Bipolar Disorder Therapists in New York

Photo of Liana Bekker in New York
Liana Bekker
MSW, BC, AADP, DC, Life Co
Verified Verified
Suffern, NY 10901
My goal is to create a nonjudgmental environment and a safe place to share all of life’s stressors. Specializing in all areas of discomfort and struggles. Discover you inner balance between vulnerability and making the right choices! Take a mindful and soulful approach to making your life better with future awareness of your issues at hand. Focus on mental health with an option to holistically focus on mind, body, and soul as one entity. If we treat it all we receive the maximum mental health experience because one affects the other. Individual, couples, sex, CBT, DBT, and somatic, adhd, bipolar, and personality disorders addressed.
My goal is to create a nonjudgmental environment and a safe place to share all of life’s stressors. Specializing in all areas of discomfort and struggles. Discover you inner balance between vulnerability and making the right choices! Take a mindful and soulful approach to making your life better with future awareness of your issues at hand. Focus on mental health with an option to holistically focus on mind, body, and soul as one entity. If we treat it all we receive the maximum mental health experience because one affects the other. Individual, couples, sex, CBT, DBT, and somatic, adhd, bipolar, and personality disorders addressed.
(845) 867-2489 View (845) 867-2489
Photo of Deborah Ann Perlick, Psychologist in New York
Deborah Ann Perlick
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10075  (Online Only)
I work with people troubled by mood or anxiety problems, and friends or family who help them through the rough spots, sometimes referred to as caregivers. During the pandemic, mental health needs have increased exponentially, with clients seeking help with stress reduction, coping and relationship skills. I provide help for people with stress-related problems, and for those coping with lifetime problems, such as bipolar disorder or major depression. I work with caregivers to improve communication and empathy for the partner or family member. I also work with groups, where clients where clients learn and feel supported by others.
I work with people troubled by mood or anxiety problems, and friends or family who help them through the rough spots, sometimes referred to as caregivers. During the pandemic, mental health needs have increased exponentially, with clients seeking help with stress reduction, coping and relationship skills. I provide help for people with stress-related problems, and for those coping with lifetime problems, such as bipolar disorder or major depression. I work with caregivers to improve communication and empathy for the partner or family member. I also work with groups, where clients where clients learn and feel supported by others.
(646) 791-3443 View (646) 791-3443
Photo of Monique Zellars, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
Monique Zellars
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10016  (Online Only)
I am skilled in using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) to treat conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, behavioral dysregulation, suicidal ideation and self-harming behaviors.
I received my Bachelor of Arts in History and African American Studies from The University of Michigan and a Master of Social Work from Tulane University. Before joining Rivia, I worked in private practice, university settings and intensive outpatient programs. I use a nonjudgmental approach to helping you assess behaviors and develop goals for your life. By coupling building tangible skills with introspection, I help you develop a complete view of your diagnosis without being stifled by ineffective shame or guilt.
I am skilled in using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) to treat conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, behavioral dysregulation, suicidal ideation and self-harming behaviors.
I received my Bachelor of Arts in History and African American Studies from The University of Michigan and a Master of Social Work from Tulane University. Before joining Rivia, I worked in private practice, university settings and intensive outpatient programs. I use a nonjudgmental approach to helping you assess behaviors and develop goals for your life. By coupling building tangible skills with introspection, I help you develop a complete view of your diagnosis without being stifled by ineffective shame or guilt.
(646) 430-8695 View (646) 430-8695
Photo of Tracey Gecewicz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
Tracey Gecewicz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hicksville, NY 11801
I obtained my Master's in Social Work from Fordham University with a BS in Social Work from LIU. I maintain a well established Private Practice where I provide therapeutic services to individuals (18 years and up), couples, and families dealing with a wide ranges of issues including, but not limited to anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, divorce and marital discord.
I obtained my Master's in Social Work from Fordham University with a BS in Social Work from LIU. I maintain a well established Private Practice where I provide therapeutic services to individuals (18 years and up), couples, and families dealing with a wide ranges of issues including, but not limited to anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, divorce and marital discord.
(631) 759-8336 View (631) 759-8336
Photo of Nisha Beth Chitkara, Psychologist in New York
Nisha Beth Chitkara
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Plainview, NY 11803  (Online Only)
I treat children, adolescents, and adults with a variety of difficulties including anxiety, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and life stressors.
Hello, my name is Nisha Chitkara, Ph.D. I have my doctorate in Clinical and School Psychology. The types of treatments I use with patients are evidence-based, meaning they have been shown in clinical studies to be effective. These include cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, exposure and response prevention, mindfulness based stress reduction, interpersonal social rhythms therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and motivational interviewing.
I treat children, adolescents, and adults with a variety of difficulties including anxiety, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and life stressors.
Hello, my name is Nisha Chitkara, Ph.D. I have my doctorate in Clinical and School Psychology. The types of treatments I use with patients are evidence-based, meaning they have been shown in clinical studies to be effective. These include cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, exposure and response prevention, mindfulness based stress reduction, interpersonal social rhythms therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and motivational interviewing.
(631) 400-3285 View (631) 400-3285
Photo of Kristin Keller, Mental Health Counseling, PLLC in New York
Kristin Keller, Mental Health Counseling, PLLC
MS, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Amherst, NY 14228
I treat individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, emotional dys-regulation, PTSD, mood disorder, interpersonal difficulty and DV.
Therapy is a tool to help a person become the best version of themselves. Trauma, stress, unhealthy relationships, poor coping skills, emotional dys-regulation are all factors that contribute to being unwell. Counseling allows a person to work through those barriers and improve the way that they manage stress, find healthy ways to express emotions, work through trauma that has caused you harm, build tools to have healthy, productive, relationships with others and ultimately find alternate ways to cope with distressing events within our lives. A counselor is not only a therapist, but a guide and facilitator of growth.
I treat individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, emotional dys-regulation, PTSD, mood disorder, interpersonal difficulty and DV.
Therapy is a tool to help a person become the best version of themselves. Trauma, stress, unhealthy relationships, poor coping skills, emotional dys-regulation are all factors that contribute to being unwell. Counseling allows a person to work through those barriers and improve the way that they manage stress, find healthy ways to express emotions, work through trauma that has caused you harm, build tools to have healthy, productive, relationships with others and ultimately find alternate ways to cope with distressing events within our lives. A counselor is not only a therapist, but a guide and facilitator of growth.
(716) 272-1282 View (716) 272-1282
Photo of Cecily Anders, Psychologist in New York
Cecily Anders
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ithaca, NY 14850
I have experience in treating trauma, anxiety, OCD, insomnia, depression, bipolar disorder, psychosis, and interpersonal concerns using a variety of evidence based treatments.
Therapy is a journey where you learn more about yourself, your internal experience, and your loved ones in order to change your life based on your own goals and values. I can help you and/or other members of your family gain flexibility in your thoughts and actions through experiential skill development. At times, therapy can involve vulnerability and emotional expression; while at other times, it can be playful and enlightening. My goal is to create a warm and safe environment where emotions, thoughts, memories, and other internal experiences can be explored with compassion and understanding.
I have experience in treating trauma, anxiety, OCD, insomnia, depression, bipolar disorder, psychosis, and interpersonal concerns using a variety of evidence based treatments.
Therapy is a journey where you learn more about yourself, your internal experience, and your loved ones in order to change your life based on your own goals and values. I can help you and/or other members of your family gain flexibility in your thoughts and actions through experiential skill development. At times, therapy can involve vulnerability and emotional expression; while at other times, it can be playful and enlightening. My goal is to create a warm and safe environment where emotions, thoughts, memories, and other internal experiences can be explored with compassion and understanding.
(855) 998-3758 View (855) 998-3758
Photo of Brannan Mary Piper, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
Brannan Mary Piper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BS, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10011
I am an individual psychotherapist who has been practicing for over 30 years. Because of my extensive training I am equipped to treat numerous conditions. My areas of specialization focus on depression, Bipolar, anxiety, self-esteem, and problems originating in childhood. If you are facing any of these challenges then you have found the right therapist. Highly intuitive, gentle, curious and a good listener, I value a stance which is open-minded and non-judgmental. I provide a calming and affirming environment in which you are free to share your issues and problems.
I am an individual psychotherapist who has been practicing for over 30 years. Because of my extensive training I am equipped to treat numerous conditions. My areas of specialization focus on depression, Bipolar, anxiety, self-esteem, and problems originating in childhood. If you are facing any of these challenges then you have found the right therapist. Highly intuitive, gentle, curious and a good listener, I value a stance which is open-minded and non-judgmental. I provide a calming and affirming environment in which you are free to share your issues and problems.
(646) 681-8736 View (646) 681-8736
Photo of Moya Sinclair in New York
Moya Sinclair
MS, MHC-LP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
New York, NY 10010  (Online Only)
I find myself drawn to working with people who struggle with work-life balance, poor time management skills, and those living with bipolar disorder and ADHD. I excel in making others realize that they have something special to offer, so that is my main goal with each of my clients. By working together to set and work towards your goals, we will be able to create healthy ways of navigating life's challenges and help you discover your hidden potential!
I find myself drawn to working with people who struggle with work-life balance, poor time management skills, and those living with bipolar disorder and ADHD. I excel in making others realize that they have something special to offer, so that is my main goal with each of my clients. By working together to set and work towards your goals, we will be able to create healthy ways of navigating life's challenges and help you discover your hidden potential!
(914) 690-7402 View (914) 690-7402
Photo of Aaron Tropper, Psychologist in New York
Aaron Tropper
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cedarhurst, NY 11516
I earned my PhD at Hofstra University, completed my doctoral internship at the JJ Peters VA Medical Center, and completed my post-doctoral fellowship at the Northwell Health OCD and Bipolar Centers.
I specialize in the treatment of OCD-related disorders and anxiety disorders. Living with anxiety can feel overwhelming, so congratulations on taking the first steps towards getting help! My practice involves evidence-based psychotherapies that are time limited and goal directed. I provide Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Exposure/Response Prevention, and Acceptance & Commitment Therapy. My goal is to help clients learn the skills they need to confront and overcome their fears, so they can live fuller and more meaningful lives.
I earned my PhD at Hofstra University, completed my doctoral internship at the JJ Peters VA Medical Center, and completed my post-doctoral fellowship at the Northwell Health OCD and Bipolar Centers.
I specialize in the treatment of OCD-related disorders and anxiety disorders. Living with anxiety can feel overwhelming, so congratulations on taking the first steps towards getting help! My practice involves evidence-based psychotherapies that are time limited and goal directed. I provide Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Exposure/Response Prevention, and Acceptance & Commitment Therapy. My goal is to help clients learn the skills they need to confront and overcome their fears, so they can live fuller and more meaningful lives.
(516) 853-0225 View (516) 853-0225
Photo of Li Faustino, Psychologist in New York
Li Faustino
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
New York, NY 10016
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist specializing in bipolar disorder and their caregivers, depression and anxiety, and trauma. I also have extensive experience working with academic and work stress, relationship and marriage problems, and substance abuse. In my work I incorporate issues of attachment and parenting, femininity/masculinity, identity and self-esteem, LGBT concerns and the contexts of culture and religion.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist specializing in bipolar disorder and their caregivers, depression and anxiety, and trauma. I also have extensive experience working with academic and work stress, relationship and marriage problems, and substance abuse. In my work I incorporate issues of attachment and parenting, femininity/masculinity, identity and self-esteem, LGBT concerns and the contexts of culture and religion.
(646) 736-6523 x345 View (646) 736-6523 x345
Photo of Jennifer J Corona, Counselor in New York
Jennifer J Corona
Counselor, MA, NBCC, LMHC, CASAC
Verified Verified
Schenectady, NY 12303  (Online Only)
I specialize in helping individuals who struggle with anxiety, depression, bipolar, and trauma/PTSD.
Everyone is the author of their own stories, and I am simply a guide. We are all human and capable of change. This will be a safe space for you to share and explore. Upon identifying problems that are causing distress in your life, together WE will develop a plan to alleviate negative symptoms and develop healthy coping mechanisms. I will provide psychoeducation in order for you to gain insight and an understanding of your mental health. You will learn to reframe dysfunctional thought patterns in order to change unwanted behavior(s). You will walk away with a deeper sense of self and skills to live your best life possible.
I specialize in helping individuals who struggle with anxiety, depression, bipolar, and trauma/PTSD.
Everyone is the author of their own stories, and I am simply a guide. We are all human and capable of change. This will be a safe space for you to share and explore. Upon identifying problems that are causing distress in your life, together WE will develop a plan to alleviate negative symptoms and develop healthy coping mechanisms. I will provide psychoeducation in order for you to gain insight and an understanding of your mental health. You will learn to reframe dysfunctional thought patterns in order to change unwanted behavior(s). You will walk away with a deeper sense of self and skills to live your best life possible.
(518) 674-9017 View (518) 674-9017
Photo of Alia Healy Cross, Counselor in New York
Alia Healy Cross
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Buffalo, NY 14216
Due to licensing rules, I can only see New York clients! I am empathetic when working with diverse, adult populations facing situational & mental health challenges. I've been on both sides of "the therapy couch" as a Survivor with Bipolar I Disorder & as a counselor. I completed my internship assisting Survivors of Domestic Violence & have a great deal of knowledge about Healthy Relationships vs Unhealthy ones. I'm comfortable helping folks facing anxiety, depression, psychosis & trauma. I can assist in clarifying achievable goals & I can build trust. It's an honor to be able to help others navigate the curveballs life will throw!
Due to licensing rules, I can only see New York clients! I am empathetic when working with diverse, adult populations facing situational & mental health challenges. I've been on both sides of "the therapy couch" as a Survivor with Bipolar I Disorder & as a counselor. I completed my internship assisting Survivors of Domestic Violence & have a great deal of knowledge about Healthy Relationships vs Unhealthy ones. I'm comfortable helping folks facing anxiety, depression, psychosis & trauma. I can assist in clarifying achievable goals & I can build trust. It's an honor to be able to help others navigate the curveballs life will throw!
(716) 458-7887 View (716) 458-7887
Photo of Maya Novok, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
Maya Novok
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Commack, NY 11725  (Online Only)
When the last time someone really listened to you? When was the last time you truly felt understood? If you're struggling to put your needs first, I can be your guide to help you navigate through your feelings and thoughts. With 16 years of counseling experience, I specialize in treating individuals, couples and families that struggle with Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Past Trauma, Relationships, Intimacy Issues, Sexuality, and Stress with the compassion and dignity they deserve.
When the last time someone really listened to you? When was the last time you truly felt understood? If you're struggling to put your needs first, I can be your guide to help you navigate through your feelings and thoughts. With 16 years of counseling experience, I specialize in treating individuals, couples and families that struggle with Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Past Trauma, Relationships, Intimacy Issues, Sexuality, and Stress with the compassion and dignity they deserve.
(631) 817-4090 View (631) 817-4090
Photo of David F Wilson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
David F Wilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Staten Island, NY 10305
Let me help you overcome: anxiety and stress; depression and sadness, schizophrenia or mood disorders such as bipolar disorder.
Welcome! I exclusively do home visits on Staten Island. I am committed to your healing and future success. Let me help you to: Increase happiness and enjoyment in your life; decrease your suffering and become a better you; move from a position of mental illness to one of health and wellness; rid yourself of fear and anger. My goal is for you to feel strengthened and to discover new potentials for restoration, progress and transformation. Please check out my website! As an out of network provider I work for you. Expect to get 60 to 90% back from payment. I am also now a Medicare Provider, meaning I accept Medicare as payment.
Let me help you overcome: anxiety and stress; depression and sadness, schizophrenia or mood disorders such as bipolar disorder.
Welcome! I exclusively do home visits on Staten Island. I am committed to your healing and future success. Let me help you to: Increase happiness and enjoyment in your life; decrease your suffering and become a better you; move from a position of mental illness to one of health and wellness; rid yourself of fear and anger. My goal is for you to feel strengthened and to discover new potentials for restoration, progress and transformation. Please check out my website! As an out of network provider I work for you. Expect to get 60 to 90% back from payment. I am also now a Medicare Provider, meaning I accept Medicare as payment.
(844) 811-4461 View (844) 811-4461
Photo of Hillary Glick, Psychologist in New York
Hillary Glick
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11233
If you suffer from depression/bipolar disorder, trauma history, or bad relationships you know how tough emotional pain is.
Trust and a sense of safety are necessary foundations for successful therapy. Yet they don't come automatically. They have to be built and earned over time. I respect the tremendous courage it takes to face up to deeply buried or avoided thoughts and feelings. I work best with people who take their therapy seriously and are curious about finding new ways of thinking about themselves and others in their lives. I use insight oriented therapies as well as mindfulness to help us stay in the moment. My approach is tailored individually to your needs. Recently I added EMDR and some IFS to my work.
If you suffer from depression/bipolar disorder, trauma history, or bad relationships you know how tough emotional pain is.
Trust and a sense of safety are necessary foundations for successful therapy. Yet they don't come automatically. They have to be built and earned over time. I respect the tremendous courage it takes to face up to deeply buried or avoided thoughts and feelings. I work best with people who take their therapy seriously and are curious about finding new ways of thinking about themselves and others in their lives. I use insight oriented therapies as well as mindfulness to help us stay in the moment. My approach is tailored individually to your needs. Recently I added EMDR and some IFS to my work.
(646) 386-2213 View (646) 386-2213
Photo of Brian Quinn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
Brian Quinn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Melville, NY 11747
Learn about the science showing why those with bipolar illness may not get better with antidepressants.
Are you still depressed even though you have tried several antidepressants? Are you worried about a son or daughter who is on antidepressant medication, abusing alcohol or drugs, and is not getting better? Call me. I have been helping people with depression, bipolar illness, and alcohol/drug abuse for over four decades. You might want to take a look at my books on Amazon: The Depression Sourcebook and the Wiley Concise Guides to Mental Health: Bipolar Illness.
Learn about the science showing why those with bipolar illness may not get better with antidepressants.
Are you still depressed even though you have tried several antidepressants? Are you worried about a son or daughter who is on antidepressant medication, abusing alcohol or drugs, and is not getting better? Call me. I have been helping people with depression, bipolar illness, and alcohol/drug abuse for over four decades. You might want to take a look at my books on Amazon: The Depression Sourcebook and the Wiley Concise Guides to Mental Health: Bipolar Illness.
(631) 683-3167 View (631) 683-3167
Photo of Steve R Antoine, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
Steve R Antoine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hollis, NY 11423  (Online Only)
I have been trained in Structural Family Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT for Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder and CBT for Couples).
I hope to contribute compassion to the recovery of people living productive lives but needing assistance managing mental health needs, interacting with others or navigating the behavioral health system. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over ten years of experience and engagement expertise in working collaboratively with diverse populations, families, groups, and individuals.
I have been trained in Structural Family Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT for Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder and CBT for Couples).
I hope to contribute compassion to the recovery of people living productive lives but needing assistance managing mental health needs, interacting with others or navigating the behavioral health system. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over ten years of experience and engagement expertise in working collaboratively with diverse populations, families, groups, and individuals.
(516) 271-3143 View (516) 271-3143
Photo of Stephanie Klehr, Counselor in New York
Stephanie Klehr
Counselor, LMHC, CASAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rochester, NY 14618
Waitlist for new clients
Some areas I specialize in are coping skill development, adjustment disorders, bipolar disorder, boundary setting, acceptance and commitment, distress tolerance, effective communication skills, safety planning and anger management.
Therapy can be a supportive way to navigate life changes and find hope in moving forward. I can certainly assist you in identifying and managing the symptoms that might be causing you some stress (ex: racing thoughts, not feeling like yourself, sadness, guilt, fear, or worry).
Some areas I specialize in are coping skill development, adjustment disorders, bipolar disorder, boundary setting, acceptance and commitment, distress tolerance, effective communication skills, safety planning and anger management.
Therapy can be a supportive way to navigate life changes and find hope in moving forward. I can certainly assist you in identifying and managing the symptoms that might be causing you some stress (ex: racing thoughts, not feeling like yourself, sadness, guilt, fear, or worry).
(585) 536-1626 View (585) 536-1626
Photo of Fajir Alattar in New York
Fajir Alattar
LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11209  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, or adjustment disorders? Feeling adrift without adequate support while confronting these challenges can be a daunting experience. But you no longer need to weather this storm alone. Together we can forge a path forward and discover possibilities of healing and resilience.
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, or adjustment disorders? Feeling adrift without adequate support while confronting these challenges can be a daunting experience. But you no longer need to weather this storm alone. Together we can forge a path forward and discover possibilities of healing and resilience.
(718) 568-5735 View (718) 568-5735
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.