Photo of Lizeth V Ma, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Lizeth V Ma
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92120
I am a passionate clinical therapist who loves working with children, women, couples and families going through challenging times. Are you and your your child having trouble communicating? Are you and your spouse having trouble communicating? Do you see them going through a hard time, long to help but don't know how? Do you suffer from Bipolar Disorder? I am here for you. Do you feel undone by anxiety or depression and don't know how to "shake it off"? Please call today, My number one goal is to help in the most comfortable and holistic approach possible. It's OK, not to be OK. Together we can get there, one step at a time.
I am a passionate clinical therapist who loves working with children, women, couples and families going through challenging times. Are you and your your child having trouble communicating? Are you and your spouse having trouble communicating? Do you see them going through a hard time, long to help but don't know how? Do you suffer from Bipolar Disorder? I am here for you. Do you feel undone by anxiety or depression and don't know how to "shake it off"? Please call today, My number one goal is to help in the most comfortable and holistic approach possible. It's OK, not to be OK. Together we can get there, one step at a time.
(858) 433-4356 View (858) 433-4356
Photo of Brittany Phillips Hunt, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in San Diego, CA
Brittany Phillips Hunt
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108  (Online Only)
From symptoms of Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, self-worth, relational issues, family conflict, ADHD, Bipolar, grief and more, Brittany is happy to walk with clients through their journey to a better life.
Currently open for couples and individuals via telehealth
From symptoms of Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, self-worth, relational issues, family conflict, ADHD, Bipolar, grief and more, Brittany is happy to walk with clients through their journey to a better life.
Currently open for couples and individuals via telehealth
(619) 345-5992 View (619) 345-5992
Photo of Diane F Gaston, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Diego, CA
Diane F Gaston
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92131
For over 20 years I worked with clients with schizophrenia, bipolar and other psychiatric disorders.
What motivates me to be a therapist is my desire to help clients maximize their potential for personal growth. I work with individuals, families and couples to help them in their journey of discovering their innate abilities of solving their own problems. In this way I will direct them in learning what obstacles they create for themselves and how to use their abilities to evoke change. My preference is in-person, but am willing to do Telehealth, as needed, after initial in-person assessment, in-person offers valuable energy exchange necessary for the human connection between therapist and client. I'm fully vaccinated.
For over 20 years I worked with clients with schizophrenia, bipolar and other psychiatric disorders.
What motivates me to be a therapist is my desire to help clients maximize their potential for personal growth. I work with individuals, families and couples to help them in their journey of discovering their innate abilities of solving their own problems. In this way I will direct them in learning what obstacles they create for themselves and how to use their abilities to evoke change. My preference is in-person, but am willing to do Telehealth, as needed, after initial in-person assessment, in-person offers valuable energy exchange necessary for the human connection between therapist and client. I'm fully vaccinated.
(858) 762-9387 View (858) 762-9387
Photo of Reina Remy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Diego, CA
Reina Remy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92123
Waitlist for new clients
I work collaboratively and creatively to help you/your child or teen identify the root causes underlying the current struggles and increase awareness of solutions in your lives. I use play/art techniques to explore thoughts and feelings, emphasize therapeutic experiments, and process traumas to help you/your child feel better and improve the quality of your lives. I have more than 20 years experience helping children, teens, adults, and parents with trauma, grief, anxiety, family conflicts, bipolar, ADHD, and depression, among other issues. I also love working with LGBTQ community, military families, twins, and parenting struggles.
I work collaboratively and creatively to help you/your child or teen identify the root causes underlying the current struggles and increase awareness of solutions in your lives. I use play/art techniques to explore thoughts and feelings, emphasize therapeutic experiments, and process traumas to help you/your child feel better and improve the quality of your lives. I have more than 20 years experience helping children, teens, adults, and parents with trauma, grief, anxiety, family conflicts, bipolar, ADHD, and depression, among other issues. I also love working with LGBTQ community, military families, twins, and parenting struggles.
(858) 215-1978 View (858) 215-1978
Photo of Sonia Estrada, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Sonia Estrada
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92122
I treat clients with issues of trauma and abuse, attachment, domestic violence, PTSD, anxiety, depression, bipolar and schizophrenia, personality disorders, relationships, family conflicts, stress, and parent-child conflict by using different approaches and treatment modalities.
Hi my is Sonia Estrada. I am a licensed bilingual (Spanish/English) marriage and family therapist with both professional training and life experiences. I have experience working with a variety of age groups (children, adolescents, adults, elderly). I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion and my goal is to help you achieve a level of functionality in important domains (relational, social, vocational, occupational) to improve your quality of life.
I treat clients with issues of trauma and abuse, attachment, domestic violence, PTSD, anxiety, depression, bipolar and schizophrenia, personality disorders, relationships, family conflicts, stress, and parent-child conflict by using different approaches and treatment modalities.
Hi my is Sonia Estrada. I am a licensed bilingual (Spanish/English) marriage and family therapist with both professional training and life experiences. I have experience working with a variety of age groups (children, adolescents, adults, elderly). I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion and my goal is to help you achieve a level of functionality in important domains (relational, social, vocational, occupational) to improve your quality of life.
(858) 212-0956 View (858) 212-0956
Photo of Adolfo Hernandez, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Adolfo Hernandez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92115
My name is Adolfo M. Hernandez and license number is 126948 LMFT. MY approach to therapy is primary to focus on client's personal strengths, cognitive restructuring, increase insight and awareness, increase overall functioning, and problem-solving skills. I had helped children, teens, and adults who suffer from depression, anxiety, alcohol, panic attacks, substance abuse, bipolar, anger, stress, family problems, and many others. I do not rely in a single approach, instead, focusing on client's goals. Moreover, I used Cognitive behavioral, existential, Prolonged exposure for individuals who experienced traumatic experiences.
My name is Adolfo M. Hernandez and license number is 126948 LMFT. MY approach to therapy is primary to focus on client's personal strengths, cognitive restructuring, increase insight and awareness, increase overall functioning, and problem-solving skills. I had helped children, teens, and adults who suffer from depression, anxiety, alcohol, panic attacks, substance abuse, bipolar, anger, stress, family problems, and many others. I do not rely in a single approach, instead, focusing on client's goals. Moreover, I used Cognitive behavioral, existential, Prolonged exposure for individuals who experienced traumatic experiences.
(619) 728-2672 View (619) 728-2672
Photo of Sean O'Hara, Psychologist in San Diego, CA
Sean O'Hara
Psychologist, PsyD, NCAC, I, SAP
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92127
O'Hara treats depression, anxiety, ADHD, psychosis, Bipolar, PTSD.
Sean O'Hara Psy.D, NCAC I, SAP is a State of California and State of Hawai'i Board Licensed Psychologist in San Diego, California and Kahului, Hawai'i, with 33 years experience with psychiatric, mental health, dual-diagnosis and crises intervention health problems. Dr. O'Hara works in Rancho Bernardo and does tele heath sessions. Dr. O'Hara travels the United States to work with clients, corporations and athletes residing in other states. Dr. O'Hara works with all populations and does diversified work with corporations, collegiate and professional sports teams, the entertainment industries and concert tours.
O'Hara treats depression, anxiety, ADHD, psychosis, Bipolar, PTSD.
Sean O'Hara Psy.D, NCAC I, SAP is a State of California and State of Hawai'i Board Licensed Psychologist in San Diego, California and Kahului, Hawai'i, with 33 years experience with psychiatric, mental health, dual-diagnosis and crises intervention health problems. Dr. O'Hara works in Rancho Bernardo and does tele heath sessions. Dr. O'Hara travels the United States to work with clients, corporations and athletes residing in other states. Dr. O'Hara works with all populations and does diversified work with corporations, collegiate and professional sports teams, the entertainment industries and concert tours.
(619) 567-5255 View (619) 567-5255
Photo of Jaina Sarkisyan, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Jaina Sarkisyan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92126
Jaina is experienced in: Narcissistic personality disorder, BPD,anxiety, addiction, OCD, trauma, infidelity, mood disorders, depression, PTSD, relationship & vocational & Bipolar & more.
Let me be part of your journey in this brutiful life. As Glennon Doyle Melton says "Life is brutal. But it is also beautiful. Life's brutal and beautiful woven together so tightly they cannot be separated. Reject the brutal, reject the beauty. Life is Bruitiful." Jaina is an experienced licensed clinician with 18 years of experience providing exceptional clinical care to adults, couples and families. Jaina has many years of experience working w/law enforcement, military and their families. Additionally, working with individuals with life transition issues, Polyamory, anxiety, depression, sexual assault, trauma, SUD and other issues
Jaina is experienced in: Narcissistic personality disorder, BPD,anxiety, addiction, OCD, trauma, infidelity, mood disorders, depression, PTSD, relationship & vocational & Bipolar & more.
Let me be part of your journey in this brutiful life. As Glennon Doyle Melton says "Life is brutal. But it is also beautiful. Life's brutal and beautiful woven together so tightly they cannot be separated. Reject the brutal, reject the beauty. Life is Bruitiful." Jaina is an experienced licensed clinician with 18 years of experience providing exceptional clinical care to adults, couples and families. Jaina has many years of experience working w/law enforcement, military and their families. Additionally, working with individuals with life transition issues, Polyamory, anxiety, depression, sexual assault, trauma, SUD and other issues
(858) 227-6212 View (858) 227-6212
Photo of Arrionne Aguilar Taitague, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Diego, CA
Arrionne Aguilar Taitague
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92182  (Online Only)
I specialize in trauma-informed care and related disorders, grief & loss, as well as a variety of other mental health issues you may be experiencing including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, suicidal thoughts, etc.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social worker serving clients in California and Nevada. I graduated from the University of Southern California (USC) with a Master's in Social Work degree. I have over 10 years of experience with crisis work and mental health in outpatient clinics, emergency department, and inpatient hospital settings, as well as private practice. I have worked primarily with adults, Veterans, first responders, and transitional-aged youth (18-21).
I specialize in trauma-informed care and related disorders, grief & loss, as well as a variety of other mental health issues you may be experiencing including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, suicidal thoughts, etc.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social worker serving clients in California and Nevada. I graduated from the University of Southern California (USC) with a Master's in Social Work degree. I have over 10 years of experience with crisis work and mental health in outpatient clinics, emergency department, and inpatient hospital settings, as well as private practice. I have worked primarily with adults, Veterans, first responders, and transitional-aged youth (18-21).
(916) 587-7679 View (916) 587-7679
Photo of Paul Wilcox, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Paul Wilcox
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92101
I also have experience treating Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar disorder, other mood disorders, Codependency, marital/ relationship problems, dual diagnoses, alcohol and substance abuse, identity crises, life transitions, and more.
I have been working as a Marriage and Family Therapist and Professional Clinical Counselor since 2015. I’ve worked in a variety of settings, including Private Practice, group homes with wards of the State of CA, going into people’s homes to do therapy, and in trauma focused rehab and recovery programs. My foundation is client centered therapy which helps to create a safe, comfortable, non judgmental atmosphere. I also integrate various evidence based modalities into treatment, including CBT, Mindfulness, Solution Focused, Psychodynamic, MI, Strength Based, Gestalt, Existential, Gottman, Hypnotherapy, EMDR, and more
I also have experience treating Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar disorder, other mood disorders, Codependency, marital/ relationship problems, dual diagnoses, alcohol and substance abuse, identity crises, life transitions, and more.
I have been working as a Marriage and Family Therapist and Professional Clinical Counselor since 2015. I’ve worked in a variety of settings, including Private Practice, group homes with wards of the State of CA, going into people’s homes to do therapy, and in trauma focused rehab and recovery programs. My foundation is client centered therapy which helps to create a safe, comfortable, non judgmental atmosphere. I also integrate various evidence based modalities into treatment, including CBT, Mindfulness, Solution Focused, Psychodynamic, MI, Strength Based, Gestalt, Existential, Gottman, Hypnotherapy, EMDR, and more
(442) 259-6892 View (442) 259-6892
Photo of Individual & Family Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Diego, CA
Individual & Family Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108  (Online Only)
I'm a therapist that specializes in helping people resolve relationship issues, depression and anxiety. I offer tools to help people develop coping skills to handle difficult situations and navigate through stressful life changes. I teach techniques to assist in effective communication, boundary setting, stress management and conflict resolution. I help clients to manage difficult emotions, overcome negative thinking, feel more confident, and create loving relationships. I work with adults, couples, adolescents, and families. I will return emails within 24 hours in regard to openings and please provide your insurance information.
I'm a therapist that specializes in helping people resolve relationship issues, depression and anxiety. I offer tools to help people develop coping skills to handle difficult situations and navigate through stressful life changes. I teach techniques to assist in effective communication, boundary setting, stress management and conflict resolution. I help clients to manage difficult emotions, overcome negative thinking, feel more confident, and create loving relationships. I work with adults, couples, adolescents, and families. I will return emails within 24 hours in regard to openings and please provide your insurance information.
(619) 419-0672 View (619) 419-0672
Photo of Sarah Izaguirre, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Sarah Izaguirre
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92106
Working with children, teenagers, adults, and families has been my priority for the past 7 years in order to help them develop the skills they need to build healthy lives. My goal is to create a safe environment in which individuals feel comfortable expressing themselves openly and free of judgment. I believe in working as a team in order to help each person develop insight in themselves and their situation, while cultivating their strengths, and highlighting their resiliency. When needed, I involve parents, families, psychiatrists, and physicians in order to ensure collaboration to increase the client's support within treatment.
Working with children, teenagers, adults, and families has been my priority for the past 7 years in order to help them develop the skills they need to build healthy lives. My goal is to create a safe environment in which individuals feel comfortable expressing themselves openly and free of judgment. I believe in working as a team in order to help each person develop insight in themselves and their situation, while cultivating their strengths, and highlighting their resiliency. When needed, I involve parents, families, psychiatrists, and physicians in order to ensure collaboration to increase the client's support within treatment.
(619) 598-1117 View (619) 598-1117
Photo of Alyson Bifano, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Diego, CA
Alyson Bifano
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92105
Hi, I am Alyson Bifano, LCSW, a licensed clinical social worker with a strong commitment to providing compassionate and evidence-based therapy. My approach to therapy is client-centered, emphasizing a safe and supportive environment that allows individuals to explore their thoughts and emotions freely. I specialize in areas such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship issues, tailoring my treatment plans to meet each client's unique needs and goals.
Hi, I am Alyson Bifano, LCSW, a licensed clinical social worker with a strong commitment to providing compassionate and evidence-based therapy. My approach to therapy is client-centered, emphasizing a safe and supportive environment that allows individuals to explore their thoughts and emotions freely. I specialize in areas such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship issues, tailoring my treatment plans to meet each client's unique needs and goals.
(415) 980-8316 View (415) 980-8316
Photo of Betty Blanc, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Betty Blanc
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92101  (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Betty Blanc, and I am a licensed marriage and family therapist who believes in helping clients achieve their personal goals to improve their lives and enhance their relationships. Throughout my therapy career, I have been interested in exploring the depths and complexities of couples and became trained in using Gottman Method for couples therapy and Emotionally Focused Therapy for couples in crisis in my therapy work. In using these methods, I am able to guide couples in learning how to rebuild the love, fondness, companionship, and affection that has been lost over the years.
Hello! My name is Betty Blanc, and I am a licensed marriage and family therapist who believes in helping clients achieve their personal goals to improve their lives and enhance their relationships. Throughout my therapy career, I have been interested in exploring the depths and complexities of couples and became trained in using Gottman Method for couples therapy and Emotionally Focused Therapy for couples in crisis in my therapy work. In using these methods, I am able to guide couples in learning how to rebuild the love, fondness, companionship, and affection that has been lost over the years.
(951) 474-1262 View (951) 474-1262
Photo of Ruby Estrada, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Ruby Estrada
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92117
Hello. My name is Ruby Estrada. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I approach therapy at your pace, which I can follow or match with rather quickly. My focus is centered on you and building whatever strengths you put forth whether you are aware of them or not. I help someone find a way to get through a problem or conflict, this is my approach. I am straightforward when you need me to be and gentle when the situation calls for empathy, or a balance of both. For 21 years, I have treated depression, anxiety, PTSD, LGBTQ+-related issues, ADHD, and adults finding themselves on the Autism Spectrum.
Hello. My name is Ruby Estrada. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I approach therapy at your pace, which I can follow or match with rather quickly. My focus is centered on you and building whatever strengths you put forth whether you are aware of them or not. I help someone find a way to get through a problem or conflict, this is my approach. I am straightforward when you need me to be and gentle when the situation calls for empathy, or a balance of both. For 21 years, I have treated depression, anxiety, PTSD, LGBTQ+-related issues, ADHD, and adults finding themselves on the Autism Spectrum.
(619) 586-6733 View (619) 586-6733
Photo of Tajia Trone, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Tajia Trone
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92154
I am a person-centered therapist who believes in tailoring therapy to her clients individual needs and believes in going into each session with an open mind allowing the client to take hold of each session. I believe in helping the client identify situations or behaviors that have contributed to their illnesses or struggles and together we work to change these behaviors and overcome challenges. I believe that therapy should include unconditional positive regard, compassion, genuineness, and understanding where the client is at. I specialize in working to improve individuals’ self-worth, self-esteem, and self-compassion.
I am a person-centered therapist who believes in tailoring therapy to her clients individual needs and believes in going into each session with an open mind allowing the client to take hold of each session. I believe in helping the client identify situations or behaviors that have contributed to their illnesses or struggles and together we work to change these behaviors and overcome challenges. I believe that therapy should include unconditional positive regard, compassion, genuineness, and understanding where the client is at. I specialize in working to improve individuals’ self-worth, self-esteem, and self-compassion.
(619) 651-9843 View (619) 651-9843
Photo of Ann Anderson, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Ann Anderson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92103
Nobody’s childhood dream was to grow up and feel overwhelmed, alone, stuck or unworthy. I aim to help individuals heal from trauma-related issues such as anxiety, depression, and relationship/family issues. If you find yourself living without a navigation system to understand emotional terrain or trauma that impacts your well-being; you are not alone. All of us go through rough patches in our lives. My approach is specific to meet your unique needs in a safe and non-judgemental space.
Nobody’s childhood dream was to grow up and feel overwhelmed, alone, stuck or unworthy. I aim to help individuals heal from trauma-related issues such as anxiety, depression, and relationship/family issues. If you find yourself living without a navigation system to understand emotional terrain or trauma that impacts your well-being; you are not alone. All of us go through rough patches in our lives. My approach is specific to meet your unique needs in a safe and non-judgemental space.
(760) 280-9425 View (760) 280-9425
Photo of Jamey McCormick, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Jamey McCormick
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92107
I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist passionate about aiding individuals of all ages, including kids, adolescents, parents, and adults. My aim is to empower you or your family to better manage life's challenges and stressors. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, seeking to improve relationships, kick unhealthy habits, or simply aiming for a better understanding of yourself, I'm here to support your journey toward a happier, more confident, and fulfilled life. My expertise encompasses handling anxiety, depression, parenting challenges, relationship issues, grief, trauma, and self-esteem concerns.
I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist passionate about aiding individuals of all ages, including kids, adolescents, parents, and adults. My aim is to empower you or your family to better manage life's challenges and stressors. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, seeking to improve relationships, kick unhealthy habits, or simply aiming for a better understanding of yourself, I'm here to support your journey toward a happier, more confident, and fulfilled life. My expertise encompasses handling anxiety, depression, parenting challenges, relationship issues, grief, trauma, and self-esteem concerns.
(619) 473-7897 View (619) 473-7897
Photo of Dr. Ericka Wray, Psychological Associate in San Diego, CA
Dr. Ericka Wray
Psychological Associate, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92101
I have over a decade of professional experience in the mental health field accrued in both the US and Europe. Most of this experience has been spent working with older adolescent and adult populations. I have significant experience providing individual and group therapy to military service members and their families. Through focusing on firefighter mental health issues during my doctoral program (as well as being a “fire wife”), I have also become a specialist in mental health issues within the fire service.
I have over a decade of professional experience in the mental health field accrued in both the US and Europe. Most of this experience has been spent working with older adolescent and adult populations. I have significant experience providing individual and group therapy to military service members and their families. Through focusing on firefighter mental health issues during my doctoral program (as well as being a “fire wife”), I have also become a specialist in mental health issues within the fire service.
(619) 853-5712 View (619) 853-5712
Photo of Dr. Ca-Lie Cheng-Wang, Psychologist in San Diego, CA
Dr. Ca-Lie Cheng-Wang
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108
I am a Mandarin and English-speaking psychologist.
I am a Mandarin and English-speaking psychologist.
(619) 273-0785 View (619) 273-0785
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.