Bipolar Disorder Therapists in San Diego, CA

Photo of Irwin Ford Rosenfarb, Psychologist in San Diego, CA
Irwin Ford Rosenfarb
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92131
Hello and welcome. I offer psychotherapy for adults, couples, families, and teens dealing with relationship difficulties, depression and anxiety, bipolar disorder, personality issues, schizophrenia, and other mental health problems. I also help family members understand their loved one's difficulties and help couples and families communicate more effectively. I believe that change occurs within the context of a positive therapeutic relationship and my focus is on creating a caring, compassionate, and sensitive space where individuals, couples, and families can make significant change in their lives.
Hello and welcome. I offer psychotherapy for adults, couples, families, and teens dealing with relationship difficulties, depression and anxiety, bipolar disorder, personality issues, schizophrenia, and other mental health problems. I also help family members understand their loved one's difficulties and help couples and families communicate more effectively. I believe that change occurs within the context of a positive therapeutic relationship and my focus is on creating a caring, compassionate, and sensitive space where individuals, couples, and families can make significant change in their lives.
(858) 943-4693 View (858) 943-4693
Photo of Emily Pecaitis in San Diego, CA
Emily Pecaitis
PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92122
I am a licensed and board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). In my practice, I treat both adults and children for depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and a wide range of other mental health conditions. My nursing background includes 15 years in the pre-hospital and emergency medicine setting, with ten of those years at a Level 1 Trauma Center, and 7 as a medevac flight nurse.
I am a licensed and board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). In my practice, I treat both adults and children for depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and a wide range of other mental health conditions. My nursing background includes 15 years in the pre-hospital and emergency medicine setting, with ten of those years at a Level 1 Trauma Center, and 7 as a medevac flight nurse.
(858) 264-0566 View (858) 264-0566
Photo of Susie VanDyke, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Susie VanDyke
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92123
I also have significant experience working with Bipolar.
Hello, I am Susie VanDyke, and I love working with PTSD, trauma, alcohol use, and substance use issues. I especially enjoy working with veterans, first responders, their families, and anyone going through difficult times. I graduated with a Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy in 2008 and have over fifteen years of experience in various mental health and hospital settings, with a concentration in military and first responders. I love helping people improve their lives and want them to feel better as quickly as possible. I enjoy helping people who are feeling hopeless about their situations because of tough circumstances.
I also have significant experience working with Bipolar.
Hello, I am Susie VanDyke, and I love working with PTSD, trauma, alcohol use, and substance use issues. I especially enjoy working with veterans, first responders, their families, and anyone going through difficult times. I graduated with a Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy in 2008 and have over fifteen years of experience in various mental health and hospital settings, with a concentration in military and first responders. I love helping people improve their lives and want them to feel better as quickly as possible. I enjoy helping people who are feeling hopeless about their situations because of tough circumstances.
(858) 758-3597 View (858) 758-3597
Photo of Lenny Hughley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Diego, CA
Lenny Hughley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92126
I have experience with persons that suffer from addiction, anger, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorders, career counseling depression, and racial trauma.
Hi, my name is Lenny Hughley, California license 112845. I like to create a space that is warm and nonjudgmental where individuals can freely talk about whatever they choose. My specialties include depression, anxiety, and stress management. Through therapy, I learned how to manage depression, anger, anxiety, and overcome low self-esteem. Through my practice I find it rewarding to help clients do the same.
I have experience with persons that suffer from addiction, anger, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorders, career counseling depression, and racial trauma.
Hi, my name is Lenny Hughley, California license 112845. I like to create a space that is warm and nonjudgmental where individuals can freely talk about whatever they choose. My specialties include depression, anxiety, and stress management. Through therapy, I learned how to manage depression, anger, anxiety, and overcome low self-esteem. Through my practice I find it rewarding to help clients do the same.
(760) 527-2253 View (760) 527-2253
Photo of Lynda Paulson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Diego, CA
Lynda Paulson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108
I treat anxiety, depression, bipolar/mood disorders, addictions, PTSD and complex trauma, adjustment disorders, obsessive/compulsive behaviors and grief and loss issues.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 13 years experience in direct practice. I received my Masters in Social Work from Long Beach State University in 2008. Since then I have worked with clients across the lifespan (ages 5 to 85) in a variety of clinical and medical settings. Throughout my practice I have focused on the importance of identifying all aspects of my clients’ lives that impact their well-being (support systems, cultural, work/ school environment, physical health, faith/spirituality) to provide treatment through a wholistic person-in-environment perspective.
I treat anxiety, depression, bipolar/mood disorders, addictions, PTSD and complex trauma, adjustment disorders, obsessive/compulsive behaviors and grief and loss issues.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 13 years experience in direct practice. I received my Masters in Social Work from Long Beach State University in 2008. Since then I have worked with clients across the lifespan (ages 5 to 85) in a variety of clinical and medical settings. Throughout my practice I have focused on the importance of identifying all aspects of my clients’ lives that impact their well-being (support systems, cultural, work/ school environment, physical health, faith/spirituality) to provide treatment through a wholistic person-in-environment perspective.
(619) 558-0740 View (619) 558-0740
Photo of Lizeth V Ma, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Lizeth V Ma
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92120
I am a passionate clinical therapist who loves working with children, women, couples and families going through challenging times. Are you and your your child having trouble communicating? Are you and your spouse having trouble communicating? Do you see them going through a hard time, long to help but don't know how? Do you suffer from Bipolar Disorder? I am here for you. Do you feel undone by anxiety or depression and don't know how to "shake it off"? Please call today, My number one goal is to help in the most comfortable and holistic approach possible. It's OK, not to be OK. Together we can get there, one step at a time.
I am a passionate clinical therapist who loves working with children, women, couples and families going through challenging times. Are you and your your child having trouble communicating? Are you and your spouse having trouble communicating? Do you see them going through a hard time, long to help but don't know how? Do you suffer from Bipolar Disorder? I am here for you. Do you feel undone by anxiety or depression and don't know how to "shake it off"? Please call today, My number one goal is to help in the most comfortable and holistic approach possible. It's OK, not to be OK. Together we can get there, one step at a time.
(858) 433-4356 View (858) 433-4356
Photo of Dr. Kimberly Madakasira, Licensed Professional Counselor in San Diego, CA
Dr. Kimberly Madakasira
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, LPCC, C-IYT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92101  (Online Only)
I am a licensed professional counselor, Health Psychologist and an International Certified Yoga Therapist. I have been a licensed professional counselor since 2000 with experience treating adults utilizing various techniques and therapies in both group and individual settings. I provide CBT, Mindfulness, Yoga Therapy, etc. which have been shown to be beneficial for depression, anxiety, bipolar, trauma, eating disorders among other issues. I obtained my PhD in Health Psychology from Walden University where I studied somatic issues. My areas of interest include mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and health issues.
I am a licensed professional counselor, Health Psychologist and an International Certified Yoga Therapist. I have been a licensed professional counselor since 2000 with experience treating adults utilizing various techniques and therapies in both group and individual settings. I provide CBT, Mindfulness, Yoga Therapy, etc. which have been shown to be beneficial for depression, anxiety, bipolar, trauma, eating disorders among other issues. I obtained my PhD in Health Psychology from Walden University where I studied somatic issues. My areas of interest include mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and health issues.
(769) 500-1371 View (769) 500-1371
Photo of Brandon Schroeder, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Diego, CA
Brandon Schroeder
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92132  (Online Only)
Hi! My name is Brandon Schroeder and I have over 10 years of experience in the public and private mental health sectors. I obtained my undergraduate degree in Psychology from San Jose State University and then crossed the continent to study clinical Social Work at Boston University. I have a wide range of experience in treating various mental health diagnoses, however I take particular interest in working with those diagnosed with Personality and Bipolar Disorders.
Hi! My name is Brandon Schroeder and I have over 10 years of experience in the public and private mental health sectors. I obtained my undergraduate degree in Psychology from San Jose State University and then crossed the continent to study clinical Social Work at Boston University. I have a wide range of experience in treating various mental health diagnoses, however I take particular interest in working with those diagnosed with Personality and Bipolar Disorders.
(909) 245-6586 View (909) 245-6586
Photo of Melody Donboli, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Melody Donboli
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92128
Some of my specialties include early psychosis support & psychoedcation for caregivers of family members with psychosis or bipolar, LGBTQQI support & advocacy.
My goal is to help you uncover your true potential and find more helpful ways of living. I offer a collaborative and client-centered approach tailored to each of my clients individual needs and cultural backgrounds to help attain the personal growth you're striving for. Your life experiences and history contribute to your individual uniqueness. Sometimes it's helpful if your therapist has a base knowledge of aspects of your culture so you don't have to explain everything. Between cultural elements of the LGBTQ community, to intersectionality experiences for persons of color, my background and training aid in this understanding.
Some of my specialties include early psychosis support & psychoedcation for caregivers of family members with psychosis or bipolar, LGBTQQI support & advocacy.
My goal is to help you uncover your true potential and find more helpful ways of living. I offer a collaborative and client-centered approach tailored to each of my clients individual needs and cultural backgrounds to help attain the personal growth you're striving for. Your life experiences and history contribute to your individual uniqueness. Sometimes it's helpful if your therapist has a base knowledge of aspects of your culture so you don't have to explain everything. Between cultural elements of the LGBTQ community, to intersectionality experiences for persons of color, my background and training aid in this understanding.
(858) 376-7580 View (858) 376-7580
Photo of Brittany Phillips Hunt, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in San Diego, CA
Brittany Phillips Hunt
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108  (Online Only)
From symptoms of Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, self-worth, relational issues, family conflict, ADHD, Bipolar, grief and more, Brittany is happy to walk with clients through their journey to a better life.
Currently open for couples and individuals via telehealth
From symptoms of Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, self-worth, relational issues, family conflict, ADHD, Bipolar, grief and more, Brittany is happy to walk with clients through their journey to a better life.
Currently open for couples and individuals via telehealth
(619) 345-5992 View (619) 345-5992
Photo of Reina Remy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Diego, CA
Reina Remy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92123
Waitlist for new clients
I work collaboratively and creatively to help you/your child or teen identify the root causes underlying the current struggles and increase awareness of solutions in your lives. I use play/art techniques to explore thoughts and feelings, emphasize therapeutic experiments, and process traumas to help you/your child feel better and improve the quality of your lives. I have more than 20 years experience helping children, teens, adults, and parents with trauma, grief, anxiety, family conflicts, bipolar, ADHD, and depression, among other issues. I also love working with LGBTQ community, military families, twins, and parenting struggles.
I work collaboratively and creatively to help you/your child or teen identify the root causes underlying the current struggles and increase awareness of solutions in your lives. I use play/art techniques to explore thoughts and feelings, emphasize therapeutic experiments, and process traumas to help you/your child feel better and improve the quality of your lives. I have more than 20 years experience helping children, teens, adults, and parents with trauma, grief, anxiety, family conflicts, bipolar, ADHD, and depression, among other issues. I also love working with LGBTQ community, military families, twins, and parenting struggles.
(858) 215-1978 View (858) 215-1978
Photo of Alexander Gilburd, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Alexander Gilburd
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92131  (Online Only)
I also help people who are struggling with substance abuse, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, PTSD, and schizophrenia.
I believe in people’s innate ability to persevere and evolve through their struggles. Everyone has an innate potential to achieve their goals if given the proper nourishment and environment. As a therapist, I strive to provide that environment. I help patients find their path towards their own peace of mind. I foster a trusting and caring relationship with my patients, focusing on the unique and fascinating experiences that every individual brings to the table.
I also help people who are struggling with substance abuse, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, PTSD, and schizophrenia.
I believe in people’s innate ability to persevere and evolve through their struggles. Everyone has an innate potential to achieve their goals if given the proper nourishment and environment. As a therapist, I strive to provide that environment. I help patients find their path towards their own peace of mind. I foster a trusting and caring relationship with my patients, focusing on the unique and fascinating experiences that every individual brings to the table.
(858) 935-4859 View (858) 935-4859
Photo of Michelle Fulks, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Michelle Fulks
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92111
Welcoming new clients! With a focus on clients struggling with anxiety, depression, substance abuse, dual diagnosis and mental health issues including psychotic features associated with bipolar and schizophrenia. I have been licensed over 20 years as an LMFT and most recently working with the chronically mentally ill. I have a desire to help alleviate the pain you are experiencing and provide support and most of all HOPE and relief. Through a whole person and mindful approach, I aim to help you find the solution to what is happening in your life now.
Welcoming new clients! With a focus on clients struggling with anxiety, depression, substance abuse, dual diagnosis and mental health issues including psychotic features associated with bipolar and schizophrenia. I have been licensed over 20 years as an LMFT and most recently working with the chronically mentally ill. I have a desire to help alleviate the pain you are experiencing and provide support and most of all HOPE and relief. Through a whole person and mindful approach, I aim to help you find the solution to what is happening in your life now.
(858) 408-6951 View (858) 408-6951
Photo of Kristin Whelan, Psychologist in San Diego, CA
Kristin Whelan
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92123
Waitlist for new clients
Dr. Whelan is an experienced Licensed Clinical Psychologist who is passionate about establishing a strong alliance with her patients and providing excellence in care. She provides assessment, diagnosis, and treatment to patients with an array of psychological, neurological, and medical conditions. Dr. Whelan specializes in the treatment of depression and anxiety related disorders, chronic pain, sleep/eating disorders, substance use, grief, trauma, and bipolar spectrum conditions. She provides individualized, evidence-based psychotherapy involving a blend of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical-behavioral therapy (DBT),
Dr. Whelan is an experienced Licensed Clinical Psychologist who is passionate about establishing a strong alliance with her patients and providing excellence in care. She provides assessment, diagnosis, and treatment to patients with an array of psychological, neurological, and medical conditions. Dr. Whelan specializes in the treatment of depression and anxiety related disorders, chronic pain, sleep/eating disorders, substance use, grief, trauma, and bipolar spectrum conditions. She provides individualized, evidence-based psychotherapy involving a blend of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical-behavioral therapy (DBT),
(619) 738-2306 View (619) 738-2306
Photo of Tenee Brown, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in San Diego, CA
Tenee Brown
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92106  (Online Only)
I have over ten years of experience serving multiple populations all of which include, those of diverse backgrounds including, those who may be facing challenges such as depression, anxiety, substance abuse, Bipolar Disorder, trauma, racial trauma, domestic violence, dual diagnosis, and stress.
My main philosophy when providing care for clients is creating a safe space where the client can feel comfortable opening up and sharing which is an imperative aspect of the relationship-building phase of therapy. I have a relaxed conversational style which often helps with clients who may be apprehensive or nervous. I value my clients’ voices and view the therapeutic relationship as a partnership. We will work together to overcome obstacles and challenges and celebrate successes.
I have over ten years of experience serving multiple populations all of which include, those of diverse backgrounds including, those who may be facing challenges such as depression, anxiety, substance abuse, Bipolar Disorder, trauma, racial trauma, domestic violence, dual diagnosis, and stress.
My main philosophy when providing care for clients is creating a safe space where the client can feel comfortable opening up and sharing which is an imperative aspect of the relationship-building phase of therapy. I have a relaxed conversational style which often helps with clients who may be apprehensive or nervous. I value my clients’ voices and view the therapeutic relationship as a partnership. We will work together to overcome obstacles and challenges and celebrate successes.
(619) 832-0715 View (619) 832-0715
Photo of Sean O'Hara, Psychologist in San Diego, CA
Sean O'Hara
Psychologist, PsyD, NCAC, I, SAP
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92127
O'Hara treats depression, anxiety, ADHD, psychosis, Bipolar, PTSD.
Sean O'Hara Psy.D, NCAC I, SAP is a State of California and State of Hawai'i Board Licensed Psychologist in San Diego, California and Kahului, Hawai'i, with 33 years experience with psychiatric, mental health, dual-diagnosis and crises intervention health problems. Dr. O'Hara works in Rancho Bernardo and does tele heath sessions. Dr. O'Hara travels the United States to work with clients, corporations and athletes residing in other states. Dr. O'Hara works with all populations and does diversified work with corporations, collegiate and professional sports teams, the entertainment industries and concert tours.
O'Hara treats depression, anxiety, ADHD, psychosis, Bipolar, PTSD.
Sean O'Hara Psy.D, NCAC I, SAP is a State of California and State of Hawai'i Board Licensed Psychologist in San Diego, California and Kahului, Hawai'i, with 33 years experience with psychiatric, mental health, dual-diagnosis and crises intervention health problems. Dr. O'Hara works in Rancho Bernardo and does tele heath sessions. Dr. O'Hara travels the United States to work with clients, corporations and athletes residing in other states. Dr. O'Hara works with all populations and does diversified work with corporations, collegiate and professional sports teams, the entertainment industries and concert tours.
(619) 567-5255 View (619) 567-5255
Photo of Kathryn Anderson, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Kathryn Anderson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92128
My role is to help individuals and families experiencing challenges due to (or associated with) autism, bipolar, depression, ADHD, separation anxiety, school anxiety, and symptoms related to trauma.
Do you remember that children's song about going on a bear hunt? Can't go over it! Can't go under it! We've got to go through it! Life is full of situations that can leave us feeling much like this song. In working with individuals and families, including children (ages 4+) and adolescents, adults, and their caregivers, my hope is for you to find new solutions to the challenges you are facing every day. I may not be able to get you over it or under it, but I am here to help you through it.
My role is to help individuals and families experiencing challenges due to (or associated with) autism, bipolar, depression, ADHD, separation anxiety, school anxiety, and symptoms related to trauma.
Do you remember that children's song about going on a bear hunt? Can't go over it! Can't go under it! We've got to go through it! Life is full of situations that can leave us feeling much like this song. In working with individuals and families, including children (ages 4+) and adolescents, adults, and their caregivers, my hope is for you to find new solutions to the challenges you are facing every day. I may not be able to get you over it or under it, but I am here to help you through it.
(858) 736-9990 View (858) 736-9990
Photo of Philip Weck, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Diego, CA
Philip Weck
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92120
Philip is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW7719), practicing since 1972 and practicing in California since 1979. He has practiced in outpatient psychiatry at Scripps Clinic, Kaiser Permanente & PsyCare/LifeStance Health over the course of those years. He is experienced in the treatment of anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, relational problems, issues having to do with loss. He is experienced in dealing with patients with severe & complicated medical conditions.
Philip is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW7719), practicing since 1972 and practicing in California since 1979. He has practiced in outpatient psychiatry at Scripps Clinic, Kaiser Permanente & PsyCare/LifeStance Health over the course of those years. He is experienced in the treatment of anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, relational problems, issues having to do with loss. He is experienced in dealing with patients with severe & complicated medical conditions.
(858) 358-5059 View (858) 358-5059
Photo of Shani Judis Laub, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in San Diego, CA
Shani Judis Laub
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92130  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in addressing a spectrum of mental health concerns including: Anxiety ,Depression ,Psychosis , LGBTQ+ Issues , ADHD , Trauma, Autism Spectrum Disorders , PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Mood Disorders.
I specialize in addressing a spectrum of mental health concerns including: Anxiety ,Depression ,Psychosis , LGBTQ+ Issues , ADHD , Trauma, Autism Spectrum Disorders , PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Mood Disorders.
(619) 612-0684 View (619) 612-0684
Photo of Gather Your Strength Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Gather Your Strength Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108
With almost 10 years in the field, I have helped individuals who have experienced symptoms of Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, and Psychosis.
Welcome, my name is Michael James Garrett, MA, LMFT. I work with youth, adults, families, and couples who are challenged by everyday life stressors. As a Geek therapist, I am able to use the psychology of geek culture in order to better ourselves and avoid unwanted behaviors. Do you find yourself feeling extremely sad, lonely, or have difficulty getting out of bed? Do you feel so anxious that it is difficult to get through each day? Perhaps you or even someone you know is struggling with finding a balance between video games and life. If any of this sounds familiar to you, I’m here to help.
With almost 10 years in the field, I have helped individuals who have experienced symptoms of Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, and Psychosis.
Welcome, my name is Michael James Garrett, MA, LMFT. I work with youth, adults, families, and couples who are challenged by everyday life stressors. As a Geek therapist, I am able to use the psychology of geek culture in order to better ourselves and avoid unwanted behaviors. Do you find yourself feeling extremely sad, lonely, or have difficulty getting out of bed? Do you feel so anxious that it is difficult to get through each day? Perhaps you or even someone you know is struggling with finding a balance between video games and life. If any of this sounds familiar to you, I’m here to help.
(619) 494-0485 View (619) 494-0485
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.