There are no results for counsellors in Norval

Check out counsellors located nearby or offering teletherapy in Ontario below.

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Mechelle Thomas, Registered Social Worker in Norval, ON
Mechelle Thomas
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, RN, BSCN
Verified Verified
Georgetown, ON L7G  (Online Only)
As a holistic Social Worker, I place a strong emphasis on the physical, emotional, mental and spiritual dimensions of wellness. I work within an inclusive, trauma-informed, anti-racist, anti-oppressive framework that incorporates principles of intersectionality. Moreover, I practice from a culturally relevant, client-centred, strength-based perspective, centred on a non-judgemental, collaborative approach. With compassion, honesty, warmth, and presence, I hold space for clients to use their innate curiosity and introspection to address the root causes of their challenges, strengthen relationships, and build meaningful connections.
As a holistic Social Worker, I place a strong emphasis on the physical, emotional, mental and spiritual dimensions of wellness. I work within an inclusive, trauma-informed, anti-racist, anti-oppressive framework that incorporates principles of intersectionality. Moreover, I practice from a culturally relevant, client-centred, strength-based perspective, centred on a non-judgemental, collaborative approach. With compassion, honesty, warmth, and presence, I hold space for clients to use their innate curiosity and introspection to address the root causes of their challenges, strengthen relationships, and build meaningful connections.
(437) 747-8816 View (437) 747-8816
Photo of Dr. Kerris Oates, Psychologist in Norval, ON
Dr. Kerris Oates
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Milton, ON L9T  (Online Only)
I have a passion for helping people attain optimal mental health, thru improved coping with life stressors/experiences and also personal healing/growth. Basically, I want to help you (or your child) thrive! I have extensive training and experience with a broad range of issues and treatment modalities. I am certified with the College of Psychologists of Ontario in the areas of Clinical & Counselling Psychology (both assessment & treatment) for Adults, Couples, Adolescents and Children. My approach is tailored for each unique client and also allows for the integration of spiritual issues into therapy when appropriate and desired.
I have a passion for helping people attain optimal mental health, thru improved coping with life stressors/experiences and also personal healing/growth. Basically, I want to help you (or your child) thrive! I have extensive training and experience with a broad range of issues and treatment modalities. I am certified with the College of Psychologists of Ontario in the areas of Clinical & Counselling Psychology (both assessment & treatment) for Adults, Couples, Adolescents and Children. My approach is tailored for each unique client and also allows for the integration of spiritual issues into therapy when appropriate and desired.
(289) 302-8253 View (289) 302-8253
Photo of Katherine C Counselling, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Norval, ON
Katherine C Counselling
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA
Verified Verified
Georgetown, ON L7G
Sometimes life can be overwhelming and stressful, thus making it difficult to cope. Therefore, my hope is to help you work through some of your issues (i.e., anxiety, grief, loss) that you are struggling with by providing the skills, insight, and knowledge you need to lead a life you want. I know talking to someone about painful emotions and memories can be difficult so thank you for taking the first step to seeking help.
Sometimes life can be overwhelming and stressful, thus making it difficult to cope. Therefore, my hope is to help you work through some of your issues (i.e., anxiety, grief, loss) that you are struggling with by providing the skills, insight, and knowledge you need to lead a life you want. I know talking to someone about painful emotions and memories can be difficult so thank you for taking the first step to seeking help.
(289) 207-5526 View (289) 207-5526
Photo of Annmarie Armstrong-Garvey, Registered Psychotherapist in Norval, ON
Annmarie Armstrong-Garvey
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP
Verified Verified
Mississauga, ON L5N
The journey of a thousand steps begins with just one step! Today you have taken that first step. Steps that will lead to your empowerment. A step on the right path towards growth and well-being. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we will work together to better understand and resolve changes in your life. By applying complementary therapy approaches and techniques, we will unearth long-standing behaviour patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
The journey of a thousand steps begins with just one step! Today you have taken that first step. Steps that will lead to your empowerment. A step on the right path towards growth and well-being. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we will work together to better understand and resolve changes in your life. By applying complementary therapy approaches and techniques, we will unearth long-standing behaviour patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
(844) 580-0362 View (844) 580-0362
Photo of Trish Soltysiak, Registered Social Worker in Norval, ON
Trish Soltysiak
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Milton, ON L9T
I am a Registered Social Worker with over 10 years of clinical experience supporting teens, young adults, and families. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression and various mood and personality disorders within the 14-24 year old population. I am passionate about helping my clients stabilize their mental health using mindfulness based stress reduction, expressive arts and creativity, physical activity, emotion focused therapy. I am also trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
I am a Registered Social Worker with over 10 years of clinical experience supporting teens, young adults, and families. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression and various mood and personality disorders within the 14-24 year old population. I am passionate about helping my clients stabilize their mental health using mindfulness based stress reduction, expressive arts and creativity, physical activity, emotion focused therapy. I am also trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
(289) 806-1168 View (289) 806-1168
Photo of Anxiety And Trauma Therapist Christine El-Dairy, Registered Psychotherapist in Norval, ON
Anxiety And Trauma Therapist Christine El-Dairy
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, RP
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Milton, ON L9T  (Online Only)
Do you worry about the future? Are you experiencing relational difficulties & frustrations, and do you feel triggered by important others in your life? Do you cope by shutting down or avoidance, and end up feeling drained? Do you sometimes 'people please' or to achieve to feel a sense of self-worth and safety, and to avoid your feelings? Do you procrastinate and have difficulties focusing? Have you experienced losses or failures that have impacted your confidence and sense of self. If you are interested in self-exploration, coping better, managing anxiety, perfectionism, trauma, ADHD or depression, we can help.
Do you worry about the future? Are you experiencing relational difficulties & frustrations, and do you feel triggered by important others in your life? Do you cope by shutting down or avoidance, and end up feeling drained? Do you sometimes 'people please' or to achieve to feel a sense of self-worth and safety, and to avoid your feelings? Do you procrastinate and have difficulties focusing? Have you experienced losses or failures that have impacted your confidence and sense of self. If you are interested in self-exploration, coping better, managing anxiety, perfectionism, trauma, ADHD or depression, we can help.
(647) 797-0703 View (647) 797-0703
Photo of Basil Joseph, Registered Psychotherapist in Norval, ON
Basil Joseph
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, RP, RMFT
Verified Verified
Milton, ON L9T
If you or someone in your life is facing emotional or relationship difficulties, I will be able to help. For the past 25 years I have worked in a variety of community and mental health settings, helping clients with a wide range of issues including stress, depression, anxiety, trauma, addictions, relationship-family conflicts, infidelity, anger management, and in coping with difficult life transitions.
If you or someone in your life is facing emotional or relationship difficulties, I will be able to help. For the past 25 years I have worked in a variety of community and mental health settings, helping clients with a wide range of issues including stress, depression, anxiety, trauma, addictions, relationship-family conflicts, infidelity, anger management, and in coping with difficult life transitions.
(647) 697-4434 View (647) 697-4434

Online Therapists

Photo of Gray Matter Health -Brampton Psychotherapists, Registered Social Worker in Norval, ON
Gray Matter Health -Brampton Psychotherapists
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brampton, ON L6Z
Sometimes we just can't do it on our own. Whether you have individual, couple, or family challenges, as a professional or first responder, life is so much more fulfilling when we can reach out for support to get through the rough patch. Our team has several years of experience working through trauma, anxiety, depression, stress, grief, conflict, OCD, BPD, bipolar disorder, anger, ADHD, dementia, burnout, or perinatal challenges in addition to so much more. If you're ready for a life change, we can help! Many of our clients have reached out to us for support and as a result have restored happiness & improved their quality of life.
Sometimes we just can't do it on our own. Whether you have individual, couple, or family challenges, as a professional or first responder, life is so much more fulfilling when we can reach out for support to get through the rough patch. Our team has several years of experience working through trauma, anxiety, depression, stress, grief, conflict, OCD, BPD, bipolar disorder, anger, ADHD, dementia, burnout, or perinatal challenges in addition to so much more. If you're ready for a life change, we can help! Many of our clients have reached out to us for support and as a result have restored happiness & improved their quality of life.
(289) 302-8255 View (289) 302-8255
Photo of Marci Gray -Social Worker Emdr Psychotherapist, Registered Social Worker in Norval, ON
Marci Gray -Social Worker Emdr Psychotherapist
Registered Social Worker, BA, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Brampton, ON L6V
What are you going through? Let’s work together to sort it out, make steps towards recovery, & come to resolution and healing. In a safe and non-judgemental space we focus on your challenges, symptoms and needs. Whether you are seeking individual, couple, or family therapy we can engage in the most appropriate therapeutic solutions for you. I have 20 years experience in the field and have specialized training in treatment for anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, OCD, PTSD, & trauma in addition to couples therapy. I’m trained in EMDR, CBT, DBT, EFT etc. I am also the therapist for therapists.
What are you going through? Let’s work together to sort it out, make steps towards recovery, & come to resolution and healing. In a safe and non-judgemental space we focus on your challenges, symptoms and needs. Whether you are seeking individual, couple, or family therapy we can engage in the most appropriate therapeutic solutions for you. I have 20 years experience in the field and have specialized training in treatment for anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, OCD, PTSD, & trauma in addition to couples therapy. I’m trained in EMDR, CBT, DBT, EFT etc. I am also the therapist for therapists.
(647) 360-2175 View (647) 360-2175
Photo of Stefan Morgan Dunn in Norval, ON
Stefan Morgan Dunn
MSc
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M5C
My clinical expertise extends to a variety of areas including trauma, sexual abuse recovery, bipolar disorder, ADHD, anxiety, depression, substance abuse, sleep, nutrition, and interpersonal relationship issues.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by life's challenges? Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, or relationship issues? Therapy can provide the support, guidance, and tools you need to navigate these difficulties and thrive. I'm Stefan, a Clinical Supervisor with over 9 years of hands-on experience in the field of mental health. My practice encompasses a wide range of age groups from preteens to seniors, and I offer therapeutic services to individuals, couples, and families alike. My clinical approach is diverse and tailored to the unique needs of each client.
My clinical expertise extends to a variety of areas including trauma, sexual abuse recovery, bipolar disorder, ADHD, anxiety, depression, substance abuse, sleep, nutrition, and interpersonal relationship issues.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by life's challenges? Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, or relationship issues? Therapy can provide the support, guidance, and tools you need to navigate these difficulties and thrive. I'm Stefan, a Clinical Supervisor with over 9 years of hands-on experience in the field of mental health. My practice encompasses a wide range of age groups from preteens to seniors, and I offer therapeutic services to individuals, couples, and families alike. My clinical approach is diverse and tailored to the unique needs of each client.
(782) 201-1257 View (782) 201-1257
Photo of Gentlewaves Counseling and Psychotherapy in Norval, ON
Gentlewaves Counseling and Psychotherapy
RN, CPMHN, CNP(Q)
Verified Verified
Vaughan, ON L4L
As your certified psychiatric and mental health and nurse psychotherapist my passion is to be your supportive guide on your journey to mental well-being. Whether you are a young adult, a new or expectant mom. We can walk through your uncertainties together. Do you need a coach? Someone to talk with? Suffering with a difficult period in your life? Would you like to find that calm that you desire in your life? We can work together to manage levels of stress, anxiety or depression, Bipolar, BPD among many other illnesses.
As your certified psychiatric and mental health and nurse psychotherapist my passion is to be your supportive guide on your journey to mental well-being. Whether you are a young adult, a new or expectant mom. We can walk through your uncertainties together. Do you need a coach? Someone to talk with? Suffering with a difficult period in your life? Would you like to find that calm that you desire in your life? We can work together to manage levels of stress, anxiety or depression, Bipolar, BPD among many other illnesses.
(365) 601-6920 View (365) 601-6920
Photo of Noemia Cerqueira New Clients Always Welcomed!, Registered Psychotherapist in Norval, ON
Noemia Cerqueira New Clients Always Welcomed!
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M9R  (Online Only)
I have experience working with people with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and OCD and other serious mental health illnesses.
If you are looking for help with anxiety, depression, bipolar, OCD, and feeling overwhelmed I may be able to help you. I have been assisting individuals overcome mental health challenges for over 24 years and have experience working with adults My focus is on supporting you in finding the strength you have and to help you understand, and to gain a deeper understanding of what is going on. We will work together to identify your strengths and values that can shift you towards living a life with ease and a life that is more fulfilling. In me you will find a therapist who is compassionate, and empathetic to what you share with me.
I have experience working with people with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and OCD and other serious mental health illnesses.
If you are looking for help with anxiety, depression, bipolar, OCD, and feeling overwhelmed I may be able to help you. I have been assisting individuals overcome mental health challenges for over 24 years and have experience working with adults My focus is on supporting you in finding the strength you have and to help you understand, and to gain a deeper understanding of what is going on. We will work together to identify your strengths and values that can shift you towards living a life with ease and a life that is more fulfilling. In me you will find a therapist who is compassionate, and empathetic to what you share with me.
(365) 364-2724 View (365) 364-2724
Photo of Henry Wong, Registered Social Worker in Norval, ON
Henry Wong
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Richmond Hill, ON L4S
Accepting NEW patients! I speak Cantonese, Mandarin and English. I provide counselling to children, youth and adults via secure video and phone calls. I view mental health as a cardiologist views heart health – a vital part of living! I am passionate about healing and helping you live your best life. I enjoy working with individuals with concerns related to any life challenges experienced that prevent you from living your best life, including: trauma, attachment, addiction, grief, relationship concerns, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, BPD and psychosis. I also work with a team of therapists, dietitians and naturopaths.
Accepting NEW patients! I speak Cantonese, Mandarin and English. I provide counselling to children, youth and adults via secure video and phone calls. I view mental health as a cardiologist views heart health – a vital part of living! I am passionate about healing and helping you live your best life. I enjoy working with individuals with concerns related to any life challenges experienced that prevent you from living your best life, including: trauma, attachment, addiction, grief, relationship concerns, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, BPD and psychosis. I also work with a team of therapists, dietitians and naturopaths.
(289) 536-4946 View (289) 536-4946
Photo of Koye Oyerinde, Registered Social Worker in Norval, ON
Koye Oyerinde
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
London, ON N6H  (Online Only)
I facilitated Cognitive Behavioural Therapy treatments for Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Social and Generalized Anxiety, Panic Disorder, and Obsessive Compulsive Disorders and also facilitated Dialectical Behavioural Therapy programs for Borderline Personality Disorders.
I enjoy working with individuals, families, and couples. This might be the first time you are seeking counselling or you may be seeking for a different counselling experience, picking the right counsellor for you is important. It is important to understand how we interpret our experiences and how they affects us. Our environments also have the ability to impact the way we interpret our experiences and interactions; it can be helpful to develop an awareness of the common miscommunication we experience based on our past experiences and in challenging ourselves to take steps towards wellness.
I facilitated Cognitive Behavioural Therapy treatments for Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Social and Generalized Anxiety, Panic Disorder, and Obsessive Compulsive Disorders and also facilitated Dialectical Behavioural Therapy programs for Borderline Personality Disorders.
I enjoy working with individuals, families, and couples. This might be the first time you are seeking counselling or you may be seeking for a different counselling experience, picking the right counsellor for you is important. It is important to understand how we interpret our experiences and how they affects us. Our environments also have the ability to impact the way we interpret our experiences and interactions; it can be helpful to develop an awareness of the common miscommunication we experience based on our past experiences and in challenging ourselves to take steps towards wellness.
(226) 400-6910 View (226) 400-6910
Photo of Alessandra Marques, Registered Social Worker in Norval, ON
Alessandra Marques
Registered Social Worker, BSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M4C  (Online Only)
I offer psychotherapy for a range of issues including Adjustment Disorder, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder and other mental health symptoms.
Hello! I’m so glad you are here. Starting therapy is a big deal, and finding the right therapist is key. My name is Alessandra and I’m passionate about helping people who are navigating difficult life transitions. If you are felling stuck and overwhelmed about life, I would like to help. Thank you for reaching out and taking the first courageous step in your journey toward greater health.
I offer psychotherapy for a range of issues including Adjustment Disorder, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder and other mental health symptoms.
Hello! I’m so glad you are here. Starting therapy is a big deal, and finding the right therapist is key. My name is Alessandra and I’m passionate about helping people who are navigating difficult life transitions. If you are felling stuck and overwhelmed about life, I would like to help. Thank you for reaching out and taking the first courageous step in your journey toward greater health.
(647) 722-5904 View (647) 722-5904
Photo of Darlene Artt, Registered Psychotherapist in Norval, ON
Darlene Artt
Registered Psychotherapist, MDiv, RP, MFT, CAMFT, OAMHP
Verified Verified
Brampton, ON L6V
I am specifically trained to support Military and First Responders, trauma and post traumatic stress, and individuals and families suffering with serious mental health concerns such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and neurological issues.
I offer compassion and empathy to children, youth, individuals, couples, and families, in a non-judgmental and culturally sensitive manner, using a strengths-based, person-centred approach.
I am specifically trained to support Military and First Responders, trauma and post traumatic stress, and individuals and families suffering with serious mental health concerns such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and neurological issues.
I offer compassion and empathy to children, youth, individuals, couples, and families, in a non-judgmental and culturally sensitive manner, using a strengths-based, person-centred approach.
(833) 313-0728 View (833) 313-0728
Photo of Derek Johnson, Registered Psychotherapist in Norval, ON
Derek Johnson
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, MS, RP
Verified Verified
Saint Catharines, ON L2N
Having the same old argument with your partner that never gets resolved? Men are you wrestling with down and persistent sad thoughts which keeps you up at night, and can't focus at work during the day? I am a registered psychotherapist, who has been working with individuals, groups, and couples for over 20 years. I help couples understand their problems, improve their communication, in order to reconnect to the love that first brought them together. For men, I can help to regain your confidence at home and work. For work groups, I can administer and walk you through assessments that will help you develop and work better as a team.
Having the same old argument with your partner that never gets resolved? Men are you wrestling with down and persistent sad thoughts which keeps you up at night, and can't focus at work during the day? I am a registered psychotherapist, who has been working with individuals, groups, and couples for over 20 years. I help couples understand their problems, improve their communication, in order to reconnect to the love that first brought them together. For men, I can help to regain your confidence at home and work. For work groups, I can administer and walk you through assessments that will help you develop and work better as a team.
(365) 800-6609 View (365) 800-6609
Photo of Marian Shinuda, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Norval, 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 Wayne Gray, Registered Social Worker in Norval, ON
Wayne Gray
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5R  (Online Only)
Wayne supports youth and adults seeking help rediscovering their self-worth, fortifying challenging relationships, removing hurdles that intensify substance dependence, or living with a mental health diagnosis. With over a decade of experience in community mental health and substance use, Wayne is able to address addiction, chronic stress, insecurity, depression and anxiety, and other mental health challenges. Couples therapy work has also been a particular passion for Wayne. He can support you in exploring and refining communication, context, compromise, and chemistry.
Wayne supports youth and adults seeking help rediscovering their self-worth, fortifying challenging relationships, removing hurdles that intensify substance dependence, or living with a mental health diagnosis. With over a decade of experience in community mental health and substance use, Wayne is able to address addiction, chronic stress, insecurity, depression and anxiety, and other mental health challenges. Couples therapy work has also been a particular passion for Wayne. He can support you in exploring and refining communication, context, compromise, and chemistry.
(437) 500-6299 View (437) 500-6299
Photo of Esra Magsoud, Registered Social Worker in Norval, ON
Esra Magsoud
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
London, ON N6A
Have you been feeling overwhelmed & stressed? Experiencing difficulty in your relationships, school or work? Are you struggling with your emotions? Are you a parent with a child experiencing behavioural issues? Are you or your child struggling with thoughts of depression, self-harm & suicide? Are you experiencing anxiety & work/school related issues? Do you have low self esteem? You have come to the right place! I would be honoured to support you. Whether it be helping to process events, providing support or learning different coping skills through evidence-based interventions, myself & the team at CBT Wellness can help you!
Have you been feeling overwhelmed & stressed? Experiencing difficulty in your relationships, school or work? Are you struggling with your emotions? Are you a parent with a child experiencing behavioural issues? Are you or your child struggling with thoughts of depression, self-harm & suicide? Are you experiencing anxiety & work/school related issues? Do you have low self esteem? You have come to the right place! I would be honoured to support you. Whether it be helping to process events, providing support or learning different coping skills through evidence-based interventions, myself & the team at CBT Wellness can help you!
(226) 917-2740 View (226) 917-2740
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.