scalise, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Ashley Scalise
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Serves Area
Ready to rise beyond your struggles and embrace a brighter future? Are you feeling overwhelmed by emotions, relationships, or past experiences and you're unsure where to even begin? Are you looking for a compassionate ally to assist you through the curveballs that life has thrown at you? I specialize in supporting teens, young adults, and individuals who have been told they're “too much” or have felt misunderstood for far too long. Whether it's emotional regulation skills, building a stronger sense of self, or creating more stability in your relationships, that is what I am here for.
Ready to rise beyond your struggles and embrace a brighter future? Are you feeling overwhelmed by emotions, relationships, or past experiences and you're unsure where to even begin? Are you looking for a compassionate ally to assist you through the curveballs that life has thrown at you? I specialize in supporting teens, young adults, and individuals who have been told they're “too much” or have felt misunderstood for far too long. Whether it's emotional regulation skills, building a stronger sense of self, or creating more stability in your relationships, that is what I am here for.
(310) 564-7343 View (310) 564-7343
Photo of Jeanne Young - Jeanne Young, PhD, Psychologist, PhD, RN
Jeanne Young, PhD
Psychologist, PhD, RN
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
Are you struggling with feelings of hopelessness, fatigue, low energy, moodiness or loneliness? These can be symptoms of depression. Sometimes depression triggers feeling out of control with eating, alcohol or compulsive spending. Are you trying to improve your relationships with loved ones? I have been helping people improve their inner life and relationships for over 20 years.
Are you struggling with feelings of hopelessness, fatigue, low energy, moodiness or loneliness? These can be symptoms of depression. Sometimes depression triggers feeling out of control with eating, alcohol or compulsive spending. Are you trying to improve your relationships with loved ones? I have been helping people improve their inner life and relationships for over 20 years.
(424) 571-9489 View (424) 571-9489
Photo of Ken Seman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, SAP
Ken Seman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, SAP
Culver City, CA 90230
It is my experience after practicing over 24 years that it is not so much what you think that is important rather it is how you feel. We are motivated by our feelings. A thought is usually not sufficient to initiate lasting change unless it is connected to a feeling. Psychotherapy is usually sought when the individual is in crisis and feels overwhelmed. When an individual is overwhelmed it is like being overloaded with more hurt then can be lived with. The therapist is a catalyst to help the individual integrate their feelings and thoughts and to live in the present.
It is my experience after practicing over 24 years that it is not so much what you think that is important rather it is how you feel. We are motivated by our feelings. A thought is usually not sufficient to initiate lasting change unless it is connected to a feeling. Psychotherapy is usually sought when the individual is in crisis and feels overwhelmed. When an individual is overwhelmed it is like being overloaded with more hurt then can be lived with. The therapist is a catalyst to help the individual integrate their feelings and thoughts and to live in the present.
(424) 345-1381 View (424) 345-1381
Photo of Alonso J. Dominguez, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Alonso J. Dominguez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
9 Endorsed
Culver City, CA 90232
Increased life stressors are pushing us to reach out for support and care. I offer a safe space to process transitions. I come with a three decades of experience providing direct therapeutic care to diverse populations. As we process and develop skills, together we will build strength, resilience, and new meaning. I approach therapy from an existential len incorporating both depth and somatic practices including Brainspotting and grief work. As a person of color I offer understanding of varied cultural dynamics. I work primarily with adults navigating changes, loss, and new perspectives.
Increased life stressors are pushing us to reach out for support and care. I offer a safe space to process transitions. I come with a three decades of experience providing direct therapeutic care to diverse populations. As we process and develop skills, together we will build strength, resilience, and new meaning. I approach therapy from an existential len incorporating both depth and somatic practices including Brainspotting and grief work. As a person of color I offer understanding of varied cultural dynamics. I work primarily with adults navigating changes, loss, and new perspectives.
(424) 294-8898 View (424) 294-8898
Photo of Teresita Berndes-Carlson - Access Healing Counseling and Associates
) / Addictions/ ADHD / ADD/ Adolescents/ Adoption Issues/ Adult Children Of Alcoholics/ Adults/ Aging/ Senior issues/ Anger Management/ Anxiety Disorders Art/ Therapy Asperger / Bipolar Disorder/ Career Transition/ Childhood Abuse/ Children/ Christian Counseling/ Chronic Illness/ Chronic Pain/ Co-Dependency Issues/ Cognitive Behavioral Therapy/ Couples/ Crisis Intervention/ Depression/ Domestic Violence/ Eating Disorders/ EMDR/ Family Therapy/ Farsi/ Gay / Lesbian Issues / Gender Identity /Grief / Loss Group Therapy /Homeopathic Medicine/ Hungarian/ Learning Differences/ Life Transitions Marital / Couples Therapy /Memory Loss/ Men's Issues/ Minority / Cultural Issues/Mood Disorders /OCD/Obsessive Compulsive Disorder /Panic Disorders/Parenting Issues Performance Anxiety/ Phobias/ Play Therapy /Polish /Post Traumatic Stress Disorder// PTSD Post-Partum Depression/ Premarital Counseling/ Psychiatry/ Psychodynamic Psychotherapy Relationship Difficulties/ Separation and Divorce /Spanish /Spiritual/Religious Issues/ Stress Management /Substance Abuse/ Terminal Illness/ Transitional Stress /Trauma /Veterans Women's Issues/ Workplace Stress / EAP
We are a group practice Network offering video and in person app Our vision is to connect you to a network of some of the most talented, highly qualified and compassionate professionals in the mental health field, each with a broad range of skills and unique personal style. Our therapists and psychiatrists are uniquely equipped to work with individuals, children, adolescents, couples and families. They will help you access the keys to your emotional/psychological healing, wholeness and sense of well being. Once you are connected with a therapist, all communication with them will be handled via their individual voice-mail or email.
) / Addictions/ ADHD / ADD/ Adolescents/ Adoption Issues/ Adult Children Of Alcoholics/ Adults/ Aging/ Senior issues/ Anger Management/ Anxiety Disorders Art/ Therapy Asperger / Bipolar Disorder/ Career Transition/ Childhood Abuse/ Children/ Christian Counseling/ Chronic Illness/ Chronic Pain/ Co-Dependency Issues/ Cognitive Behavioral Therapy/ Couples/ Crisis Intervention/ Depression/ Domestic Violence/ Eating Disorders/ EMDR/ Family Therapy/ Farsi/ Gay / Lesbian Issues / Gender Identity /Grief / Loss Group Therapy /Homeopathic Medicine/ Hungarian/ Learning Differences/ Life Transitions Marital / Couples Therapy /Memory Loss/ Men's Issues/ Minority / Cultural Issues/Mood Disorders /OCD/Obsessive Compulsive Disorder /Panic Disorders/Parenting Issues Performance Anxiety/ Phobias/ Play Therapy /Polish /Post Traumatic Stress Disorder// PTSD Post-Partum Depression/ Premarital Counseling/ Psychiatry/ Psychodynamic Psychotherapy Relationship Difficulties/ Separation and Divorce /Spanish /Spiritual/Religious Issues/ Stress Management /Substance Abuse/ Terminal Illness/ Transitional Stress /Trauma /Veterans Women's Issues/ Workplace Stress / EAP
We are a group practice Network offering video and in person app Our vision is to connect you to a network of some of the most talented, highly qualified and compassionate professionals in the mental health field, each with a broad range of skills and unique personal style. Our therapists and psychiatrists are uniquely equipped to work with individuals, children, adolescents, couples and families. They will help you access the keys to your emotional/psychological healing, wholeness and sense of well being. Once you are connected with a therapist, all communication with them will be handled via their individual voice-mail or email.
(888) 851-5595 View (888) 851-5595
Photo of Alicia Brandt, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Alicia Brandt
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
6 Endorsed
Culver City, CA 90066
21st century therapy is less "what is wrong with you" and more "what has happened to you"? Are you feeling stuck? Is your relationship stagnant or in crisis? Are you the adult child of a narcissist? Are you the parent of an adult child with a serious mental illness or an adult child in addiction or recovery ? Are you having issues with career burnout? Are you ready for change?
21st century therapy is less "what is wrong with you" and more "what has happened to you"? Are you feeling stuck? Is your relationship stagnant or in crisis? Are you the adult child of a narcissist? Are you the parent of an adult child with a serious mental illness or an adult child in addiction or recovery ? Are you having issues with career burnout? Are you ready for change?
(323) 870-8228 View (323) 870-8228
Photo of Colleen Mielke, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Colleen Mielke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Colleen Mielke, Licensed Clinical Social Worker. My approach to therapy depends on your situation and needs. In general, I would begin with attentive listening or empathy immersion before beginning our approach to your therapeutic needs. Usually, this approach begins with a psychodynamic approach and leads to a CBT approach to help you create the desired change you are looking for. Psychosocial, anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress, obsessive-compulsive, substance abuse, dual-diagnosis, and psychotic disorders. CBT (Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy. Psychodynamic Psychotherapy and Existential Processing.
Colleen Mielke, Licensed Clinical Social Worker. My approach to therapy depends on your situation and needs. In general, I would begin with attentive listening or empathy immersion before beginning our approach to your therapeutic needs. Usually, this approach begins with a psychodynamic approach and leads to a CBT approach to help you create the desired change you are looking for. Psychosocial, anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress, obsessive-compulsive, substance abuse, dual-diagnosis, and psychotic disorders. CBT (Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy. Psychodynamic Psychotherapy and Existential Processing.
(562) 270-6948 View (562) 270-6948
Photo of Maegan Casanova - Brain RX
Brain RX
Verified Verified
Culver City, CA 90232
Brain RX was created to help people clear their head of unwanted, unhelpful, stuck mental patterns and start living a life of direction, purposefulness and hope. Microcurrent Direct Neurofeedback is a quick, passive, painless, safe and effective treatment that helps reset the brain a neurological level. This FDA-cleared treatment is a holistic, drug-free approach to combatting a number of symptoms and disorders. RE-TRAIN. CHANGE. RE-ORGANIZE.
Brain RX was created to help people clear their head of unwanted, unhelpful, stuck mental patterns and start living a life of direction, purposefulness and hope. Microcurrent Direct Neurofeedback is a quick, passive, painless, safe and effective treatment that helps reset the brain a neurological level. This FDA-cleared treatment is a holistic, drug-free approach to combatting a number of symptoms and disorders. RE-TRAIN. CHANGE. RE-ORGANIZE.
(858) 281-0740 View (858) 281-0740
Photo of Michelle Soto, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Michelle Soto
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
Whatever you’re going through, I am here to support your journey. I am experienced and qualified to provide psychotherapy to individuals for issues varying from: depression, anxiety, grief/loss, trauma, low self-esteem, suicide ideation, to life stressors and more. You deserve to heal, grow, and live the life you’re capable of.
Whatever you’re going through, I am here to support your journey. I am experienced and qualified to provide psychotherapy to individuals for issues varying from: depression, anxiety, grief/loss, trauma, low self-esteem, suicide ideation, to life stressors and more. You deserve to heal, grow, and live the life you’re capable of.
(909) 497-1620 View (909) 497-1620
Photo of Alexandra Rudd-Barnard, Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Alexandra Rudd-Barnard
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
2 Endorsed
Culver City, CA 90230
I believe everyone can obtain mental stability and peak performance even during life transitions and crisis situations. At One Neuro our clinicians provide therapy, tailored evaluations, mindfulness, and neurofeedback, treatment for children and adults who experience low achievement, attentional challenges, learning difficulties, and developmental disorders. We also work with individuals who have complex medical conditions (e.g., tics, concussion, migraines, epilepsy, chronic pain, sleep difficulty, cancer, TBI, genetic conditions) that may be impacting their adaptive functioning.
I believe everyone can obtain mental stability and peak performance even during life transitions and crisis situations. At One Neuro our clinicians provide therapy, tailored evaluations, mindfulness, and neurofeedback, treatment for children and adults who experience low achievement, attentional challenges, learning difficulties, and developmental disorders. We also work with individuals who have complex medical conditions (e.g., tics, concussion, migraines, epilepsy, chronic pain, sleep difficulty, cancer, TBI, genetic conditions) that may be impacting their adaptive functioning.
(424) 361-0415 x1 View (424) 361-0415 x1
Photo of Nicole Pascavis, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, APCC
Nicole Pascavis
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, APCC
1 Endorsed
Culver City, CA 90230
I work with high-achieving leaders and creatives looking for meaning, direction, purpose, and efficacy, particularly around late-20s to mid-40s life milestones in work, relationships, and personal and creative expression. Together we will explore and confront the limiting beliefs, inner critic, and relational and communication challenges that keep you feeling stagnant and stuck, while nurturing your personal authority and self-expression. Other areas of exploration often include: emotional literacy and regulation, self-advocacy in work and relationships, intentional lifestyle design, core beliefs and values, and personal history.
I work with high-achieving leaders and creatives looking for meaning, direction, purpose, and efficacy, particularly around late-20s to mid-40s life milestones in work, relationships, and personal and creative expression. Together we will explore and confront the limiting beliefs, inner critic, and relational and communication challenges that keep you feeling stagnant and stuck, while nurturing your personal authority and self-expression. Other areas of exploration often include: emotional literacy and regulation, self-advocacy in work and relationships, intentional lifestyle design, core beliefs and values, and personal history.
(323) 210-3760 View (323) 210-3760
Photo of Samantha S Agricola, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Samantha S Agricola
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Culver City, CA 90232
My ideal clients are adults, teens, couples or families who want to grow. Your growth, whether it seems small or big is something that I excel in helping develop, particularly in those of you who feel stuck. Maybe you are feeling alone, unhappy or anxious and do not understand why. Perhaps you have considered meeting with a therapist but that which is unknown is scary for you. I am here to meet you in your totality and try to help you move through the difficulties you are facing.
My ideal clients are adults, teens, couples or families who want to grow. Your growth, whether it seems small or big is something that I excel in helping develop, particularly in those of you who feel stuck. Maybe you are feeling alone, unhappy or anxious and do not understand why. Perhaps you have considered meeting with a therapist but that which is unknown is scary for you. I am here to meet you in your totality and try to help you move through the difficulties you are facing.
(424) 667-2398 View (424) 667-2398
Photo of Gerardo Parra, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Gerardo Parra
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
I have worked with people suffering from depression, anxiety, trauma, sexual abuse, domestic violence, bipolar disorder, ADHD, PTSD, grief and loss, marital/couple problems, drug addiction, compulsive behaviors, and family dynamics.
Hi my name is Gerardo G. Parra. I go by Dr. Parra. I'm bilingual, if the client prefers to speak in Spanish, I am very comfortable providing services in that language. Additionally, as I am bicultural I use colloquial phrases and idioms when appropriate. My approach is to help clients with whatever challenges they are facing. I consider myself an eclectic therapist as I use any modality that will help my client. I have been in practice for 24 years and found that no client responds the same to a specific therapeutic approach.
I have worked with people suffering from depression, anxiety, trauma, sexual abuse, domestic violence, bipolar disorder, ADHD, PTSD, grief and loss, marital/couple problems, drug addiction, compulsive behaviors, and family dynamics.
Hi my name is Gerardo G. Parra. I go by Dr. Parra. I'm bilingual, if the client prefers to speak in Spanish, I am very comfortable providing services in that language. Additionally, as I am bicultural I use colloquial phrases and idioms when appropriate. My approach is to help clients with whatever challenges they are facing. I consider myself an eclectic therapist as I use any modality that will help my client. I have been in practice for 24 years and found that no client responds the same to a specific therapeutic approach.
(619) 853-0177 View (619) 853-0177
Photo of Jamilla Lightner-Cedeno, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Jamilla Lightner-Cedeno
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Culver City, CA 90232
Jamilla Lightner is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California who has been practicing since 2024. Jamilla helps clients by offering a safe space that is non-judgmental, empathic, by using active listening, and allowing the client self-determination. Outside of work, Jamilla enjoys hiking, yoga, meditation, reading, writing, and travel.
Jamilla Lightner is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California who has been practicing since 2024. Jamilla helps clients by offering a safe space that is non-judgmental, empathic, by using active listening, and allowing the client self-determination. Outside of work, Jamilla enjoys hiking, yoga, meditation, reading, writing, and travel.
(310) 361-8024 View (310) 361-8024
Photo of Irene Munoz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Irene Munoz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Irene Munoz, LCSW My goal is to help you develop into the healthiest and happiest version of yourself. I do this by creating a safe and non-judgmental environment where you are able to process life! I utilize several therapeutic modalities ranging from; interpersonal psychotherapy, crisis oriented therapy, client centered, solution focused, motivational interviewing, strengths based and cognitive behavioral therapy. I have experience in community based mental health. Most often working with adolescents and adults.
Irene Munoz, LCSW My goal is to help you develop into the healthiest and happiest version of yourself. I do this by creating a safe and non-judgmental environment where you are able to process life! I utilize several therapeutic modalities ranging from; interpersonal psychotherapy, crisis oriented therapy, client centered, solution focused, motivational interviewing, strengths based and cognitive behavioral therapy. I have experience in community based mental health. Most often working with adolescents and adults.
(310) 455-8799 View (310) 455-8799
Photo of Alexander Emile Marshi, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Alexander Emile Marshi
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
1 Endorsed
Online Only
You have goals; let’s accomplish them. Whether those objectives require targeted optimizations or a total transformation, I specialize in helping men navigate the unique challenges we face. I utilize evidence-based, solution-focused protocols to help you maximize efficiency by overcoming psychological impediments preventing you from reaching your full potential in your personal and professional lives.
You have goals; let’s accomplish them. Whether those objectives require targeted optimizations or a total transformation, I specialize in helping men navigate the unique challenges we face. I utilize evidence-based, solution-focused protocols to help you maximize efficiency by overcoming psychological impediments preventing you from reaching your full potential in your personal and professional lives.
(323) 880-2622 View (323) 880-2622

See more therapy options for Culver 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.