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More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Michael Best, Psychologist in Smithville, ON
Dr. Michael Best
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
Hamilton, ON L0R
As a clinical psychologist I provide assessment and treatment services to people experiencing a wide range of mental health difficulties including psychosis, bipolar disorder, depression, personality disorders, anxiety, stress, relationship issues, and grief. I specialize in treating serious mental health conditions such as schizophrenia, psychosis, and bipolar disorder but also treat a wide variety of difficulties. The therapeutic relationship is a critical component to therapy and I work collaboratively with clients to identify goals, understand problem areas, and implement a treatment plan to overcome those problems.
As a clinical psychologist I provide assessment and treatment services to people experiencing a wide range of mental health difficulties including psychosis, bipolar disorder, depression, personality disorders, anxiety, stress, relationship issues, and grief. I specialize in treating serious mental health conditions such as schizophrenia, psychosis, and bipolar disorder but also treat a wide variety of difficulties. The therapeutic relationship is a critical component to therapy and I work collaboratively with clients to identify goals, understand problem areas, and implement a treatment plan to overcome those problems.
(647) 372-5036 View (647) 372-5036
Photo of Dundas Counselling & Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Registered Social Worker in Smithville, ON
Dundas Counselling & Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
Registered Social Worker, PhD, MSW, RSW, RP
Verified Verified
Waterdown, ON L0R
Are you struggling with your mood, anxiety or other personal or life problems? We provide treatment for depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, PTSD, grief, relationship conflicts and other interpersonal problems.
Dundas Counselling & CBT provides counselling and psychotherapy services that are tailored to your unique needs and have been shown to be effective in clinical research. By taking a collaborative approach, we can help you identify the sources of your stress or your problems, and move towards strengthening coping skills and finding successful solutions.
Are you struggling with your mood, anxiety or other personal or life problems? We provide treatment for depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, PTSD, grief, relationship conflicts and other interpersonal problems.
Dundas Counselling & CBT provides counselling and psychotherapy services that are tailored to your unique needs and have been shown to be effective in clinical research. By taking a collaborative approach, we can help you identify the sources of your stress or your problems, and move towards strengthening coping skills and finding successful solutions.
(289) 684-3581 View (289) 684-3581
Photo of Revati Ravuvari, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Smithville, ON
Revati Ravuvari
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA, BEd, MACP, RP (Q)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L0R
New Clients Welcome- Hello! Even when you’re around others, do you ever feel depressed or lonely? Does it seem like worry is controlling your relationships or your life? Most likely, this isn’t the life you had imagined for yourself. I believe you deserve better. When my clients need assistance with depression, trauma, relationship conflicts, or other issues, they frequently come to me. I deal with people who want to solve their problems and reclaim their happiness, including women, children, and couples. You might discover that you’re enthusiastic about what lies ahead once you’ve been able to overcome what’s been holding
New Clients Welcome- Hello! Even when you’re around others, do you ever feel depressed or lonely? Does it seem like worry is controlling your relationships or your life? Most likely, this isn’t the life you had imagined for yourself. I believe you deserve better. When my clients need assistance with depression, trauma, relationship conflicts, or other issues, they frequently come to me. I deal with people who want to solve their problems and reclaim their happiness, including women, children, and couples. You might discover that you’re enthusiastic about what lies ahead once you’ve been able to overcome what’s been holding
(289) 277-6846 View (289) 277-6846
Photo of Chelsey Mastroianni, Registered Psychotherapist in Smithville, ON
Chelsey Mastroianni
Registered Psychotherapist, BA Hons, MA, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L0R  (Online Only)
Do you believe that you need meaningful change in your life? Are you overwhelmed, worried, or feel a lack of enjoyment for the activities you once loved? Sometimes life presents us with challenges that create feelings of depression, anxiety, and the inability to cope, however, I am here to let you know that it can get better. It's hard taking the first step towards healing and wellness, but I commend you for your courage in doing so.
Do you believe that you need meaningful change in your life? Are you overwhelmed, worried, or feel a lack of enjoyment for the activities you once loved? Sometimes life presents us with challenges that create feelings of depression, anxiety, and the inability to cope, however, I am here to let you know that it can get better. It's hard taking the first step towards healing and wellness, but I commend you for your courage in doing so.
(289) 277-4897 View (289) 277-4897
Photo of Myles Chisholm, Registered Psychotherapist in Smithville, ON
Myles Chisholm
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L0R  (Online Only)
With over a decade of experience in the field of psychotherapy, I have witnessed the transformative power of healing first-hand. My extensive training in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR) allows me to employ evidence-based techniques tailored to your unique needs. Throughout my career, I have successfully supported clients dealing with a wide range of challenges, including trauma, PTSD, Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), developmental trauma, panic disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
With over a decade of experience in the field of psychotherapy, I have witnessed the transformative power of healing first-hand. My extensive training in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR) allows me to employ evidence-based techniques tailored to your unique needs. Throughout my career, I have successfully supported clients dealing with a wide range of challenges, including trauma, PTSD, Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), developmental trauma, panic disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
(365) 645-9181 View (365) 645-9181
Photo of Eryl McCaffrey, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Smithville, ON
Eryl McCaffrey
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP-Q, MACP, RYT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L0R
If you're feeling anxious, overwhelmed, stuck, and disconnected from yourself, you have come to the right place. Let me walk alongside you and offer you a safe and supportive space to explore your experiences and learn new, empowering ways of responding to your challenges. I'm a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) and Certified Yoga Teacher, and I blend mindfulness, neuroscience, and psychology with my own mental health and addiction recovery tools to offer clients a unique, holistic approach to healing. I've been where you are and I know this: you don't have to do this "work" alone.
If you're feeling anxious, overwhelmed, stuck, and disconnected from yourself, you have come to the right place. Let me walk alongside you and offer you a safe and supportive space to explore your experiences and learn new, empowering ways of responding to your challenges. I'm a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) and Certified Yoga Teacher, and I blend mindfulness, neuroscience, and psychology with my own mental health and addiction recovery tools to offer clients a unique, holistic approach to healing. I've been where you are and I know this: you don't have to do this "work" alone.
(647) 365-1729 View (647) 365-1729
Photo of Brandy Weaver, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Smithville, ON
Brandy Weaver
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP-Q, MA, BA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L0R
It is ok not to be okay. Life is hard. In the words of B. Withers, “sometimes in our lives we all have pain, we all have sorrow; but if we are wise we know that there’s always tomorrow. Lean on me, when you’re not strong… I’ll help you carry on.” Let me support you on your journey towards wellness. I’m a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO), and the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA). I have a master's degree in counselling psychology, and over sixteen years of experience working in mental health.
It is ok not to be okay. Life is hard. In the words of B. Withers, “sometimes in our lives we all have pain, we all have sorrow; but if we are wise we know that there’s always tomorrow. Lean on me, when you’re not strong… I’ll help you carry on.” Let me support you on your journey towards wellness. I’m a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO), and the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA). I have a master's degree in counselling psychology, and over sixteen years of experience working in mental health.
(226) 457-2315 View (226) 457-2315
Photo of Wayne Dewhurst, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Smithville, ON
Wayne Dewhurst
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RPQ
Verified Verified
Hamilton, ON L0R
Wayne has over 20 years experience of counselling in a variety of arenas. His ability combines both life practice and learned psychological methods to help clients. His counselling is natural and easy. Most find a few sessions are enough to gain what they are needing to begin healing and find best practices. He specializes in couples/family therapy and has an appreciation and skill for individual therapy too! (anger, addiction, depression and more) www.dewycounselling.com
Wayne has over 20 years experience of counselling in a variety of arenas. His ability combines both life practice and learned psychological methods to help clients. His counselling is natural and easy. Most find a few sessions are enough to gain what they are needing to begin healing and find best practices. He specializes in couples/family therapy and has an appreciation and skill for individual therapy too! (anger, addiction, depression and more) www.dewycounselling.com
(289) 278-8862 View (289) 278-8862
Photo of Stephanie Dinsmore, Registered Social Worker in Smithville, ON
Stephanie Dinsmore
Registered Social Worker, EdD, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
28 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L0R
My counselling style is strengths-focused and client-centered. I am trained in a variety of therapeutic modalities including Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Trauma Informed Therapy, Gottman Method, Narrative, ACT, Solution Focused Therapy, and incorporate Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy principles (MBCT). I focus on addressing present life challenges while integrating past experiences. My services are suitable for individuals, couples, and families that are feeling overwhelmed by their thoughts, emotions, and life experiences. Reduced Fee for Service available with the Psychotherapy Intern.
My counselling style is strengths-focused and client-centered. I am trained in a variety of therapeutic modalities including Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Trauma Informed Therapy, Gottman Method, Narrative, ACT, Solution Focused Therapy, and incorporate Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy principles (MBCT). I focus on addressing present life challenges while integrating past experiences. My services are suitable for individuals, couples, and families that are feeling overwhelmed by their thoughts, emotions, and life experiences. Reduced Fee for Service available with the Psychotherapy Intern.
(226) 778-4617 View (226) 778-4617
Photo of Cassandra Etherington, Registered Social Worker in Smithville, ON
Cassandra Etherington
Registered Social Worker, RSW, BSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Hamilton, ON L0R
I frequently hear from the people I support, that it feels like no one is really listening. Our existing relationships often don’t allow us to be SEEN and HEARD accurately, in the way that we need to be seen and heard. My goal as a therapist, is to offer a compassionate, non-judgmental presence, where you can feel seen, heard, and valued. It is my belief that through a collaborative counselling relationship we can start to become more connected to ourselves, as well as to those around us.
I frequently hear from the people I support, that it feels like no one is really listening. Our existing relationships often don’t allow us to be SEEN and HEARD accurately, in the way that we need to be seen and heard. My goal as a therapist, is to offer a compassionate, non-judgmental presence, where you can feel seen, heard, and valued. It is my belief that through a collaborative counselling relationship we can start to become more connected to ourselves, as well as to those around us.
(289) 277-7554 View (289) 277-7554
Photo of Gulneet Mand, Aasra Therapy & Counselling, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Smithville, ON
Gulneet Mand, Aasra Therapy & Counselling
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), Bsc, DipPsyc
Verified Verified
Waterdown, ON L0R  (Online Only)
If you feel anxious, stressed, overwhelmed and feel that no one around you seems to understand, you are not alone. It can be very challenging to navigate day to day life while trying to make sense of this anxiety and stress. Many changes including breaking up, divorce, job loss, death of a loved one can lead to feeling lost or stuck. Trying to balance two cultures where on one side is your family's expectations and on the other side is western world's norms around dating, relationships and work can cause confusion around identity and self worth.
If you feel anxious, stressed, overwhelmed and feel that no one around you seems to understand, you are not alone. It can be very challenging to navigate day to day life while trying to make sense of this anxiety and stress. Many changes including breaking up, divorce, job loss, death of a loved one can lead to feeling lost or stuck. Trying to balance two cultures where on one side is your family's expectations and on the other side is western world's norms around dating, relationships and work can cause confusion around identity and self worth.
(289) 276-7374 View (289) 276-7374
Photo of Mark Thompson, Registered Social Worker in Smithville, ON
Mark Thompson
Registered Social Worker, CYC, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Binbrook, ON L0R
My approach to therapy involves integrating an individual's unique strengths with evidence-based therapeutic techniques. I specialize in providing therapy to children, adolescents, adults, and individuals living with a developmental disability. Drawing upon my experiences working in community-based and inpatient mental health services, I feel my role as a therapist is to provide a collaborative, personalized form of support that facilitates movement towards an individual's full potential. I utilize a number of techniques and therapies including Mindfulness, Trauma-informed care, Play-based therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
My approach to therapy involves integrating an individual's unique strengths with evidence-based therapeutic techniques. I specialize in providing therapy to children, adolescents, adults, and individuals living with a developmental disability. Drawing upon my experiences working in community-based and inpatient mental health services, I feel my role as a therapist is to provide a collaborative, personalized form of support that facilitates movement towards an individual's full potential. I utilize a number of techniques and therapies including Mindfulness, Trauma-informed care, Play-based therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
(289) 236-5730 View (289) 236-5730
Photo of Janine Davies, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Smithville, ON
Janine Davies
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Binbrook, ON L0R
I believe everyone is the expert in their own life, they may just need some help to navigate life's challenges. A strong therapeutic relationship is the key to clients meeting their goals, and I strive to create a space where pre-teens to adults feel safe to talk, share and explore challenges they are facing. I value collaboration and tailor treatment to each individual/ family/ relationship, and I utilize a number of evidence-based techniques to help clients work through obstacles, develop healthy coping habits, and flourish in their life.
I believe everyone is the expert in their own life, they may just need some help to navigate life's challenges. A strong therapeutic relationship is the key to clients meeting their goals, and I strive to create a space where pre-teens to adults feel safe to talk, share and explore challenges they are facing. I value collaboration and tailor treatment to each individual/ family/ relationship, and I utilize a number of evidence-based techniques to help clients work through obstacles, develop healthy coping habits, and flourish in their life.
(365) 661-4409 View (365) 661-4409
Photo of Seunghee (Sandy) Cho, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Smithville, ON
Seunghee (Sandy) Cho
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L0R
Life isn't a linear journey; it's a complex masterpiece filled with experiences that often challenge and inspire us. I am here to walk this journey with you, navigating the twists and turns, and celebrating the unexpected detours that lead to profound personal growth. I specialize in working with individuals facing challenges such as anxiety, perfectionism, self-criticism, and unique experiences related to self-identity. I approach therapy with the belief that you are the expert of your own story. I am deeply curious about your interpretations, the nuances that hold meaning for you, and the strategies you employ to foster growth.
Life isn't a linear journey; it's a complex masterpiece filled with experiences that often challenge and inspire us. I am here to walk this journey with you, navigating the twists and turns, and celebrating the unexpected detours that lead to profound personal growth. I specialize in working with individuals facing challenges such as anxiety, perfectionism, self-criticism, and unique experiences related to self-identity. I approach therapy with the belief that you are the expert of your own story. I am deeply curious about your interpretations, the nuances that hold meaning for you, and the strategies you employ to foster growth.
(416) 726-8115 View (416) 726-8115
Photo of Kimberly Cato, Registered Psychotherapist in Smithville, ON
Kimberly Cato
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
Hamilton, ON L0R
Welcome & Hello. My name is Kimberly Cato and I am the Registered Psychotherapist who has been Founder & CEO of True Roots Counselling Services for more than 25 years. It is my passion, my heart’s delight, to come alongside people blindsided and overwhelmed by life-altering circumstances and empower them to Transform Their Trauma Into Triumph. We are SO very delighted that you have made the difficult & courageous decision to reach out for help. Here at True Roots Counselling Services, we offer Individual, Couples, Family & Group Therapy and various Therapeutic Programs strategically designed through a trauma-informed lens.
Welcome & Hello. My name is Kimberly Cato and I am the Registered Psychotherapist who has been Founder & CEO of True Roots Counselling Services for more than 25 years. It is my passion, my heart’s delight, to come alongside people blindsided and overwhelmed by life-altering circumstances and empower them to Transform Their Trauma Into Triumph. We are SO very delighted that you have made the difficult & courageous decision to reach out for help. Here at True Roots Counselling Services, we offer Individual, Couples, Family & Group Therapy and various Therapeutic Programs strategically designed through a trauma-informed lens.
(289) 806-5104 View (289) 806-5104
Photo of Katie Schermerhorn, Registered Psychotherapist in Smithville, ON
Katie Schermerhorn
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, BA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Binbrook, ON L0R
I specialize in treating anxiety, trauma and addictions (both behavioral and substance related). I have been in the counselling field since 2012 and bring experience and extensive training to my practice. I believe that with the right support, we are all able to overcome challenges that we never thought possible. I am an approved Mental Health Provider for the NIHB Program for eligible First Nations People. Online sessions also available. I am trained in a variety of methods, including Brainspotting and EMDR for trauma.
I specialize in treating anxiety, trauma and addictions (both behavioral and substance related). I have been in the counselling field since 2012 and bring experience and extensive training to my practice. I believe that with the right support, we are all able to overcome challenges that we never thought possible. I am an approved Mental Health Provider for the NIHB Program for eligible First Nations People. Online sessions also available. I am trained in a variety of methods, including Brainspotting and EMDR for trauma.
(289) 277-0143 View (289) 277-0143
Photo of Vanessa Lacoursier (Psychotherapy For You), Registered Social Worker in Smithville, ON
Vanessa Lacoursier (Psychotherapy For You)
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L0R
Hello! My name is Vanessa Lacoursiere. I am a Master Social Worker, Addictions Specialist, and Trauma-Informed Therapist. I am a Professional Mental Health Counsellor on the Psychotherapy For You team and look forward to providing you support. I can provide consultations, treatment plans, and continuum of care referral services for individuals, couples, and families, ages 15-up. A little about me, I believe, “You cannot know where you are going, unless you know where you’ve been!” Nelly McClung. This quote speaks to my passion and experience for self-exploration to find resolve and the clarity required for next steps.
Hello! My name is Vanessa Lacoursiere. I am a Master Social Worker, Addictions Specialist, and Trauma-Informed Therapist. I am a Professional Mental Health Counsellor on the Psychotherapy For You team and look forward to providing you support. I can provide consultations, treatment plans, and continuum of care referral services for individuals, couples, and families, ages 15-up. A little about me, I believe, “You cannot know where you are going, unless you know where you’ve been!” Nelly McClung. This quote speaks to my passion and experience for self-exploration to find resolve and the clarity required for next steps.
(226) 455-7768 View (226) 455-7768
Photo of Emily Alton, Registered Psychotherapist in Smithville, ON
Emily Alton
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L0R
Feeling worried or distressed about something? Do intrusive thoughts interfere with daily activities? Talking to someone about mental health can be scary but also empowering. Our work together will be guided by you each step of the way, as you are the expert on your own experiences. By understanding how our emotions connect to our behaviours, we are better able to navigate our day-to-day lives. Whether it's stress, nerves, fears, sadness, or anything else, I am here to listen with a non-judgmental lens. I hope to be here for your next big step in this journey.
Feeling worried or distressed about something? Do intrusive thoughts interfere with daily activities? Talking to someone about mental health can be scary but also empowering. Our work together will be guided by you each step of the way, as you are the expert on your own experiences. By understanding how our emotions connect to our behaviours, we are better able to navigate our day-to-day lives. Whether it's stress, nerves, fears, sadness, or anything else, I am here to listen with a non-judgmental lens. I hope to be here for your next big step in this journey.
(365) 398-5126 View (365) 398-5126
Photo of Nancy Wangui, Registered Social Worker in Smithville, ON
Nancy Wangui
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Hamilton, ON L0R  (Online Only)
I am an experienced and dedicated registered social worker who is compassionate. I work with a diverse population who are dealing with a variety of challenges. I am a stronger believer you being an expert in you life, my role is to support and inspire you find that inner strength in in you. I work with each individual in their unique framework to help face the challenges. My practice is grounded on equity, inclusion, anti-racism and cultural sensitivity. I use person-centered, individualized, family centered, strength based approach. My practice involves clinical modalities of CBT, SFBT, ACT, and EMDR
I am an experienced and dedicated registered social worker who is compassionate. I work with a diverse population who are dealing with a variety of challenges. I am a stronger believer you being an expert in you life, my role is to support and inspire you find that inner strength in in you. I work with each individual in their unique framework to help face the challenges. My practice is grounded on equity, inclusion, anti-racism and cultural sensitivity. I use person-centered, individualized, family centered, strength based approach. My practice involves clinical modalities of CBT, SFBT, ACT, and EMDR
(289) 907-0411 View (289) 907-0411
Photo of The Bee Human Space - Gabriella Iannetti, Registered Social Worker in Smithville, ON
The Bee Human Space - Gabriella Iannetti
Registered Social Worker, BA, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L0R
Welcome! It takes courage & strength to reach out and we understand that it can be scary. You have already taken the most difficult step which is reaching out! We are here for you! We provide services to all ages specializing in anxiety, depression, stress, PTSD, & trauma. We want to support you on your journey and help you create connections so you can heal and thrive. We also host community events, workshops, & yoga that are designed to empower & inform.
Welcome! It takes courage & strength to reach out and we understand that it can be scary. You have already taken the most difficult step which is reaching out! We are here for you! We provide services to all ages specializing in anxiety, depression, stress, PTSD, & trauma. We want to support you on your journey and help you create connections so you can heal and thrive. We also host community events, workshops, & yoga that are designed to empower & inform.
(289) 210-4797 View (289) 210-4797

See more therapy options for Smithville

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.