Photo of Checking In Counselling & Consulting, Registered Psychotherapist in Port Colborne, ON
Checking In Counselling & Consulting
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, CHyp
Verified Verified
Port Colborne, ON L3K
Psychotherapy is a confidential, collaborative process in order to achieve improved health and happiness. Amanda is passionate about positive psychology and applies a strengths-based approach to treatment. You will work together to understand and navigate life’s relationships, stressors and emotional experiences. Amanda will work with you in an authentic and compassionate way, utilizing an integrated approach to meet your individual needs – helping you create a more balanced and enjoyable life.
Psychotherapy is a confidential, collaborative process in order to achieve improved health and happiness. Amanda is passionate about positive psychology and applies a strengths-based approach to treatment. You will work together to understand and navigate life’s relationships, stressors and emotional experiences. Amanda will work with you in an authentic and compassionate way, utilizing an integrated approach to meet your individual needs – helping you create a more balanced and enjoyable life.
(289) 277-5551 View (289) 277-5551

More Therapists Nearby

David James Cockman
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Welland, ON L3B
David James & Associates strongly believe the promotion of health strengthens an individual and families well-being. David James & Associates are inspired and challenged by five core values: compassion, purpose, commitment, passion and confidence
David James & Associates strongly believe the promotion of health strengthens an individual and families well-being. David James & Associates are inspired and challenged by five core values: compassion, purpose, commitment, passion and confidence
(855) 979-8951 View (855) 979-8951
Photo of Diane Milton, Registered Psychotherapist in Port Colborne, ON
Diane Milton
Registered Psychotherapist, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Welland, ON L3B
Do you find yourself wondering why you respond the way you do? Your actions, thoughts, and even your feelings too often don’t align with the person you either want to be or know yourself to be? You find yourself repeating the same patterns, feeling trapped in a loop? I work from the position that we start out with unlimited potential and then “life happens”, our experiences can get stuck, not fully processed or integrated. This can make us more reactive, feeling like we are the mercy of our emotions, thoughts, and actions.
Do you find yourself wondering why you respond the way you do? Your actions, thoughts, and even your feelings too often don’t align with the person you either want to be or know yourself to be? You find yourself repeating the same patterns, feeling trapped in a loop? I work from the position that we start out with unlimited potential and then “life happens”, our experiences can get stuck, not fully processed or integrated. This can make us more reactive, feeling like we are the mercy of our emotions, thoughts, and actions.
(289) 216-4934 View (289) 216-4934
Photo of George Nicolaidi, Registered Social Worker in Port Colborne, ON
George Nicolaidi
Registered Social Worker, MEd, RSW, OAMHP
Verified Verified
Welland, ON L3B
Coming to the realization that reaching out for help is necessary, can be both cathartic and scary. Choosing a counsellor also has its challenges of being the right one. A positive therapeutic bond,or fit with a counsellor,can affect the outcome of the experience. It has been my privilege to help thousands of individuals, couples and groups throughout my lengthy career of 33+ years in Child Welfare, private practise and university settings. I have learned that although we share human experiences our uniqueness sets us apart from others. I treat my clients respectfully, with care and unconditional positive regard and advocacy.
Coming to the realization that reaching out for help is necessary, can be both cathartic and scary. Choosing a counsellor also has its challenges of being the right one. A positive therapeutic bond,or fit with a counsellor,can affect the outcome of the experience. It has been my privilege to help thousands of individuals, couples and groups throughout my lengthy career of 33+ years in Child Welfare, private practise and university settings. I have learned that although we share human experiences our uniqueness sets us apart from others. I treat my clients respectfully, with care and unconditional positive regard and advocacy.
(289) 210-7368 View (289) 210-7368
Photo of Cindy Rose - Wellness Counselling Centre, Registered Psychotherapist in Port Colborne, ON
Cindy Rose - Wellness Counselling Centre
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, OSRP, CCTP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Welland, ON L3B
Accepting new clients: Along your life journey you, or your child/adolescent, may have hit unanticipated challenges, transitions, or trauma, impacting your well-being and capacity to move forward. Others may view you as someone who has it all together, but internally you are stressed, anxious, unmotivated, or shut down. Perhaps, this is happening to your child, or adolescent, and as a parent you have exhausted all ideas, and don’t know where to turn. These difficulties are impacting the emotional/mental health of yourself, your relationships, your work, your schooling, and/or your family dynamics, leaving you feeling unfulfilled.
Accepting new clients: Along your life journey you, or your child/adolescent, may have hit unanticipated challenges, transitions, or trauma, impacting your well-being and capacity to move forward. Others may view you as someone who has it all together, but internally you are stressed, anxious, unmotivated, or shut down. Perhaps, this is happening to your child, or adolescent, and as a parent you have exhausted all ideas, and don’t know where to turn. These difficulties are impacting the emotional/mental health of yourself, your relationships, your work, your schooling, and/or your family dynamics, leaving you feeling unfulfilled.
(289) 274-6927 View (289) 274-6927
Photo of Brittani Ali, Registered Social Worker in Port Colborne, ON
Brittani Ali
Registered Social Worker, BA, BSW, RSW, MSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Welland, ON L3B
Now welcoming new clients (offering in person, virtual, evening/ weekends, pay what you can & sliding scale options). We prioritize a compassionate, judgment free space. We offer a client-centred, trauma-focused & attachment-based approach to supporting mental and relational health. We believe that we all come to therapy with complex experiences that often connect and impact us, therefore, our approach will always honour your story and how the parts of it weave together. Britt has gained experience supporting individuals & families over the last 10 years working in the social services field. Britt also provides some supervision.
Now welcoming new clients (offering in person, virtual, evening/ weekends, pay what you can & sliding scale options). We prioritize a compassionate, judgment free space. We offer a client-centred, trauma-focused & attachment-based approach to supporting mental and relational health. We believe that we all come to therapy with complex experiences that often connect and impact us, therefore, our approach will always honour your story and how the parts of it weave together. Britt has gained experience supporting individuals & families over the last 10 years working in the social services field. Britt also provides some supervision.
(226) 781-0988 View (226) 781-0988
Photo of Ian Robertson Social Work Professional Corp., Registered Social Worker in Port Colborne, ON
Ian Robertson Social Work Professional Corp.
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Welland, ON L3B
I have worked as a clinician for over 25 years. I have considerable experience with family, couples and individual therapy. Working with addictions, mental health, trauma, and youth related issues are strong areas of interest. As a clinical traumatologist and an Advanced Clinical Supervisor, I have specific interest and extensive training in trauma. A significant component of my private practice is couples and family therapy. Couples therapy is an opportunity to help couples that are simply stuck move towards resolution and rediscover a meaningful relationship. There are times where resolution may not be the goal for both parties. Mediation services are also available.
I have worked as a clinician for over 25 years. I have considerable experience with family, couples and individual therapy. Working with addictions, mental health, trauma, and youth related issues are strong areas of interest. As a clinical traumatologist and an Advanced Clinical Supervisor, I have specific interest and extensive training in trauma. A significant component of my private practice is couples and family therapy. Couples therapy is an opportunity to help couples that are simply stuck move towards resolution and rediscover a meaningful relationship. There are times where resolution may not be the goal for both parties. Mediation services are also available.
(289) 277-0102 View (289) 277-0102
Photo of Family Kinnections, Registered Psychotherapist in Port Colborne, ON
Family Kinnections
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, BCW, CYW, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Welland, ON L3C
Is your child's behaviour driving you crazy? Is your child or teen suffering from Depression, anxiety, or other problems? Do you want your child or teen to feel healthy, happy, and get along with you? I specialize in the treatment of child, youth and family mental health concerns, including: ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, self-harm, OCD, anger, Autism/aspergers, separation/divorce, and behaviour problems (defiance, aggression, hostility). I have over 15 years of experience in child and youth mental health, including work in community counselling centers, hospital psychiatric treatment, and residential treatment centers.
Is your child's behaviour driving you crazy? Is your child or teen suffering from Depression, anxiety, or other problems? Do you want your child or teen to feel healthy, happy, and get along with you? I specialize in the treatment of child, youth and family mental health concerns, including: ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, self-harm, OCD, anger, Autism/aspergers, separation/divorce, and behaviour problems (defiance, aggression, hostility). I have over 15 years of experience in child and youth mental health, including work in community counselling centers, hospital psychiatric treatment, and residential treatment centers.
(289) 302-6907 x2 View (289) 302-6907 x2
Photo of Tyler Harris, Registered Psychotherapist in Port Colborne, ON
Tyler Harris
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, OAMHP, MACP, BA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Welland, ON L3B  (Online Only)
In my work, I think about the honour it is to support people on their mental health journey. It is hard enough to reach out for support and thank you for checking out my profile. Clients who come to see me have various goals that they wish to work on. Many of my clients seek me for support with trauma, anxiety, depression, or various other mental health concerns. A lot of times, I work with people on ways to increase the quality of life and support their various mental health goals. In fact, I use the "whatever it takes" method, meaning I am happy to do whatever it takes to support your goals. It's a real method, check it out!
In my work, I think about the honour it is to support people on their mental health journey. It is hard enough to reach out for support and thank you for checking out my profile. Clients who come to see me have various goals that they wish to work on. Many of my clients seek me for support with trauma, anxiety, depression, or various other mental health concerns. A lot of times, I work with people on ways to increase the quality of life and support their various mental health goals. In fact, I use the "whatever it takes" method, meaning I am happy to do whatever it takes to support your goals. It's a real method, check it out!
(289) 210-6249 View (289) 210-6249

Online Therapists

Photo of Adriana King Aurora Therapy Neurofeedback, Registered Psychotherapist in Port Colborne, ON
Adriana King Aurora Therapy Neurofeedback
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, CTIC, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Aurora, ON L4G
I am a passionate therapist dedicated working with clients who have experienced childhood-developmental trauma, relational trauma, intimate partner abuse, bullying, or PTSD. Clients that experience traumatic events tend to struggle with on-going anxiety and depression, relationship issues, become labelled as bipolar and experience borderline personality disorder. Do you struggle with eating disorders, addictions, self-harming behaviours & suicided ideation? Have you tried talk-therapy but achieved suboptimal results, and are looking for alternative treatment to avoid relying on medication alone? Let's explore clinical Neurofeedback!
I am a passionate therapist dedicated working with clients who have experienced childhood-developmental trauma, relational trauma, intimate partner abuse, bullying, or PTSD. Clients that experience traumatic events tend to struggle with on-going anxiety and depression, relationship issues, become labelled as bipolar and experience borderline personality disorder. Do you struggle with eating disorders, addictions, self-harming behaviours & suicided ideation? Have you tried talk-therapy but achieved suboptimal results, and are looking for alternative treatment to avoid relying on medication alone? Let's explore clinical Neurofeedback!
(289) 236-0191 View (289) 236-0191
Photo of Henry Wong, Registered Social Worker in Port Colborne, 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 Caitlin Doherty, Registered Social Worker in Port Colborne, ON
Caitlin Doherty
Registered Social Worker, RSW, BSW, MA
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M6H  (Online Only)
My name is Cait (she/they) and I am a registered social worker. I work with clients from where they are at, working collaboratively to figure out what challenges you, what you want to process and learn from. I am not here to tell you what to do, but to support in figuring out next steps, skills and processing trauma and life events. I work with clients to figure out what they need, their values, their identity and their boundaries. I work extensively with clients who are neurodivergent and/or have Bipolar Disorder or Borderline Personality Disorder, although I have experience with many mental health challenges.
My name is Cait (she/they) and I am a registered social worker. I work with clients from where they are at, working collaboratively to figure out what challenges you, what you want to process and learn from. I am not here to tell you what to do, but to support in figuring out next steps, skills and processing trauma and life events. I work with clients to figure out what they need, their values, their identity and their boundaries. I work extensively with clients who are neurodivergent and/or have Bipolar Disorder or Borderline Personality Disorder, although I have experience with many mental health challenges.
(289) 806-3368 View (289) 806-3368
Photo of Ashley Murphy Kilgar, Registered Social Worker, Psychotherapist in Port Colborne, ON
Ashley Murphy Kilgar
Registered Social Worker, Psychotherapist, BA hons, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Guelph, ON N1H
I have expertise working with mental health (anxiety, depression, psychosis, bipolar, & personality disorders).
I am a caring and skilled therapist. I work with individuals, couples and families who are having difficulty coping with life stressors, addiction and mental health concerns. I support people to work through relationship, work, family and other life challenges. Using a non-judgmental approach I support you to move forward and make difficult but positive changes in your life. Each person I support is unique and will receive individualized treatment based on needs. I value in depth assessments to ensure that your situation and needs are understood. We will work together in a way that ensures your comfort and satisfaction with therapy.
I have expertise working with mental health (anxiety, depression, psychosis, bipolar, & personality disorders).
I am a caring and skilled therapist. I work with individuals, couples and families who are having difficulty coping with life stressors, addiction and mental health concerns. I support people to work through relationship, work, family and other life challenges. Using a non-judgmental approach I support you to move forward and make difficult but positive changes in your life. Each person I support is unique and will receive individualized treatment based on needs. I value in depth assessments to ensure that your situation and needs are understood. We will work together in a way that ensures your comfort and satisfaction with therapy.
(226) 962-2242 View (226) 962-2242
Photo of Staci N Weingust, Registered Social Worker in Port Colborne, ON
Staci N Weingust
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oshawa, ON L1G  (Online Only)
I have over 25 years of experience in the field of Healthcare, with extensive experience working with clients with mental health issues, addiction issues, and court-related issues. During this time, I have worked with individuals of varying ages, couples, families and groups. I see people with a varied range of issues including mood disorders (depression, anxiety, bipolar), trauma, borderline personality, issues of psychosis, phobias, obsessive compulsive behaviours, eating disorders, dual diagnosis, sexual issues, conduct disorder, anger issues and behavioural concerns.
I have over 25 years of experience in the field of Healthcare, with extensive experience working with clients with mental health issues, addiction issues, and court-related issues. During this time, I have worked with individuals of varying ages, couples, families and groups. I see people with a varied range of issues including mood disorders (depression, anxiety, bipolar), trauma, borderline personality, issues of psychosis, phobias, obsessive compulsive behaviours, eating disorders, dual diagnosis, sexual issues, conduct disorder, anger issues and behavioural concerns.
(647) 371-0849 View (647) 371-0849
Photo of Alessandra Marques, Registered Social Worker in Port Colborne, 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 Adrian Daniels, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Port Colborne, ON
Adrian Daniels
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MEd, HBSc
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M4K
Hello! My name is Adrian and I am passionate about delivering affordable quality psychotherapy to underserved and vulnerable communities. I have over 10 years of counselling and peer support experience. Additionally, I have 15 years of practice and training in applied mindfulness and compassion cultivation. I have a wealth of experience working within the private mental healthcare sector, as well as working with community-based organizations. I specialize in working with bipolar disorder, other mood and anxiety disorders, sexual and gender diversity issues, sex addiction, as well as with intersex folks, HIV+ folks, sex workers.
Hello! My name is Adrian and I am passionate about delivering affordable quality psychotherapy to underserved and vulnerable communities. I have over 10 years of counselling and peer support experience. Additionally, I have 15 years of practice and training in applied mindfulness and compassion cultivation. I have a wealth of experience working within the private mental healthcare sector, as well as working with community-based organizations. I specialize in working with bipolar disorder, other mood and anxiety disorders, sexual and gender diversity issues, sex addiction, as well as with intersex folks, HIV+ folks, sex workers.
(647) 955-2768 View (647) 955-2768
Photo of Noor Alassadi in Port Colborne, ON
Noor Alassadi
PhD, MS, OAMHP, CBT, OACYC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M2N
Here is the best place to find your inner strength. Yes, I help you to heal from your pain, your grief, or sadness. But also, I am here to help you move forward and repair yourself so you are stronger than you used to be! I have experience in working with different mental health concerns including abuse, bullying, ADHD, ADD, ASD, OCD, anxiety, conduct disorder, bipolar, schizophrenia, academic/intellectual limitations, emotional disorders, suicidal ideation, panic attacks, depression, emotional eating, cultural shock, immigration challenges, diversity, and trauma/PTSD.
Here is the best place to find your inner strength. Yes, I help you to heal from your pain, your grief, or sadness. But also, I am here to help you move forward and repair yourself so you are stronger than you used to be! I have experience in working with different mental health concerns including abuse, bullying, ADHD, ADD, ASD, OCD, anxiety, conduct disorder, bipolar, schizophrenia, academic/intellectual limitations, emotional disorders, suicidal ideation, panic attacks, depression, emotional eating, cultural shock, immigration challenges, diversity, and trauma/PTSD.
(289) 302-7077 View (289) 302-7077
Photo of Celine Williams-Tracey, Registered Social Worker in Port Colborne, ON
Celine Williams-Tracey
Registered Social Worker, HBSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Brampton, ON L6V  (Online Only)
I specialize in trauma informed counselling, intimate partner violence, mental health(depression, anxiety and bipolar).
Are you feeling alone? Are you feeling emotionally stuck? Are you feeling as if you are coasting and not reaching your goals? Are you feeling uncertain about your life journey? Are you wanting to heal from trauma and struggles that have continued to impact your daily life? Do you feel emotionally and mentally debilitated? What are your ultimate internal life goal(s)? Awakening Counselling offers a safe and relaxing space to process and delve deep into the inner workings of the self and to ultimately achieve peace of mind. Give us a call or message us for more information.
I specialize in trauma informed counselling, intimate partner violence, mental health(depression, anxiety and bipolar).
Are you feeling alone? Are you feeling emotionally stuck? Are you feeling as if you are coasting and not reaching your goals? Are you feeling uncertain about your life journey? Are you wanting to heal from trauma and struggles that have continued to impact your daily life? Do you feel emotionally and mentally debilitated? What are your ultimate internal life goal(s)? Awakening Counselling offers a safe and relaxing space to process and delve deep into the inner workings of the self and to ultimately achieve peace of mind. Give us a call or message us for more information.
(844) 329-7484 View (844) 329-7484
Photo of Gray Matter Health -Brampton Psychotherapists, Registered Social Worker in Port Colborne, 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 Kayla Ortese, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Port Colborne, ON
Kayla Ortese
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), M, A, C, P
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Brampton, ON L6W
As a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), I firmly believe in the concept of "Therapy is Beyond the Couch," acknowledging that healing, growth, and balance extends beyond our sessions. My practice lies in guiding clients through their unique journeys, assisting them in overcoming challenges, and fostering a path towards holistic well-being. My approach revolves around fostering a secure and non-judgmental space, encouraging you to delve into your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. I perceive life's trials as catalysts for personal evolution, acknowledging the profound beauty that can emerge amidst adversity.
As a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), I firmly believe in the concept of "Therapy is Beyond the Couch," acknowledging that healing, growth, and balance extends beyond our sessions. My practice lies in guiding clients through their unique journeys, assisting them in overcoming challenges, and fostering a path towards holistic well-being. My approach revolves around fostering a secure and non-judgmental space, encouraging you to delve into your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. I perceive life's trials as catalysts for personal evolution, acknowledging the profound beauty that can emerge amidst adversity.
(289) 274-9595 View (289) 274-9595

See more therapy options for Port Colborne


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.