Bipolar Disorder Counselling in Exeter
![Photo of John Doré, MBACP, Counsellor](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/74513d44-2003-4257-9518-9c47131b2fe8/1/320x400.jpeg)
I specialise in the following areas although I recognise that each of us is unique and life's challenges and difficulties cannot always be easily categorised: Stress Anxiety/Generalised Anxiety Disorder, Depression, Bereavement, Trauma, Couples counselling, Abuse, Low self-esteem, Bipolar, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Sexuality, General counselling.
Coming to counselling can feel a little daunting; sharing some of our private thoughts and feelings with someone that we do not know can be hard and can feel a little strange. I will help to make you feel comfortable and at ease by offering you a safe, confidential space for you to talk openly, and at a pace that suits you. I am committed to ensuring that you will feel heard, accepted and understood and I will make every effort to appreciate what it is like to be you and to help you understand your feelings and emotions.
I specialise in the following areas although I recognise that each of us is unique and life's challenges and difficulties cannot always be easily categorised: Stress Anxiety/Generalised Anxiety Disorder, Depression, Bereavement, Trauma, Couples counselling, Abuse, Low self-esteem, Bipolar, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Sexuality, General counselling.
Coming to counselling can feel a little daunting; sharing some of our private thoughts and feelings with someone that we do not know can be hard and can feel a little strange. I will help to make you feel comfortable and at ease by offering you a safe, confidential space for you to talk openly, and at a pace that suits you. I am committed to ensuring that you will feel heard, accepted and understood and I will make every effort to appreciate what it is like to be you and to help you understand your feelings and emotions.
![Photo of Katrina J Campbell-Crocker, MBACP, Counsellor](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/b40a9336-377d-4e73-9967-4ef44b077576/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have additional diplomas in;•PTSD,•MH Awareness, •BPD •Attachment Theory•Understanding PTSD•Understanding Suicide•Factitious Disorder Imposed on Another•Bipolar Disorder•Understanding BPD•Understanding Cutting & Self Harm•Mindfulness for CYP&Adults.
Hiya my name is Katrina; I am a fully qualified counsellor with experience of counselling Adults & Young People (From 13yrs). I support a range of counselling conditions; •Attachment Disorders •Anxiety & Depression •Abuse •Bereavement & Loss •Childhood Trauma •Domestic Violence •Disability Discrimination •Low Self Esteem •Low Self Worth • Mental Health Complexities •Narcissistic Personality Disorder •Personality Disorders •Post Traumatic Stress Disorder •Racial identity •Separation Anxiety & Trauma. I believe that we all have the right speak & be heard in a safe space.
I have additional diplomas in;•PTSD,•MH Awareness, •BPD •Attachment Theory•Understanding PTSD•Understanding Suicide•Factitious Disorder Imposed on Another•Bipolar Disorder•Understanding BPD•Understanding Cutting & Self Harm•Mindfulness for CYP&Adults.
Hiya my name is Katrina; I am a fully qualified counsellor with experience of counselling Adults & Young People (From 13yrs). I support a range of counselling conditions; •Attachment Disorders •Anxiety & Depression •Abuse •Bereavement & Loss •Childhood Trauma •Domestic Violence •Disability Discrimination •Low Self Esteem •Low Self Worth • Mental Health Complexities •Narcissistic Personality Disorder •Personality Disorders •Post Traumatic Stress Disorder •Racial identity •Separation Anxiety & Trauma. I believe that we all have the right speak & be heard in a safe space.
![Photo of Fee Jane Cockings, MBACP, Counsellor](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/f012ae55-2f3d-47cc-80a5-81357c61ad9f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Do you want to journey towards your optimum mental health and wellbeing; to discover newfound inner resources?I am passionate about supporting you towards the future you wish to create, for yourself
Do you want to journey towards your optimum mental health and wellbeing; to discover newfound inner resources?I am passionate about supporting you towards the future you wish to create, for yourself
![Photo of Jennifer Smith, PhD, BACP, Psychotherapist](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/72980e89-f2ec-4ff4-8ee4-8f0ee134950b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Smith
Psychotherapist, PhD, BACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Exeter EX4
Waitlist for new clients
I offer one-to one Psychodynamic, Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy. This is a well established and evidence-based talking therapy that can effectively treat emotional problems as well as a wide range of mental health conditions including: anxiety, depression and eating disorders. Sessions are booked for the same time every week and range from single to up to three sessions a week. They provide the space to talk about and reflect upon your emotional and relationship difficulties. These are thought about as they relate to your present circumstances but in this type of therapy, they are also considered in relation to your life history.
I offer one-to one Psychodynamic, Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy. This is a well established and evidence-based talking therapy that can effectively treat emotional problems as well as a wide range of mental health conditions including: anxiety, depression and eating disorders. Sessions are booked for the same time every week and range from single to up to three sessions a week. They provide the space to talk about and reflect upon your emotional and relationship difficulties. These are thought about as they relate to your present circumstances but in this type of therapy, they are also considered in relation to your life history.
![Photo of Maria Alda Gomez Otero, MA, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/287acedc-d814-4a46-8bc8-1729b0ee1765/3/320x400.jpeg)
If you are struggling with anxiety, relationship challenges, or an inner restlessness you can't seem to quiet, you might be facing the effects of past traumas, including sexual abuse, childhood neglect, or early attachment issues, as well as transgenerational, collective or pre-birth trauma, that ripple through your everyday life. If your goal is profound healing — to finally feel at ease within your own skin and to unlock the potential that lives in you, you have taken the first step into building a new version of yourself.
If you are struggling with anxiety, relationship challenges, or an inner restlessness you can't seem to quiet, you might be facing the effects of past traumas, including sexual abuse, childhood neglect, or early attachment issues, as well as transgenerational, collective or pre-birth trauma, that ripple through your everyday life. If your goal is profound healing — to finally feel at ease within your own skin and to unlock the potential that lives in you, you have taken the first step into building a new version of yourself.
![Photo of Charlotte Mizen, MSc, MBACP Accred, Counsellor](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/3645be4f-c257-4c7e-8a12-6fb36873c44d/2/320x400.jpeg)
We all experience difficult and painful times in life which sometimes feel too hard or overwhelming to manage alone. I have trained and worked as a counsellor and latterly as a psychotherapist with over ten years of clinical experience in private practice, a local therapeutic institution, and as an honorary psychotherapist in the NHS. Depression, anxiety, stress, loss and separation are some of the more difficult issues we come up against in life which can seriously impact the way we live our lives. My approach is psychoanalytically oriented with a focus on increasing self understanding and deepening insight into emotional issues
We all experience difficult and painful times in life which sometimes feel too hard or overwhelming to manage alone. I have trained and worked as a counsellor and latterly as a psychotherapist with over ten years of clinical experience in private practice, a local therapeutic institution, and as an honorary psychotherapist in the NHS. Depression, anxiety, stress, loss and separation are some of the more difficult issues we come up against in life which can seriously impact the way we live our lives. My approach is psychoanalytically oriented with a focus on increasing self understanding and deepening insight into emotional issues
![Photo of Paula Bowen-Scott, MBACP, Counsellor](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/57c3f03e-39c4-4d24-8100-b27a48c01d2e/2/320x400.jpeg)
I work mainly with adults from all walks of life, all looking to find a more meaningful and fulfilling way of living. Whatever your issues are, together we will explore why you are feeling this way, and work towards change. We will look at what has led to your current issues and what it is you are looking for in order to create those changes. I have a lot of experience working not only face to face but also online and via phone. There is always a choice of a better way of feeling but we sometimes get stuck and unable to find a way forward alone. I can help you to untangle how you are feeling and clear the way for a new path.
I work mainly with adults from all walks of life, all looking to find a more meaningful and fulfilling way of living. Whatever your issues are, together we will explore why you are feeling this way, and work towards change. We will look at what has led to your current issues and what it is you are looking for in order to create those changes. I have a lot of experience working not only face to face but also online and via phone. There is always a choice of a better way of feeling but we sometimes get stuck and unable to find a way forward alone. I can help you to untangle how you are feeling and clear the way for a new path.
![Photo of Laura Jayne Sollis, MBACP, Counsellor](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/51f7ab18-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Do you feel stuck, anxious or overwhelmed? Perhaps worry, lack of confidence or low self esteem is having a negative effect on your life, causing you to feel isolated and alone. Talking to loved one about what we are experiencing can feel difficult, we worry that we are putting to much on them or we don't want them to worry about us. Talking to a counsellor can be really helpful at these times and can show a way forward. However I understand that a good counselling relationship is vital to support you in moving toward your goals.
Do you feel stuck, anxious or overwhelmed? Perhaps worry, lack of confidence or low self esteem is having a negative effect on your life, causing you to feel isolated and alone. Talking to loved one about what we are experiencing can feel difficult, we worry that we are putting to much on them or we don't want them to worry about us. Talking to a counsellor can be really helpful at these times and can show a way forward. However I understand that a good counselling relationship is vital to support you in moving toward your goals.
![Photo of Jane Meares, MBACP, Counsellor](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/5cae10a0-e8d5-418c-a77d-280a164aaf5e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Do you put on a brave face but feel different on the inside? Perhaps you’re empty and numb, or overwhelmed by emotions? Are you finding it hard to cope day-to-day? I know how tough life can be at times and how lonely it feels when no one seems to understand. If you’re wondering when you’ll feel happy or hopeful again, or you’re worrying about the future and fearing the worst, or maybe you’re struggling with a big change and a sense of who you are; I’d like to help. Being able to talk freely to someone, without fear of judgement or shame, can be a huge relief.
Do you put on a brave face but feel different on the inside? Perhaps you’re empty and numb, or overwhelmed by emotions? Are you finding it hard to cope day-to-day? I know how tough life can be at times and how lonely it feels when no one seems to understand. If you’re wondering when you’ll feel happy or hopeful again, or you’re worrying about the future and fearing the worst, or maybe you’re struggling with a big change and a sense of who you are; I’d like to help. Being able to talk freely to someone, without fear of judgement or shame, can be a huge relief.
![Photo of Heather Beveridge, MSc, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/c8f0ee02-0e45-4d02-a918-6f1bdf2df676/1/320x400.jpeg)
Is your life overwhelming? Is your mental health suffering?Do you feel that you need to offload and share whatever difficulties you may be facing? Are you are looking for a counsellor or psychotherapist that actively listens and understands? I am an experienced mental health practitioners and here to help. Sometimes children and young people get stuck and need a little help too. I also have a great deal of experience working with children and young people. When your child is struggling, trying to get help can feel an impossible task. I offer creative therapy without the stress of a long waiting list.
Is your life overwhelming? Is your mental health suffering?Do you feel that you need to offload and share whatever difficulties you may be facing? Are you are looking for a counsellor or psychotherapist that actively listens and understands? I am an experienced mental health practitioners and here to help. Sometimes children and young people get stuck and need a little help too. I also have a great deal of experience working with children and young people. When your child is struggling, trying to get help can feel an impossible task. I offer creative therapy without the stress of a long waiting list.
![Photo of Hannah Marie Galvin, MA, ACP, Psychotherapist](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/3ecd291a-76e4-4f7f-82ce-90e3587d5545/1/320x400.jpeg)
I'm a psychoanalytic psychotherapist trained to MA and Doctoral level respectively with adults and children and adolescents. I'm also a course tutor for a psychotherapy course at The Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust. I have experience of working across the age range with a wide variety of mild to moderate, sometimes more severe presenting problems. Some people see me because they're very unhappy, distressed or worried, others come because they want to understand themselves better and they're curious about why they encounter the same patterns.
I'm a psychoanalytic psychotherapist trained to MA and Doctoral level respectively with adults and children and adolescents. I'm also a course tutor for a psychotherapy course at The Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust. I have experience of working across the age range with a wide variety of mild to moderate, sometimes more severe presenting problems. Some people see me because they're very unhappy, distressed or worried, others come because they want to understand themselves better and they're curious about why they encounter the same patterns.
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![Photo of Charlotte Feeny, MBACP, Counsellor](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/a2e58c81-f20f-420b-b913-4e4dc3610a9b/3/320x400.jpeg)
We can all feel a bit overwhelmed at times: it might be the breakdown of a relationship, loss of a friendship, daily struggles or those horrible feelings of anxiety that just won’t go away. We might be feeling unhappy but we’re not sure why, we might feel life isn’t going the way we want it to whilst everyone else seems to be doing ok. Talking openly and feeling truly heard can be life changing: we can say all those things that keep going round in our heads, the issues that keep coming back time and again, and work towards understanding what’s going on, make changes and find some peace. Isn't that what we all want and deserve?
We can all feel a bit overwhelmed at times: it might be the breakdown of a relationship, loss of a friendship, daily struggles or those horrible feelings of anxiety that just won’t go away. We might be feeling unhappy but we’re not sure why, we might feel life isn’t going the way we want it to whilst everyone else seems to be doing ok. Talking openly and feeling truly heard can be life changing: we can say all those things that keep going round in our heads, the issues that keep coming back time and again, and work towards understanding what’s going on, make changes and find some peace. Isn't that what we all want and deserve?
![Photo of Kate Haskell, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/2e23f809-b298-46d6-b695-0158cbffb0db/1/320x400.jpeg)
Having space to talk about how I feel is a waste of time... said: No one ever! Counselling is all it is cracked up to be. Maybe you want to talk to someone but feel unable to share with family or friends. Perhaps you want to make sense of the feelings you are experiencing. People start to heal when they feel truly heard and, by talking things over with a qualified and professional counsellor, it could help you heal from past or present trauma. My approach is Person Centred Therapy and my style is relaxed and friendly. My counselling room is in Exeter with the squishiest chairs but I also work online so you can be comfortable in
Having space to talk about how I feel is a waste of time... said: No one ever! Counselling is all it is cracked up to be. Maybe you want to talk to someone but feel unable to share with family or friends. Perhaps you want to make sense of the feelings you are experiencing. People start to heal when they feel truly heard and, by talking things over with a qualified and professional counsellor, it could help you heal from past or present trauma. My approach is Person Centred Therapy and my style is relaxed and friendly. My counselling room is in Exeter with the squishiest chairs but I also work online so you can be comfortable in
![Photo of Renee Norris - Renee Norris Counselling, 1-2-1, Couples & 13+, MBACP, Counsellor](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/6d98aec3-71c8-4ad5-b10d-b2cb5adf04ff/3/320x400.jpeg)
Clients generally come to me when they are struggling with some aspect of their emotions, thoughts or behaviour. My aim is to help my client with accepting or changing some aspect of these three areas. Every client comes with unique issues and from my seat I view the issues as one, "a block in the road to wellness". I am keenly aware that all clients come with individual goals and I am here to help. Many of my clients use the phrase “I just want to feel better". This is my hope for everyone who engages with me in therapy. “TO FEEL BETTER” I offer confidentiality, openness and transparency at all times.
Clients generally come to me when they are struggling with some aspect of their emotions, thoughts or behaviour. My aim is to help my client with accepting or changing some aspect of these three areas. Every client comes with unique issues and from my seat I view the issues as one, "a block in the road to wellness". I am keenly aware that all clients come with individual goals and I am here to help. Many of my clients use the phrase “I just want to feel better". This is my hope for everyone who engages with me in therapy. “TO FEEL BETTER” I offer confidentiality, openness and transparency at all times.
![Photo of Dr Rebecca Evans, PsychD, HCPC - Health Psych., Psychologist](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/80ce458d-33ad-43c0-8d39-30086f2cf258/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, I am Becky a HCPC registered Applied Health Psychologist. I am trained in person-centred care, CBT, CFT, ACT, DBT, systemic and narrative therapy. I have supported people with chronic pain, neurodiversity, weight management, trauma, relationship difficulties and memory difficulties. I am an integrative psychologist, thus I use a range of different models and skills to meet the needs of each individual. I have worked with young children up to older adults. I have seen people individually, in couples or as a family. I have helped clients explore their struggles with anxiety, self-esteem, low-mood, bullying, bereavement, & loss.
Hello, I am Becky a HCPC registered Applied Health Psychologist. I am trained in person-centred care, CBT, CFT, ACT, DBT, systemic and narrative therapy. I have supported people with chronic pain, neurodiversity, weight management, trauma, relationship difficulties and memory difficulties. I am an integrative psychologist, thus I use a range of different models and skills to meet the needs of each individual. I have worked with young children up to older adults. I have seen people individually, in couples or as a family. I have helped clients explore their struggles with anxiety, self-esteem, low-mood, bullying, bereavement, & loss.
![Photo of Christine Martin, MBACP, Counsellor](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/add3e7fe-0567-4a7e-9cc9-9e3c0a97027e/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have a special interest in the transitions and dilemmas that can occur at any point during a woman’s life. These might include marrying; pregnancy; changes in role; relationship difficulties; and the challenges presented at menopause and during the aging process. It is common to experience uncertainty, confusion, fear, and pressure at times of change or loss. Depression and anxiety may emerge as well as other, less common mental health issues. Times of change or loss can be difficult for everyone. I work with all genders, without discrimination. It is not necessary to have a mental health diagnosis to benefit from our sessions.
I have a special interest in the transitions and dilemmas that can occur at any point during a woman’s life. These might include marrying; pregnancy; changes in role; relationship difficulties; and the challenges presented at menopause and during the aging process. It is common to experience uncertainty, confusion, fear, and pressure at times of change or loss. Depression and anxiety may emerge as well as other, less common mental health issues. Times of change or loss can be difficult for everyone. I work with all genders, without discrimination. It is not necessary to have a mental health diagnosis to benefit from our sessions.
![Photo of Sarah Pope - Sarah Pope Counselling / Counselling In Exeter , MSc, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/aad18c2c-249e-4faf-8a48-3dba752801b1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah Pope Counselling / Counselling In Exeter
Counsellor, MSc, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Exeter EX1
Are you facing challenges in life that seem overwhelming or difficult to navigate? Do you need an experienced counsellor and psychotherapist that can help? I’m an experienced mental health professional that will hear you and with empathy help you explore and understand the cause of your struggles. In addition to adults I work with children and young people who sometimes get stuck and struggle with their mental health and emotional wellbeing – as a parent it can be really difficult to navigate this. I help with a wide range of issues without the stress of a long waiting list or the need for a referral.
Are you facing challenges in life that seem overwhelming or difficult to navigate? Do you need an experienced counsellor and psychotherapist that can help? I’m an experienced mental health professional that will hear you and with empathy help you explore and understand the cause of your struggles. In addition to adults I work with children and young people who sometimes get stuck and struggle with their mental health and emotional wellbeing – as a parent it can be really difficult to navigate this. I help with a wide range of issues without the stress of a long waiting list or the need for a referral.
![Photo of Debbie Lavinchi - Two's-Talking Counselling & Supervision Service, MBACP, Counsellor](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/c24954f8-fe15-45fc-b0a3-a42cb0d80f79/2/320x400.jpeg)
Two's-Talking Counselling & Supervision Service
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Exeter EX2
My name is Debbie and I am a registered therapist with BACP and NCS. I offer counselling face to face, online or via a telephone service. I work with person/s over the age of eight years old. I can help you with stress, anxiety/depression, anger, bereavement, relationships, abuse and couple's therapy. I understand you want to see a therapist as soon as you make that decision to do so. I will validate your feelings and i will acknowledge how distressing you are experiencing your life right now. I want to help you and I aim to see you within 7 working days. My goal is to get you to where you want to be.
My name is Debbie and I am a registered therapist with BACP and NCS. I offer counselling face to face, online or via a telephone service. I work with person/s over the age of eight years old. I can help you with stress, anxiety/depression, anger, bereavement, relationships, abuse and couple's therapy. I understand you want to see a therapist as soon as you make that decision to do so. I will validate your feelings and i will acknowledge how distressing you are experiencing your life right now. I want to help you and I aim to see you within 7 working days. My goal is to get you to where you want to be.
![Photo of Agnieszka Agnes Zalewska - Agnieszka (Agnes) Zalewska, Psychoanalysis, MA, BPC, Psychotherapist](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/6e6648fb-1778-4726-bfa2-2bbd23f9fed4/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am accredited psychoanalytic psychotherapist, training psychoanalytic psychotherapist approved by the leading providers of training in psychodynamic and psychoanalytic psychotherapy, and a supervisor. I offer a non-judgmental space to talk and think, for how long it is needed, with the minimum frequency of 1-3 sessions per week.
I am accredited psychoanalytic psychotherapist, training psychoanalytic psychotherapist approved by the leading providers of training in psychodynamic and psychoanalytic psychotherapy, and a supervisor. I offer a non-judgmental space to talk and think, for how long it is needed, with the minimum frequency of 1-3 sessions per week.
![Photo of Judy Gibbons, MBACP, Counsellor](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/6a4bd9c0-4087-4eea-ba95-c9611f5ff11b/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a qualified and experienced Integrative counsellor and Internal Family Systems therapist, working with adults across a wide range of life's challenges in the Exeter area and on-line. I hope to encourage self-acceptance as a good enough person, quietening the inner critic & bringing self-compassion to the relationship you have with yourself & transforming your relationship with others. Together, we can explore the feelings, thoughts & relational patterns that have been causing you distress. I can support you to gain a deeper understanding of the effects of past experiences & how these may impact your struggles in the present.
I am a qualified and experienced Integrative counsellor and Internal Family Systems therapist, working with adults across a wide range of life's challenges in the Exeter area and on-line. I hope to encourage self-acceptance as a good enough person, quietening the inner critic & bringing self-compassion to the relationship you have with yourself & transforming your relationship with others. Together, we can explore the feelings, thoughts & relational patterns that have been causing you distress. I can support you to gain a deeper understanding of the effects of past experiences & how these may impact your struggles in the present.
See more therapy options for Exeter
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Bipolar Disorder Counsellors
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.