Photo of Jenny Prewtt, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jenny Prewtt
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Bon Air, VA 23235  (Online Only)
My clinical specialties include: Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, anger management, mild eating disorder and grief and loss.
It is my belief that many people not only experience stress and anxiety by unfortunate adversities, but also by how they construct their views of reality through the stories they tell themselves regarding the stressful incident. While systematically pulling from different counseling techniques from a wide range of theories, she tends to work most heavily from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness techniques and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. These types of therapies help overcome irrational, dysfunctional, and unhealthy thought process that tend to add to and prolong emotional strain, trauma, and tension.
My clinical specialties include: Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, anger management, mild eating disorder and grief and loss.
It is my belief that many people not only experience stress and anxiety by unfortunate adversities, but also by how they construct their views of reality through the stories they tell themselves regarding the stressful incident. While systematically pulling from different counseling techniques from a wide range of theories, she tends to work most heavily from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness techniques and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. These types of therapies help overcome irrational, dysfunctional, and unhealthy thought process that tend to add to and prolong emotional strain, trauma, and tension.
(804) 792-3426 View (804) 792-3426
Photo of Bridget Kanz, CP, Psychologist
Bridget Kanz
Psychologist, CP
Verified Verified
Bon Air, VA 23235
My name is Bridget Kanz and I am a licensed clinical psychologist. I believe that every person has the desire and capacity to live a full and healthy life. My goal as a therapist is to provide you with the support and skills needed to realize your potential. I have worked with a wide variety of clients throughout my career and am very comfortable treating many conditions including anxiety/panic, PTSD, bipolar, schizophrenia, schizoaffective, substance use, personality disorders, and depression.
My name is Bridget Kanz and I am a licensed clinical psychologist. I believe that every person has the desire and capacity to live a full and healthy life. My goal as a therapist is to provide you with the support and skills needed to realize your potential. I have worked with a wide variety of clients throughout my career and am very comfortable treating many conditions including anxiety/panic, PTSD, bipolar, schizophrenia, schizoaffective, substance use, personality disorders, and depression.
(804) 361-8439 View (804) 361-8439
Photo of Shannon Talley, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shannon Talley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Bon Air, VA 23235
I have specialty experience with the treatment and management of Bipolar disorder, Schizoaffective, and Schizophrenia.
Have you ever heard someone tell you "Just get over it!"? When someone is struggling with a major life change, grief, or health challenge, this is not acceptable! Let's talk about your story, your journey, and your destination. My goal is for you to leave your appointment with a feeling of validation and direction. I love when my clients realize that they are capable and start reaching their goals. Partnering with me means that you will always have someone who is willing to walk alongside you in moments when you are feeling a little bit lost or alone. My passion is to see you find your direction and live your life to the fullest.
I have specialty experience with the treatment and management of Bipolar disorder, Schizoaffective, and Schizophrenia.
Have you ever heard someone tell you "Just get over it!"? When someone is struggling with a major life change, grief, or health challenge, this is not acceptable! Let's talk about your story, your journey, and your destination. My goal is for you to leave your appointment with a feeling of validation and direction. I love when my clients realize that they are capable and start reaching their goals. Partnering with me means that you will always have someone who is willing to walk alongside you in moments when you are feeling a little bit lost or alone. My passion is to see you find your direction and live your life to the fullest.
(804) 395-6123 View (804) 395-6123
Photo of Joanna Smith, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Joanna Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bon Air, VA 23235  (Online Only)
Hi, my name is Joanna. I am available to meet with you via TeleHealth. I have a friendly and welcoming laid-back approach. I am nonjudgmental, compassionate and supportive. If you feel disconnected from your authentic self, I can help you find your way home. We will work together to find freedom from unhelpful thoughts and unsupportive behavior patterns. I am trauma-informed and trained. I also have specialized training in recovering from unhealthy and emotionally immature relationships. I can teach you more about your mind, body and emotions but you are the expert and I would be honored to be a fellow traveler on this life journey.
Hi, my name is Joanna. I am available to meet with you via TeleHealth. I have a friendly and welcoming laid-back approach. I am nonjudgmental, compassionate and supportive. If you feel disconnected from your authentic self, I can help you find your way home. We will work together to find freedom from unhelpful thoughts and unsupportive behavior patterns. I am trauma-informed and trained. I also have specialized training in recovering from unhealthy and emotionally immature relationships. I can teach you more about your mind, body and emotions but you are the expert and I would be honored to be a fellow traveler on this life journey.
(804) 336-2646 View (804) 336-2646
Photo of Muriel Azria-Evans, PhD, CRC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Muriel Azria-Evans
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, CRC, LPC
Verified Verified
Bon Air, VA 23235
If even a small part of you believes things could be better for yourself or in your relationship, reach out and contact me so we can work side-by-side to meet your personal goals. Counseling benefits arise when clients and counselors share their unique insights towards a common goal. You offer your expert knowledge on yourself, while I offer my knowledge on trauma, anxiety, depression, and relationships.
If even a small part of you believes things could be better for yourself or in your relationship, reach out and contact me so we can work side-by-side to meet your personal goals. Counseling benefits arise when clients and counselors share their unique insights towards a common goal. You offer your expert knowledge on yourself, while I offer my knowledge on trauma, anxiety, depression, and relationships.
(804) 463-6341 View (804) 463-6341
Photo of Jorden Anne Elliott, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jorden Anne Elliott
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bon Air, VA 23235
Have you ever found yourself second guessing every decision you make or feeling as if your life is spinning out of control? Starting your journey of healing can be scary, and I understand that. Whether you are feeling stagnant in your current circumstances or are experiencing fear, depression, anxiety, or traumatic experiences, remember hope was left in Pandora's box for us to hold tightly and to foster resiliency. I am a licensed professional counselor am I am here to walk with you through your journey of healing while you rediscover your hope while building resiliency. My practice is strengths based.
Have you ever found yourself second guessing every decision you make or feeling as if your life is spinning out of control? Starting your journey of healing can be scary, and I understand that. Whether you are feeling stagnant in your current circumstances or are experiencing fear, depression, anxiety, or traumatic experiences, remember hope was left in Pandora's box for us to hold tightly and to foster resiliency. I am a licensed professional counselor am I am here to walk with you through your journey of healing while you rediscover your hope while building resiliency. My practice is strengths based.
(804) 375-5870 View (804) 375-5870
Photo of Paula Cooks, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Paula Cooks
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Bon Air, VA 23235
I am Dr. Paula Cooks; I am a Christian that believes in the holistic approach to managing the mental health needs of my clients. I use humanistic and existential therapeutic modalities. I believe that the individual, couple, or family has the unconscious resolution to aid in returning to homeostasis. My focus is on managing and improving the mental health status of individuals, families, and couples seeking relief from environmental, situational, and life stressors.
I am Dr. Paula Cooks; I am a Christian that believes in the holistic approach to managing the mental health needs of my clients. I use humanistic and existential therapeutic modalities. I believe that the individual, couple, or family has the unconscious resolution to aid in returning to homeostasis. My focus is on managing and improving the mental health status of individuals, families, and couples seeking relief from environmental, situational, and life stressors.
(804) 531-4284 View (804) 531-4284
Photo of Dr. Amy Sproul, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Amy Sproul
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bon Air, VA 23235  (Online Only)
I bring a nonjudgemental, warm presence to therapy, helping you to move through suffering and heal from difficult experiences. I strongly believe that each of us is capable of more than just “getting by,” even if we sometimes struggle to access a sense of wholeness, contentment, or connection in life. Allowing ourselves to hope for a better experience, a better life, takes courage. However, I firmly believe that every human has the innate capacity to move through anxiety, depression, trauma, and dis-ease into spaces of freedom and joy.
I bring a nonjudgemental, warm presence to therapy, helping you to move through suffering and heal from difficult experiences. I strongly believe that each of us is capable of more than just “getting by,” even if we sometimes struggle to access a sense of wholeness, contentment, or connection in life. Allowing ourselves to hope for a better experience, a better life, takes courage. However, I firmly believe that every human has the innate capacity to move through anxiety, depression, trauma, and dis-ease into spaces of freedom and joy.
(202) 318-8935 View (202) 318-8935

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Nikole Muriithi, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nikole Muriithi
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
North Chesterfield, VA 23236  (Online Only)
Are you looking for a therapist who is honest, direct, and focused on helping you in a way that fits your needs? Are you struggling with Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, motivation, time management, impulse control, and so much more? Do you struggle with overwhelming emotions and relationship issues? If you answered YES to any or all of these questions, I am the therapist for you! My approach is different from the rest. My "ADHD superpower" is helping those just like me who struggle in a world not designed for them. This has caused trauma you no longer have to carry. Let me help lighten your load and heal your soul.
Are you looking for a therapist who is honest, direct, and focused on helping you in a way that fits your needs? Are you struggling with Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, motivation, time management, impulse control, and so much more? Do you struggle with overwhelming emotions and relationship issues? If you answered YES to any or all of these questions, I am the therapist for you! My approach is different from the rest. My "ADHD superpower" is helping those just like me who struggle in a world not designed for them. This has caused trauma you no longer have to carry. Let me help lighten your load and heal your soul.
(804) 587-8859 View (804) 587-8859
Photo of Sarah Mines, LPC, MSEd, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sarah Mines
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MSEd
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23235
I have experience with a wide range of troubles including (but not limited to) adjustments to life changes, anxiety, depression, Bipolar Disorder, women's issues, persons in helping professions, trauma, and LGBTQIA+ issues.
Therapy is a place where we are allowed to be raw, imperfect, vulnerable humans in a society that expects us to be flawlessly composed. I focus my practice on personal power and can provide you with tools to work on whatever is causing your stress, whether that's in the present, past, or future. My goal in counseling is to be a source of unconditional support while we step back and explore the ways in which social forces impact(ed) the ways you understand yourself and the world. I firmly believe knowing oneself as a whole person is a crucial step to substantial and sustainable change and know we can find solutions to help you grow.
I have experience with a wide range of troubles including (but not limited to) adjustments to life changes, anxiety, depression, Bipolar Disorder, women's issues, persons in helping professions, trauma, and LGBTQIA+ issues.
Therapy is a place where we are allowed to be raw, imperfect, vulnerable humans in a society that expects us to be flawlessly composed. I focus my practice on personal power and can provide you with tools to work on whatever is causing your stress, whether that's in the present, past, or future. My goal in counseling is to be a source of unconditional support while we step back and explore the ways in which social forces impact(ed) the ways you understand yourself and the world. I firmly believe knowing oneself as a whole person is a crucial step to substantial and sustainable change and know we can find solutions to help you grow.
(757) 347-8966 View (757) 347-8966
Photo of Debbie Anderson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Debbie Anderson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23225
Hi! My name is Debbie and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been practicing in the field for over 13 years. I specialize primarily in the treatment of trauma, depression, and anxiety, but have also helped individuals diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder, Schizoaffective Disorder, and Schizophrenia. I am trained in CBT, DBT, Cognitive Processing Therapy, and EMDR, and have spent the majority of my adult life developing and authenticating my skills to help those in need. I am very passionate about the work I do, and believe that all have the power within them to heal and recover, whatever that might look like.
Hi! My name is Debbie and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been practicing in the field for over 13 years. I specialize primarily in the treatment of trauma, depression, and anxiety, but have also helped individuals diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder, Schizoaffective Disorder, and Schizophrenia. I am trained in CBT, DBT, Cognitive Processing Therapy, and EMDR, and have spent the majority of my adult life developing and authenticating my skills to help those in need. I am very passionate about the work I do, and believe that all have the power within them to heal and recover, whatever that might look like.
(804) 593-0535 View (804) 593-0535
Photo of Shantel Cooper, MEd, LMHP-R
Shantel Cooper
Resident in Counseling, MEd, LMHP-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23236
Do you speak your child's language? In today's world, chances are the answer is no. My name is Shantel, Resident in Counseling at Centering Elements. I specialize in families. I enjoy using my professional experience and person-centered approach to assist parents with cultivating healthy relationships with their children. I have experience with Depression, ADHD, Anxiety, Substance use, Bipolar I and II, as well as changes in family dynamics. I have assisted children and their parents with learning to communicate effectively, establishing boundaries, and navigating conflicts.
Do you speak your child's language? In today's world, chances are the answer is no. My name is Shantel, Resident in Counseling at Centering Elements. I specialize in families. I enjoy using my professional experience and person-centered approach to assist parents with cultivating healthy relationships with their children. I have experience with Depression, ADHD, Anxiety, Substance use, Bipolar I and II, as well as changes in family dynamics. I have assisted children and their parents with learning to communicate effectively, establishing boundaries, and navigating conflicts.
(804) 395-5304 View (804) 395-5304
Photo of Scarlete Johnson, LPC, CSAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Scarlete Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CSAC
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23225  (Online Only)
I have walked alongside others on journeys to healing from depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, domestic abuse, childhood trauma, sex trauma, drug and alcohol addiction, workplace related trauma, low self worth, self hate, grief and through manufactured emotions such as guilt and shame.
I have been in the field of mental health for the last 15 years doing case management, intensive in home therapy, substance use disorder counseling, intensive outpatient and outpatient therapy. I enjoy working with adolescents and adults ranging in age from 14 years and up. I am aware of cultural, religious, and ethnic differences and take on an individualized approach tailored to fit the specific needs of person in treatment. I do what I do because I believe that humans are neither fundamentally good or bad but the product of their experiences that have taught them something about the world, others and most importantly, themselves.
I have walked alongside others on journeys to healing from depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, domestic abuse, childhood trauma, sex trauma, drug and alcohol addiction, workplace related trauma, low self worth, self hate, grief and through manufactured emotions such as guilt and shame.
I have been in the field of mental health for the last 15 years doing case management, intensive in home therapy, substance use disorder counseling, intensive outpatient and outpatient therapy. I enjoy working with adolescents and adults ranging in age from 14 years and up. I am aware of cultural, religious, and ethnic differences and take on an individualized approach tailored to fit the specific needs of person in treatment. I do what I do because I believe that humans are neither fundamentally good or bad but the product of their experiences that have taught them something about the world, others and most importantly, themselves.
(571) 946-6920 View (571) 946-6920
Photo of Ashley Burgess, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ashley Burgess
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23225  (Online Only)
I have worked with individuals of diverse populations and backgrounds experiencing serious mental illness (such as major depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, PTSD), substance use disorders, co-occurring disorders, trauma, domestic violence, etc.
Hi, I'm Ashley! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the state of Virginia with over 12 years of experience in the mental health field providing a variety of services including crisis intervention, mental health skill building, group therapy, individual therapy, and case management. I've worked in both inpatient and outpatient behavioral health settings including community service boards, non-profits, residential group homes, residential crisis stabilization units, and hospital acute psychiatric units.
I have worked with individuals of diverse populations and backgrounds experiencing serious mental illness (such as major depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, PTSD), substance use disorders, co-occurring disorders, trauma, domestic violence, etc.
Hi, I'm Ashley! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the state of Virginia with over 12 years of experience in the mental health field providing a variety of services including crisis intervention, mental health skill building, group therapy, individual therapy, and case management. I've worked in both inpatient and outpatient behavioral health settings including community service boards, non-profits, residential group homes, residential crisis stabilization units, and hospital acute psychiatric units.
(804) 709-3863 View (804) 709-3863
Photo of Laura Cahill, MAT, LCSW, C-DBT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laura Cahill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MAT, LCSW, C-DBT
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23225  (Online Only)
Hello I am Laura Cahill! I am a passionate, energetic, and dedicated Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a love for the art of engagement in the work of therapy. Do you feel like your emotions have taken over and pushed you out of the driver's seat in life? In life, we often experience challenges, unexpected stress and transitions, trauma, hurt, grief and loss. Understandably, we may struggle with powerful emotions that seem to almost overtake us. Part of the human experience is wanting to feel in control of our inner and outer lives. It’s time to step back from the battle-not by retreating, but by re-framing.
Hello I am Laura Cahill! I am a passionate, energetic, and dedicated Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a love for the art of engagement in the work of therapy. Do you feel like your emotions have taken over and pushed you out of the driver's seat in life? In life, we often experience challenges, unexpected stress and transitions, trauma, hurt, grief and loss. Understandably, we may struggle with powerful emotions that seem to almost overtake us. Part of the human experience is wanting to feel in control of our inner and outer lives. It’s time to step back from the battle-not by retreating, but by re-framing.
(804) 979-2263 View (804) 979-2263
Photo of Robyn Slayton-Lopez, MA,  LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Robyn Slayton-Lopez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23225  (Online Only)
My ideal client is someone who is motivated and has some insight into their own thoughts and behaviors. This type of client is willing to actively engage in the therapeutic process, which can lead to more meaningful progress and a better overall therapeutic experience. My ideal client is someone who recognizes that they have areas in their life that they want to improve and is willing to work hard to make those changes happen. They may have a diagnosis of depression, anxiety, OCD, suicidal thoughts, or personality disorders. While these diagnoses can be challenging, I love working with clients who sees them are goals to work on.
My ideal client is someone who is motivated and has some insight into their own thoughts and behaviors. This type of client is willing to actively engage in the therapeutic process, which can lead to more meaningful progress and a better overall therapeutic experience. My ideal client is someone who recognizes that they have areas in their life that they want to improve and is willing to work hard to make those changes happen. They may have a diagnosis of depression, anxiety, OCD, suicidal thoughts, or personality disorders. While these diagnoses can be challenging, I love working with clients who sees them are goals to work on.
(757) 801-2356 View (757) 801-2356
Photo of Jasmine Lackey, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jasmine Lackey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Chesterfield, VA 23235
My name is Jasmine Lackey and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I know making the decision to go to therapy is extremely difficult, but I am excited to work with you! While I specialize in anxiety and overthinking, perfectionism, trauma, life transitions, women’s issues and relationship issues, my goal is to support my client’s in their healing journey to become the best versions of themselves. I aim to provide a warm, non judgemental, safe space for clients while also gently challenging them to confront unhealthy behaviors and/or thinking patterns to improve their relationships with others and themselves.
My name is Jasmine Lackey and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I know making the decision to go to therapy is extremely difficult, but I am excited to work with you! While I specialize in anxiety and overthinking, perfectionism, trauma, life transitions, women’s issues and relationship issues, my goal is to support my client’s in their healing journey to become the best versions of themselves. I aim to provide a warm, non judgemental, safe space for clients while also gently challenging them to confront unhealthy behaviors and/or thinking patterns to improve their relationships with others and themselves.
(804) 568-9603 View (804) 568-9603
Photo of Robin DeHaven-Roberts, LPC, LSATP , Licensed Professional Counselor
Robin DeHaven-Roberts
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LSATP
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23225
Are you or someone in your family constantly dealing with depression and anxiety and nothing seems to be working? Does it feel like no matter how hard you try, your relationship is still falling apart? Have you tried to solve the problems in your life on your own and realized you need help from someone else? If so I can help. I love being a part of others journeys to become happy and whole.
Are you or someone in your family constantly dealing with depression and anxiety and nothing seems to be working? Does it feel like no matter how hard you try, your relationship is still falling apart? Have you tried to solve the problems in your life on your own and realized you need help from someone else? If so I can help. I love being a part of others journeys to become happy and whole.
(804) 395-6433 View (804) 395-6433
Photo of Michelle L Jackson, DSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle L Jackson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Midlothian, VA 23113  (Online Only)
I am open minded and a free thinker. I listen without judgement, but listen with a mindful ear to help you sort through “stuff.” Life can be difficult to unpack and with specific attention to you, your thoughts, concerns and routines I can help enhance your way of living by thinking of ways, together to make your circumstance better. Most times it truly can be helpful to have someone else who can observe and listen. That’s me!
I am open minded and a free thinker. I listen without judgement, but listen with a mindful ear to help you sort through “stuff.” Life can be difficult to unpack and with specific attention to you, your thoughts, concerns and routines I can help enhance your way of living by thinking of ways, together to make your circumstance better. Most times it truly can be helpful to have someone else who can observe and listen. That’s me!
(804) 294-4497 View (804) 294-4497
Photo of Indinesya Zhao, MS, LPC, CSOTP-T, Licensed Professional Counselor
Indinesya Zhao
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CSOTP-T
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23236
When journaling, self-care, and quotes are no longer sufficient, it may be time to explore deeper avenues of healing and growth. As a therapist, I provide a safe and supportive space; I do not believe in stigmatizing or judging individuals, nor do I equate people with their diagnoses. No matter what you’re facing, you deserve the support of a genuine advocate who wants to see you thrive!
When journaling, self-care, and quotes are no longer sufficient, it may be time to explore deeper avenues of healing and growth. As a therapist, I provide a safe and supportive space; I do not believe in stigmatizing or judging individuals, nor do I equate people with their diagnoses. No matter what you’re facing, you deserve the support of a genuine advocate who wants to see you thrive!
(804) 492-0355 View (804) 492-0355
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.