Bipolar Disorder Therapists in East York, ON

Photo of Toula Kourgiantakis, PhD, MSW, CFT, Registered Social Worker
Toula Kourgiantakis
Registered Social Worker, PhD, MSW, CFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
East York, ON M4G  (Online Only)
I also support families of youth and young adults with mental health challenges, such as psychosis, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, and borderline personality disorder, as well as substance use issues and behavioural addictions.
I am a social worker and a couple and family therapist with 30 years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families. In couple therapy, my approach often involves helping couples repair and strengthen their relationships, reduce conflict, improve communication, and enhance emotional and physical intimacy. For families supporting a loved one with mental health and/or addiction-related concerns, I can help strengthen coping skills, self-care, communication, and boundaries.
I also support families of youth and young adults with mental health challenges, such as psychosis, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, and borderline personality disorder, as well as substance use issues and behavioural addictions.
I am a social worker and a couple and family therapist with 30 years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families. In couple therapy, my approach often involves helping couples repair and strengthen their relationships, reduce conflict, improve communication, and enhance emotional and physical intimacy. For families supporting a loved one with mental health and/or addiction-related concerns, I can help strengthen coping skills, self-care, communication, and boundaries.
(855) 848-2034 View (855) 848-2034
Photo of Dr. Jeffrey Letourneau - Starling Psychological Services, PhD, Psychologist
Starling Psychological Services
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
East York, ON M4K
Our clinic specializes in the treatment of mood disorders (with a special focus on Bipolar Disorder), anxiety disorders, trauma, and many other mental health concerns.
Starling Psychological Services is a multidisciplinary mental health clinic offering therapy services to adults in Ontario. Our goal is to provide professional and ethical psychotherapy for a range of mental health concerns and everyday problems. Our team of psychologists, social workers, and psychotherapists has extensive training and experience helping our clients to improve symptoms and develop the skills and strategies needed to make positive changes in their lives. We take a collaborative approach to counselling and work with our clients to set therapy goals and create a treatment plan to address them.
Our clinic specializes in the treatment of mood disorders (with a special focus on Bipolar Disorder), anxiety disorders, trauma, and many other mental health concerns.
Starling Psychological Services is a multidisciplinary mental health clinic offering therapy services to adults in Ontario. Our goal is to provide professional and ethical psychotherapy for a range of mental health concerns and everyday problems. Our team of psychologists, social workers, and psychotherapists has extensive training and experience helping our clients to improve symptoms and develop the skills and strategies needed to make positive changes in their lives. We take a collaborative approach to counselling and work with our clients to set therapy goals and create a treatment plan to address them.
(866) 383-6128 View (866) 383-6128
Photo of Alessandra Marques, BSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Alessandra Marques
Registered Social Worker, BSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
East York, ON M4C  (Online Only)
I offer psychotherapy for a range of issues including Adjustment Disorder, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder and other mental health symptoms.
Hello! I’m so glad you are here. Starting therapy is a big deal, and finding the right therapist is key. My name is Alessandra and I’m passionate about helping people who are navigating difficult life transitions. If you are felling stuck and overwhelmed about life, I would like to help. Thank you for reaching out and taking the first courageous step in your journey toward greater health.
I offer psychotherapy for a range of issues including Adjustment Disorder, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder and other mental health symptoms.
Hello! I’m so glad you are here. Starting therapy is a big deal, and finding the right therapist is key. My name is Alessandra and I’m passionate about helping people who are navigating difficult life transitions. If you are felling stuck and overwhelmed about life, I would like to help. Thank you for reaching out and taking the first courageous step in your journey toward greater health.
(647) 722-5904 View (647) 722-5904
Photo of Laura Pearson, Counsellor
Laura Pearson
Counsellor
Verified Verified
East York, ON M4K
Stress and anxiety are a daily part of many people's lives. After all, we live in a fast-paced culture where expectations, from ourselves and others, is ever-increasing. It is understandable to feel strained by your responsibilities, but are they weighing you down more than they are bringing you joy? Perhaps you want to make a life change but don't know how? Through counselling, also known as "talk therapy", I can help put you on the path to reaching your goals and taking control of your life.
Stress and anxiety are a daily part of many people's lives. After all, we live in a fast-paced culture where expectations, from ourselves and others, is ever-increasing. It is understandable to feel strained by your responsibilities, but are they weighing you down more than they are bringing you joy? Perhaps you want to make a life change but don't know how? Through counselling, also known as "talk therapy", I can help put you on the path to reaching your goals and taking control of your life.
(647) 797-8791 View (647) 797-8791
Photo of Suzie Kisimba, DCC, MSW, RSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Suzie Kisimba
Pre-Licensed Professional, DCC, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
East York, ON M4K
My approach and style of therapy is non judgemental and involves the provision of a safe, nurturing, warm and professional environment. I work to help people explore and gain insight into their life challenges, behaviours and problems.I bring my personal and professional knowledge and experiences to all I do in an open and caring manner. I have been practing for 8 years and worked in a variety of mental health settings. Call me, together we are going to gently approach the most difficult or painful subjects that you are going through and work out strategies and techniques to overcome them.
My approach and style of therapy is non judgemental and involves the provision of a safe, nurturing, warm and professional environment. I work to help people explore and gain insight into their life challenges, behaviours and problems.I bring my personal and professional knowledge and experiences to all I do in an open and caring manner. I have been practing for 8 years and worked in a variety of mental health settings. Call me, together we are going to gently approach the most difficult or painful subjects that you are going through and work out strategies and techniques to overcome them.
(289) 807-2794 View (289) 807-2794
Photo of Benn Brisland, MSW, RSW, CYC, Registered Social Worker
Benn Brisland
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, CYC
Verified Verified
East York, ON M4K
I offer brief and long-term individual counseling, to pre-teens, adolescents, adults, and families. I especially welcome queer, trans and gender-diverse clients and those who support them; neurodivergent folks; those wanting to improve their mental health and those wanting to address substance use and/or addiction.
I offer brief and long-term individual counseling, to pre-teens, adolescents, adults, and families. I especially welcome queer, trans and gender-diverse clients and those who support them; neurodivergent folks; those wanting to improve their mental health and those wanting to address substance use and/or addiction.
(437) 371-2433 View (437) 371-2433
Photo of Bethany Good, RSW, PhD, Registered Social Worker
Bethany Good
Registered Social Worker, RSW, PhD
Verified Verified
East York, ON M4W
Bethany has experience working with individuals who have struggled with unexpected setbacks or challenges associated with relationship changes, family changes, loss and grief. Additionally, she has experience supporting individuals with neurodevelopmental traits/ diagnoses, such as ASD, ADHD, learning exceptionalities Gifted and LD. Bethany has experience supporting people with more complex emotional and behavioural difficulties such as anxiety, depression, self-harm, suicidal ideation, histories of developmental trauma, and those with diagnoses of mood and personality disorders, PTSD, and Complex PTSD.
Bethany has experience working with individuals who have struggled with unexpected setbacks or challenges associated with relationship changes, family changes, loss and grief. Additionally, she has experience supporting individuals with neurodevelopmental traits/ diagnoses, such as ASD, ADHD, learning exceptionalities Gifted and LD. Bethany has experience supporting people with more complex emotional and behavioural difficulties such as anxiety, depression, self-harm, suicidal ideation, histories of developmental trauma, and those with diagnoses of mood and personality disorders, PTSD, and Complex PTSD.
(647) 699-7637 View (647) 699-7637
Photo of Andreea Brabete, PhD, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Andreea Brabete
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East York, ON M4C
Life frequently confronts us with moments of overwhelming uncertainty, leaving us feeling stuck, anxious, and unsure about our next moves. The decision to embark on a therapeutic journey often arises from such encounters with life’s challenges. These challenges may manifest as obstacles in our daily lives or when interacting with people, and make us feel persistent anxiety or depression or perhaps just a vague sense of unease, the contemplation of something still taking form – a lingering, unarticulated question residing in our minds.
Life frequently confronts us with moments of overwhelming uncertainty, leaving us feeling stuck, anxious, and unsure about our next moves. The decision to embark on a therapeutic journey often arises from such encounters with life’s challenges. These challenges may manifest as obstacles in our daily lives or when interacting with people, and make us feel persistent anxiety or depression or perhaps just a vague sense of unease, the contemplation of something still taking form – a lingering, unarticulated question residing in our minds.
(437) 747-3821 View (437) 747-3821
Photo of Jennifer Bonilla, BA, CYW, MDiv, Registered Psychotherapist
Jennifer Bonilla
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, CYW, MDiv
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
East York, ON M4H  (Online Only)
Do you often find yourself trapped in the relentless grip of anxiety? Does social anxiety make even simple interactions feel like daunting hurdles? Are you familiar with the never-ending cycle of obsessions and compulsions brought on by OCD? Have irrational fears cast long shadows, consuming your thoughts when confronted with phobias? Do these moments leave you feeling overwhelmed and isolated? The weight of anxiety can be immense, but you don't have to bear it alone. I recognize the unique struggles anxiety presents and am here to journey alongside you, offering unwavering support.
Do you often find yourself trapped in the relentless grip of anxiety? Does social anxiety make even simple interactions feel like daunting hurdles? Are you familiar with the never-ending cycle of obsessions and compulsions brought on by OCD? Have irrational fears cast long shadows, consuming your thoughts when confronted with phobias? Do these moments leave you feeling overwhelmed and isolated? The weight of anxiety can be immense, but you don't have to bear it alone. I recognize the unique struggles anxiety presents and am here to journey alongside you, offering unwavering support.
(437) 747-8486 View (437) 747-8486
Photo of Ralph Lubbers - Advance Health Psychotherapy & Psychology, PhD, CPsych, Psychologist
Advance Health Psychotherapy & Psychology
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
East York, ON M4J
How to find hope? How do you heal the ache you feel inside? If you are lost, engaging in therapy can help you find a way forward! You want to be at PEACE with yourself and the people around you. You want to follow your dreams, be part of something that matters, and live to your LIFE to fullest potential. However, you may be at a low point and feel afraid and alone. You may have more bad days than good days. Regardless of the type of struggle, it is possible to move to a better place.
How to find hope? How do you heal the ache you feel inside? If you are lost, engaging in therapy can help you find a way forward! You want to be at PEACE with yourself and the people around you. You want to follow your dreams, be part of something that matters, and live to your LIFE to fullest potential. However, you may be at a low point and feel afraid and alone. You may have more bad days than good days. Regardless of the type of struggle, it is possible to move to a better place.
(647) 493-3890 View (647) 493-3890
Photo of Sarah Downing, MA, Registered Psychotherapist
Sarah Downing
Registered Psychotherapist, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East York, ON M3C  (Online Only)
Are you seeking support to work through distress, navigate life changes, develop coping strategies, explore goals, build positive mental health habits, or increase your understanding of self and others? Whether you have experience with therapy or are trying therapy for the first time, I would like for us to join forces.
Are you seeking support to work through distress, navigate life changes, develop coping strategies, explore goals, build positive mental health habits, or increase your understanding of self and others? Whether you have experience with therapy or are trying therapy for the first time, I would like for us to join forces.
(647) 370-0747 View (647) 370-0747
Photo of Jocelyn Hsu, BSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Jocelyn Hsu
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
East York, ON M4C  (Online Only)
Perhaps you’re feeling stuck, like life is especially hard right now. You might be overwhelmed by current challenges, exhausted from past trauma, or anxious about the future. If you’re ready to focus on growth and mental well-being, I’m here to support you. With over 18 years of experience working with clients from diverse backgrounds, I’ve helped many through tough situations, including trauma across various stages of life. I offer individual, couple, and family sessions, each tailored to meet your unique needs as you face these challenges.
Perhaps you’re feeling stuck, like life is especially hard right now. You might be overwhelmed by current challenges, exhausted from past trauma, or anxious about the future. If you’re ready to focus on growth and mental well-being, I’m here to support you. With over 18 years of experience working with clients from diverse backgrounds, I’ve helped many through tough situations, including trauma across various stages of life. I offer individual, couple, and family sessions, each tailored to meet your unique needs as you face these challenges.
(289) 206-8777 View (289) 206-8777
Photo of Andrea Sadler, OT Reg, (ONT), Occupational Therapist
Andrea Sadler
Occupational Therapist, OT Reg, (ONT)
Verified Verified
East York, ON M4J
Not accepting new clients
I am a Psychotherapist/ Occupational Therapist, graduating from Queen's University in 1994. I have spent my career building an expertise in the field of Mental Health working in hospital, community and private practice settings. I have received additional training and certificates in treatment modalities such as Emotion Focused Therapy, Acceptance Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Interpersonal Psychotherapy, Narrative therapy, PGAP and have offered treatment both in individual and group settings.
I am a Psychotherapist/ Occupational Therapist, graduating from Queen's University in 1994. I have spent my career building an expertise in the field of Mental Health working in hospital, community and private practice settings. I have received additional training and certificates in treatment modalities such as Emotion Focused Therapy, Acceptance Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Interpersonal Psychotherapy, Narrative therapy, PGAP and have offered treatment both in individual and group settings.
(416) 554-7630 View (416) 554-7630

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Greg Rennie - Bipolar Disorder And Addiction Specialist, BSW, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Greg Rennie - Bipolar Disorder And Addiction Specialist
Registered Psychotherapist, BSW, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M4P
I have over 20 years working with clients who are on the bipolar disorder 'spectrum'.
Hello! I’m a Psychotherapist registered with CRPO in Ontario, with 20 years experience helping clients struggling with bipolar disorder, substance abuse/ substance use disorders, sex/ porn addiction and trauma. I’ve worked in mental health and addiction hospitals like Homewood Health Centre and I'm trained in CBT and IPSRT for bipolar disorder. I provide support for families impacted by bipolar disorder. IN-PERSON sessions are available in Toronto. For a free consultation or to book a session go to "website" or call me at (289) 307-5154.
I have over 20 years working with clients who are on the bipolar disorder 'spectrum'.
Hello! I’m a Psychotherapist registered with CRPO in Ontario, with 20 years experience helping clients struggling with bipolar disorder, substance abuse/ substance use disorders, sex/ porn addiction and trauma. I’ve worked in mental health and addiction hospitals like Homewood Health Centre and I'm trained in CBT and IPSRT for bipolar disorder. I provide support for families impacted by bipolar disorder. IN-PERSON sessions are available in Toronto. For a free consultation or to book a session go to "website" or call me at (289) 307-5154.
(289) 307-5154 View (289) 307-5154
Photo of Teak Daniel, BSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Teak Daniel
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M4P
I'm Teak Daniel, a Registered Social Worker (MSW, RSW) who provides individual therapy in British Columbia and Ontario (virtual). My expertise lies in the areas of bipolar disorder and other mood disorders, psychosis, schizophrenia spectrum illnesses, depression and anxiety. I’ve worked exclusively in the area of psychosis and bipolar disorder for the past 13 years. I'm also a husband, a father, a former supervisor to 15+ Masters students. I am also a registered mental health provider with the First Nations Health Authority (FNHA) in BC and can provide direct billing for clients with FNHA coverage.
I'm Teak Daniel, a Registered Social Worker (MSW, RSW) who provides individual therapy in British Columbia and Ontario (virtual). My expertise lies in the areas of bipolar disorder and other mood disorders, psychosis, schizophrenia spectrum illnesses, depression and anxiety. I’ve worked exclusively in the area of psychosis and bipolar disorder for the past 13 years. I'm also a husband, a father, a former supervisor to 15+ Masters students. I am also a registered mental health provider with the First Nations Health Authority (FNHA) in BC and can provide direct billing for clients with FNHA coverage.
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Photo of Gregory Rennie - Bipolar Disorder Therapy, Registered Psychotherapist
Bipolar Disorder Therapy
Registered Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M4P
Greg Rennie has over 20 years experience as a Psychotherapist and specializes in treating Bipolar Disorder, trauma, abuse and addiction often co-occurring in his clients.
As a Psychotherapist and Bipolar Disorder specialist registered with CRPO in Ontario, Greg Rennie is trained in Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy. He has over 20 years experience and 40 years lived experience as two of his family members have Bipolar Disorder. Greg has worked in hospitals like Homewood Health Centre. He provides online therapy for individuals and families impacted by Bipolar Disorder and provides education and support for families impacted by bipolar. Video, phone and text therapy is available. IN-PERSON for Toronto only. For a free consultation go to "website" or call Greg at (289) 401-5610.
Greg Rennie has over 20 years experience as a Psychotherapist and specializes in treating Bipolar Disorder, trauma, abuse and addiction often co-occurring in his clients.
As a Psychotherapist and Bipolar Disorder specialist registered with CRPO in Ontario, Greg Rennie is trained in Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy. He has over 20 years experience and 40 years lived experience as two of his family members have Bipolar Disorder. Greg has worked in hospitals like Homewood Health Centre. He provides online therapy for individuals and families impacted by Bipolar Disorder and provides education and support for families impacted by bipolar. Video, phone and text therapy is available. IN-PERSON for Toronto only. For a free consultation go to "website" or call Greg at (289) 401-5610.
(289) 401-5610 View (289) 401-5610
Photo of Edward McAnanama, BMR(OT), OTReg, MEd, Occupational Therapist
Edward McAnanama
Occupational Therapist, BMR(OT), OTReg, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M4R
Are you and your family member navigating a complex life transition influenced by mental health challenges, addictions, illness, disability, or dementia? Perhaps you find yourself grappling with the unique demands of depression or bipolar disorder or are part of a couple where one partner is affected by these challenges. Maybe you are helping an older family member adjust to the changes that come with aging, including reduced physical capacity and declining cognitive ability. In these challenging situations, you may feel overwhelmed and uncertain about how to cope with the evolving dynamics within your family or relationships.
Are you and your family member navigating a complex life transition influenced by mental health challenges, addictions, illness, disability, or dementia? Perhaps you find yourself grappling with the unique demands of depression or bipolar disorder or are part of a couple where one partner is affected by these challenges. Maybe you are helping an older family member adjust to the changes that come with aging, including reduced physical capacity and declining cognitive ability. In these challenging situations, you may feel overwhelmed and uncertain about how to cope with the evolving dynamics within your family or relationships.
(647) 370-3827 View (647) 370-3827
Photo of Julie Hayden - Dialectical Living, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Dialectical Living
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M4J  (Online Only)
Are you facing any; relationship challenges, substance abuse, self-harm, disordered eating, isolation? Struggling to find effective therapy due to long waitlists? If you're seeking to master Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) skills to regain stability and joy, Dialectical Living is here for you. Our ideal client craves tools for emotional regulation, yearns for healthier relationships, and desires a path to inner peace. DBT has demonstrated success in effectively managing conditions such as bipolar disorder, BPD, ADHD, anxiety, addiction and more. We would be honoured to be a part of your DBT journey. Plant that DBT seed today!
Are you facing any; relationship challenges, substance abuse, self-harm, disordered eating, isolation? Struggling to find effective therapy due to long waitlists? If you're seeking to master Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) skills to regain stability and joy, Dialectical Living is here for you. Our ideal client craves tools for emotional regulation, yearns for healthier relationships, and desires a path to inner peace. DBT has demonstrated success in effectively managing conditions such as bipolar disorder, BPD, ADHD, anxiety, addiction and more. We would be honoured to be a part of your DBT journey. Plant that DBT seed today!
(437) 529-4784 View (437) 529-4784
Photo of Maram Khalif, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Maram Khalif
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
Scarborough, ON M1L  (Online Only)
I work with couples, individuals, lgbtq2s+, neuro-diversity, and transgender/non-binary individuals as well as having/had diagnosis of schizophrenia, bipolar, BPD & NPD.
If you're navigating relationship challenges, exploring self-identity including gender and sexuality, or facing societal limitations, I'm here to support you. My approach is warm, empathetic, and accepting, creating a safe space for you to dream, grow, and heal. Together, we'll address trauma, past injustices, and explore themes of personal power and healthy assertiveness in your life and relationships. Let's collaborate to embrace your full potential.
I work with couples, individuals, lgbtq2s+, neuro-diversity, and transgender/non-binary individuals as well as having/had diagnosis of schizophrenia, bipolar, BPD & NPD.
If you're navigating relationship challenges, exploring self-identity including gender and sexuality, or facing societal limitations, I'm here to support you. My approach is warm, empathetic, and accepting, creating a safe space for you to dream, grow, and heal. Together, we'll address trauma, past injustices, and explore themes of personal power and healthy assertiveness in your life and relationships. Let's collaborate to embrace your full potential.
(647) 691-4344 View (647) 691-4344
Photo of Rubina Adam - Wellth Therapy, MSW, RSW, RSSW, Registered Social Worker
Wellth Therapy
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, RSSW
Verified Verified
North York, ON M1L  (Online Only)
Wellth Therapy has a broad range of clinical experience working with individuals and groups across the life span in the following areas: •Anxiety Disorders •Depression and Bipolar Disorder •Chronic Mental Illness •Behavioral and Discipline Challenges .
At Wellth Therapy my goal is to provide individuals with a safe place to deepen their understanding and learning of their sense of selves based on a firm foundation of empowerment and self awareness. Follow @wellththerapy on Instagram for tips and helpful insights into mental health.
Wellth Therapy has a broad range of clinical experience working with individuals and groups across the life span in the following areas: •Anxiety Disorders •Depression and Bipolar Disorder •Chronic Mental Illness •Behavioral and Discipline Challenges .
At Wellth Therapy my goal is to provide individuals with a safe place to deepen their understanding and learning of their sense of selves based on a firm foundation of empowerment and self awareness. Follow @wellththerapy on Instagram for tips and helpful insights into mental health.
(289) 207-7998 View (289) 207-7998

See more therapy options for East York

Bipolar Disorder Counsellors

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.