Photo of Lauree Quada, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lauree Quada
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Battle Creek, MI 49015
Does life have you running in circles? Are you wondering if things will ever change? Have you tried to make changes but you are not getting the results that you would like to see? There is hope. I provide a safe environment to explore the areas that you may be having difficulty with. What you believe about yourself, others, and the world around you have an impact on relationships and life choices. I am passionate about helping you to grow, heal from life's hurts and become the person you are meant to be. My approach to treatment is holistic, assessing and treating issues from mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual perspectives.
Does life have you running in circles? Are you wondering if things will ever change? Have you tried to make changes but you are not getting the results that you would like to see? There is hope. I provide a safe environment to explore the areas that you may be having difficulty with. What you believe about yourself, others, and the world around you have an impact on relationships and life choices. I am passionate about helping you to grow, heal from life's hurts and become the person you are meant to be. My approach to treatment is holistic, assessing and treating issues from mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual perspectives.
(269) 409-5573 View (269) 409-5573
Photo of Terri Ratliff, PhD, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Terri Ratliff
Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Battle Creek, MI 49015  (Online Only)
Life can change in a flash. Transitions are not always expected. Job loss, chronic illness, death of a loved one, a pandemic - not to mention those we do plan, such as moving, empty nest, retirement, and others. We often try to avoid transitions because change can be hard. Even a positive change can cause feelings of loss, anxiety, overwhelmed and often leads to anxiety or depression. The good news is those suffering from emotional instability, a trauma & loss, or other mental health illnesses can learn new tools and skills to maneuver their way to a new calm and peace.
Life can change in a flash. Transitions are not always expected. Job loss, chronic illness, death of a loved one, a pandemic - not to mention those we do plan, such as moving, empty nest, retirement, and others. We often try to avoid transitions because change can be hard. Even a positive change can cause feelings of loss, anxiety, overwhelmed and often leads to anxiety or depression. The good news is those suffering from emotional instability, a trauma & loss, or other mental health illnesses can learn new tools and skills to maneuver their way to a new calm and peace.
(800) 693-1916 View (800) 693-1916

Online Therapists

Photo of Joy Michele Mulrath, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joy Michele Mulrath
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Pinckney, MI 48169  (Online Only)
I have been a clinician for 20 years, focusing on Individual's and families struggling with several different mental health struggles and vulnerabilities. I have developed a strong skills set over the years in treating Depression, Bipolar illness, Substance Use Disorders, PTSD/ CPTSD and Anxiety in a variety of treatment episodes and levels of care. I now seek to use these compiled skills to offer help and support to those who suffer from any of these issues, as well as now offering specialty care for those struggling with Eating Disorders.
I have been a clinician for 20 years, focusing on Individual's and families struggling with several different mental health struggles and vulnerabilities. I have developed a strong skills set over the years in treating Depression, Bipolar illness, Substance Use Disorders, PTSD/ CPTSD and Anxiety in a variety of treatment episodes and levels of care. I now seek to use these compiled skills to offer help and support to those who suffer from any of these issues, as well as now offering specialty care for those struggling with Eating Disorders.
(734) 349-1027 View (734) 349-1027
Photo of Sarah Ann Woodward, LMSW , C-DBT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Ann Woodward
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW , C-DBT
Verified Verified
Monroe, MI 48162  (Online Only)
Sarah Woodward LMSW is a 2017 graduate from the University of Toledo. She holds a Masters's Degree in Social Work and has been working with individuals who have been diagnosed with severe and persistent mental illness for the past 6 years. Specializing in DBT Sarah has experience in working with individuals who have anxiety, depression, borderline personality disorder, and bipolar disorder. In regards to her therapeutic approach: "I believe that the most beneficial part of the therapeutic process is the therapeutic relationship, I practice from a person-centered perspective, we are all unique and so I tailor my therapeutic approa
Sarah Woodward LMSW is a 2017 graduate from the University of Toledo. She holds a Masters's Degree in Social Work and has been working with individuals who have been diagnosed with severe and persistent mental illness for the past 6 years. Specializing in DBT Sarah has experience in working with individuals who have anxiety, depression, borderline personality disorder, and bipolar disorder. In regards to her therapeutic approach: "I believe that the most beneficial part of the therapeutic process is the therapeutic relationship, I practice from a person-centered perspective, we are all unique and so I tailor my therapeutic approa
(734) 530-3437 View (734) 530-3437
Photo of undefined - Lifepoint Counseling, PhD, LP, LPC, Psychologist
Lifepoint Counseling
Psychologist, PhD, LP, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lansing, MI 48911
As a compassionate therapist, I specialize in grief, PTSD, anxiety, bipolar disorders, sleep disorders, and occupational burnout. With a Ph.D. in psychology, I have expertise in anxiety, PTSD, depression, relationship problems, and sleep disorders. I am fluent in American Sign Language, providing direct therapy to Deaf and Hard of Hearing populations. Choose me as your therapist for personalized support in overcoming challenges and fostering resilience.
As a compassionate therapist, I specialize in grief, PTSD, anxiety, bipolar disorders, sleep disorders, and occupational burnout. With a Ph.D. in psychology, I have expertise in anxiety, PTSD, depression, relationship problems, and sleep disorders. I am fluent in American Sign Language, providing direct therapy to Deaf and Hard of Hearing populations. Choose me as your therapist for personalized support in overcoming challenges and fostering resilience.
(517) 201-2942 View (517) 201-2942
Photo of Edward G Furst, LPC, LMFT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Edward G Furst
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Farmington Hills, MI 48331  (Online Only)
Ed treats anxiety, PTSD, depression, bipolar, troubled relationships, Narcissistic Personality Disorder and abuse, couples, parent/child conflicts, addiction, grief, Bipolar, Life Adjustments, ADD, OCD, self-esteem, and dreams.
Ed's diverse background provides a rich blend of experience to his clients. He is dual licensed as a Professional Counselor and Marriage & Family Therapist. He is an expert with youth, families, and individuals, and a Clinical Supervisor/Mentor for inpatient care. Edward has counseled clients for 32 years as a Therapist, Sports Psychology Consultant (coaches/athletes), and Life Balance/Career Coach. He gladly sees people from all faiths and walks of life and provides wisdom for anyone who seeks it: individuals, families, youth, couples, parents, pastors, professionals, athletes, coaches, and performing artists.
Ed treats anxiety, PTSD, depression, bipolar, troubled relationships, Narcissistic Personality Disorder and abuse, couples, parent/child conflicts, addiction, grief, Bipolar, Life Adjustments, ADD, OCD, self-esteem, and dreams.
Ed's diverse background provides a rich blend of experience to his clients. He is dual licensed as a Professional Counselor and Marriage & Family Therapist. He is an expert with youth, families, and individuals, and a Clinical Supervisor/Mentor for inpatient care. Edward has counseled clients for 32 years as a Therapist, Sports Psychology Consultant (coaches/athletes), and Life Balance/Career Coach. He gladly sees people from all faiths and walks of life and provides wisdom for anyone who seeks it: individuals, families, youth, couples, parents, pastors, professionals, athletes, coaches, and performing artists.
(248) 988-9294 x49916 View (248) 988-9294 x49916
Photo of Lynn Frances Cartwright, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lynn Frances Cartwright
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48103  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating patients with Bipolar D/O, Major Depressive Disorder and Generalized Anxiety Disorders.
I have experience with treating clients with a variety of diagnoses including Depression, Anxiety Disorder, Bi-polar Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Sexuality Issues, Transgender issues, Substance Abuse, Psychosis, Behavioral and Parenting Issues. I've worked in the Behavioral Health Unit of a local hospital for the past several years and have practiced in clinics in urban and rural areas. I have seen clients from a variety of educational backgrounds including higher education such as teachers and professors. At this time, I am seeing patients by telehealth only.
I specialize in treating patients with Bipolar D/O, Major Depressive Disorder and Generalized Anxiety Disorders.
I have experience with treating clients with a variety of diagnoses including Depression, Anxiety Disorder, Bi-polar Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Sexuality Issues, Transgender issues, Substance Abuse, Psychosis, Behavioral and Parenting Issues. I've worked in the Behavioral Health Unit of a local hospital for the past several years and have practiced in clinics in urban and rural areas. I have seen clients from a variety of educational backgrounds including higher education such as teachers and professors. At this time, I am seeing patients by telehealth only.
(734) 436-3340 View (734) 436-3340
Photo of Leonard Uchendu, L, M, S, W, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leonard Uchendu
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, L, M, S, W
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mason, MI 48854  (Online Only)
I am specialized in Sex Addiction, Substance Use Disorder, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, impulsiveness, chronic pain, trauma, Grief and Loss issues, Bipolar Disorder and Borderline Personality disorder, relationship conflicts etc.
I understand the daunting task of seeking help. I commend you for your courage to reach out to me for help. You desire therapy because you may be experiencing the following problems: Trauma, Depression,Anxiety, Addiction, Grief and Loss, Chronic Pain, suicide/self-injurious behaviors, interpersonal conflicts and othe psychological difficulties. Certainly, you would like to get to the bottom of your feelings, gain insights, deepen sense of self and self-integration. My therapy room will provide you a safe space to be yourself. I will meet you where you with zero judgment, empathetic ear and evidence based practice.
I am specialized in Sex Addiction, Substance Use Disorder, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, impulsiveness, chronic pain, trauma, Grief and Loss issues, Bipolar Disorder and Borderline Personality disorder, relationship conflicts etc.
I understand the daunting task of seeking help. I commend you for your courage to reach out to me for help. You desire therapy because you may be experiencing the following problems: Trauma, Depression,Anxiety, Addiction, Grief and Loss, Chronic Pain, suicide/self-injurious behaviors, interpersonal conflicts and othe psychological difficulties. Certainly, you would like to get to the bottom of your feelings, gain insights, deepen sense of self and self-integration. My therapy room will provide you a safe space to be yourself. I will meet you where you with zero judgment, empathetic ear and evidence based practice.
(517) 684-2907 View (517) 684-2907
Photo of Jennifer W Kates, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer W Kates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Holland, MI 49423
Waitlist for new clients
I have worked as a Hospice Social Worker, an outpatient therapist for Pine Rest, and as a therapist treating adults with major mental health disorders with two Community Mental Health organizations. I have experience treating a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, sleep issues, compulsive behaviors, bipolar disorder, relationship and marital issues, grief and loss, domestic violence, stress, post-traumatic stress, trauma, anger management, and women's issues. I currently have immediate openings and no waiting list.
I have worked as a Hospice Social Worker, an outpatient therapist for Pine Rest, and as a therapist treating adults with major mental health disorders with two Community Mental Health organizations. I have experience treating a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, sleep issues, compulsive behaviors, bipolar disorder, relationship and marital issues, grief and loss, domestic violence, stress, post-traumatic stress, trauma, anger management, and women's issues. I currently have immediate openings and no waiting list.
(616) 499-6087 View (616) 499-6087
Photo of Rebecca Walker, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rebecca Walker
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Clarkston, MI 48348  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over a decade of clinical experience. I work with people of all ages. If you are struggling to manage your feelings of anxiety and depression I can help. I have experience treating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, and relationships issues. I have specialized in the treatment of children with ADHD, trauma, and relationship problems. I am confident in my ability to help you learn appropriate coping mechanisms to improve wellbeing. My approach is authentic and nurturing. I utilize different evidence based therapies to help clients achieve their goals.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over a decade of clinical experience. I work with people of all ages. If you are struggling to manage your feelings of anxiety and depression I can help. I have experience treating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, and relationships issues. I have specialized in the treatment of children with ADHD, trauma, and relationship problems. I am confident in my ability to help you learn appropriate coping mechanisms to improve wellbeing. My approach is authentic and nurturing. I utilize different evidence based therapies to help clients achieve their goals.
(248) 260-4108 View (248) 260-4108
Photo of Amy Mills, MA, LLPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amy Mills
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LLPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lansing, MI 48933
Do you experience pent-up trauma, constant worry, or sadness? Perhaps you see your child struggle to understand their emotions. My passion is to work with you to restore your emotional well-being and overcome challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, or relationship issues. Call today to see if we would be a good fit.
Do you experience pent-up trauma, constant worry, or sadness? Perhaps you see your child struggle to understand their emotions. My passion is to work with you to restore your emotional well-being and overcome challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, or relationship issues. Call today to see if we would be a good fit.
(517) 929-8153 View (517) 929-8153
Photo of Shirley L. Neal, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shirley L. Neal
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lansing, MI 48906
There are times in our lives when problems can feel overwhelming, painful, and difficult to face alone. Relying on friends and family may not be a viable option. During our sessions, you can expect me to hear and understand your experiences & provide a safe place for you to express your thoughts, feelings, & behaviors that arise in and outside of therapy. If needed, you can also expect me to work with you on current issues as related to your past issues. Whether it's a challenging situation, or a change in life direction, I look forward to establishing a helpful, collaborative relationship with you to achieve your therapy goals.
There are times in our lives when problems can feel overwhelming, painful, and difficult to face alone. Relying on friends and family may not be a viable option. During our sessions, you can expect me to hear and understand your experiences & provide a safe place for you to express your thoughts, feelings, & behaviors that arise in and outside of therapy. If needed, you can also expect me to work with you on current issues as related to your past issues. Whether it's a challenging situation, or a change in life direction, I look forward to establishing a helpful, collaborative relationship with you to achieve your therapy goals.
(517) 459-9404 View (517) 459-9404
Photo of Jacqueline Rafter, LMSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jacqueline Rafter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Berrien Springs, MI 49103  (Online Only)
Relationship Trauma? I primarily work with clients who have concerns of past childhood trauma, relationship trauma, and religious trauma, which often cause struggles of depression, anxiety, toxic relationships, or relationship struggles, parenting problems, people pleasing, anger management difficulties, career challenges and adjusting to major life changes. I am non-judgmental, direct, and empowering in my counseling style. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion.
Relationship Trauma? I primarily work with clients who have concerns of past childhood trauma, relationship trauma, and religious trauma, which often cause struggles of depression, anxiety, toxic relationships, or relationship struggles, parenting problems, people pleasing, anger management difficulties, career challenges and adjusting to major life changes. I am non-judgmental, direct, and empowering in my counseling style. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion.
(269) 215-5724 View (269) 215-5724
Photo of Priscilla Cortez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Priscilla Cortez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48104  (Online Only)
Maybe you've been thinking of trying therapy for a while, or have almost given up that it could work for you. I'd love to help you see the beauty in accepting that, as in life, it’s okay to not "get it right" the first time. I enjoy reactivating hope in people to see the potential in themselves and in others. You don't have to try making changes on your own.
Maybe you've been thinking of trying therapy for a while, or have almost given up that it could work for you. I'd love to help you see the beauty in accepting that, as in life, it’s okay to not "get it right" the first time. I enjoy reactivating hope in people to see the potential in themselves and in others. You don't have to try making changes on your own.
(734) 857-7520 View (734) 857-7520
Photo of Lisa Benavides, MA, LPC, CAADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lisa Benavides
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CAADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Holland, MI 49423
For over 20 years I have been involved in the mental health system and have had the privilege of helping individuals & families achieve their goals and overcome a variety of challenges (i.e. depression, anxiety, mood disorders, new transitions, relational, & substance abuse struggles). While speaking both English & Spanish languages, my hope is that each individual that I encounter will gain a better understanding of themselves, and also learn valuable skills to move forward towards a more fulfilling and flourishing life---to be able to find 'Peace of Mind'--within themselves and within their surroundings.
For over 20 years I have been involved in the mental health system and have had the privilege of helping individuals & families achieve their goals and overcome a variety of challenges (i.e. depression, anxiety, mood disorders, new transitions, relational, & substance abuse struggles). While speaking both English & Spanish languages, my hope is that each individual that I encounter will gain a better understanding of themselves, and also learn valuable skills to move forward towards a more fulfilling and flourishing life---to be able to find 'Peace of Mind'--within themselves and within their surroundings.
(616) 205-9759 View (616) 205-9759
Photo of Anna Bagnall, MA, LLC, Counselor
Anna Bagnall
Counselor, MA, LLC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Livonia, MI 48152
Empathy, authenticity, unconditional support, and respect are the cornerstone values that shape my practice. It's important to me that you have a space where you feel safe, valued, and empowered to the make the decisions that feel right to you. I believe each of us possesses an innate inner strength capable of overcoming any obstacle and changing any circumstance - sometimes we just need a little extra support and a fresh perspective. Together we can chart a path forward that will lead you towards emerging from these challenges stronger and wiser than ever.
Empathy, authenticity, unconditional support, and respect are the cornerstone values that shape my practice. It's important to me that you have a space where you feel safe, valued, and empowered to the make the decisions that feel right to you. I believe each of us possesses an innate inner strength capable of overcoming any obstacle and changing any circumstance - sometimes we just need a little extra support and a fresh perspective. Together we can chart a path forward that will lead you towards emerging from these challenges stronger and wiser than ever.
(734) 822-6940 View (734) 822-6940
Photo of undefined - Koinonia Counseling Center, PLLC., LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Koinonia Counseling Center, PLLC.
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wyoming, MI 49519
Waitlist for new clients
KCC clinicians specialize in trauma and work from a trauma-informed platform. What this means is that we treat various mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and substance use from the idea that trauma has affected the individual’s overall mental health. We also treat Dissociative Disorders, are rainbow allies and seek to provide a nurturing, empathetic environment for our clients. We also enthusiastically celebrate all diversity and have specific skills and experience in relation to working with the disabled minority. We currently have a waitlist for Dissociative Disorder treatment needs. Email communication preferred.
KCC clinicians specialize in trauma and work from a trauma-informed platform. What this means is that we treat various mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and substance use from the idea that trauma has affected the individual’s overall mental health. We also treat Dissociative Disorders, are rainbow allies and seek to provide a nurturing, empathetic environment for our clients. We also enthusiastically celebrate all diversity and have specific skills and experience in relation to working with the disabled minority. We currently have a waitlist for Dissociative Disorder treatment needs. Email communication preferred.
(616) 369-8594 View (616) 369-8594
Photo of undefined - Therapeia PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Therapeia PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48103
You are courageously looking to heal and overcome what you are going through and you want to feel understood and cared for. You need someone that really gets what you are going through and will always be on your side. Your trust and comfort are our first priority. You may feel like a mess right now but you are never as strong and brave as when you reach out and ask for help. Find an expert in trauma recovery, sexuality, mood disorders, and ADHD and get better fast. We will get you in within 1 week for appointment.
You are courageously looking to heal and overcome what you are going through and you want to feel understood and cared for. You need someone that really gets what you are going through and will always be on your side. Your trust and comfort are our first priority. You may feel like a mess right now but you are never as strong and brave as when you reach out and ask for help. Find an expert in trauma recovery, sexuality, mood disorders, and ADHD and get better fast. We will get you in within 1 week for appointment.
(248) 712-1781 View (248) 712-1781
Photo of undefined - Restore Therapy Collective, PhD, LMFT, EMDR, LPC, PMH-C, Marriage & Family Therapist
Restore Therapy Collective
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, EMDR, LPC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
4/3/24 Updated Availability: Accepting New Clients! Telehealth & In-person. We work with couples, adults and teen clients in Michigan who feel that things are out of control. We know how difficult it can be to ask for help and try to instill hope and specific, creative strategies for change in a relaxed environment. Our therapists at Restore Therapy Collective help develop goals and sort out thoughts and challenges that get in the way.
4/3/24 Updated Availability: Accepting New Clients! Telehealth & In-person. We work with couples, adults and teen clients in Michigan who feel that things are out of control. We know how difficult it can be to ask for help and try to instill hope and specific, creative strategies for change in a relaxed environment. Our therapists at Restore Therapy Collective help develop goals and sort out thoughts and challenges that get in the way.
(616) 228-9244 View (616) 228-9244
Photo of undefined - Azalea Therapy & Consultation Services, LMSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Azalea Therapy & Consultation Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW-C
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Canton, MI 48187
Life has a way of overwhelming us at times. It can be helpful to have someone to share those struggles with - someone who will be with you as you process the struggles & celebrate your growth and healing. At Azalea, we value the opportunity to walk alongside you while you make your own way through life's journey. We believe in holistic care, looking at individual strengths, backgrounds, and beliefs that empower you to become the best version of yourself - connected and authentic in your engagement with the world around you.
Life has a way of overwhelming us at times. It can be helpful to have someone to share those struggles with - someone who will be with you as you process the struggles & celebrate your growth and healing. At Azalea, we value the opportunity to walk alongside you while you make your own way through life's journey. We believe in holistic care, looking at individual strengths, backgrounds, and beliefs that empower you to become the best version of yourself - connected and authentic in your engagement with the world around you.
(313) 986-4374 View (313) 986-4374

See more therapy options for Battle Creek

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.