Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Orangecrest, Riverside, CA

Photo of Lenny Hughley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Orangecrest, Riverside, CA
Lenny Hughley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Orangecrest, Riverside, CA 92508
I have experience with persons that suffer from addiction, anger, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorders, career counseling depression, and racial trauma.
Hi, my name is Lenny Hughley, California license 112845. I like to create a space that is warm and nonjudgmental where individuals can freely talk about whatever they choose. My specialties include depression, anxiety, and stress management. Through therapy, I learned how to manage depression, anger, anxiety, and overcome low self-esteem. Through my practice I find it rewarding to help clients do the same.
I have experience with persons that suffer from addiction, anger, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorders, career counseling depression, and racial trauma.
Hi, my name is Lenny Hughley, California license 112845. I like to create a space that is warm and nonjudgmental where individuals can freely talk about whatever they choose. My specialties include depression, anxiety, and stress management. Through therapy, I learned how to manage depression, anger, anxiety, and overcome low self-esteem. Through my practice I find it rewarding to help clients do the same.
(760) 527-2253 View (760) 527-2253
Photo of Lee Shaw, Marriage & Family Therapist in Orangecrest, Riverside, CA
Lee Shaw
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CAADE
Verified Verified
Orangecrest, Riverside, CA 92508
If you would like the best support, someone truly emphatic, a good listener, someone who is seasoned and who is a great supporter, I am your man. I was promoted to the second largest clinic in the State of California, two years early. I quickly found out my true passion is not supervising a clinic, but WORKING WITH CLIENTS! If you suffer from depression, mania, Bipolar, PTSD, anxiety, substance abuse, I have years of experience successfully helping individuals/families like you. I love to work with kids/adults/couples/families. Spanish and English speaking. Insurance Accepted and discrete cash paying clients as well.
If you would like the best support, someone truly emphatic, a good listener, someone who is seasoned and who is a great supporter, I am your man. I was promoted to the second largest clinic in the State of California, two years early. I quickly found out my true passion is not supervising a clinic, but WORKING WITH CLIENTS! If you suffer from depression, mania, Bipolar, PTSD, anxiety, substance abuse, I have years of experience successfully helping individuals/families like you. I love to work with kids/adults/couples/families. Spanish and English speaking. Insurance Accepted and discrete cash paying clients as well.
(951) 900-4933 View (951) 900-4933
Photo of Laura Lugo, Marriage & Family Therapist in Orangecrest, Riverside, CA
Laura Lugo
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Orangecrest, Riverside, CA 92508
Hi there, I'm Laura! I am an experienced Licensed Mental Health Counselor with a demonstrated history of working in the mental health care industry. Skilled in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) for trauma, Group Therapy for substance abuse, Crisis Intervention, Family Therapy, and Case Management. I have a background as a healthcare service professional with a Master of Science (MS) focused on Marriage and Family Therapy/Counseling from the University of Phoenix. I have a very empathetic approach to listening while providing unconditional positive regard for each member's issues and concerns.
Hi there, I'm Laura! I am an experienced Licensed Mental Health Counselor with a demonstrated history of working in the mental health care industry. Skilled in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) for trauma, Group Therapy for substance abuse, Crisis Intervention, Family Therapy, and Case Management. I have a background as a healthcare service professional with a Master of Science (MS) focused on Marriage and Family Therapy/Counseling from the University of Phoenix. I have a very empathetic approach to listening while providing unconditional positive regard for each member's issues and concerns.
(858) 463-5625 View (858) 463-5625
Photo of Katherine Jones, Marriage & Family Therapist in Orangecrest, Riverside, CA
Katherine Jones
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Orangecrest, Riverside, CA 92508
I am passionate about offering strengths-based and client-centered therapy while providing a safe and welcoming atmosphere to help clients navigate through the challenges that life may bring. I will focus on your strength and your progress along the way. I have supported many members of the LGBTQIA community with a variety of concerns, including assisting some on their gender journey. I have also supported women with trauma, clients with anxiety disorders, and issues around perfectionism, identity, and purpose. I have also enjoyed working with adolescents and those that dance to the beat of their own drum.
I am passionate about offering strengths-based and client-centered therapy while providing a safe and welcoming atmosphere to help clients navigate through the challenges that life may bring. I will focus on your strength and your progress along the way. I have supported many members of the LGBTQIA community with a variety of concerns, including assisting some on their gender journey. I have also supported women with trauma, clients with anxiety disorders, and issues around perfectionism, identity, and purpose. I have also enjoyed working with adolescents and those that dance to the beat of their own drum.
(562) 378-4149 View (562) 378-4149
Photo of Matthew McKernan, Marriage & Family Therapist in Orangecrest, Riverside, CA
Matthew McKernan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Orangecrest, Riverside, CA 92508
Hello! My name is Matthew. Thanks for visiting my profile! I am an eclectic therapist (MFT) who - depending on what it is on which you'd like to work - draws from a number of different modalities (from gestalt to psychodynamic to trauma-informed to solution-focused and more). My goal is to help you become more aware of your wholeness and your own inherent abilities to heal and create for yourself a life imbued with meaning, purpose, wonder, healthy relationships, and spiritual well-being.
Hello! My name is Matthew. Thanks for visiting my profile! I am an eclectic therapist (MFT) who - depending on what it is on which you'd like to work - draws from a number of different modalities (from gestalt to psychodynamic to trauma-informed to solution-focused and more). My goal is to help you become more aware of your wholeness and your own inherent abilities to heal and create for yourself a life imbued with meaning, purpose, wonder, healthy relationships, and spiritual well-being.
(909) 551-2069 View (909) 551-2069
Photo of Danielle Norman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Orangecrest, Riverside, CA
Danielle Norman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Orangecrest, Riverside, CA 92508
Hi, my name is Danielle Norman. I have a Doctorate in Psychology and a License in Marriage and Family Therapy. My specialties include childhood trauma/trauma, depression, anxiety, attachment, and parent-child relationships. Currently, my practice focuses on working with adults and adolescents. Clients can present with a number of issues including difficulty in relationships, feeling stuck, low and anxious mood, difficulty coping with stressors, feeling on edge or irritable, and difficulty with sleep.
Hi, my name is Danielle Norman. I have a Doctorate in Psychology and a License in Marriage and Family Therapy. My specialties include childhood trauma/trauma, depression, anxiety, attachment, and parent-child relationships. Currently, my practice focuses on working with adults and adolescents. Clients can present with a number of issues including difficulty in relationships, feeling stuck, low and anxious mood, difficulty coping with stressors, feeling on edge or irritable, and difficulty with sleep.
(951) 494-6487 View (951) 494-6487
Photo of Debra L Valentine, Marriage & Family Therapist in Orangecrest, Riverside, CA
Debra L Valentine
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
Orangecrest, Riverside, CA 92508  (Online Only)
I believe everyone has the ability to become stronger, even in the face of great challenges. As a therapist, I provide an open and affirming space for my clients to explore what makes them strong and resilient. In my practice, I seek to create a safe and warm environment to heal and create lasting change. I am a passionate listener and use empathy as a tool for helping my clients realize their true potential. While I often challenge my clients to delve deeply, I recognize that everyone has different needs and comes to therapy with unique circumstances.
I believe everyone has the ability to become stronger, even in the face of great challenges. As a therapist, I provide an open and affirming space for my clients to explore what makes them strong and resilient. In my practice, I seek to create a safe and warm environment to heal and create lasting change. I am a passionate listener and use empathy as a tool for helping my clients realize their true potential. While I often challenge my clients to delve deeply, I recognize that everyone has different needs and comes to therapy with unique circumstances.
(657) 255-5567 View (657) 255-5567
Photo of Deren Mikels, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Orangecrest, Riverside, CA
Deren Mikels
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Orangecrest, Riverside, CA 92508
DEREN MIKELS, LCSW Empowering People to Achieve Their Potential - I have been providing counseling for over 23 years and my private practice has been open in Riverside, CA for the past 22 years. I believe in providing supportive counseling in a non-judgmental environment in which my clients can reach their full potential. I take an open-minded approach to client wellness and consider the client's work life, family traditions, cultural and spiritual beliefs, and sexual identity. I am confident I can help with any issue and have extensive experience with adults, teenagers and children.
DEREN MIKELS, LCSW Empowering People to Achieve Their Potential - I have been providing counseling for over 23 years and my private practice has been open in Riverside, CA for the past 22 years. I believe in providing supportive counseling in a non-judgmental environment in which my clients can reach their full potential. I take an open-minded approach to client wellness and consider the client's work life, family traditions, cultural and spiritual beliefs, and sexual identity. I am confident I can help with any issue and have extensive experience with adults, teenagers and children.
(951) 821-4552 View (951) 821-4552
Photo of Gregory S Wohl, Marriage & Family Therapist in Orangecrest, Riverside, CA
Gregory S Wohl
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Orangecrest, Riverside, CA 92508
As a Christian therapist, the well-being of you and your family is very important to me. Over the past 35+ years of counseling I have seen a variety of conditions that harm individuals and their relationships. Though these issues can be painful and complex, there are basic underlying principles, that when properly grasped, unleash healing that lasts a lifetime. This kind of healing does not begin with psychological tools and techniques, but with changes in the heart that only God can create. For this reason, letting go of unforgiveness, fear and pride is essential to healing that lasts.
As a Christian therapist, the well-being of you and your family is very important to me. Over the past 35+ years of counseling I have seen a variety of conditions that harm individuals and their relationships. Though these issues can be painful and complex, there are basic underlying principles, that when properly grasped, unleash healing that lasts a lifetime. This kind of healing does not begin with psychological tools and techniques, but with changes in the heart that only God can create. For this reason, letting go of unforgiveness, fear and pride is essential to healing that lasts.
(951) 916-4862 View (951) 916-4862
Photo of Abigail Jacques, Marriage & Family Therapist in Orangecrest, Riverside, CA
Abigail Jacques
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Orangecrest, Riverside, CA 92508
I’m Abigail Jacques, but you can just call me Abby! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California. Choosing to begin therapy is a vulnerable and brave step, and I can’t wait to walk alongside you in this process. I typically work with adolescents and adults struggling with depression, anxiety, life changes, self-esteem, and balancing the ups and downs of life. I am particularly passionate about helping those who wish to process and heal from trauma. I want my clients to feel like they are being understood and supported, not just assessed and analyzed.
I’m Abigail Jacques, but you can just call me Abby! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California. Choosing to begin therapy is a vulnerable and brave step, and I can’t wait to walk alongside you in this process. I typically work with adolescents and adults struggling with depression, anxiety, life changes, self-esteem, and balancing the ups and downs of life. I am particularly passionate about helping those who wish to process and heal from trauma. I want my clients to feel like they are being understood and supported, not just assessed and analyzed.
(858) 914-0055 View (858) 914-0055
Photo of Jocelyne Stancic, Marriage & Family Therapist in Orangecrest, Riverside, CA
Jocelyne Stancic
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Orangecrest, Riverside, CA 92508
Do you self-sabotage? You work very hard to get ahead, strive for success and accomplish goals that you desire. Meanwhile, another part of you criticizes, punishes and demeans everything you’re working hard for. Is it a constant battle between what you want to accomplish, how you want your life to be and that harsh critical voice inside your head? That voice is a big part of your depression, anxiety and addiction. You are not alone and you are not hopeless and doomed to repeat this cycle over and over. I understand that voice and I want to help you find freedom from it.
Do you self-sabotage? You work very hard to get ahead, strive for success and accomplish goals that you desire. Meanwhile, another part of you criticizes, punishes and demeans everything you’re working hard for. Is it a constant battle between what you want to accomplish, how you want your life to be and that harsh critical voice inside your head? That voice is a big part of your depression, anxiety and addiction. You are not alone and you are not hopeless and doomed to repeat this cycle over and over. I understand that voice and I want to help you find freedom from it.
(909) 265-7552 View (909) 265-7552
Photo of Matthew Fava, Marriage & Family Therapist in Orangecrest, Riverside, CA
Matthew Fava
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Orangecrest, Riverside, CA 92508
Hello, my name is Matthew Fava, Psy.D, LMFT , license 47392. My approach to therapy is helping improve the client's ability to both establish, maintain, and improve relationships. Helping the client develop and utilize positive coping skills that best fit their lifestyle. Helping promote the decision-making process while facilitating client potential. My areas of focus are Anxiety disorders, Depression and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). For the past 27 years I have been working with clients that struggle with Depression, Anxiety and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.
Hello, my name is Matthew Fava, Psy.D, LMFT , license 47392. My approach to therapy is helping improve the client's ability to both establish, maintain, and improve relationships. Helping the client develop and utilize positive coping skills that best fit their lifestyle. Helping promote the decision-making process while facilitating client potential. My areas of focus are Anxiety disorders, Depression and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). For the past 27 years I have been working with clients that struggle with Depression, Anxiety and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.
(619) 648-4912 View (619) 648-4912
Photo of Kristy Davis, Marriage & Family Therapist in Orangecrest, Riverside, CA
Kristy Davis
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Orangecrest, Riverside, CA 92508
We all struggle and need support in times of life and asking for that help can be often hard to do. You should feel proud of yourself for taking this first step by looking for that support! My passion has always been to provide that kind of support to individuals, couples, and families in their times of need, and have made a career out of doing so. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 20 years in the mental health and social services fields. Through my journey, I have worked with clients with a variety of diagnoses, including anxiety, depression, mood disorders, personality disorders, addiction, and trauma.
We all struggle and need support in times of life and asking for that help can be often hard to do. You should feel proud of yourself for taking this first step by looking for that support! My passion has always been to provide that kind of support to individuals, couples, and families in their times of need, and have made a career out of doing so. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 20 years in the mental health and social services fields. Through my journey, I have worked with clients with a variety of diagnoses, including anxiety, depression, mood disorders, personality disorders, addiction, and trauma.
(310) 564-0717 View (310) 564-0717
Photo of Dr. Jessica Williams, Psychologist in Orangecrest, Riverside, CA
Dr. Jessica Williams
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Orangecrest, Riverside, CA 92508
Not accepting new clients
It takes great courage to reach out for help. Needing help is not a bad thing. Sometimes we experience situations that lead to heartache and pain, frustration, anger, unforgiveness, sadness, grief, and on and on. Our situations can seem hopeless at times, and we need another perspective to help us realize that we CAN make it through, and that we ARE strong enough to overcome. My goal is to help you get to the root of the issues and challenges that you are experiencing, whether it be anxiety, depression, behavior problems, etc., so that you can move on to enjoying your life to the fullest.
It takes great courage to reach out for help. Needing help is not a bad thing. Sometimes we experience situations that lead to heartache and pain, frustration, anger, unforgiveness, sadness, grief, and on and on. Our situations can seem hopeless at times, and we need another perspective to help us realize that we CAN make it through, and that we ARE strong enough to overcome. My goal is to help you get to the root of the issues and challenges that you are experiencing, whether it be anxiety, depression, behavior problems, etc., so that you can move on to enjoying your life to the fullest.
(951) 363-2628 View (951) 363-2628
Photo of Collaborative Psychology Group, APC, Psychologist in Orangecrest, Riverside, CA
Collaborative Psychology Group, APC
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Orangecrest, Riverside, CA 92508
Not accepting new clients
The core of my work is to help people operate from the best in themselves as an individual and in relationship with others. My work helps individuals develop a state of balance by increasing ones true, solid sense of self and the ability to take care of self while working through difficulties that life throws at you. Key tools in accomplishing this is by helping individuals self confront and self validate and stay true to ones' integrity.
The core of my work is to help people operate from the best in themselves as an individual and in relationship with others. My work helps individuals develop a state of balance by increasing ones true, solid sense of self and the ability to take care of self while working through difficulties that life throws at you. Key tools in accomplishing this is by helping individuals self confront and self validate and stay true to ones' integrity.
(951) 878-0665 View (951) 878-0665
Photo of Kim Swanson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Orangecrest, Riverside, CA
Kim Swanson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orangecrest, Riverside, CA 92508
Not accepting new clients
I specialize in healing complex trauma/PTSD, childhood abuse, attachment, complex grief, anxiety & Dissociative Identity Disorder. The treatment approach I use is Comprehensive Resource Model, a CUTTING-EDGE advanced treatment for trauma, abuse, PTSD, DID, grief, anxiety, panic attacks and depression. Are you feeling anxious, find yourself getting angry, upset or depressed easily? Ever become "frozen" and unable to do the simplest things? Trouble thinking clearly, feel fearful and you just don't understand? I can help, I do understand and want you to know it is possible to feel differently.
I specialize in healing complex trauma/PTSD, childhood abuse, attachment, complex grief, anxiety & Dissociative Identity Disorder. The treatment approach I use is Comprehensive Resource Model, a CUTTING-EDGE advanced treatment for trauma, abuse, PTSD, DID, grief, anxiety, panic attacks and depression. Are you feeling anxious, find yourself getting angry, upset or depressed easily? Ever become "frozen" and unable to do the simplest things? Trouble thinking clearly, feel fearful and you just don't understand? I can help, I do understand and want you to know it is possible to feel differently.
(951) 293-0940 View (951) 293-0940

Online Therapists

Photo of Rebecca Bogner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Orangecrest, Riverside, CA
Rebecca Bogner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Riverside, CA 92507
Rebecca Bogner, LCSW 116243. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, substance use and abuse, bipolar and other mood disorders, as well as serious mental illness including psychotic disorders. My approach to therapy is very client-centered with the hopes of helping clients move from where they are to where they want to be utilizing evidence-based treatments and interventions that best fit the client.
Rebecca Bogner, LCSW 116243. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, substance use and abuse, bipolar and other mood disorders, as well as serious mental illness including psychotic disorders. My approach to therapy is very client-centered with the hopes of helping clients move from where they are to where they want to be utilizing evidence-based treatments and interventions that best fit the client.
(951) 583-3146 View (951) 583-3146
Photo of Krista Edwards, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Orangecrest, Riverside, CA
Krista Edwards
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Riverside, CA 92505  (Online Only)
I am licensed in Arizona and California with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with trauma and abuse, parenting issues, & bipolar disorder. I also have experience working with depression and bipolar clients. I have been working with children and families for about 20 + years. I work with clients to create an open and safe environments where thoughts and feelings can be shared without judgement. i hear to help you take the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process. I am here to support and empower you in that journey.
I am licensed in Arizona and California with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with trauma and abuse, parenting issues, & bipolar disorder. I also have experience working with depression and bipolar clients. I have been working with children and families for about 20 + years. I work with clients to create an open and safe environments where thoughts and feelings can be shared without judgement. i hear to help you take the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process. I am here to support and empower you in that journey.
(951) 289-3440 View (951) 289-3440
Photo of Susie VanDyke, Marriage & Family Therapist in Orangecrest, Riverside, CA
Susie VanDyke
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Riverside, CA 92506
I also have significant experience working with Bipolar.
Hello, I am Susie VanDyke, and I love working with PTSD, trauma, alcohol use, and substance use issues. I especially enjoy working with veterans, first responders, their families, and anyone going through difficult times. I graduated with a Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy in 2008 and have over fifteen years of experience in various mental health and hospital settings, with a concentration in military and first responders. I love helping people improve their lives and want them to feel better as quickly as possible. I enjoy helping people who are feeling hopeless about their situations because of tough circumstances.
I also have significant experience working with Bipolar.
Hello, I am Susie VanDyke, and I love working with PTSD, trauma, alcohol use, and substance use issues. I especially enjoy working with veterans, first responders, their families, and anyone going through difficult times. I graduated with a Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy in 2008 and have over fifteen years of experience in various mental health and hospital settings, with a concentration in military and first responders. I love helping people improve their lives and want them to feel better as quickly as possible. I enjoy helping people who are feeling hopeless about their situations because of tough circumstances.
(858) 758-3597 View (858) 758-3597
Photo of Lauri Mendes, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern in Orangecrest, Riverside, CA
Lauri Mendes
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Verified Verified
Riverside, CA 92507
I work with trauma, PTSD, depression, bipolar, mood disorders, anxiety, and personality disorders.
Life presents us with many battles to overcome. We are bombarded with constant information 24/7 and when we have time for peace of mind, do we actually achieve it? How long can you put the phone down, stop checking emails every few minutes, or take a break from social media. We all have the best of intentions, like spending more time with the kids, meditating, starting a new exercise routine, taking walks, reading a new book, eating healthy. The list can go on and on! But what is holding you back from living the life you want? Why don’t you allow yourself grace and make those activities your reality by considering therapy.
I work with trauma, PTSD, depression, bipolar, mood disorders, anxiety, and personality disorders.
Life presents us with many battles to overcome. We are bombarded with constant information 24/7 and when we have time for peace of mind, do we actually achieve it? How long can you put the phone down, stop checking emails every few minutes, or take a break from social media. We all have the best of intentions, like spending more time with the kids, meditating, starting a new exercise routine, taking walks, reading a new book, eating healthy. The list can go on and on! But what is holding you back from living the life you want? Why don’t you allow yourself grace and make those activities your reality by considering therapy.
(951) 484-1856 View (951) 484-1856

See more therapy options for Orangecrest, Riverside

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.