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Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Oakland, CA

Photo of Alisa Birgy, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alisa Birgy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610
I am a change oriented therapist and would like to support you in finding new solutions to old problems. I am part of a group practice that provides individual and group DBT, and I have experience working with addiction/alcoholism, trauma, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and psychosis. My other passion is parenting and pregnancy as I ran a parenting program for 12 years. I understand the stresses facing parents with young children, and will provide a trusting relationship where you can develop skills and experience more joy in parenting.
I am a change oriented therapist and would like to support you in finding new solutions to old problems. I am part of a group practice that provides individual and group DBT, and I have experience working with addiction/alcoholism, trauma, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and psychosis. My other passion is parenting and pregnancy as I ran a parenting program for 12 years. I understand the stresses facing parents with young children, and will provide a trusting relationship where you can develop skills and experience more joy in parenting.
(415) 663-5488 View (415) 663-5488
Photo of Gigi Pagani, PsyD, Psychologist
Gigi Pagani
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94618
My specialties are 1) bipolar disorder and creativity; If you are an artist of any persuasion with a bipolar diagnosis, I will help you to balance your creative and mental health needs 2) Play therapy for children ages 3-11, which permits the working through of challenges through imaginative play 3) Grief work for children coping with the loss of a caregiver.
Are you or your child unhappy, anxious, angry, or grieving? Perhaps you are adjusting to a bipolar diagnosis, recovering from trauma, struggling in relationships, seeking personal growth, or discovering your identity. Adults, couples, and children are all welcome in my practice! Together, we will consider the complexity of who and how you are—your unique combination of life experiences, temperament, culture, relationships, and more. In exploring formative experiences and present-day struggles and strengths, we will discover and address what is interfering with you having the life you desire.
My specialties are 1) bipolar disorder and creativity; If you are an artist of any persuasion with a bipolar diagnosis, I will help you to balance your creative and mental health needs 2) Play therapy for children ages 3-11, which permits the working through of challenges through imaginative play 3) Grief work for children coping with the loss of a caregiver.
Are you or your child unhappy, anxious, angry, or grieving? Perhaps you are adjusting to a bipolar diagnosis, recovering from trauma, struggling in relationships, seeking personal growth, or discovering your identity. Adults, couples, and children are all welcome in my practice! Together, we will consider the complexity of who and how you are—your unique combination of life experiences, temperament, culture, relationships, and more. In exploring formative experiences and present-day struggles and strengths, we will discover and address what is interfering with you having the life you desire.
(415) 300-2099 View (415) 300-2099
Photo of David A Donovan, PhD, Psychologist
David A Donovan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610  (Online Only)
My primary clinical specialties are Bipolar Disorder & Substance Abuse, and associated problems e.
Are you a man with problems at work, or your relationships? Do you want things to be different? Then you must do things differently. Usually we solve problems by our efforts, or with the support of friends and family. That is often best. Other times, professional guidance is required. If you want an experienced psychologist who is well informed, practical, compassionate, and collaborative, consider working with me. I am ready to help you help yourself. Just email to arrange a phone consultation without cost or obligation. Please note: I provide online therapy to California men only.
My primary clinical specialties are Bipolar Disorder & Substance Abuse, and associated problems e.
Are you a man with problems at work, or your relationships? Do you want things to be different? Then you must do things differently. Usually we solve problems by our efforts, or with the support of friends and family. That is often best. Other times, professional guidance is required. If you want an experienced psychologist who is well informed, practical, compassionate, and collaborative, consider working with me. I am ready to help you help yourself. Just email to arrange a phone consultation without cost or obligation. Please note: I provide online therapy to California men only.
(415) 802-0119 View (415) 802-0119
Photo of Will Hall, MA, DiplPW
Will Hall
MA, DiplPW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610
I work with trauma and extreme states of consciousness, including alternatives for bipolar, schizophrenia, psychosis, medication, diagnosis, and family domestic violence.
My work as a therapist is to help individuals, couples, and families access new resources behind emotional struggles and life problems. I am trained in Jungian and Open Dialogue approaches and am a lifelong learner of the work of R.D. Laing. I am recognized internationally for my advocacy and training work in the psychiatric survivors movement and as a leader for new social responses to what gets called madness and psychosis. I see suffering, including what gets called psychosis, from outside the narrow mechanistic science, diagnostic label, and medication views.
I work with trauma and extreme states of consciousness, including alternatives for bipolar, schizophrenia, psychosis, medication, diagnosis, and family domestic violence.
My work as a therapist is to help individuals, couples, and families access new resources behind emotional struggles and life problems. I am trained in Jungian and Open Dialogue approaches and am a lifelong learner of the work of R.D. Laing. I am recognized internationally for my advocacy and training work in the psychiatric survivors movement and as a leader for new social responses to what gets called madness and psychosis. I see suffering, including what gets called psychosis, from outside the narrow mechanistic science, diagnostic label, and medication views.
(510) 990-9767 View (510) 990-9767
Photo of Tim Henry, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tim Henry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94609
I have 16 years of experience helping clients with relationship issues, depression, anxiety, life transitions, divorce, boundary issues, parental challenges, grief, trauma, chronic pain, & Bipolar Disorder.
Who is driving you crazy? Your partner, your boss, your teacher, your mother? Are you feeling overwhelmed, trapped, unsatisfied? Would you like to be more assertive, establish stronger boundaries & have more satisfying relationships? Would you like to remove obstacles that are preventing you from achieving your dreams? I want to help you develop life-long patterns to sustain a richer, more gratifying life. I specialize in working with adults going through transitions relating to work, school & relationships. I love working with intelligent, creative, motivated & insightful clients.
I have 16 years of experience helping clients with relationship issues, depression, anxiety, life transitions, divorce, boundary issues, parental challenges, grief, trauma, chronic pain, & Bipolar Disorder.
Who is driving you crazy? Your partner, your boss, your teacher, your mother? Are you feeling overwhelmed, trapped, unsatisfied? Would you like to be more assertive, establish stronger boundaries & have more satisfying relationships? Would you like to remove obstacles that are preventing you from achieving your dreams? I want to help you develop life-long patterns to sustain a richer, more gratifying life. I specialize in working with adults going through transitions relating to work, school & relationships. I love working with intelligent, creative, motivated & insightful clients.
(510) 878-4379 View (510) 878-4379
Photo of Lisette R Lahana, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisette R Lahana
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94610  (Online Only)
Welcome! I understand the challenges of finding the right therapist. My aim is to provide a sanctuary where we address your concerns from a holistic perspective.My practice is tailored for individuals who identify as queer, trans, non-binary, or are exploring gender and/or sexuality. Embracing a trauma-informed approach, I acknowledge the experiences you've endured and can support your journey toward healing.With over two decades of experience, I specialize in mood condition like Bipolar Disorder. Whether it's navigating identity or focusing on other essential aspects of your life such as relationships or career, I'm here to help.
Welcome! I understand the challenges of finding the right therapist. My aim is to provide a sanctuary where we address your concerns from a holistic perspective.My practice is tailored for individuals who identify as queer, trans, non-binary, or are exploring gender and/or sexuality. Embracing a trauma-informed approach, I acknowledge the experiences you've endured and can support your journey toward healing.With over two decades of experience, I specialize in mood condition like Bipolar Disorder. Whether it's navigating identity or focusing on other essential aspects of your life such as relationships or career, I'm here to help.
(510) 915-4795 View (510) 915-4795
Photo of Maria Hernandez, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Maria Hernandez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94601
Throughout my nine years of experience, I have dealt with different diagnosis, including Depression, Anxiety, bipolar, and adjustment disorder, among others.
I am excited that you are here today. My primary job as a psychotherapist is to assist others in managing issues in life. I enjoy helping others; I like providing the right tools to individuals in order to allow them to see their potential in life; to see them make progress towards their goals. However, this is not my only role in life. I am also a friend, partner, and step-parent who plays a role in who I am today and my personality. I believe my personality is very welcoming to others.
Throughout my nine years of experience, I have dealt with different diagnosis, including Depression, Anxiety, bipolar, and adjustment disorder, among others.
I am excited that you are here today. My primary job as a psychotherapist is to assist others in managing issues in life. I enjoy helping others; I like providing the right tools to individuals in order to allow them to see their potential in life; to see them make progress towards their goals. However, this is not my only role in life. I am also a friend, partner, and step-parent who plays a role in who I am today and my personality. I believe my personality is very welcoming to others.
(510) 907-7157 View (510) 907-7157
Photo of Kelly Albrecht, ASW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kelly Albrecht
Pre-Licensed Professional, ASW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
With expertise in substance use disorder, ADHD, bipolar and personality disorders, my holistic approach to therapy prioritizes safety and healing, with trauma-informed care.
Are you struggling to process depression, anxiety, relationship/family issues, and trauma? These emotional ruptures can cause major disruptions in our lives. The work to process these types of life events is multifaceted, and I can help you identify your feelings and potential relational patterns, build tolerance and acceptance around challenging ones, and set meaningful goals. In order to do so, I utilize various therapeutic approaches consisting of ACT, CBT, and Problem Solving Therapy and somatic interventions.
With expertise in substance use disorder, ADHD, bipolar and personality disorders, my holistic approach to therapy prioritizes safety and healing, with trauma-informed care.
Are you struggling to process depression, anxiety, relationship/family issues, and trauma? These emotional ruptures can cause major disruptions in our lives. The work to process these types of life events is multifaceted, and I can help you identify your feelings and potential relational patterns, build tolerance and acceptance around challenging ones, and set meaningful goals. In order to do so, I utilize various therapeutic approaches consisting of ACT, CBT, and Problem Solving Therapy and somatic interventions.
(415) 855-7073 View (415) 855-7073
Photo of Shenae Brown, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Shenae Brown
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94619
I have experience treating issues related to depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use disorders, bipolar, personality disorders, interpersonal violence, grief and loss, culture, cultural and systemic oppression, family or origin, and life purpose.
I am client-centered, compassionate, empathetic, hopeful and believe we all need help and support during life. I believe it's important to have a working and collaborative professional therapeutic relationship.
I have experience treating issues related to depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use disorders, bipolar, personality disorders, interpersonal violence, grief and loss, culture, cultural and systemic oppression, family or origin, and life purpose.
I am client-centered, compassionate, empathetic, hopeful and believe we all need help and support during life. I believe it's important to have a working and collaborative professional therapeutic relationship.
(323) 794-0939 View (323) 794-0939
Photo of Elysa Thangchaipinyokul, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elysa Thangchaipinyokul
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94611
Hello! My name is Elysa Thangchaipinyokul and I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Southern California. I attended the University of Southern California and graduated in 2010 with my Master of Social Work (MSW) Degree. I've worked in mental health for over 10 years providing psychotherapy primarily to adults and older adults. My primary expertise has been working with clients who are dealing with mood disorders (Bipolar, Depression & Anxiety). I also have worked with clients dealing with grief, trauma, and life transitions/adjustments.
Hello! My name is Elysa Thangchaipinyokul and I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Southern California. I attended the University of Southern California and graduated in 2010 with my Master of Social Work (MSW) Degree. I've worked in mental health for over 10 years providing psychotherapy primarily to adults and older adults. My primary expertise has been working with clients who are dealing with mood disorders (Bipolar, Depression & Anxiety). I also have worked with clients dealing with grief, trauma, and life transitions/adjustments.
(661) 320-8709 View (661) 320-8709
Photo of Hayley Howard, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Hayley Howard
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94605
Hi! My name is Hayley Howard, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California. I work primarily with adults with anxiety, and depression, and throughout various life transitions via modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Integrated/Holistic Health. In my experience thus far as a therapist, I have found a deep connection to adult clients that are motivated to address various mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and life transitions.
Hi! My name is Hayley Howard, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California. I work primarily with adults with anxiety, and depression, and throughout various life transitions via modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Integrated/Holistic Health. In my experience thus far as a therapist, I have found a deep connection to adult clients that are motivated to address various mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and life transitions.
(213) 320-6904 View (213) 320-6904
Photo of undefined - William Selig, PsyD, MFA, PsyD, MFA, Psychologist
William Selig, PsyD, MFA
Psychologist, PsyD, MFA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94609
I am also an expert in treating bipolar disorder and am the author of When Your Partner Has Bipolar Disorder.
Are you feeling stuck or overwhelmed? Do you get in your own way, with negative thoughts or behaviors? Do you struggle with intimacy and trust? Perhaps you're gripped by emotions you cannot control; or the opposite - feel disconnected, alienated, unable to get close? Others have found healing and transformation through psychotherapy - there is hope!
I am also an expert in treating bipolar disorder and am the author of When Your Partner Has Bipolar Disorder.
Are you feeling stuck or overwhelmed? Do you get in your own way, with negative thoughts or behaviors? Do you struggle with intimacy and trust? Perhaps you're gripped by emotions you cannot control; or the opposite - feel disconnected, alienated, unable to get close? Others have found healing and transformation through psychotherapy - there is hope!
(510) 871-8326 View (510) 871-8326
Photo of Susan Futterman, MS, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Susan Futterman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94618
I am primarily focused on working with bereaved individuals and/or families who have lost someone to suicide as well as working with individuals who have made suicide attempts in the past or are considering an attempt. In addition, I work with individuals dealing with emotional/psychological trauma of all types, as well as with depression and grief. I also have experience working with people dealing with challenges such as bipolar disorder. I provide both individual and group therapy.
I am primarily focused on working with bereaved individuals and/or families who have lost someone to suicide as well as working with individuals who have made suicide attempts in the past or are considering an attempt. In addition, I work with individuals dealing with emotional/psychological trauma of all types, as well as with depression and grief. I also have experience working with people dealing with challenges such as bipolar disorder. I provide both individual and group therapy.
(415) 870-8056 View (415) 870-8056
Photo of Jeffrey Hall Psy. D, PsyD, Psychologist
Jeffrey Hall Psy. D
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94610
Welcome. I offer an initial 30 minute phone or video consultation at no charge. It's essential to determine comfort level and fit before proceeding. I have have expertise with adult ADHD, marital/relational therapy, trauma (PTSD), geriatric populations, bipolar spectrum disorders, and the more common disorders (major depression/anxiety). My approach aims to provide some immediate symptom relief while also focusing on deeper, longer term resolution. Many clinical situations cannot be quickly resolved in a way that sustains. Therefore, I am also attentive to unconscious processes, relational patterns and family-of-origin influences.
Welcome. I offer an initial 30 minute phone or video consultation at no charge. It's essential to determine comfort level and fit before proceeding. I have have expertise with adult ADHD, marital/relational therapy, trauma (PTSD), geriatric populations, bipolar spectrum disorders, and the more common disorders (major depression/anxiety). My approach aims to provide some immediate symptom relief while also focusing on deeper, longer term resolution. Many clinical situations cannot be quickly resolved in a way that sustains. Therefore, I am also attentive to unconscious processes, relational patterns and family-of-origin influences.
(415) 818-0982 View (415) 818-0982
Photo of Norval J. Hickman III, PhD, MPH, Psychologist
Norval J. Hickman III
Psychologist, PhD, MPH
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94601
Waitlist for new clients
My approach to therapy integrates evidence-based practices grounded in the psychological literature. I have experience working with adolescents and adults to reduce or eliminate: anxiety, stress, and anger issues; depressive and bipolar mood symptom management; relationship, work, and school issues; problems with rumination and repetitive behaviors, and substance use problems. The structure of sessions varies based on a client's needs and can focus on: processing life events, understanding past and current issues, moving through difficult emotions, or learning skills for sustained behavior change and improved emotional processing.
My approach to therapy integrates evidence-based practices grounded in the psychological literature. I have experience working with adolescents and adults to reduce or eliminate: anxiety, stress, and anger issues; depressive and bipolar mood symptom management; relationship, work, and school issues; problems with rumination and repetitive behaviors, and substance use problems. The structure of sessions varies based on a client's needs and can focus on: processing life events, understanding past and current issues, moving through difficult emotions, or learning skills for sustained behavior change and improved emotional processing.
(510) 725-4573 View (510) 725-4573
Photo of Justin Weber, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Justin Weber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94605
I've been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for the past 14 years and love what I do. I approach all my clients with empathy and compassion whatever reason they are seeking therapy. I have been trained specifically to work with couples, relationships, and individuals suffering from addiction, substance abuse, anxiety, depression, Bipolar, PTSD, infidelity, and grief. I want my clients to achieve results including greater independence, symptom reduction, and general quality of life. My approach to therapy is eclectic and depending what are your core issues you bring in.
I've been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for the past 14 years and love what I do. I approach all my clients with empathy and compassion whatever reason they are seeking therapy. I have been trained specifically to work with couples, relationships, and individuals suffering from addiction, substance abuse, anxiety, depression, Bipolar, PTSD, infidelity, and grief. I want my clients to achieve results including greater independence, symptom reduction, and general quality of life. My approach to therapy is eclectic and depending what are your core issues you bring in.
(949) 649-2546 View (949) 649-2546
Photo of Gina Regalbuto, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gina Regalbuto
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94601  (Online Only)
Hello, my name is Gina Regalbuto, and I am a licensed clinical social worker practicing in California. My specialization is in healing trauma, depression, and anxiety and the symptoms and stressors that follow as a result. I have also worked extensively with bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, and schizophrenia. I primarily practice through the lens of psychodynamic theory and I am an eclectic provider who utilizes the modality that serves my client's the best.
Hello, my name is Gina Regalbuto, and I am a licensed clinical social worker practicing in California. My specialization is in healing trauma, depression, and anxiety and the symptoms and stressors that follow as a result. I have also worked extensively with bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, and schizophrenia. I primarily practice through the lens of psychodynamic theory and I am an eclectic provider who utilizes the modality that serves my client's the best.
(661) 475-6727 View (661) 475-6727
Photo of Mayra Molina, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mayra Molina
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94605
My name is Mayra Molina. I am a licensed Marriage and Family therapist in California. I provide services in Spanish. I have experience working with victims of crime, depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, substance use, stress management, coping skills as well as developmental disabilities such as Autism. I allow my client to process as I support them by meeting you where you are to identify tools that would help improve your quality of life while better managing your symptoms. I help my clients identify goals in their first sessions and we revisit goals as needed as well as following each client's treatment plan.
My name is Mayra Molina. I am a licensed Marriage and Family therapist in California. I provide services in Spanish. I have experience working with victims of crime, depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, substance use, stress management, coping skills as well as developmental disabilities such as Autism. I allow my client to process as I support them by meeting you where you are to identify tools that would help improve your quality of life while better managing your symptoms. I help my clients identify goals in their first sessions and we revisit goals as needed as well as following each client's treatment plan.
(442) 777-6670 View (442) 777-6670
Photo of Shelly Harris, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Shelly Harris
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94601  (Online Only)
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist with a heart for the lost and hurting. I specialize in helping Adolescents, Adults and their families navigate the challenges of Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, panic disorder, family stress, overwhelming academic pressures, low self-esteem, racial, sexuality, and gender issues (LGBTQ+). I help people of all ages take charge of their mental health symptoms and navigate the challenges of life. I help people find their way back to happy, guide them in healing their broken hearts, and above all honor who my clients are and the abilities they have, to live the lives they desire.
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist with a heart for the lost and hurting. I specialize in helping Adolescents, Adults and their families navigate the challenges of Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, panic disorder, family stress, overwhelming academic pressures, low self-esteem, racial, sexuality, and gender issues (LGBTQ+). I help people of all ages take charge of their mental health symptoms and navigate the challenges of life. I help people find their way back to happy, guide them in healing their broken hearts, and above all honor who my clients are and the abilities they have, to live the lives they desire.
(408) 317-1662 View (408) 317-1662
Photo of Tucker Peck, PhD, Psychologist
Tucker Peck
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94601
Over the last 18 years, I've worked with a diverse group of child, teenage, and adult clients (individuals and couples) across a wide range of settings, both inpatient and outpatient. I use a client-directed approach, where you and I collaborate to determine what the therapy process will look like, rather than the therapist taking the "expert role" on your life. Some of the problems I most often help people with are depression, insomnia, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, ADHD, grief & trauma, and adjustment to life's stressors and changes. I am taking new clients in-person at my office in Alameda.
Over the last 18 years, I've worked with a diverse group of child, teenage, and adult clients (individuals and couples) across a wide range of settings, both inpatient and outpatient. I use a client-directed approach, where you and I collaborate to determine what the therapy process will look like, rather than the therapist taking the "expert role" on your life. Some of the problems I most often help people with are depression, insomnia, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, ADHD, grief & trauma, and adjustment to life's stressors and changes. I am taking new clients in-person at my office in Alameda.
(415) 802-2860 View (415) 802-2860
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.