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Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Atlanta, GA

Photo of Trakeeta Patterson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Trakeeta Patterson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30344
Has stress, anxiety, depression or anger been problematic for you? Has your ability to cope affected your daily living and/or relationships? Have you been diagnosed with bipolar schizophrenia or any other illness and has had difficulty accepting and managing your symptoms? Untreated mental illness can easily affect your health and well-being and often cause strain on important relationships. Help is out there! Get ready to live a more healthy and productive life!
Has stress, anxiety, depression or anger been problematic for you? Has your ability to cope affected your daily living and/or relationships? Have you been diagnosed with bipolar schizophrenia or any other illness and has had difficulty accepting and managing your symptoms? Untreated mental illness can easily affect your health and well-being and often cause strain on important relationships. Help is out there! Get ready to live a more healthy and productive life!
(404) 777-4478 View (404) 777-4478
Photo of Mary Lengel, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mary Lengel
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30324
I specialize in the treatment of thought disorders, mood disorders (Bipolar I & II Disorders, Depression), and anxiety disorders.
I provide a space where you can feel understood, supported and empowered. I truly believe that effective therapy is grounded in a genuine and collaborative relationship between the client and therapist. My style in session is conversational to help build connection, and I provide feedback in an empathetic and non-judgmental way. I can help you learn effective ways to manage difficult feelings, change problematic thought patterns, and address tendencies affecting your relationships and life. I can also help you gain insight into the connection between your past experiences and current issues so that you have lasting change.
I specialize in the treatment of thought disorders, mood disorders (Bipolar I & II Disorders, Depression), and anxiety disorders.
I provide a space where you can feel understood, supported and empowered. I truly believe that effective therapy is grounded in a genuine and collaborative relationship between the client and therapist. My style in session is conversational to help build connection, and I provide feedback in an empathetic and non-judgmental way. I can help you learn effective ways to manage difficult feelings, change problematic thought patterns, and address tendencies affecting your relationships and life. I can also help you gain insight into the connection between your past experiences and current issues so that you have lasting change.
(404) 869-2612 View (404) 869-2612
Photo of Laporshe Smith, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Laporshe Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30310
My name is Laporshe, I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 8 years of experience. My counseling style is pretty laid-back. I have been described as supportive, caring, and compassionate. I specialize in anxiety, bipolar disorder, coping skills, depression, mood disorders, grief, impulse control disorders, dissociative disorders, and psychosis. I believe there is no “one size fits all” type of therapy, I fit my style of therapy according to the need of my patients by using integrative approaches when it is suitable for my clients. My approach often utilizes a mix of CBT and ACT for a person-centered and supportive approach.
My name is Laporshe, I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 8 years of experience. My counseling style is pretty laid-back. I have been described as supportive, caring, and compassionate. I specialize in anxiety, bipolar disorder, coping skills, depression, mood disorders, grief, impulse control disorders, dissociative disorders, and psychosis. I believe there is no “one size fits all” type of therapy, I fit my style of therapy according to the need of my patients by using integrative approaches when it is suitable for my clients. My approach often utilizes a mix of CBT and ACT for a person-centered and supportive approach.
(470) 823-9452 View (470) 823-9452
Photo of Lisette M Infante, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lisette M Infante
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30306  (Online Only)
I also have experience working with Mood disorders such as Bipolar disorder, Anxiety, and Depression.
My approach to helping people is first trying to really get to know someone and understand what may not be working for them in their lives. We have all been there where sometimes we just don't know what is going on, all we know is that something is not in sync with what we want it to be. I am going to be honest and genuine during our time together and help you move towards changes you want. I love humor so prepare for us to have a few laughs during our sessions while we work together.
I also have experience working with Mood disorders such as Bipolar disorder, Anxiety, and Depression.
My approach to helping people is first trying to really get to know someone and understand what may not be working for them in their lives. We have all been there where sometimes we just don't know what is going on, all we know is that something is not in sync with what we want it to be. I am going to be honest and genuine during our time together and help you move towards changes you want. I love humor so prepare for us to have a few laughs during our sessions while we work together.
(470) 375-0895 View (470) 375-0895
Photo of Dana M Lindsay, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dana M Lindsay
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30305
Waitlist for new clients
I work with clients desiring help with bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, and trauma issues. I also offer counseling for goals/values clarification, later career/empty nest planning, codependency, relationship stress, and couples/premarital counseling. I believe in helping clients assess and appreciate their strengths in order for them to move forward toward achieving their goals. It is important to create a safe, non-judgmental environment in which clients may explore, share, and rebuild their own life stories.
I work with clients desiring help with bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, and trauma issues. I also offer counseling for goals/values clarification, later career/empty nest planning, codependency, relationship stress, and couples/premarital counseling. I believe in helping clients assess and appreciate their strengths in order for them to move forward toward achieving their goals. It is important to create a safe, non-judgmental environment in which clients may explore, share, and rebuild their own life stories.
(404) 666-8326 View (404) 666-8326
Photo of Tony Sykes, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tony Sykes
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30319
Tony Sykes, LPC Tony Sykes is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Georgia who has been practicing since 2011. Tony is a clinician that serves individuals who have anxiety and depression. He works with individuals that are bipolar and teenagers and young adults who are trying to figure out who they are gender identity and sexuality wise. Tony is a part of the LGBTQIA community, so he wants to serve the community. Tony offers disability advocacy and HIV and STI processing. As you can see, Tony has many skills, plus some he didn't mention. Outside of work, Tony enjoys creativity and directing.
Tony Sykes, LPC Tony Sykes is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Georgia who has been practicing since 2011. Tony is a clinician that serves individuals who have anxiety and depression. He works with individuals that are bipolar and teenagers and young adults who are trying to figure out who they are gender identity and sexuality wise. Tony is a part of the LGBTQIA community, so he wants to serve the community. Tony offers disability advocacy and HIV and STI processing. As you can see, Tony has many skills, plus some he didn't mention. Outside of work, Tony enjoys creativity and directing.
(470) 837-2765 View (470) 837-2765
Photo of Heather Willard, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Heather Willard
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30308
I am a licensed professional counselor with nine years of experience. I am well versed in Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy. I have specialized training in Bipolar Disorder, Mood Disorders, Trauma and PTSD, Child Abuse or Neglect, and Spirituality. My communication style includes empathy and openness. I encourage excellent communication skills and will teach you to achieve them. With excellent communication comes outstanding achievements and empowerment towards your mental health.
I am a licensed professional counselor with nine years of experience. I am well versed in Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy. I have specialized training in Bipolar Disorder, Mood Disorders, Trauma and PTSD, Child Abuse or Neglect, and Spirituality. My communication style includes empathy and openness. I encourage excellent communication skills and will teach you to achieve them. With excellent communication comes outstanding achievements and empowerment towards your mental health.
(678) 710-3621 View (678) 710-3621
Photo of Meagan Ross, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Meagan Ross
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30308  (Online Only)
Hello! I am Meagan, a therapist specializing in depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders, and working with at-risk youth. I primarily utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and solution-focused techniques in my practice. Depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorders can greatly impact your quality of life and daily functioning. My aim is to assist you in understanding and managing these conditions through evidence-based interventions.
Hello! I am Meagan, a therapist specializing in depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders, and working with at-risk youth. I primarily utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and solution-focused techniques in my practice. Depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorders can greatly impact your quality of life and daily functioning. My aim is to assist you in understanding and managing these conditions through evidence-based interventions.
(706) 841-9521 View (706) 841-9521
Photo of Louis Fuertes Boynton, PhD, LPC, NCC, CPCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Louis Fuertes Boynton
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC, CPCS
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30318
My expertise is in helping people with addictions, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, anxiety and the mental health problems associated with a chronic health problem.
Do you feel stuck in life? Do you feel unhealthy and stressed out? My therapy focuses on positive psychology and how to help people find a healthy lifestyle. Using this model, I have developed a type of therapy that focuses on helping people achieve health in mind, body and soul. This work includes finding out what problems exist in a persons life, and working to solve the problems we all face in life (loss/grief, anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction and stress). My hope is that by finding solutions and working out those solutions life will get better.
My expertise is in helping people with addictions, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, anxiety and the mental health problems associated with a chronic health problem.
Do you feel stuck in life? Do you feel unhealthy and stressed out? My therapy focuses on positive psychology and how to help people find a healthy lifestyle. Using this model, I have developed a type of therapy that focuses on helping people achieve health in mind, body and soul. This work includes finding out what problems exist in a persons life, and working to solve the problems we all face in life (loss/grief, anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction and stress). My hope is that by finding solutions and working out those solutions life will get better.
(470) 400-8662 View (470) 400-8662
Photo of Mishele Walker, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mishele Walker
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30328
I have treated borderline personality disorder, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and worked with couples successfully.
I’m a therapist who suffers, like you, with mental health issues at times. Our mental health isn’t always consistent throughout life. Life throws us curveballs. I’ve had the privilege of knowing the deepest thoughts of people and I have been gifted with knowing how to help. my practice includes a gifted child counselor as well, Tarra Ray.
I have treated borderline personality disorder, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and worked with couples successfully.
I’m a therapist who suffers, like you, with mental health issues at times. Our mental health isn’t always consistent throughout life. Life throws us curveballs. I’ve had the privilege of knowing the deepest thoughts of people and I have been gifted with knowing how to help. my practice includes a gifted child counselor as well, Tarra Ray.
(404) 649-0387 View (404) 649-0387
Photo of Corrine Jones-Williams, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Corrine Jones-Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30309  (Online Only)
Corrine Jones-Williams is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who has been in the vast field of social work for more than nine years. Holding a Bachelor of Social Work degree from Livingstone College and a Master of Social Work from The University of South Carolina – Columbia. She is also certified as an Anger Management Specialist. Corrine possesses knowledge of numerous diagnoses from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV) including Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder(s), psychotic disorders and substance abuse and/or dependency.
Corrine Jones-Williams is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who has been in the vast field of social work for more than nine years. Holding a Bachelor of Social Work degree from Livingstone College and a Master of Social Work from The University of South Carolina – Columbia. She is also certified as an Anger Management Specialist. Corrine possesses knowledge of numerous diagnoses from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV) including Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder(s), psychotic disorders and substance abuse and/or dependency.
(478) 249-4460 View (478) 249-4460
Photo of Olivia Ellis, MS, LAPC, CRC, NCC
Olivia Ellis
Associate Professional Counselor, MS, LAPC, CRC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30309  (Online Only)
I specialize working with adolescents & young adults who experience BPD, Bipolar, anxiety, depression, OCD, life transitions, Autism, relationships, disordered eating, & stress.
I understand that therapy can feel overwhelming and intimidating! My goal is to support you in navigating those emotions and guide you on your healing journey. As a clinician, I believe in providing a safe space where you can freely express yourself without fear of judgment for your actions or for who you are as a person. I place great importance on building a strong therapeutic relationship with you, so that we can work together to create the best approach that meets your unique goals.
I specialize working with adolescents & young adults who experience BPD, Bipolar, anxiety, depression, OCD, life transitions, Autism, relationships, disordered eating, & stress.
I understand that therapy can feel overwhelming and intimidating! My goal is to support you in navigating those emotions and guide you on your healing journey. As a clinician, I believe in providing a safe space where you can freely express yourself without fear of judgment for your actions or for who you are as a person. I place great importance on building a strong therapeutic relationship with you, so that we can work together to create the best approach that meets your unique goals.
(470) 431-1076 View (470) 431-1076
Photo of Jason W Byram, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jason W Byram
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30306  (Online Only)
My specialties are working with clients experiencing mood disorders (depression, bipolar), anxiety, stress management issues, and coping with life changes.
Please email me for fastest response. I enjoy helping Clients recognize their problems, gain insight into how their problems developed, and outfit them with tools to cope with and overcome those issues. What do you want out of life? What is preventing you from getting where you want to be? I am glad to listen, I am glad to talk, I am glad to meet you where you are in this journey of life. Change, improvement, peace of mind and genuine happiness are all attainable. Where would you like to begin? How can I help? Please email me on this page for a prompt response.
My specialties are working with clients experiencing mood disorders (depression, bipolar), anxiety, stress management issues, and coping with life changes.
Please email me for fastest response. I enjoy helping Clients recognize their problems, gain insight into how their problems developed, and outfit them with tools to cope with and overcome those issues. What do you want out of life? What is preventing you from getting where you want to be? I am glad to listen, I am glad to talk, I am glad to meet you where you are in this journey of life. Change, improvement, peace of mind and genuine happiness are all attainable. Where would you like to begin? How can I help? Please email me on this page for a prompt response.
(478) 227-4519 View (478) 227-4519
Photo of Adriane Alexander, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Adriane Alexander
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30319
Welcome! My name is Adriane Alexander and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Georgia with over 10 years of experience. I typically work with clients who have a variety of issues. I am comfortable treating clients that are dealing with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, grief, relationship issues, work place stress and women issues. My approach to providing therapy is to make sure that my clients feel safe. I believe that what we need is "already in us." Sometimes we just need a listening ear and support to bring it out of us.
Welcome! My name is Adriane Alexander and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Georgia with over 10 years of experience. I typically work with clients who have a variety of issues. I am comfortable treating clients that are dealing with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, grief, relationship issues, work place stress and women issues. My approach to providing therapy is to make sure that my clients feel safe. I believe that what we need is "already in us." Sometimes we just need a listening ear and support to bring it out of us.
(678) 671-4279 View (678) 671-4279
Photo of Wesley Cole, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Wesley Cole
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30317
Greetings! I am a Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), as well as a Licensed Independent Chemical Dependency Counselor (LICDC) in Georgia with original roots in Ohio. I am a Vietnam-Era Veteran with experience working with veterans and the homeless population. Although my expertise is with Substance Abuse; I am skilled in Mental Health issues such as, (PTSD, Depression, Anxiety Disorder, Bipolar Disorder; etc.) I have worked the majority of my career with Veterans, homeless, and substance abuse clients. I don't limit myself to working with veterans, but that's where I'm most comfortable.
Greetings! I am a Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), as well as a Licensed Independent Chemical Dependency Counselor (LICDC) in Georgia with original roots in Ohio. I am a Vietnam-Era Veteran with experience working with veterans and the homeless population. Although my expertise is with Substance Abuse; I am skilled in Mental Health issues such as, (PTSD, Depression, Anxiety Disorder, Bipolar Disorder; etc.) I have worked the majority of my career with Veterans, homeless, and substance abuse clients. I don't limit myself to working with veterans, but that's where I'm most comfortable.
(470) 536-1178 View (470) 536-1178
Photo of Jennifer A Riapos, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer A Riapos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30339
Waitlist for new clients
Jennifer has a passion for and specializes in working with LGBTQ+ youth, addiction issues, trauma, & families in crisis; a wealth of experience working with clients with bipolar, anxiety, depression, personality disorders, anger and relationship issues.
Jennifer earned her Master's degree in Social Work at Kennesaw State University graduating cum laude. She is currently a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a member of the National Association of Social Workers. A New Jersey native, Jennifer relocated to Cobb County in 2005 as a single parent raising two children. She is active in the community and her church. Jennifer has extensive experience working with varied populations: working with a pregnancy resource center; inpatient adolescents; individuals/families in the community; as well as substance abuse/mental health IOP/PHP treatment settings.
Jennifer has a passion for and specializes in working with LGBTQ+ youth, addiction issues, trauma, & families in crisis; a wealth of experience working with clients with bipolar, anxiety, depression, personality disorders, anger and relationship issues.
Jennifer earned her Master's degree in Social Work at Kennesaw State University graduating cum laude. She is currently a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a member of the National Association of Social Workers. A New Jersey native, Jennifer relocated to Cobb County in 2005 as a single parent raising two children. She is active in the community and her church. Jennifer has extensive experience working with varied populations: working with a pregnancy resource center; inpatient adolescents; individuals/families in the community; as well as substance abuse/mental health IOP/PHP treatment settings.
(678) 263-2735 View (678) 263-2735
Photo of Jasmine Culberson, LPC, NCC, C-DBT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jasmine Culberson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, C-DBT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30341  (Online Only)
Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Trauma, Mood Disorders, and ADHD are just a few of the areas I can be of assistance.
I may be a counselor but I'm always Jasmine. I bring my authentic self to each session so my clients can feel safe to do the same. I strive to meet my clients where they are and assist them in gaining the tools they need to accomplish whatever goals they have set for themselves and become the version of themselves they desire. I don't believe in the "one size fits all" method and truly tailor not only my approach for that client based on their needs but also each session. I'd be honored to assist anyone in the journey with mental health wellness. Who said games are for kids?Therapy Uno anyone?
Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Trauma, Mood Disorders, and ADHD are just a few of the areas I can be of assistance.
I may be a counselor but I'm always Jasmine. I bring my authentic self to each session so my clients can feel safe to do the same. I strive to meet my clients where they are and assist them in gaining the tools they need to accomplish whatever goals they have set for themselves and become the version of themselves they desire. I don't believe in the "one size fits all" method and truly tailor not only my approach for that client based on their needs but also each session. I'd be honored to assist anyone in the journey with mental health wellness. Who said games are for kids?Therapy Uno anyone?
(678) 203-3682 View (678) 203-3682
Photo of Nathan Mascaro, PhD, ABPP, Psychologist
Nathan Mascaro
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30307
I am an ABPP certified psychologist providing evidence-based psychotherapy to people ages 17+. Having practiced in Georgia since 2007 when I completed my postdoctoral fellowship in Clinical Psychology at Emory University, I've worked in private practice and hospital settings for 15+ years treating depression, anxiety (including OCD, panic, phobias, and chronic worry/GAD), PTSD and other trauma or grief related issues, bipolar disorder, insomnia, and issues related to meaning/purpose and existential distress. I work with individuals from late adolescence through older adulthood across the continua of gender, ethnicity, and faith.
I am an ABPP certified psychologist providing evidence-based psychotherapy to people ages 17+. Having practiced in Georgia since 2007 when I completed my postdoctoral fellowship in Clinical Psychology at Emory University, I've worked in private practice and hospital settings for 15+ years treating depression, anxiety (including OCD, panic, phobias, and chronic worry/GAD), PTSD and other trauma or grief related issues, bipolar disorder, insomnia, and issues related to meaning/purpose and existential distress. I work with individuals from late adolescence through older adulthood across the continua of gender, ethnicity, and faith.
(404) 390-4843 View (404) 390-4843
Photo of Denise Spear, LPC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Denise Spear
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LPC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30309
Denise Spear, LPC Denise Spear is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Georgia who has been practicing since 2023. She has a dual Master's Degree in Psychology and Professional Counseling. Denise strives to provide a warm and welcoming environment for all to thrive and to help become your most authentic self. She takes pride in meeting you exactly where you are and creating a space that is both validating and challenging. Denise's areas of specialty include ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar, Couples Issues, Depression, Autism Spectrum, Gender Identity, Stress, LGBTQ2+ Related Issues, Relationship Issues and PTSD/Trauma.
Denise Spear, LPC Denise Spear is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Georgia who has been practicing since 2023. She has a dual Master's Degree in Psychology and Professional Counseling. Denise strives to provide a warm and welcoming environment for all to thrive and to help become your most authentic self. She takes pride in meeting you exactly where you are and creating a space that is both validating and challenging. Denise's areas of specialty include ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar, Couples Issues, Depression, Autism Spectrum, Gender Identity, Stress, LGBTQ2+ Related Issues, Relationship Issues and PTSD/Trauma.
(404) 856-0486 View (404) 856-0486
Photo of Frank Busbey, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Frank Busbey
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30312
My name is Frank Busbey, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor working remotely with clients across the state of Georgia. My aim is to help people heal from life's wounds and grow in personal strength. I have training in using clients' faith to help in the therapeutic process and also work with clients seeking non-faith-based therapy and counseling. I work with adults dealing with life issues such as depression, anxiety, grief, marital issues, obsessive-compulsive disorder, bipolar disorder, and codependency. Some of my most rewarding work has been with military veterans. Couples therapy is another area of focus in my practice.
My name is Frank Busbey, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor working remotely with clients across the state of Georgia. My aim is to help people heal from life's wounds and grow in personal strength. I have training in using clients' faith to help in the therapeutic process and also work with clients seeking non-faith-based therapy and counseling. I work with adults dealing with life issues such as depression, anxiety, grief, marital issues, obsessive-compulsive disorder, bipolar disorder, and codependency. Some of my most rewarding work has been with military veterans. Couples therapy is another area of focus in my practice.
(470) 577-8185 View (470) 577-8185
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.