Bipolar Disorder Therapists in San Diego, CA

Photo of Mara Beth Justice, Psychologist, PsyD
Mara Beth Justice
Psychologist, PsyD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My name is Mara Justice, I have a Doctorate in Clinical Forensic Psychology and have extensive experience working with adults navigating complex and often overwhelming mental health challenges—including schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, and anxiety.
My approach is collaborative and personalized. I draw from evidence-based practices like CBT , mindfulness, solution-focused therapy, and person-centered techniques to help you make meaningful change at a pace that feels right for you. I show up with warmth, openness, and respect—and I’m not afraid to gently challenge you when it serves your growth.
My name is Mara Justice, I have a Doctorate in Clinical Forensic Psychology and have extensive experience working with adults navigating complex and often overwhelming mental health challenges—including schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, and anxiety.
My approach is collaborative and personalized. I draw from evidence-based practices like CBT , mindfulness, solution-focused therapy, and person-centered techniques to help you make meaningful change at a pace that feels right for you. I show up with warmth, openness, and respect—and I’m not afraid to gently challenge you when it serves your growth.
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Photo of Karen DeSocio, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Karen DeSocio
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Navigating life with ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, or Depression can feel overwhelming, leaving you frustrated, unfocused, or disconnected.
I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help you identify and reshape unhelpful thought patterns, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to build emotional regulation skills, and mindfulness approaches to cultivate presence and peace. Each session is collaborative and tailored to your needs.
Navigating life with ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, or Depression can feel overwhelming, leaving you frustrated, unfocused, or disconnected.
I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help you identify and reshape unhelpful thought patterns, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to build emotional regulation skills, and mindfulness approaches to cultivate presence and peace. Each session is collaborative and tailored to your needs.
(858) 799-0304 View (858) 799-0304
Photo of Irwin Ford Rosenfarb, Psychologist, PhD
Irwin Ford Rosenfarb
Psychologist, PhD
San Diego, CA 92131
I offer psychotherapy for adults, couples, families, and teens dealing with relationship difficulties, depression and anxiety, bipolar disorder, personality issues, schizophrenia, and other mental health problems.
I use well-researched treatment methods such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Family Focused Therapy and my work has been informed by Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Psychodynamic Therapy. In addition to my practice, I am a Professor Emeritus in the Clinical Psychology PhD program at Alliant International University.
I offer psychotherapy for adults, couples, families, and teens dealing with relationship difficulties, depression and anxiety, bipolar disorder, personality issues, schizophrenia, and other mental health problems.
I use well-researched treatment methods such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Family Focused Therapy and my work has been informed by Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Psychodynamic Therapy. In addition to my practice, I am a Professor Emeritus in the Clinical Psychology PhD program at Alliant International University.
(858) 943-4693 View (858) 943-4693
Photo of Susie VanDyke, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Susie VanDyke
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
5 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92123
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 Emily Pecaitis, PMHNP
Emily Pecaitis
Verified Verified
Online Only
In my practice, I treat both adults and children for depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and a wide range of other mental health conditions.
I was awarded the Tennessee Star of Life Award in 2017. My past adversities and unique experiences serve as the foundation and motivation for my transition into mental health. I enjoy working directly with military and first responders
In my practice, I treat both adults and children for depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and a wide range of other mental health conditions.
I was awarded the Tennessee Star of Life Award in 2017. My past adversities and unique experiences serve as the foundation and motivation for my transition into mental health. I enjoy working directly with military and first responders
(858) 264-0566 View (858) 264-0566
Photo of Philip Weck, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Philip Weck
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
San Diego, CA 92120
Philip is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW7719), practicing since 1972 and practicing in California since 1979. He has practiced in outpatient psychiatry at Scripps Clinic, Kaiser Permanente & PsyCare/LifeStance Health over the course of those years. He is experienced in the treatment of anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, relational problems, issues having to do with loss. He is experienced in dealing with patients with severe & complicated medical conditions.
Philip is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW7719), practicing since 1972 and practicing in California since 1979. He has practiced in outpatient psychiatry at Scripps Clinic, Kaiser Permanente & PsyCare/LifeStance Health over the course of those years. He is experienced in the treatment of anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, relational problems, issues having to do with loss. He is experienced in dealing with patients with severe & complicated medical conditions.
(858) 358-5059 View (858) 358-5059
Photo of Polina Bryson, Psychologist, PhD
Polina Bryson
Psychologist, PhD
Online Only
Strive To Thrive Psychology is dedicated to improving the quality of life and mental health of adults living with chronic health conditions such as Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes, autoimmune disorders, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and/or other chronic and invisible illness or invisible disability.
When life happens, let’s roll with it instead of working against it. You are capable of living your best life even under the most challenging circumstances. I am passionate about empowering adults living with diabetes, chronic illness, and mood disorders to build the resilience and skills to adapt and thrive.
Strive To Thrive Psychology is dedicated to improving the quality of life and mental health of adults living with chronic health conditions such as Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes, autoimmune disorders, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and/or other chronic and invisible illness or invisible disability.
When life happens, let’s roll with it instead of working against it. You are capable of living your best life even under the most challenging circumstances. I am passionate about empowering adults living with diabetes, chronic illness, and mood disorders to build the resilience and skills to adapt and thrive.
(619) 489-1481 View (619) 489-1481
Photo of Lenny Hughley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Lenny Hughley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
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 Debra M. Halliday - The Halliday Center for Psychotherapy & Wellness, Psychologist, PsyD
The Halliday Center for Psychotherapy & Wellness
Psychologist, PsyD
4 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92130
I specialize in treating depression, bipolar disorder, and addiction, offering compassionate support for life transitions, career counseling, and trauma.
At Halliday Center for Psychotherapy & Wellness we understand that seeking support can feel vulnerable. It takes courage to ask for help—and even more to step into the work of healing. Therapy gives you space to slow down, listen inward, and begin to understand what’s really going on beneath the surface. Founded by Dr. Debra Halliday, Psy.D., The Halliday Center was created to offer something more than just clinical care. It’s a space built on mindful approaches to wellbeing, where people feel safe, seen, and supported as they move through life’s challenges.
I specialize in treating depression, bipolar disorder, and addiction, offering compassionate support for life transitions, career counseling, and trauma.
At Halliday Center for Psychotherapy & Wellness we understand that seeking support can feel vulnerable. It takes courage to ask for help—and even more to step into the work of healing. Therapy gives you space to slow down, listen inward, and begin to understand what’s really going on beneath the surface. Founded by Dr. Debra Halliday, Psy.D., The Halliday Center was created to offer something more than just clinical care. It’s a space built on mindful approaches to wellbeing, where people feel safe, seen, and supported as they move through life’s challenges.
(760) 635-3310 View (760) 635-3310
Photo of Priscilla Kavanagh, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Priscilla Kavanagh
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Online Only
She has a background working with personality disorders, bipolar, PTSD, psychosis, depression, grief/loss, self-esteem, anxiety, and other mental health concerns.
Priscilla Kavanagh is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor who offers psychotherapy to anyone interested in healing. She aspires to help individuals gain insight, awareness, knowledge, and practical tools to promote healing and change by the unveiling of one’s heart. Priscilla has found that faith can be incredibly therapeutic and empowering. It really is the foundation of our hope. And without hope, there is no recovery.
She has a background working with personality disorders, bipolar, PTSD, psychosis, depression, grief/loss, self-esteem, anxiety, and other mental health concerns.
Priscilla Kavanagh is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor who offers psychotherapy to anyone interested in healing. She aspires to help individuals gain insight, awareness, knowledge, and practical tools to promote healing and change by the unveiling of one’s heart. Priscilla has found that faith can be incredibly therapeutic and empowering. It really is the foundation of our hope. And without hope, there is no recovery.
(747) 277-8929 View (747) 277-8929
Photo of Lizeth V Ma, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Lizeth V Ma
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Serves Area
Do you suffer from Bipolar Disorder?
I offer a space to hear about what the client wants and help them get there. As an experienced therapist I'm here to offer my expertise in getting you to a relationship with more happiness, less conflict and better communication with loved ones and most importantly you. . I'm DBT and TF-CBT trained and certified. Please visit www.piertraining.com.
Do you suffer from Bipolar Disorder?
I offer a space to hear about what the client wants and help them get there. As an experienced therapist I'm here to offer my expertise in getting you to a relationship with more happiness, less conflict and better communication with loved ones and most importantly you. . I'm DBT and TF-CBT trained and certified. Please visit www.piertraining.com.
(858) 433-4356 View (858) 433-4356
Photo of Dr. Kimberly Madakasira, Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, LPCC, C-IYT
Dr. Kimberly Madakasira
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, LPCC, C-IYT
Online Only
which have been shown to be beneficial for depression, anxiety, bipolar, trauma, eating disorders among other issues.
Sometimes life can be overwhelming. My primary goal in working with individuals is to help you achieve your full potential and lead a life in the present that is fulfilling and meaningful. We achieve this through a structured, non-confrontational approach where together, we will search for patterns in your life that are causing you difficulties.
which have been shown to be beneficial for depression, anxiety, bipolar, trauma, eating disorders among other issues.
Sometimes life can be overwhelming. My primary goal in working with individuals is to help you achieve your full potential and lead a life in the present that is fulfilling and meaningful. We achieve this through a structured, non-confrontational approach where together, we will search for patterns in your life that are causing you difficulties.
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Photo of Laura Wilhoit, Psychologist, PhD, PMH-C
Laura Wilhoit
Psychologist, PhD, PMH-C
Online Only
That means I can treat people who are pregnant and experiencing mental health changes as well as those who have anxiety, depression, or bipolar episodes after giving birth.
I view therapy as a collaboration between client and therapist. I like to co-create an individualized treatment plan to help you reach your goals, whatever they may be. Typically, I draw from a variety of approaches, including Motivational Interviewing (MI), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT). I believe each person has their own unique strengths and I like to use those as a cornerstone for helping them to improve their life. In addition, we can explore new skills and how those might help. My goal is to be flexible in my style and help meet you where you are at by tailoring my approach.
That means I can treat people who are pregnant and experiencing mental health changes as well as those who have anxiety, depression, or bipolar episodes after giving birth.
I view therapy as a collaboration between client and therapist. I like to co-create an individualized treatment plan to help you reach your goals, whatever they may be. Typically, I draw from a variety of approaches, including Motivational Interviewing (MI), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT). I believe each person has their own unique strengths and I like to use those as a cornerstone for helping them to improve their life. In addition, we can explore new skills and how those might help. My goal is to be flexible in my style and help meet you where you are at by tailoring my approach.
(310) 773-0344 View (310) 773-0344
Photo of Heather Eisen, Pre-Licensed Professional, AMFT
Heather Eisen
Pre-Licensed Professional, AMFT
San Diego, CA 92108
I assist clients struggling with depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, substance use, and major life transitions.
I work with adolescents and adults to address challenges related to finding relief from shame and guilt, relationship struggles, depression, anxiety, and inner criticism through self compassion and self understanding. I believe in the transformative power of understanding, connection and healing. I use many different therapeutic interventions including cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, internal family systems, compassion focused therapy, and trauma informed care. My approach is compassionate and personalized while blending evidence-based techniques with a deep respect for your life journey.
I assist clients struggling with depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, substance use, and major life transitions.
I work with adolescents and adults to address challenges related to finding relief from shame and guilt, relationship struggles, depression, anxiety, and inner criticism through self compassion and self understanding. I believe in the transformative power of understanding, connection and healing. I use many different therapeutic interventions including cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, internal family systems, compassion focused therapy, and trauma informed care. My approach is compassionate and personalized while blending evidence-based techniques with a deep respect for your life journey.
(619) 257-4673 View (619) 257-4673
Photo of Kimberly Lauro, Psychologist, PhD
Kimberly Lauro
Psychologist, PhD
4 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92130
I specialize in helping individuals and couples with Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, Chronic Pain and General Life Changes.
Seeking treatment for depression, anxiety or chronic pain can be challenging, especially when you are feeling down, with little energy and overwhelmed. Because you are here, you are on the right track! I'm a clinical psychologist with over 16 years of experience helping people like you improve mood, energy, self- empowerment and quality of life. I like to work with a mind-body approach, looking at your whole body's experience of your mood...like pain, anxiety, breath.... I use both cognitive treatments, breathwork and ketamine assisted psychotherapy to help you reach your best overall health.
I specialize in helping individuals and couples with Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, Chronic Pain and General Life Changes.
Seeking treatment for depression, anxiety or chronic pain can be challenging, especially when you are feeling down, with little energy and overwhelmed. Because you are here, you are on the right track! I'm a clinical psychologist with over 16 years of experience helping people like you improve mood, energy, self- empowerment and quality of life. I like to work with a mind-body approach, looking at your whole body's experience of your mood...like pain, anxiety, breath.... I use both cognitive treatments, breathwork and ketamine assisted psychotherapy to help you reach your best overall health.
(858) 413-9273 View (858) 413-9273
Photo of Alexander Gilburd, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Alexander Gilburd
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
I also help people who are struggling with substance abuse, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, PTSD, and schizophrenia.
I believe in people’s innate ability to persevere and evolve through their struggles. Everyone has an innate potential to achieve their goals if given the proper nourishment and environment. As a therapist, I strive to provide that environment. I help patients find their path towards their own peace of mind. I foster a trusting and caring relationship with my patients, focusing on the unique and fascinating experiences that every individual brings to the table.
I also help people who are struggling with substance abuse, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, PTSD, and schizophrenia.
I believe in people’s innate ability to persevere and evolve through their struggles. Everyone has an innate potential to achieve their goals if given the proper nourishment and environment. As a therapist, I strive to provide that environment. I help patients find their path towards their own peace of mind. I foster a trusting and caring relationship with my patients, focusing on the unique and fascinating experiences that every individual brings to the table.
(858) 935-4859 View (858) 935-4859
Photo of Colleen Auth, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Colleen Auth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
6 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in the treatment of adults and older adults suffering from depression, bipolar, generalized anxiety, social anxiety, PTSD, OCD, and various personality disorders including Borderline personality disorder.
My therapeutic orientation uses evidence based interventions including Cognitive Behavioral, Mindfulness, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy. My approach in treatment is genuine, down to earth with a touch of humor as needed.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in the treatment of adults and older adults suffering from depression, bipolar, generalized anxiety, social anxiety, PTSD, OCD, and various personality disorders including Borderline personality disorder.
My therapeutic orientation uses evidence based interventions including Cognitive Behavioral, Mindfulness, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy. My approach in treatment is genuine, down to earth with a touch of humor as needed.
(619) 452-1009 View (619) 452-1009
Photo of Kiana Behnood, Psychologist, PsyD
Kiana Behnood
Psychologist, PsyD
Online Only
Behnood has helped clients overcome include generalized anxiety, panic attacks, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Agoraphobia, depression, Bipolar Disorder, substance abuse related concerns, and relationship conflicts between partners and families.
Dr. Kiana Behnood is a clinical psychologist with years of experience specializing in the treatment of children, adolescents, adults, and seniors. Dr. Behnood earned her Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology from Alliant International University, San Diego where her dissertation research focused on bullying students with special needs. Dr. Behnood has worked in a diverse range of settings across San Diego, Orange, and Los Angeles County.
Behnood has helped clients overcome include generalized anxiety, panic attacks, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Agoraphobia, depression, Bipolar Disorder, substance abuse related concerns, and relationship conflicts between partners and families.
Dr. Kiana Behnood is a clinical psychologist with years of experience specializing in the treatment of children, adolescents, adults, and seniors. Dr. Behnood earned her Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology from Alliant International University, San Diego where her dissertation research focused on bullying students with special needs. Dr. Behnood has worked in a diverse range of settings across San Diego, Orange, and Los Angeles County.
(323) 214-3360 View (323) 214-3360
Photo of Danika Peterson, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, MA
Danika Peterson
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, MA
San Diego, CA 92117
I work with teens, couples, and families struggling with: trauma, depression, bipolar disorder, and personality disorders.
Are you struggling with your sense of self, lack of stability in your relationships, and difficulty regulating your emotions? I will work with you to achieve a greater understanding of yourself and others, and find deeper meaning within your life. I want to help you to figure out your roadblocks, where they come from, and how to move through them. I believe that you have the capacity for continuous growth beyond the resolution of your symptoms.
I work with teens, couples, and families struggling with: trauma, depression, bipolar disorder, and personality disorders.
Are you struggling with your sense of self, lack of stability in your relationships, and difficulty regulating your emotions? I will work with you to achieve a greater understanding of yourself and others, and find deeper meaning within your life. I want to help you to figure out your roadblocks, where they come from, and how to move through them. I believe that you have the capacity for continuous growth beyond the resolution of your symptoms.
(619) 693-4834 View (619) 693-4834
Photo of Edmund C Neuhaus, Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Edmund C Neuhaus
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Online Only
My specialties: depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and managing stress because of unsettled life transitions or medical conditions (cancer, cardiac, migraine).
My specialty is behavior change. Most life changes require changing behaviors and habits. It's best to start small. And I help you manage your emotional distress. By developing a mindfulness mindset, you can find ways to accept what is and still do the things that are most important to you. I call that living by your values for a more meaningful life.
My specialties: depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and managing stress because of unsettled life transitions or medical conditions (cancer, cardiac, migraine).
My specialty is behavior change. Most life changes require changing behaviors and habits. It's best to start small. And I help you manage your emotional distress. By developing a mindfulness mindset, you can find ways to accept what is and still do the things that are most important to you. I call that living by your values for a more meaningful life.
(858) 266-9682 View (858) 266-9682

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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.