Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Juniata County, PA

Photo of Michael Raskind, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Juniata County, PA
Michael Raskind
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mifflin, PA 17058  (Online Only)
Getting to the root of your pain, learning to deal with it, building upon your strengths then learning to act versus react to people and events is the goal of our approach. We have a long history of working with diverse populations, who have developed varied problems: Mental Health, Substance Abuse, Marital, Parenting, Occupational, grief and more Our approach is to work with your strengths; help you to develop new views and skills and then organize them into a plan that works in obtaining your goals. As a psychotherapy group practice, we can see just about anyone no matter what you're dealing with.
Getting to the root of your pain, learning to deal with it, building upon your strengths then learning to act versus react to people and events is the goal of our approach. We have a long history of working with diverse populations, who have developed varied problems: Mental Health, Substance Abuse, Marital, Parenting, Occupational, grief and more Our approach is to work with your strengths; help you to develop new views and skills and then organize them into a plan that works in obtaining your goals. As a psychotherapy group practice, we can see just about anyone no matter what you're dealing with.
(717) 807-5614 View (717) 807-5614
Photo of Two Trails Mental Health & Wellness Center, LLC. in Juniata County, PA
Two Trails Mental Health & Wellness Center, LLC.
PsyD
Verified Verified
Richfield, PA 17086
Let Two Trails Mental Health and Wellness Center provide the support and direction you are seeking. Our clinicians are here to help you with difficult life changes and to offer you support during the healing process. We can help you to feel better about yourself by helping you gain a sense of control over your moods and emotions, by helping you gain more satisfaction in your personal relationships and by helping you to overcome obstacles that may be interfering with your ability to achieve life goals. We will keep your concerns private and confidential.
Let Two Trails Mental Health and Wellness Center provide the support and direction you are seeking. Our clinicians are here to help you with difficult life changes and to offer you support during the healing process. We can help you to feel better about yourself by helping you gain a sense of control over your moods and emotions, by helping you gain more satisfaction in your personal relationships and by helping you to overcome obstacles that may be interfering with your ability to achieve life goals. We will keep your concerns private and confidential.
(717) 778-3250 View (717) 778-3250
Photo of Fred Benner, Licensed Professional Counselor in Juniata County, PA
Fred Benner
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC, CAADC, SAP
Verified Verified
Mifflintown, PA 17059
I am accepting Face-2-Face AND telehealth clients. I am equipped to provide HIPAA compliant telehealth services by voice or video. This has now been approved by all insurance carriers, and is an option which extends flexibility, but our office is also open . I have broad experience in working with mood and anxiety disorders, trauma, substance use disorders, and families struggling with addiction. I also help those with problems caused by alcohol or drugs, couples trying to save a relationship. and those in child custody disputes because of divorce or separation. I also help with process addictions like gambling and pornography.
I am accepting Face-2-Face AND telehealth clients. I am equipped to provide HIPAA compliant telehealth services by voice or video. This has now been approved by all insurance carriers, and is an option which extends flexibility, but our office is also open . I have broad experience in working with mood and anxiety disorders, trauma, substance use disorders, and families struggling with addiction. I also help those with problems caused by alcohol or drugs, couples trying to save a relationship. and those in child custody disputes because of divorce or separation. I also help with process addictions like gambling and pornography.
(717) 320-2303 View (717) 320-2303
Photo of Sherrie-An E Gerhart, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Juniata County, PA
Sherrie-An E Gerhart
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CDBT
Verified Verified
Mifflintown, PA 17059  (Online Only)
Have you ever felt overwhelmed by your emotions or you don't know what you're feeling at all? Do you feel as though people are taking advantage of you or you don't know who you are anymore? You're not alone, this is very common. I will partner with you and help you to identify not only what you're feeling, but also how to cope with those feelings so you can feel more empowered to navigate your life more effectively. I can also help you to find your voice, so you can connect with who you are and to begin to assert clear boundaries with others.
Have you ever felt overwhelmed by your emotions or you don't know what you're feeling at all? Do you feel as though people are taking advantage of you or you don't know who you are anymore? You're not alone, this is very common. I will partner with you and help you to identify not only what you're feeling, but also how to cope with those feelings so you can feel more empowered to navigate your life more effectively. I can also help you to find your voice, so you can connect with who you are and to begin to assert clear boundaries with others.
(717) 940-3853 View (717) 940-3853

Online Therapists

Photo of Logan Day, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Juniata County, PA
Logan Day
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bird In Hand, PA 17505  (Online Only)
I have experience with co-occurring disorders such as depression, anxiety, bipolar and other mood disorders.
I love working with all ages. I especially enjoy working with teens to navigate the transitional period of life! I utilize both a person-centered and trauma-informed approach to ensure that my client feels autonomy as well as authenticity throughout our time together.
I have experience with co-occurring disorders such as depression, anxiety, bipolar and other mood disorders.
I love working with all ages. I especially enjoy working with teens to navigate the transitional period of life! I utilize both a person-centered and trauma-informed approach to ensure that my client feels autonomy as well as authenticity throughout our time together.
(717) 794-8443 View (717) 794-8443
Photo of Cheryl L Seybolt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Juniata County, PA
Cheryl L Seybolt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Allentown, PA 18106
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 20 years of experience working with adults, couples, families, children and adolescents who are seeking assistance in coping with issues of anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, PTSD, and self-esteem issues.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 20 years of experience working with adults, couples, families, children and adolescents who are seeking assistance in coping with issues of anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, PTSD, and self-esteem issues.
(610) 795-9122 View (610) 795-9122
Photo of TriCounty Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Juniata County, PA
TriCounty Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC, CSP
Verified Verified
Morgantown, PA 19543
Children, Adolecents, and Adults: ADHD, ADD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and OCD.
Thank you for considering my professional counseling services. No matter what has brought you here today, you have just taken your first step toward a successful change in your life. If you are suffering from a divorce, illness or loss, depression, anxiety, ADD, developmental issues, anger, or a disruption or transition in your life or your child's life; allow me to help you. As a therapist, I will utilize a warm, confidential, non-judgemental approach to assisting you with your issue. I enjoy helping children, adolescents and adults understand and cope with their issues. Together, we find solutions so you can meet your goals.
Children, Adolecents, and Adults: ADHD, ADD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and OCD.
Thank you for considering my professional counseling services. No matter what has brought you here today, you have just taken your first step toward a successful change in your life. If you are suffering from a divorce, illness or loss, depression, anxiety, ADD, developmental issues, anger, or a disruption or transition in your life or your child's life; allow me to help you. As a therapist, I will utilize a warm, confidential, non-judgemental approach to assisting you with your issue. I enjoy helping children, adolescents and adults understand and cope with their issues. Together, we find solutions so you can meet your goals.
(484) 271-6738 View (484) 271-6738
Photo of Soul Compass Counseling/Marisa Schuster, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Juniata County, PA
Soul Compass Counseling/Marisa Schuster, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, BC-TMH, CGP, CFRC
Verified Verified
Johnstown, PA 15905
I have worked in mental health for over 17 years and have experience with various mental health issues including: PTSD, anxiety, depression, phobias, addictions, conflict resolution, suicidal and homicidal thoughts, self harm/cutting, anger management, schizophrenia, bipolar, relationship issues and grief.
Hi! Thank you for clicking my profile. Are you stressed and not sure how to handle it? Are you coping with grief ? Do you need support and motivation to meet your goals? Life can be overwhelming at times. I'd like to help you identify your stressors and help bring more calm and happiness back into your life. I offer a safe environment to help support you on your path. If you find yourself repeating the same patterns, call me. What do you have to lose? Too busy to meet in person? I also offer online counseling services. Call or email me for more information.
I have worked in mental health for over 17 years and have experience with various mental health issues including: PTSD, anxiety, depression, phobias, addictions, conflict resolution, suicidal and homicidal thoughts, self harm/cutting, anger management, schizophrenia, bipolar, relationship issues and grief.
Hi! Thank you for clicking my profile. Are you stressed and not sure how to handle it? Are you coping with grief ? Do you need support and motivation to meet your goals? Life can be overwhelming at times. I'd like to help you identify your stressors and help bring more calm and happiness back into your life. I offer a safe environment to help support you on your path. If you find yourself repeating the same patterns, call me. What do you have to lose? Too busy to meet in person? I also offer online counseling services. Call or email me for more information.
(814) 675-0372 View (814) 675-0372
Photo of Christine Fellin Smith, Licensed Professional Counselor in Juniata County, PA
Christine Fellin Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Allentown, PA 18104
Waitlist for new clients
I believe in focusing on the strengths an individual has and using them as a platform to improve and address their struggles. I offer a warm, inviting, and relaxed therapeutic environment and strongly believe that a positive client/counselor relationship is important to successful treatment. I have experience working with children, teens, and adults with a variety of diagnoses and struggles including depression, anxiety, low self esteem, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, parenting skills, grief and loss, Bipolar Disorder, life changes, anger management, PTSD, LGBTQAI+ concerns, and more.
I believe in focusing on the strengths an individual has and using them as a platform to improve and address their struggles. I offer a warm, inviting, and relaxed therapeutic environment and strongly believe that a positive client/counselor relationship is important to successful treatment. I have experience working with children, teens, and adults with a variety of diagnoses and struggles including depression, anxiety, low self esteem, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, parenting skills, grief and loss, Bipolar Disorder, life changes, anger management, PTSD, LGBTQAI+ concerns, and more.
(484) 646-2172 View (484) 646-2172
Photo of Jaclyn Conrad, Licensed Professional Counselor in Juniata County, PA
Jaclyn Conrad
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Malvern, PA 19355  (Online Only)
I am a Board-certified Licensed Professional Counselor with a master's degree in clinical mental health counseling. I specialize in providing individual therapy to adults dealing with anxiety, eating disorders, addiction, stress, depression, bipolar disorder, trauma, difficult life transitions, relationship issues, and LGBTQIA+ issues. I approach therapy from a Person-Centered perspective and utilize interventions primarily based in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy while integrating additional evidence-based treatment interventions and techniques best suited for each client and their particular problem.
I am a Board-certified Licensed Professional Counselor with a master's degree in clinical mental health counseling. I specialize in providing individual therapy to adults dealing with anxiety, eating disorders, addiction, stress, depression, bipolar disorder, trauma, difficult life transitions, relationship issues, and LGBTQIA+ issues. I approach therapy from a Person-Centered perspective and utilize interventions primarily based in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy while integrating additional evidence-based treatment interventions and techniques best suited for each client and their particular problem.
(412) 561-9918 View (412) 561-9918
Photo of Walka Estevez, Licensed Professional Counselor in Juniata County, PA
Walka Estevez
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Allentown, PA 18104  (Online Only)
Walka Estevez is a bilingual (Spanish, English) therapist with over 12 years of experience in the field working with adolescents, adults (female, male), providing them individual, family and group therapy. Walka is specializes in depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, grief, oppositional and defiant behavior.
Walka Estevez is a bilingual (Spanish, English) therapist with over 12 years of experience in the field working with adolescents, adults (female, male), providing them individual, family and group therapy. Walka is specializes in depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, grief, oppositional and defiant behavior.
(610) 756-9561 View (610) 756-9561
Photo of Elle Schwan Avery, Licensed Professional Counselor in Juniata County, PA
Elle Schwan Avery
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Allentown, PA 18104  (Online Only)
I have worked with clients on a variety of issues such as anxiety, depression, ADD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, etc.
After over 20 years of experience working with clients, I have come to view myself as my clients' guide through the emotional landscape of their lives. I am dedicated to providing my clients with a comfortable, safe, non-judgmental, therapeutic environment in which they can explore their thoughts, feelings and behaviors. Together we form a partnership to determine the direction required for a client's healing, healthy emotional growth, and successful life functioning. Client's value my down to earth and easy to talk to style, free of intimidation and judgment.
I have worked with clients on a variety of issues such as anxiety, depression, ADD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, etc.
After over 20 years of experience working with clients, I have come to view myself as my clients' guide through the emotional landscape of their lives. I am dedicated to providing my clients with a comfortable, safe, non-judgmental, therapeutic environment in which they can explore their thoughts, feelings and behaviors. Together we form a partnership to determine the direction required for a client's healing, healthy emotional growth, and successful life functioning. Client's value my down to earth and easy to talk to style, free of intimidation and judgment.
(610) 810-1870 View (610) 810-1870
Photo of Sharon Kelly, Psychologist in Juniata County, PA
Sharon Kelly
Psychologist, PsyD, MBA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Elverson, PA 19520
Kelly is specialized in treating transitions, trauma, anxiety, depression, personality disorders, bipolar, anger/behavioral issues, etc.
In person and remote available. Therapy supports positive, healthy personal changes, improvement of anxiety and depression, and progress toward desired goals. Therapy helps clients improve relationships, cope with negative people or influences in their lives, and develop responsible, confident self-images. Individual Therapy, Couples or Co-Parenting Counseling and Life Coaching are available for all ages and backgrounds. The Gay St office is in the center of West Chester, near WCU and directly behind/adjacent to the Justice Center. St Peter’s office is situated along French Creek in historic St Peter's Village.
Kelly is specialized in treating transitions, trauma, anxiety, depression, personality disorders, bipolar, anger/behavioral issues, etc.
In person and remote available. Therapy supports positive, healthy personal changes, improvement of anxiety and depression, and progress toward desired goals. Therapy helps clients improve relationships, cope with negative people or influences in their lives, and develop responsible, confident self-images. Individual Therapy, Couples or Co-Parenting Counseling and Life Coaching are available for all ages and backgrounds. The Gay St office is in the center of West Chester, near WCU and directly behind/adjacent to the Justice Center. St Peter’s office is situated along French Creek in historic St Peter's Village.
(484) 602-2892 View (484) 602-2892
Photo of Jorge Adalberto Acosta, Licensed Professional Counselor in Juniata County, PA
Jorge Adalberto Acosta
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Allentown, PA 18106  (Online Only)
Areas of clinical focus include: Depressive Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Bipolar Disorders, Couple and Family Therapy, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, Self-Esteem Issues, Personality Disorders, ADHD, ODD, Anger .
In his practice, Dr. Acosta uses different approaches with the purpose of promoting a therapeutic experience focused on favoring the awareness of the people he serves about their own needs and potentials.
Areas of clinical focus include: Depressive Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Bipolar Disorders, Couple and Family Therapy, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, Self-Esteem Issues, Personality Disorders, ADHD, ODD, Anger .
In his practice, Dr. Acosta uses different approaches with the purpose of promoting a therapeutic experience focused on favoring the awareness of the people he serves about their own needs and potentials.
(610) 510-2395 View (610) 510-2395
Photo of Benjamin Lasner, Licensed Professional Counselor in Juniata County, PA
Benjamin Lasner
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NBCC, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Specialties include anxiety, depression, anger management, stress, work issues, LGBTQIA+, intergenerational trauma, ADHD, bipolar, and motivation.
Benjamin (pronounced Ben-ya-meen) Lasner, LPC, NBCC, M.S.. He is compassionate, open, and committed to creating a therapeutic relationship where everyone feels safe and respected. Benjamin understands and values the perspectives of both sides of the therapeutic relationship and firmly believes that two individuals sitting in a room, and having a conversation, is one of the most powerful, healing events that can occur. Benjamin strives to make the therapeutic environment welcoming, giving you his full focus and attention. It is important to meet each client where they are in order to help them achieve their goals.
Specialties include anxiety, depression, anger management, stress, work issues, LGBTQIA+, intergenerational trauma, ADHD, bipolar, and motivation.
Benjamin (pronounced Ben-ya-meen) Lasner, LPC, NBCC, M.S.. He is compassionate, open, and committed to creating a therapeutic relationship where everyone feels safe and respected. Benjamin understands and values the perspectives of both sides of the therapeutic relationship and firmly believes that two individuals sitting in a room, and having a conversation, is one of the most powerful, healing events that can occur. Benjamin strives to make the therapeutic environment welcoming, giving you his full focus and attention. It is important to meet each client where they are in order to help them achieve their goals.
(610) 686-7502 View (610) 686-7502
Photo of Cassidy Dorson, Pre-Licensed Professional in Juniata County, PA
Cassidy Dorson
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Wilkes Barre, PA 18701  (Online Only)
I believe anyone can change their life with the right mindset and tools. We are all in control of our own destinies, and it is my passion to help people discover their own power. I have worked in various settings and roles including an inpatient crisis hospital, outpatient substance use treatment center, college counseling center, therapeutic support staff in schools, mobile therapist, and behavioral consultant. I have worked with people struggling with trauma, schizophrenia, substance use, psychosis, depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, domestic violence, self-esteem issues, and a few others.
I believe anyone can change their life with the right mindset and tools. We are all in control of our own destinies, and it is my passion to help people discover their own power. I have worked in various settings and roles including an inpatient crisis hospital, outpatient substance use treatment center, college counseling center, therapeutic support staff in schools, mobile therapist, and behavioral consultant. I have worked with people struggling with trauma, schizophrenia, substance use, psychosis, depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, domestic violence, self-esteem issues, and a few others.
(570) 468-6200 View (570) 468-6200
Photo of Lauren Scipioni, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Juniata County, PA
Lauren Scipioni
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palmyra, PA 17078  (Online Only)
I specialize in depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder as well as relationship and self-esteem issues.
Hello, my name is Lauren, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is excited to start working with you! If you are someone who is looking to find the best version of yourself, I am here to help. Life is full of challenges, and sometimes it can feel impossible to navigate on your own. Let me walk with you, and carry some of the weight as we create and achieve your goals. I am here to explore, empower and find solutions while meeting you where you are.
I specialize in depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder as well as relationship and self-esteem issues.
Hello, my name is Lauren, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is excited to start working with you! If you are someone who is looking to find the best version of yourself, I am here to help. Life is full of challenges, and sometimes it can feel impossible to navigate on your own. Let me walk with you, and carry some of the weight as we create and achieve your goals. I am here to explore, empower and find solutions while meeting you where you are.
(223) 217-8817 View (223) 217-8817
Photo of Diane Edmond Therapy and LPC Supervsion, Licensed Professional Counselor in Juniata County, PA
Diane Edmond Therapy and LPC Supervsion
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CAADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrisburg, PA 17110
Waitlist for new clients
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety or bipolar disorder? Are you coping with the aftermath of trauma, abuse or effects of active military experience? Are you or a family member using drugs or alcohol to self-medicate? My clinical experience includes over 25 years in the field working in a variety of settings including inpatient and outpatient substance abuse, outpatient mental health , and working with children in foster care. I have an eclectic approach with a emphasis on cognitive therapy. I have an advanced certification in addictions and extensive work with trauma including EMDR.
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety or bipolar disorder? Are you coping with the aftermath of trauma, abuse or effects of active military experience? Are you or a family member using drugs or alcohol to self-medicate? My clinical experience includes over 25 years in the field working in a variety of settings including inpatient and outpatient substance abuse, outpatient mental health , and working with children in foster care. I have an eclectic approach with a emphasis on cognitive therapy. I have an advanced certification in addictions and extensive work with trauma including EMDR.
(717) 454-2377 View (717) 454-2377
Photo of Taryn Tross, Pre-Licensed Professional in Juniata County, PA
Taryn Tross
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Allentown, PA 18106
I’m a Masters level clinician with expertise in working with adolescents, adults, and couples. I have experience in treating and working with mental health diagnoses such as Depression, Anxiety, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and specializing in substance use disorders and substance use related issues. I also have experience working with people with developmental and intellectual disabilities with comorbid mental health diagnoses.
I’m a Masters level clinician with expertise in working with adolescents, adults, and couples. I have experience in treating and working with mental health diagnoses such as Depression, Anxiety, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and specializing in substance use disorders and substance use related issues. I also have experience working with people with developmental and intellectual disabilities with comorbid mental health diagnoses.
(610) 890-3785 x1 View (610) 890-3785 x1
Photo of Katelynn Bender-Hubbard, Licensed Professional Counselor in Juniata County, PA
Katelynn Bender-Hubbard
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellefonte, PA 16823
Are you struggling to adjust to college, a job or another life event? Are you feeling stressed, overwhelmed or burned out? Do you have a history of mental health concerns such as bipolar disorder, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, dissociation or low self-worth? You are not alone. I strive to provide an unconditionally accepting environment where you will feel free and comfortable to be yourself while supporting you to overcome the obstacles you experience.
Are you struggling to adjust to college, a job or another life event? Are you feeling stressed, overwhelmed or burned out? Do you have a history of mental health concerns such as bipolar disorder, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, dissociation or low self-worth? You are not alone. I strive to provide an unconditionally accepting environment where you will feel free and comfortable to be yourself while supporting you to overcome the obstacles you experience.
(814) 318-8513 View (814) 318-8513

See more therapy options for Juniata County

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.