Photo of Julien Fortier, Registered Social Worker in Mississauga, ON
Julien Fortier
Registered Social Worker, MSW, BMT, RSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L4V  (Online Only)
Specializing in complex mental health issues like substance use, bipolar disorder, and more, I offer a holistic approach with mindfulness, motivational interviewing and CBT.
I specialize in supporting clients with mental health challenges—depression, anxiety, PTSD, intellectual disabilities, substance use, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder. Ideal clients seek holistic care, combining mindfulness, CBT, music therapy, and empathy. They desire equitable, barrier-free support for stability and a healthier mindset. They value tailored strategies and a collaborative ally skilled in advocacy and communication. Ultimately, they seek understanding and holistic healing in a safe, empathetic space.
Specializing in complex mental health issues like substance use, bipolar disorder, and more, I offer a holistic approach with mindfulness, motivational interviewing and CBT.
I specialize in supporting clients with mental health challenges—depression, anxiety, PTSD, intellectual disabilities, substance use, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder. Ideal clients seek holistic care, combining mindfulness, CBT, music therapy, and empathy. They desire equitable, barrier-free support for stability and a healthier mindset. They value tailored strategies and a collaborative ally skilled in advocacy and communication. Ultimately, they seek understanding and holistic healing in a safe, empathetic space.
(647) 492-5144 View (647) 492-5144
Photo of Jon Lewis, Registered Psychotherapist in Mississauga, ON
Jon Lewis
Registered Psychotherapist, MDiv, RP
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L4Z
**NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS IN PERSON AND REMOTELY** I pride myself in offering clients an approach that is dedicated to understanding their goals through a collaborative counselling experience. I create a safe and calm space to facilitate a strong therapeutic connection with clients. With gentle curiosity and openness, I invite clients to tell me about their world and experience, so I can learn from them. I believe that healing is possible for everyone and it is my joy to help a client unlock their full potential for happiness and health. It’s not about merely helping clients to survive the day to day but helping clients to thrive!
**NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS IN PERSON AND REMOTELY** I pride myself in offering clients an approach that is dedicated to understanding their goals through a collaborative counselling experience. I create a safe and calm space to facilitate a strong therapeutic connection with clients. With gentle curiosity and openness, I invite clients to tell me about their world and experience, so I can learn from them. I believe that healing is possible for everyone and it is my joy to help a client unlock their full potential for happiness and health. It’s not about merely helping clients to survive the day to day but helping clients to thrive!
(289) 216-6573 View (289) 216-6573
Photo of Andrew Youssef (Phd Candidate), Pastoral Counsellor in Mississauga, ON
Andrew Youssef (Phd Candidate)
Pastoral Counsellor, MTS
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L4Z
**See our website for other therapists accepting new clients** I am mental health therapist as well as a multi-faith spiritual and religious care provider (also known as a chaplain). My strength is working with anyone's faith and spirituality to help them with their mental health and spiritual journey. I work with all faiths and religious. In my practice, I see each client as a complex and unique person with stories, worldviews, and challenges. My goal is to aid you in accessing your inner resources such as the experiences you cultivate from your stories and the beliefs that find root in your worldviews to cope with challenges.
**See our website for other therapists accepting new clients** I am mental health therapist as well as a multi-faith spiritual and religious care provider (also known as a chaplain). My strength is working with anyone's faith and spirituality to help them with their mental health and spiritual journey. I work with all faiths and religious. In my practice, I see each client as a complex and unique person with stories, worldviews, and challenges. My goal is to aid you in accessing your inner resources such as the experiences you cultivate from your stories and the beliefs that find root in your worldviews to cope with challenges.
(289) 207-6729 View (289) 207-6729
Photo of Kathleen McLean, Registered Social Worker in Mississauga, ON
Kathleen McLean
Registered Social Worker, BSW, RSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L4Z  (Online Only)
I believe that challenges can be beautiful, albeit deeply painful, opportunities to create a life you feel inspired to live There is hope in every situation, and often life’s greatest lessons are learned during its biggest obstacles. Life's not always easy. Hardships and transitions can blindside you and leave you feeling like you’re just trying to survive, and on autopilot. And then the questions come: Who am I? How did I get here? The life you have doesn’t reflect the one you imagined. While we can not change the past, we can choose to create meaning in our experiences, and determine how its legacy comes forward with us.
I believe that challenges can be beautiful, albeit deeply painful, opportunities to create a life you feel inspired to live There is hope in every situation, and often life’s greatest lessons are learned during its biggest obstacles. Life's not always easy. Hardships and transitions can blindside you and leave you feeling like you’re just trying to survive, and on autopilot. And then the questions come: Who am I? How did I get here? The life you have doesn’t reflect the one you imagined. While we can not change the past, we can choose to create meaning in our experiences, and determine how its legacy comes forward with us.
(289) 302-7151 View (289) 302-7151
Photo of Farah Memon, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Mississauga, ON
Farah Memon
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L4Z
I am fascinated by the beautiful interconnection between the mind and body. As a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) my vision is to promote mental wellness and reduce the stigma around it. I am passionate about improving the mental wellness of individuals along with facilitating personal growth and effective change. As my client, I will meet you where you are. I see you as a unique individual with your own strengths. Respecting your perspective, culture, and individuality is a key aspect of how we will build a therapeutic relationship. I am also constantly working towards providing a safe and inclusive space for you.
I am fascinated by the beautiful interconnection between the mind and body. As a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) my vision is to promote mental wellness and reduce the stigma around it. I am passionate about improving the mental wellness of individuals along with facilitating personal growth and effective change. As my client, I will meet you where you are. I see you as a unique individual with your own strengths. Respecting your perspective, culture, and individuality is a key aspect of how we will build a therapeutic relationship. I am also constantly working towards providing a safe and inclusive space for you.
(289) 277-7328 View (289) 277-7328
Photo of Rui Hao, Registered Social Worker in Mississauga, ON
Rui Hao
Registered Social Worker, MSW, BSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L5H
I am a registered social worker, psychotherapist with a Master's degree from University of Toronto. I've been working as a hospital social worker in mental health field since 2007 and won Professional Practice Award. In my private practice, I provide counseling and psychotherapy to adolescents and adults. I am also a tutor at University of Toronto Medical School. I am fluent in English and Mandarin and have extensive experience working with clients facing challenges during major life transitions. I use a variety of methods to help clients discover their strength and develop balanced core beliefs.
I am a registered social worker, psychotherapist with a Master's degree from University of Toronto. I've been working as a hospital social worker in mental health field since 2007 and won Professional Practice Award. In my private practice, I provide counseling and psychotherapy to adolescents and adults. I am also a tutor at University of Toronto Medical School. I am fluent in English and Mandarin and have extensive experience working with clients facing challenges during major life transitions. I use a variety of methods to help clients discover their strength and develop balanced core beliefs.
(289) 724-4313 View (289) 724-4313
Photo of Lorna Anderson, Registered Psychotherapist in Mississauga, ON
Lorna Anderson
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L4Z  (Online Only)
***NOW ACCEPTING CLIENTS FOR PHONE/VIDEO*** It’s a privilege and honour to be doing this work, and to walk alongside clients on their respective healing journeys. I believe that everyone is the expert of their own lives and life experiences. By working collaboratively and through meaning-making, I aim to support clients in connecting with their needs, dreams, hopes, as well as to the answers I believe each person has inside them. My approach is trauma-informed, non-directive, strength-based, and client-centered. Healing, the discovery of possibilities, one’s resilience, and one's gifts can all be part of the therapy process.
***NOW ACCEPTING CLIENTS FOR PHONE/VIDEO*** It’s a privilege and honour to be doing this work, and to walk alongside clients on their respective healing journeys. I believe that everyone is the expert of their own lives and life experiences. By working collaboratively and through meaning-making, I aim to support clients in connecting with their needs, dreams, hopes, as well as to the answers I believe each person has inside them. My approach is trauma-informed, non-directive, strength-based, and client-centered. Healing, the discovery of possibilities, one’s resilience, and one's gifts can all be part of the therapy process.
(289) 272-7293 View (289) 272-7293
Photo of Marian Shinuda, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Mississauga, ON
Marian Shinuda
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MDiv, RP(Q)
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L4Z
I believe that people are much more understandable when you know their life journey. I believe in the power of human connection and the healing that this connection alone can bring about in therapy. My clients know that I am there rooting for them as they navigate difficult chapters: past, present, and future. This is why I am always honoured and excited to hear someone’s story. Looking at the different layers of your story will help us track where certain patterns and cycles have started. Together, we will work through the parts that need healing. We will move forward with this information to make positive changes in your life.
I believe that people are much more understandable when you know their life journey. I believe in the power of human connection and the healing that this connection alone can bring about in therapy. My clients know that I am there rooting for them as they navigate difficult chapters: past, present, and future. This is why I am always honoured and excited to hear someone’s story. Looking at the different layers of your story will help us track where certain patterns and cycles have started. Together, we will work through the parts that need healing. We will move forward with this information to make positive changes in your life.
(289) 536-4543 View (289) 536-4543
Photo of Magie Abdelmalek, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Mississauga, ON
Magie Abdelmalek
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP, RP(Q)
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L4Z
Have you been feeling sad, anxious, alone, or discouraged? Are you searching for ways to improve the quality of your life and your relationships? Often, we may feel stuck in a place from which we cannot escape. I know how hard and painful this can be, but you don't have to go through this alone. Reaching out for professional support to navigate your emotional, behavioural, and relationship challenges can be life changing. Together, we will walk this journey in a calm, non-judgmental, and supportive space!
Have you been feeling sad, anxious, alone, or discouraged? Are you searching for ways to improve the quality of your life and your relationships? Often, we may feel stuck in a place from which we cannot escape. I know how hard and painful this can be, but you don't have to go through this alone. Reaching out for professional support to navigate your emotional, behavioural, and relationship challenges can be life changing. Together, we will walk this journey in a calm, non-judgmental, and supportive space!
(289) 272-8798 View (289) 272-8798
Photo of Elena Anguelova, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Mississauga, ON
Elena Anguelova
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA
Verified Verified
Mississauga, ON L5M  (Online Only)
There can be extremely challenging and stressful times in life that can lead to difficult emotions. These can be hard to express to other people or even ourselves, which can sometimes even prolong the pain that we sit in. During our sessions, I will help provide a warm, non-judgmental and compassionate space. I want you to feel supported in your journey, as well as safe in being able to express any thoughts or feelings that you hold.
There can be extremely challenging and stressful times in life that can lead to difficult emotions. These can be hard to express to other people or even ourselves, which can sometimes even prolong the pain that we sit in. During our sessions, I will help provide a warm, non-judgmental and compassionate space. I want you to feel supported in your journey, as well as safe in being able to express any thoughts or feelings that you hold.
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Photo of Justin the Therapist, Registered Psychotherapist in Mississauga, ON
Justin the Therapist
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, MSc, RP, RMFT
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L4Z
***STILL OPEN FOR IN-PERSON GUELPH/MISSISSAUGA*** I believe that there is good in every person, and hope in every situation. I have helped hundreds of individuals, couples, and families heal, grow, and connect. As a relational therapist, I appreciate the impact that our relationships have on our well-being. I do not see clients as having something wrong with their minds that necessarily needs to be fixed. Rather, I see my clients as unique individuals, each with their own stories and perspectives, embedded in important relationships and contexts that impact them. I see strengths and I see hope, even when it feels like there is none.
***STILL OPEN FOR IN-PERSON GUELPH/MISSISSAUGA*** I believe that there is good in every person, and hope in every situation. I have helped hundreds of individuals, couples, and families heal, grow, and connect. As a relational therapist, I appreciate the impact that our relationships have on our well-being. I do not see clients as having something wrong with their minds that necessarily needs to be fixed. Rather, I see my clients as unique individuals, each with their own stories and perspectives, embedded in important relationships and contexts that impact them. I see strengths and I see hope, even when it feels like there is none.
(289) 274-8209 View (289) 274-8209
Photo of Kornelia Anna Hawrylewicz, Registered Psychotherapist in Mississauga, ON
Kornelia Anna Hawrylewicz
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, CCC, RP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L5R
Welcome! Let me start out by telling you what I tell all my potential clients: Therapy is such an individual process and so much of it has to do with finding the right therapist. Many of us have similar training and areas of expertise but we all differ in personality. I want to use this space here to give you an idea of my vibe and approach. I’m a little quirky with a gentle approach and strong ability to challenge you and explore with you. I can sit with you in heavy spaces, difficult feelings, and complex thoughts.
Welcome! Let me start out by telling you what I tell all my potential clients: Therapy is such an individual process and so much of it has to do with finding the right therapist. Many of us have similar training and areas of expertise but we all differ in personality. I want to use this space here to give you an idea of my vibe and approach. I’m a little quirky with a gentle approach and strong ability to challenge you and explore with you. I can sit with you in heavy spaces, difficult feelings, and complex thoughts.
(289) 207-7654 View (289) 207-7654
Photo of Marta Mackiw, Registered Psychotherapist in Mississauga, ON
Marta Mackiw
Registered Psychotherapist, BSc, MACP, RP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L5M
I have been fortunate enough to find my passion in working with and helping others. Connecting with a therapist is a challenging first step, but it is often the first step towards discovery, growth, and change. I aspire to create a safe and comfortable space for clients to uncover their resiliency and explore skills that help them increase their ability to cope with life difficulties. I offer individual, couple, and family therapy for a wide variety of concerns including anxiety, depression, trauma, anger management, self-esteem, domestic violence, communication problems, stress management, and life transitions.
I have been fortunate enough to find my passion in working with and helping others. Connecting with a therapist is a challenging first step, but it is often the first step towards discovery, growth, and change. I aspire to create a safe and comfortable space for clients to uncover their resiliency and explore skills that help them increase their ability to cope with life difficulties. I offer individual, couple, and family therapy for a wide variety of concerns including anxiety, depression, trauma, anger management, self-esteem, domestic violence, communication problems, stress management, and life transitions.
(647) 953-2034 View (647) 953-2034
Photo of Katie McKie, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Mississauga, ON
Katie McKie
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA, RP(Q)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L5M
Life can be challenging, stressful and confusing at times, but we don’t have to go through it alone. Choosing therapy may not always feel easy, but I commend you for taking a pivotal step toward a more empowered life. As a counsellor, I am dedicated to providing you a safe, non-judgmental space where you can navigate this journey of self-discovery, healing and growth.
Life can be challenging, stressful and confusing at times, but we don’t have to go through it alone. Choosing therapy may not always feel easy, but I commend you for taking a pivotal step toward a more empowered life. As a counsellor, I am dedicated to providing you a safe, non-judgmental space where you can navigate this journey of self-discovery, healing and growth.
(365) 659-4917 View (365) 659-4917
Photo of Ariane Rodrigues, Registered Psychotherapist in Mississauga, ON
Ariane Rodrigues
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, GCert, BA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L5M
I currently offer individual counselling - in person or virtually. Appointments are available Monday - Thursday, Saturday & Sunday. Life's challenges can lead to difficulties coping with our thoughts, emotions, relationships, tough situations and more. No matter the issue, I strive to provide a safe, judgement free space to help you gain support and insight in your life. I take a client-centered approach that prioritizes your personal needs, goals and strengths.
I currently offer individual counselling - in person or virtually. Appointments are available Monday - Thursday, Saturday & Sunday. Life's challenges can lead to difficulties coping with our thoughts, emotions, relationships, tough situations and more. No matter the issue, I strive to provide a safe, judgement free space to help you gain support and insight in your life. I take a client-centered approach that prioritizes your personal needs, goals and strengths.
(365) 305-0190 View (365) 305-0190
Photo of Dia Meratian, Registered Psychotherapist in Mississauga, ON
Dia Meratian
Registered Psychotherapist, MSc, RP
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L4Z  (Online Only)
When I think about therapy, I imagine my client’s search for well-being and healing as if they were lost and trying to find their way home. You might know where home is, but find yourself stuck in darkness, not being able to find your way. As your therapist, I see myself holding the flashlight. You are the one who knows your way to healing, and I have the tools to help get you there easier. This is what I believe therapy looks like; us walking together on your journey. As we travel together to help you find “home”—your place of healing, peace, and comfort—while I share my knowledge and tools to help you find that “home”.
When I think about therapy, I imagine my client’s search for well-being and healing as if they were lost and trying to find their way home. You might know where home is, but find yourself stuck in darkness, not being able to find your way. As your therapist, I see myself holding the flashlight. You are the one who knows your way to healing, and I have the tools to help get you there easier. This is what I believe therapy looks like; us walking together on your journey. As we travel together to help you find “home”—your place of healing, peace, and comfort—while I share my knowledge and tools to help you find that “home”.
(289) 276-5941 View (289) 276-5941
Photo of Building Bridges Psychotherapy, Registered Psychotherapist in Mississauga, ON
Building Bridges Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, MSc, RP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L4Z
***ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS: IN-PERSON & PHONE/VIDEO*** We believe that there is good in every person, and hope in every situation. We have helped individuals, couples, and families heal, grow, and connect. As relational therapists, we appreciate the impact that our relationships have on our well-being. We do not see clients as having something wrong with their minds that necessarily needs to be fixed. Rather, we see our clients as unique individuals, each with their own stories and perspectives, embedded in important relationships and contexts that impact them. We see strengths and we see hope, even when it feels like there is none.
***ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS: IN-PERSON & PHONE/VIDEO*** We believe that there is good in every person, and hope in every situation. We have helped individuals, couples, and families heal, grow, and connect. As relational therapists, we appreciate the impact that our relationships have on our well-being. We do not see clients as having something wrong with their minds that necessarily needs to be fixed. Rather, we see our clients as unique individuals, each with their own stories and perspectives, embedded in important relationships and contexts that impact them. We see strengths and we see hope, even when it feels like there is none.
(289) 210-5106 View (289) 210-5106
Photo of Natasha Huff - Social Worker - Clinical Supervisor, Registered Social Worker in Mississauga, ON
Natasha Huff - Social Worker - Clinical Supervisor
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L5M
I offer individual, couple and family therapy for a wide range of issues including; Divorce/Separation, Trauma, Grief, OCD, ADHD, BPD, Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, Substance Abuse, Self-Image, Family Conflict, and Eating Disorders I have assisted many couples and families in improving their relationships with one another, providing them with the ability to communicate, respect and understand each other better using Collaborative Problem Solving and Emotion-focussed therapy. Success in a relationship does not mean there is no conflict, it means that conflict is handled in a respectful manner and individuals feel heard.
I offer individual, couple and family therapy for a wide range of issues including; Divorce/Separation, Trauma, Grief, OCD, ADHD, BPD, Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, Substance Abuse, Self-Image, Family Conflict, and Eating Disorders I have assisted many couples and families in improving their relationships with one another, providing them with the ability to communicate, respect and understand each other better using Collaborative Problem Solving and Emotion-focussed therapy. Success in a relationship does not mean there is no conflict, it means that conflict is handled in a respectful manner and individuals feel heard.
(416) 985-0925 View (416) 985-0925
Photo of Nidhi Sharma, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Mississauga, ON
Nidhi Sharma
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MEd, MACP, RP(Q)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L4Z
Among all the things we want for ourselves, perhaps happiness tops the list for most. But life may not always turn out the way we expect, and that can hurt. There may be times when we feel stuck, angry, lost, confused, unhappy, or overwhelmed. What do we do then? In such times, I like to remind myself that “Pain is inevitable. Suffering is optional” (Haruki Murakami). This perspective offers us strength to move towards inner healing and positive change. Seeking therapy is brave work, and a beautiful way to practice self-love; when you truly love yourself, you value who you are and can grow towards the best version of yourself.
Among all the things we want for ourselves, perhaps happiness tops the list for most. But life may not always turn out the way we expect, and that can hurt. There may be times when we feel stuck, angry, lost, confused, unhappy, or overwhelmed. What do we do then? In such times, I like to remind myself that “Pain is inevitable. Suffering is optional” (Haruki Murakami). This perspective offers us strength to move towards inner healing and positive change. Seeking therapy is brave work, and a beautiful way to practice self-love; when you truly love yourself, you value who you are and can grow towards the best version of yourself.
(289) 312-5987 View (289) 312-5987
Photo of Jasmine Spurrell, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Mississauga, ON
Jasmine Spurrell
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP, RP(Q)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L4Z
Finding the right therapist can be a daunting and intimidating process. This is why I appreciate the strength and courage that it takes to reach out for help. I also admire the ambition and belief that positive change is possible. Therefore, I would be so honoured to support you in identifying your needs, goals, and taking these next steps with you. My goal is to build and maintain a strong and trusting therapeutic relationship with you, so you can feel empowered and confident, in yourself and in your decision making. I provide a comfortable and judgement-free space for you to be able to express yourself and grow.
Finding the right therapist can be a daunting and intimidating process. This is why I appreciate the strength and courage that it takes to reach out for help. I also admire the ambition and belief that positive change is possible. Therefore, I would be so honoured to support you in identifying your needs, goals, and taking these next steps with you. My goal is to build and maintain a strong and trusting therapeutic relationship with you, so you can feel empowered and confident, in yourself and in your decision making. I provide a comfortable and judgement-free space for you to be able to express yourself and grow.
(289) 806-7370 View (289) 806-7370

See more therapy options for Mississauga

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.