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Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Los Angeles, CA

Photo of Alyson DiRocco Fisher, PsyD, Psychologist
Alyson DiRocco Fisher
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90064
I specialize in treating bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, depression, and anxiety.
Connecting with the right therapist can be challenging. As a clinician, I strive to empower clients to make meaningful changes, while also helping them hold self-compassion in the process. I ground my work in evidence-based therapies, and use an in-depth case conceptualization to understand how problems are getting in the way of the life my clients want to lead.
I specialize in treating bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, depression, and anxiety.
Connecting with the right therapist can be challenging. As a clinician, I strive to empower clients to make meaningful changes, while also helping them hold self-compassion in the process. I ground my work in evidence-based therapies, and use an in-depth case conceptualization to understand how problems are getting in the way of the life my clients want to lead.
(310) 564-0785 View (310) 564-0785
Photo of Marcos Andrade, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Marcos Andrade
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90064
I have worked in community mental health, where I've supported clients grappling with bipolar disorder, addiction, substance abuse, and chronic mental health issues.
What's holding you back from starting your journey towards a brighter, more fulfilling life? I'm all about embracing authenticity and diving into your experiences and future aspirations. My approach is sincere and down-to-earth, bringing warmth, genuineness, and inclusivity into our therapy sessions together. I believe that therapy is a team effort where your needs and goals are what matter most. Clients like you can feel comfortable knowing I'm here to help you with compassion, creating a space where you can truly be yourself. I work with children, teens, adults, couples, and families. ¡Hablo español!
I have worked in community mental health, where I've supported clients grappling with bipolar disorder, addiction, substance abuse, and chronic mental health issues.
What's holding you back from starting your journey towards a brighter, more fulfilling life? I'm all about embracing authenticity and diving into your experiences and future aspirations. My approach is sincere and down-to-earth, bringing warmth, genuineness, and inclusivity into our therapy sessions together. I believe that therapy is a team effort where your needs and goals are what matter most. Clients like you can feel comfortable knowing I'm here to help you with compassion, creating a space where you can truly be yourself. I work with children, teens, adults, couples, and families. ¡Hablo español!
(310) 907-9456 View (310) 907-9456
Photo of Adella Jaeger, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Adella Jaeger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90064
 My areas of expertise include depression and anxiety, bipolar, child development, parenting, teens and maternal health.
Are you feeling "stuck," overwhelmed, or find yourself worrying about things beyond your control? You are looking for the right therapist, someone who will not only "get you," but will actually help you. I am not a stereotypical "so how does that make you feel" therapist. Yes, I am very empathetic, down to earth, caring, and intuitive.. And I am also practical. As a therapist with over a decade of experience, I am actively involved, goal oriented, and realistic. I am skilled at providing both traditional and cutting-edge therapies, using invaluable tools that can open the doors for the insight and clarity that you are searching for.
 My areas of expertise include depression and anxiety, bipolar, child development, parenting, teens and maternal health.
Are you feeling "stuck," overwhelmed, or find yourself worrying about things beyond your control? You are looking for the right therapist, someone who will not only "get you," but will actually help you. I am not a stereotypical "so how does that make you feel" therapist. Yes, I am very empathetic, down to earth, caring, and intuitive.. And I am also practical. As a therapist with over a decade of experience, I am actively involved, goal oriented, and realistic. I am skilled at providing both traditional and cutting-edge therapies, using invaluable tools that can open the doors for the insight and clarity that you are searching for.
(702) 710-0826 View (702) 710-0826
Photo of Bram Conley, MA, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Bram Conley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90025  (Online Only)
My experience with treating major psychiatric disorders and substance abuse allows me to help clients with bipolar disorder, major depression, schizophrenia, and anxiety disorders such as OCD, panic disorder and generalized anxiety. In addition to providing treatment for these types of problems, I have experience working with the families of adults and adolescents who are experiencing serious psychiatric problems.
My experience with treating major psychiatric disorders and substance abuse allows me to help clients with bipolar disorder, major depression, schizophrenia, and anxiety disorders such as OCD, panic disorder and generalized anxiety. In addition to providing treatment for these types of problems, I have experience working with the families of adults and adolescents who are experiencing serious psychiatric problems.
(424) 343-1715 View (424) 343-1715
Photo of Katja D Pohl, PsyD, Psychologist
Katja D Pohl
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90049
My expertise include trauma, chronic illness/pain, bipolar disorder, addiction, and relationship problems.
Life can be hard and at times we need help. Through mutual collaboration we will get to know you, where you get stuck, your relationships, and how to create lasting and meaningful change in your life. Positive change through therapy can provide you with more stability, greater self-confidence, more compassion for yourself and others, increased satisfaction with your life, improved relationships, a feeling of satisfaction and ease about daily life, and the ability to take risks and advance professionally.
My expertise include trauma, chronic illness/pain, bipolar disorder, addiction, and relationship problems.
Life can be hard and at times we need help. Through mutual collaboration we will get to know you, where you get stuck, your relationships, and how to create lasting and meaningful change in your life. Positive change through therapy can provide you with more stability, greater self-confidence, more compassion for yourself and others, increased satisfaction with your life, improved relationships, a feeling of satisfaction and ease about daily life, and the ability to take risks and advance professionally.
(424) 230-8665 View (424) 230-8665
Photo of Christopher Joel Tromba, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Christopher Joel Tromba
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90028
I specialize in working with adolescents and adults struggling with Bipolar, Depression, Relationship difficulties, and adjusting to the changes life brings.
You deserve a safe environment where you feel free to express yourself and seek to understand what makes you, you. I am excited about the power of the therapeutic process, and believe that working together we may achieve the change you seek.
I specialize in working with adolescents and adults struggling with Bipolar, Depression, Relationship difficulties, and adjusting to the changes life brings.
You deserve a safe environment where you feel free to express yourself and seek to understand what makes you, you. I am excited about the power of the therapeutic process, and believe that working together we may achieve the change you seek.
(805) 870-8901 View (805) 870-8901
Photo of Lana Cohen, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Lana Cohen
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90028
You're feeling depressed, isolated, frustrated and angry with the state of the world. And yet you're still expected to keep up with overwhelming pressures and demands of day to day life. It can feel impossible. All this stress can cause us to lose sight of what’s important and end up stuck in the same unhelpful patterns in our work, our relationships, and our own thoughts. But it doesn't have to be this way. What if you could get back in touch with your hopes, dreams, and desires? I work with clients struggling with bipolar disorder or depression, job and career stress, loneliness, and relationship conflicts.
You're feeling depressed, isolated, frustrated and angry with the state of the world. And yet you're still expected to keep up with overwhelming pressures and demands of day to day life. It can feel impossible. All this stress can cause us to lose sight of what’s important and end up stuck in the same unhelpful patterns in our work, our relationships, and our own thoughts. But it doesn't have to be this way. What if you could get back in touch with your hopes, dreams, and desires? I work with clients struggling with bipolar disorder or depression, job and career stress, loneliness, and relationship conflicts.
(747) 269-6061 View (747) 269-6061
Photo of Davis Lo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Davis Lo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90071  (Online Only)
I have worked with various age groups from teens to older adults that struggle with psychosis, anxiety, depression, trauma, bipolar, and social issues.
Do you feel stuck or lost? Almost like no matter what you do you cannot get out of your current situation? Are you having difficulty coping? Sometimes life happens and it can be overwhelming to deal with everything. Do you need someone who will listen, be compassionate, and non judgemental? Well look no further! By working together, your life can be easier. You will be able to identify your stressors, thought patterns, and challenges that gets in your way of moving forward in life.
I have worked with various age groups from teens to older adults that struggle with psychosis, anxiety, depression, trauma, bipolar, and social issues.
Do you feel stuck or lost? Almost like no matter what you do you cannot get out of your current situation? Are you having difficulty coping? Sometimes life happens and it can be overwhelming to deal with everything. Do you need someone who will listen, be compassionate, and non judgemental? Well look no further! By working together, your life can be easier. You will be able to identify your stressors, thought patterns, and challenges that gets in your way of moving forward in life.
(562) 566-3553 View (562) 566-3553
Photo of Mason Nutter, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mason Nutter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90057
My name is Mason Nutter, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I approach therapy in a very person-centered and collaborative way. I am particularly focused on anxiety, depression, mood disorders, substance use, and relapse prevention. I have worked in the mental health field for many years. I have treated patients with depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, anxiety disorders, and substance abuse disorders. I have primarily worked with adult individuals.
My name is Mason Nutter, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I approach therapy in a very person-centered and collaborative way. I am particularly focused on anxiety, depression, mood disorders, substance use, and relapse prevention. I have worked in the mental health field for many years. I have treated patients with depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, anxiety disorders, and substance abuse disorders. I have primarily worked with adult individuals.
(510) 518-3935 View (510) 518-3935
Photo of Dr. Alan E Clark, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Alan E Clark
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90064  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with over 35 years of private practice experience. I trained within APA-accredited doctoral programs and internship programs. I am licensed to practice psychology in both California and Colorado. I specialize in treating couples and individual adults presenting with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, grief, substance abuse, and relational conflict and dissatisfaction. I am trained in psycho-dynamic psychotherapy, but I also apply cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness, and interpersonal psychotherapy techniques to address the best methods for each individual and his or her issues and needs.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with over 35 years of private practice experience. I trained within APA-accredited doctoral programs and internship programs. I am licensed to practice psychology in both California and Colorado. I specialize in treating couples and individual adults presenting with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, grief, substance abuse, and relational conflict and dissatisfaction. I am trained in psycho-dynamic psychotherapy, but I also apply cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness, and interpersonal psychotherapy techniques to address the best methods for each individual and his or her issues and needs.
(310) 660-7462 View (310) 660-7462
Photo of Maria Barelli, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maria Barelli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90041  (Online Only)
Are you struggling at work? Maybe you're having difficulties in your relationships. Or do you want to feel more confident about yourself? During difficult times, I will help you find new ways of managing your life by teaching you coping skills. Do you beat yourself up? Therapy will teach you how to be kind to yourself. I like to do "what works". I pull from different approaches because every client is unique. My style of relating is warm and empathetic. I currently work with individuals, couples, teens, and families with issues including: Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, and Substance abuse.
Are you struggling at work? Maybe you're having difficulties in your relationships. Or do you want to feel more confident about yourself? During difficult times, I will help you find new ways of managing your life by teaching you coping skills. Do you beat yourself up? Therapy will teach you how to be kind to yourself. I like to do "what works". I pull from different approaches because every client is unique. My style of relating is warm and empathetic. I currently work with individuals, couples, teens, and families with issues including: Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, and Substance abuse.
(626) 236-4971 View (626) 236-4971
Photo of Chris Marrero, PsyD, Psychologist
Chris Marrero
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025
Hello. Thanks for visiting my page. I am the founder of Marrero Psychology, Santa Monica's premier holistic mental healthcare clinic specializing in addressing the needs of professionals and students. My areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder. My clients experience relief from symptoms in addition to higher self-esteem, better sleep, stronger relationships, greater focus, and more satisfaction at work or school. I am passionate about helping people reach their goals and bring greater happiness and mental health into their lives.
Hello. Thanks for visiting my page. I am the founder of Marrero Psychology, Santa Monica's premier holistic mental healthcare clinic specializing in addressing the needs of professionals and students. My areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder. My clients experience relief from symptoms in addition to higher self-esteem, better sleep, stronger relationships, greater focus, and more satisfaction at work or school. I am passionate about helping people reach their goals and bring greater happiness and mental health into their lives.
(424) 375-6014 View (424) 375-6014
Photo of Leslie Margolis, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Leslie Margolis
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90069
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist as well as a Psychoanalytic candidate. In my work I aim to foster a safe, non-judgmental atmosphere in which individuals can develop insight and address non-productive patterns of behavior. I am experienced in treating a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder. I have successfully worked with individuals who were subjected to parental narcissism, neglect, abuse, and other difficult and painful circumstances. I am also experienced in working with newly single individuals who are struggling to redefine their lives.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist as well as a Psychoanalytic candidate. In my work I aim to foster a safe, non-judgmental atmosphere in which individuals can develop insight and address non-productive patterns of behavior. I am experienced in treating a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder. I have successfully worked with individuals who were subjected to parental narcissism, neglect, abuse, and other difficult and painful circumstances. I am also experienced in working with newly single individuals who are struggling to redefine their lives.
(424) 295-7352 View (424) 295-7352
Photo of Krista Edwards, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Krista Edwards
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90025  (Online Only)
Welcome my name is Krista Edwards I’m a licensed in the state of California and Arizona. I have 20 + year of experience in the field of 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. With such vast of knowledge, I believe I am qualified to assist you move on to the next phase of your journey.
Welcome my name is Krista Edwards I’m a licensed in the state of California and Arizona. I have 20 + year of experience in the field of 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. With such vast of knowledge, I believe I am qualified to assist you move on to the next phase of your journey.
(951) 904-6484 View (951) 904-6484
Photo of Lauren Steffel, PsyD, Psychologist
Lauren Steffel
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
18 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90036  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating PTSD/trauma, addiction, BPD, mood disorders including bipolar I & II, and anxiety disorders.
Are you looking for an active, evidence-based approach to address trauma, overwhelming emotions, anxiety, or addiction? If you feel stuck in sadness, fear, worry, or shame, we will use proven techniques from CBT, DBT, ACT, EMDR, and mindfulness to not just reduce your symptoms, but help you build a life worth living. Together, we will identify and understand beliefs or patterns of response that hold you back. With compassion and humor, I will help you stop avoiding, face your fears, and live according to the values and goals that matter most to you. I am licensed in CA (30891), NY (021345), VA (0810008541) and FL (TPPY1954).
I specialize in treating PTSD/trauma, addiction, BPD, mood disorders including bipolar I & II, and anxiety disorders.
Are you looking for an active, evidence-based approach to address trauma, overwhelming emotions, anxiety, or addiction? If you feel stuck in sadness, fear, worry, or shame, we will use proven techniques from CBT, DBT, ACT, EMDR, and mindfulness to not just reduce your symptoms, but help you build a life worth living. Together, we will identify and understand beliefs or patterns of response that hold you back. With compassion and humor, I will help you stop avoiding, face your fears, and live according to the values and goals that matter most to you. I am licensed in CA (30891), NY (021345), VA (0810008541) and FL (TPPY1954).
(310) 904-6013 View (310) 904-6013
Photo of Courtnee Reis, LPCC, Counselor
Courtnee Reis
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90048  (Online Only)
I am experienced in working with adults living with bipolar and mood disorders, anxiety, schizophrenia, depression, and phase of life transitions.
Hello and welcome! I'm Courtnee, a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. Whether you are engaging in therapy for the first time or returning to treatment, I am here to meet you where you are and go at your pace. I draw from a person-centered approach which promotes authenticity and emphasizes building your strengths. I will offer insights and observations as we explore matters that are impacting your life. In therapy, together we will collaborate on your growth, healing, self-care, and developing coping strategies so you can make effective life changes.
I am experienced in working with adults living with bipolar and mood disorders, anxiety, schizophrenia, depression, and phase of life transitions.
Hello and welcome! I'm Courtnee, a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. Whether you are engaging in therapy for the first time or returning to treatment, I am here to meet you where you are and go at your pace. I draw from a person-centered approach which promotes authenticity and emphasizes building your strengths. I will offer insights and observations as we explore matters that are impacting your life. In therapy, together we will collaborate on your growth, healing, self-care, and developing coping strategies so you can make effective life changes.
(323) 970-3049 View (323) 970-3049
Photo of Scott C Musgrove, PsyD, LMFT, Psychologist
Scott C Musgrove
Psychologist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90036
My areas of expertise include Social Anxiety, Depression, Sexuality and Sexual Health, Bipolar Disorder, Grief, Life Transition, Relationship Issues, Internet Abuse, Legal Issues, Special Training in Social Habituation.
I am not currently accepting new clients. Welcome! Individual therapy is a powerful way to discover the thoughts, feelings and actions that prevent you from experiencing more fulfilling relationships in life. I help clients develop an understanding of the challenges and obstacles that currently exist for them, as well as providing tools that support life long balance and behavioral change. Rather than blaming and remaining mired in the past, you and I collaborate on the best path for movement forward.
My areas of expertise include Social Anxiety, Depression, Sexuality and Sexual Health, Bipolar Disorder, Grief, Life Transition, Relationship Issues, Internet Abuse, Legal Issues, Special Training in Social Habituation.
I am not currently accepting new clients. Welcome! Individual therapy is a powerful way to discover the thoughts, feelings and actions that prevent you from experiencing more fulfilling relationships in life. I help clients develop an understanding of the challenges and obstacles that currently exist for them, as well as providing tools that support life long balance and behavioral change. Rather than blaming and remaining mired in the past, you and I collaborate on the best path for movement forward.
(323) 306-7983 View (323) 306-7983
Photo of Hayley Howard, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Hayley Howard
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90006
Hi! My name is Hayley Howard, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California. I work primarily with adults with anxiety, and depression, and throughout various life transitions via modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Integrated/Holistic Health. In my experience thus far as a therapist, I have found a deep connection to adult clients that are motivated to address various mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and life transitions.
Hi! My name is Hayley Howard, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California. I work primarily with adults with anxiety, and depression, and throughout various life transitions via modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Integrated/Holistic Health. In my experience thus far as a therapist, I have found a deep connection to adult clients that are motivated to address various mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and life transitions.
(213) 320-6904 View (213) 320-6904
Photo of Nicole Pope, ASW
Nicole Pope
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90010  (Online Only)
Congratulations on taking the courageous step of seeking treatment for your mental health! I understand that searching for a therapist can sometimes add to the stress of seeking mental health care! I am an associate clinical social worker with nearly 10 years of experience in the mental health field. Initially, my focus was exclusively on adolescents aged 13-17 grappling with challenges such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, suicidal thoughts, self-harm, eating disorders, PTSD, trauma, substance abuse, and psychosis. As I progressed practicing, I transitioned to working with adults as well as teens.
Congratulations on taking the courageous step of seeking treatment for your mental health! I understand that searching for a therapist can sometimes add to the stress of seeking mental health care! I am an associate clinical social worker with nearly 10 years of experience in the mental health field. Initially, my focus was exclusively on adolescents aged 13-17 grappling with challenges such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, suicidal thoughts, self-harm, eating disorders, PTSD, trauma, substance abuse, and psychosis. As I progressed practicing, I transitioned to working with adults as well as teens.
(310) 564-7369 View (310) 564-7369
Photo of undefined - DTLA Couples Counseling & Adoption Evaluations, PsyD, MDiv, Psychologist
DTLA Couples Counseling & Adoption Evaluations
Psychologist, PsyD, MDiv
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90071  (Online Only)
I serve couples/throuples who are in one of two kinds of situations. 1) At least one person is so hurt or hopeless they aren't sure whether they want to stay in the relationship. 2) Everyone wants to keep this relationship; they want it to be the best version of the relationship. And they're having trouble getting there....Many of my clients are also dealing with schizophrenia, traumas, or bipolar disorder....And I do evaluations for couples adopting from India.
I serve couples/throuples who are in one of two kinds of situations. 1) At least one person is so hurt or hopeless they aren't sure whether they want to stay in the relationship. 2) Everyone wants to keep this relationship; they want it to be the best version of the relationship. And they're having trouble getting there....Many of my clients are also dealing with schizophrenia, traumas, or bipolar disorder....And I do evaluations for couples adopting from India.
(562) 837-0118 View (562) 837-0118

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.