When a sudden onset of manic episodes lands her in a psychiatric ward, what is a an established, respected psychotherapist to do? With an otherwise firm sense of self and an openness to new insights, Berger confronts the stumbling blocks of shame and stigma. A series of close friends and mentors stand by her through challenges with abusive colleagues, conflicted relationships with men, estrangement from her mother, and confusion about what truly matters.

The Bipolar Therapist is the only memoir that shows a complete recovery from bipolar disorder and describes how the author's times as a psychiatric inpatient influenced her work positively as a psychotherapist serving psychiatric and alcoholic inpatients. Berger's story hinges upon resilience, perseverance, drive, and courage.