Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Pittsburgh, PA

Photo of James W Ellermeyer, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
James W Ellermeyer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
Using a mindfulness-based cognitive approach, I help people deal with self-concept, self-esteem, identity formation and develop the ability to make conscious choices. I deal with bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, anxiety, and depression. I have been successful with my own full impact mindfulness technique in dealing with disassociation and psychosis, PTSD and trauma.
Using a mindfulness-based cognitive approach, I help people deal with self-concept, self-esteem, identity formation and develop the ability to make conscious choices. I deal with bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, anxiety, and depression. I have been successful with my own full impact mindfulness technique in dealing with disassociation and psychosis, PTSD and trauma.
(412) 419-0972 View (412) 419-0972
Photo of Megan Herman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Megan Herman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15238
I have been working in mental health since 2011, with significant experience supervising a multi-disciplinary mental health community treatment team serving adults with bipolar and psychosis related disorders as well as offering support to families.
Accepting NEW clients! Hi! My name is Megan. I am a 40-something working mother of two, and I have been a licensed psychotherapist since 2014. I am passionate about helping others live their lives in fulfilling and meaningful ways, based on their personal values and needs. I am the sole owner of CAYA Counseling Services (CAYA stands for Come As You Are). I deeply believe in finding your authentic, true self and feeling good in your own skin. Sometimes therapy can help with solving a problem, making change or simply gaining insight into the self. Treatment goals are client driven and success is measured by you.
I have been working in mental health since 2011, with significant experience supervising a multi-disciplinary mental health community treatment team serving adults with bipolar and psychosis related disorders as well as offering support to families.
Accepting NEW clients! Hi! My name is Megan. I am a 40-something working mother of two, and I have been a licensed psychotherapist since 2014. I am passionate about helping others live their lives in fulfilling and meaningful ways, based on their personal values and needs. I am the sole owner of CAYA Counseling Services (CAYA stands for Come As You Are). I deeply believe in finding your authentic, true self and feeling good in your own skin. Sometimes therapy can help with solving a problem, making change or simply gaining insight into the self. Treatment goals are client driven and success is measured by you.
(412) 910-2396 View (412) 910-2396
Photo of Madison Dobas, Pre-Licensed Professional in Pittsburgh, PA
Madison Dobas
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15228
I am a pre-licensed, Master’s level therapist who works with adults struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, grief, trauma, addiction, and substance use. My goal is to help clients navigate their feelings and offer a path forward to healing.
I am a pre-licensed, Master’s level therapist who works with adults struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, grief, trauma, addiction, and substance use. My goal is to help clients navigate their feelings and offer a path forward to healing.
(412) 912-4796 View (412) 912-4796
Photo of Dr. Steven S Carter, Psychologist in Pittsburgh, PA
Dr. Steven S Carter
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
My name is Dr. Steven S. Carter. I am a research and clinical psychologist whose career began in The Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. My work involved the study of Anxiety, Depression and Bipolar Disorder. I have been trained in Interpersonal, Cognitive and Behavioral therapies. I am currently in private practice. I offer individual, couples and family therapy. Recently, I have been working with families to help them understand family members who do have a mood disorder. My approach is to listen and learn from you. I think this is the best way to build a trusting relationship between us.
My name is Dr. Steven S. Carter. I am a research and clinical psychologist whose career began in The Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. My work involved the study of Anxiety, Depression and Bipolar Disorder. I have been trained in Interpersonal, Cognitive and Behavioral therapies. I am currently in private practice. I offer individual, couples and family therapy. Recently, I have been working with families to help them understand family members who do have a mood disorder. My approach is to listen and learn from you. I think this is the best way to build a trusting relationship between us.
(412) 368-0482 View (412) 368-0482
Photo of Carolyn Weimer, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Carolyn Weimer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15222  (Online Only)
Struggling with trauma, PTSD, or bipolar disorder? Your mental health is my priority. You're seeking support to manage these conditions, improve your mental health, and find stability. I'm here to help you achieve your goals and lead a fulfilling life.
Struggling with trauma, PTSD, or bipolar disorder? Your mental health is my priority. You're seeking support to manage these conditions, improve your mental health, and find stability. I'm here to help you achieve your goals and lead a fulfilling life.
(412) 923-0121 View (412) 923-0121
Photo of Vincent A Pietropaoli, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Vincent A Pietropaoli
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPC, NCC, CTMH
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15210  (Online Only)
I have more than five years of counseling experience working with individuals of all ages and many presenting problems. I have the most extensive experience working with people with mood related problems (such as: anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and others) and those who have experienced traumatic events.
I have more than five years of counseling experience working with individuals of all ages and many presenting problems. I have the most extensive experience working with people with mood related problems (such as: anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and others) and those who have experienced traumatic events.
(878) 203-1183 View (878) 203-1183
Photo of Maddie Canel, Pre-Licensed Professional in Pittsburgh, PA
Maddie Canel
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15201
I have lived experience with neurodivergence, depression, anxiety, and being in a plus sized body. I have experience working with the above as well as clients with BPD, Bipolar 1 & 2, PTSD, and clients who just feel like they need a safe space to discuss day to day life stressors. I stress to my clients that therapy is for everyone and there is no such thing as a "trauma olympics" where something is better or worse than others! I work with clients age 6+.
I have lived experience with neurodivergence, depression, anxiety, and being in a plus sized body. I have experience working with the above as well as clients with BPD, Bipolar 1 & 2, PTSD, and clients who just feel like they need a safe space to discuss day to day life stressors. I stress to my clients that therapy is for everyone and there is no such thing as a "trauma olympics" where something is better or worse than others! I work with clients age 6+.
(412) 307-9823 View (412) 307-9823
Photo of Jon Weingarden, Psychologist in Pittsburgh, PA
Jon Weingarden
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15215
My practice serves the general population and I have specialized experience with bipolar disorder and eating disorders.
I am a Pittsburgher and I'm proud to practice psychology in my home community. My goal is to see each client as a person first, and provide individualized healthcare. I see therapy as collaborative, and including both skill-building and self-exploration. In terms of self-exploration, I see the client as the expert in their own life, while a therapist is attuned to noticing themes or patterns that the client would have otherwise missed or avoided.
My practice serves the general population and I have specialized experience with bipolar disorder and eating disorders.
I am a Pittsburgher and I'm proud to practice psychology in my home community. My goal is to see each client as a person first, and provide individualized healthcare. I see therapy as collaborative, and including both skill-building and self-exploration. In terms of self-exploration, I see the client as the expert in their own life, while a therapist is attuned to noticing themes or patterns that the client would have otherwise missed or avoided.
(412) 207-3477 View (412) 207-3477
Photo of Cheri Allyson Fingeret, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Cheri Allyson Fingeret
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15241  (Online Only)
From early in my career I have been drawn to individuals with depression, anxiety, bipolar, and PTSD.
NOT accepting new clients until September. All sessions will take place on a HIPAA compliant video platform and will be conducted on my end from a secure location. All insurance companies are allowing video sessions. Copays, co-insurance and deductibles apply.
From early in my career I have been drawn to individuals with depression, anxiety, bipolar, and PTSD.
NOT accepting new clients until September. All sessions will take place on a HIPAA compliant video platform and will be conducted on my end from a secure location. All insurance companies are allowing video sessions. Copays, co-insurance and deductibles apply.
(412) 357-1223 View (412) 357-1223
Photo of Chris Friend, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Chris Friend
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15224  (Online Only)
In addition to anxiety and depression, I also work with people who struggle from symptoms of PTSD, BPD, and bipolar disorder.
Hi ya’ll, I’m Chris. The state of the world and our own well-being can often feel very fragile, especially after these last few years. Through counseling I am able to provide an outlet for processing your emotions and actions and finding a way to unstick yourself when you don’t like where you are. Therapy can be a frightening step for many, but I hope to make your journey to a healthier mindset as comfortable and rewarding as possible. My clinical experience and education are focused on working with those who struggle with severe depression and anxiety.
In addition to anxiety and depression, I also work with people who struggle from symptoms of PTSD, BPD, and bipolar disorder.
Hi ya’ll, I’m Chris. The state of the world and our own well-being can often feel very fragile, especially after these last few years. Through counseling I am able to provide an outlet for processing your emotions and actions and finding a way to unstick yourself when you don’t like where you are. Therapy can be a frightening step for many, but I hope to make your journey to a healthier mindset as comfortable and rewarding as possible. My clinical experience and education are focused on working with those who struggle with severe depression and anxiety.
(412) 790-1466 View (412) 790-1466
Photo of Christy A Duffer, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Christy A Duffer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15236
Christy has significant experience working with ADHD, aggression, anxiety, depression, bipolar, gender and sexual identity, borderline personality disorder BPD, impulse-control issues, grief and loss, attachment related issues, peer and family issues, low self-esteem, trauma and PTSD (including sexual assault), self-harming, and suicidal ideations/attempts.
Christy ​graduated from Allegheny College with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology. She then went on to complete her Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Gannon University. Before moving to Pittsburgh, Christy previously worked in the highest level of care in the state for adolescents through the Enhanced Residential Units at Perseus House, in Erie, PA. While here, she has previously worked in school-based outpatient services in Pittsburgh Public School District and West Mifflin Area School District​, through Wesley Family Services and Family Behavioral Resources, respectively.
Christy has significant experience working with ADHD, aggression, anxiety, depression, bipolar, gender and sexual identity, borderline personality disorder BPD, impulse-control issues, grief and loss, attachment related issues, peer and family issues, low self-esteem, trauma and PTSD (including sexual assault), self-harming, and suicidal ideations/attempts.
Christy ​graduated from Allegheny College with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology. She then went on to complete her Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Gannon University. Before moving to Pittsburgh, Christy previously worked in the highest level of care in the state for adolescents through the Enhanced Residential Units at Perseus House, in Erie, PA. While here, she has previously worked in school-based outpatient services in Pittsburgh Public School District and West Mifflin Area School District​, through Wesley Family Services and Family Behavioral Resources, respectively.
(412) 267-7211 View (412) 267-7211
Photo of Victoria Minor, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Victoria Minor
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15236
I hope to use my counseling experience to help individuals who are struggling with their current life circumstances. I have experience in helping clients with adjustment concerns, stress and anxiety, relationship issues, depression, bipolar disorder, and trauma and abuse. I also have experience working with clients who have personality disorders such as Borderline Personality Disorder. I tailor every clients’ treatment plan to meet their unique and specific needs. My personality as a therapist has been described as being cheerful, friendly, patient, funny, and supportive.
I hope to use my counseling experience to help individuals who are struggling with their current life circumstances. I have experience in helping clients with adjustment concerns, stress and anxiety, relationship issues, depression, bipolar disorder, and trauma and abuse. I also have experience working with clients who have personality disorders such as Borderline Personality Disorder. I tailor every clients’ treatment plan to meet their unique and specific needs. My personality as a therapist has been described as being cheerful, friendly, patient, funny, and supportive.
(412) 530-4477 x127 View (412) 530-4477 x127
Photo of Ashley Mudrinich, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Ashley Mudrinich
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15206  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My expertise also extends to how to manage diagnosed disorders such as PTSD and bipolar disorder.
Congratulations on taking the first step towards improving your mental health. It is often not easy navigating the stages of finding a therapist, and I applaud you for finding the strength to make the leap. I am here to make that leap as comfortable as possible, in a way that is most suitable to your needs. I am a person-centered, strength-based, and humanistic therapist. I look to help solidify what is good in a person and identify what can be modified in order to make someone feel more whole. My approach is warm, non-judgmental and genuine. Feel free to visit www.ashleys-counseling.com for more information.
My expertise also extends to how to manage diagnosed disorders such as PTSD and bipolar disorder.
Congratulations on taking the first step towards improving your mental health. It is often not easy navigating the stages of finding a therapist, and I applaud you for finding the strength to make the leap. I am here to make that leap as comfortable as possible, in a way that is most suitable to your needs. I am a person-centered, strength-based, and humanistic therapist. I look to help solidify what is good in a person and identify what can be modified in order to make someone feel more whole. My approach is warm, non-judgmental and genuine. Feel free to visit www.ashleys-counseling.com for more information.
(412) 534-5661 View (412) 534-5661
Photo of Angela Mills, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Angela Mills
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
Angela has experience working with a wide range of clients; however, she has spent the past 6 years working with clients of all ages experiencing grief, anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolar, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and oppositional defiance disorder.
Angela Mills is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2010. She has a Bachelor's of Science from Penn State University and a Master's of Science in Counseling Psychology from Chatham University. Angela started in the mental health field 16 years ago. She decided she wanted to be a therapist in high school, when she experienced the loss of someone very close to her that changed how she looked at the world. Angela had a therapist at the time that helped her through that loss and had a huge impact on her life. That is when Angela knew she wanted to be a therapist.
Angela has experience working with a wide range of clients; however, she has spent the past 6 years working with clients of all ages experiencing grief, anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolar, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and oppositional defiance disorder.
Angela Mills is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2010. She has a Bachelor's of Science from Penn State University and a Master's of Science in Counseling Psychology from Chatham University. Angela started in the mental health field 16 years ago. She decided she wanted to be a therapist in high school, when she experienced the loss of someone very close to her that changed how she looked at the world. Angela had a therapist at the time that helped her through that loss and had a huge impact on her life. That is when Angela knew she wanted to be a therapist.
(844) 264-6945 View (844) 264-6945
Photo of Vanessa Neel, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Vanessa Neel
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15234
As a Licensed Professional Counselor it is my priority to help my clients identify what’s holding them back from making the changes they want to make and help them work towards their goals more effectively. I work with a variety of issues including but not limited to relationship issues, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, adjustment disorders, substance use disorders, and addiction. I use a collaborative, person-centered approach to counseling and strive to always create a safe space for self-exploration and understanding.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor it is my priority to help my clients identify what’s holding them back from making the changes they want to make and help them work towards their goals more effectively. I work with a variety of issues including but not limited to relationship issues, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, adjustment disorders, substance use disorders, and addiction. I use a collaborative, person-centered approach to counseling and strive to always create a safe space for self-exploration and understanding.
(412) 226-4995 View (412) 226-4995
Photo of Julia Longenecker, Psychologist in Pittsburgh, PA
Julia Longenecker
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15237  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT), and Interpersonal Social Rhythm Therapy (IPSRT) for depression, anxiety, grief, adjustment disorder/life transitions, bipolar disorder and psychosis/schizophrenia.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist whose practice is rooted in structured, time-limited therapy (often called evidence-based practice, or EBP) - delivering care that supports your goals, enhances your life, and builds skills to address symptom flare ups after therapy ends. I can see clients from over 30 states and DC so care disruptions will be minimized if you travel, move, or return home between semesters. Locations served are: AL, AZ, AR, CO, CT, DC, DE, GA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, ME, MD, MN, MO, NE, NC, NH, NJ, NV, OH, OK, PA, TN, TX, UT, VA, WA, WI, WV.
I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT), and Interpersonal Social Rhythm Therapy (IPSRT) for depression, anxiety, grief, adjustment disorder/life transitions, bipolar disorder and psychosis/schizophrenia.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist whose practice is rooted in structured, time-limited therapy (often called evidence-based practice, or EBP) - delivering care that supports your goals, enhances your life, and builds skills to address symptom flare ups after therapy ends. I can see clients from over 30 states and DC so care disruptions will be minimized if you travel, move, or return home between semesters. Locations served are: AL, AZ, AR, CO, CT, DC, DE, GA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, ME, MD, MN, MO, NE, NC, NH, NJ, NV, OH, OK, PA, TN, TX, UT, VA, WA, WI, WV.
(412) 838-3244 View (412) 838-3244
Photo of Todd Schachter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pittsburgh, PA
Todd Schachter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15237
I can treat anyone from 10 to 65, but specialize in treating children and adolescents with impulse control and attention deficit issues, child and adult autism , child and adult anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, school related phobias, unhealthy habits / addictions, anger management, trauma, and family conflict.
You do not need a diagnosis of ADHD, anxiety or depression to benefit from therapy. Life can be hard enough without barriers at every turn. Constant challenges within a child’s education system, adolescents unhealthy social media habits, difficult relationships, and even from time to time conflict within the family can cause stress. Stress can explode in detrimental ways and times when not fully treated. Together, we can help break down life’s barriers so you and your child can achieve their full potential.
I can treat anyone from 10 to 65, but specialize in treating children and adolescents with impulse control and attention deficit issues, child and adult autism , child and adult anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, school related phobias, unhealthy habits / addictions, anger management, trauma, and family conflict.
You do not need a diagnosis of ADHD, anxiety or depression to benefit from therapy. Life can be hard enough without barriers at every turn. Constant challenges within a child’s education system, adolescents unhealthy social media habits, difficult relationships, and even from time to time conflict within the family can cause stress. Stress can explode in detrimental ways and times when not fully treated. Together, we can help break down life’s barriers so you and your child can achieve their full potential.
(878) 645-3173 View (878) 645-3173
Photo of Brenda Slagle, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Brenda Slagle
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15222  (Online Only)
Brenda Slagle is a Nationally Board Certified Counselor (NCC) and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Pennsylvania with over 6 years of experience. Brenda specializes in treating clients with complex PTSD, major depression, panic disorder, borderline personality disorder, schizophrenia, addiction, social anxiety, bipolar, and others. She completed her Bachelor's degree in Psychology from the University of Pittsburgh and her Master's degree in Professional Counseling from Carlow University.
Brenda Slagle is a Nationally Board Certified Counselor (NCC) and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Pennsylvania with over 6 years of experience. Brenda specializes in treating clients with complex PTSD, major depression, panic disorder, borderline personality disorder, schizophrenia, addiction, social anxiety, bipolar, and others. She completed her Bachelor's degree in Psychology from the University of Pittsburgh and her Master's degree in Professional Counseling from Carlow University.
(412) 312-3960 View (412) 312-3960
Photo of Shelby O'Brien, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Shelby O'Brien
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15205
Hi! My name is Shelby and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I have worked with clients ranging in age from 4-50 in the individual, family, and group settings. I have helped countless clients manage anxiety, depression, anger, suicidal thoughts, and process through various trauma. I have also worked with clients who have bipolar disorder and borderline personality disorder. I have also helped numerous clients navigate every day stressors related to family, school, work, and life changes. I love animals and am a believer that animals are also great healers and am interested in implementing other alternative forms of healing.
Hi! My name is Shelby and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I have worked with clients ranging in age from 4-50 in the individual, family, and group settings. I have helped countless clients manage anxiety, depression, anger, suicidal thoughts, and process through various trauma. I have also worked with clients who have bipolar disorder and borderline personality disorder. I have also helped numerous clients navigate every day stressors related to family, school, work, and life changes. I love animals and am a believer that animals are also great healers and am interested in implementing other alternative forms of healing.
(412) 413-9043 View (412) 413-9043
Diane Dolata
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
I work best with individuals and couples who wish to address and explore issues related to emotion regulation, conflict and distress, personality difficulties and communication. In my practice, I have seen depressed and bipolar adults and people with personality issues or disorders for over 15 years.
I work best with individuals and couples who wish to address and explore issues related to emotion regulation, conflict and distress, personality difficulties and communication. In my practice, I have seen depressed and bipolar adults and people with personality issues or disorders for over 15 years.
(412) 444-7118 View (412) 444-7118

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.