Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Jamestown, CO

Photo of Erica Brann, LCSW, Psychotherapy, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Jamestown, CO
Erica Brann, LCSW, Psychotherapy, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jamestown, CO 80455
The desire to be connected to others is innate, and yet we sometimes find ourselves alone, hopeless, sad, scared, and angry. I believe that being connected to ourselves and others is part of the human experience, and recovery from symptoms that interrupt our ability to live our lives to the fullest is possible. I have over 20 years of experience working with individuals who struggle with issues related to depression, anxiety, trauma and addiction. I believe change and insight are possible, and freedom from pain and suffering is attainable.
The desire to be connected to others is innate, and yet we sometimes find ourselves alone, hopeless, sad, scared, and angry. I believe that being connected to ourselves and others is part of the human experience, and recovery from symptoms that interrupt our ability to live our lives to the fullest is possible. I have over 20 years of experience working with individuals who struggle with issues related to depression, anxiety, trauma and addiction. I believe change and insight are possible, and freedom from pain and suffering is attainable.
(720) 782-1142 View (720) 782-1142

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Christine Lekas, Licensed Professional Counselor in Jamestown, CO
Christine Lekas
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80304  (Online Only)
I work with people who are struggling with bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, self esteem, mood regulation, relationship issues, and communication issues in a collaborative and compassionate environment. In this supportive space you can learn how to navigate the roadblocks that life has presented you. My goal is to help you build the life you want to live by building awareness of yourself, breaking unwanted cycles, and teaching you how to to use coping skills to improve your quality of life. We are all capable of change, and my job is to help guide you through this process of growth and healing.
I work with people who are struggling with bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, self esteem, mood regulation, relationship issues, and communication issues in a collaborative and compassionate environment. In this supportive space you can learn how to navigate the roadblocks that life has presented you. My goal is to help you build the life you want to live by building awareness of yourself, breaking unwanted cycles, and teaching you how to to use coping skills to improve your quality of life. We are all capable of change, and my job is to help guide you through this process of growth and healing.
(720) 619-8275 View (720) 619-8275
Photo of Taylor Diltz, Licensed Professional Counselor in Jamestown, CO
Taylor Diltz
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80302  (Online Only)
My specialty involves working with trauma and mood disorders including those with depression, bipolar, and/or anxiety.
As a counselor, I am passionate and dedicated to connecting with people to assist them through any challenges they may be facing. I embrace the strong belief that individuals need to hold a focus on healing rather than not feeling. My approach involves bringing those feelings and memories we try to avoid to the front of our consciousness to process and heal from them in more appropriate and healthy ways. I enjoy working with adults that stem from a variety of backgrounds. In individual, couple, and group settings, I offer a safe, caring, and compassionate environment for all individuals seeking support.
My specialty involves working with trauma and mood disorders including those with depression, bipolar, and/or anxiety.
As a counselor, I am passionate and dedicated to connecting with people to assist them through any challenges they may be facing. I embrace the strong belief that individuals need to hold a focus on healing rather than not feeling. My approach involves bringing those feelings and memories we try to avoid to the front of our consciousness to process and heal from them in more appropriate and healthy ways. I enjoy working with adults that stem from a variety of backgrounds. In individual, couple, and group settings, I offer a safe, caring, and compassionate environment for all individuals seeking support.
(720) 702-1756 View (720) 702-1756
Photo of Gardiner Turner, Counselor in Jamestown, CO
Gardiner Turner
Counselor, BA, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80304  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
The passion for the work that I do comes from my deep conviction that everyone can benefit from, and in fact deserves, a safe space to be truly heard, seen, and understood. I enjoy working with individuals of all ages and backgrounds, and have experience/ training in supporting clients struggling with a wide range of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, substance use, grief, shame, trauma/PTSD, bipolar disorder, and psychosis. I do not ascribe to a one size fits all model of therapy and believe every client to be unique both in terms of there personal goals for therapy and the best way to help them reach these goals
The passion for the work that I do comes from my deep conviction that everyone can benefit from, and in fact deserves, a safe space to be truly heard, seen, and understood. I enjoy working with individuals of all ages and backgrounds, and have experience/ training in supporting clients struggling with a wide range of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, substance use, grief, shame, trauma/PTSD, bipolar disorder, and psychosis. I do not ascribe to a one size fits all model of therapy and believe every client to be unique both in terms of there personal goals for therapy and the best way to help them reach these goals
(970) 533-2923 View (970) 533-2923
Photo of Emily Black, Counselor in Jamestown, CO
Emily Black
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80304
I’ve worked with Rose House Addiction & Mental Health Treatment Center, the Faculty & Staff Assistance Program at CU Boulder, Naropa Community Counseling Center, Sutherland Bipolar Center, Mental Health Partners, the Women’s Center in Cambridge, MA, and the Safehouse Progressive Alliance on Nonviolence.
I am a psychotherapist and expressive arts therapist based in Boulder, CO. I use a trauma-informed approach that draws on the depth of relational psychoanalysis, the practicality of cognitive behavioral therapy, and the expressive magic of somatic and art-based approaches. I love working with anxiety and OCD-related disorders, embodiment and trauma healing, relationship issues, gifted populations, and people looking to nurture their creativity. I work with adults, couples, and teens. I’m especially passionate about the journey of individuation while holding each unique life story in a social justice context.
I’ve worked with Rose House Addiction & Mental Health Treatment Center, the Faculty & Staff Assistance Program at CU Boulder, Naropa Community Counseling Center, Sutherland Bipolar Center, Mental Health Partners, the Women’s Center in Cambridge, MA, and the Safehouse Progressive Alliance on Nonviolence.
I am a psychotherapist and expressive arts therapist based in Boulder, CO. I use a trauma-informed approach that draws on the depth of relational psychoanalysis, the practicality of cognitive behavioral therapy, and the expressive magic of somatic and art-based approaches. I love working with anxiety and OCD-related disorders, embodiment and trauma healing, relationship issues, gifted populations, and people looking to nurture their creativity. I work with adults, couples, and teens. I’m especially passionate about the journey of individuation while holding each unique life story in a social justice context.
(720) 794-9972 View (720) 794-9972
Photo of Cynthia L Divino, Psychologist in Jamestown, CO
Cynthia L Divino
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80304
I have helped hundreds of children with behavior problems, ADHD, anxiety, depression, pediatric bipolar disorder, and situational issues.
I have more than 30 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families. My expertise is in treating trauma and attachment issues but I am adept at helping with anxiety, depression, and adjusting to a current life crisis such as divorce and loss. Another area of expertise is working with children, especially children between 0 and 6.
I have helped hundreds of children with behavior problems, ADHD, anxiety, depression, pediatric bipolar disorder, and situational issues.
I have more than 30 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families. My expertise is in treating trauma and attachment issues but I am adept at helping with anxiety, depression, and adjusting to a current life crisis such as divorce and loss. Another area of expertise is working with children, especially children between 0 and 6.
(720) 263-4676 View (720) 263-4676
Photo of SOL Positive Mindful Therapy, Logan Newens, Licensed Professional Counselor in Jamestown, CO
SOL Positive Mindful Therapy, Logan Newens
Licensed Professional Counselor, MACP, LPC, LAC
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80304
There is a way to move out of suffering toward healing, and you deserve to find it. Specializing in addiction counseling and therapy for co-occurring mood disorders, I offer substance use counseling and addiction therapy and treat anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, trauma, grief & loss, life transitions, anger issues, and self-confidence/esteem issues. I am trained in humanistic, positive, mindfulness-based psychotherapy and use a strengths-based and trauma-informed approach.
There is a way to move out of suffering toward healing, and you deserve to find it. Specializing in addiction counseling and therapy for co-occurring mood disorders, I offer substance use counseling and addiction therapy and treat anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, trauma, grief & loss, life transitions, anger issues, and self-confidence/esteem issues. I am trained in humanistic, positive, mindfulness-based psychotherapy and use a strengths-based and trauma-informed approach.
(720) 500-7142 View (720) 500-7142
Photo of Dana Cohen, Counselor in Jamestown, CO
Dana Cohen
Counselor, MA, LPCC, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80304
I'm a specialized therapist who works primarily with neurodivergence, specifically ADHD, OCD, autism & borderline spectrums, and chronic depression, anxiety, & bipolar disorders. I also have expertise in complex trauma issues, often stemming from narcissistic family systems or relationship abuse. Many of my clients possess an excellent or above-average capacity for self-reflection and introspection. However, they feel their heightened self-awareness can sometimes backfire, magnifying feelings of powerlessness and frustration when they find themselves stuck in repetitive patterns and unable to make desired changes in their behaviors.
I'm a specialized therapist who works primarily with neurodivergence, specifically ADHD, OCD, autism & borderline spectrums, and chronic depression, anxiety, & bipolar disorders. I also have expertise in complex trauma issues, often stemming from narcissistic family systems or relationship abuse. Many of my clients possess an excellent or above-average capacity for self-reflection and introspection. However, they feel their heightened self-awareness can sometimes backfire, magnifying feelings of powerlessness and frustration when they find themselves stuck in repetitive patterns and unable to make desired changes in their behaviors.
(720) 807-5153 View (720) 807-5153
Photo of Laura Travisano, Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate in Jamestown, CO
Laura Travisano
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, MA, LPCC, ADDC
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80302
I believe true connection and healing are possible, and that therapy holds the capacity for profound transformation. We'll work within a supportive and accepting environment navigating areas relating to belonging, past trauma, owning the strength of sensitivity and confidence in self expression. I specialize in supporting identities and interests such as high sensitivity, low self esteem and self worth, spirituality, codependency, childhood emotional neglect, addiction, adult children and siblings of substance users, life transitions, anxiety, depression, loneliness, and Bipolar disorder.
I believe true connection and healing are possible, and that therapy holds the capacity for profound transformation. We'll work within a supportive and accepting environment navigating areas relating to belonging, past trauma, owning the strength of sensitivity and confidence in self expression. I specialize in supporting identities and interests such as high sensitivity, low self esteem and self worth, spirituality, codependency, childhood emotional neglect, addiction, adult children and siblings of substance users, life transitions, anxiety, depression, loneliness, and Bipolar disorder.
(720) 794-5869 View (720) 794-5869
Photo of Becca Armstrong, Registered Psychotherapist in Jamestown, CO
Becca Armstrong
Registered Psychotherapist, CCHT
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80304  (Online Only)
Specialties: Anxiety, Depression, Panic, Fears, Phobias, ADD/ADHD, Mood Disorders, Procrastination, OCD, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Stress-Related Issues, and Somatic Disorders.
Becca Armstrong, with over 26 years of experience in Transformation Coaching and Psychotherapy, has helped over 10,000 individuals worldwide to transform and thrive. Collaborating with esteemed leaders such as Marcia Weider and Bob Proctor, she served as Bob Proctor's Executive Director, where she developed and co-taught each of his international coach certification programs. Her pioneering work in Subconscious Systems continues to revolutionize the field of Transformational Coaching.
Specialties: Anxiety, Depression, Panic, Fears, Phobias, ADD/ADHD, Mood Disorders, Procrastination, OCD, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Stress-Related Issues, and Somatic Disorders.
Becca Armstrong, with over 26 years of experience in Transformation Coaching and Psychotherapy, has helped over 10,000 individuals worldwide to transform and thrive. Collaborating with esteemed leaders such as Marcia Weider and Bob Proctor, she served as Bob Proctor's Executive Director, where she developed and co-taught each of his international coach certification programs. Her pioneering work in Subconscious Systems continues to revolutionize the field of Transformational Coaching.
(303) 647-4960 View (303) 647-4960
Photo of Erin Yaden, Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate in Jamestown, CO
Erin Yaden
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, LPCC
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302  (Online Only)
My specialties include working with teens, adults, and families struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, bipolar disorders, grief, conflict, etc.
Seeking therapy can be a daunting task, and I am here to provide a safe and supportive space to explore your thoughts and emotions. As a therapist, my primary goal is to your well-being and personal growth. Your trust is paramount to our work together, and I am committed to maintaining a confidential, respectful, and empathetic environment. Your experiences are valid, and together, we will explore them with care and attention. I will work collaboratively with you to address your unique needs, drawing upon evidence-based techniques and my experience to support you in your journey.
My specialties include working with teens, adults, and families struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, bipolar disorders, grief, conflict, etc.
Seeking therapy can be a daunting task, and I am here to provide a safe and supportive space to explore your thoughts and emotions. As a therapist, my primary goal is to your well-being and personal growth. Your trust is paramount to our work together, and I am committed to maintaining a confidential, respectful, and empathetic environment. Your experiences are valid, and together, we will explore them with care and attention. I will work collaboratively with you to address your unique needs, drawing upon evidence-based techniques and my experience to support you in your journey.
(720) 588-3106 View (720) 588-3106
Photo of Gabriela Zorzutti in Jamestown, CO
Gabriela Zorzutti
ABD, PHDCand, AME, IFEPFCL
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302
Why psychoanalysis? In a world demanding of standards, success, happiness, etc. -or else you're dysfunctional-, psychoanalysis offers a space where adaptation is not the goal, it does not aim at 'making you normal', the main focus is desire. Causing the ability to respond to desire in a singular manner, yours, constitutes the core of the discipline, the cure happens in addition. A life where desire is present is worth living, analysis is a unique approach to get and stay there. I am an Argentinian psychoanalyst trained in Freudian and Lacanian analysis, an ABD PhD Candidate and doctoral researcher for the University of Buenos Aires.
Why psychoanalysis? In a world demanding of standards, success, happiness, etc. -or else you're dysfunctional-, psychoanalysis offers a space where adaptation is not the goal, it does not aim at 'making you normal', the main focus is desire. Causing the ability to respond to desire in a singular manner, yours, constitutes the core of the discipline, the cure happens in addition. A life where desire is present is worth living, analysis is a unique approach to get and stay there. I am an Argentinian psychoanalyst trained in Freudian and Lacanian analysis, an ABD PhD Candidate and doctoral researcher for the University of Buenos Aires.
(303) 562-1478 View (303) 562-1478
Photo of Moana Kruschwitz, Psychologist in Jamestown, CO
Moana Kruschwitz
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302
I believe that there is great power in developing a deeper understanding of who you are, your strengths and weakness, and how your brain functions and adapts-and applying this information to develop ways to manage and communicate your emotions and needs to the important people in your life. I have been working with kids, teens, adults and families for the last 15 years, and find it very meaningful and rewarding. I specialize in anxiety, depression, attachment and neurodevelopmental disorders, using cognitive-behavioral, interpersonal, solution-oriented and family systems based approaches.
I believe that there is great power in developing a deeper understanding of who you are, your strengths and weakness, and how your brain functions and adapts-and applying this information to develop ways to manage and communicate your emotions and needs to the important people in your life. I have been working with kids, teens, adults and families for the last 15 years, and find it very meaningful and rewarding. I specialize in anxiety, depression, attachment and neurodevelopmental disorders, using cognitive-behavioral, interpersonal, solution-oriented and family systems based approaches.
(303) 951-4779 View (303) 951-4779
Photo of Patrick Ross Vann, Psychologist in Jamestown, CO
Patrick Ross Vann
Psychologist, Ed, D
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302
I assume serious intent to address whatever brought the patient to my office in the first place. It is my hope to form the most positive therapeutic alliance possible. The first step is to acknowledge the courage it took to make the call. I have been practicing as a licensed Clinical Psychologist for thirty years. I have also served as a faculty member at the University of Colorado Boulder for over twenty years. I mostly see chronic depressed and anxious patients I .have worked across the spectrum from imminently suicidial to the broader existential issues concerning a more meaningful life.
I assume serious intent to address whatever brought the patient to my office in the first place. It is my hope to form the most positive therapeutic alliance possible. The first step is to acknowledge the courage it took to make the call. I have been practicing as a licensed Clinical Psychologist for thirty years. I have also served as a faculty member at the University of Colorado Boulder for over twenty years. I mostly see chronic depressed and anxious patients I .have worked across the spectrum from imminently suicidial to the broader existential issues concerning a more meaningful life.
(303) 835-6786 View (303) 835-6786
Photo of Rebecca Finnoff, Licensed Professional Counselor in Jamestown, CO
Rebecca Finnoff
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80304
As a seasoned psychotherapist/life coach, I believe in our innate healing potential and guide my clients to unlock their internal wisdom, resilience and resources for healing. Somatic (body-centered), mindfulness-based approaches to holistic coaching and therapy, allow me to integrate my clinical training while tuning into intuition to effectively guide the unfolding healing process of my clients. Trauma-informed, holistic coaching and therapy allows for greater capacity to rewire the brain, which can make the unconscious conscious and shift your automatic reactive patterns and outdated beliefs, helping you to live your best life.
As a seasoned psychotherapist/life coach, I believe in our innate healing potential and guide my clients to unlock their internal wisdom, resilience and resources for healing. Somatic (body-centered), mindfulness-based approaches to holistic coaching and therapy, allow me to integrate my clinical training while tuning into intuition to effectively guide the unfolding healing process of my clients. Trauma-informed, holistic coaching and therapy allows for greater capacity to rewire the brain, which can make the unconscious conscious and shift your automatic reactive patterns and outdated beliefs, helping you to live your best life.
(720) 712-3946 View (720) 712-3946
Photo of Whitney Sutherland, Licensed Professional Counselor in Jamestown, CO
Whitney Sutherland
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NARM
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80302
Early in life we learn to disconnect from our bodies and emotions in order to survive and adapt to the environment. Overtime, this manifests as patterns of behavior and self-rejection that though were once adaptive, now only keep us stuck. These patterns typically manifest as anxiety, depression, self-hatred, toxic shame, addictions, obsessions, compulsions, codependency and relationship problems. I work experientially in the moment to get to the root of what is getting in the way of desired experiences on an identity level. Many clients describe this process as a gradual “coming home” or reconnection to their authentic self.
Early in life we learn to disconnect from our bodies and emotions in order to survive and adapt to the environment. Overtime, this manifests as patterns of behavior and self-rejection that though were once adaptive, now only keep us stuck. These patterns typically manifest as anxiety, depression, self-hatred, toxic shame, addictions, obsessions, compulsions, codependency and relationship problems. I work experientially in the moment to get to the root of what is getting in the way of desired experiences on an identity level. Many clients describe this process as a gradual “coming home” or reconnection to their authentic self.
(737) 367-2001 View (737) 367-2001
Photo of Sharon Kocina, Licensed Professional Counselor in Jamestown, CO
Sharon Kocina
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80302
Are you suffering from PTSD, struggling with life transitions, or frustrated in your relationship(s)? Brainspotting (and EMDR) & EFT are powerful tools to free you to live the life you want without the baggage from the past. Clients say that therapy with me helps them feel empowered. I help people connect/reconnect with their resilience and heal through to wholeness. Additionally, my struggle to recover from several car accidents gave me profound insight into the challenges of healing mind and body. Change is stressful - even when it's something you want. Let me be your guide.
Are you suffering from PTSD, struggling with life transitions, or frustrated in your relationship(s)? Brainspotting (and EMDR) & EFT are powerful tools to free you to live the life you want without the baggage from the past. Clients say that therapy with me helps them feel empowered. I help people connect/reconnect with their resilience and heal through to wholeness. Additionally, my struggle to recover from several car accidents gave me profound insight into the challenges of healing mind and body. Change is stressful - even when it's something you want. Let me be your guide.
(303) 835-7042 View (303) 835-7042
Photo of Aaron Pomerantz in Jamestown, CO
Aaron Pomerantz
LMFT
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80304
With over 20 years of experience in the mental health field, I have found psychotherapy to be a powerful means to create lasting and meaningful change in lives. I consider myself to be an interactive, collaborative, and relational therapist and specialize in the treatment of individuals and couples. I am accepting new clients using telemedicine at this time. I am now in two offices, seeing Clients in Oregon and Colorado.
With over 20 years of experience in the mental health field, I have found psychotherapy to be a powerful means to create lasting and meaningful change in lives. I consider myself to be an interactive, collaborative, and relational therapist and specialize in the treatment of individuals and couples. I am accepting new clients using telemedicine at this time. I am now in two offices, seeing Clients in Oregon and Colorado.
(971) 319-9750 View (971) 319-9750
Photo of Jessica L Lewis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Jamestown, CO
Jessica L Lewis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302  (Online Only)
Transitions are, by their very nature, difficult. Adjusting to any life change requires continued growth, self-development and a balance between one's inner strength and external resources. I assist adults (as well as senior citizens) to create a meaningful existence in the social and environmental contexts of their lives. I use cognitive behavioral methods to help my clients successfully cope with a broad spectrum of stressors and personal life challenges related to major life events--career change, retirement, divorce or the death of a loved one.
Transitions are, by their very nature, difficult. Adjusting to any life change requires continued growth, self-development and a balance between one's inner strength and external resources. I assist adults (as well as senior citizens) to create a meaningful existence in the social and environmental contexts of their lives. I use cognitive behavioral methods to help my clients successfully cope with a broad spectrum of stressors and personal life challenges related to major life events--career change, retirement, divorce or the death of a loved one.
(720) 653-3003 View (720) 653-3003
Photo of Blake Helton (Now Accepting New Clients!), Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Jamestown, CO
Blake Helton (Now Accepting New Clients!)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80302
Schedule now through my website in my bio! Struggling to process real life? Maybe there is a barrier that is stopping you from your full potential? I strive to provide a person-centered approach to therapy. I believe that you as the individual are the expert in your own life. I aim to help others process their emotions and other difficulties that they may have going on in their life.
Schedule now through my website in my bio! Struggling to process real life? Maybe there is a barrier that is stopping you from your full potential? I strive to provide a person-centered approach to therapy. I believe that you as the individual are the expert in your own life. I aim to help others process their emotions and other difficulties that they may have going on in their life.
(303) 622-3461 View (303) 622-3461
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.