Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Gainesville, TX

Photo of Brittainy Wagner, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gainesville, TX
Brittainy Wagner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gainesville, TX 76240
I have over 7 years of experience working with a variety issues including Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, Couples Issues, Substance Abuse, and Personality Disorders. I utilize a combination of Cognitive Behavioral and Emotion Focused techniques. In our sessions you can expect to focus on areas of your life that aren't going as you planned. We will discuss your thoughts and feelings and together will be able to create meaningful, positive change in your life. You should contact me if you are prepared to develop a deeper insight into your life. I offer free consults &, have weekend & after hours appointments available.
I have over 7 years of experience working with a variety issues including Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, Couples Issues, Substance Abuse, and Personality Disorders. I utilize a combination of Cognitive Behavioral and Emotion Focused techniques. In our sessions you can expect to focus on areas of your life that aren't going as you planned. We will discuss your thoughts and feelings and together will be able to create meaningful, positive change in your life. You should contact me if you are prepared to develop a deeper insight into your life. I offer free consults &, have weekend & after hours appointments available.
(903) 662-3528 View (903) 662-3528
Photo of Izerial Toles, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gainesville, TX
Izerial Toles
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCDC, LPC
Verified Verified
Gainesville, TX 76240
Are you struggling with addiction, trauma, loss, grief, or anxiety/panic? Are you using unhealthy or ineffective coping strategies to get through your day? You want to do better but you just aren't sure where to start? I can help. I specialize in working with adults and teens, who find themselves no longer able to cope with life's stressors on their own. Whether it is grief & loss, work stress, relationship issues, trauma, alcohol use, depression or anxiety, I can help you get your life and relationships back on track.
Are you struggling with addiction, trauma, loss, grief, or anxiety/panic? Are you using unhealthy or ineffective coping strategies to get through your day? You want to do better but you just aren't sure where to start? I can help. I specialize in working with adults and teens, who find themselves no longer able to cope with life's stressors on their own. Whether it is grief & loss, work stress, relationship issues, trauma, alcohol use, depression or anxiety, I can help you get your life and relationships back on track.
(940) 209-1438 View (940) 209-1438
Photo of Taylor Klement, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gainesville, TX
Taylor Klement
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Gainesville, TX 76240
An individual’s life journey can sometimes lead them to walk “through the woods” with difficult, frightening, and sometimes painful experiences that may impact their present and future thoughts, emotions, behaviors, and interactions. Human nature is meant to thrive in relationships with others and not in isolation, which is why these situations can, at times, feel daunting and stressful to navigate on their own. I aspire to be a safe, guiding presence during the personal and unique challenges that life presents. Whether processing traumatic experiences, relationships, or daily challenges, I am here to help you meet your goals!
An individual’s life journey can sometimes lead them to walk “through the woods” with difficult, frightening, and sometimes painful experiences that may impact their present and future thoughts, emotions, behaviors, and interactions. Human nature is meant to thrive in relationships with others and not in isolation, which is why these situations can, at times, feel daunting and stressful to navigate on their own. I aspire to be a safe, guiding presence during the personal and unique challenges that life presents. Whether processing traumatic experiences, relationships, or daily challenges, I am here to help you meet your goals!
(940) 479-3746 View (940) 479-3746
Photo of Texoma Specialty Counseling in Gainesville, TX
Texoma Specialty Counseling
LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gainesville, TX 76240
Are you feeling dissatisfied, overwhelmed, and disgusting? You work hard and you are stressed and exhausted. You feel overwhelmed, anxious, angry, and sad. You work so hard to do what is right but something still feels off. The things you have tried to feel better just don't seem to be working. You are seeking help, support, guidance, and you want answers. You probably have it together, most of the time, and most people would say your life is not that bad. But what people don't know is you feel dissatisfied, overwhelmed, and not yourself. You are discontent and you are searching for a way to feel "good enough". It's not that you're unmotivated to make things better. Maybe you've done therapy in the past, or have tried yoga, dieting, and prayer. But you're not getting enough of what you need on your own, and you sense something better is possible.
Are you feeling dissatisfied, overwhelmed, and disgusting? You work hard and you are stressed and exhausted. You feel overwhelmed, anxious, angry, and sad. You work so hard to do what is right but something still feels off. The things you have tried to feel better just don't seem to be working. You are seeking help, support, guidance, and you want answers. You probably have it together, most of the time, and most people would say your life is not that bad. But what people don't know is you feel dissatisfied, overwhelmed, and not yourself. You are discontent and you are searching for a way to feel "good enough". It's not that you're unmotivated to make things better. Maybe you've done therapy in the past, or have tried yoga, dieting, and prayer. But you're not getting enough of what you need on your own, and you sense something better is possible.
(903) 636-7258 View (903) 636-7258
Photo of Adsum Counseling, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gainesville, TX
Adsum Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Gainesville, TX 76240
Not accepting new clients
I am committed to helping men, women, and children learn how to cope with anxiety or depression, learn healthier communication skills and boundaries, process and heal from traumatic events, and build healthier relationships within marriages or family units. My work focuses on targeting ineffective behaviors, habits, and beliefs around decision making, as well as reconnecting with personal interests impacted by depression, trauma, and anxiety symptoms.
I am committed to helping men, women, and children learn how to cope with anxiety or depression, learn healthier communication skills and boundaries, process and heal from traumatic events, and build healthier relationships within marriages or family units. My work focuses on targeting ineffective behaviors, habits, and beliefs around decision making, as well as reconnecting with personal interests impacted by depression, trauma, and anxiety symptoms.
(940) 326-5821 View (940) 326-5821

Online Therapists

Photo of Laurie Todd, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gainesville, TX
Laurie Todd
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75071
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor in the state of Texas. I graduated with a MS in Counseling from Southern Methodist University. Throughout my career I have had experience in working with clients who have depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, dissociative identity disorder, schizoaffective disorder, gender/identity struggles, life adjustment stressors, grief, phobias, and PTSD/trauma. I am trained to treat clients with PTSD and trauma through Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM).
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor in the state of Texas. I graduated with a MS in Counseling from Southern Methodist University. Throughout my career I have had experience in working with clients who have depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, dissociative identity disorder, schizoaffective disorder, gender/identity struggles, life adjustment stressors, grief, phobias, and PTSD/trauma. I am trained to treat clients with PTSD and trauma through Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM).
(702) 766-4674 View (702) 766-4674
Photo of Marcy S Conner, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gainesville, TX
Marcy S Conner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Keller, TX 76248
I work with individuals who want to understand the root cause of their struggles and address those issues with long-lasting strategies, helping you get closer to the life you've always wanted. My areas of expertise are primarily in work with clients struggling with trauma, PTSD, and complex trauma, anxiety, stress, marital/relationships, pre-marital, parenting, blended families, life transitions, depression, grief/loss, bipolar disorder, and women’s issues. I am with the belief that the relationship can be the catalyst for healing and growth as as well as an environment of safety and non-judgement.
I work with individuals who want to understand the root cause of their struggles and address those issues with long-lasting strategies, helping you get closer to the life you've always wanted. My areas of expertise are primarily in work with clients struggling with trauma, PTSD, and complex trauma, anxiety, stress, marital/relationships, pre-marital, parenting, blended families, life transitions, depression, grief/loss, bipolar disorder, and women’s issues. I am with the belief that the relationship can be the catalyst for healing and growth as as well as an environment of safety and non-judgement.
(817) 697-0741 View (817) 697-0741
Photo of Melissa A Gonzales, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gainesville, TX
Melissa A Gonzales
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MEd
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76244  (Online Only)
I offer a great skills set for adults that struggle with substance use, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder.
Hi my name is Melissa and I am a licensed professional counselor. My focus is to help others along their path to change, self reflection and healing.
I offer a great skills set for adults that struggle with substance use, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder.
Hi my name is Melissa and I am a licensed professional counselor. My focus is to help others along their path to change, self reflection and healing.
(832) 536-6676 View (832) 536-6676
Photo of Trish Borman, Psychologist in Gainesville, TX
Trish Borman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Addison, TX 75001
Areas of expertise include trauma/PTSD, anxiety, depression, bipolar, grief, end of life issues, general adult therapy, and chronic illness.
At times, life can be quite challenging and even painful. With specialties in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), I enjoy helping people to resolve struggles and issues like trauma/post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, grief, and other difficulties, to help them improve their health and well-being. I provide tangible coping strategies, skills, and problem solving. I promote growth by exploring and clarifying their needs, so that they can better meet their life's needs, and have more comfort and ease.
Areas of expertise include trauma/PTSD, anxiety, depression, bipolar, grief, end of life issues, general adult therapy, and chronic illness.
At times, life can be quite challenging and even painful. With specialties in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), I enjoy helping people to resolve struggles and issues like trauma/post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, grief, and other difficulties, to help them improve their health and well-being. I provide tangible coping strategies, skills, and problem solving. I promote growth by exploring and clarifying their needs, so that they can better meet their life's needs, and have more comfort and ease.
(469) 966-1530 View (469) 966-1530
Photo of De'An Olson Roper, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gainesville, TX
De'An Olson Roper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Richardson, TX 75081
I can help with relationships, coming out issues, family problems, addictions, depression, bipolar disorder, career changes, trauma and parenting concerns.
After 15+ years of practice and training other therapists, I have learned working with someone who “gets” you can be nurturing and healing. I believe this happens when the therapist brings their personal authenticity to your session, and research tells us this is one of the most critical elements in therapy. Listening deeply, asking the right questions, and providing honest and helpful feedback tailored to your personality are the other skills that complete the picture. It is my passion to help people to change painful patterns, to heal, to become whole, and to find their life’s joy and fulfillment.
I can help with relationships, coming out issues, family problems, addictions, depression, bipolar disorder, career changes, trauma and parenting concerns.
After 15+ years of practice and training other therapists, I have learned working with someone who “gets” you can be nurturing and healing. I believe this happens when the therapist brings their personal authenticity to your session, and research tells us this is one of the most critical elements in therapy. Listening deeply, asking the right questions, and providing honest and helpful feedback tailored to your personality are the other skills that complete the picture. It is my passion to help people to change painful patterns, to heal, to become whole, and to find their life’s joy and fulfillment.
(972) 996-7238 View (972) 996-7238
Photo of Caitlin Young, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gainesville, TX
Caitlin Young
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75204  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating adults and adolescents with anxiety, depression, life transitions, and PTSD. I also have experience working with Bipolar Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, personality disorders, and disordered eating. My therapeutic approach revolves around person-centered care and incorporates mindfulness techniques to help you develop resiliency and make empowering life decisions. I deeply empathize with your experiences and attentively listen to your concerns, creating a safe space for open communication and building trust.
I specialize in treating adults and adolescents with anxiety, depression, life transitions, and PTSD. I also have experience working with Bipolar Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, personality disorders, and disordered eating. My therapeutic approach revolves around person-centered care and incorporates mindfulness techniques to help you develop resiliency and make empowering life decisions. I deeply empathize with your experiences and attentively listen to your concerns, creating a safe space for open communication and building trust.
(512) 768-2731 View (512) 768-2731
Photo of Dr. Mary A. Patton, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gainesville, TX
Dr. Mary A. Patton, PhD, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75204
Thank you for your interest in my psychological services. My educational background includes a Masters degree in Professional Counseling, a Masters degree in Psychology, and a Doctorate (PhD) in Clinical Psychology. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Dallas,Texas with 15 years of experience practicing. I work with clients who are dealing with a wide range of concerns including Depression, Anxiety/Panic, Schizophrenia, OCD, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Personality Disorders, family of origin concerns & exploration, & many other psychological & behavioral challenges.
Thank you for your interest in my psychological services. My educational background includes a Masters degree in Professional Counseling, a Masters degree in Psychology, and a Doctorate (PhD) in Clinical Psychology. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Dallas,Texas with 15 years of experience practicing. I work with clients who are dealing with a wide range of concerns including Depression, Anxiety/Panic, Schizophrenia, OCD, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Personality Disorders, family of origin concerns & exploration, & many other psychological & behavioral challenges.
(469) 296-3109 View (469) 296-3109
Photo of Mindy Mauldin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gainesville, TX
Mindy Mauldin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Richland Hills, TX 76180
I have experience working with a wide array of clients. I commonly treat clients with depression, anxiety, and ADHD. I also have quite a bit of experience with clients who have lost someone dear to them, and are trying to find a way though that grief. In addition to those areas, I also treat a number of other issues not yet mentioned, such as bipolar disorder, OCD, problems in interpersonal relationships, stress management, career-related concerns, trauma, and more.
I have experience working with a wide array of clients. I commonly treat clients with depression, anxiety, and ADHD. I also have quite a bit of experience with clients who have lost someone dear to them, and are trying to find a way though that grief. In addition to those areas, I also treat a number of other issues not yet mentioned, such as bipolar disorder, OCD, problems in interpersonal relationships, stress management, career-related concerns, trauma, and more.
(817) 383-8726 View (817) 383-8726
Photo of Kristina McCray, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gainesville, TX
Kristina McCray
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Arlington, TX 76006
Kristina McCray, M.S., LSSP, LPC is a School Psychologist and a Licensed Professional Counselor for the state of Texas. She has experience with working with people of all ages, cultures, and backgrounds on a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, OCD, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, Autism Spectrum Disorder, personality disorders, substance addiction, identity problems, self-esteem problems, intellectual disabilities, and ADHD. She has experience in working with families, couples, individuals, and groups.
Kristina McCray, M.S., LSSP, LPC is a School Psychologist and a Licensed Professional Counselor for the state of Texas. She has experience with working with people of all ages, cultures, and backgrounds on a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, OCD, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, Autism Spectrum Disorder, personality disorders, substance addiction, identity problems, self-esteem problems, intellectual disabilities, and ADHD. She has experience in working with families, couples, individuals, and groups.
(512) 866-5794 View (512) 866-5794
Photo of Nicke Briggs, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gainesville, TX
Nicke Briggs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76120  (Online Only)
Hi Im Nicke. Welcome to 2024! I hope we neet this year to better yourself. I aim to make therapy feel like a familiar conversation; one you can look forward to each time! Any personality disorders or history of bipolar? Lets dive in. Do you find yourself unhappy, depressed, anxious, or feeling like your ready to give up? Are you thinking of divorce or other relationship issues? Substance abuse? Career whoas? The issues that have placed you and your wellbeing at a crossroad can be helped. I am here to help overcome those pits in life. My therapy style is like an old friend, the one you tell secrets to and never feel judged.
Hi Im Nicke. Welcome to 2024! I hope we neet this year to better yourself. I aim to make therapy feel like a familiar conversation; one you can look forward to each time! Any personality disorders or history of bipolar? Lets dive in. Do you find yourself unhappy, depressed, anxious, or feeling like your ready to give up? Are you thinking of divorce or other relationship issues? Substance abuse? Career whoas? The issues that have placed you and your wellbeing at a crossroad can be helped. I am here to help overcome those pits in life. My therapy style is like an old friend, the one you tell secrets to and never feel judged.
(832) 979-8699 View (832) 979-8699
Photo of Sophia Worth, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gainesville, TX
Sophia Worth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mansfield, TX 76063
I was a medical social worker for a psychiatric hospital for over four years, running group therapy and completing biopsychosocial assessments. I have also supported clients with end-stage renal disease for over five years. I work with those struggling with fertility, postpartum anxiety, and postpartum depression. My specialties include anxiety, depression, postpartum anxiety, postpartum depression, bipolar disorder I and II, borderline personality disorder, chemical dependency, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. My top modalities include cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and more.
I was a medical social worker for a psychiatric hospital for over four years, running group therapy and completing biopsychosocial assessments. I have also supported clients with end-stage renal disease for over five years. I work with those struggling with fertility, postpartum anxiety, and postpartum depression. My specialties include anxiety, depression, postpartum anxiety, postpartum depression, bipolar disorder I and II, borderline personality disorder, chemical dependency, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. My top modalities include cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and more.
(469) 353-6817 View (469) 353-6817
Photo of Donna Christine Abbott, Psychologist in Gainesville, TX
Donna Christine Abbott
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Southlake, TX 76092
My specialities include: depression, anxiety, marital/relationship issues, parenting, infertility, bipolar disorder, obsessive/compulsive disorders, and obesity.
Are you dissatisfied with how your personal or work life is going? Do you find that you feel down or anxious more often than you believe you should? I help clients discover what might be holding them back in their personal or work lives. Then, most importantly, help them learn new life skills which empower them to change old behaviors and thoughts. I am a licensed, doctoral-level psychologist with 30+ years of experience. I have been married 31 years and have two daughters. I have described as kind, empathic, and nonjudgmental.
My specialities include: depression, anxiety, marital/relationship issues, parenting, infertility, bipolar disorder, obsessive/compulsive disorders, and obesity.
Are you dissatisfied with how your personal or work life is going? Do you find that you feel down or anxious more often than you believe you should? I help clients discover what might be holding them back in their personal or work lives. Then, most importantly, help them learn new life skills which empower them to change old behaviors and thoughts. I am a licensed, doctoral-level psychologist with 30+ years of experience. I have been married 31 years and have two daughters. I have described as kind, empathic, and nonjudgmental.
(972) 290-1075 View (972) 290-1075
Photo of Nadia T. Hasan, Psychologist in Gainesville, TX
Nadia T. Hasan
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75069  (Online Only)
Sometimes life can be challenging, and you need support from an expert to help you feel better. I can help you recover from depression, bipolar disorder, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, OCD, panic disorders, grief/ loss, trauma, low self-esteem, academic stress, social identity concerns (racial, ethnic, sexual), interpersonal issues, relationship problems, and family concerns. I also provide psychological assessments and evaluations to diagnose learning disabilities, ADHD, disability, and PTSD.
Sometimes life can be challenging, and you need support from an expert to help you feel better. I can help you recover from depression, bipolar disorder, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, OCD, panic disorders, grief/ loss, trauma, low self-esteem, academic stress, social identity concerns (racial, ethnic, sexual), interpersonal issues, relationship problems, and family concerns. I also provide psychological assessments and evaluations to diagnose learning disabilities, ADHD, disability, and PTSD.
(361) 336-0766 View (361) 336-0766
Photo of Mathias Ngwa, Psychological Associate in Gainesville, TX
Mathias Ngwa
Psychological Associate, PsyD, ABSNP, LPA, ICP
Verified Verified
Arlington, TX 76006
At home video-tele-assessment for anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, psychotic and personality.
Are you looking for a psychological/neuropsychological evaluation and/or a medication free treatment for attention, sleep, migraine, anxiety, depression, stress, PTSD, headache, or traumatic brain injury problems? Are you a struggling learner seeking ways to improve performance at school, sports or work? Do you have a history of autism spectrum, ADD/ADHD, fetal alcohol syndrome, language and communication problems, Down’s Syndrome, epilepsy, traumatic brain injury, concussion, stroke, memory difficulties, chronic illness, motor and balance coordination, developmental delay, Parkinson’s, or multiple sclerosis?
At home video-tele-assessment for anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, psychotic and personality.
Are you looking for a psychological/neuropsychological evaluation and/or a medication free treatment for attention, sleep, migraine, anxiety, depression, stress, PTSD, headache, or traumatic brain injury problems? Are you a struggling learner seeking ways to improve performance at school, sports or work? Do you have a history of autism spectrum, ADD/ADHD, fetal alcohol syndrome, language and communication problems, Down’s Syndrome, epilepsy, traumatic brain injury, concussion, stroke, memory difficulties, chronic illness, motor and balance coordination, developmental delay, Parkinson’s, or multiple sclerosis?
(682) 204-6546 View (682) 204-6546
Photo of Christopher Keener, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gainesville, TX
Christopher Keener
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, LCDC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75204
I specialize in the treatment of teens and adults facing challenges such as depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and addiction. My priority is creating a safe and supportive environment where clients feel empowered to explore their challenges and work towards positive change.
I specialize in the treatment of teens and adults facing challenges such as depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and addiction. My priority is creating a safe and supportive environment where clients feel empowered to explore their challenges and work towards positive change.
(214) 256-1184 View (214) 256-1184

See more therapy options for Gainesville

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.