Photo of John Michael Murray, Marriage & Family Therapist in Angleton, TX
John Michael Murray
Marriage & Family Therapist, JD, MS, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
Angleton, TX 77515
I therefore specialize in individual as well as relationship counseling to address issues arrising out of: - Depression, anxiety, stress, grief and loss; divorce; parenting; stepfamiles; adolesents; self-esteem; abuse; bipolar; anger; ad/hd.
You are one-of-a-kind. And so, beginning with our first meeting, I will be sure that I clearly understand you and your unique needs. Then, as your therapist, I will work to help you establish and achieve the goals that are immportant to you. Effective psychotherapy supports the emotional healing that leads to wellbeing. My approach includes what I call "relational reflective listening and speaking". It's a process that developes and nurtures the deep respect I have for my patients. In our conversations you and I together will discover new possibilities, new hope that heals the heart.
I therefore specialize in individual as well as relationship counseling to address issues arrising out of: - Depression, anxiety, stress, grief and loss; divorce; parenting; stepfamiles; adolesents; self-esteem; abuse; bipolar; anger; ad/hd.
You are one-of-a-kind. And so, beginning with our first meeting, I will be sure that I clearly understand you and your unique needs. Then, as your therapist, I will work to help you establish and achieve the goals that are immportant to you. Effective psychotherapy supports the emotional healing that leads to wellbeing. My approach includes what I call "relational reflective listening and speaking". It's a process that developes and nurtures the deep respect I have for my patients. In our conversations you and I together will discover new possibilities, new hope that heals the heart.
(832) 463-5602 View (832) 463-5602
Photo of Heather Melass, Licensed Professional Counselor in Angleton, TX
Heather Melass
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Angleton, TX 77515
As someone with a Clinical Mental Health background and Family Systems Orientation, I understand that when one person in the family is struggling, it can be a struggle for everyone. I approach mental health and healing from a biological, psychological, social, environmental, and spiritual approach. Healing looks different for each person.
As someone with a Clinical Mental Health background and Family Systems Orientation, I understand that when one person in the family is struggling, it can be a struggle for everyone. I approach mental health and healing from a biological, psychological, social, environmental, and spiritual approach. Healing looks different for each person.
(979) 413-4770 View (979) 413-4770
Photo of Steffanie R Thompson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Angleton, TX
Steffanie R Thompson
Licensed Professional Counselor, M ED, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
Angleton, TX 77515
Life isn’t always easy. Sometimes, even the strongest people amongst us need a little bit of help to work through some of life’s more challenging problems. Everyone has battles to fight and hurdles to overcome at some point. Whether you struggle with anxiety, depression, substance abuse, or any other issue, you should know that there is hope for a better tomorrow. You might be initially hesitant to seek out help and support for personal matters, but when you do, you will feel confident that you are taking a courageous first step towards getting to a better place and being a better you.
Life isn’t always easy. Sometimes, even the strongest people amongst us need a little bit of help to work through some of life’s more challenging problems. Everyone has battles to fight and hurdles to overcome at some point. Whether you struggle with anxiety, depression, substance abuse, or any other issue, you should know that there is hope for a better tomorrow. You might be initially hesitant to seek out help and support for personal matters, but when you do, you will feel confident that you are taking a courageous first step towards getting to a better place and being a better you.
(979) 271-5302 View (979) 271-5302

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Chandler Garza (She-Her), Licensed Professional Counselor in Angleton, TX
Chandler Garza (She-Her)
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Jackson, TX 77566  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
**very limited availability- Hello there! I’m Chandler, a Trauma-Informed and CBT-oriented psychotherapist. In therapy, my priority is fostering a therapeutic connection that feels safe and open. My mission is to allow space for my clients to explore themselves with curiosity and security. My greatest joy as a therapist is walking with my clients as they uncover a deeper understanding of themselves. Experiencing these moments and the power behind them is a special honor that brings passion to my work.
**very limited availability- Hello there! I’m Chandler, a Trauma-Informed and CBT-oriented psychotherapist. In therapy, my priority is fostering a therapeutic connection that feels safe and open. My mission is to allow space for my clients to explore themselves with curiosity and security. My greatest joy as a therapist is walking with my clients as they uncover a deeper understanding of themselves. Experiencing these moments and the power behind them is a special honor that brings passion to my work.
View

Online Therapists

Photo of Christopher Times, Counselor in Angleton, TX
Christopher Times
Counselor, MA, CCC, LCDC-I
Verified Verified
Galveston, TX 77550
I specialize in chemical dependency counseling, dual diagnosis therapy, treating schizophrenia, depression, bipolar disorder and anger management.
My practice is designed to offer Life Coaching to clients of all ethnic backgrounds for the purpose of lifting, building, stimulating growth and progressive motion toward emotional well-being and personal actualization.
I specialize in chemical dependency counseling, dual diagnosis therapy, treating schizophrenia, depression, bipolar disorder and anger management.
My practice is designed to offer Life Coaching to clients of all ethnic backgrounds for the purpose of lifting, building, stimulating growth and progressive motion toward emotional well-being and personal actualization.
(409) 752-6668 View (409) 752-6668
Photo of Meg Bellows, Licensed Professional Counselor in Angleton, TX
Meg Bellows
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S, NCC, CART, BCPC
Verified Verified
Spring, TX 77388
My passion is treating clients who have endured trauma. I'm trained in EMDR. I combine EMDR with narrative therapy to help clients resolve and reprocess the traumatic event. I love working with clients who suffer from depression, bipolar, and personality disorders. I also work with couples and families who are in crisis. I am also endorsed by the American Psychotherapy Association as a Board Certified Professional Counselor.
My passion is treating clients who have endured trauma. I'm trained in EMDR. I combine EMDR with narrative therapy to help clients resolve and reprocess the traumatic event. I love working with clients who suffer from depression, bipolar, and personality disorders. I also work with couples and families who are in crisis. I am also endorsed by the American Psychotherapy Association as a Board Certified Professional Counselor.
(561) 935-3543 View (561) 935-3543
Photo of Jennifer Uherek, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Angleton, TX
Jennifer Uherek
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, DCSW
Verified Verified
Hockley, TX 77447
I am a Clinical Social Worker and Psychotherapist with 25+ years of experience helping individuals, couples and families experience positive life change. I treat a wide variety of issues, and hold a special place in my heart for those with deeply rooted pain and injuries from childhood trauma and or sexual abuse and am honored to share in the healing journey as we learn not just to survive, but to thrive! Some of the other issues I treat include Dissociative disorders, codependency, Attachment issues, Behavioral issues, Depression and Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, Impulsivity, Divorce, Grief, Sexuality/gender related issues, self-esteem.
I am a Clinical Social Worker and Psychotherapist with 25+ years of experience helping individuals, couples and families experience positive life change. I treat a wide variety of issues, and hold a special place in my heart for those with deeply rooted pain and injuries from childhood trauma and or sexual abuse and am honored to share in the healing journey as we learn not just to survive, but to thrive! Some of the other issues I treat include Dissociative disorders, codependency, Attachment issues, Behavioral issues, Depression and Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, Impulsivity, Divorce, Grief, Sexuality/gender related issues, self-esteem.
(832) 501-2655 View (832) 501-2655
Photo of Sheri Dunn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Angleton, TX
Sheri Dunn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Shenandoah, TX 77384
My strongest belief as a therapist is that there must be a connection between therapist and client, one of trust and respect. Not all therapists are a right fit for you, you have to find the therapist you connect with. I have worked with individuals and their families to gain skills for coping with and managing issues surrounding depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and behavioral struggles along with relational and personal issues. I have worked with adolescents in hospital outpatient settings as well as private practice. I have experience working with children, adult individuals, couples, and families.
My strongest belief as a therapist is that there must be a connection between therapist and client, one of trust and respect. Not all therapists are a right fit for you, you have to find the therapist you connect with. I have worked with individuals and their families to gain skills for coping with and managing issues surrounding depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and behavioral struggles along with relational and personal issues. I have worked with adolescents in hospital outpatient settings as well as private practice. I have experience working with children, adult individuals, couples, and families.
(936) 237-7915 View (936) 237-7915
Photo of Brandi Large, Licensed Professional Counselor in Angleton, TX
Brandi Large
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
The Woodlands, TX 77389
Brandi is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Western Illinois University and her Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology from Sam Houston State University. Her diverse experience includes therapy with children, adolescents, and adults. Her clinical experience with clients includes anxiety, depression, post traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, and survivors of sexual assault. She provides a safe, relaxed, and nonjudgmental space for you to heal emotionally and learn coping skills.
Brandi is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Western Illinois University and her Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology from Sam Houston State University. Her diverse experience includes therapy with children, adolescents, and adults. Her clinical experience with clients includes anxiety, depression, post traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, and survivors of sexual assault. She provides a safe, relaxed, and nonjudgmental space for you to heal emotionally and learn coping skills.
(281) 984-4924 View (281) 984-4924
Photo of Kathy Keith, Licensed Professional Counselor in Angleton, TX
Kathy Keith
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77081
My name is Kathy Keith, MA, a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 24 years of clinical experience. I have experience working with adults, teenagers, and couples with Anger Management, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, Addiction, Behavioral Issues, Codependency, Coping Skills, Depression, Dual Diagnosis, Eating Disorders, Schizophrenia, Trauma, PTSD, and many more. The most common theoretical approaches I use are CBT, Interpersonal psychology, Trauma Focused CBT, Reality Therapy, ACT, Mindfulness, and positive psychology. I believe that I am supportive, compassionate, and respectful that guide you to where you want to go!
My name is Kathy Keith, MA, a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 24 years of clinical experience. I have experience working with adults, teenagers, and couples with Anger Management, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, Addiction, Behavioral Issues, Codependency, Coping Skills, Depression, Dual Diagnosis, Eating Disorders, Schizophrenia, Trauma, PTSD, and many more. The most common theoretical approaches I use are CBT, Interpersonal psychology, Trauma Focused CBT, Reality Therapy, ACT, Mindfulness, and positive psychology. I believe that I am supportive, compassionate, and respectful that guide you to where you want to go!
(469) 772-5769 View (469) 772-5769
Photo of Sabah Ali, Licensed Professional Counselor in Angleton, TX
Sabah Ali
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77095
My name is Sabah Ali. I am a licensed professional counselor and have been practicing therapy since 2014. I have high levels of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly facing Anxiety, Depression, Relationship Issues, Stress, and Bipolar Disorder. My therapeutic approaches are Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Solution Focused Brief (SFBT), Client-Centered Therapy, Couples Therapy, and Supportive Therapy. I genuinely believe that the obstacles of your past can become the gateways that lead to new beginnings.
My name is Sabah Ali. I am a licensed professional counselor and have been practicing therapy since 2014. I have high levels of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly facing Anxiety, Depression, Relationship Issues, Stress, and Bipolar Disorder. My therapeutic approaches are Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Solution Focused Brief (SFBT), Client-Centered Therapy, Couples Therapy, and Supportive Therapy. I genuinely believe that the obstacles of your past can become the gateways that lead to new beginnings.
(254) 875-0421 View (254) 875-0421
Photo of Helen K Chong, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Angleton, TX
Helen K Chong
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, CGP, PLLC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77006
Waitlist for new clients
My research work at the Baylor Mood Disorders Center focused on depression, bipolar, and post-partum depression.
The gift of therapy cannot be truly measured in words or action, but in how you feel afterwards. Your decision to begin psychotherapy was probably made after a great deal of thought and consideration. Selecting a therapist who will be a good fit for you is critical since the process of psychotherapy is intense, and a satisfactory outcome is essential. I provide a broad spectrum of evaluation and psychotherapeutic services with individuals, couples, families, and groups. My approach is collaborative, seeking solutions within your value system.
My research work at the Baylor Mood Disorders Center focused on depression, bipolar, and post-partum depression.
The gift of therapy cannot be truly measured in words or action, but in how you feel afterwards. Your decision to begin psychotherapy was probably made after a great deal of thought and consideration. Selecting a therapist who will be a good fit for you is critical since the process of psychotherapy is intense, and a satisfactory outcome is essential. I provide a broad spectrum of evaluation and psychotherapeutic services with individuals, couples, families, and groups. My approach is collaborative, seeking solutions within your value system.
(503) 966-0183 View (503) 966-0183
Photo of Christina Thomas, Licensed Professional Counselor in Angleton, TX
Christina Thomas
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77063
I am a multicultural therapist with extensive experience working with adults, adolescents, and children battling with suicidal thoughts, self-harm, eating disorders, bullying, bipolar disorder trauma, grief, and more.
I am a Nationally certified counselor and an LPC in the state of TX. My clients describe me as empathetic, kind, and patient. My primary focus is to provide a safe space to unravel emotions, trauma, or experiences without the fear of being judged. My primary area of specialty is Cognitive behavioral therapy. My experience includes working with children, adolescents and individuals of diverse cultures. I am a strong believer in the statement. "Progress is progress no matter how small it is".
I am a multicultural therapist with extensive experience working with adults, adolescents, and children battling with suicidal thoughts, self-harm, eating disorders, bullying, bipolar disorder trauma, grief, and more.
I am a Nationally certified counselor and an LPC in the state of TX. My clients describe me as empathetic, kind, and patient. My primary focus is to provide a safe space to unravel emotions, trauma, or experiences without the fear of being judged. My primary area of specialty is Cognitive behavioral therapy. My experience includes working with children, adolescents and individuals of diverse cultures. I am a strong believer in the statement. "Progress is progress no matter how small it is".
(832) 621-3003 View (832) 621-3003
Photo of Ashley-Lauren Smith, LPC-Associate in Angleton, TX
Ashley-Lauren Smith
LPC-Associate, BS, MS
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77055
Smith has a special interest in treating Bipolar Disorder, stress management, and coping skills.
Ashley-Lauren E. Smith is a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate under the supervision of Henry M. Pittman, MA, LMFT, LPC-S, LCDC She assists individuals, couples, or families with general problem areas of distress such as self-esteem, stress management, toxic relationships, communication skills, codependency, problem-solving, depression, anxiety, anger, and other impulsive behaviors.
Smith has a special interest in treating Bipolar Disorder, stress management, and coping skills.
Ashley-Lauren E. Smith is a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate under the supervision of Henry M. Pittman, MA, LMFT, LPC-S, LCDC She assists individuals, couples, or families with general problem areas of distress such as self-esteem, stress management, toxic relationships, communication skills, codependency, problem-solving, depression, anxiety, anger, and other impulsive behaviors.
(832) 219-1409 View (832) 219-1409
Photo of Paul Teska, Licensed Professional Counselor in Angleton, TX
Paul Teska
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Dayton, TX 77535  (Online Only)
Throughout my career, I have probably worked with every single situation in the counseling field. I have worked inpatient, outpatient, and telepatient. I have worked in prisons, jails, psychiatric hospitals, IDD facilities, community MHMR, and community counseling centers. My specialties include drug and alcohol addiction, trauma, major depression, bipolar, schizophrenia, anxiety, stress, marital problems, anger management, and people with LGBTQ issues.
Throughout my career, I have probably worked with every single situation in the counseling field. I have worked inpatient, outpatient, and telepatient. I have worked in prisons, jails, psychiatric hospitals, IDD facilities, community MHMR, and community counseling centers. My specialties include drug and alcohol addiction, trauma, major depression, bipolar, schizophrenia, anxiety, stress, marital problems, anger management, and people with LGBTQ issues.
(936) 243-3569 View (936) 243-3569
Photo of Yassmin Eldouh, Licensed Professional Counselor in Angleton, TX
Yassmin Eldouh
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77025  (Online Only)
Hello and welcome! My area of focus is providing culturally competent counseling to individuals of varying mental health difficulties. I work with clients with various presenting issues, including anxiety and depression, OCD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, and addictions. In addition to being a licensed therapist, I am completing my PhD in counseling. My intersectional identities as an Arab-Asian woman from a Muslim background allows me to experience understanding and empathy for those from varying backgrounds and identities.
Hello and welcome! My area of focus is providing culturally competent counseling to individuals of varying mental health difficulties. I work with clients with various presenting issues, including anxiety and depression, OCD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, and addictions. In addition to being a licensed therapist, I am completing my PhD in counseling. My intersectional identities as an Arab-Asian woman from a Muslim background allows me to experience understanding and empathy for those from varying backgrounds and identities.
(940) 329-2591 View (940) 329-2591
Photo of Jamie Taylor, Licensed Professional Counselor in Angleton, TX
Jamie Taylor
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Rosenberg, TX 77469  (Online Only)
I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults with various diagnoses including Eating Disorders, Anxiety, ADHD, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Depression, Bipolar, Psychosis, Borderline Personality Disorder, Schizoaffective Disorder, as well as general stressors and everyday anxieties.
I started my career in mental health as a mental health technician for PEAK Behavioral Hospital in 2006. I then became a Qualified Mental Health Professional/Case Manager for Texana Center for 8 years in 2007. I then became a behavioral health counselor at Eating Recovery Center-Houston with clients struggling with various eating disorders, followed by becoming a therapist for two different PHP/IOP programs, one for adults and the other for adolescents. Finally, I have experience working for a private practice and now my own private practice with clients who struggle with stress, domestic violence, parenting, family conflict, etc.
I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults with various diagnoses including Eating Disorders, Anxiety, ADHD, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Depression, Bipolar, Psychosis, Borderline Personality Disorder, Schizoaffective Disorder, as well as general stressors and everyday anxieties.
I started my career in mental health as a mental health technician for PEAK Behavioral Hospital in 2006. I then became a Qualified Mental Health Professional/Case Manager for Texana Center for 8 years in 2007. I then became a behavioral health counselor at Eating Recovery Center-Houston with clients struggling with various eating disorders, followed by becoming a therapist for two different PHP/IOP programs, one for adults and the other for adolescents. Finally, I have experience working for a private practice and now my own private practice with clients who struggle with stress, domestic violence, parenting, family conflict, etc.
(915) 221-2597 View (915) 221-2597
Photo of Blair Vinson Kleiber, Psychologist in Angleton, TX
Blair Vinson Kleiber
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77024  (Online Only)
My primary focus is helping clients build a fulfilling life based on their personal values & goals. I primarily work with older adolescents, adults, parents, and families with a variety of difficulties including: self-harm & suicidal behaviors, intense emotions/emotions that feel out of control, mood (depression and bipolar disorder), anxiety, and substance use disorders. I have extensive training treating disorders during pregnancy and the postpartum period, as well. My style is collaborative and compassionate, as well as evidence based, meaning I use treatments that have been supported by research to show they are effective.
My primary focus is helping clients build a fulfilling life based on their personal values & goals. I primarily work with older adolescents, adults, parents, and families with a variety of difficulties including: self-harm & suicidal behaviors, intense emotions/emotions that feel out of control, mood (depression and bipolar disorder), anxiety, and substance use disorders. I have extensive training treating disorders during pregnancy and the postpartum period, as well. My style is collaborative and compassionate, as well as evidence based, meaning I use treatments that have been supported by research to show they are effective.
(281) 645-5091 View (281) 645-5091
Photo of Ian Baker Thompson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Angleton, TX
Ian Baker Thompson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
The Woodlands, TX 77380
Types of counseling offered are: Individual, Family, Couple, Stress and Anxiety Management, Executive Skills Coaching, Substance Use Disorders, High Functioning Autism, Depression, ADHD, Bipolar, and Personality Disorders.
I am a counselor and co-owner of Third Coast Counseling and Wellness. My masters degree is in Clinical Psychology and I have been working in the behavioral health field for over 10 years. I have worked in both private practice and public mental health services. I treat patients with and without health insurance using evidenced-based practices and down-to-earth sessions.
Types of counseling offered are: Individual, Family, Couple, Stress and Anxiety Management, Executive Skills Coaching, Substance Use Disorders, High Functioning Autism, Depression, ADHD, Bipolar, and Personality Disorders.
I am a counselor and co-owner of Third Coast Counseling and Wellness. My masters degree is in Clinical Psychology and I have been working in the behavioral health field for over 10 years. I have worked in both private practice and public mental health services. I treat patients with and without health insurance using evidenced-based practices and down-to-earth sessions.
(281) 623-4454 View (281) 623-4454
Photo of Cessi Elizabeth Sutter, Marriage & Family Therapist in Angleton, TX
Cessi Elizabeth Sutter
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77098
I am a bilingual English and Spanish speaking therapist that provides counseling and employment services. I offer individual, group, family, and couples therapy to children, adolescents, and adults. Typical issues that are worked on in counseling include: depression, anxiety, anger management, domestic violence, grief and trauma, communication, identity, and immigrant issues. For those individuals seeking employment and career coaching, assistance is provided to them in helping them obtain a job or accomplish their professional goals. All services are provided in both English and Spanish.
I am a bilingual English and Spanish speaking therapist that provides counseling and employment services. I offer individual, group, family, and couples therapy to children, adolescents, and adults. Typical issues that are worked on in counseling include: depression, anxiety, anger management, domestic violence, grief and trauma, communication, identity, and immigrant issues. For those individuals seeking employment and career coaching, assistance is provided to them in helping them obtain a job or accomplish their professional goals. All services are provided in both English and Spanish.
(713) 587-9974 View (713) 587-9974
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.