Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Los Angeles, CA

Photo of Lana Cohen, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Los Angeles, CA
Lana Cohen
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90028
You're feeling depressed, isolated, frustrated and angry with the state of the world. And yet you're still expected to keep up with overwhelming pressures and demands of day to day life. It can feel impossible. All this stress can cause us to lose sight of what’s important and end up stuck in the same unhelpful patterns in our work, our relationships, and our own thoughts. But it doesn't have to be this way. What if you could get back in touch with your hopes, dreams, and desires? I work with clients struggling with bipolar disorder or depression, job and career stress, loneliness, and relationship conflicts.
You're feeling depressed, isolated, frustrated and angry with the state of the world. And yet you're still expected to keep up with overwhelming pressures and demands of day to day life. It can feel impossible. All this stress can cause us to lose sight of what’s important and end up stuck in the same unhelpful patterns in our work, our relationships, and our own thoughts. But it doesn't have to be this way. What if you could get back in touch with your hopes, dreams, and desires? I work with clients struggling with bipolar disorder or depression, job and career stress, loneliness, and relationship conflicts.
(747) 269-6061 View (747) 269-6061
Photo of Christopher Joel Tromba, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Christopher Joel Tromba
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90028
I specialize in working with adolescents and adults struggling with Bipolar, Depression, Relationship difficulties, and adjusting to the changes life brings.
You deserve a safe environment where you feel free to express yourself and seek to understand what makes you, you. I am excited about the power of the therapeutic process, and believe that working together we may achieve the change you seek.
I specialize in working with adolescents and adults struggling with Bipolar, Depression, Relationship difficulties, and adjusting to the changes life brings.
You deserve a safe environment where you feel free to express yourself and seek to understand what makes you, you. I am excited about the power of the therapeutic process, and believe that working together we may achieve the change you seek.
(805) 870-8901 View (805) 870-8901
Photo of Alyson DiRocco Fisher, Psychologist in Los Angeles, CA
Alyson DiRocco Fisher
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90064
I specialize in treating bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, depression, and anxiety.
Connecting with the right therapist can be challenging. As a clinician, I strive to empower clients to make meaningful changes, while also helping them hold self-compassion in the process. I ground my work in evidence-based therapies, and use an in-depth case conceptualization to understand how problems are getting in the way of the life my clients want to lead.
I specialize in treating bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, depression, and anxiety.
Connecting with the right therapist can be challenging. As a clinician, I strive to empower clients to make meaningful changes, while also helping them hold self-compassion in the process. I ground my work in evidence-based therapies, and use an in-depth case conceptualization to understand how problems are getting in the way of the life my clients want to lead.
(310) 564-0785 View (310) 564-0785
Photo of Adella Jaeger, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Adella Jaeger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90064
 My areas of expertise include depression and anxiety, bipolar, child development, parenting, teens and maternal health.
Are you feeling "stuck," overwhelmed, or find yourself worrying about things beyond your control? You are looking for the right therapist, someone who will not only "get you," but will actually help you. I am not a stereotypical "so how does that make you feel" therapist. Yes, I am very empathetic, down to earth, caring, and intuitive.. And I am also practical. As a therapist with over a decade of experience, I am actively involved, goal oriented, and realistic. I am skilled at providing both traditional and cutting-edge therapies, using invaluable tools that can open the doors for the insight and clarity that you are searching for.
 My areas of expertise include depression and anxiety, bipolar, child development, parenting, teens and maternal health.
Are you feeling "stuck," overwhelmed, or find yourself worrying about things beyond your control? You are looking for the right therapist, someone who will not only "get you," but will actually help you. I am not a stereotypical "so how does that make you feel" therapist. Yes, I am very empathetic, down to earth, caring, and intuitive.. And I am also practical. As a therapist with over a decade of experience, I am actively involved, goal oriented, and realistic. I am skilled at providing both traditional and cutting-edge therapies, using invaluable tools that can open the doors for the insight and clarity that you are searching for.
(702) 710-0826 View (702) 710-0826
Photo of Marcos Andrade, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Los Angeles, CA
Marcos Andrade
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90064
I have worked in community mental health, where I've supported clients grappling with bipolar disorder, addiction, substance abuse, and chronic mental health issues.
What's holding you back from starting your journey towards a brighter, more fulfilling life? I'm all about embracing authenticity and diving into your experiences and future aspirations. My approach is sincere and down-to-earth, bringing warmth, genuineness, and inclusivity into our therapy sessions together. I believe that therapy is a team effort where your needs and goals are what matter most. Clients like you can feel comfortable knowing I'm here to help you with compassion, creating a space where you can truly be yourself. I work with children, teens, adults, couples, and families. ¡Hablo español!
I have worked in community mental health, where I've supported clients grappling with bipolar disorder, addiction, substance abuse, and chronic mental health issues.
What's holding you back from starting your journey towards a brighter, more fulfilling life? I'm all about embracing authenticity and diving into your experiences and future aspirations. My approach is sincere and down-to-earth, bringing warmth, genuineness, and inclusivity into our therapy sessions together. I believe that therapy is a team effort where your needs and goals are what matter most. Clients like you can feel comfortable knowing I'm here to help you with compassion, creating a space where you can truly be yourself. I work with children, teens, adults, couples, and families. ¡Hablo español!
(310) 907-9456 View (310) 907-9456
Photo of Shobha George, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Shobha George
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90024  (Online Only)
I have experience working with all demographics but mostly with adults that struggle with a variety of issues, including (but not limited to) depression, anxiety, bipolar and psychotic disorders, stress management, family conflicts, relationship, behavioral and other mental health problems. My approach to you as a client is simple, meet you where you are. I use an eclectic theoretical approach that fits your needs, and one that makes you feel the most comfortable.
I have experience working with all demographics but mostly with adults that struggle with a variety of issues, including (but not limited to) depression, anxiety, bipolar and psychotic disorders, stress management, family conflicts, relationship, behavioral and other mental health problems. My approach to you as a client is simple, meet you where you are. I use an eclectic theoretical approach that fits your needs, and one that makes you feel the most comfortable.
(408) 516-4655 View (408) 516-4655
Photo of Katja D Pohl, Psychologist in Los Angeles, CA
Katja D Pohl
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90049
My expertise include trauma, chronic illness/pain, bipolar disorder, addiction, and relationship problems.
Life can be hard and at times we need help. Through mutual collaboration we will get to know you, where you get stuck, your relationships, and how to create lasting and meaningful change in your life. Positive change through therapy can provide you with more stability, greater self-confidence, more compassion for yourself and others, increased satisfaction with your life, improved relationships, a feeling of satisfaction and ease about daily life, and the ability to take risks and advance professionally.
My expertise include trauma, chronic illness/pain, bipolar disorder, addiction, and relationship problems.
Life can be hard and at times we need help. Through mutual collaboration we will get to know you, where you get stuck, your relationships, and how to create lasting and meaningful change in your life. Positive change through therapy can provide you with more stability, greater self-confidence, more compassion for yourself and others, increased satisfaction with your life, improved relationships, a feeling of satisfaction and ease about daily life, and the ability to take risks and advance professionally.
(424) 230-8665 View (424) 230-8665
Photo of Bram Conley, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Bram Conley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90025  (Online Only)
My experience with treating major psychiatric disorders and substance abuse allows me to help clients with bipolar disorder, major depression, schizophrenia, and anxiety disorders such as OCD, panic disorder and generalized anxiety. In addition to providing treatment for these types of problems, I have experience working with the families of adults and adolescents who are experiencing serious psychiatric problems.
My experience with treating major psychiatric disorders and substance abuse allows me to help clients with bipolar disorder, major depression, schizophrenia, and anxiety disorders such as OCD, panic disorder and generalized anxiety. In addition to providing treatment for these types of problems, I have experience working with the families of adults and adolescents who are experiencing serious psychiatric problems.
(424) 343-1715 View (424) 343-1715
Photo of Mary Naa Adjeley Sowah-Quaye, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Mary Naa Adjeley Sowah-Quaye
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90017  (Online Only)
Hello. My name is Mary Sowah-Quaye. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker providing care to clients struggling with life transitions, interpersonal challenges, depression, anxiety, bipolar family, and relationship issues. I am also specialize in working with people of color and LGBTQIA+ community
Hello. My name is Mary Sowah-Quaye. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker providing care to clients struggling with life transitions, interpersonal challenges, depression, anxiety, bipolar family, and relationship issues. I am also specialize in working with people of color and LGBTQIA+ community
(661) 718-4883 View (661) 718-4883
Photo of Mason Nutter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Mason Nutter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90057
My name is Mason Nutter, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I approach therapy in a very person-centered and collaborative way. I am particularly focused on anxiety, depression, mood disorders, substance use, and relapse prevention. I have worked in the mental health field for many years. I have treated patients with depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, anxiety disorders, and substance abuse disorders. I have primarily worked with adult individuals.
My name is Mason Nutter, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I approach therapy in a very person-centered and collaborative way. I am particularly focused on anxiety, depression, mood disorders, substance use, and relapse prevention. I have worked in the mental health field for many years. I have treated patients with depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, anxiety disorders, and substance abuse disorders. I have primarily worked with adult individuals.
(510) 518-3935 View (510) 518-3935
Photo of Maria Barelli, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Maria Barelli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90041  (Online Only)
Are you struggling at work? Maybe you're having difficulties in your relationships. Or do you want to feel more confident about yourself? During difficult times, I will help you find new ways of managing your life by teaching you coping skills. Do you beat yourself up? Therapy will teach you how to be kind to yourself. I like to do "what works". I pull from different approaches because every client is unique. My style of relating is warm and empathetic. I currently work with individuals, couples, teens, and families with issues including: Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, and Substance abuse.
Are you struggling at work? Maybe you're having difficulties in your relationships. Or do you want to feel more confident about yourself? During difficult times, I will help you find new ways of managing your life by teaching you coping skills. Do you beat yourself up? Therapy will teach you how to be kind to yourself. I like to do "what works". I pull from different approaches because every client is unique. My style of relating is warm and empathetic. I currently work with individuals, couples, teens, and families with issues including: Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, and Substance abuse.
(626) 236-4971 View (626) 236-4971
Photo of Dr. Alan E Clark, Psychologist in Los Angeles, CA
Dr. Alan E Clark
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90064  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with over 35 years of private practice experience. I trained within APA-accredited doctoral programs and internship programs. I am licensed to practice psychology in both California and Colorado. I specialize in treating couples and individual adults presenting with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, grief, substance abuse, and relational conflict and dissatisfaction. I am trained in psycho-dynamic psychotherapy, but I also apply cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness, and interpersonal psychotherapy techniques to address the best methods for each individual and his or her issues and needs.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with over 35 years of private practice experience. I trained within APA-accredited doctoral programs and internship programs. I am licensed to practice psychology in both California and Colorado. I specialize in treating couples and individual adults presenting with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, grief, substance abuse, and relational conflict and dissatisfaction. I am trained in psycho-dynamic psychotherapy, but I also apply cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness, and interpersonal psychotherapy techniques to address the best methods for each individual and his or her issues and needs.
(310) 660-7462 View (310) 660-7462
Photo of Chris Marrero, Psychologist in Los Angeles, CA
Chris Marrero
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025
Hello. Thanks for visiting my page. I am the founder of Marrero Psychology, Santa Monica's premier holistic mental healthcare clinic specializing in addressing the needs of professionals and students. My areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder. My clients experience relief from symptoms in addition to higher self-esteem, better sleep, stronger relationships, greater focus, and more satisfaction at work or school. I am passionate about helping people reach their goals and bring greater happiness and mental health into their lives.
Hello. Thanks for visiting my page. I am the founder of Marrero Psychology, Santa Monica's premier holistic mental healthcare clinic specializing in addressing the needs of professionals and students. My areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder. My clients experience relief from symptoms in addition to higher self-esteem, better sleep, stronger relationships, greater focus, and more satisfaction at work or school. I am passionate about helping people reach their goals and bring greater happiness and mental health into their lives.
(424) 375-6014 View (424) 375-6014
Photo of Leslie Margolis, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Leslie Margolis
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90069
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist as well as a Psychoanalytic candidate. In my work I aim to foster a safe, non-judgmental atmosphere in which individuals can develop insight and address non-productive patterns of behavior. I am experienced in treating a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder. I have successfully worked with individuals who were subjected to parental narcissism, neglect, abuse, and other difficult and painful circumstances. I am also experienced in working with newly single individuals who are struggling to redefine their lives.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist as well as a Psychoanalytic candidate. In my work I aim to foster a safe, non-judgmental atmosphere in which individuals can develop insight and address non-productive patterns of behavior. I am experienced in treating a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder. I have successfully worked with individuals who were subjected to parental narcissism, neglect, abuse, and other difficult and painful circumstances. I am also experienced in working with newly single individuals who are struggling to redefine their lives.
(424) 295-7352 View (424) 295-7352
Photo of Nicole Pope, Associate Clinical Social Worker in Los Angeles, CA
Nicole Pope
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90010  (Online Only)
Congratulations on taking the courageous step of seeking treatment for your mental health! I understand that searching for a therapist can sometimes add to the stress of seeking mental health care! I am an associate clinical social worker with nearly 10 years of experience in the mental health field. Initially, my focus was exclusively on adolescents aged 13-17 grappling with challenges such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, suicidal thoughts, self-harm, eating disorders, PTSD, trauma, substance abuse, and psychosis. As I progressed practicing, I transitioned to working with adults as well as teens.
Congratulations on taking the courageous step of seeking treatment for your mental health! I understand that searching for a therapist can sometimes add to the stress of seeking mental health care! I am an associate clinical social worker with nearly 10 years of experience in the mental health field. Initially, my focus was exclusively on adolescents aged 13-17 grappling with challenges such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, suicidal thoughts, self-harm, eating disorders, PTSD, trauma, substance abuse, and psychosis. As I progressed practicing, I transitioned to working with adults as well as teens.
(310) 564-7369 View (310) 564-7369
Photo of Linda Fujino, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Linda Fujino
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90025  (Online Only)
Whether you are looking to end an addiction, process complex trauma and shame, or overcome your self-limiting beliefs I am here to help. My extensive experience in the field, as well as my own personal work has led me to the understanding that there is a way out. I treat those with depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, ADHD, grief/loss, children of addict/alcoholics, borderline personality, betrayal trauma, sex/porn addiction, and other issues. Through the therapeutic process I can help you to better understand what you have been through and how to overcome your current struggles to live your fullest, best life.
Whether you are looking to end an addiction, process complex trauma and shame, or overcome your self-limiting beliefs I am here to help. My extensive experience in the field, as well as my own personal work has led me to the understanding that there is a way out. I treat those with depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, ADHD, grief/loss, children of addict/alcoholics, borderline personality, betrayal trauma, sex/porn addiction, and other issues. Through the therapeutic process I can help you to better understand what you have been through and how to overcome your current struggles to live your fullest, best life.
(310) 928-2382 View (310) 928-2382
Photo of Kelly Albrecht, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Kelly Albrecht
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, ASW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025
With expertise in substance use disorder, ADHD, bipolar and personality disorders, my holistic approach to therapy prioritizes safety and healing, with trauma-informed care.
Are you struggling to process depression, anxiety, relationship/family issues, and trauma? These emotional ruptures can cause major disruptions in our lives. The work to process these types of life events is multifaceted, and I can help you identify your feelings and potential relational patterns, build tolerance and acceptance around challenging ones, and set meaningful goals. In order to do so, I utilize various therapeutic approaches consisting of ACT, CBT, and Problem-Solving Therapy, and somatic interventions.
With expertise in substance use disorder, ADHD, bipolar and personality disorders, my holistic approach to therapy prioritizes safety and healing, with trauma-informed care.
Are you struggling to process depression, anxiety, relationship/family issues, and trauma? These emotional ruptures can cause major disruptions in our lives. The work to process these types of life events is multifaceted, and I can help you identify your feelings and potential relational patterns, build tolerance and acceptance around challenging ones, and set meaningful goals. In order to do so, I utilize various therapeutic approaches consisting of ACT, CBT, and Problem-Solving Therapy, and somatic interventions.
(424) 688-3262 View (424) 688-3262
Photo of Dora Nayely Valencia, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Dora Nayely Valencia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90066  (Online Only)
I have experience working with clients with depression, anxiety, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, men's issues, family/relationship conflict/violence, reduced self-esteem, cultural difficulties and LGBTQIA+ issues.
Currently Accepting New Clients: Welcome. It takes great courage to take the first step in seeking support for past or current experiences. As a therapist, I use a collaborative approach to explore areas of stress and concern to establish goals towards personal growth and change. In doing so, my goal is to provide a safe environment that is free of judgement when embarking on your journey of healing and self-improvement.
I have experience working with clients with depression, anxiety, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, men's issues, family/relationship conflict/violence, reduced self-esteem, cultural difficulties and LGBTQIA+ issues.
Currently Accepting New Clients: Welcome. It takes great courage to take the first step in seeking support for past or current experiences. As a therapist, I use a collaborative approach to explore areas of stress and concern to establish goals towards personal growth and change. In doing so, my goal is to provide a safe environment that is free of judgement when embarking on your journey of healing and self-improvement.
(442) 253-1168 View (442) 253-1168
Photo of Seon Park, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Seon Park
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90048  (Online Only)
Seon Park is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California who has been practicing since 1998. She graduated from Pepperdine University with a Master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy and Biola University with a Bachelor's degree. Seon has worked with many agencies over the past several decades. Individual sessions with Seon are available for adults and older adults. Her areas of expertise include ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders, trauma, self-esteem issues, anger management, and parenting skills.
Seon Park is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California who has been practicing since 1998. She graduated from Pepperdine University with a Master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy and Biola University with a Bachelor's degree. Seon has worked with many agencies over the past several decades. Individual sessions with Seon are available for adults and older adults. Her areas of expertise include ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders, trauma, self-esteem issues, anger management, and parenting skills.
(323) 612-1921 View (323) 612-1921
Photo of Jayson L. Mystkowski, Psychologist in Los Angeles, CA
Jayson L. Mystkowski
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90036
Dr. Mystkowski (he/his/him) practices within a cognitive-behavioral framework, including mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, compassion-focused therapy, and acceptance and commitment therapy, specializing in treating adults with anxiety and mood disorders and relational problems and phase of life transitions. In addition, he has training in the psychological treatment of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), insomnia, and bipolar disorder, as well as an extensive background working with LGBTQ+ clients. Dr. Mystkowski is Board Certified in Behavioral & Cognitive Psychology (ABPP), and is a certified CBT therapist (A-CBT).
Dr. Mystkowski (he/his/him) practices within a cognitive-behavioral framework, including mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, compassion-focused therapy, and acceptance and commitment therapy, specializing in treating adults with anxiety and mood disorders and relational problems and phase of life transitions. In addition, he has training in the psychological treatment of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), insomnia, and bipolar disorder, as well as an extensive background working with LGBTQ+ clients. Dr. Mystkowski is Board Certified in Behavioral & Cognitive Psychology (ABPP), and is a certified CBT therapist (A-CBT).
(310) 579-9335 View (310) 579-9335

Bipolar Disorder Therapists

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.