Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Oakville, ON

Photo of Shankari Sharma, MA, Psychological Associate
Shankari Sharma
Psychological Associate, MA
Verified Verified
Oakville, ON L6M
At the Therapy Centre, Shankari provides individual, couple, and family therapy for adults. Her areas of interest and proficiency include diagnostic assessment and treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depressive and bipolar disorders, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, relationship difficulties, assertiveness, stress and burnout, anger management, and personality disorders. She has a particular interest in the treatment of PTSD, trauma- and stressor-related disorders, and the variety of individual and interpersonal sequelae of traumatic experiences.
At the Therapy Centre, Shankari provides individual, couple, and family therapy for adults. Her areas of interest and proficiency include diagnostic assessment and treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depressive and bipolar disorders, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, relationship difficulties, assertiveness, stress and burnout, anger management, and personality disorders. She has a particular interest in the treatment of PTSD, trauma- and stressor-related disorders, and the variety of individual and interpersonal sequelae of traumatic experiences.
(289) 797-2827 View (289) 797-2827
Photo of Houyuan Luo, PhD, CPsych, Psychologist
Houyuan Luo
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
Oakville, ON L6J
I have received solid training in providing psychological assessment and psychotherapy to adults with various concerns such as depression, anxiety, bipolar, excessive emotions or emotional flatness, relationship issues, stress management, anger management, self-criticism, psychosis and psychological intervention of physical illnesses (e.
I am Dr. Houyuan Luo. I am a registered Counselling/Clinical/Health Psychologist and an experienced CBT & ACT therapist in Toronto, Ontario. Thanks for reading my profile, and congratulations on considering the journey of healing and living a meaningful life! As human beings, we all feel vulnerable and struggle with things at times. Nobody is swimming their way through life smoothly and without bumps. As a psychologist, I am your co-traveller. About me: I earned a Ph.D. in Counselling Psychology from the University of Alberta. I aspire to provide high-quality psychological services. More about me on mindpeace.ca/teams/
I have received solid training in providing psychological assessment and psychotherapy to adults with various concerns such as depression, anxiety, bipolar, excessive emotions or emotional flatness, relationship issues, stress management, anger management, self-criticism, psychosis and psychological intervention of physical illnesses (e.
I am Dr. Houyuan Luo. I am a registered Counselling/Clinical/Health Psychologist and an experienced CBT & ACT therapist in Toronto, Ontario. Thanks for reading my profile, and congratulations on considering the journey of healing and living a meaningful life! As human beings, we all feel vulnerable and struggle with things at times. Nobody is swimming their way through life smoothly and without bumps. As a psychologist, I am your co-traveller. About me: I earned a Ph.D. in Counselling Psychology from the University of Alberta. I aspire to provide high-quality psychological services. More about me on mindpeace.ca/teams/
(647) 697-9428 View (647) 697-9428
Photo of Arzu Ferguson, MSc, CPsych, Psychologist
Arzu Ferguson
Psychologist, MSc, CPsych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakville, ON L6K
Life isn’t fair. No one should have to go through difficult life challenges alone. You might be feeling overwhelmed or stuck. Maybe you are not sure what to do next. I have over 25 years of experience in the assessment and treatment of children, teens and adults. As a licensed Clinical and Counselling Psychologist and a Psychotherapist, my utmost goal is to make you feel safe, unjudged and listened. I thrive to provide a caring and welcoming environment. I have helped many people struggling with relationship problems, ADHD, Autism, Anxiety, OCD, Panic attacks, Health Anxiety, Trauma, PTSD, Depression and Borderline Personality.
Life isn’t fair. No one should have to go through difficult life challenges alone. You might be feeling overwhelmed or stuck. Maybe you are not sure what to do next. I have over 25 years of experience in the assessment and treatment of children, teens and adults. As a licensed Clinical and Counselling Psychologist and a Psychotherapist, my utmost goal is to make you feel safe, unjudged and listened. I thrive to provide a caring and welcoming environment. I have helped many people struggling with relationship problems, ADHD, Autism, Anxiety, OCD, Panic attacks, Health Anxiety, Trauma, PTSD, Depression and Borderline Personality.
(289) 302-5824 View (289) 302-5824
Photo of Ola M. Kuforiji, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Ola M. Kuforiji
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Oakville, ON L6L
Do you ever have the thought, ‘how did I get here?’? From navigating your relationships to your career to your sense of self, you might feel disconnected from the life you once dreamed of —like you’ve lost that spark of joy. Therapy offers an opportunity to see your life from a different perspective and to open up new paths forward. I bring my own lived experience and mental health journey to my practice. I know the challenges and insights that come with seeking help and I understand how scary it can feel to be unsure of your next step. Together we can find a direction forward that feels authentic and fulfilling to you.
Do you ever have the thought, ‘how did I get here?’? From navigating your relationships to your career to your sense of self, you might feel disconnected from the life you once dreamed of —like you’ve lost that spark of joy. Therapy offers an opportunity to see your life from a different perspective and to open up new paths forward. I bring my own lived experience and mental health journey to my practice. I know the challenges and insights that come with seeking help and I understand how scary it can feel to be unsure of your next step. Together we can find a direction forward that feels authentic and fulfilling to you.
(365) 399-5119 View (365) 399-5119
Photo of Matthew King, PhD, Psychologist
Matthew King
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Oakville, ON L6H  (Online Only)
I strive to provide clients with a safe, non-judgmental, and warm environment where they can feel comfortable discussing the issues that are most distressing for them. I specialize in cognitive behavioural therapy for mood and anxiety disorders, insomnia, and psychosis. I also have experience with women's health issues (e.g., postpartum depression, menopause). I believe that my clients can make meaningful progress with the right tools and a genuine therapeutic relationship.
I strive to provide clients with a safe, non-judgmental, and warm environment where they can feel comfortable discussing the issues that are most distressing for them. I specialize in cognitive behavioural therapy for mood and anxiety disorders, insomnia, and psychosis. I also have experience with women's health issues (e.g., postpartum depression, menopause). I believe that my clients can make meaningful progress with the right tools and a genuine therapeutic relationship.
(844) 307-6483 View (844) 307-6483
Photo of Esra Magsoud, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Esra Magsoud
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakville, ON L6L  (Online Only)
I provide individual, couples & family therapy to children, youth & adults. Deciding to seek therapy is an important step forward & I look forward to supporting you on your journey of personal growth. Whether you desire to make strides in your emotional, personal, social, or mental health, I will facilitate positive changes to improve your quality of life. I believe that safely & openly exploring your emotions in a positive & helpful environment is crucial. We will collaboratively create treatment plans & goals together, according to your unique needs, preferences & values. I apply an intersectional lens to promote cultural safety.
I provide individual, couples & family therapy to children, youth & adults. Deciding to seek therapy is an important step forward & I look forward to supporting you on your journey of personal growth. Whether you desire to make strides in your emotional, personal, social, or mental health, I will facilitate positive changes to improve your quality of life. I believe that safely & openly exploring your emotions in a positive & helpful environment is crucial. We will collaboratively create treatment plans & goals together, according to your unique needs, preferences & values. I apply an intersectional lens to promote cultural safety.
(289) 802-0948 View (289) 802-0948
Photo of Martin Atanasovski, MACP, RP, CTIC, Registered Psychotherapist
Martin Atanasovski
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, RP, CTIC
Verified Verified
Oakville, ON L6H
I am dedicated to a holistic integrative approach to provide clients with somatic, experiential, and evidence based treatments with a goal of integrating the mind and body as part of the healing process. I have experience working with mood disorders, anxiety disorders, emotion dysregulation, borderline personality disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder, trauma, attachment issues, and grief. I am also a native Macedonian speaker.
I am dedicated to a holistic integrative approach to provide clients with somatic, experiential, and evidence based treatments with a goal of integrating the mind and body as part of the healing process. I have experience working with mood disorders, anxiety disorders, emotion dysregulation, borderline personality disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder, trauma, attachment issues, and grief. I am also a native Macedonian speaker.
(289) 302-8134 View (289) 302-8134
Photo of Wendy Wang, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Wendy Wang
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakville, ON L6J  (Online Only)
Welcome! 
I’m a registered psychotherapist (Qualifying) with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario and a certified hypnotist accredited by the National Guild of Hypnotists. I offer counseling services in both English and Mandarin. Life can be overwhelming at times, with stressors, trauma, or habits that keep us feeling stuck. Facing these challenges isn’t easy, but taking that step is one of the most empowering decisions you can make. My goal is to provide you with a safe, supportive environment where you can begin to heal and thrive.
Welcome! 
I’m a registered psychotherapist (Qualifying) with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario and a certified hypnotist accredited by the National Guild of Hypnotists. I offer counseling services in both English and Mandarin. Life can be overwhelming at times, with stressors, trauma, or habits that keep us feeling stuck. Facing these challenges isn’t easy, but taking that step is one of the most empowering decisions you can make. My goal is to provide you with a safe, supportive environment where you can begin to heal and thrive.
(289) 914-2037 View (289) 914-2037
Photo of Stacy Olieux -Affect Regulation- Fertility- Cognitions, MACP, BSc, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Stacy Olieux -Affect Regulation- Fertility- Cognitions
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP, BSc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakville, ON L6M  (Online Only)
Are you someone who struggles with big emotions? Perhaps you feel overwhelmed with life and are not sure where to turn to for some relief. Do you struggle with depression or anxiety? Maybe you are someone struggling with infertility and are feeling alone and overcome with emotions surrounding your deepest desire of a baby. Life can be overwhelming at times for many of us, but with the added stress of mental health struggles, it can feel like the weight of the world is on your shoulders and you may feel lost and disconnected. If you want to change these characteristics of your life, you have come to the right place.
Are you someone who struggles with big emotions? Perhaps you feel overwhelmed with life and are not sure where to turn to for some relief. Do you struggle with depression or anxiety? Maybe you are someone struggling with infertility and are feeling alone and overcome with emotions surrounding your deepest desire of a baby. Life can be overwhelming at times for many of us, but with the added stress of mental health struggles, it can feel like the weight of the world is on your shoulders and you may feel lost and disconnected. If you want to change these characteristics of your life, you have come to the right place.
(289) 312-8863 View (289) 312-8863
Photo of Sadaf Sheikh - Your Lifetime Counselling, MD, MACP, RP, PMP, CCRP, Registered Psychotherapist
Your Lifetime Counselling
Registered Psychotherapist, MD, MACP, RP, PMP, CCRP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Oakville, ON L6H
I wear many professional hats. I am an MD, MACP, RP, a Clinical Researcher, a Project Management Professional, a Professor at George Brown College, previously an instructor for 15 years at UofT and a family oriented female. I am a published author in the Journal of American College of Cardiology, International Diabetes Federation and the Journal of European Society of Cardiology. I have a number of years worth of work experience in mental health. I have taken care of clients in the in/out patient settings. I believe in providing a non-judgmental and safe space for people to share. My aim is to build stronger communities.
I wear many professional hats. I am an MD, MACP, RP, a Clinical Researcher, a Project Management Professional, a Professor at George Brown College, previously an instructor for 15 years at UofT and a family oriented female. I am a published author in the Journal of American College of Cardiology, International Diabetes Federation and the Journal of European Society of Cardiology. I have a number of years worth of work experience in mental health. I have taken care of clients in the in/out patient settings. I believe in providing a non-judgmental and safe space for people to share. My aim is to build stronger communities.
(289) 677-1873 View (289) 677-1873
Photo of Martha Li, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Martha Li
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakville, ON L6M  (Online Only)
I provide adults with a safe, non-judgmental space for improving emotional and mental well-being and creating satisfying personal relationships. My intention is to make a space for you where you feel at ease to speak about anything that is on your mind. If issues of diversity and culture are a part of the conflicts surrounding your life, I can help. As a Canadian–born Chinese psychotherapist, I can relate to your lived experience of holding intersecting values of your Asian culture while simultaneously identifying with your Canadian background.
I provide adults with a safe, non-judgmental space for improving emotional and mental well-being and creating satisfying personal relationships. My intention is to make a space for you where you feel at ease to speak about anything that is on your mind. If issues of diversity and culture are a part of the conflicts surrounding your life, I can help. As a Canadian–born Chinese psychotherapist, I can relate to your lived experience of holding intersecting values of your Asian culture while simultaneously identifying with your Canadian background.
(289) 212-9822 View (289) 212-9822
Photo of Uzma Ilahi, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist
Uzma Ilahi
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakville, ON L6H
You might be looking to increase psychological fitness, or make sense of past wounds, or make a change in your present way of being in the world – I offer a safe, non judgmental and supportive space to facilitate your healing. My work is to help you experience who you truly are, harness your personal strength and overcome your challenges. I work with a firm belief in the resilience of the human spirit and this belief is supported by a solid educational base, a multi-cultural variety of life experience, and a range of counselling skills and tools that makes it possible for me to meet your individual needs.
You might be looking to increase psychological fitness, or make sense of past wounds, or make a change in your present way of being in the world – I offer a safe, non judgmental and supportive space to facilitate your healing. My work is to help you experience who you truly are, harness your personal strength and overcome your challenges. I work with a firm belief in the resilience of the human spirit and this belief is supported by a solid educational base, a multi-cultural variety of life experience, and a range of counselling skills and tools that makes it possible for me to meet your individual needs.
(289) 768-9298 View (289) 768-9298
Photo of Anders Dorbeck, PsyD, Psychologist
Anders Dorbeck
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakville, ON L6M  (Online Only)
I work with people who have a wide variety of presenting concerns, sometimes including multiple complex difficulties, including depression, anxiety, panic, OCD, problems with interpersonal relationships and communication, chronic pain and other chronic health problems, trauma, occupational challenges, and low self esteem. I use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and other approaches to teach you to make lasting behavioural changes in your life.
I work with people who have a wide variety of presenting concerns, sometimes including multiple complex difficulties, including depression, anxiety, panic, OCD, problems with interpersonal relationships and communication, chronic pain and other chronic health problems, trauma, occupational challenges, and low self esteem. I use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and other approaches to teach you to make lasting behavioural changes in your life.
(289) 272-7153 View (289) 272-7153
Photo of Susan Sergeant, PhD, CPsych, Psychologist
Susan Sergeant
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakville, ON L6H
I want to help you live the best life possible! I enjoy working with adults and teens looking to address psychological issues that are negatively impacting their quality of life and ability to manage stressors. I have expertise in the treatment of anxiety/phobias, depression/motivation difficulties, uncontrollable worry, emotional dysregulation, trauma, disordered eating, anger, and interpersonal difficulties. I listen to the individual needs and concerns of my clients, share ideas about what will help based on my extensive knowledge of research-based approaches, and work together with my clients to bring about positive change.
I want to help you live the best life possible! I enjoy working with adults and teens looking to address psychological issues that are negatively impacting their quality of life and ability to manage stressors. I have expertise in the treatment of anxiety/phobias, depression/motivation difficulties, uncontrollable worry, emotional dysregulation, trauma, disordered eating, anger, and interpersonal difficulties. I listen to the individual needs and concerns of my clients, share ideas about what will help based on my extensive knowledge of research-based approaches, and work together with my clients to bring about positive change.
(289) 302-8318 View (289) 302-8318
Photo of Dong Jun Kim, MEd, RP, CCC, Registered Psychotherapist
Dong Jun Kim
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, RP, CCC
Verified Verified
Oakville, ON L6M
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Registered Psychotherapist of CRPO and a Canadian Certified Counsellor of CCPA (Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association), who have been dealing with a broad range of issues in various fields since completing my master’s degree, majoring in Counselling Psychology in 2000. As a registered psychotherapist, I am confident that I have trained in various evidence-based approaches, and have been trying to integrate them based on clients’ wants/needs.
I am a Registered Psychotherapist of CRPO and a Canadian Certified Counsellor of CCPA (Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association), who have been dealing with a broad range of issues in various fields since completing my master’s degree, majoring in Counselling Psychology in 2000. As a registered psychotherapist, I am confident that I have trained in various evidence-based approaches, and have been trying to integrate them based on clients’ wants/needs.
(289) 275-5501 View (289) 275-5501
Photo of Gayle M Goldstein, PhD, CPsych, Psychologist
Gayle M Goldstein
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
Oakville, ON L6K
Hello and welcome! I am a clinical psychologist licensed in Ontario and I work with children, adolescents, adults and families. Over the last 15 years I have been providing assessment, therapy and consultation for a variety of concerns and issues. I am able to provide developmental, educational, and diagnostic assessments. I am also trained to provide Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT). I also draw from other approaches that include Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and collaborative problem solving.
Hello and welcome! I am a clinical psychologist licensed in Ontario and I work with children, adolescents, adults and families. Over the last 15 years I have been providing assessment, therapy and consultation for a variety of concerns and issues. I am able to provide developmental, educational, and diagnostic assessments. I am also trained to provide Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT). I also draw from other approaches that include Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and collaborative problem solving.
(289) 813-8242 View (289) 813-8242
Photo of Philip Henein, MDiv, RP , RCC, Registered Psychotherapist
Philip Henein
Registered Psychotherapist, MDiv, RP , RCC
Verified Verified
Oakville, ON L6H  (Online Only)
Experience the transformative power of EMDR therapy – a proven and evidence-based treatment for Trauma, Anxiety, and more. EMDR's innovative approach targets distressing memories, allowing you to reprocess and overcome the impact of trauma. I believe I have the education and experience necessary to provide effective, customized treatment plans that meet the unique needs of my clients. I spent the last 14 years working with people in community development, humanitarian work, counselling, and psychotherapy in the most devastated communities overseas and Canada. Visit Phenein.com for a free 15-minute consultation.
Experience the transformative power of EMDR therapy – a proven and evidence-based treatment for Trauma, Anxiety, and more. EMDR's innovative approach targets distressing memories, allowing you to reprocess and overcome the impact of trauma. I believe I have the education and experience necessary to provide effective, customized treatment plans that meet the unique needs of my clients. I spent the last 14 years working with people in community development, humanitarian work, counselling, and psychotherapy in the most devastated communities overseas and Canada. Visit Phenein.com for a free 15-minute consultation.
(343) 341-5752 View (343) 341-5752
Photo of Shireen Abuhatoum, PhD, CPsych, Psychologist
Shireen Abuhatoum
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakville, ON L6H
Therapy is an opportunity to solve problems, improve coping, and build a more enhanced quality of life. In therapy, my aim is to build a strong relationship with clients, one that is based on principles of trust, transparency, and collaboration. I strive to create an atmosphere that will help you to feel safe, supported, and challenged in the areas that will foster your growth.
Therapy is an opportunity to solve problems, improve coping, and build a more enhanced quality of life. In therapy, my aim is to build a strong relationship with clients, one that is based on principles of trust, transparency, and collaboration. I strive to create an atmosphere that will help you to feel safe, supported, and challenged in the areas that will foster your growth.
(647) 952-1490 View (647) 952-1490
Photo of Angela Kojok, RP, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Angela Kojok
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP
Verified Verified
Oakville, ON L6J  (Online Only)
Learning to simply cope with your pain isn’t good enough. Find long-term relief by unlocking the unconscious root cause of your distress with in-depth mental health specialists at The Mind People. Struggling with untreated mental health issues leaves you stuck and suffering with pain that can seriously disrupt your sleep, impact your relationships with others, and negatively influence your sense of self and physical well-being.
Learning to simply cope with your pain isn’t good enough. Find long-term relief by unlocking the unconscious root cause of your distress with in-depth mental health specialists at The Mind People. Struggling with untreated mental health issues leaves you stuck and suffering with pain that can seriously disrupt your sleep, impact your relationships with others, and negatively influence your sense of self and physical well-being.
(365) 536-0577 View (365) 536-0577
Photo of Jacqueline Y Tan, RP, RMFT, MSc, Registered Psychotherapist
Jacqueline Y Tan
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, RMFT, MSc
Verified Verified
Oakville, ON L6H
Waitlist for new clients
Life is a journey of discovery and constant learning - about ourselves, others, or the world around us. It is a journey of setting goals, making decisions, adjusting to changes, and finding the congruence within one self. The more we travel on this journey, hopefully the more peaceful, enlightened and complete we become. My aim is to help you uncover the self and support you with compassion and helpful tools in your journey to reach your potentials. I am result-oriented. My various experiences has afforded me a deep understanding of people's life experiences, combined with the extensive clinical training, for me to help you.
Life is a journey of discovery and constant learning - about ourselves, others, or the world around us. It is a journey of setting goals, making decisions, adjusting to changes, and finding the congruence within one self. The more we travel on this journey, hopefully the more peaceful, enlightened and complete we become. My aim is to help you uncover the self and support you with compassion and helpful tools in your journey to reach your potentials. I am result-oriented. My various experiences has afforded me a deep understanding of people's life experiences, combined with the extensive clinical training, for me to help you.
(289) 207-7545 View (289) 207-7545

See more therapy options for Oakville

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.