Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Ottawa, ON

Photo of Yuval Dinary, Registered Social Worker in Ottawa, ON
Yuval Dinary
Registered Social Worker, BSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1N  (Online Only)
Experiencing a bipolar or psychotic episode is often disorienting and frightening. Racing thoughts, intense emotions, and confusion over reality can leave you feeling lost and vulnerable. You’re not sure how to cope or go about your day. You may not even know where to go from here. The aftermath of an episode or inpatient treatment can be just as challenging as the onset of symptoms. It feels overwhelming grappling with uncertainty, shame, and trying to rebuild your sense of self and daily life. When all of this is combined with anxiety, depression, or addiction, it’s not uncommon to feel at a loss for how to get through the day.
Experiencing a bipolar or psychotic episode is often disorienting and frightening. Racing thoughts, intense emotions, and confusion over reality can leave you feeling lost and vulnerable. You’re not sure how to cope or go about your day. You may not even know where to go from here. The aftermath of an episode or inpatient treatment can be just as challenging as the onset of symptoms. It feels overwhelming grappling with uncertainty, shame, and trying to rebuild your sense of self and daily life. When all of this is combined with anxiety, depression, or addiction, it’s not uncommon to feel at a loss for how to get through the day.
(437) 292-4717 View (437) 292-4717
Photo of Completely You Counselling & Psychotherapy, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Completely You Counselling & Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, MSc, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1H
Specializing in depression, bipolar disorder, and loss and transition.
Compassionate therapy to support you through life's biggest challenges. With you at the center; to hear your unique needs and goals, to support your transition with a variety of evidence-based approaches and tools to best meet your needs as you journey from hardship to live your fullest life. Allowing a space of warmth and acceptance to appreciate all the sides of you, to allow for greater awareness of the most difficult transitions and your needs at present, along with gentle questioning to allow for greater self-discovery to make sense of your journey and allow for greater acceptance to find your best way forward.
Specializing in depression, bipolar disorder, and loss and transition.
Compassionate therapy to support you through life's biggest challenges. With you at the center; to hear your unique needs and goals, to support your transition with a variety of evidence-based approaches and tools to best meet your needs as you journey from hardship to live your fullest life. Allowing a space of warmth and acceptance to appreciate all the sides of you, to allow for greater awareness of the most difficult transitions and your needs at present, along with gentle questioning to allow for greater self-discovery to make sense of your journey and allow for greater acceptance to find your best way forward.
(343) 304-6146 View (343) 304-6146
Photo of Kyera Lamoureux, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Kyera Lamoureux
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2P  (Online Only)
I've also worked with those who have Bipolar Disorder, eating disorders, depression, anxiety and more.
As a deeply empathic and experienced therapist, I seek to provide a safe and authentic space for clients to explore areas of distress and concern to them. Collaboration is of utmost importance to me as I seek to tailor the psychotherapeutic process to what will best suit the goals and needs of my clients.
I've also worked with those who have Bipolar Disorder, eating disorders, depression, anxiety and more.
As a deeply empathic and experienced therapist, I seek to provide a safe and authentic space for clients to explore areas of distress and concern to them. Collaboration is of utmost importance to me as I seek to tailor the psychotherapeutic process to what will best suit the goals and needs of my clients.
(613) 707-4480 View (613) 707-4480
Photo of Sukanya Mukherjee, Counsellor in Ottawa, ON
Sukanya Mukherjee
Counsellor, MSc, CCC, RCT-C
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1G  (Online Only)
My area of focus includes trauma (complex, PTSD, relational, attachment, childhood trauma), anxiety disorder (GAD, OCD, social anxiety), Mood disorders (Depression and Bipolar Disorder), Couples/ Relationship counselling, Personality disorders, LGBTQ+, Anger management, Grief, Stress management and Burnout, Body image, eating disorder & self-esteem.
Starting therapy and counselling takes courage and can be a significant moment in one’s life. I provide therapeutic environment that is safe, supportive, and non-judgmental, grounded in compassion and empathy, which allows you to uncover new insights and move at your own pace towards the changes you hope to create. My approach is collaborative and relational, where clients develop a long-lasting and secure connection in a safe space.
My area of focus includes trauma (complex, PTSD, relational, attachment, childhood trauma), anxiety disorder (GAD, OCD, social anxiety), Mood disorders (Depression and Bipolar Disorder), Couples/ Relationship counselling, Personality disorders, LGBTQ+, Anger management, Grief, Stress management and Burnout, Body image, eating disorder & self-esteem.
Starting therapy and counselling takes courage and can be a significant moment in one’s life. I provide therapeutic environment that is safe, supportive, and non-judgmental, grounded in compassion and empathy, which allows you to uncover new insights and move at your own pace towards the changes you hope to create. My approach is collaborative and relational, where clients develop a long-lasting and secure connection in a safe space.
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Photo of Sean O'Keeffe, Registered Social Worker in Ottawa, ON
Sean O'Keeffe
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1T  (Online Only)
At one time or another, the cliché that sometimes you just need a little help applies to us all. Unsure where to seek support? I would be happy to connect with you and help get you started on the path to better mental and emotional wellness. My focus is in supporting people with mental health issues within our diverse community. I offer psychotherapy services to adults and adolescents struggling with severe and persistent mental illness (Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety and Depression to name a few), substance use disorders, emotional dysregulation, domestic abuse, and involved with the criminal justice system.
At one time or another, the cliché that sometimes you just need a little help applies to us all. Unsure where to seek support? I would be happy to connect with you and help get you started on the path to better mental and emotional wellness. My focus is in supporting people with mental health issues within our diverse community. I offer psychotherapy services to adults and adolescents struggling with severe and persistent mental illness (Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety and Depression to name a few), substance use disorders, emotional dysregulation, domestic abuse, and involved with the criminal justice system.
(343) 308-2078 View (343) 308-2078
Photo of Marloes Nienhuis, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Ottawa, ON
Marloes Nienhuis
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA, RP(Q)
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2C  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My background is in helping clients to work through insomnia, ADHD, depressive and bipolar disorders, social anxiety, generalized anxiety, health anxiety as well as panic and obsessive compulsive disorders from a Cognitive Behavioural perspective.
I am a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO), a student member of the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA) as well as a therapist under supervision at CMAP Health. I completed a joint Bachelor of Honours in Psychology and Philosophy from Carleton University with a specialization in Neuroscience and Mental Health, as well as a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University.
My background is in helping clients to work through insomnia, ADHD, depressive and bipolar disorders, social anxiety, generalized anxiety, health anxiety as well as panic and obsessive compulsive disorders from a Cognitive Behavioural perspective.
I am a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO), a student member of the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA) as well as a therapist under supervision at CMAP Health. I completed a joint Bachelor of Honours in Psychology and Philosophy from Carleton University with a specialization in Neuroscience and Mental Health, as well as a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University.
(343) 453-0213 View (343) 453-0213
Photo of Ontario Psychotherapy: Trauma and Grief Therapist, Registered Social Worker in Ottawa, ON
Ontario Psychotherapy: Trauma and Grief Therapist
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2B  (Online Only)
My areas of practice include emotion dysregulation (BPD and bipolar disorder), depression and anxiety, and grief and loss.
Are you perpetually in fight or flight or shut down mode? Do your emotions feel out of control? Easily triggered? I'm Rachelle and I’m the face behind OPS, an online therapy practice. I specialize in nervous system stabilization. I work with those who have experienced trauma to process its emotional and the physical effects. My practice incorporates a focus on the mind-body connection, which most clients say was the missing piece in previous therapy. The body goes through just as much as the mind; effective therapy involves paying close attention to the body and developing nervous system resiliency.
My areas of practice include emotion dysregulation (BPD and bipolar disorder), depression and anxiety, and grief and loss.
Are you perpetually in fight or flight or shut down mode? Do your emotions feel out of control? Easily triggered? I'm Rachelle and I’m the face behind OPS, an online therapy practice. I specialize in nervous system stabilization. I work with those who have experienced trauma to process its emotional and the physical effects. My practice incorporates a focus on the mind-body connection, which most clients say was the missing piece in previous therapy. The body goes through just as much as the mind; effective therapy involves paying close attention to the body and developing nervous system resiliency.
(289) 806-5137 View (289) 806-5137
Photo of Shayna Nussbaum, Psychologist in Ottawa, ON
Shayna Nussbaum
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K0A
I can help with a broad range of issues, from mood and anxiety issues a severe mental illness such as bipolar disorder.
I will be there for you, to understand you and give you lots of room for whatever comes up. I work with people who have experienced trauma, pain, and are struggling to make meaning. If you wonder whether your therapist is going to be able to hold space for everything you're bringing, I'm a good fit for you. Whether it's anger, shame, hopelessness, thoughts of death, or things you never told anyone, I will be there and I can help you hold it. I believe in the inherent dignity of all people, and it shows. I am also solution-focused. We do not just sit with pain, we figure out how to make meaning together, so you can live well again.
I can help with a broad range of issues, from mood and anxiety issues a severe mental illness such as bipolar disorder.
I will be there for you, to understand you and give you lots of room for whatever comes up. I work with people who have experienced trauma, pain, and are struggling to make meaning. If you wonder whether your therapist is going to be able to hold space for everything you're bringing, I'm a good fit for you. Whether it's anger, shame, hopelessness, thoughts of death, or things you never told anyone, I will be there and I can help you hold it. I believe in the inherent dignity of all people, and it shows. I am also solution-focused. We do not just sit with pain, we figure out how to make meaning together, so you can live well again.
(647) 954-0026 View (647) 954-0026
Photo of Michael Labiak Nursing Professional Corporation, Psychiatric Nurse in Ottawa, ON
Michael Labiak Nursing Professional Corporation
Psychiatric Nurse, BScN
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1S  (Online Only)
We have staff well-versed in treating bipolar disorder, psychosis, trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, and addictions.
Accepting all clients, ages 18 and older. We have available Registered Nurse Psychotherapists, Registered Social Workers, and Qualifying Registered Psychotherapists. Our friendly and professional Psychotherapists will safely and conveniently deliver virtual therapy to you in the comfort of your own home. We utilize Cognitive Behavioural Therapy as evidence best practice shows it is the gold standard for Psychotherapy practice. I want to provide a therapeutic relationship between an experienced Psychotherapist and a client who needs help with anxiety, depression, trauma, anger, grief, or psychosis.
We have staff well-versed in treating bipolar disorder, psychosis, trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, and addictions.
Accepting all clients, ages 18 and older. We have available Registered Nurse Psychotherapists, Registered Social Workers, and Qualifying Registered Psychotherapists. Our friendly and professional Psychotherapists will safely and conveniently deliver virtual therapy to you in the comfort of your own home. We utilize Cognitive Behavioural Therapy as evidence best practice shows it is the gold standard for Psychotherapy practice. I want to provide a therapeutic relationship between an experienced Psychotherapist and a client who needs help with anxiety, depression, trauma, anger, grief, or psychosis.
(226) 799-0562 View (226) 799-0562
Photo of Brain Healthy Clinic, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Brain Healthy Clinic
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1A  (Online Only)
At Brain Healthy Clinic, we are dedicated to supporting your journey towards emotional well-being and personal growth. Our mission is to provide individualized strategies tailored specifically for you, empowering you to overcome life's challenges and lead a fulfilling life. Our team of therapists have a wide range of specialities including, but not limited to: dealing with the struggles of ADHD, Bipolar, Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Trauma, Sex Therapy, Marriage/Divorce/After-Divorce counselling, children's counselling, and many more.
At Brain Healthy Clinic, we are dedicated to supporting your journey towards emotional well-being and personal growth. Our mission is to provide individualized strategies tailored specifically for you, empowering you to overcome life's challenges and lead a fulfilling life. Our team of therapists have a wide range of specialities including, but not limited to: dealing with the struggles of ADHD, Bipolar, Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Trauma, Sex Therapy, Marriage/Divorce/After-Divorce counselling, children's counselling, and many more.
(289) 796-0804 View (289) 796-0804
Photo of Centre For Change, Psychologist in Ottawa, ON
Centre For Change
Psychologist, PhD, C Psych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1A
The Centre for Change offers psychological assessment, treatment (individual and group), and consultation for adults who want help with a range of issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma, work stress, and many other psychological concerns.
The Centre for Change offers psychological assessment, treatment (individual and group), and consultation for adults who want help with a range of issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma, work stress, and many other psychological concerns.
(343) 655-1690 View (343) 655-1690
Photo of Uniquely You Counselling and Psychotherapy, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Uniquely You Counselling and Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, Hons BA, MPH, MACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1P  (Online Only)
Are you exhausted with all of what you're struggling to manage? Has your worry gotten to a point that it seems to be taking over your life? Perhaps your anger has been deemed out of control. Whether it's stress, anxiety, depression, anger, sadness, or grief, I am here to help you work through the experiences and meanings of these emotions. Most importantly, in a productive and positive way. If it's relationship trouble, family conflict, or even workplace drama, we can work together to find solutions where possible; and, coping techniques throughout.
Are you exhausted with all of what you're struggling to manage? Has your worry gotten to a point that it seems to be taking over your life? Perhaps your anger has been deemed out of control. Whether it's stress, anxiety, depression, anger, sadness, or grief, I am here to help you work through the experiences and meanings of these emotions. Most importantly, in a productive and positive way. If it's relationship trouble, family conflict, or even workplace drama, we can work together to find solutions where possible; and, coping techniques throughout.
(705) 415-2780 View (705) 415-2780
Photo of Hakima Moktary, Registered Social Worker in Ottawa, ON
Hakima Moktary
Registered Social Worker, PhD (c), candida
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1J  (Online Only)
All of us struggle at some point with challenges in our lives. It’s normal. There is nothing wrong with asking for help. You may feel anxious or depressed. You may think that you are missing what’s important for you in terms of your cherished values. You may feel emotionally overwhelmed by work, relationships, or other life stressors.
All of us struggle at some point with challenges in our lives. It’s normal. There is nothing wrong with asking for help. You may feel anxious or depressed. You may think that you are missing what’s important for you in terms of your cherished values. You may feel emotionally overwhelmed by work, relationships, or other life stressors.
(343) 321-0905 View (343) 321-0905
Photo of Preeti Taneja, Registered Social Worker in Ottawa, ON
Preeti Taneja
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW, BSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1N
As the founder of Canadian Therapy we believe in the value of staying small and intimate. We prefer to be big on what matters most: your experience with our psychotherapists. Our client first approach ensures that your care is top of mind, and you experience intimate, attentive, personalized therapy throughout your relationship with your therapist. Authenticity is reflected in who we are, and what we offer. We are mindful that each individuals journey is unique and pride ourself on creating a unique online therapy experience better than any other clinic for our clients throughout Canada.
As the founder of Canadian Therapy we believe in the value of staying small and intimate. We prefer to be big on what matters most: your experience with our psychotherapists. Our client first approach ensures that your care is top of mind, and you experience intimate, attentive, personalized therapy throughout your relationship with your therapist. Authenticity is reflected in who we are, and what we offer. We are mindful that each individuals journey is unique and pride ourself on creating a unique online therapy experience better than any other clinic for our clients throughout Canada.
(437) 747-8566 View (437) 747-8566
Photo of Jay Rao, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Jay Rao
Registered Psychotherapist, BSc, MSc, RP
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1Z  (Online Only)
Charles Dickens once remarked that “a wonderful fact to reflect upon is that every human is a profound secret and mystery to every other." Despite how unique we all are, we often tend to spend much of our lives suffering, searching for happiness in places we struggle to ever find. Our wounds are the gateways to the most sacred parts of us and when we are open to new possibilities, we find what we had hoped for. It would be my honour to help make those possibilities your present realities.
Charles Dickens once remarked that “a wonderful fact to reflect upon is that every human is a profound secret and mystery to every other." Despite how unique we all are, we often tend to spend much of our lives suffering, searching for happiness in places we struggle to ever find. Our wounds are the gateways to the most sacred parts of us and when we are open to new possibilities, we find what we had hoped for. It would be my honour to help make those possibilities your present realities.
(587) 604-0868 View (587) 604-0868
Photo of Lori J, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Lori J
Registered Psychotherapist, CYC , RP
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1J  (Online Only)
Welcome! I specialize in supporting children and youth, though I am open to working with adults as well. My expertise covers a range of issues, including self-esteem, confidence, emotional regulation, school difficulties, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, family conflict, peer relationships, parenting challenges, and communication hurdles.
Welcome! I specialize in supporting children and youth, though I am open to working with adults as well. My expertise covers a range of issues, including self-esteem, confidence, emotional regulation, school difficulties, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, family conflict, peer relationships, parenting challenges, and communication hurdles.
(343) 801-4431 View (343) 801-4431
Photo of The Centre for Couples and Relationships, Registered Social Worker in Ottawa, ON
The Centre for Couples and Relationships
Registered Social Worker, RP, CCC, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2B
At The Centre for Couples and Relationships, we believe that intimate relationships are central to human connection, attachment, and well-being. As we go through life stressors and challenges, so do our relationships. If your relationship is in need of improved communication, deeper connection, or repair, we can help. We work with couples and partners struggling with issues such as communication, disconnection, intimacy, infidelity, and family dynamics. We provide a safe and supportive environment for you to explore your relationship dynamics and to repair previous patterns of conflict or hurt.
At The Centre for Couples and Relationships, we believe that intimate relationships are central to human connection, attachment, and well-being. As we go through life stressors and challenges, so do our relationships. If your relationship is in need of improved communication, deeper connection, or repair, we can help. We work with couples and partners struggling with issues such as communication, disconnection, intimacy, infidelity, and family dynamics. We provide a safe and supportive environment for you to explore your relationship dynamics and to repair previous patterns of conflict or hurt.
(343) 306-5497 View (343) 306-5497
Photo of Kirsten Posluns, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Kirsten Posluns
Registered Psychotherapist, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2P
Making the decision to seek help in facing life’s challenges is not always an easy one, and I would be honoured to be a part of your journey towards living a more balanced and meaningful life. I take a client-centred approach to therapy, and will work with you to create a treatment plan that suits your specific needs. I aim to provide a safe and nurturing environment in which we can identify, explore, and address the parts of your life that just aren’t working, as well as clarify your values – the things that are most important to you – and incorporate them into your life.
Making the decision to seek help in facing life’s challenges is not always an easy one, and I would be honoured to be a part of your journey towards living a more balanced and meaningful life. I take a client-centred approach to therapy, and will work with you to create a treatment plan that suits your specific needs. I aim to provide a safe and nurturing environment in which we can identify, explore, and address the parts of your life that just aren’t working, as well as clarify your values – the things that are most important to you – and incorporate them into your life.
(343) 430-0384 View (343) 430-0384
Photo of YourTherapist Psychotherapy and Counselling , Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
YourTherapist Psychotherapy and Counselling
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1P
YourTherapist Psychotherapy and Counselling is a specialized mental health clinic that provides evidence-based, compassionate, and affordable mental health services across Ontario. Our highly skilled psychotherapists have been extensively trained to treat a variety of mental illnesses with interventions that are personalized to each client’s needs, including psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Attachment-Based Therapy, and Trauma-Focused Interventions to individuals, couples, and families.
YourTherapist Psychotherapy and Counselling is a specialized mental health clinic that provides evidence-based, compassionate, and affordable mental health services across Ontario. Our highly skilled psychotherapists have been extensively trained to treat a variety of mental illnesses with interventions that are personalized to each client’s needs, including psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Attachment-Based Therapy, and Trauma-Focused Interventions to individuals, couples, and families.
(343) 304-6238 View (343) 304-6238
Photo of Michelle Sorensen, Psychologist in Ottawa, ON
Michelle Sorensen
Psychologist, MEd, CPsych
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2E
Are you looking to make change in your life? I use cognitive behavioural therapy, which is based on years of research and empirical evidence, to help people get to the roots of their problems and make lasting change. For some clients, I integrate mindfulness training into my approach. This involves developing self-compassion, accepting what we cannot control and living in the present moment. I strongly believe in a collaborative approach to therapy, and take a very active role in guiding my clients.
Are you looking to make change in your life? I use cognitive behavioural therapy, which is based on years of research and empirical evidence, to help people get to the roots of their problems and make lasting change. For some clients, I integrate mindfulness training into my approach. This involves developing self-compassion, accepting what we cannot control and living in the present moment. I strongly believe in a collaborative approach to therapy, and take a very active role in guiding my clients.
(343) 306-0364 View (343) 306-0364

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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.