Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Pierrefonds, QC

Photo of Lilli Janzen, Registered Psychotherapist in Pierrefonds, QC
Lilli Janzen
Registered Psychotherapist, MA , CCC
Verified Verified
Pierrefonds, QC H8Z
Therapists can help individuals, families, and children to understand and help resolve problems of all kinds. We are faced with many challenges. Some are familiar and we have managed to deal with them effectively. At other times the unknown arrives and we need to speak to someone to be able to understand our options and to move on with confidence. At the end we feel more at ease and stronger with the confidence that we did not realize we have. That is where we know that we have made a good decision to consult someone with knowledge about our situation and relating to someone who has the life experience to help us effectively.
Therapists can help individuals, families, and children to understand and help resolve problems of all kinds. We are faced with many challenges. Some are familiar and we have managed to deal with them effectively. At other times the unknown arrives and we need to speak to someone to be able to understand our options and to move on with confidence. At the end we feel more at ease and stronger with the confidence that we did not realize we have. That is where we know that we have made a good decision to consult someone with knowledge about our situation and relating to someone who has the life experience to help us effectively.
(514) 600-1880 View (514) 600-1880
Photo of Helene Zylberszac Psychotherapist in Pierrefonds, QC
Helene Zylberszac Psychotherapist
MSW, PSW
Verified Verified
Pierrefonds, QC H9H
As the Director of Resolutions Therapy Center, I bring a wealth of experience, having dedicated twenty-eight years to supporting couples, individuals, adolescents, and children. Our team provides a comprehensive range of psychological services, including assessments, consultations, psychotherapy, treatment programs, and coaching. At the heart of our center's focus, our services address marital conflict, depression, anxiety, burnout, bereavement, adoption, infertility, and sexual identity. Our goal is to empower individuals by recognizing their strengths and guiding them beyond negative beliefs to foster positive development.
As the Director of Resolutions Therapy Center, I bring a wealth of experience, having dedicated twenty-eight years to supporting couples, individuals, adolescents, and children. Our team provides a comprehensive range of psychological services, including assessments, consultations, psychotherapy, treatment programs, and coaching. At the heart of our center's focus, our services address marital conflict, depression, anxiety, burnout, bereavement, adoption, infertility, and sexual identity. Our goal is to empower individuals by recognizing their strengths and guiding them beyond negative beliefs to foster positive development.
(514) 400-2503 View (514) 400-2503

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Daniela Beer-Becker, Psychologist in Pierrefonds, QC
Daniela Beer-Becker
Psychologist, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pointe-Claire, QC H9R
Are you disappointed with the turn your life has taken? Do you find yourself overwhelmed by feelings of worry, sadness, loneliness, or anger? Do you find it hard to enjoy what you have today, but feel stuck in the past, or keep worrying about the future? Do you struggle to communicate your feelings effectively to others? When we don't learn to successfully deal with our thoughts and emotions, when past wounds are left unattended, they intensify, and get expressed in unproductive, angry, or hurtful ways towards yourself and the people you love.
Are you disappointed with the turn your life has taken? Do you find yourself overwhelmed by feelings of worry, sadness, loneliness, or anger? Do you find it hard to enjoy what you have today, but feel stuck in the past, or keep worrying about the future? Do you struggle to communicate your feelings effectively to others? When we don't learn to successfully deal with our thoughts and emotions, when past wounds are left unattended, they intensify, and get expressed in unproductive, angry, or hurtful ways towards yourself and the people you love.
(514) 319-1744 View (514) 319-1744
Photo of Dr. Lyane Trepanier, Psychologist in Pierrefonds, QC
Dr. Lyane Trepanier
Psychologist, PhD, MSc, OPQ
Verified Verified
Pointe-Claire, QC H9R
I help people suffering from sadness, anger, depression, feelings of loneliness. I offer a warm, empathetic, and non-judgmental presence to help you feel safe and accepted, while equipping you with the insight and the tools to help you feel better again. I provide psychotherapy to individuals dealing with trauma, sadness, anxiety, depression, anger, low self-esteem, relationships difficulties, and coaching for professional and career challenges. I adapt my approach according to your individual needs drawing from a mix of evidece-based approaches.
I help people suffering from sadness, anger, depression, feelings of loneliness. I offer a warm, empathetic, and non-judgmental presence to help you feel safe and accepted, while equipping you with the insight and the tools to help you feel better again. I provide psychotherapy to individuals dealing with trauma, sadness, anxiety, depression, anger, low self-esteem, relationships difficulties, and coaching for professional and career challenges. I adapt my approach according to your individual needs drawing from a mix of evidece-based approaches.
(438) 834-2765 View (438) 834-2765
Photo of Zikman and Associates CBT - Psychology Clinic, Psychologist in Pierrefonds, QC
Zikman and Associates CBT - Psychology Clinic
Psychologist, MEd, MA, OPQ, QUEBEC, ONTARIO
Verified Verified
Pointe-Claire, QC H9R
SAME-WEEK Appointments available. With 15+ years of experience and expertise in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), we're dedicated to helping clients lead healthier lives. Within a non-judgmental setting, we'll work with you to alleviate distress caused by personal, social, or workplace issues. We're skilled in treating Anxiety, Depression, Grief, Procrastination, Relationship, and Self-Esteem issues, as well as Academic and Workplace Adjustments. We're also sensitive to the unique challenges faced by the LGBTQIA+ community. We have carefully selected our team of therapists for their knowledge, professionalism, and relatability.
SAME-WEEK Appointments available. With 15+ years of experience and expertise in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), we're dedicated to helping clients lead healthier lives. Within a non-judgmental setting, we'll work with you to alleviate distress caused by personal, social, or workplace issues. We're skilled in treating Anxiety, Depression, Grief, Procrastination, Relationship, and Self-Esteem issues, as well as Academic and Workplace Adjustments. We're also sensitive to the unique challenges faced by the LGBTQIA+ community. We have carefully selected our team of therapists for their knowledge, professionalism, and relatability.
(438) 230-1040 View (438) 230-1040
Photo of Andrea Matheson, Psychologist in Pierrefonds, QC
Andrea Matheson
Psychologist, MEd, BA
Verified Verified
Pointe-Claire, QC H9R
Andrea Offers services in both Alberta and Quebec. For the past 18 years, Andrea has been working with individuals dealing with an array of personal issues. Some examples include: marriage discord, trauma, anxiety, depression, stress, burnout, PTSD, substance abuse disorders (SUD), Obsessive Compulsive Disorders (OCD), personality disorders and eating disorders. Andrea Matheson provides telehealth services in both Alberta and Quebec, Canada.
Andrea Offers services in both Alberta and Quebec. For the past 18 years, Andrea has been working with individuals dealing with an array of personal issues. Some examples include: marriage discord, trauma, anxiety, depression, stress, burnout, PTSD, substance abuse disorders (SUD), Obsessive Compulsive Disorders (OCD), personality disorders and eating disorders. Andrea Matheson provides telehealth services in both Alberta and Quebec, Canada.
(587) 400-1655 View (587) 400-1655
Photo of Dr. Alexandra Lerner Psychologist, Psychologist in Pierrefonds, QC
Dr. Alexandra Lerner Psychologist
Psychologist, PhD, OPQ
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pointe-Claire, QC H9B
If you're reading this, you have probably been feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or hopeless. You may be afraid that there is no way out of the dark hole of anxiety, depression, trauma, or grief. Perhaps you are sick of low self-esteem or procrastination sabotaging your life. Or you might be feeling totally alone and lost in your relationship, academic or workplace problems. You may be questioning if you are capable of change or ever feeling better. The answer is YES and I can help! With 15 years of experience, I am dedicated to helping clients lead healthier, more meaningful and productive lives.
If you're reading this, you have probably been feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or hopeless. You may be afraid that there is no way out of the dark hole of anxiety, depression, trauma, or grief. Perhaps you are sick of low self-esteem or procrastination sabotaging your life. Or you might be feeling totally alone and lost in your relationship, academic or workplace problems. You may be questioning if you are capable of change or ever feeling better. The answer is YES and I can help! With 15 years of experience, I am dedicated to helping clients lead healthier, more meaningful and productive lives.
(438) 701-9479 View (438) 701-9479
Photo of Dr. Stella Benarroch, Psychologist in Pierrefonds, QC
Dr. Stella Benarroch
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Pointe-Claire, QC H9R
Our team provides services utilizing best practices. We recently expanded our services to include adults as well as children and their families. In my 30 years working in mental health, I have held positions in a specialized school, a young offender facility, several psychiatric and medical facilities, as well as in several private practices. In my last position, I held the role of clinical director in a national multidisciplinary practice (Collage Pediatric Therapy). Currently, I am co-founder and director of a multidisciplinary practice providing speech-language, ABA, guidance, and psychology services to children and adults.
Our team provides services utilizing best practices. We recently expanded our services to include adults as well as children and their families. In my 30 years working in mental health, I have held positions in a specialized school, a young offender facility, several psychiatric and medical facilities, as well as in several private practices. In my last position, I held the role of clinical director in a national multidisciplinary practice (Collage Pediatric Therapy). Currently, I am co-founder and director of a multidisciplinary practice providing speech-language, ABA, guidance, and psychology services to children and adults.
(514) 839-9715 View (514) 839-9715
Photo of Rick Parker, Psychologist in Pierrefonds, QC
Rick Parker
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kirkland, QC H9H
My aim is to guide my clients towards understanding and acceptance of (being with) their emotional experience so that they feel complete, free and more connected to others. Engaging in therapy with me involves warmth and empathy, which allows my clients to freely express, and understand, their experience. I validate the experience of my clients so that they genuinely begin feel well with who they are. I use empirically supported treatments that treat difficult emotions such as sadness, anger, and fear (Emotion Focused Therapy) or problematic thinking patterns related to anxiety/depression (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy).
My aim is to guide my clients towards understanding and acceptance of (being with) their emotional experience so that they feel complete, free and more connected to others. Engaging in therapy with me involves warmth and empathy, which allows my clients to freely express, and understand, their experience. I validate the experience of my clients so that they genuinely begin feel well with who they are. I use empirically supported treatments that treat difficult emotions such as sadness, anger, and fear (Emotion Focused Therapy) or problematic thinking patterns related to anxiety/depression (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy).
(855) 996-3131 View (855) 996-3131
Photo of Howard Gontovnick Psychotherapist, Counsellor in Pierrefonds, QC
Howard Gontovnick Psychotherapist
Counsellor, BA, MA, PhD, OPQ
Verified Verified
Dollard-des-Ormeaux, QC H9B
Whether you are an individual or part of a couple. my therapeutic relationship emphasizes a high-quality interpersonal connection grounded in honesty, genuineness and compassion. Each session is primarily concerned with your capacity to endure, cope and discover that which can help you thrive in whatever challenging life situation that is at the forefront of your world. Together we will uncover what is known as well as the unknown sources of your discontentment. More importantly, we need to seek out realistic solutions that are attainable and helpful. Perhaps now is the right time to begin and take a bold step forward for yourself
Whether you are an individual or part of a couple. my therapeutic relationship emphasizes a high-quality interpersonal connection grounded in honesty, genuineness and compassion. Each session is primarily concerned with your capacity to endure, cope and discover that which can help you thrive in whatever challenging life situation that is at the forefront of your world. Together we will uncover what is known as well as the unknown sources of your discontentment. More importantly, we need to seek out realistic solutions that are attainable and helpful. Perhaps now is the right time to begin and take a bold step forward for yourself
(450) 686-2440 View (450) 686-2440
Photo of Clinique de Psychologie Zikman et Associés, Psychologist in Pierrefonds, QC
Clinique de Psychologie Zikman et Associés
Psychologist, MA, MEd, OPQ, QUEBEC, ONTARIO
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dorval, QC H9R
Avec plus de 15 ans d'expérience en thérapie cognitivo-comportementale (TCC), nous sommes dévoués à aider nos clients à mener une vie plus saine. Nous travaillerons avec vous pour atténuer la détresse causée par des problèmes personnels, sociaux ou professionnels. Nous sommes compétents dans le traitement de l'anxiété, de la dépression, du deuil, de la procrastination, des relations, de l'estime de soi, ainsi que de l'adaptation aux études et au travail. Nous sommes également sensibles aux besoins uniques de la communauté LGBTQIA+. Nous avons soigneusement sélectionné nos thérapeutes pour leurs connaissances et leur chaleur.
Avec plus de 15 ans d'expérience en thérapie cognitivo-comportementale (TCC), nous sommes dévoués à aider nos clients à mener une vie plus saine. Nous travaillerons avec vous pour atténuer la détresse causée par des problèmes personnels, sociaux ou professionnels. Nous sommes compétents dans le traitement de l'anxiété, de la dépression, du deuil, de la procrastination, des relations, de l'estime de soi, ainsi que de l'adaptation aux études et au travail. Nous sommes également sensibles aux besoins uniques de la communauté LGBTQIA+. Nous avons soigneusement sélectionné nos thérapeutes pour leurs connaissances et leur chaleur.
(438) 800-1936 View (438) 800-1936
Photo of Benjamin F Armstrong, Psychologist in Pierrefonds, QC
Benjamin F Armstrong
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Montréal, QC H8Y  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Change starts with the relationship that we form in the therapy and then continues by building useful skills in and outside of our sessions. In practice this means that I fit best with clients who are interested in (1) understanding more about their thoughts and emotions while also (2) taking clear steps to improve their mental and physical well-being. My job as the therapist is to provide a warm and caring environment to support the client in this process.
Change starts with the relationship that we form in the therapy and then continues by building useful skills in and outside of our sessions. In practice this means that I fit best with clients who are interested in (1) understanding more about their thoughts and emotions while also (2) taking clear steps to improve their mental and physical well-being. My job as the therapist is to provide a warm and caring environment to support the client in this process.
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Photo of Rebecca Fox, Counsellor in Pierrefonds, QC
Rebecca Fox
Counsellor, MSc, co
Verified Verified
Pointe-Claire, QC H9R
I am a licensed Counsellor, working towards obtaining my psychotherapy permit with the Ordre des Psychologues du Quebec. I have five years of experience working with clients, using various therapeutic approaches, and addressing a range of difficulties. I am passionate about helping others and believe in having a strong therapeutic alliance with my clients. My main area of expertise is Social Anxiety and I am dedicated in helping individuals overcome their social phobias so that they can continue to live meaningful lives with the relationships and friendships they wish to make and maintain.
I am a licensed Counsellor, working towards obtaining my psychotherapy permit with the Ordre des Psychologues du Quebec. I have five years of experience working with clients, using various therapeutic approaches, and addressing a range of difficulties. I am passionate about helping others and believe in having a strong therapeutic alliance with my clients. My main area of expertise is Social Anxiety and I am dedicated in helping individuals overcome their social phobias so that they can continue to live meaningful lives with the relationships and friendships they wish to make and maintain.
(514) 613-4272 View (514) 613-4272
Photo of Martine L'Ecuyer, Counsellor in Pierrefonds, QC
Martine L'Ecuyer
Counsellor, MA
Verified Verified
Pointe-Claire, QC H9R
A type of therapy beyond speech ... Whether it is to express emotions, regain power over your life or find tools for personal growth, which differentiates drama therapy from other forms of "psycho-therapy which are generally focused on speech "is that in dramatherapy, in addition to using words, we also use expressive tools that can pass through the whole body: projective techniques, bodily movements, breathing and mindfulness exercises, creation of rituals, creation of stories, improvisations, theory and method of roles, etc. The exploration process become therapeutic in itself.
A type of therapy beyond speech ... Whether it is to express emotions, regain power over your life or find tools for personal growth, which differentiates drama therapy from other forms of "psycho-therapy which are generally focused on speech "is that in dramatherapy, in addition to using words, we also use expressive tools that can pass through the whole body: projective techniques, bodily movements, breathing and mindfulness exercises, creation of rituals, creation of stories, improvisations, theory and method of roles, etc. The exploration process become therapeutic in itself.
(438) 299-8763 View (438) 299-8763
Photo of Jacqueline Miller, Psychologist in Pierrefonds, QC
Jacqueline Miller
Psychologist, MEd
Verified Verified
Dollard-des-Ormeaux, QC H9G
Are you struggling with anxiety? Constant worrying that makes it difficult to make decisions? Or suffering from unpredictable panic attacks that have led you to avoid people, places or particular situations? I have been helping people for over 18 years manage more effectively their anxiety, with proven evidence based strategies. I have worked with individuals of all ages and backgrounds to help them overcome anxiety, panic, phobias and PTSD. It can be difficult to address situations that you have been avoiding. Cognitive behavioral strategies can help you get back to your life.
Are you struggling with anxiety? Constant worrying that makes it difficult to make decisions? Or suffering from unpredictable panic attacks that have led you to avoid people, places or particular situations? I have been helping people for over 18 years manage more effectively their anxiety, with proven evidence based strategies. I have worked with individuals of all ages and backgrounds to help them overcome anxiety, panic, phobias and PTSD. It can be difficult to address situations that you have been avoiding. Cognitive behavioral strategies can help you get back to your life.
(514) 700-5127 View (514) 700-5127
Photo of Ian Zikman Psychologist, Psychologist in Pierrefonds, QC
Ian Zikman Psychologist
Psychologist, MEd, MA, OPQ, Quebec, Ontario
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pointe-Claire, QC H9R
Sometimes we find ourselves feeling overwhelmed, afraid, desperate, or alone. Maybe your relationships are spiraling or you never feel good enough. Perhaps you are unfulfilled at work or procrastination is sabotaging you. Your distress from anxiety, depression, or grief may have reached a new level and you can’t cope. I’m a therapist, but I’m human too, I’ve been there. Everybody needs a helping hand sometimes. I’m ready to be that person for you! I’ll help you get back on track. With 15+ years of experience and expertise in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), I’m dedicated to helping clients lead healthier, more productive lives.
Sometimes we find ourselves feeling overwhelmed, afraid, desperate, or alone. Maybe your relationships are spiraling or you never feel good enough. Perhaps you are unfulfilled at work or procrastination is sabotaging you. Your distress from anxiety, depression, or grief may have reached a new level and you can’t cope. I’m a therapist, but I’m human too, I’ve been there. Everybody needs a helping hand sometimes. I’m ready to be that person for you! I’ll help you get back on track. With 15+ years of experience and expertise in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), I’m dedicated to helping clients lead healthier, more productive lives.
(438) 700-1683 View (438) 700-1683
Photo of Pasqualina Di Dio, Psychologist in Pierrefonds, QC
Pasqualina Di Dio
Psychologist, Pasqualina Di Dio, PhD
Verified Verified
Pointe-Claire, QC H9R
Waitlist for new clients
The basis of any good psychotherapy relationship is the connection with someone you believe understands you. I strive to provide an empathic, nonjudgmental environment for that connection and trust to develop. I am an active therapist that works in a collaborative, flexible, and transparent way to help you make the changes you so desire and live your life more fully. I have been practicing for 20 years and my speciality is helping people face the challenges that come with a chronic health issue or life-threatening illness, as well as depressive and anxiety disorders, trauma and grief.
The basis of any good psychotherapy relationship is the connection with someone you believe understands you. I strive to provide an empathic, nonjudgmental environment for that connection and trust to develop. I am an active therapist that works in a collaborative, flexible, and transparent way to help you make the changes you so desire and live your life more fully. I have been practicing for 20 years and my speciality is helping people face the challenges that come with a chronic health issue or life-threatening illness, as well as depressive and anxiety disorders, trauma and grief.
(438) 803-5386 View (438) 803-5386
Photo of Alain David Alterescu, Psychologist in Pierrefonds, QC
Alain David Alterescu
Psychologist, MPs, OPQ
Verified Verified
Pointe-Claire, QC H9R
After 20 years of practice, I am driven now more than ever to help individuals and couples achieve meaningful and courageous changes in their lives. Whether what ails you stems from symptoms of OCD, sexual addiction, depression, anxiety, relationship or other life challenges, I will take the time to listen to you with empathy and curiosity but without judgement. Our sessions will seek to enpower you to clearly articulate and implement the tangible changes you wish to effect in your life. I am well versed in cognitive behavioural therapies, mindfulness and brief solution-focused and intercultural therapies.
After 20 years of practice, I am driven now more than ever to help individuals and couples achieve meaningful and courageous changes in their lives. Whether what ails you stems from symptoms of OCD, sexual addiction, depression, anxiety, relationship or other life challenges, I will take the time to listen to you with empathy and curiosity but without judgement. Our sessions will seek to enpower you to clearly articulate and implement the tangible changes you wish to effect in your life. I am well versed in cognitive behavioural therapies, mindfulness and brief solution-focused and intercultural therapies.
(514) 806-6014 View (514) 806-6014
Photo of Joelle Jobin, Psychologist in Pierrefonds, QC
Joelle Jobin
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kirkland, QC H9J
I want you to know you're taking right step. We haven't met yet but seeking out a qualified professional is the key to overcoming how you're feeling. Perhaps you are feeling depressed, isolated, worried, overwhelmed, exhausted or are in chronic pain. Maybe you are experiencing physical changes such as insomnia, fatigue, frequent headaches and back pain. Your behaving in ways that you think are affecting your loved ones. You often feel like a failure and experience guilt. Your thoughts run away with you and often go to dark places. You do not need to live this way anymore. You can feel better.
I want you to know you're taking right step. We haven't met yet but seeking out a qualified professional is the key to overcoming how you're feeling. Perhaps you are feeling depressed, isolated, worried, overwhelmed, exhausted or are in chronic pain. Maybe you are experiencing physical changes such as insomnia, fatigue, frequent headaches and back pain. Your behaving in ways that you think are affecting your loved ones. You often feel like a failure and experience guilt. Your thoughts run away with you and often go to dark places. You do not need to live this way anymore. You can feel better.
(514) 548-3550 View (514) 548-3550
Photo of Tara Reymond, Registered Psychotherapist in Pierrefonds, QC
Tara Reymond
Registered Psychotherapist, MA
Verified Verified
Kirkland, QC H9H
I have worked in the therapeutic field for upward of 15 years. I offer (licensed) psychotherapy to adults and adolescents. My practice is based on acceptance and kindness. I hold a strong belief that there is no room for judgment. I will work with you to create a therapeutic journey that feeds your personal curiosity, builds upon the strengths you already have and teaches you new techniques for coping with stress and sadness. You will learn to identify your goals, what frustrations you face, what changes you wish to make and how to implement those changes in a safe and honest environment.
I have worked in the therapeutic field for upward of 15 years. I offer (licensed) psychotherapy to adults and adolescents. My practice is based on acceptance and kindness. I hold a strong belief that there is no room for judgment. I will work with you to create a therapeutic journey that feeds your personal curiosity, builds upon the strengths you already have and teaches you new techniques for coping with stress and sadness. You will learn to identify your goals, what frustrations you face, what changes you wish to make and how to implement those changes in a safe and honest environment.
(866) 397-2107 View (866) 397-2107

See more therapy options for Pierrefonds

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.