Photo of Ashley-Lauren Smith, LPC-Associate in Galveston, TX
Ashley-Lauren Smith
LPC-Associate, BS, MS
Verified Verified
Galveston, TX 77550
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 Christopher Times, Counselor in Galveston, 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 Family Service Center of Galveston County, Psychologist in Galveston, TX
Family Service Center of Galveston County
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Galveston, TX 77550
Family Service Center is a counseling agency in Galveston County serving individuals of all ages and their families. FSC also collaborates and provides services at multiple community-based settings to best serve client needs. FSC employs a professional staff of skilled clinicians who hold degrees in Psychology, Social Work, Counseling or closely related disciplines. Our clinicians join clients in identifying solutions to meet and respond to life's challenges. FSC's programs include the Individual and Family Program, the Juvenile Justice/Oasis Program, the STAR Program, the Community Support Services Program, Prevention and Outreach Services, and Victim Support Services.
Family Service Center is a counseling agency in Galveston County serving individuals of all ages and their families. FSC also collaborates and provides services at multiple community-based settings to best serve client needs. FSC employs a professional staff of skilled clinicians who hold degrees in Psychology, Social Work, Counseling or closely related disciplines. Our clinicians join clients in identifying solutions to meet and respond to life's challenges. FSC's programs include the Individual and Family Program, the Juvenile Justice/Oasis Program, the STAR Program, the Community Support Services Program, Prevention and Outreach Services, and Victim Support Services.
(409) 316-3615 View (409) 316-3615
Photo of Rachel Elizabeth Vinson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Galveston, TX
Rachel Elizabeth Vinson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Galveston, TX 77555  (Online Only)
Welcome to one of the most important journeys of your life, and congratulations on deciding to take the first step of that journey. My role is to work with you to use your own strengths to make the changes that you desire in your life. My journey to becoming a counselor began with a personal crisis in my own life. I have walked your path and want to support you in your current journey, wherever you may be along that path. Give me a call, and let's start talking now.
Welcome to one of the most important journeys of your life, and congratulations on deciding to take the first step of that journey. My role is to work with you to use your own strengths to make the changes that you desire in your life. My journey to becoming a counselor began with a personal crisis in my own life. I have walked your path and want to support you in your current journey, wherever you may be along that path. Give me a call, and let's start talking now.
(346) 209-0865 View (346) 209-0865
Photo of Veronica Meza-Hernandez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Galveston, TX
Veronica Meza-Hernandez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, BCD, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Galveston, TX 77551
Not accepting new clients
For over 15 years, I have helped children, adolescents, young adults, parents, and families cope with life's adversities, changes and significant events that can have a lasting emotional impact. This includes school issues, peer conflict/bullying, low self esteem, grief/loss, relational and family conflict, divorce, parenting and co-parenting, coping with illnesses, abuse, trauma, depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, self-harm behaviors and more. I truly believe that given the right type of treatment at a young age a person can overcome adversities and prevent long term negative effects.
For over 15 years, I have helped children, adolescents, young adults, parents, and families cope with life's adversities, changes and significant events that can have a lasting emotional impact. This includes school issues, peer conflict/bullying, low self esteem, grief/loss, relational and family conflict, divorce, parenting and co-parenting, coping with illnesses, abuse, trauma, depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, self-harm behaviors and more. I truly believe that given the right type of treatment at a young age a person can overcome adversities and prevent long term negative effects.
(281) 784-3815 View (281) 784-3815

Online Therapists

Photo of Catherine Fagan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Galveston, TX
Catherine Fagan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, LCDC, LSOTP
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77084
My expertise involves working with clients on topics such as: Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, Abuse, Domestic Violence, Divorce, Parenting, Relationships, Sex, Drug Abuse, Life Issues, Stress, Grief, Anger, Behavior Issues and other topics.
Hello! My name is Catherine Fagan and I’m a licensed professional counselor. I attended Prairie View A & M University and have been practicing counseling for over 10 years. I specialize in working with children, teens, and adults and I’m happy to help you today with any of your mental health concerns.
My expertise involves working with clients on topics such as: Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, Abuse, Domestic Violence, Divorce, Parenting, Relationships, Sex, Drug Abuse, Life Issues, Stress, Grief, Anger, Behavior Issues and other topics.
Hello! My name is Catherine Fagan and I’m a licensed professional counselor. I attended Prairie View A & M University and have been practicing counseling for over 10 years. I specialize in working with children, teens, and adults and I’m happy to help you today with any of your mental health concerns.
(346) 567-7465 View (346) 567-7465
Photo of Ian Baker Thompson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Galveston, 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 Evolve Yourself LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Galveston, TX
Evolve Yourself LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77056
Are you struggling with Anxiety, Depression, Stress, Mood Changes, and ready to change your mindset? My name is Tishlinn S Fountain, MBA, MA, LPC-S, and I am here to assist you with being whole. . I love to assist individuals who have the desire to implement change in their lives. I have experience helping others with ADHD, Anxiety Disorder, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Trauma with children and adults, Stress Management, Domestic Violence, Anger Management, Behavioral Issues and Self-Esteem.
Are you struggling with Anxiety, Depression, Stress, Mood Changes, and ready to change your mindset? My name is Tishlinn S Fountain, MBA, MA, LPC-S, and I am here to assist you with being whole. . I love to assist individuals who have the desire to implement change in their lives. I have experience helping others with ADHD, Anxiety Disorder, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Trauma with children and adults, Stress Management, Domestic Violence, Anger Management, Behavioral Issues and Self-Esteem.
(281) 843-5495 View (281) 843-5495
Photo of Meg Bellows, Licensed Professional Counselor in Galveston, 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 Mary Ann Hunt Sartori, Licensed Professional Counselor in Galveston, TX
Mary Ann Hunt Sartori
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Spring, TX 77380
My experiences include counseling couples, individuals dealing with depression, anxiety, anger, bipolar disorder, gay/lesbian, and substance abuse.
Founder of Family & Youth Institute, I am a licensed professional counselor and counselor intern supervisor. I also hold a doctorate in educational leadership and am a certified school counselor. Dedicated to helping people live the best life possible, I believe individuals/families can resolve their own problems, make healthy choices, and build a good life with the appropriate tools and skills. My mission is to provide those tools and skills through an eclectic counseling approach, utilizing psycho-education, individual counseling, group counseling, family therapy, and systems theory. offer educational consulting to help navigate 504 and Special Education placement.
My experiences include counseling couples, individuals dealing with depression, anxiety, anger, bipolar disorder, gay/lesbian, and substance abuse.
Founder of Family & Youth Institute, I am a licensed professional counselor and counselor intern supervisor. I also hold a doctorate in educational leadership and am a certified school counselor. Dedicated to helping people live the best life possible, I believe individuals/families can resolve their own problems, make healthy choices, and build a good life with the appropriate tools and skills. My mission is to provide those tools and skills through an eclectic counseling approach, utilizing psycho-education, individual counseling, group counseling, family therapy, and systems theory. offer educational consulting to help navigate 504 and Special Education placement.
(281) 809-6623 View (281) 809-6623
Photo of Jennifer Uherek, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Galveston, 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 Jamie Taylor, Licensed Professional Counselor in Galveston, 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 Transitional Life Counseling and Consultation, Licensed Professional Counselor in Galveston, TX
Transitional Life Counseling and Consultation
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77054
At TLCC have increase availability to provide psycho-educational and specialty group in the areas of Domestic Violence, Anger Management, Parenting, Bipolar Groups, PTSD, Sexual Abuse or Offenders.
I am the Owner/Director of TLCC "where an open ear is always here". I specialize in severe mental health issues ranging from psychosis, anxiety, depression, mood disorders. As a therapist, I have designed my practice and intensive outpatient clinic to provide services for severe mentally disabled children and adults.
At TLCC have increase availability to provide psycho-educational and specialty group in the areas of Domestic Violence, Anger Management, Parenting, Bipolar Groups, PTSD, Sexual Abuse or Offenders.
I am the Owner/Director of TLCC "where an open ear is always here". I specialize in severe mental health issues ranging from psychosis, anxiety, depression, mood disorders. As a therapist, I have designed my practice and intensive outpatient clinic to provide services for severe mentally disabled children and adults.
(832) 475-8981 View (832) 475-8981
Photo of John Michael Murray, Marriage & Family Therapist in Galveston, TX
John Michael Murray
Marriage & Family Therapist, JD, MS, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
Lake Jackson, TX 77566
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 Reva McMillan-Ford, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Galveston, TX
Reva McMillan-Ford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77007  (Online Only)
I am a passionate and empathetic therapist with strong counseling abilities and an understanding of interpersonal and familial relationships. I specialize in working with clients from diverse backgrounds and across the lifespan. I have experience leading clients through Depression, Anxiety, crisis and stress management. Through clinical experience, compassion, and empathy I support and assist those willing to make a positive difference in their lives.
I am a passionate and empathetic therapist with strong counseling abilities and an understanding of interpersonal and familial relationships. I specialize in working with clients from diverse backgrounds and across the lifespan. I have experience leading clients through Depression, Anxiety, crisis and stress management. Through clinical experience, compassion, and empathy I support and assist those willing to make a positive difference in their lives.
(281) 214-6339 View (281) 214-6339
Photo of Joseph Garza, Licensed Professional Counselor in Galveston, TX
Joseph Garza
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tomball, TX 77375
My ideal client would be someone whom is open to change. Notice I stated open, because change can be difficult but it is necessary for growth. I have been working with with all type of populations ranging from children to the elderly. I enjoy working with adolescents and adults as well with couples. I have worked with individuals and families. I have had experience with anxiety related issues, addiction issues, and relational issues. I have seen many individuals with self-esteem related issues as well.
My ideal client would be someone whom is open to change. Notice I stated open, because change can be difficult but it is necessary for growth. I have been working with with all type of populations ranging from children to the elderly. I enjoy working with adolescents and adults as well with couples. I have worked with individuals and families. I have had experience with anxiety related issues, addiction issues, and relational issues. I have seen many individuals with self-esteem related issues as well.
(281) 699-2374 View (281) 699-2374
Photo of Amanda Schramm, Licensed Professional Counselor in Galveston, TX
Amanda Schramm
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shenandoah, TX 77384
Hi! My name is Amanda (Mandy) Schramm. I've been working in the mental health field since 2015, but practicing counseling since 2020. My experience mainly has been working with adolescents in residential settings struggling with mental health and behavioral issues. My work with adolescents in long term programs has afforded me the opportunity to see how different environments and family systems shape youth growth and needs. I have also worked with adults struggling with mental health, ineffective coping skills, poor social supports, and substance use.
Hi! My name is Amanda (Mandy) Schramm. I've been working in the mental health field since 2015, but practicing counseling since 2020. My experience mainly has been working with adolescents in residential settings struggling with mental health and behavioral issues. My work with adolescents in long term programs has afforded me the opportunity to see how different environments and family systems shape youth growth and needs. I have also worked with adults struggling with mental health, ineffective coping skills, poor social supports, and substance use.
(936) 220-3725 View (936) 220-3725
Photo of Ameerah Ali, Licensed Professional Counselor in Galveston, TX
Ameerah Ali
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77057
Hello, I'm Ameerah specializing in providing therapeutic services to children, adolescents, and adults. I have been providing therapy to clients for over 15 years utilizing a variety of therapies including an eclectic approach to therapy, trauma- focused cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focused therapy, and dialectical behavior therapy in helping my clients to reach their goals.
Hello, I'm Ameerah specializing in providing therapeutic services to children, adolescents, and adults. I have been providing therapy to clients for over 15 years utilizing a variety of therapies including an eclectic approach to therapy, trauma- focused cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focused therapy, and dialectical behavior therapy in helping my clients to reach their goals.
(314) 684-8363 View (314) 684-8363
Photo of Provenance Care Services, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Galveston, TX
Provenance Care Services, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77056
I am one of a HANDFUL of Filipina American therapists based in Houston, the fourth largest and most diverse city in the nation. I am trilingual in English and the Filipino dialects: Tagalog and Cebuano. I have a unique understanding of the bicultural/immigrant experience, being an immigrant myself. I believe everyone has an innate need to feel seen and valued. This is my goal in my practice: that the person sitting in front of me knows their value and provide a safe space to process the jagged edges of life. I want to ensure that the goals clients have in therapy are met and to empower them to face the other side of my office door.
I am one of a HANDFUL of Filipina American therapists based in Houston, the fourth largest and most diverse city in the nation. I am trilingual in English and the Filipino dialects: Tagalog and Cebuano. I have a unique understanding of the bicultural/immigrant experience, being an immigrant myself. I believe everyone has an innate need to feel seen and valued. This is my goal in my practice: that the person sitting in front of me knows their value and provide a safe space to process the jagged edges of life. I want to ensure that the goals clients have in therapy are met and to empower them to face the other side of my office door.
(346) 639-3249 View (346) 639-3249
Photo of Dorinda Gborie-Minor Bey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Galveston, TX
Dorinda Gborie-Minor Bey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
Richmond, TX 77407  (Online Only)
I have worked in the schools, prison, DFPS, and hospitals. I use modalities such as DBT, CBT, Narrative Therapy, Task Centered/Problem-Solving Therapy, Structural Family Therapy, Gestalt Therapy, Mindfulness, and Solution-Focused Therapy. I have over 10 years of experience in helping adults, couples, individuals, groups, and children with issues such as substance abuse, anger management, behavioral problems, mental health disorders, grief, chronic illnesses, school issues, parenting issues, domestic violence, criminal stipulations, and marital problems. I also offer LCSW Clinical Supervision.
I have worked in the schools, prison, DFPS, and hospitals. I use modalities such as DBT, CBT, Narrative Therapy, Task Centered/Problem-Solving Therapy, Structural Family Therapy, Gestalt Therapy, Mindfulness, and Solution-Focused Therapy. I have over 10 years of experience in helping adults, couples, individuals, groups, and children with issues such as substance abuse, anger management, behavioral problems, mental health disorders, grief, chronic illnesses, school issues, parenting issues, domestic violence, criminal stipulations, and marital problems. I also offer LCSW Clinical Supervision.
(346) 361-1956 View (346) 361-1956
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.