Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Belknap Lookout, Grand Rapids, MI

Photo of Disclosures, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Belknap Lookout, Grand Rapids, MI
Disclosures
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Belknap Lookout, Grand Rapids, MI 49509
I specialize in providing therapy to individuals, (children / adults) as well as families who are experiencing struggles with diagnosed or undiagnosed mental illness, (PTSD, Trauma, Parenting, Depression, Anxiety, Suicidal Ideation, Grief and Loss, Sexual Identity, Substance Use, Bipolar, Personality Disorders, as well as Psychosis and Domestic Violence.
We know it is often hard to figure out how to determine what type of Therapy is needed for you and your family. We are here to assist you in every step of the way, making sure that you are getting the personable service that benefits you individually. Our focus is always on our client(s) needs and HEALING. We are here to provide you with HOPE, and the tools needed to reach your goals so that you can live a productive life.
I specialize in providing therapy to individuals, (children / adults) as well as families who are experiencing struggles with diagnosed or undiagnosed mental illness, (PTSD, Trauma, Parenting, Depression, Anxiety, Suicidal Ideation, Grief and Loss, Sexual Identity, Substance Use, Bipolar, Personality Disorders, as well as Psychosis and Domestic Violence.
We know it is often hard to figure out how to determine what type of Therapy is needed for you and your family. We are here to assist you in every step of the way, making sure that you are getting the personable service that benefits you individually. Our focus is always on our client(s) needs and HEALING. We are here to provide you with HOPE, and the tools needed to reach your goals so that you can live a productive life.
(616) 319-2025 View (616) 319-2025
Photo of Natalie Blauer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Belknap Lookout, Grand Rapids, MI
Natalie Blauer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CAADC
Verified Verified
Belknap Lookout, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
If you want help making your life more manageable or finding a way out of the chaos, you have come to the right place. If you feel like you are struggling to reconcile experiences or find coping skills to manage mental health concerns, relationship issues, and/or addictions, you have also come to the right place. We will work together to identify the source of your discomfort and unmanageability and then identify tools to move forward. Once we have identified the problem, we can work towards a solution. I am very solution focused in my approach and enjoy working with individuals who are ready to make sustainable change.
If you want help making your life more manageable or finding a way out of the chaos, you have come to the right place. If you feel like you are struggling to reconcile experiences or find coping skills to manage mental health concerns, relationship issues, and/or addictions, you have also come to the right place. We will work together to identify the source of your discomfort and unmanageability and then identify tools to move forward. Once we have identified the problem, we can work towards a solution. I am very solution focused in my approach and enjoy working with individuals who are ready to make sustainable change.
(616) 404-4155 View (616) 404-4155
Photo of Dr. Quillian D Murphy, Licensed Professional Counselor in Belknap Lookout, Grand Rapids, MI
Dr. Quillian D Murphy
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MS, MSEd, DLLP, LPC
Verified Verified
Belknap Lookout, Grand Rapids, MI 49503  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome! I am glad you are here. As a mental health professional, I provide support and intervention for a variety of psychological, career, academic, and relational experiences across the lifespan to diverse persons. This includes services to individuals, various partner structures, families, and groups. My work centers on decolonization and destigmatization of mental health services with emphasis on culturally-affirming care. As such, I identify as a LGBTQIA+, Kink, Disability, and Gender Affirming provider. The experiences of marginalized, minoritized, and disenfranchised communities remain at the forefront of my clinical work.
Welcome! I am glad you are here. As a mental health professional, I provide support and intervention for a variety of psychological, career, academic, and relational experiences across the lifespan to diverse persons. This includes services to individuals, various partner structures, families, and groups. My work centers on decolonization and destigmatization of mental health services with emphasis on culturally-affirming care. As such, I identify as a LGBTQIA+, Kink, Disability, and Gender Affirming provider. The experiences of marginalized, minoritized, and disenfranchised communities remain at the forefront of my clinical work.
(734) 875-9115 x113 View (734) 875-9115 x113
Photo of Amy Lynn Ver Wey, Limited Licensed Psychologist in Belknap Lookout, Grand Rapids, MI
Amy Lynn Ver Wey
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP, RPT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Belknap Lookout, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Waitlist for new clients
Amy (she/her) practices an active and interpersonal approach to therapy, incorporating mindfulness, popular culture, art, music, role playing games and technological aspects to modify her treatment on an individualized basis to best meet the needs of her clients. Amy identifies as a queer therapist and strives to create a genuinely warm and inclusive therapeutic environment based upon empathy, resiliency and a relatable atmosphere to help normalize mental health services.
Amy (she/her) practices an active and interpersonal approach to therapy, incorporating mindfulness, popular culture, art, music, role playing games and technological aspects to modify her treatment on an individualized basis to best meet the needs of her clients. Amy identifies as a queer therapist and strives to create a genuinely warm and inclusive therapeutic environment based upon empathy, resiliency and a relatable atmosphere to help normalize mental health services.
(219) 979-6696 View (219) 979-6696
Photo of Micah J. White, Psychologist in Belknap Lookout, Grand Rapids, MI
Micah J. White
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Belknap Lookout, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Life can be difficult and sometimes we find ourselves feeling stuck, stressed, and lost. I seek to provide an affirming, nonjudgmental, and compassionate therapeutic environment to help you navigate life’s challenges and work toward a healthier and more meaningful life. My work involves helping people to explore the impact of past experiences, understand unhelpful patterns in their thinking and relationships, process painful emotions, and learn new skills to cope with their distress.
Life can be difficult and sometimes we find ourselves feeling stuck, stressed, and lost. I seek to provide an affirming, nonjudgmental, and compassionate therapeutic environment to help you navigate life’s challenges and work toward a healthier and more meaningful life. My work involves helping people to explore the impact of past experiences, understand unhelpful patterns in their thinking and relationships, process painful emotions, and learn new skills to cope with their distress.
(231) 412-4669 View (231) 412-4669
Photo of Alayna Zielinski, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Belknap Lookout, Grand Rapids, MI
Alayna Zielinski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Belknap Lookout, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Hi! I am happy that you're here. Self improvement is hard work but you don’t have to do it alone. If you're feeling bothered or hopeless by things that you have no control over and are struggling with acceptance, or if you’re feeling depressed or anxious, I am here to help. Dealing with any degree of mental health struggle causes trauma to our brains and bodies. That is why I always encourage and model self compassion and understanding, and why I encourage my clients to challenge their core beliefs if they are hard on themselves. We are our own worst critics as the saying goes, but it doesn’t have to be.
Hi! I am happy that you're here. Self improvement is hard work but you don’t have to do it alone. If you're feeling bothered or hopeless by things that you have no control over and are struggling with acceptance, or if you’re feeling depressed or anxious, I am here to help. Dealing with any degree of mental health struggle causes trauma to our brains and bodies. That is why I always encourage and model self compassion and understanding, and why I encourage my clients to challenge their core beliefs if they are hard on themselves. We are our own worst critics as the saying goes, but it doesn’t have to be.
(616) 344-5291 View (616) 344-5291
Claire Victoria Graves
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CAADC
Verified Verified
Belknap Lookout, Grand Rapids, MI 49505
Claire practices an eclectic, person-centered, trauma-informed approach to therapy. Claire has significant experience working with adults struggling with substance use disorders, co-occurring mental health issues, and intimate partner violence. Claire practices an inclusive and holistic approach to therapy, utilizing evidence-based interventions and creative approaches to meet individual client needs. Claire believes in practicing from an intersectional, trauma-informed, gender affirmative perspective, with specific emphasis on assisting clients in developing skills to more effectively navigate their unique life circumstances.
Claire practices an eclectic, person-centered, trauma-informed approach to therapy. Claire has significant experience working with adults struggling with substance use disorders, co-occurring mental health issues, and intimate partner violence. Claire practices an inclusive and holistic approach to therapy, utilizing evidence-based interventions and creative approaches to meet individual client needs. Claire believes in practicing from an intersectional, trauma-informed, gender affirmative perspective, with specific emphasis on assisting clients in developing skills to more effectively navigate their unique life circumstances.
(616) 303-4143 View (616) 303-4143
Photo of River City Psychological Services, Psychologist in Belknap Lookout, Grand Rapids, MI
River City Psychological Services
Psychologist, PhD, LP, CAADC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Belknap Lookout, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Sometimes life can present us with difficulties, as well as opportunities, that we don't expect or aren't sure how to handle. Many people find ways of healing, growing, and even striving through the counseling process. Once you've decided to seek out psychotherapy, finding the therapist who is the right fit for you can feel overwhelming. The psychologists, professional counselors and social workers at River City Psychological Services (RCPS) strive to create a safe environment where people can grow and heal.
Sometimes life can present us with difficulties, as well as opportunities, that we don't expect or aren't sure how to handle. Many people find ways of healing, growing, and even striving through the counseling process. Once you've decided to seek out psychotherapy, finding the therapist who is the right fit for you can feel overwhelming. The psychologists, professional counselors and social workers at River City Psychological Services (RCPS) strive to create a safe environment where people can grow and heal.
(616) 920-8113 View (616) 920-8113
Photo of Nicole Fix, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Belknap Lookout, Grand Rapids, MI
Nicole Fix
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Belknap Lookout, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Sharing your story takes courage, but can be one of the most powerful aspects in guiding you towards positive change. Therapy offers you this opportunity. It is a time where it is all about you. Just you and your story. My approach has been described as nonjudgmental, empathic, and supportive. My goal is to help you be present with your story, where you can be witnessed and understood in a compassionate way and therefore, helping you to be more connected to yourself, others, and the world around you.
Sharing your story takes courage, but can be one of the most powerful aspects in guiding you towards positive change. Therapy offers you this opportunity. It is a time where it is all about you. Just you and your story. My approach has been described as nonjudgmental, empathic, and supportive. My goal is to help you be present with your story, where you can be witnessed and understood in a compassionate way and therefore, helping you to be more connected to yourself, others, and the world around you.
(616) 710-4031 View (616) 710-4031
Photo of Dr. Nicole Olivas, Psychologist in Belknap Lookout, Grand Rapids, MI
Dr. Nicole Olivas
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Belknap Lookout, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
I am dedicated to providing high-quality neuropsychological/psychological assessments (ages 9 and up), as well as individual and group therapy services (ages 18 and up). My goal is to help individuals lead more fulfilling lives. I prioritize building a strong therapeutic relationship based on trust and empathy. I am committed to creating a safe and supportive environment where clients can feel heard, understood, and empowered. I am passionate about making the assessment process accessible and understandable for everyone and believe a thorough assessment can provide valuable diagnostic clarity and treatment recommendations.
I am dedicated to providing high-quality neuropsychological/psychological assessments (ages 9 and up), as well as individual and group therapy services (ages 18 and up). My goal is to help individuals lead more fulfilling lives. I prioritize building a strong therapeutic relationship based on trust and empathy. I am committed to creating a safe and supportive environment where clients can feel heard, understood, and empowered. I am passionate about making the assessment process accessible and understandable for everyone and believe a thorough assessment can provide valuable diagnostic clarity and treatment recommendations.
(616) 236-6817 View (616) 236-6817
Photo of Jim Rossi, Psychologist in Belknap Lookout, Grand Rapids, MI
Jim Rossi
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Belknap Lookout, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
I enjoy working with individuals struggling with chronic illness, eating disorders, weight loss, anxiety, depression, interpersonal concerns, and general life stress. I understand that it can be extremely stressful to manage emotional or physical health concerns in our fast paced, high pressure society. Throughout my training, I have admired the people I have worked with who are making transitions and want to examine themselves, their past, and their interpersonal environment to make changes that work for them.
I enjoy working with individuals struggling with chronic illness, eating disorders, weight loss, anxiety, depression, interpersonal concerns, and general life stress. I understand that it can be extremely stressful to manage emotional or physical health concerns in our fast paced, high pressure society. Throughout my training, I have admired the people I have worked with who are making transitions and want to examine themselves, their past, and their interpersonal environment to make changes that work for them.
(616) 326-3249 View (616) 326-3249
Photo of Michael F Mallory, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Belknap Lookout, Grand Rapids, MI
Michael F Mallory
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Belknap Lookout, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
I believe parts of our life are made up of series of losses, and my goal is to help folx manage these losses. Loss can come in many forms; death of a loved one, identity, the future, and more. I help provide the needed support, validation, and evidence-based approaches to the many types of loss life may throw your way. While grief and loss are a huge part of the work I do, I also have experience and enjoy helping others learn to manage anxiety, depression, substance use, relationship issues and other mental health concerns.
I believe parts of our life are made up of series of losses, and my goal is to help folx manage these losses. Loss can come in many forms; death of a loved one, identity, the future, and more. I help provide the needed support, validation, and evidence-based approaches to the many types of loss life may throw your way. While grief and loss are a huge part of the work I do, I also have experience and enjoy helping others learn to manage anxiety, depression, substance use, relationship issues and other mental health concerns.
(773) 309-4637 View (773) 309-4637
Photo of Rob Chapuran, Licensed Professional Counselor in Belknap Lookout, Grand Rapids, MI
Rob Chapuran
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CAADC
Verified Verified
Belknap Lookout, Grand Rapids, MI 49509
Hello! As a therapist, I strive to support individuals in reaching their fullest potential in any areas of life that may be unsatisfactory. I will create a safe space to share conversations and together we will work to reconcile any discomfort. I am humbled to be chosen to walk beside you on this journey and I commend you for taking the first step towards healing. I believe everyone can use extra support at various points in life and therapy can provide a method to learn new tools to have in your arsenal.
Hello! As a therapist, I strive to support individuals in reaching their fullest potential in any areas of life that may be unsatisfactory. I will create a safe space to share conversations and together we will work to reconcile any discomfort. I am humbled to be chosen to walk beside you on this journey and I commend you for taking the first step towards healing. I believe everyone can use extra support at various points in life and therapy can provide a method to learn new tools to have in your arsenal.
(269) 399-3508 View (269) 399-3508
Photo of Yolanda Ivens, Counselor in Belknap Lookout, Grand Rapids, MI
Yolanda Ivens
Counselor, MS , LLPC
Not Verified Not Verified
Belknap Lookout, Grand Rapids, MI 49509
My mission is to provide evidence-based mental health services, education and advocacy in an integrative and holistic way (Biopsychosocial and spiritual) in order to bring about healing and transformation in individuals, families and communities. My career emphasis is on anxiety, depression, substance abuse issues, sexual addictions, sexual trauma, co-occurring disorders, and mid-life issues. I am a cross-culturally competent counselor who highly values and respects cultural differences. I am also committed to life-long learning and being able to make sound ethical decisions within diverse cultural contexts.
My mission is to provide evidence-based mental health services, education and advocacy in an integrative and holistic way (Biopsychosocial and spiritual) in order to bring about healing and transformation in individuals, families and communities. My career emphasis is on anxiety, depression, substance abuse issues, sexual addictions, sexual trauma, co-occurring disorders, and mid-life issues. I am a cross-culturally competent counselor who highly values and respects cultural differences. I am also committed to life-long learning and being able to make sound ethical decisions within diverse cultural contexts.
(616) 345-5932 View (616) 345-5932
Photo of Dennis Langland, Licensed Professional Counselor in Belknap Lookout, Grand Rapids, MI
Dennis Langland
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA LPC
Verified Verified
Belknap Lookout, Grand Rapids, MI 49509
Not accepting new clients
I possess 20 years as a licensed professional counselor working with children, adolescents, young adults, adults and older adults. I offer individual, couples and family counseling. Areas of clinical experience cover Trauma/PTSD, mood disorders (Depression/Bipolar), ADHD, anxiety disorders, grief and loss issues, substance abuse and addiction, healing from physical, mental, emotional, sexual abuse and infidelity, chronic illness, stress/anger management, men's and women's issues, faith/spiritual and existential issues, relational/marital issues, issues around divorce, adoption, school, behavioral issues, and blended family issues.
I possess 20 years as a licensed professional counselor working with children, adolescents, young adults, adults and older adults. I offer individual, couples and family counseling. Areas of clinical experience cover Trauma/PTSD, mood disorders (Depression/Bipolar), ADHD, anxiety disorders, grief and loss issues, substance abuse and addiction, healing from physical, mental, emotional, sexual abuse and infidelity, chronic illness, stress/anger management, men's and women's issues, faith/spiritual and existential issues, relational/marital issues, issues around divorce, adoption, school, behavioral issues, and blended family issues.
(616) 537-6861 View (616) 537-6861
Photo of Alex Houseknecht, Limited Licensed Psychologist in Belknap Lookout, Grand Rapids, MI
Alex Houseknecht
Limited Licensed Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Belknap Lookout, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Not accepting new clients
Our experiences shape how we think, feel, and participate in the world. From individual personality, to family of origin, to cultural context, the interaction of internal and external can result in feelings of depression or anxiety, difficulty in relationships, or confusion about identity. Sometimes all that’s needed is short-term help that focuses on developing better coping skills, and other times deep, long-term, insight-oriented work is necessary to disentangle complex lifelong difficulties.
Our experiences shape how we think, feel, and participate in the world. From individual personality, to family of origin, to cultural context, the interaction of internal and external can result in feelings of depression or anxiety, difficulty in relationships, or confusion about identity. Sometimes all that’s needed is short-term help that focuses on developing better coping skills, and other times deep, long-term, insight-oriented work is necessary to disentangle complex lifelong difficulties.
(616) 207-2267 View (616) 207-2267
Photo of Kerry N. Beduna, Psychologist in Belknap Lookout, Grand Rapids, MI
Kerry N. Beduna
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Belknap Lookout, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Not accepting new clients
I am not accepting new clients at this time. Sometimes we need to be reminded that struggling does not mean that we are weak, broken, or unworthy. It helps to connect with someone who knows that your story is worth listening to. I want your story to be heard and valued without judgment. By providing a safe environment, I help people develop compassion for how their past and current experiences have impacted them and explore new ways of being, thinking, and feeling. I believe that it is the strength of the therapeutic relationship and the goals you create together which builds meaningful change.
I am not accepting new clients at this time. Sometimes we need to be reminded that struggling does not mean that we are weak, broken, or unworthy. It helps to connect with someone who knows that your story is worth listening to. I want your story to be heard and valued without judgment. By providing a safe environment, I help people develop compassion for how their past and current experiences have impacted them and explore new ways of being, thinking, and feeling. I believe that it is the strength of the therapeutic relationship and the goals you create together which builds meaningful change.
(616) 427-1718 View (616) 427-1718

Online Therapists

Photo of Elizabeth Ann Johnson, Pre-Licensed Professional in Belknap Lookout, Grand Rapids, MI
Elizabeth Ann Johnson
Pre-Licensed Professional, LLMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49505  (Online Only)
My clients encompass a wide range of mental health challenges, from depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD to addictions, grief, and trauma DV survivors.
If you've ever found yourself in a situation where you needed support but didn't know where to turn, you're not alone. I recall my initial attempts at seeking therapy in my younger days, where encounters with judgmental counselors deterred me from seeking help for a while. As life unfolded, it became evident that something wasn't right, prompting me to persistently search for a compassionate guide who would listen without judgment and aid me in my healing journey.
My clients encompass a wide range of mental health challenges, from depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD to addictions, grief, and trauma DV survivors.
If you've ever found yourself in a situation where you needed support but didn't know where to turn, you're not alone. I recall my initial attempts at seeking therapy in my younger days, where encounters with judgmental counselors deterred me from seeking help for a while. As life unfolded, it became evident that something wasn't right, prompting me to persistently search for a compassionate guide who would listen without judgment and aid me in my healing journey.
(616) 219-0097 View (616) 219-0097
Photo of Christopher Lawitzke, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Belknap Lookout, Grand Rapids, MI
Christopher Lawitzke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
Chris Lawitzke is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with more than 3.5 years of experience. He works with teens, adults, and seniors to identify their goals and work through issues related to addictive disorders, anxiety disorders, behavioral modification, bipolar disorders, borderline personality disorder (BPD), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), depression, LGBTQIA+-related issues, PTSD, stress, and more.
Chris Lawitzke is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with more than 3.5 years of experience. He works with teens, adults, and seniors to identify their goals and work through issues related to addictive disorders, anxiety disorders, behavioral modification, bipolar disorders, borderline personality disorder (BPD), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), depression, LGBTQIA+-related issues, PTSD, stress, and more.
(616) 303-5282 View (616) 303-5282
Photo of Liz Johnson, Pre-Licensed Professional in Belknap Lookout, Grand Rapids, MI
Liz Johnson
Pre-Licensed Professional, LLMSW
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49505
My clients encompass a wide range of mental health challenges, from depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and PTSD to addictions, grief, and DV survivors.
If you've ever found yourself in a situation where you needed support but didn't know where to turn, you're not alone. I recall my initial attempts at seeking therapy in my younger days, where encounters with judgmental counselors deterred me from seeking help for a while. As life unfolded, it became evident that something wasn't right, prompting me to persistently search for a compassionate guide who would listen without judgment and aid me in my healing journey.
My clients encompass a wide range of mental health challenges, from depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and PTSD to addictions, grief, and DV survivors.
If you've ever found yourself in a situation where you needed support but didn't know where to turn, you're not alone. I recall my initial attempts at seeking therapy in my younger days, where encounters with judgmental counselors deterred me from seeking help for a while. As life unfolded, it became evident that something wasn't right, prompting me to persistently search for a compassionate guide who would listen without judgment and aid me in my healing journey.
(616) 326-3232 View (616) 326-3232

See more therapy options for Belknap Lookout, Grand Rapids

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.