Photo of Steven Hopper, Marriage & Family Therapist in Monrovia, CA
Steven Hopper
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Monrovia, CA 91016
I am a Licensed Marriage and family therapist who is committed to helping my clients navigate the issues arising in their lives through the use of therapy. I have nearly 20 years of experience and in my career, I have treated many types of disorders and about 60% of my career has been working with families and children. I feel comfortable treating most challenges from depression, anxiety, depression, bipolar, to psychotic disorders.
I am a Licensed Marriage and family therapist who is committed to helping my clients navigate the issues arising in their lives through the use of therapy. I have nearly 20 years of experience and in my career, I have treated many types of disorders and about 60% of my career has been working with families and children. I feel comfortable treating most challenges from depression, anxiety, depression, bipolar, to psychotic disorders.
(661) 724-4588 View (661) 724-4588
Photo of Relationships For Better: Individuals + Couples, Marriage & Family Therapist in Monrovia, CA
Relationships For Better: Individuals + Couples
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Monrovia, CA 91016
You want to thrive in your closest relationship: we're here for you. My name is Megan Lundgren, and I am the Director of Relationships For Better, a relationship counseling private practice based in Monrovia, in the San Gabriel Valley. My team of experienced and skilled therapists specializes in helping people navigate relationship hurdles with compassion and care. Relationships are the most important part of life: let's make them better, together.
You want to thrive in your closest relationship: we're here for you. My name is Megan Lundgren, and I am the Director of Relationships For Better, a relationship counseling private practice based in Monrovia, in the San Gabriel Valley. My team of experienced and skilled therapists specializes in helping people navigate relationship hurdles with compassion and care. Relationships are the most important part of life: let's make them better, together.
(626) 587-2299 View (626) 587-2299
Photo of Almog Shanun, Marriage & Family Therapist in Monrovia, CA
Almog Shanun
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Monrovia, CA 91016
I work with the human psyche! WHETHER LIFE IS ON FIRE OR WHEN PAIN IS TOO STRONG TO BEAR OR IF YOU LOOK FOR PERSONAL DISCOVERY. My ideal client comes in in order to learn about how to tune with his or her psyche. Clients, in depth work, learn about the inner and outer relationships and how to connect with the things that lies underneath. I see clients who are looking for discovery of what exists beyond the behavior and their actions and who are willing to dive into learning about the forces that drive them.
I work with the human psyche! WHETHER LIFE IS ON FIRE OR WHEN PAIN IS TOO STRONG TO BEAR OR IF YOU LOOK FOR PERSONAL DISCOVERY. My ideal client comes in in order to learn about how to tune with his or her psyche. Clients, in depth work, learn about the inner and outer relationships and how to connect with the things that lies underneath. I see clients who are looking for discovery of what exists beyond the behavior and their actions and who are willing to dive into learning about the forces that drive them.
(626) 239-1959 View (626) 239-1959
Photo of David C Herzog, Psychologist in Monrovia, CA
David C Herzog
Psychologist, PsyD, MFA
Verified Verified
Monrovia, CA 91016  (Online Only)
I use a relational style that integrates Western psychology, somatic psychotherapy and Eastern psychological approaches in honoring my patients' experience, their strengths as well as their potential for growth. I am also a certified in Vinyasa and Kundalini yoga and incorporate yogic meditation and breath work. I see the therapy as a collaborative relationship in which I invite patients to actively engage in the process of change. I also provide life coaching in helping patients find greater success in the lives both personally and professionally. I offer Telehealth sessions only as my primary residence is currently in Seattle.
I use a relational style that integrates Western psychology, somatic psychotherapy and Eastern psychological approaches in honoring my patients' experience, their strengths as well as their potential for growth. I am also a certified in Vinyasa and Kundalini yoga and incorporate yogic meditation and breath work. I see the therapy as a collaborative relationship in which I invite patients to actively engage in the process of change. I also provide life coaching in helping patients find greater success in the lives both personally and professionally. I offer Telehealth sessions only as my primary residence is currently in Seattle.
(818) 412-9505 View (818) 412-9505
Photo of Jade Rogers, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Monrovia, CA
Jade Rogers
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Monrovia, CA 91016  (Online Only)
Growth and change are possible for everyone, and today proves that you are taking a very brave first step in walking a more positive path to growth, well-being, and healing. I help to guide individuals, adolescents, couples, and families through relationship and mental health challenges and I am passionate in believing that growth and change are possible for everyone. I offer a supportive, interactive, and nonjudgmental approach to therapy in which to help you deal with any and all issues that may be troubling you.
Growth and change are possible for everyone, and today proves that you are taking a very brave first step in walking a more positive path to growth, well-being, and healing. I help to guide individuals, adolescents, couples, and families through relationship and mental health challenges and I am passionate in believing that growth and change are possible for everyone. I offer a supportive, interactive, and nonjudgmental approach to therapy in which to help you deal with any and all issues that may be troubling you.
(323) 894-9731 View (323) 894-9731
Photo of Tammy Kealey Neuropsychologist, Psychologist in Monrovia, CA
Tammy Kealey Neuropsychologist
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Monrovia, CA 91016
Have you noticed a change in memory or find it harder to focus or multitask? Has there been a change in mood? A variety of conditions impact our thinking and influence how we function at home, school, and work. Fortunately, neuropsychological assessments can help identify what neurological challenges might be impacting your day-to-day. I'm a clinical neuropsychologist and I offer comprehensive evaluations for individuals with neurological and psychiatric disorders, including (but not limited to) ADHD, stroke, traumatic head injury, dementia, depression, anxiety, and trauma.
Have you noticed a change in memory or find it harder to focus or multitask? Has there been a change in mood? A variety of conditions impact our thinking and influence how we function at home, school, and work. Fortunately, neuropsychological assessments can help identify what neurological challenges might be impacting your day-to-day. I'm a clinical neuropsychologist and I offer comprehensive evaluations for individuals with neurological and psychiatric disorders, including (but not limited to) ADHD, stroke, traumatic head injury, dementia, depression, anxiety, and trauma.
(626) 779-9082 View (626) 779-9082

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Maria Barelli, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Monrovia, CA
Maria Barelli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91107  (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 Lanikai Clouse, Psychologist in Monrovia, CA
Lanikai Clouse
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91107
"I work with patients that are dealing with a range of issues including depression, anxiety, varying addictions, co-dependency, sexuality, gender identity, trauma, bipolar, stage of life/adjustment issues and relationship challenges.
"With almost 20 years clinical experience, I specialize in providing treatment tailored for individuals and couples who recognize that there is something interfering with their ability to function or enjoy their daily life. Utilizing a variety of techniques, I help my patients identify their immediate needs and their long-term goals. I work with both the first-time therapy patient as well as with those that have experience in the therapeutic process. I believe that we desire purpose and connection. I assist in exploring life's choices to improve clarity, relationships and an overall state of well-being."
"I work with patients that are dealing with a range of issues including depression, anxiety, varying addictions, co-dependency, sexuality, gender identity, trauma, bipolar, stage of life/adjustment issues and relationship challenges.
"With almost 20 years clinical experience, I specialize in providing treatment tailored for individuals and couples who recognize that there is something interfering with their ability to function or enjoy their daily life. Utilizing a variety of techniques, I help my patients identify their immediate needs and their long-term goals. I work with both the first-time therapy patient as well as with those that have experience in the therapeutic process. I believe that we desire purpose and connection. I assist in exploring life's choices to improve clarity, relationships and an overall state of well-being."
(626) 344-9985 View (626) 344-9985
Photo of Kelly Albrecht, Pre-Licensed Professional in Monrovia, CA
Kelly Albrecht
Pre-Licensed Professional, ASW
Verified Verified
West Covina, CA 91791
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.
(714) 710-1523 View (714) 710-1523
Photo of Wei-Chin Hwang, Psychologist in Monrovia, CA
Wei-Chin Hwang
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91101
Hwang's clients struggle with issues such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, family conflict, couples problems, self-esteem issues, personal growth, identity development, adjustment difficulties, and traumatic experiences.
Dr. Wei-Chin Hwang is a licensed clinical psychologist and professor of clinical psychology. He has two practice locations, one in Pasadena and one in Claremont, California. In his practice, he provides psychotherapy to adults, adolescents, children, couples, and families. Dr. Hwang has over 30 years of education, training, and experience in the field of psychology. He received his Ph.D. in clinical psychology from UCLA (ranked #1 in clinical psychology) and completed a postdoctoral fellowship at Harbor UCLA Medical Center. He is a professor at Claremont McKenna College (ranked #6 among liberal arts colleges in the U.S.).
Hwang's clients struggle with issues such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, family conflict, couples problems, self-esteem issues, personal growth, identity development, adjustment difficulties, and traumatic experiences.
Dr. Wei-Chin Hwang is a licensed clinical psychologist and professor of clinical psychology. He has two practice locations, one in Pasadena and one in Claremont, California. In his practice, he provides psychotherapy to adults, adolescents, children, couples, and families. Dr. Hwang has over 30 years of education, training, and experience in the field of psychology. He received his Ph.D. in clinical psychology from UCLA (ranked #1 in clinical psychology) and completed a postdoctoral fellowship at Harbor UCLA Medical Center. He is a professor at Claremont McKenna College (ranked #6 among liberal arts colleges in the U.S.).
(310) 331-8709 View (310) 331-8709
Photo of Mary Tobon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Monrovia, CA
Mary Tobon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91106
depression, anxiety, bipolar), personality disorders, & interpersonal & social challenges.
What is it that has brought you to seek out therapy? If it is because you are looking for someone to provide a safe validating space to feel heard, to learn to take control of your emotions, to change problematic behaviors, learn effective coping mechanisms, process grief, move on from what no longer serves you, solve a problem, or even figure out what the problem is, I can help. Whatever symptoms you are experiencing, they are there to communicate something to you. I can help identify what that is, and what to do with that information.
depression, anxiety, bipolar), personality disorders, & interpersonal & social challenges.
What is it that has brought you to seek out therapy? If it is because you are looking for someone to provide a safe validating space to feel heard, to learn to take control of your emotions, to change problematic behaviors, learn effective coping mechanisms, process grief, move on from what no longer serves you, solve a problem, or even figure out what the problem is, I can help. Whatever symptoms you are experiencing, they are there to communicate something to you. I can help identify what that is, and what to do with that information.
(323) 417-6812 View (323) 417-6812
Photo of Linda W Hamilton, Marriage & Family Therapist in Monrovia, CA
Linda W Hamilton
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Covina, CA 91723  (Online Only)
I have experience, working with CULTURALLY DIVERSE individuals, couples, children and families; clients diagnosed with variety of presenting problems including marital issues, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, , Generalized Anxiety Disorder and Post-traumatic Stress Disorder.
My philosophy is that every client deserves personalized care, respect, and responsiveness. This attitude helps clients feel safe enough to consider new ways of approaching life's challenges.
I have experience, working with CULTURALLY DIVERSE individuals, couples, children and families; clients diagnosed with variety of presenting problems including marital issues, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, , Generalized Anxiety Disorder and Post-traumatic Stress Disorder.
My philosophy is that every client deserves personalized care, respect, and responsiveness. This attitude helps clients feel safe enough to consider new ways of approaching life's challenges.
(626) 498-8843 View (626) 498-8843
Photo of Elsa Busch, Psychologist in Monrovia, CA
Elsa Busch
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Marino, CA 91108
, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, Social Anxiety Disorder, Depression, Bipolar Disorder and etc.
I provide individual, group, and family sessions for children, adolescents, and adults. I specialize in Cognitive Behavior Therapy; however, also incorporate Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Schema Therapy and Mindfulness to further promote well being and help individuals reach their personal treatment goals.
, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, Social Anxiety Disorder, Depression, Bipolar Disorder and etc.
I provide individual, group, and family sessions for children, adolescents, and adults. I specialize in Cognitive Behavior Therapy; however, also incorporate Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Schema Therapy and Mindfulness to further promote well being and help individuals reach their personal treatment goals.
(626) 722-5006 View (626) 722-5006
Photo of Ying Kam, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Monrovia, CA
Ying Kam
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Alhambra, CA 91801
With over 10 years' experience, I have worked with diverse clients from children to elderly, experiencing a wide range of issues, including depression, anxiety, bipolar, schizophrenia, ADHD, drugs and alcohol additions, relationship issues, and a broad spectrum of mental illness.
I have worked across various setting, including outpatient clinic, inpatient hospital, community, in-home, and within school settings. According to your needs, we may use different interventions, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), motivational interviewing technique (MIT), solution-focused therapy models to provide empathetic supportive and yet directive, counseling style to empower you to explore and resolve ambivalence and enhance motivation for positive change in your life.
With over 10 years' experience, I have worked with diverse clients from children to elderly, experiencing a wide range of issues, including depression, anxiety, bipolar, schizophrenia, ADHD, drugs and alcohol additions, relationship issues, and a broad spectrum of mental illness.
I have worked across various setting, including outpatient clinic, inpatient hospital, community, in-home, and within school settings. According to your needs, we may use different interventions, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), motivational interviewing technique (MIT), solution-focused therapy models to provide empathetic supportive and yet directive, counseling style to empower you to explore and resolve ambivalence and enhance motivation for positive change in your life.
(442) 309-4432 View (442) 309-4432
Photo of Deborah Johnson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Monrovia, CA
Deborah Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91104
Greetings, my name is Deborah Johnson, Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I work with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adolescents, adults, and couples. My areas of expertise are working with depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, generalized anxiety, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, trauma-informed and focused, and co-occurring disorders. My typical client population is comprised of mood disorders, including Major Depressive Disorder and Bipolar Disorder, a spectrum of Anxiety Disorders, including Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, and Panic Disorder.
Greetings, my name is Deborah Johnson, Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I work with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adolescents, adults, and couples. My areas of expertise are working with depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, generalized anxiety, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, trauma-informed and focused, and co-occurring disorders. My typical client population is comprised of mood disorders, including Major Depressive Disorder and Bipolar Disorder, a spectrum of Anxiety Disorders, including Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, and Panic Disorder.
(408) 715-1383 View (408) 715-1383
Photo of Isabella (Bella) Shirinyan, Marriage & Family Therapist in Monrovia, CA
Isabella (Bella) Shirinyan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91101
Navigating personal struggles often leaves us feeling alone, anxious, and disconnected. This experience can become even more intense when dealing with issues such as eating disorders, trauma, depression, anxiety, life transitions, bipolar disorder, and co-occurring conditions. I specialize in helping individuals navigate these challenges. Collaborating with psychiatrists, doctors, and dietitians, we form a holistic support team, going beyond traditional methods for comprehensive healing. We aim to equip you with tools for emotional, physical, and mental wellness, enabling lasting growth and resilience.
Navigating personal struggles often leaves us feeling alone, anxious, and disconnected. This experience can become even more intense when dealing with issues such as eating disorders, trauma, depression, anxiety, life transitions, bipolar disorder, and co-occurring conditions. I specialize in helping individuals navigate these challenges. Collaborating with psychiatrists, doctors, and dietitians, we form a holistic support team, going beyond traditional methods for comprehensive healing. We aim to equip you with tools for emotional, physical, and mental wellness, enabling lasting growth and resilience.
(818) 918-2237 View (818) 918-2237
Photo of Irenda Rios Immigration Evaluation Evaluaciones Inmigracion, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Monrovia, CA
Irenda Rios Immigration Evaluation Evaluaciones Inmigracion
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
West Covina, CA 91790
My specialty includes working with disorders such as Bipolar spectrum, schizophrenia, anxiety, phobias, borderline personality, and depression.
Mental health, addiction and traumas can be treated with the appropriate psychotherapy. With thirteen years of experience in the field, I have had the opportunity to work with clients who have different problems, needs and objectives. People of all ages, ethnicities and cultures; therefore, giving me the opportunity to develop a deeper understanding on how to detect and treat various conditions. Psychotherapy helps people to go through a recovery process without problems.
My specialty includes working with disorders such as Bipolar spectrum, schizophrenia, anxiety, phobias, borderline personality, and depression.
Mental health, addiction and traumas can be treated with the appropriate psychotherapy. With thirteen years of experience in the field, I have had the opportunity to work with clients who have different problems, needs and objectives. People of all ages, ethnicities and cultures; therefore, giving me the opportunity to develop a deeper understanding on how to detect and treat various conditions. Psychotherapy helps people to go through a recovery process without problems.
(619) 304-3617 View (619) 304-3617
Photo of Chantal Daley, Marriage & Family Therapist in Monrovia, CA
Chantal Daley
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91101
Do you find yourself having a difficult time coping with anxiety, depression, and trauma? Do you have a hard time communicating and setting boundaries with others? Life is full of obstacles and hardships that may be difficult to overcome without the right tools, resources, and, guidance leading to the manifestation of these symptoms. I specialize in working with adults, couples, and adolescents using a Psychodynamic approach to explore unconscious thoughts and behaviors. In doing this, we are able to collaboratively recognize old ineffective patterns and process unresolved feelings and trauma.
Do you find yourself having a difficult time coping with anxiety, depression, and trauma? Do you have a hard time communicating and setting boundaries with others? Life is full of obstacles and hardships that may be difficult to overcome without the right tools, resources, and, guidance leading to the manifestation of these symptoms. I specialize in working with adults, couples, and adolescents using a Psychodynamic approach to explore unconscious thoughts and behaviors. In doing this, we are able to collaboratively recognize old ineffective patterns and process unresolved feelings and trauma.
(626) 317-6210 View (626) 317-6210
Photo of Dr. Rehana Peiris, Registered Psychological Associate in Monrovia, CA
Dr. Rehana Peiris
Registered Psychological Associate, MA, MFT, PsyD
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91101
I believe that their is healing and growth that comes from fostering a space for other’s to share their life story. In facilitating this process, I will help you process life's events, discover your strengths and areas to improve, and support you in crossing the bridge to your next level. While I am qualified to work with a range of issues, I especially enjoy working with parents, children, youth and couples by supporting their development, facilitating their personal autonomy, and helping them navigate through challenging times.
I believe that their is healing and growth that comes from fostering a space for other’s to share their life story. In facilitating this process, I will help you process life's events, discover your strengths and areas to improve, and support you in crossing the bridge to your next level. While I am qualified to work with a range of issues, I especially enjoy working with parents, children, youth and couples by supporting their development, facilitating their personal autonomy, and helping them navigate through challenging times.
(909) 280-7860 View (909) 280-7860
Photo of Stephanie Banning, Marriage & Family Therapist in Monrovia, CA
Stephanie Banning
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Altadena, CA 91001
My name is Stephanie Banning, and I am a licensed LMFT. I have spent the last 15y+ working with individuals struggling with addiction/recovery in a variety of capacities, including substance abuse and eating disorders. Due to the nature of my specialties, I have developed expertise in working with mood disorders and OCD. I believe in meeting an individual where they are at, and that trauma looks differently to everyone because you cannot see someone's mental health.
My name is Stephanie Banning, and I am a licensed LMFT. I have spent the last 15y+ working with individuals struggling with addiction/recovery in a variety of capacities, including substance abuse and eating disorders. Due to the nature of my specialties, I have developed expertise in working with mood disorders and OCD. I believe in meeting an individual where they are at, and that trauma looks differently to everyone because you cannot see someone's mental health.
(442) 249-8805 View (442) 249-8805
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.