Bipolar Disorder Treatment Centers in Canton, CT

Photo of Family Resource & Development Center, LLC, Treatment Center in Canton, CT
Family Resource & Development Center, LLC
Treatment Center
Verified Verified
Canton, CT 06019
Family Resource & Development Center, LLC provides individual, family, couples, and group therapy services to children, adolescents and adults in the Greater Hartford Community. We have a unique group of mental health professionals who support young people and their families through the challenges of our ever-changing communities. Our therapists collaborate with parents, schools, and other community professionals to provide consistent expectations that can translate to success in each environment.
Family Resource & Development Center, LLC provides individual, family, couples, and group therapy services to children, adolescents and adults in the Greater Hartford Community. We have a unique group of mental health professionals who support young people and their families through the challenges of our ever-changing communities. Our therapists collaborate with parents, schools, and other community professionals to provide consistent expectations that can translate to success in each environment.
(860) 856-5667 View (860) 856-5667

More Treatment Centers Nearby

Photo of Integrative Healthcare Center, Treatment Center in Canton, CT
Integrative Healthcare Center
Treatment Center
Verified Verified
West Hartford, CT 06107
Psychiatric Services for Adults and Children—We treat major depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and more using prescribed medication and scientifically valid therapies.
Integrative Healthcare Center—for mental health and behavioral health. We offer licensed therapists, prescription management, psychiatry, autism care, and more. Integrative medicine, as defined by the U.S. Government’s National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, explores many treatment avenues, working with patients to heal the whole person, not just one organ system. Integrative Healthcare Center fills a void in the healthcare landscape. Mental health services are hard to find. With providers scarce and in demand, even established patients find themselves waiting months for treatment. Bringing together proven treatment methods, traditional and nontraditional, IHC exists to bring you the care you need, when you need it. Integrative Healthcare Center improves quality of life for clients by using proven treatments to make psychiatric services, autism care and wellness therapies available, affordable and accessible to everyone.
Psychiatric Services for Adults and Children—We treat major depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and more using prescribed medication and scientifically valid therapies.
Integrative Healthcare Center—for mental health and behavioral health. We offer licensed therapists, prescription management, psychiatry, autism care, and more. Integrative medicine, as defined by the U.S. Government’s National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, explores many treatment avenues, working with patients to heal the whole person, not just one organ system. Integrative Healthcare Center fills a void in the healthcare landscape. Mental health services are hard to find. With providers scarce and in demand, even established patients find themselves waiting months for treatment. Bringing together proven treatment methods, traditional and nontraditional, IHC exists to bring you the care you need, when you need it. Integrative Healthcare Center improves quality of life for clients by using proven treatments to make psychiatric services, autism care and wellness therapies available, affordable and accessible to everyone.
(603) 952-3823 View (603) 952-3823
Photo of Acera Health - Outpatient Mental Health Treatment, Treatment Center in Canton, CT
Acera Health - Outpatient Mental Health Treatment
Treatment Center
Verified Verified
West Hartford, CT 06117
We all want to live a life that we love. However, sometimes it can be difficult to figure out where to turn when life gets tough. That's where Acera Health comes in. We offer a range of services to help restore your mind and transform your life. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, or addiction, we are here to support you every step of the way. We know that change can be difficult but, with our help, it is possible for you to create lasting change in your life. Contact us today so that we can get started on helping you create the life you've always wanted. You deserve to live a life that you love, and we are here to help make that happen.
We all want to live a life that we love. However, sometimes it can be difficult to figure out where to turn when life gets tough. That's where Acera Health comes in. We offer a range of services to help restore your mind and transform your life. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, or addiction, we are here to support you every step of the way. We know that change can be difficult but, with our help, it is possible for you to create lasting change in your life. Contact us today so that we can get started on helping you create the life you've always wanted. You deserve to live a life that you love, and we are here to help make that happen.
(949) 676-8551 View (949) 676-8551
Photo of LEO Clinic, Treatment Center in Canton, CT
LEO Clinic
Treatment Center
Verified Verified
Bloomfield, CT 06002
Welcome to LEO Clinic, where your well-being is our top priority. Our clinic takes a unique approach by seamlessly integrating behavioral health and primary care services, designed to cater to your distinct needs. We recognize that mental and physical health are interconnected, and our mission is to provide you with comprehensive care that nurtures both aspects of your overall well-being. Welcome to LEO Clinic, where your well-being is our top priority. Our clinic takes a unique approach by seamlessly integrating behavioral health and primary care services, designed to cater to your distinct needs. We recognize that mental and physical health are interconnected, and our mission is to provide you with comprehensive care that nurtures both aspects of your overall well-being. Who We Serve: Individuals facing mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, and stress. Those managing chronic conditions, such as diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease. Anyone seeking preventive care to maintain overall health and well-being.
Welcome to LEO Clinic, where your well-being is our top priority. Our clinic takes a unique approach by seamlessly integrating behavioral health and primary care services, designed to cater to your distinct needs. We recognize that mental and physical health are interconnected, and our mission is to provide you with comprehensive care that nurtures both aspects of your overall well-being. Welcome to LEO Clinic, where your well-being is our top priority. Our clinic takes a unique approach by seamlessly integrating behavioral health and primary care services, designed to cater to your distinct needs. We recognize that mental and physical health are interconnected, and our mission is to provide you with comprehensive care that nurtures both aspects of your overall well-being. Who We Serve: Individuals facing mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, and stress. Those managing chronic conditions, such as diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease. Anyone seeking preventive care to maintain overall health and well-being.
(860) 891-2435 View (860) 891-2435
Photo of Pinnacle Behavioral Health, Treatment Center in Canton, CT
Pinnacle Behavioral Health
Treatment Center, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
West Hartford, CT 06117
Pinnacle Behavioral Health is an Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) for adolescents ages 11-18 and young adults ages 18-25. We work with individuals who are struggling with mood and anxiety disorders as well as maladaptive behaviors such as self injury, school refusal, suicidal ideation, defiance, and other destructive behaviors. Our Young Adult program specializes in helping patients balance the demands of academic, social, and professional life. All programs offer intensive DBT didactic skill training, medication management with a Board Certified Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatrist, individualized treatment plans based on the specific needs of each patient and family, as well as our 24/7 crisis support line. The support line allows patients and families to reach out to familiar clinicians outside of programming hours who can assist them with crisis management to reduce destructive behavior patterns and avoid hospitalization.
Pinnacle Behavioral Health is an Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) for adolescents ages 11-18 and young adults ages 18-25. We work with individuals who are struggling with mood and anxiety disorders as well as maladaptive behaviors such as self injury, school refusal, suicidal ideation, defiance, and other destructive behaviors. Our Young Adult program specializes in helping patients balance the demands of academic, social, and professional life. All programs offer intensive DBT didactic skill training, medication management with a Board Certified Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatrist, individualized treatment plans based on the specific needs of each patient and family, as well as our 24/7 crisis support line. The support line allows patients and families to reach out to familiar clinicians outside of programming hours who can assist them with crisis management to reduce destructive behavior patterns and avoid hospitalization.
(860) 879-3585 View (860) 879-3585
Photo of High Focus Centers - Farmington, Treatment Center in Canton, CT
High Focus Centers - Farmington
Treatment Center
Verified Verified
Farmington, CT 06032
Our experienced clinical team uses evidence-based therapeutic models to help teenagers address depression, anxiety, self-harm and other mental health conditions, as well as co-occurring disorders. High Focus Centers offers two levels of structured outpatient programs to accommodate a variety of needs: partial hospitalization (full-day) and intensive outpatient (half-day).
Our experienced clinical team uses evidence-based therapeutic models to help teenagers address depression, anxiety, self-harm and other mental health conditions, as well as co-occurring disorders. High Focus Centers offers two levels of structured outpatient programs to accommodate a variety of needs: partial hospitalization (full-day) and intensive outpatient (half-day).
(860) 650-1977 View (860) 650-1977
The Bridge Family Center
Treatment Center, LMFT, LCSW, LMFTA, MSW
Verified Verified
West Hartford, CT 06110
The Bridge Family Counseling Center is here to help you at every stage of life. With locations in West Hartford, Avon, and Rockville each counseling center offers therapy treatments to address a broad range of concerns for children, teens, adults, couples, and families. We focus on issues such as: depression and anxiety, grief, PTSD, substance abuse, divorce and marriage counseling, anger management, identity/LGBTQIA+ related journeys, and behavioral challenges. We have openings for both in-person and telehealth appointments at all locations. Medication management is available to those who are engaged in services. To schedule an appointment, call 860.313.1119 M-F 8am-5:30pm or visit our website.
The Bridge Family Counseling Center is here to help you at every stage of life. With locations in West Hartford, Avon, and Rockville each counseling center offers therapy treatments to address a broad range of concerns for children, teens, adults, couples, and families. We focus on issues such as: depression and anxiety, grief, PTSD, substance abuse, divorce and marriage counseling, anger management, identity/LGBTQIA+ related journeys, and behavioral challenges. We have openings for both in-person and telehealth appointments at all locations. Medication management is available to those who are engaged in services. To schedule an appointment, call 860.313.1119 M-F 8am-5:30pm or visit our website.
(860) 613-6084 View (860) 613-6084
Photo of Blue Hills Recovery , Treatment Center in Canton, CT
Blue Hills Recovery
Treatment Center, LMHC
Not Verified Not Verified
Avon, CT 06001
Situated in a welcoming tree-lined neighborhood just two blocks from Indian Lake in Worcester, Blue Hills Recovery offers a comprehensive range of highly personalized, compassionate, and effective mental health and substance use disorder treatment services. Our inviting, newly updated center offers a Day Treatment Program (PHP), Intensive Outpatient (IOP), and outpatient levels of care as well as case management, medication management, and a variety of holistic therapy programs. Whether you're battling a substance use disorder, suffering from depression, or struggling with another behavioral health concern, our flexible programs are designed to accommodate your lifestyle and promote hope, healing and recovery. Our dedicated staff of professionals is here to support you - every step of the way.
Situated in a welcoming tree-lined neighborhood just two blocks from Indian Lake in Worcester, Blue Hills Recovery offers a comprehensive range of highly personalized, compassionate, and effective mental health and substance use disorder treatment services. Our inviting, newly updated center offers a Day Treatment Program (PHP), Intensive Outpatient (IOP), and outpatient levels of care as well as case management, medication management, and a variety of holistic therapy programs. Whether you're battling a substance use disorder, suffering from depression, or struggling with another behavioral health concern, our flexible programs are designed to accommodate your lifestyle and promote hope, healing and recovery. Our dedicated staff of professionals is here to support you - every step of the way.
(508) 206-9033 View (508) 206-9033

Online Treatment Centers

Photo of Wellspring Residential Program-Girls & Adult Women, Treatment Center in Canton, CT
Wellspring Residential Program-Girls & Adult Women
Treatment Center
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethlehem, CT 06751
Typical client profile includes mood disorders, depression, dysthymia, bipolar disorders, anxiety disorders, generalized anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, PTSD, borderline personality disorders, attachment disorder, self-injurious behaviors.
Founded in 1977, Wellspring is a residential treatment center for adolescent girls and young adult women and gender diverse individuals struggling with mental health and relational issues. Wellspring's Arch Bridge School is a private therapeutic school for grades 7-12. It offers college prep academics with classroom support from mental health clinicians and special education teachers. Wellspring is accredited by The Joint Commission and NEASC, and approved by the departments of Education in Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Jersey and New York.
Typical client profile includes mood disorders, depression, dysthymia, bipolar disorders, anxiety disorders, generalized anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, PTSD, borderline personality disorders, attachment disorder, self-injurious behaviors.
Founded in 1977, Wellspring is a residential treatment center for adolescent girls and young adult women and gender diverse individuals struggling with mental health and relational issues. Wellspring's Arch Bridge School is a private therapeutic school for grades 7-12. It offers college prep academics with classroom support from mental health clinicians and special education teachers. Wellspring is accredited by The Joint Commission and NEASC, and approved by the departments of Education in Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Jersey and New York.
(203) 266-8000 View (203) 266-8000
Photo of Oceanside Recovery, LLC, Treatment Center in Canton, CT
Oceanside Recovery, LLC
Treatment Center, NP
Verified Verified
Niantic, CT 06357
“Bringing knowledge, compassion and care to your recovery”
“Bringing knowledge, compassion and care to your recovery”
(860) 691-0873 View (860) 691-0873
Photo of Stokes Counseling Services, Treatment Center in Canton, CT
Stokes Counseling Services
Treatment Center, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Naugatuck, CT 06770
Are you looking to find someone who can help you? Are you overwhelmed? Are you struggling with depression? Anxiety? Stress? We can help! Stokes Counseling Services is a private mental health practice made up of licensed therapists who provide counseling services to adults, children, couples, and families. We have an array of diverse therapists who are here to help you through this difficult time. We provide morning, evening, and weekend appointments to help work around your schedule and accept major insurances. Call us today to learn more about how we can help you and/or your family today!
Are you looking to find someone who can help you? Are you overwhelmed? Are you struggling with depression? Anxiety? Stress? We can help! Stokes Counseling Services is a private mental health practice made up of licensed therapists who provide counseling services to adults, children, couples, and families. We have an array of diverse therapists who are here to help you through this difficult time. We provide morning, evening, and weekend appointments to help work around your schedule and accept major insurances. Call us today to learn more about how we can help you and/or your family today!
(203) 567-4317 View (203) 567-4317
Photo of Newport Institute, Treatment Center in Canton, CT
Newport Institute
Treatment Center
Verified Verified
Fairfield, CT 06824
Our full continuum of care allows us to provide treatment that meets the needs of each unique individual —whether they are stepping down from a residential program, require a higher level of care, or are seeking ongoing structure and community through outpatient programming. Newport Institute has residential and outpatient locations around the country, in order to give as many young adults and families as possible access to the treatment they need to thrive. We provide industry-leading residential care, Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP), Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP), and outpatient services with flexible schedules, all accredited by the Joint Commission for Behavioral Healthcare, the nation’s most respected healthcare accreditation body. In addition, Newport Institute offers continuing connection once a patient leaves our care, through virtual sessions providing ongoing support for both young adults and parents; and through our robust Alumni program, which keeps former clients connected through online and in-person events and support groups.
Our full continuum of care allows us to provide treatment that meets the needs of each unique individual —whether they are stepping down from a residential program, require a higher level of care, or are seeking ongoing structure and community through outpatient programming. Newport Institute has residential and outpatient locations around the country, in order to give as many young adults and families as possible access to the treatment they need to thrive. We provide industry-leading residential care, Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP), Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP), and outpatient services with flexible schedules, all accredited by the Joint Commission for Behavioral Healthcare, the nation’s most respected healthcare accreditation body. In addition, Newport Institute offers continuing connection once a patient leaves our care, through virtual sessions providing ongoing support for both young adults and parents; and through our robust Alumni program, which keeps former clients connected through online and in-person events and support groups.
(475) 325-5634 View (475) 325-5634
Photo of Ellie Mental Health of Glastonbury, Treatment Center in Canton, CT
Ellie Mental Health of Glastonbury
Treatment Center, LPC
Verified Verified
Glastonbury, CT 06033
Ellie Mental Health of Glastonbury strives to fill the gaps in access to mental health through authentically fostering inclusive spaces that compassionately celebrate the diversity of our communities while staying determined to use every resources to provide equitable wellness outcomes for all. Ellie has many talented therapists who offer a variety of specialities and clinical focus addressing the needs of children, teens, adults, couples and families.
Ellie Mental Health of Glastonbury strives to fill the gaps in access to mental health through authentically fostering inclusive spaces that compassionately celebrate the diversity of our communities while staying determined to use every resources to provide equitable wellness outcomes for all. Ellie has many talented therapists who offer a variety of specialities and clinical focus addressing the needs of children, teens, adults, couples and families.
(860) 431-2933 View (860) 431-2933
Photo of Continuum Recovery Services, Treatment Center in Canton, CT
Continuum Recovery Services
Treatment Center, LCSW
Verified Verified
New Haven, CT 06519
Continuum Recovery Services (CRS) at Continuum of Care consists of 4 levels of residential treatment and care for adults ages 18 and up who are challenged with mental health and potentially co-occurring disorders. Clients can access treatment to any of these levels of care and move to a higher or a lower level of care as their needs change. Continuum offers short-term and long-term residential treatment in an intimate personalized setting. Clients live in a home-like setting that provides low stimulation compared to traditional institutional settings. Continuum believes each path to mental health recovery is a unique and extraordinary journey. We are an inclusive community, dedicated to working with those searching for their path to recovery. We provide a safe, nurturing home environment designed to assist you in regaining connections, meaning, and hope, and a new life of recovery. Our unique wellness centered approach is embedded in our programs to assist you in all paths to stabilization and rebuilding the mind, body and spirit.
Continuum Recovery Services (CRS) at Continuum of Care consists of 4 levels of residential treatment and care for adults ages 18 and up who are challenged with mental health and potentially co-occurring disorders. Clients can access treatment to any of these levels of care and move to a higher or a lower level of care as their needs change. Continuum offers short-term and long-term residential treatment in an intimate personalized setting. Clients live in a home-like setting that provides low stimulation compared to traditional institutional settings. Continuum believes each path to mental health recovery is a unique and extraordinary journey. We are an inclusive community, dedicated to working with those searching for their path to recovery. We provide a safe, nurturing home environment designed to assist you in regaining connections, meaning, and hope, and a new life of recovery. Our unique wellness centered approach is embedded in our programs to assist you in all paths to stabilization and rebuilding the mind, body and spirit.
(203) 493-2744 View (203) 493-2744
Photo of Reliant Behavioral Health and Community Services , Treatment Center in Canton, CT
Reliant Behavioral Health and Community Services
Treatment Center, OWNER/C, 4333553
Verified Verified
New Haven, CT 06511
We strive to provide practical and purposeful services for all through a holistic and systemic based approach. Our goal is to increase its focus on health and wellness of all populations from birth to geriatrics
We strive to provide practical and purposeful services for all through a holistic and systemic based approach. Our goal is to increase its focus on health and wellness of all populations from birth to geriatrics
(475) 255-6535 x1 View (475) 255-6535 x1
Photo of Discovery Mood & Anxiety Program, Treatment Center in Canton, CT
Discovery Mood & Anxiety Program
Treatment Center
Verified Verified
Stamford, CT 06905
Since 1997, Discovery Mood & Anxiety Program has been helping thousands of patients build the confidence and skills they need to better navigate life’s challenges. We look at the person, not the diagnosis. We reveal what’s possible for those who have experienced a history of depression, anxiety or other mood disorders. With evidence-based treatment, complementary modalities, family therapy and ongoing support, we utilize our world-class continuum of care to turn lives around.
Since 1997, Discovery Mood & Anxiety Program has been helping thousands of patients build the confidence and skills they need to better navigate life’s challenges. We look at the person, not the diagnosis. We reveal what’s possible for those who have experienced a history of depression, anxiety or other mood disorders. With evidence-based treatment, complementary modalities, family therapy and ongoing support, we utilize our world-class continuum of care to turn lives around.
(833) 799-0419 View (833) 799-0419
Photo of Elevate Health and Wellness, Treatment Center in Canton, CT
Elevate Health and Wellness
Treatment Center, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westport, CT 06880
Outpatient detoxification from alcohol or drugs allows clients to continue fulfilling their professional, educational, and family responsibilities while detoxing from the comfort of their own home. Those interested in outpatient detox are thoroughly assessed by our medical team that specializes in addiction treatment. After undergoing a thorough assessment, clients receive recommendations based upon their unique circumstances and ability to function outside of a medically monitored treatment setting. Outpatient detox is not appropriate for everyone and clients will be thoroughly assessed.
Outpatient detoxification from alcohol or drugs allows clients to continue fulfilling their professional, educational, and family responsibilities while detoxing from the comfort of their own home. Those interested in outpatient detox are thoroughly assessed by our medical team that specializes in addiction treatment. After undergoing a thorough assessment, clients receive recommendations based upon their unique circumstances and ability to function outside of a medically monitored treatment setting. Outpatient detox is not appropriate for everyone and clients will be thoroughly assessed.
(475) 897-5358 View (475) 897-5358
Photo of Silver Hill Hospital, Treatment Center in Canton, CT
Silver Hill Hospital
Treatment Center
Verified Verified
New Canaan, CT 06840
Established in 1931, Silver Hill Hospital is one of the nation’s preeminent private psychiatric hospitals. Located on 44 scenic acres in New Canaan, CT, it is widely recognized for the excellence of its mental health and addiction services for adults and adolescents. The hospital is accredited by the Joint Commission.
Established in 1931, Silver Hill Hospital is one of the nation’s preeminent private psychiatric hospitals. Located on 44 scenic acres in New Canaan, CT, it is widely recognized for the excellence of its mental health and addiction services for adults and adolescents. The hospital is accredited by the Joint Commission.
(475) 283-9563 View (475) 283-9563
Photo of Turnbridge, Treatment Center in Canton, CT
Turnbridge
Treatment Center
Verified Verified
New Haven, CT 06510
Turnbridge® has helped thousands of young adults and teens recover from mental health disorders and addictions. Since its founding in 2003, Turnbridge has been positively transforming the lives through a comprehensive approach to mental health and substance abuse treatment that integrates intensive therapy, health and wellness training, recreational experiences, and academic/vocational counseling.
Turnbridge® has helped thousands of young adults and teens recover from mental health disorders and addictions. Since its founding in 2003, Turnbridge has been positively transforming the lives through a comprehensive approach to mental health and substance abuse treatment that integrates intensive therapy, health and wellness training, recreational experiences, and academic/vocational counseling.
(203) 427-8256 View (203) 427-8256
Photo of Tides of Mind Counseling, Treatment Center in Canton, CT
Tides of Mind Counseling
Treatment Center, LMHC
Verified Verified
Middletown, CT 06457
Tides of Mind Counseling is a group of top private counseling centers dedicated to providing high-quality mental health services to adults, children and families in Rhode Island and Connecticut. We also provide online (telehealth) counseling services as a safety precaution during the pandemic, and to clients who have trouble accessing the office due to transportation, childcare or healthcare limitations. The professionals at Tides of Mind Counseling are licensed and specifically trained to help you explore a deeper understanding of yourself. With our therapeutic services, you will be able to navigate your personal situation and find your inner compass, allowing you to take charge and command the direction of your life.
Tides of Mind Counseling is a group of top private counseling centers dedicated to providing high-quality mental health services to adults, children and families in Rhode Island and Connecticut. We also provide online (telehealth) counseling services as a safety precaution during the pandemic, and to clients who have trouble accessing the office due to transportation, childcare or healthcare limitations. The professionals at Tides of Mind Counseling are licensed and specifically trained to help you explore a deeper understanding of yourself. With our therapeutic services, you will be able to navigate your personal situation and find your inner compass, allowing you to take charge and command the direction of your life.
(401) 208-2492 View (401) 208-2492

Bipolar Disorder Treatment Centers

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.