Photo of Addy Danielle Oneil, LCSW, SAC-IT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Addy Danielle Oneil
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SAC-IT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80223  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Addy is a licensed clinical social worker with over 10 years of experience in the field of mental health. Addy also holds her Substance Abuse Counseling in training license. Addy specializes in supporting individuals through the complexities of mental health, particularly those navigating the impacts of substance misuse, trauma, domestic violence, depression, anxiety, bipolar, ADHD, and difficult life transitions.
Addy is a licensed clinical social worker with over 10 years of experience in the field of mental health. Addy also holds her Substance Abuse Counseling in training license. Addy specializes in supporting individuals through the complexities of mental health, particularly those navigating the impacts of substance misuse, trauma, domestic violence, depression, anxiety, bipolar, ADHD, and difficult life transitions.
(262) 299-7466 View (262) 299-7466
Photo of Jamie Kinley, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jamie Kinley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80224
Life can be really hard, and sometimes the hardest part is asking for help. Humans are complicated, social beings who have been cut off from society and routine for the past two years. If you have a history of mental illness, relationship issues, identity concerns, mood changes, or life transitions, those feelings may have been exacerbated by our current world. If you are ready to ask for help, let me offer a relaxed, non - judgmental space to provide mental wellness. I have worked for close to a decade with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and personality disorders.
Life can be really hard, and sometimes the hardest part is asking for help. Humans are complicated, social beings who have been cut off from society and routine for the past two years. If you have a history of mental illness, relationship issues, identity concerns, mood changes, or life transitions, those feelings may have been exacerbated by our current world. If you are ready to ask for help, let me offer a relaxed, non - judgmental space to provide mental wellness. I have worked for close to a decade with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and personality disorders.
(303) 353-0378 View (303) 353-0378
Photo of Kristin N Gearhart, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kristin N Gearhart
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80231
I specialize in treating trauma/PTSD, depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety,parenting and relationship issues, military issues and personality disorders. I enjoy working with people of all ages, in individual, family and couples counseling and have experience working with military members and their families.
I specialize in treating trauma/PTSD, depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety,parenting and relationship issues, military issues and personality disorders. I enjoy working with people of all ages, in individual, family and couples counseling and have experience working with military members and their families.
(720) 809-7815 View (720) 809-7815
Photo of Analice Hoffenberg - Your Wellness Journey LLC, MD, MSPH, FASAM
Your Wellness Journey LLC
MD, MSPH, FASAM
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80222
In the Denver, Colorado, office, patients find a sanctuary where they can get personalized help for anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, other mental health challenges, and the substance use struggles that often accompany them.
Thanks for visiting! My professional experience encompasses Addiction Medicine, General Psychiatry, and Preventive Medicine. I created the Your Wellness Journey Center, a place where we strive to help our patients to achieve wellness through evidence-based psychiatric and substance use recovery care, integrating Western and Eastern Medicine approaches. Our services are professional, personable, and based on methods proven to help you achieve sustainable recovery from substance use and mental health problems in a holistic way.
In the Denver, Colorado, office, patients find a sanctuary where they can get personalized help for anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, other mental health challenges, and the substance use struggles that often accompany them.
Thanks for visiting! My professional experience encompasses Addiction Medicine, General Psychiatry, and Preventive Medicine. I created the Your Wellness Journey Center, a place where we strive to help our patients to achieve wellness through evidence-based psychiatric and substance use recovery care, integrating Western and Eastern Medicine approaches. Our services are professional, personable, and based on methods proven to help you achieve sustainable recovery from substance use and mental health problems in a holistic way.
(303) 489-1799 View (303) 489-1799
Photo of Christa Shepherd, MA, LPC, Counselor
Christa Shepherd
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80209
Waitlist for new clients
I have experience working with college students, people recovering from addictions, adjusting to life changes, processing spiritual hurt, and pursuing health amidst struggles with depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorders.
You don't always have to feel the way you're feeling now. Maybe you've become aware of some hurts or trauma that are holding you back from living a full life. Maybe you are going through vocational difficulties, relationship strain, or find yourself doing things you really don't want to do over and over again. Maybe things are alright but you wonder if there is just something more to life or to who you are. You're ready to make changes, or maybe just to explore what growth could be like. Welcome! There is hope here.
I have experience working with college students, people recovering from addictions, adjusting to life changes, processing spiritual hurt, and pursuing health amidst struggles with depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorders.
You don't always have to feel the way you're feeling now. Maybe you've become aware of some hurts or trauma that are holding you back from living a full life. Maybe you are going through vocational difficulties, relationship strain, or find yourself doing things you really don't want to do over and over again. Maybe things are alright but you wonder if there is just something more to life or to who you are. You're ready to make changes, or maybe just to explore what growth could be like. Welcome! There is hope here.
(720) 730-5065 View (720) 730-5065
Photo of Laura Elizabeth Olaniyi
Laura Elizabeth Olaniyi
Clinical Social Work Candidate
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80211  (Online Only)
With 9 years of local and international experience, Laura has honed her skills in supporting individuals of all ages - adults, adolescents, and children - in various settings, from child welfare environments to direct care scenarios. Her extensive background enables her to address a wide range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, and life transitions. You can expect a warm and non-judgmental atmosphere, where your concerns are heard and understood. Her genuine care and expertise create a trusting environment, making it easier for clients to open up and embark on a transformative journey.
With 9 years of local and international experience, Laura has honed her skills in supporting individuals of all ages - adults, adolescents, and children - in various settings, from child welfare environments to direct care scenarios. Her extensive background enables her to address a wide range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, and life transitions. You can expect a warm and non-judgmental atmosphere, where your concerns are heard and understood. Her genuine care and expertise create a trusting environment, making it easier for clients to open up and embark on a transformative journey.
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Photo of Julia Hamlett, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julia Hamlett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80210
Julia's experience spans a wide range of concerns including anxietyrelated disorders, depression, trauma, bipolar disorder, ADHD, familial/relational conflicts, gender identity, women's issues, men's issues, emotion identification and regulation, grief, attachment wounds, transitional life experiences, and work/school related stress.
Julia Hamlett is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Colorado who has been practicing since 2020. She graduated with her Master of Social Work and AnimalAssisted Social Work Certificate at the University of Denver Graduate School of Social Work and obtained her Bachelor's degree in Psychology with a minor in Human Services from Stevenson University.
Julia's experience spans a wide range of concerns including anxietyrelated disorders, depression, trauma, bipolar disorder, ADHD, familial/relational conflicts, gender identity, women's issues, men's issues, emotion identification and regulation, grief, attachment wounds, transitional life experiences, and work/school related stress.
Julia Hamlett is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Colorado who has been practicing since 2020. She graduated with her Master of Social Work and AnimalAssisted Social Work Certificate at the University of Denver Graduate School of Social Work and obtained her Bachelor's degree in Psychology with a minor in Human Services from Stevenson University.
(720) 734-3846 View (720) 734-3846
Photo of Regina Kearney - Regina Kearney, LCSW, LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Regina Kearney, LCSW, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80218
I am passionate about the work I do and truly enjoy helping people cope with, and move forward from, the issues that lead them to counseling. I offer individual and family therapy to teens and adults. Specialties include: anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar depression, trauma, grief and loss, relationship problems, and life transitions. You can expect that in our work together I will provide compassionate, honest and effective feedback, education and skills coaching that supports attaining your goals. I believe in focusing on the strengths you already possess and solutions that will work.
I am passionate about the work I do and truly enjoy helping people cope with, and move forward from, the issues that lead them to counseling. I offer individual and family therapy to teens and adults. Specialties include: anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar depression, trauma, grief and loss, relationship problems, and life transitions. You can expect that in our work together I will provide compassionate, honest and effective feedback, education and skills coaching that supports attaining your goals. I believe in focusing on the strengths you already possess and solutions that will work.
(720) 758-0986 View (720) 758-0986
Photo of Rachel Calderon, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Calderon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80220  (Online Only)
I predominantly work with trauma, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, race related trauma, and with those in the LGBT+ community.
Welcome ! I have been a therapist for 10 years and truly enjoy the work I do. I hope to provide a non-judgmental and supportive environment as you process and learn evidence based, mental health skills. I love to work with clients of all backgrounds and value cultural humility in the therapeutic setting, above all else.
I predominantly work with trauma, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, race related trauma, and with those in the LGBT+ community.
Welcome ! I have been a therapist for 10 years and truly enjoy the work I do. I hope to provide a non-judgmental and supportive environment as you process and learn evidence based, mental health skills. I love to work with clients of all backgrounds and value cultural humility in the therapeutic setting, above all else.
(720) 594-2451 View (720) 594-2451
Photo of Stacey M King, LPC -IT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stacey M King
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC -IT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80210
I have been working with clients who suffer from, bipolar disorder, depression, borderline personality disorder.
As a licensed professional counselor, in specializing treating people, with mental health disorders. I have worked with clients who suffer, from major depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia clients. I have also worked with clients who suffer from borderline personality disorder. I have worked with children, adolescents, and adult clients. It's my duty, to make sure that you are coping well, with your mental health, and learning how to live a more fulfilling life. I will go out my way, to make sure my clients are getting what they need, to start to make healthier progress in their Everday life."
I have been working with clients who suffer from, bipolar disorder, depression, borderline personality disorder.
As a licensed professional counselor, in specializing treating people, with mental health disorders. I have worked with clients who suffer, from major depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia clients. I have also worked with clients who suffer from borderline personality disorder. I have worked with children, adolescents, and adult clients. It's my duty, to make sure that you are coping well, with your mental health, and learning how to live a more fulfilling life. I will go out my way, to make sure my clients are getting what they need, to start to make healthier progress in their Everday life."
(414) 622-7120 View (414) 622-7120
Photo of Kathy Phan, MA,  CSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kathy Phan
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, CSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80219
Kathy Phan, CSWC Originally from Washington state, Kathy obtained her bachelor’s and master’s in Social Work from Eastern Washington University after realizing her purpose in life was to serve others. Kathy believes that everyone deserves a safe space to tell their story, in their own words, at their own pace. Kathy thoroughly enjoys working with every population and does not deny access to care to anyone. She has years of experience working with at-risk youth, veterans, incarcerated individuals, and high acuity psychiatric patients. Kathy welcomes anyone who is experiencing Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, Bipolar, Psychosis, etc.
Kathy Phan, CSWC Originally from Washington state, Kathy obtained her bachelor’s and master’s in Social Work from Eastern Washington University after realizing her purpose in life was to serve others. Kathy believes that everyone deserves a safe space to tell their story, in their own words, at their own pace. Kathy thoroughly enjoys working with every population and does not deny access to care to anyone. She has years of experience working with at-risk youth, veterans, incarcerated individuals, and high acuity psychiatric patients. Kathy welcomes anyone who is experiencing Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, Bipolar, Psychosis, etc.
(720) 734-5293 View (720) 734-5293
Photo of Amanda J Mattila, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amanda J Mattila
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80204  (Online Only)
Are you ready to start living your best life instead of just surviving? I specialize in treating symptoms of mental health disorders including trauma, eating disorders, substance use, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and personality disorders. I love to help the person who feels like there's no hope and life will never be any different than it is right now. I know from personal experience and seeing many clients before you that there is hope and a way out of your current feeling. My goal is to help you achieve your biggest dreams and goals that you have for your life and your mental health!
Are you ready to start living your best life instead of just surviving? I specialize in treating symptoms of mental health disorders including trauma, eating disorders, substance use, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and personality disorders. I love to help the person who feels like there's no hope and life will never be any different than it is right now. I know from personal experience and seeing many clients before you that there is hope and a way out of your current feeling. My goal is to help you achieve your biggest dreams and goals that you have for your life and your mental health!
(720) 465-5633 View (720) 465-5633
Photo of Megan K Viall, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Megan K Viall
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80201  (Online Only)
I have experience working with individuals managing lives touched with mood and anxiety disorders, including depression and bipolar; grief; domestic violence (offenders and victims); physical, emotional and sexual abuse; custody issues; family reunification; marriage/relationship hurdles; problem sexual behavior; borderline personality disorder/characteristics; PTSD; ADD/ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder and other sensory disorders; death and dying; caretaking of ill and aging family members; and life change events, i.e. anything that is a positive change, but also brings with it fear, doubt and lots of unknowns.
I have experience working with individuals managing lives touched with mood and anxiety disorders, including depression and bipolar; grief; domestic violence (offenders and victims); physical, emotional and sexual abuse; custody issues; family reunification; marriage/relationship hurdles; problem sexual behavior; borderline personality disorder/characteristics; PTSD; ADD/ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder and other sensory disorders; death and dying; caretaking of ill and aging family members; and life change events, i.e. anything that is a positive change, but also brings with it fear, doubt and lots of unknowns.
(480) 680-9286 View (480) 680-9286
Photo of Lisa Griffiths - Center for Valued Living, PLLC, PsyD, LPC, LCSW, LMFT, LAC, Psychologist
Center for Valued Living, PLLC
Psychologist, PsyD, LPC, LCSW, LMFT, LAC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80204
Common Issues or Specialties: Adults, Children/Adolescents/Teens, Family, Depression, Anxiety, Mood Disorders, Trauma/PTSD, Bipolar, Relationship problems, Couples, EMDR, CBT, DBT, play therapy, work/school stress; Identity issues; panic, grief/loss, work comp.
We are a group of highly-qualified mental health therapists serving all over CO via telehealth and in-person (offices in Aurora). Our licensed therapists and supervised LPCC/SWC/intern providers take most insurances including Medicaid. See c4vl.com or photo gallery for details on our clinicians, & specialties, insurances. We are committed to anti-racist, neurodivergent-affirming, and GLBTQIA+ allied practice. We have providers who speak Spanish, French, and Russian. Hablamos Espanol tambien!
Common Issues or Specialties: Adults, Children/Adolescents/Teens, Family, Depression, Anxiety, Mood Disorders, Trauma/PTSD, Bipolar, Relationship problems, Couples, EMDR, CBT, DBT, play therapy, work/school stress; Identity issues; panic, grief/loss, work comp.
We are a group of highly-qualified mental health therapists serving all over CO via telehealth and in-person (offices in Aurora). Our licensed therapists and supervised LPCC/SWC/intern providers take most insurances including Medicaid. See c4vl.com or photo gallery for details on our clinicians, & specialties, insurances. We are committed to anti-racist, neurodivergent-affirming, and GLBTQIA+ allied practice. We have providers who speak Spanish, French, and Russian. Hablamos Espanol tambien!
(720) 262-5859 View (720) 262-5859
Photo of Jessica J Studer, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica J Studer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80210
Jessica Studer is a licensed clinical social worker who earned her MSW at Smith College School for Social Work. She is trained in psychodynamic, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitation Reprocessing) and IFS (Internal Family Systems) approaches. She has over a decade or experience in the mental health field working with a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, PTSD, complex trauma, bipolar disorder, ADHD and life transitions. Her passion and expertise is helping people better understand how they are in relationship with others, healing from past traumas and navigating unjust systems.
Jessica Studer is a licensed clinical social worker who earned her MSW at Smith College School for Social Work. She is trained in psychodynamic, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitation Reprocessing) and IFS (Internal Family Systems) approaches. She has over a decade or experience in the mental health field working with a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, PTSD, complex trauma, bipolar disorder, ADHD and life transitions. Her passion and expertise is helping people better understand how they are in relationship with others, healing from past traumas and navigating unjust systems.
(720) 637-4280 View (720) 637-4280
Photo of Eileen Lang, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Eileen Lang
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80221
Eileen Lang is a licensed clinical social worker and a licensed addiction counselor with over 30 years of experience working with clients with mental health and addiction issues. She graduated from New York University School of Social Work and is originally from New York but, has been in Colorado for over 25 years. She specializes in helping clients manage anxiety, depression or bipolar disorder and/or come to terms with grief and loss or find closure to trauma. She believes life is a journey and you have the power to chart your own course.
Eileen Lang is a licensed clinical social worker and a licensed addiction counselor with over 30 years of experience working with clients with mental health and addiction issues. She graduated from New York University School of Social Work and is originally from New York but, has been in Colorado for over 25 years. She specializes in helping clients manage anxiety, depression or bipolar disorder and/or come to terms with grief and loss or find closure to trauma. She believes life is a journey and you have the power to chart your own course.
(720) 790-5067 View (720) 790-5067
Photo of Marcy Libeer, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Marcy Libeer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80221
Marcy Libeer is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado who has been practicing since 2024. She has an MA in Community Counseling from Adam's State University. Marcy has worked with a wide array of mental health problems, from Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, Depression, and Anxiety to life challenges and stress. She believes that building a connection with her clients is very important. Marcy also incorporates CBT, family dynamics, relationship skills, art therapy, and cinema therapy with her clients. Outside of work, Marcy enjoys movies, TV, animals (especially her dogs), art, and being creative.
Marcy Libeer is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado who has been practicing since 2024. She has an MA in Community Counseling from Adam's State University. Marcy has worked with a wide array of mental health problems, from Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, Depression, and Anxiety to life challenges and stress. She believes that building a connection with her clients is very important. Marcy also incorporates CBT, family dynamics, relationship skills, art therapy, and cinema therapy with her clients. Outside of work, Marcy enjoys movies, TV, animals (especially her dogs), art, and being creative.
(720) 796-7068 View (720) 796-7068
Photo of Katelyn McAree, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katelyn McAree
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80002
I provide Individual psychotherapy, in-person and via televideo, to people living with mental health challenges including, but not limited to depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar, co-occurring disorders, grief/loss challenges, & relationship issues.
We are all inherently worthy, resilient, and hard-wired to be connected to others; we also inevitably face suffering in life which can create barriers to these aspects of ourselves. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, my mission is to work alongside you - to be present, deeply listen, and assist you in coming back to the core parts of who you are; to help you transform your suffering into contentment and wholeness. I will be present for whatever you bring to our therapy space and support you in harnessing your power to create the change you want to see in your life.
I provide Individual psychotherapy, in-person and via televideo, to people living with mental health challenges including, but not limited to depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar, co-occurring disorders, grief/loss challenges, & relationship issues.
We are all inherently worthy, resilient, and hard-wired to be connected to others; we also inevitably face suffering in life which can create barriers to these aspects of ourselves. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, my mission is to work alongside you - to be present, deeply listen, and assist you in coming back to the core parts of who you are; to help you transform your suffering into contentment and wholeness. I will be present for whatever you bring to our therapy space and support you in harnessing your power to create the change you want to see in your life.
(406) 631-8918 View (406) 631-8918
Photo of Consuelo I Mockerman, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Consuelo I Mockerman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80014  (Online Only)
Do you feel depressed, lonely, angry, anxious, stressed out, or empty? Are these issues getting between you and reaching your goals? it is time to seek help. This is the first step to healing. I specialized in working with individuals who experience PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Personality Disorders and Anxiety.
Do you feel depressed, lonely, angry, anxious, stressed out, or empty? Are these issues getting between you and reaching your goals? it is time to seek help. This is the first step to healing. I specialized in working with individuals who experience PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Personality Disorders and Anxiety.
(719) 751-8121 View (719) 751-8121
Photo of Marilee Boe, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Marilee Boe
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80222
How would you describe your thinking. 'You are what you think.' How does your thinking get in your way of feeling more content, confident, and comfortable with your self and others? Typically my clients can create effective changes within a short period of time. The reduction in depression and anxiety can be reduced relatively quickly by learning and implementing a few new skills. If you have the courage to be looking at therapists' profiles, you are ready to make some changes in your life. I can help you with that. Call me.
How would you describe your thinking. 'You are what you think.' How does your thinking get in your way of feeling more content, confident, and comfortable with your self and others? Typically my clients can create effective changes within a short period of time. The reduction in depression and anxiety can be reduced relatively quickly by learning and implementing a few new skills. If you have the courage to be looking at therapists' profiles, you are ready to make some changes in your life. I can help you with that. Call me.
(720) 463-1322 View (720) 463-1322
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.