Photo of Monica (Love The Beach) Ferraro, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in California
Monica (Love The Beach) Ferraro
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, CA AMFT, MA/EMDR, DV/P&V, IFS, NP, TX LPCA
Verified Verified
La Mesa, CA 91942  (Online Only)
Welcome Couples and young adults ready to make the "shifts" in life to find THE thing that you're missing. First step, awareness; then reflection and finally forward thinking options. It's scary, but let's examine what is and tackle the fear; THIS is where the biggest growth begins! Neuroplasticity is the tool; you have it. I work with trauma, anxiety, bipolar, depression, grief, sexual abuse/rape, addiction, nonstop thoughts, low self esteem and nightmares. Is peace worth seeking? Let's get after it CA and Texas!
Welcome Couples and young adults ready to make the "shifts" in life to find THE thing that you're missing. First step, awareness; then reflection and finally forward thinking options. It's scary, but let's examine what is and tackle the fear; THIS is where the biggest growth begins! Neuroplasticity is the tool; you have it. I work with trauma, anxiety, bipolar, depression, grief, sexual abuse/rape, addiction, nonstop thoughts, low self esteem and nightmares. Is peace worth seeking? Let's get after it CA and Texas!
(619) 259-6498 View (619) 259-6498
Photo of Dr. Terri Thomas, Counselor in California
Dr. Terri Thomas
Counselor, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
Hesperia, CA 92345
I provide care to individuals, couples, and families who have found themselves in need of making adjustments in their lives or wanting to learn more about a mental health diagnosis such as depression, anxiety, bipolar, trauma, obsessive behaviors, substance/alcohol issues, schizophrenia, personality issues, marital problems, or parent/child issues.
Life throws many challenges our way and we choose which action to take in responding to those challenges. I've worked with people from various social, political, and ethnic backgrounds and the one thing that everyone has in common is that we all face challenges in life. There are numerous reasons that people seek mental health professionals, and those reasons are very personal and unique to each person. Finding the right professional to guide you in learning more about your mental health diagnosis, getting you through an immediate crisis, or feelings of uncertainty are important in getting you through tough times.
I provide care to individuals, couples, and families who have found themselves in need of making adjustments in their lives or wanting to learn more about a mental health diagnosis such as depression, anxiety, bipolar, trauma, obsessive behaviors, substance/alcohol issues, schizophrenia, personality issues, marital problems, or parent/child issues.
Life throws many challenges our way and we choose which action to take in responding to those challenges. I've worked with people from various social, political, and ethnic backgrounds and the one thing that everyone has in common is that we all face challenges in life. There are numerous reasons that people seek mental health professionals, and those reasons are very personal and unique to each person. Finding the right professional to guide you in learning more about your mental health diagnosis, getting you through an immediate crisis, or feelings of uncertainty are important in getting you through tough times.
(760) 853-5086 View (760) 853-5086
Photo of Linda Fujino, Marriage & Family Therapist in California
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 Kris Winslow, Marriage & Family Therapist in California
Kris Winslow
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MBA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Inglewood, CA 90302  (Online Only)
I see a lot of people who have been diagnosed with anxiety, depression, PTSD and bipolar disorder.
There is really no issue to big or too small to bring to therapy. I have seen people go through so much positive change because of their work in therapy and think it is such an awesome process. Just because we can go through life in survival mode and bouncing off our ups and downs, does not mean we should. I love to talk about everything therapy, so I encourage people to reach out.
I see a lot of people who have been diagnosed with anxiety, depression, PTSD and bipolar disorder.
There is really no issue to big or too small to bring to therapy. I have seen people go through so much positive change because of their work in therapy and think it is such an awesome process. Just because we can go through life in survival mode and bouncing off our ups and downs, does not mean we should. I love to talk about everything therapy, so I encourage people to reach out.
(323) 973-2279 View (323) 973-2279
Photo of Renee Michelle Ward, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in California
Renee Michelle Ward
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92604  (Online Only)
Greetings! My name is Renee and I'm a licensed clinical social worker. We spend too much time feeling as though we're not good enough or can't achieve our dreams. How we think about ourselves and our environment directly determines how we feel. As a therapist I have had the opportunity to work with clients looking for guidance and relief in many areas such as: anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, addiction, ADHD symptoms, life transitions, body dysmorphia and gender dysphoria. Please contact me for a 15 min free consultation to see if we are a good fit. I will get back to you within 24 hours.
Greetings! My name is Renee and I'm a licensed clinical social worker. We spend too much time feeling as though we're not good enough or can't achieve our dreams. How we think about ourselves and our environment directly determines how we feel. As a therapist I have had the opportunity to work with clients looking for guidance and relief in many areas such as: anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, addiction, ADHD symptoms, life transitions, body dysmorphia and gender dysphoria. Please contact me for a 15 min free consultation to see if we are a good fit. I will get back to you within 24 hours.
(714) 586-8678 View (714) 586-8678
Photo of Nicole Pascavis, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in California
Nicole Pascavis
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
Culver City, CA 90230
I support clients through self-discovery, major life transitions, anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, family challenges, and more with insightful care.
I work with adults, children, couples, and families confronting a wide range of mental, emotional, spiritual, and relational challenges. These can range from major symptom and conflict management to a desire for greater meaning, balance, self-love, and mental clarity. Some goals we build toward together may include: self-understanding and a sense of wholeness; helping you become your own best ally in health and life; healthy relationships and support systems; improved self-esteem; identifying and communicating needs and feelings effectively; and greater creativity and empowerment in crafting your own life and story.
I support clients through self-discovery, major life transitions, anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, family challenges, and more with insightful care.
I work with adults, children, couples, and families confronting a wide range of mental, emotional, spiritual, and relational challenges. These can range from major symptom and conflict management to a desire for greater meaning, balance, self-love, and mental clarity. Some goals we build toward together may include: self-understanding and a sense of wholeness; helping you become your own best ally in health and life; healthy relationships and support systems; improved self-esteem; identifying and communicating needs and feelings effectively; and greater creativity and empowerment in crafting your own life and story.
(323) 210-3760 View (323) 210-3760
Photo of Darin A Conway, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in California
Darin A Conway
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PPSC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Altos, CA 94022
My specialty is working with anxiety, depression, bipolar, self-harm, substance use, suicidal ideation and relationship issues.
Working with individuals who feel they need some extra support to tackle challenges that life throws at them is my passion. I believe that through the relationship and work between client and therapist, behaviors can be adjusted, relationships can be mended, unhealthy coping skills can be identified and reworked, and healthy change can occur. I create a safe, comfortable therapeutic environment where individuals can succeed in making positive growth in their lives. Taking a straightforward, honest, relaxed and empathetic approach to supporting clients frees clients to open up, discover their strengths and make the most of therapy.
My specialty is working with anxiety, depression, bipolar, self-harm, substance use, suicidal ideation and relationship issues.
Working with individuals who feel they need some extra support to tackle challenges that life throws at them is my passion. I believe that through the relationship and work between client and therapist, behaviors can be adjusted, relationships can be mended, unhealthy coping skills can be identified and reworked, and healthy change can occur. I create a safe, comfortable therapeutic environment where individuals can succeed in making positive growth in their lives. Taking a straightforward, honest, relaxed and empathetic approach to supporting clients frees clients to open up, discover their strengths and make the most of therapy.
(650) 646-3309 View (650) 646-3309
Photo of Dr. Cassidy Blair, Psychologist in California
Dr. Cassidy Blair
Psychologist, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92612
I specialize in treatment of Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar D/O, variety of Addictions, Trauma, Intimacy and Relationship Issues, Eating D/O, Life Coaching and Performance Coaching.
WE OFFER EVENING AND WEEKEND APPOINTMENTS. My goal is to help you improve the quality of your life and make positive changes by reducing your Anxiety, Depression, eliminating stress, Addiction, and gaining back control. You will achieve a much higher quality of life in a safe, exclusive and caring environment. I will support you to discover your inner strength, and develop effective coping skills. You will experience freedom from emotional pain and feel empowered to achieve your goals and dreams. I provide CONCEIRGE care to executives and professionals.
I specialize in treatment of Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar D/O, variety of Addictions, Trauma, Intimacy and Relationship Issues, Eating D/O, Life Coaching and Performance Coaching.
WE OFFER EVENING AND WEEKEND APPOINTMENTS. My goal is to help you improve the quality of your life and make positive changes by reducing your Anxiety, Depression, eliminating stress, Addiction, and gaining back control. You will achieve a much higher quality of life in a safe, exclusive and caring environment. I will support you to discover your inner strength, and develop effective coping skills. You will experience freedom from emotional pain and feel empowered to achieve your goals and dreams. I provide CONCEIRGE care to executives and professionals.
(424) 888-6124 View (424) 888-6124
Photo of Janice Ciccarelli, Psychologist in California
Janice Ciccarelli
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Claremont, CA 91711  (Online Only)
I work with individuals who are dealing with various life issues that may include anxiety, depression, stress, relationship problems, self harm, trauma, insomnia, women's issues, men's issues, physical illness, academic problems, attention deficits and parenting skills. I also treat individuals who have serious mental illness such as psychotic and bipolar disorders. I work with individuals, couples and families.
I work with individuals who are dealing with various life issues that may include anxiety, depression, stress, relationship problems, self harm, trauma, insomnia, women's issues, men's issues, physical illness, academic problems, attention deficits and parenting skills. I also treat individuals who have serious mental illness such as psychotic and bipolar disorders. I work with individuals, couples and families.
(909) 295-7811 View (909) 295-7811
Photo of Irenda Rios Immigration Evaluation Evaluaciones Inmigracion, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in California
Irenda Rios Immigration Evaluation Evaluaciones Inmigracion
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
La Mesa, CA 91942
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 Anger Management 818, Marriage & Family Therapist in California
Anger Management 818
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, TFT, CAMS-IV
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
Do your colleagues, friends or family tell you to get help to work through your anger? Is your relationship or work life at risk because of your irritability? At Anger Management 818 we offer several different programs designed to help you navigate through upsetting situations, and handle conflicts effectively. Let our certified anger management counselors help you manage your daily life more smoothly and calmly. Learn to communicate without getting defensive, increase empathy, deescalate a situation, and manage situations diplomatically. Become the person you want to be. Take your first step today and enroll through our website.
Do your colleagues, friends or family tell you to get help to work through your anger? Is your relationship or work life at risk because of your irritability? At Anger Management 818 we offer several different programs designed to help you navigate through upsetting situations, and handle conflicts effectively. Let our certified anger management counselors help you manage your daily life more smoothly and calmly. Learn to communicate without getting defensive, increase empathy, deescalate a situation, and manage situations diplomatically. Become the person you want to be. Take your first step today and enroll through our website.
(818) 853-9469 View (818) 853-9469
Photo of Kelsey Barillas, LMFT, #133292, Marriage & Family Therapist in California
Kelsey Barillas, LMFT, #133292
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
La Mesa, CA 91942  (Online Only)
How’s life? Want to talk about it? It can be hard to take the first step in finding a psychotherapist who is a good fit for you but, you’ve already gotten closer by exploring the web. Depression, Anxiety, Stress, and other Mental Health matters can be hard to manage and get in the way of having a peaceful and fulfilling life. If you or your teen/young adult are struggling with your emotional wellbeing, thoughts, feelings, or adjustments to life experiences, we can work together to look at how to make progress and the changes that you need to process some of the current matters you are facing.
How’s life? Want to talk about it? It can be hard to take the first step in finding a psychotherapist who is a good fit for you but, you’ve already gotten closer by exploring the web. Depression, Anxiety, Stress, and other Mental Health matters can be hard to manage and get in the way of having a peaceful and fulfilling life. If you or your teen/young adult are struggling with your emotional wellbeing, thoughts, feelings, or adjustments to life experiences, we can work together to look at how to make progress and the changes that you need to process some of the current matters you are facing.
(619) 375-5117 View (619) 375-5117
Photo of Scott T Barrella, Marriage & Family Therapist in California
Scott T Barrella
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, sbarrella
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Simi Valley, CA 93065
As a Specialist with over 28 years experience, I am and expert in treating adults experiencing anxiety, depression, and relational challenges. I was a guest expert on Oprah and Dr. Phil. You will learn new skills and workable solutions for handling conflict. My goal is to help you focus on your present journey and where you would like your journey to lead. I have the vital experience working with adults and children who are in family law cases. I own Cornerstone Counseling. We treat depression, anxiety, and a wide variety of mental health challenges. Experience Counts!
As a Specialist with over 28 years experience, I am and expert in treating adults experiencing anxiety, depression, and relational challenges. I was a guest expert on Oprah and Dr. Phil. You will learn new skills and workable solutions for handling conflict. My goal is to help you focus on your present journey and where you would like your journey to lead. I have the vital experience working with adults and children who are in family law cases. I own Cornerstone Counseling. We treat depression, anxiety, and a wide variety of mental health challenges. Experience Counts!
(805) 256-7878 View (805) 256-7878
Photo of Jacqueline Anthony, Marriage & Family Therapist in California
Jacqueline Anthony
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90008
Accepting New Clients!!!! My name is Jacqueline Anthony, and I am a licensed marriage and family therapist in the state of California and Nevada. I began my career in counseling in the 1980’s when I served as a Correctional Counselor for the California Department of Corrections. While working for the Department of Corrections, I received many life lessons that inform my practice today. Though too numerous to mention, the most salient points include the resiliency of the human spirit, the resolve of a vision, and the truth that our true and lasting wealth is “this moment, this hour, this day.”
Accepting New Clients!!!! My name is Jacqueline Anthony, and I am a licensed marriage and family therapist in the state of California and Nevada. I began my career in counseling in the 1980’s when I served as a Correctional Counselor for the California Department of Corrections. While working for the Department of Corrections, I received many life lessons that inform my practice today. Though too numerous to mention, the most salient points include the resiliency of the human spirit, the resolve of a vision, and the truth that our true and lasting wealth is “this moment, this hour, this day.”
(702) 766-8681 View (702) 766-8681
Photo of Melissa Johnson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in California
Melissa Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, ASW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90010
Hi I'm Melissa! As a associate clinical social worker, I dive deep into understanding how family dynamics and societal influences intersect with an individual's mental well-being. My journey involves aiding adults and teens battle with substance addiction, depression, anxiety, trauma, self-harm, and family discord across diverse treatment settings from outpatient to residential care. I thrive on navigating clients through crises and pivotal life transitions.
Hi I'm Melissa! As a associate clinical social worker, I dive deep into understanding how family dynamics and societal influences intersect with an individual's mental well-being. My journey involves aiding adults and teens battle with substance addiction, depression, anxiety, trauma, self-harm, and family discord across diverse treatment settings from outpatient to residential care. I thrive on navigating clients through crises and pivotal life transitions.
(213) 645-2837 View (213) 645-2837
Photo of Morgan Joines, Marriage & Family Therapist in California
Morgan Joines
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Los Gatos, CA 95032
Welcome! There comes a time in everyone's life when talking to someone is a healthy step in bringing peace and balance to ones life. If you are reading this, you are one step closer to deciding if talking to a therapist is right for you at this time in your life. My goal is to help you feel comfortable and safe in the therapeutic process. To help build trust, that therapy can be a useful and effective tool to help achieve the health, healing and balance that you wish to bring to your life.
Welcome! There comes a time in everyone's life when talking to someone is a healthy step in bringing peace and balance to ones life. If you are reading this, you are one step closer to deciding if talking to a therapist is right for you at this time in your life. My goal is to help you feel comfortable and safe in the therapeutic process. To help build trust, that therapy can be a useful and effective tool to help achieve the health, healing and balance that you wish to bring to your life.
(408) 609-3863 View (408) 609-3863
Photo of Taylor Barragan, Marriage & Family Therapist in California
Taylor Barragan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MN, LMFT, PMH-C, CLC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Anaheim, CA 92805  (Online Only)
Clients work with me when they want to get to the root of their emotions, experiences, and symptoms. I balance providing enough space for processing and “getting it all out" while being honest, direct, and forthright. If asked, "what do you think?" I won't shy away from providing you with my honest insights. I am a therapist who will give you direct feedback based on what I’ve deeply learned about you through our work together and evidence-based research.
Clients work with me when they want to get to the root of their emotions, experiences, and symptoms. I balance providing enough space for processing and “getting it all out" while being honest, direct, and forthright. If asked, "what do you think?" I won't shy away from providing you with my honest insights. I am a therapist who will give you direct feedback based on what I’ve deeply learned about you through our work together and evidence-based research.
(714) 881-5639 View (714) 881-5639
Photo of Nicole Oliva, Marriage & Family Therapist in California
Nicole Oliva
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91105
Thinking about change can feel overwhelming. If you feel stuck, burned out, or things feel out of control, you are not alone. I provide a warm, interactive space where you can show up authentically, and explore your feelings without judgement. My job is to help you uncover the root causes of your distress without judgement, and teach you practical tools and skills you can rely on. Together, we can customize an action plan to create lasting, positive change in your life.
Thinking about change can feel overwhelming. If you feel stuck, burned out, or things feel out of control, you are not alone. I provide a warm, interactive space where you can show up authentically, and explore your feelings without judgement. My job is to help you uncover the root causes of your distress without judgement, and teach you practical tools and skills you can rely on. Together, we can customize an action plan to create lasting, positive change in your life.
(626) 559-8967 View (626) 559-8967
Photo of Spring To Autumn Family Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist in California
Spring To Autumn Family Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Redlands, CA 92374
Need support to tackle some of life's difficulties? It is ok to ask for help sometimes. Many of the individuals and families who contact us are all looking for the same tools: learning to cope and reduce stress, overcoming trauma, and finding peace of mind. We help tackle everyday issues with an evidenced based behavioral approach. We help with marital/premarital counseling, individuals with depression, anxiety, or mood issues, children and teenage struggles and much more. We are ready to help with providing support and making positive changes. We are a group practice with many therapist options to choose from.
Need support to tackle some of life's difficulties? It is ok to ask for help sometimes. Many of the individuals and families who contact us are all looking for the same tools: learning to cope and reduce stress, overcoming trauma, and finding peace of mind. We help tackle everyday issues with an evidenced based behavioral approach. We help with marital/premarital counseling, individuals with depression, anxiety, or mood issues, children and teenage struggles and much more. We are ready to help with providing support and making positive changes. We are a group practice with many therapist options to choose from.
(909) 557-6574 View (909) 557-6574
Photo of Veronica Calkins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in California
Veronica Calkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254  (Online Only)
A Licensed Psychotherapist specializing in trauma, crisis, grief, anxiety, depression, and relationships. Veronica provides an empathetic and caring environment to work through challenges without judgment. Veronica obtained her B.A. in Psychology with a minor in Applied Developmental Psychology and Master’s in Social Welfare at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). She is trained in CBT, DBT, and family and couples therapy. She is also certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and the administration of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Deep-Brain Theta Stimulation.
A Licensed Psychotherapist specializing in trauma, crisis, grief, anxiety, depression, and relationships. Veronica provides an empathetic and caring environment to work through challenges without judgment. Veronica obtained her B.A. in Psychology with a minor in Applied Developmental Psychology and Master’s in Social Welfare at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). She is trained in CBT, DBT, and family and couples therapy. She is also certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and the administration of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Deep-Brain Theta Stimulation.
(562) 268-0951 View (562) 268-0951
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.