Bipolar Disorder Psychiatrists in Mount Pleasant, SC

Photo of Mallory Darnell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Mount Pleasant, SC
Mallory Darnell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over five years of experience with children and adults, I am aware that all individuals are unique and bring with them their own experiences and beliefs. In our work together, I will provide you with an open and supportive environment, so you will feel comfortable sharing and discussing your concerns. I will partner with you in your treatment process and truly listen to ensure you meet your personal mental health goals. I believe in treating each of my patients with a holistic approach, incorporating lifestyle and medication changes when beneficial.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over five years of experience with children and adults, I am aware that all individuals are unique and bring with them their own experiences and beliefs. In our work together, I will provide you with an open and supportive environment, so you will feel comfortable sharing and discussing your concerns. I will partner with you in your treatment process and truly listen to ensure you meet your personal mental health goals. I believe in treating each of my patients with a holistic approach, incorporating lifestyle and medication changes when beneficial.
(843) 920-3183 View (843) 920-3183
Photo of Carla Warren, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Mount Pleasant, SC
Carla Warren
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
Hello, my name is Carla Warren and I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I am originally from New Jersey and have been living in South Carolina for over a decade now, and I absolutely love it. My personal philosophy includes the integration of social, cultural, spiritual and emotional values to treat the whole person. My objective is to implement evidence-based treatment to ensure high quality care and improved outcomes for my patients. I strongly believe that if my patient is not doing 90% better in 3 months, then I have missed something.
Hello, my name is Carla Warren and I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I am originally from New Jersey and have been living in South Carolina for over a decade now, and I absolutely love it. My personal philosophy includes the integration of social, cultural, spiritual and emotional values to treat the whole person. My objective is to implement evidence-based treatment to ensure high quality care and improved outcomes for my patients. I strongly believe that if my patient is not doing 90% better in 3 months, then I have missed something.
(843) 427-3068 View (843) 427-3068
Photo of Juniper Tree Counseling, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Mount Pleasant, SC
Juniper Tree Counseling, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, LPC
Verified Verified
Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
As a cognitive-behavioral therapist, my goal is to help you identify troubling thoughts that cause dysfunctional behaviors and emotional distress. We can work together to modify behaviors. I specialize in mood disorders, behavioral issues, anxiety disorders. sleep disorders, marital conflict, and problems secondary to chronic medical conditions. I provide psychotherapy and medication management for clients ages 6 to 75. If you're looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or you're just ready to move in a new direction in your life, please contact me for individual, couples or family therapy consultation today.
As a cognitive-behavioral therapist, my goal is to help you identify troubling thoughts that cause dysfunctional behaviors and emotional distress. We can work together to modify behaviors. I specialize in mood disorders, behavioral issues, anxiety disorders. sleep disorders, marital conflict, and problems secondary to chronic medical conditions. I provide psychotherapy and medication management for clients ages 6 to 75. If you're looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or you're just ready to move in a new direction in your life, please contact me for individual, couples or family therapy consultation today.
(843) 751-4477 View (843) 751-4477
Photo of Dr. Alex M McNabb, Psychiatrist in Mount Pleasant, SC
Dr. Alex M McNabb
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
To request an appointment, please go to mcnabbpsych.com and then click on the request appointment link. This is a required first step!
To request an appointment, please go to mcnabbpsych.com and then click on the request appointment link. This is a required first step!
(843) 608-0077 View (843) 608-0077
Photo of Casey Lee, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Mount Pleasant, SC
Casey Lee
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
Casey Lee is a registered Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She obtained her Bachelor's degree in Nursing Science from West Coast University in Orange County, CA and her Master's degree in Nursing Science from Northern Kentucky University. Casey focuses on evaluation, treatment, and medication management of a wide variety of mental health disorders including ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. Her clinical experience includes trauma and inpatient psychiatric nursing as an RN and outpatient psychiatric medication management as a Nurse Practitioner.
Casey Lee is a registered Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She obtained her Bachelor's degree in Nursing Science from West Coast University in Orange County, CA and her Master's degree in Nursing Science from Northern Kentucky University. Casey focuses on evaluation, treatment, and medication management of a wide variety of mental health disorders including ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. Her clinical experience includes trauma and inpatient psychiatric nursing as an RN and outpatient psychiatric medication management as a Nurse Practitioner.
(843) 894-3096 View (843) 894-3096
Photo of Sarah Dalechek, Psychiatrist in Mount Pleasant, SC
Sarah Dalechek
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
We offer collaborative and patient-centered care through the use of medication and therapy as forms of treatment for a wide array of mental health needs. Whether you have been experiencing mental health issues your whole life or have just recently developed disruptions in mood, anxiety, etc. we are here to assist you. Also, we help those who are stable on their current medication regimens with medication management appointments for ADHD, anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder just to name a few.
We offer collaborative and patient-centered care through the use of medication and therapy as forms of treatment for a wide array of mental health needs. Whether you have been experiencing mental health issues your whole life or have just recently developed disruptions in mood, anxiety, etc. we are here to assist you. Also, we help those who are stable on their current medication regimens with medication management appointments for ADHD, anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder just to name a few.
(843) 806-3401 View (843) 806-3401
Photo of Daniel J Balog, Psychiatrist in Mount Pleasant, SC
Daniel J Balog
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Mount Pleasant, SC 29466
Dr. Balog practices adult psychiatry and specializes in the treatment of Depressive Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Bipolar Disorders, Psychotic Disorders, and Trauma-Related Disorders. Dr. Balog aims to provide high quality, collaborative, and patient-centered care for patients 18+ years of age.
Dr. Balog practices adult psychiatry and specializes in the treatment of Depressive Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Bipolar Disorders, Psychotic Disorders, and Trauma-Related Disorders. Dr. Balog aims to provide high quality, collaborative, and patient-centered care for patients 18+ years of age.
(803) 339-1563 View (803) 339-1563
Photo of Erik Cantrell, Psychiatrist in Mount Pleasant, SC
Erik Cantrell
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
When times are tough, or when you're having issues, it's hard to find things to find pride in. The courage to seek help is something to take pride in, and I commend you for that. As a provider, my skill set lends itself towards being very good at diagnosing your issue, then explaining it well, and working with you in finding the right treatment. I generally find that a combination of medication and counseling works best. I focus on adult patients of any age, and I am board certified in psychiatry.
When times are tough, or when you're having issues, it's hard to find things to find pride in. The courage to seek help is something to take pride in, and I commend you for that. As a provider, my skill set lends itself towards being very good at diagnosing your issue, then explaining it well, and working with you in finding the right treatment. I generally find that a combination of medication and counseling works best. I focus on adult patients of any age, and I am board certified in psychiatry.
(843) 806-1071 View (843) 806-1071
Photo of Patrick Mcarthur, Psychiatrist in Mount Pleasant, SC
Patrick Mcarthur
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
Not accepting new clients
I have practiced Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatry in Mount Pleasant for over 19 years, and in Murrell's Inlet, SC for two years. I offer experienced, confidential and solution-focused treatment for all ages. In every session I do both talk therapy and (when indicated) medication management. The success of my practice is based on my taking the time to really know each patient and his/her needs and to develop mutual trust with each patient.
I have practiced Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatry in Mount Pleasant for over 19 years, and in Murrell's Inlet, SC for two years. I offer experienced, confidential and solution-focused treatment for all ages. In every session I do both talk therapy and (when indicated) medication management. The success of my practice is based on my taking the time to really know each patient and his/her needs and to develop mutual trust with each patient.
(843) 628-2140 View (843) 628-2140
Photo of Sweetgrass Psychiatry, Psychiatrist in Mount Pleasant, SC
Sweetgrass Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
YES, we are accepting new in person and virtual clients age 6+. YES, many of our providers take insurance (BCBS, Aetna, United/Optum, Cigna, Medicare, Tricare, Humana). We firmly believe you deserve integrative, holistic care and the best, most cutting edge treatments that work quickly with the least amount of risks. We are proud to offer the most groundbreaking new, FDA approved/cleared treatments for major depression, including transcranial magnetic stimulation and Spravato/esketamine which are covered by most commercial insurance plans. We also offer primary care services for our patients and have an in house family medicine MD.
YES, we are accepting new in person and virtual clients age 6+. YES, many of our providers take insurance (BCBS, Aetna, United/Optum, Cigna, Medicare, Tricare, Humana). We firmly believe you deserve integrative, holistic care and the best, most cutting edge treatments that work quickly with the least amount of risks. We are proud to offer the most groundbreaking new, FDA approved/cleared treatments for major depression, including transcranial magnetic stimulation and Spravato/esketamine which are covered by most commercial insurance plans. We also offer primary care services for our patients and have an in house family medicine MD.
(843) 279-5563 View (843) 279-5563
Photo of Victoria D. Simpson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Mount Pleasant, SC
Victoria D. Simpson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, PMHNP-
Verified Verified
Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
Victoria D. Simpson is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in South Carolina who has been practicing since 2023. She has a Master of Science Nursing (MSN), Summa Cum Laude, a Bachelor of Science Nursing (BSN), Summa Cum Laude, and an Associate in Applied Science, Nursing. With her thirty years of nursing experience, Victoria provides a non-judgmental environment to anyone struggling with any aspect of their mental health. Her role is multifaceted including educator, mental health advocate, and medication management.
Victoria D. Simpson is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in South Carolina who has been practicing since 2023. She has a Master of Science Nursing (MSN), Summa Cum Laude, a Bachelor of Science Nursing (BSN), Summa Cum Laude, and an Associate in Applied Science, Nursing. With her thirty years of nursing experience, Victoria provides a non-judgmental environment to anyone struggling with any aspect of their mental health. Her role is multifaceted including educator, mental health advocate, and medication management.
(843) 773-5030 View (843) 773-5030
Photo of Fermo Psychiatric Solutions, INC., Psychiatrist in Mount Pleasant, SC
Fermo Psychiatric Solutions, INC.
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
This includes depression, mood disorders, bipolar disorders, ADHD, psychotic, anxiety, substance use related, autism spectrum, and behavioral disorders.
I am a double board certified psychiatrist in Adult / Child and Adolescent who has been practicing for over 25 years. I practice on the principle of "Biopsychosocial Model", providing a psychiatric evaluation, building a strong therapeutic alliance, being patient oriented, providing psychoeducation on diagnosis(s), treatment options and interventions. I practice evidence based medicine, standard of care, and cutting edge psychotropic interventions when necessary. I provide psycho-educational support to my patients and their families.
This includes depression, mood disorders, bipolar disorders, ADHD, psychotic, anxiety, substance use related, autism spectrum, and behavioral disorders.
I am a double board certified psychiatrist in Adult / Child and Adolescent who has been practicing for over 25 years. I practice on the principle of "Biopsychosocial Model", providing a psychiatric evaluation, building a strong therapeutic alliance, being patient oriented, providing psychoeducation on diagnosis(s), treatment options and interventions. I practice evidence based medicine, standard of care, and cutting edge psychotropic interventions when necessary. I provide psycho-educational support to my patients and their families.
(843) 593-9626 View (843) 593-9626
Photo of Crystal W Higbe, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Mount Pleasant, SC
Crystal W Higbe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
I have experience taking care of women with depression, anxiety, bipolar and psychosis after delivery.
Are you having difficulties adjusting to motherhood? Feeling sad, anxious, depressed, angry or scared. Feel like there is no hope of feeling better. Physically and emotionally exhausted. You’re not alone, mama. We know that as many as 1 in 5 moms struggles with maternal mental illness such as postpartum depression, anxiety and birth-related PTSD. Among those affected, 75% go untreated. I am extremely passionate about working with women before, during and after pregnancy who struggle with these disorders.
I have experience taking care of women with depression, anxiety, bipolar and psychosis after delivery.
Are you having difficulties adjusting to motherhood? Feeling sad, anxious, depressed, angry or scared. Feel like there is no hope of feeling better. Physically and emotionally exhausted. You’re not alone, mama. We know that as many as 1 in 5 moms struggles with maternal mental illness such as postpartum depression, anxiety and birth-related PTSD. Among those affected, 75% go untreated. I am extremely passionate about working with women before, during and after pregnancy who struggle with these disorders.
(843) 891-6615 View (843) 891-6615
Photo of Dr. Layne A. Gritti, Psychiatrist in Mount Pleasant, SC
Dr. Layne A. Gritti
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mount Pleasant, SC 29464  (Online Only)
Dr. Gritti is a board-certified adult psychiatrist, dedicated to offering compassionate and comprehensive care to her patients. She prioritizes their holistic well-being, addressing their physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual needs. By understanding each individual's unique journey, Dr. Gritti aims to empower them to lead fulfilling and healthy lives. Beyond medication management, she emphasizes lifestyle changes and psychotherapeutic intervention to support overall well-being. With her patient-centered approach, Dr. Gritti strives to foster a therapeutic doctor-patient relationship that promotes lasting positive outcomes.
Dr. Gritti is a board-certified adult psychiatrist, dedicated to offering compassionate and comprehensive care to her patients. She prioritizes their holistic well-being, addressing their physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual needs. By understanding each individual's unique journey, Dr. Gritti aims to empower them to lead fulfilling and healthy lives. Beyond medication management, she emphasizes lifestyle changes and psychotherapeutic intervention to support overall well-being. With her patient-centered approach, Dr. Gritti strives to foster a therapeutic doctor-patient relationship that promotes lasting positive outcomes.
(843) 351-1197 View (843) 351-1197
Photo of Alexis Guevara, Psychiatrist in Mount Pleasant, SC
Alexis Guevara
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
Waitlist for new clients
We may be a good fit if you or your loved one are experiencing: Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, PTSD/Trauma, Autism, OCD, Bipolar Disorder, Behavioral problems (Oppositional defiant disorder), School issues, Relationship issues, Family issues, Grief, and more.
As a board-certified Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatrist, I pride myself in approaching each person with compassion and understanding to provide comprehensive, detailed, and individualized mental health treatment. To me, patients are not just clients, but are people with unique needs and goals who are shaped by their environments and experiences. Having worked in many clinical settings and with extensive ecperience, I strive to maintain the utmost professionalism, compassion, and confidentiality with each person I serve. I am excited to work with you on taking the next steps towards a happier, healthier life.
We may be a good fit if you or your loved one are experiencing: Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, PTSD/Trauma, Autism, OCD, Bipolar Disorder, Behavioral problems (Oppositional defiant disorder), School issues, Relationship issues, Family issues, Grief, and more.
As a board-certified Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatrist, I pride myself in approaching each person with compassion and understanding to provide comprehensive, detailed, and individualized mental health treatment. To me, patients are not just clients, but are people with unique needs and goals who are shaped by their environments and experiences. Having worked in many clinical settings and with extensive ecperience, I strive to maintain the utmost professionalism, compassion, and confidentiality with each person I serve. I am excited to work with you on taking the next steps towards a happier, healthier life.
(843) 896-6459 View (843) 896-6459
Photo of Dr. Abby Kent, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Mount Pleasant, SC
Dr. Abby Kent
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
Dr. Abby Kent, DNP, PMHNP-BC is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who treats children, adolescents, and adults. She has an integrative and family-centered approach to care and believes all aspects of a person’s life affect one’s well-being. She works closely with other physicians, therapists, teachers, and guidance counselors. Dr. Kent has worked in the mental health field for ten years with patients of all ages. She has experience working on inpatient units with all spans of life, most notably Active Duty Military members and their families, patients suffering with substance use, and pediatric patients.
Dr. Abby Kent, DNP, PMHNP-BC is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who treats children, adolescents, and adults. She has an integrative and family-centered approach to care and believes all aspects of a person’s life affect one’s well-being. She works closely with other physicians, therapists, teachers, and guidance counselors. Dr. Kent has worked in the mental health field for ten years with patients of all ages. She has experience working on inpatient units with all spans of life, most notably Active Duty Military members and their families, patients suffering with substance use, and pediatric patients.
(843) 755-6382 View (843) 755-6382
Photo of Gundu Reddy, Psychiatrist in Mount Pleasant, SC
Gundu Reddy
Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mount Pleasant, SC 29466  (Online Only)
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist in South Carolina. I have trained in Psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family and Marital therapy, as well as Psychiatric Medication Management. I have always believed that brain health is the key to every form of well being and every individual regardless of their diagnosis or symptoms has the potential to be healthier. Whether your reasons for seeking treatment include treatment-resistant hallucinations, persistent irritability, dysphoria, insomnia, wanting to perform better at work- the core principles of treatment are often similar.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist in South Carolina. I have trained in Psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family and Marital therapy, as well as Psychiatric Medication Management. I have always believed that brain health is the key to every form of well being and every individual regardless of their diagnosis or symptoms has the potential to be healthier. Whether your reasons for seeking treatment include treatment-resistant hallucinations, persistent irritability, dysphoria, insomnia, wanting to perform better at work- the core principles of treatment are often similar.
(843) 508-8883 View (843) 508-8883
Photo of Stephanie L. Price, DO, LLC, Psychiatrist in Mount Pleasant, SC
Stephanie L. Price, DO, LLC
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
I treat all ages and various conditions: depression, anxiety, ADHD, autism, bipolar disorder, psychosis and substance use, to name a few.
Thank you for visiting my profile. I admire the strength in you who have been, or currently are, active in this treatment process. A special welcome to everyone on the verge of this journey-to achieve health and wellness. I am a board-certified psychiatrist and work with all ages, though extended training to focus on children, adolescents and young adults. I do not accept insurance, but I am currently accepting new clients! I have telepsychiatry capability, too.
I treat all ages and various conditions: depression, anxiety, ADHD, autism, bipolar disorder, psychosis and substance use, to name a few.
Thank you for visiting my profile. I admire the strength in you who have been, or currently are, active in this treatment process. A special welcome to everyone on the verge of this journey-to achieve health and wellness. I am a board-certified psychiatrist and work with all ages, though extended training to focus on children, adolescents and young adults. I do not accept insurance, but I am currently accepting new clients! I have telepsychiatry capability, too.
(843) 306-4339 View (843) 306-4339
Photo of Michael Casey Kundert, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Mount Pleasant, SC
Michael Casey Kundert
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mount Pleasant, SC 29465
My name is Casey Kundert and I’m a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, at Centerway Behavioral Health. I’m originally from Illinois and have lived in Charleston for fifteen years and love it here. While completing the Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner master’s program at the University of South Carolina, I worked as a charge nurse on the general adult unit at MUSC’s Institute of Psychiatry. Through my education and experience, I’ve seen a very diverse range of mental illness, how it progresses, and the significant benefits of treatment over time.
My name is Casey Kundert and I’m a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, at Centerway Behavioral Health. I’m originally from Illinois and have lived in Charleston for fifteen years and love it here. While completing the Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner master’s program at the University of South Carolina, I worked as a charge nurse on the general adult unit at MUSC’s Institute of Psychiatry. Through my education and experience, I’ve seen a very diverse range of mental illness, how it progresses, and the significant benefits of treatment over time.
(843) 749-8212 View (843) 749-8212
Photo of Charleston Medicine and Behavioral Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Mount Pleasant, SC
Charleston Medicine and Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, AGNP-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
Dr. W. Rodney Andrews: I help clients who are experiencing difficulties from anxiety, depression, and a host of other issues. Additionally, I work with individuals suffering from a lack of motivation or having difficulty performing to their best at work, school, or on the playing field. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, or past traumas you're not alone. If you are ready to reclaim your joy, find your inner peace, or if you're seeking relief from emotional pain let's navigate your challenges together and ignite positive transformation in your life. Allow me to guide your journey towards healing and empowerment.
Dr. W. Rodney Andrews: I help clients who are experiencing difficulties from anxiety, depression, and a host of other issues. Additionally, I work with individuals suffering from a lack of motivation or having difficulty performing to their best at work, school, or on the playing field. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, or past traumas you're not alone. If you are ready to reclaim your joy, find your inner peace, or if you're seeking relief from emotional pain let's navigate your challenges together and ignite positive transformation in your life. Allow me to guide your journey towards healing and empowerment.
(843) 920-3891 View (843) 920-3891

See more therapy options for Mount Pleasant

Bipolar Disorder Psychiatrists

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.