Photo of Noor Alassadi in Toronto, 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 Ashlyn Fisher, Registered Social Worker in Toronto, ON
Ashlyn Fisher
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5V
Ashlyn Fisher completed her undergraduate degree in Psychology and obtained her Masters of Social Work degree from The University of Toronto. Ashlyn began her clinical practice working with individuals of all ages and backgrounds suffering from eating disorders and co-occurring mental health issues. During Ashlyn's internships, she acquired additional clinical experience providing one on one counselling to adults suffering from addictions and severe mental illnesses such as bipolar affective disorder, schizophrenia, and extreme depression and anxiety. Additionally, Ashlyn worked as a child and family therapist at the SickKids Centre for Community Mental Health where her focus was on assessment and intervention.
Ashlyn Fisher completed her undergraduate degree in Psychology and obtained her Masters of Social Work degree from The University of Toronto. Ashlyn began her clinical practice working with individuals of all ages and backgrounds suffering from eating disorders and co-occurring mental health issues. During Ashlyn's internships, she acquired additional clinical experience providing one on one counselling to adults suffering from addictions and severe mental illnesses such as bipolar affective disorder, schizophrenia, and extreme depression and anxiety. Additionally, Ashlyn worked as a child and family therapist at the SickKids Centre for Community Mental Health where her focus was on assessment and intervention.
(844) 280-2462 x356 View (844) 280-2462 x356
Photo of Talia Marcheggiani, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Toronto, ON
Talia Marcheggiani
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), ND
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6S  (Online Only)
I have worked with a variety of mental health and physical conditions, such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, PMDD, Bipolar, among other conditions.
I believe in trauma-informed, shame-free, compassionate, person-centred care that empowers you and honours your body, mind, and emotions. In addition to being a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), I am a licensed Naturopathic Doctor (since 2014) focusing on mental health, hormones, mood, and digestion.
I have worked with a variety of mental health and physical conditions, such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, PMDD, Bipolar, among other conditions.
I believe in trauma-informed, shame-free, compassionate, person-centred care that empowers you and honours your body, mind, and emotions. In addition to being a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), I am a licensed Naturopathic Doctor (since 2014) focusing on mental health, hormones, mood, and digestion.
(647) 797-2618 View (647) 797-2618
Photo of Edith Townsend, Registered Social Worker in Toronto, ON
Edith Townsend
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6R
I have specialities which include compulsive behaviours such as hypersexuality, gambling, video gaming, shopping, and eating behaviours as well as OCD and bipolar disorder.
With over 22 years of clinical experience and training in the fields of addiction, mental health, relationships and trauma, my practice offers evidence-based therapies to provide an opportunity for clients to attain self-awareness, behaviour change, and personal growth and recovery in an environment that is supportive and non-judgmental. My interests include mood disorders such as anxiety and depression, relationship issues, life transitions, self esteem, and substance and behavioural addictions. I'm dedicated to helping clients build a healthier relationship with themselves and others.
I have specialities which include compulsive behaviours such as hypersexuality, gambling, video gaming, shopping, and eating behaviours as well as OCD and bipolar disorder.
With over 22 years of clinical experience and training in the fields of addiction, mental health, relationships and trauma, my practice offers evidence-based therapies to provide an opportunity for clients to attain self-awareness, behaviour change, and personal growth and recovery in an environment that is supportive and non-judgmental. My interests include mood disorders such as anxiety and depression, relationship issues, life transitions, self esteem, and substance and behavioural addictions. I'm dedicated to helping clients build a healthier relationship with themselves and others.
(226) 779-7805 View (226) 779-7805
Photo of Michael Labiak Nursing Professional Corporation, Psychiatric Nurse in Toronto, ON
Michael Labiak Nursing Professional Corporation
Psychiatric Nurse, BScN
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M5P  (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 Marci Gray -Social Worker Emdr Psychotherapist, Registered Social Worker in Toronto, ON
Marci Gray -Social Worker Emdr Psychotherapist
Registered Social Worker, BA, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M2M
What are you going through? Let’s work together to sort it out, make steps towards recovery, & come to resolution and healing. In a safe and non-judgemental space we focus on your challenges, symptoms and needs. Whether you are seeking individual, couple, or family therapy we can engage in the most appropriate therapeutic solutions for you. I have 20 years experience in the field and have specialized training in treatment for anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, OCD, PTSD, & trauma in addition to couples therapy. I’m trained in EMDR, CBT, DBT, EFT etc. I am also the therapist for therapists.
What are you going through? Let’s work together to sort it out, make steps towards recovery, & come to resolution and healing. In a safe and non-judgemental space we focus on your challenges, symptoms and needs. Whether you are seeking individual, couple, or family therapy we can engage in the most appropriate therapeutic solutions for you. I have 20 years experience in the field and have specialized training in treatment for anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, OCD, PTSD, & trauma in addition to couples therapy. I’m trained in EMDR, CBT, DBT, EFT etc. I am also the therapist for therapists.
(647) 360-2175 View (647) 360-2175
Photo of Jacqueline Heron, Registered Psychotherapist in Toronto, ON
Jacqueline Heron
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, MA, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5B
Are you stressed, overwhelmed, fearful, anxious, depressed, hopeless and discouraged? Do you have difficulties coping and making decisions? Has life become too much of a struggle and you don't know what to do to get out of this rut? Are you looking for purpose and fulfillment in life? If you answer yes to any of these questions, I can help! I will help you find hope, strengthen and motivation to change things, so that life can feel worthwhile again. I am a Registered Psychotherapist with 18 years experience assisting clients overcome challenges related to depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, trauma, adjustment and substance abuse.
Are you stressed, overwhelmed, fearful, anxious, depressed, hopeless and discouraged? Do you have difficulties coping and making decisions? Has life become too much of a struggle and you don't know what to do to get out of this rut? Are you looking for purpose and fulfillment in life? If you answer yes to any of these questions, I can help! I will help you find hope, strengthen and motivation to change things, so that life can feel worthwhile again. I am a Registered Psychotherapist with 18 years experience assisting clients overcome challenges related to depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, trauma, adjustment and substance abuse.
(647) 503-4115 View (647) 503-4115
Photo of Temo Keshelashvili, Registered Psychotherapist in Toronto, ON
Temo Keshelashvili
Registered Psychotherapist, MSc
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M4Y
Psychoanalysis is a way to understand and overcome different levels and forms of stress generated by challenging events or deficits occurring in human life. Those undesirable events are sometimes too intense to affect human personality and cause suffering and challenging existential moments. In those moments, we feel the emotional need for personal psychological support that implies not only professional readiness and personal maturity to help but also concrete humanistic values cultivated in our professional ethics. The therapist's ability to connect on an emotional level and arrive at a rational understanding > > >
Psychoanalysis is a way to understand and overcome different levels and forms of stress generated by challenging events or deficits occurring in human life. Those undesirable events are sometimes too intense to affect human personality and cause suffering and challenging existential moments. In those moments, we feel the emotional need for personal psychological support that implies not only professional readiness and personal maturity to help but also concrete humanistic values cultivated in our professional ethics. The therapist's ability to connect on an emotional level and arrive at a rational understanding > > >
(437) 747-5243 View (437) 747-5243
Photo of Dynamic Health Collaborative Holistic Mental Health Clinic in Toronto, ON
Dynamic Health Collaborative Holistic Mental Health Clinic
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M3H
The ideal therapy client seeks support in navigating life's challenges and achieving personal growth. They may struggle with issues like anxiety, depression, or relationship difficulties. Their needs include empathy, validation, and practical coping strategies to manage their emotions and behaviors effectively. Their goal is to enhance their well-being, find inner peace, and cultivate healthier relationships. Ultimately, they want to gain insight into themselves, develop resilience, and live a more fulfilling life. They pursue therapy because they value their mental health and are committed to their own self-improvement journey.
The ideal therapy client seeks support in navigating life's challenges and achieving personal growth. They may struggle with issues like anxiety, depression, or relationship difficulties. Their needs include empathy, validation, and practical coping strategies to manage their emotions and behaviors effectively. Their goal is to enhance their well-being, find inner peace, and cultivate healthier relationships. Ultimately, they want to gain insight into themselves, develop resilience, and live a more fulfilling life. They pursue therapy because they value their mental health and are committed to their own self-improvement journey.
(647) 492-2764 View (647) 492-2764
Photo of Get Therapy Toronto, Registered Social Worker in Toronto, ON
Get Therapy Toronto
Registered Social Worker, MA, LCSW-C, RSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M4P  (Online Only)
When you pick up the phone to start therapy, you are halfway there. The initial call can be the hardest one. Low self-esteem, relationship issues, depression, anger, grief, loss, trauma, family dynamics -- these are all issues we can work through together. I integrate empathy, theory, skills, and knowledge obtained through years of experience into an intuitive therapy process. While I provide a solid, well-structured treatment plan, I am open to a variety of techniques that will help ensure that your experience is a success.
When you pick up the phone to start therapy, you are halfway there. The initial call can be the hardest one. Low self-esteem, relationship issues, depression, anger, grief, loss, trauma, family dynamics -- these are all issues we can work through together. I integrate empathy, theory, skills, and knowledge obtained through years of experience into an intuitive therapy process. While I provide a solid, well-structured treatment plan, I am open to a variety of techniques that will help ensure that your experience is a success.
(647) 797-9362 View (647) 797-9362
Photo of Paul Kelly, Psychologist in Toronto, ON
Paul Kelly
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M5G
The Mindfulness Clinic offers a combination of modern psychotherapy alongside training in mindfulness and meditation to help you make positive changes in your life by dealing with your immediate and long term concerns. Our 30+ therapists offer mindfulness psychotherapy to help you feel your best and reach your goals. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic we are currently offering services remotely via video conferencing or telephone. Our services are covered by most insurance plans.
The Mindfulness Clinic offers a combination of modern psychotherapy alongside training in mindfulness and meditation to help you make positive changes in your life by dealing with your immediate and long term concerns. Our 30+ therapists offer mindfulness psychotherapy to help you feel your best and reach your goals. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic we are currently offering services remotely via video conferencing or telephone. Our services are covered by most insurance plans.
(289) 206-7241 View (289) 206-7241
Photo of Christy DiFelice, Registered Psychotherapist in Toronto, ON
Christy DiFelice
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M8V
I am a Registered Psychotherapist, Counsellor and Traditional Healer. I help people break free of old, heavy patterns and beliefs, so they can truly shine. I see us all as artists. When we learn to recreate our inner worlds, our external worlds begin to change, making new pathways and opportunities possible.
I am a Registered Psychotherapist, Counsellor and Traditional Healer. I help people break free of old, heavy patterns and beliefs, so they can truly shine. I see us all as artists. When we learn to recreate our inner worlds, our external worlds begin to change, making new pathways and opportunities possible.
(249) 202-2027 View (249) 202-2027
Photo of Courtney Kannampuzha, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Toronto, ON
Courtney Kannampuzha
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), HBSc, MA, RP-Q
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5T  (Online Only)
Do you find yourself sometimes burdened by the struggles of everyday life, and find it difficult to derive positive meaning from overwhelming circumstances? We may feel that by swallowing our pain, proceeding with everyday life, and putting on a brave face that we are acting in an admirable way, but in actuality, finding the strength to seek help when you yourself need it the most is far more courageous. This can be a difficult task and may force you to assess areas in your life that you would rather forget about. But the work you do on yourself is vital in the start of a new, brighter tomorrow.
Do you find yourself sometimes burdened by the struggles of everyday life, and find it difficult to derive positive meaning from overwhelming circumstances? We may feel that by swallowing our pain, proceeding with everyday life, and putting on a brave face that we are acting in an admirable way, but in actuality, finding the strength to seek help when you yourself need it the most is far more courageous. This can be a difficult task and may force you to assess areas in your life that you would rather forget about. But the work you do on yourself is vital in the start of a new, brighter tomorrow.
(647) 370-9078 View (647) 370-9078
Photo of Krista Roesler Online Life Coaching in Toronto, ON
Krista Roesler Online Life Coaching
Bsc, MA
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M4P
Are you Ready to Change your life? Our team of warm, caring, passionate and well-equipped therapists and life coaches can help you thrive in your career, relationships and any other area of your life that could use some improvement. We will help you work through any emotional or mental health challenges that you may be experiencing. Many people try to overcome these issues on their own. Running the risk of relapsing back into old habits and patterns or even spiraling further back from where they started. We’ll teach you the approaches and tools to help you reach your goals and set you up for sustainable success.
Are you Ready to Change your life? Our team of warm, caring, passionate and well-equipped therapists and life coaches can help you thrive in your career, relationships and any other area of your life that could use some improvement. We will help you work through any emotional or mental health challenges that you may be experiencing. Many people try to overcome these issues on their own. Running the risk of relapsing back into old habits and patterns or even spiraling further back from where they started. We’ll teach you the approaches and tools to help you reach your goals and set you up for sustainable success.
(647) 370-7681 View (647) 370-7681
Photo of Talya Feldman-Lloyd, Registered Psychotherapist in Toronto, ON
Talya Feldman-Lloyd
Registered Psychotherapist, 00, 93, 72
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M4P
I help people reclaim their truest, most authentic selves. I work with people with: mental health issues/ mental illness, sex and intimacy struggles, lack of boundaries, trauma, grief and bereavement, low self-esteem and lack of self love, suicidal ideation, anger management, and more. I am happy to work with clients who are committed to the healing process; who show up consistently, who are willing to put in the work, are honest with both themselves and myself, and are open-minded to try alternative tools and techniques.
I help people reclaim their truest, most authentic selves. I work with people with: mental health issues/ mental illness, sex and intimacy struggles, lack of boundaries, trauma, grief and bereavement, low self-esteem and lack of self love, suicidal ideation, anger management, and more. I am happy to work with clients who are committed to the healing process; who show up consistently, who are willing to put in the work, are honest with both themselves and myself, and are open-minded to try alternative tools and techniques.
(647) 493-9185 View (647) 493-9185
Photo of Sara Peters, Registered Psychotherapist in Toronto, ON
Sara Peters
Registered Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M5V
You may come to therapy because you feel lost, alone, angry, confused, empty, fearful, betrayed, or hopeless. Or not. You may be struggling with anxiety, depression, identity, relationships, unwanted thoughts and feelings, addictions, shame, or guilt. Or not. You may come to therapy because you want to understand how your early experiences are shaping your life. Or you may be curious about the therapeutic process, more generally. Or not.
You may come to therapy because you feel lost, alone, angry, confused, empty, fearful, betrayed, or hopeless. Or not. You may be struggling with anxiety, depression, identity, relationships, unwanted thoughts and feelings, addictions, shame, or guilt. Or not. You may come to therapy because you want to understand how your early experiences are shaping your life. Or you may be curious about the therapeutic process, more generally. Or not.
(647) 360-5896 View (647) 360-5896
Photo of Andrew Guthrie, Counsellor in Toronto, ON
Andrew Guthrie
Counsellor, PhD, Tcpp di, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M4S
Andrew Guthrie, Ph.D., Tcpp dip., R.P. has been a psychotherapist in Toronto since 2000. He trained at Concordia and McGill Universities, the University of Toronto, the Toronto Child Psychoanalytic Program, and the Toronto Institute of Contemporary Psychoanalysis. He offers psychodynamic assessments and psychotherapy that reflect a deep knowledge of the psychotherapy field and a genuine commitment to the patients in his care. He treats a wide variety of emotional and behavioural problems with his professional yet compassionate approach. Please call or email for more information, or visit his website www.therapyintoronto.com.
Andrew Guthrie, Ph.D., Tcpp dip., R.P. has been a psychotherapist in Toronto since 2000. He trained at Concordia and McGill Universities, the University of Toronto, the Toronto Child Psychoanalytic Program, and the Toronto Institute of Contemporary Psychoanalysis. He offers psychodynamic assessments and psychotherapy that reflect a deep knowledge of the psychotherapy field and a genuine commitment to the patients in his care. He treats a wide variety of emotional and behavioural problems with his professional yet compassionate approach. Please call or email for more information, or visit his website www.therapyintoronto.com.
(855) 411-0316 View (855) 411-0316
Photo of Bruce Dow, Registered Psychotherapist in Toronto, ON
Bruce Dow
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MPS, MFA, BFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M4Y
In my clinical work, I use an integrative, client centred approach in the treatment of addiction, anxiety, body, gender identity and sexuality, career stress, depression, eating disorders, family issues, porn addiction, relationship issues, sexual abuse, sexual problems, spiritual experience, religious wound, and trauma. Together we will explore which modalities best suits your needs: Attachment Theory; Emotion Focused Therapy (EFS / IFIOS); Existential Psychotherapy; Family Systems Therapy; Internal Family Systems; Narrative Therapy; Sex Therapy; Psychospiritual Care; or Trauma-Related Dissociation interventions.
In my clinical work, I use an integrative, client centred approach in the treatment of addiction, anxiety, body, gender identity and sexuality, career stress, depression, eating disorders, family issues, porn addiction, relationship issues, sexual abuse, sexual problems, spiritual experience, religious wound, and trauma. Together we will explore which modalities best suits your needs: Attachment Theory; Emotion Focused Therapy (EFS / IFIOS); Existential Psychotherapy; Family Systems Therapy; Internal Family Systems; Narrative Therapy; Sex Therapy; Psychospiritual Care; or Trauma-Related Dissociation interventions.
(437) 600-9605 View (437) 600-9605
Photo of Amanda R Guthrie, Registered Psychotherapist in Toronto, ON
Amanda R Guthrie
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, ND
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M4L  (Online Only)
I offer therapy to increase your resiliency to life's challenges and to reduce the suffering from anxiety, depression and high stress levels. I provide a warm, nonjudgmental environment, helping you see your problems with more clarity and to make changes in how you cope with difficulties. I have extensive training in Mindfulness-based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). I offer active, practical and goal-oriented therapy. Rather than simply talk about your problems, I will listen, reflect and then help you implement solutions to problems or to make changes in your thinking patterns and actions.
I offer therapy to increase your resiliency to life's challenges and to reduce the suffering from anxiety, depression and high stress levels. I provide a warm, nonjudgmental environment, helping you see your problems with more clarity and to make changes in how you cope with difficulties. I have extensive training in Mindfulness-based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). I offer active, practical and goal-oriented therapy. Rather than simply talk about your problems, I will listen, reflect and then help you implement solutions to problems or to make changes in your thinking patterns and actions.
(437) 747-4836 View (437) 747-4836
Photo of Clinical-Supervision Resource Centre, Registered Psychotherapist in Toronto, ON
Clinical-Supervision Resource Centre
Registered Psychotherapist, EdD, MA, RP
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M5H
As a new clinician, you may be feeling overwhelmed and frustrated with finding qualified Canadian Clinical Supervisors who can not only help you obtain your supervision hours but also provide meaningful support towards your professional growth within a Canadian context. The problem is, too many new clinicians like you are reaching dead ends and road blocks towards locating and accessing a Supervisor…this is a devastating and pain-staking experience! This is a fundamental and necessary component to your professional development, and you don’t have time to waste. So it is vital you make the right match with a clinical supervisor
As a new clinician, you may be feeling overwhelmed and frustrated with finding qualified Canadian Clinical Supervisors who can not only help you obtain your supervision hours but also provide meaningful support towards your professional growth within a Canadian context. The problem is, too many new clinicians like you are reaching dead ends and road blocks towards locating and accessing a Supervisor…this is a devastating and pain-staking experience! This is a fundamental and necessary component to your professional development, and you don’t have time to waste. So it is vital you make the right match with a clinical supervisor
(437) 747-6290 View (437) 747-6290

See more therapy options for Toronto

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.