Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Buena Vista, CO

Photo of Brad Trathen, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brad Trathen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Buena Vista, CO 81211  (Online Only)
There is a first step in any kind of change and I honor this step you are making! Counseling is about exploring the unknown or the hidden within ourselves. I provide a safe, non-judgmental, and calm approach when helping you explore your internal world. I help my clients (or explorers as I like to call them) cultivate a sense of curiosity and find courage when allowing challenging emotions or events to surface. This offers the opportunity to explore the different ways we have been avoiding, denying, and/or not seeing our true nature with clarity.
There is a first step in any kind of change and I honor this step you are making! Counseling is about exploring the unknown or the hidden within ourselves. I provide a safe, non-judgmental, and calm approach when helping you explore your internal world. I help my clients (or explorers as I like to call them) cultivate a sense of curiosity and find courage when allowing challenging emotions or events to surface. This offers the opportunity to explore the different ways we have been avoiding, denying, and/or not seeing our true nature with clarity.
(719) 398-0129 View (719) 398-0129
Photo of Jill Flodstrom, MA, LAC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jill Flodstrom
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LAC, LPC
Verified Verified
Buena Vista, CO 81211
My approach is grounded in compassion, empathy, and present moment awareness and often includes elements of mind, body, spirit, and nature. I offer a non-judgmental attitude in which clients can feel comfortable exploring thoughts, feelings, sensations and uncovering patterns that no longer serve them.
My approach is grounded in compassion, empathy, and present moment awareness and often includes elements of mind, body, spirit, and nature. I offer a non-judgmental attitude in which clients can feel comfortable exploring thoughts, feelings, sensations and uncovering patterns that no longer serve them.
(719) 625-2687 View (719) 625-2687
Photo of Alison Festa, MA, LPC
Alison Festa
MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Buena Vista, CO 81211
In the face of trauma, grief, substance abuse and mental health challenges we can find ourselves weighed down, overwhelmed, hopeless, disconnected and uprooted. My hope in providing therapy support is to walk through those challenges with you and collaborate with you on your journey towards healing, exploration, empowerment, growth and rediscovering your roots.
In the face of trauma, grief, substance abuse and mental health challenges we can find ourselves weighed down, overwhelmed, hopeless, disconnected and uprooted. My hope in providing therapy support is to walk through those challenges with you and collaborate with you on your journey towards healing, exploration, empowerment, growth and rediscovering your roots.
(719) 781-3246 View (719) 781-3246
Photo of Amy Welker, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amy Welker
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Buena Vista, CO 81211  (Online Only)
Making the first call, sending the email or text to get the help you need can be anxiety producing. Congrats! You did it. I look forward to meeting you. During our first our first meeting we will discuss what brings you into therapy, go over paperwork, questions, and determine together if we are a good fit. Therapy is a relationship like any other and it is important that you feel heard, understood and accepted. I am very passionate about teaching, training and helping persons learn life skills and gain the best quality of life possible.
Making the first call, sending the email or text to get the help you need can be anxiety producing. Congrats! You did it. I look forward to meeting you. During our first our first meeting we will discuss what brings you into therapy, go over paperwork, questions, and determine together if we are a good fit. Therapy is a relationship like any other and it is important that you feel heard, understood and accepted. I am very passionate about teaching, training and helping persons learn life skills and gain the best quality of life possible.
(720) 706-2981 View (720) 706-2981
Photo of Gina Porter, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Gina Porter
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Buena Vista, CO 81211
Navigating life’s challenges can be especially tough when you’re high-functioning and driven, yet still find yourself grappling with anxiety, perfectionism, self-doubt, or relationship issues. I specialize in working with ambitious individuals aged 25 to 65 who are striving for greater self-worth, better relationships, and a more fulfilling life. I understand that even successful people can struggle with underlying issues like depression, anxiety, communication difficulties, relationships, and healthy boundaries. My goal is to help you overcome these obstacles so that they no longer hold you back from achieving your full potential.
Navigating life’s challenges can be especially tough when you’re high-functioning and driven, yet still find yourself grappling with anxiety, perfectionism, self-doubt, or relationship issues. I specialize in working with ambitious individuals aged 25 to 65 who are striving for greater self-worth, better relationships, and a more fulfilling life. I understand that even successful people can struggle with underlying issues like depression, anxiety, communication difficulties, relationships, and healthy boundaries. My goal is to help you overcome these obstacles so that they no longer hold you back from achieving your full potential.
(719) 625-3503 View (719) 625-3503

Online Therapists

Photo of Lindsey De Los Santos, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lindsey De Los Santos
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Colorado Springs, CO 80903
My clinical focus is working with adolescents, adults, and couples experiencing the following issues: anxiety, depression, trauma, bipolar disorder, partnership issues, grief & loss, low self-esteem, ADHD, and addiction.
There should always be hope, and you shouldn’t have to suffer alone! No matter what you are facing, I believe that together we can find a solution! We all face difficulty, but it is important to remember that the way you feel is only temporary! It is only a matter of time before the sun comes out after a storm. While life can be challenging at times, having a skilled professional to "walk along-side you" to support, encourage, and provide concrete solutions can make it easier.
My clinical focus is working with adolescents, adults, and couples experiencing the following issues: anxiety, depression, trauma, bipolar disorder, partnership issues, grief & loss, low self-esteem, ADHD, and addiction.
There should always be hope, and you shouldn’t have to suffer alone! No matter what you are facing, I believe that together we can find a solution! We all face difficulty, but it is important to remember that the way you feel is only temporary! It is only a matter of time before the sun comes out after a storm. While life can be challenging at times, having a skilled professional to "walk along-side you" to support, encourage, and provide concrete solutions can make it easier.
(719) 624-2884 View (719) 624-2884
Photo of Kristin N Gearhart, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kristin N Gearhart
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80231
I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy in my work with depression, bipolar disorder and for managing the many life issues we all face.
I specialize in treating trauma/PTSD, depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety,parenting and relationship issues, military issues and personality disorders. I enjoy working with people of all ages, in individual, family and couples counseling and have experience working with military members and their families.
I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy in my work with depression, bipolar disorder and for managing the many life issues we all face.
I specialize in treating trauma/PTSD, depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety,parenting and relationship issues, military issues and personality disorders. I enjoy working with people of all ages, in individual, family and couples counseling and have experience working with military members and their families.
(720) 809-7815 View (720) 809-7815
Photo of Andrea M Risi, LPC, MGCP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Andrea M Risi
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MGCP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80206
I specialize in working with chronic medical conditions, Asperger's Disorder/ASD, and Bipolar Disorder.
Are you feeling stuck? I help people move forward! I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor and I work with adults to restore emotional wellness. If you are struggling with chronic illness, sports performance, social skills problems, mood disorders, or anxiety, we can work together to find a balance that can help you live a more satisfying and meaningful life.
I specialize in working with chronic medical conditions, Asperger's Disorder/ASD, and Bipolar Disorder.
Are you feeling stuck? I help people move forward! I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor and I work with adults to restore emotional wellness. If you are struggling with chronic illness, sports performance, social skills problems, mood disorders, or anxiety, we can work together to find a balance that can help you live a more satisfying and meaningful life.
(720) 425-5334 View (720) 425-5334
Photo of Julia Hamlett, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julia Hamlett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80210
Julia's experience spans a wide range of concerns including anxietyrelated disorders, depression, trauma, bipolar disorder, ADHD, familial/relational conflicts, gender identity, women's issues, men's issues, emotion identification and regulation, grief, attachment wounds, transitional life experiences, and work/school related stress.
Julia Hamlett is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Colorado who has been practicing since 2020. She graduated with her Master of Social Work and AnimalAssisted Social Work Certificate at the University of Denver Graduate School of Social Work and obtained her Bachelor's degree in Psychology with a minor in Human Services from Stevenson University.
Julia's experience spans a wide range of concerns including anxietyrelated disorders, depression, trauma, bipolar disorder, ADHD, familial/relational conflicts, gender identity, women's issues, men's issues, emotion identification and regulation, grief, attachment wounds, transitional life experiences, and work/school related stress.
Julia Hamlett is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Colorado who has been practicing since 2020. She graduated with her Master of Social Work and AnimalAssisted Social Work Certificate at the University of Denver Graduate School of Social Work and obtained her Bachelor's degree in Psychology with a minor in Human Services from Stevenson University.
(720) 734-3846 View (720) 734-3846
Photo of Rebekah Skinner - Mountain Thrive Counseling, LPCC, Counselor
Rebekah Skinner - Mountain Thrive Counseling
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80211
I specialize in mood related problems (depression, anxiety, bipolar), trauma, grief, family conflict, school issues and LGBTQI+ related issues.
Through support and encouragement, everyone can have the ability to create positive change and find a balance in their lives. A strength-based approach can allow for the opportunity to identify successes, reestablish healthy patterns and learn new ways to deal with everyday life. I strive to create a safe and welcoming environment for clients from all backgrounds to share and process whatever brings them to the counseling space. I operate using an integrative approach to counseling, meaning I utilize different techniques based on what works best for you. Together, we can create goals that you or your child hope to achieve.
I specialize in mood related problems (depression, anxiety, bipolar), trauma, grief, family conflict, school issues and LGBTQI+ related issues.
Through support and encouragement, everyone can have the ability to create positive change and find a balance in their lives. A strength-based approach can allow for the opportunity to identify successes, reestablish healthy patterns and learn new ways to deal with everyday life. I strive to create a safe and welcoming environment for clients from all backgrounds to share and process whatever brings them to the counseling space. I operate using an integrative approach to counseling, meaning I utilize different techniques based on what works best for you. Together, we can create goals that you or your child hope to achieve.
(720) 675-8259 View (720) 675-8259
Photo of Keely Mortenson, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Keely Mortenson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80211
I am happy to speak with you if you are struggling with depression, anxiety, bipolar, relationship difficulties, trauma, or stage of life/transition issues so you can get unstuck and back into your life.
I have over 20 yrs of providing therapy to individuals. I use a collaborative approach, working with your strengths and needs to achieve healing and growth. I strive to provide a comfortable and non-judgmental space and believe that a strong therapeutic relationship is key to a successful experience in therapy. I enjoy working with a holistic and mindfulness perspective, joining mind and body to improve quality of life and increase happiness. I believe the most effective therapy is that which balances acceptance and change skills. My goal is for you to not only feel listened to, but feel that you have tools needed to make change.
I am happy to speak with you if you are struggling with depression, anxiety, bipolar, relationship difficulties, trauma, or stage of life/transition issues so you can get unstuck and back into your life.
I have over 20 yrs of providing therapy to individuals. I use a collaborative approach, working with your strengths and needs to achieve healing and growth. I strive to provide a comfortable and non-judgmental space and believe that a strong therapeutic relationship is key to a successful experience in therapy. I enjoy working with a holistic and mindfulness perspective, joining mind and body to improve quality of life and increase happiness. I believe the most effective therapy is that which balances acceptance and change skills. My goal is for you to not only feel listened to, but feel that you have tools needed to make change.
(651) 362-1560 View (651) 362-1560
Photo of Taylor Diltz, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Taylor Diltz
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Castle Rock, CO 80104  (Online Only)
My specialty involves working with trauma and mood disorders including those with depression, bipolar, and/or anxiety.
As a counselor, I am passionate and dedicated to connecting with people to assist them through any challenges they may be facing. I embrace the strong belief that individuals need to hold a focus on healing rather than not feeling. My approach involves bringing those feelings and memories we try to avoid to the front of our consciousness to process and heal from them in more appropriate and healthy ways. I enjoy working with adults that stem from a variety of backgrounds. In individual, couple, and group settings, I offer a safe, caring, and compassionate environment for all individuals seeking support.
My specialty involves working with trauma and mood disorders including those with depression, bipolar, and/or anxiety.
As a counselor, I am passionate and dedicated to connecting with people to assist them through any challenges they may be facing. I embrace the strong belief that individuals need to hold a focus on healing rather than not feeling. My approach involves bringing those feelings and memories we try to avoid to the front of our consciousness to process and heal from them in more appropriate and healthy ways. I enjoy working with adults that stem from a variety of backgrounds. In individual, couple, and group settings, I offer a safe, caring, and compassionate environment for all individuals seeking support.
(720) 702-1756 View (720) 702-1756
Photo of Sarah Hay, LCSW, EdM, RYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Hay
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EdM, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80302
I support teenagers and adults experiencing grief or moving through major life transitions. I help clients wanting to stop feeling controlled by symptoms of mood swings, bipolar, anxiety, and depression. Generally, I love working with seekers, people who are exploring existential questions and are ready for change. Wherever you are in your journey, I’m here to help you gain trust in yourself and get in touch your own inherent wisdom.
I support teenagers and adults experiencing grief or moving through major life transitions. I help clients wanting to stop feeling controlled by symptoms of mood swings, bipolar, anxiety, and depression. Generally, I love working with seekers, people who are exploring existential questions and are ready for change. Wherever you are in your journey, I’m here to help you gain trust in yourself and get in touch your own inherent wisdom.
(720) 707-3432 View (720) 707-3432
Photo of Michelle Willix, LCSW, CCTP, SPT-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Willix
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP, SPT-C
Verified Verified
Broomfield, CO 80020
I have helped clients overcome and manage anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, childhood and adult traumas, chronic pain/medical trauma, abuse, PTSD, self harm, Dissociative Identity Disorder, crimes victimization, as well as other challenges. I continually learn new skills and techniques as well as dive deeper into those skills I already have.I believe it is important for each client to have a safe and welcoming environment where they are heard and respected. Our time together is collaborative and we will help you develop tools to navigate all of life’s challenges as well as heal the past.
I have helped clients overcome and manage anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, childhood and adult traumas, chronic pain/medical trauma, abuse, PTSD, self harm, Dissociative Identity Disorder, crimes victimization, as well as other challenges. I continually learn new skills and techniques as well as dive deeper into those skills I already have.I believe it is important for each client to have a safe and welcoming environment where they are heard and respected. Our time together is collaborative and we will help you develop tools to navigate all of life’s challenges as well as heal the past.
(303) 758-5931 View (303) 758-5931
Photo of Deborah Anne Galaska, PsyD, LMFT, EMDRII, Psychologist
Deborah Anne Galaska
Psychologist, PsyD, LMFT, EMDRII
Verified Verified
Falcon, CO 80831  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in -borderline, narcissistic or OC personality disorders -dissociative disorders -trauma/abuse histories -dissociative disorders - bipolar disorder -self-harming/suicidality -loss of a loved one to suicide -unsuccessful or harmful previous therapy.
I invite you to take the next step in your unique journey toward wholeness and healing. I believe that coming in for therapy is a sign of hope and empowerment. My general approach is to begin by working with you to create a safe space in which we discover how best to meet your goals at a pace that works for you. I am interested in uncovering the patterns in your life, helping you develop a deeper awareness of who you are, and working with you to become more effective and create a meaningful life that brings you happiness.
I specialize in -borderline, narcissistic or OC personality disorders -dissociative disorders -trauma/abuse histories -dissociative disorders - bipolar disorder -self-harming/suicidality -loss of a loved one to suicide -unsuccessful or harmful previous therapy.
I invite you to take the next step in your unique journey toward wholeness and healing. I believe that coming in for therapy is a sign of hope and empowerment. My general approach is to begin by working with you to create a safe space in which we discover how best to meet your goals at a pace that works for you. I am interested in uncovering the patterns in your life, helping you develop a deeper awareness of who you are, and working with you to become more effective and create a meaningful life that brings you happiness.
(719) 646-7854 View (719) 646-7854
Photo of Jonathan Mindas, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jonathan Mindas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80238
I work very well with individuals with diagnosis of borderline personality disorder, PTSD, and bipolar disorder.
I am a Licensed clinical mental health and substance use therapist with 12+ years of experience in person centered therapeutic strategies, trauma based work, and cognitive behavioral mindfulness. I believe that understanding how we interact within our own environment greatly impacts our thoughts, feelings, and actions. It is a privilege to work with you as we navigate and better understand our mental health.
I work very well with individuals with diagnosis of borderline personality disorder, PTSD, and bipolar disorder.
I am a Licensed clinical mental health and substance use therapist with 12+ years of experience in person centered therapeutic strategies, trauma based work, and cognitive behavioral mindfulness. I believe that understanding how we interact within our own environment greatly impacts our thoughts, feelings, and actions. It is a privilege to work with you as we navigate and better understand our mental health.
(720) 964-2224 View (720) 964-2224
Photo of Ashanti Gosha, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ashanti Gosha
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80220
I have experience with depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders, bipolar disorder and more.
Hi, my name is Ashanti Gosha. Therapy can be a hard first step for many people. My style of therapy is a collaborative approach where you can be authentic in a safe space free of shame and judgement. We will work together with you as the driver to help navigate any mental health challenges with me offering insight and interventions that will help you along the way. I have an integrative approach to therapy which means I work with everyone to assess their goals and needs of therapy, and I combine skills from various treatment modalities that best fits client’s need.
I have experience with depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders, bipolar disorder and more.
Hi, my name is Ashanti Gosha. Therapy can be a hard first step for many people. My style of therapy is a collaborative approach where you can be authentic in a safe space free of shame and judgement. We will work together with you as the driver to help navigate any mental health challenges with me offering insight and interventions that will help you along the way. I have an integrative approach to therapy which means I work with everyone to assess their goals and needs of therapy, and I combine skills from various treatment modalities that best fits client’s need.
(720) 459-9161 View (720) 459-9161
Photo of Misty Keith, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Misty Keith
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Alamosa, CO 81101  (Online Only)
I specialize in addiction, ADHD (Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder), adolescent & teen mental/behavioral health, anger management, anxiety, bipolar disorder, children's mental/behavioral health, depression, family relationships, grief / bereavement and more.
Hi, I am Misty Keith. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in three states. I am passionate about therapy and the benefits that can come from therapy.
I specialize in addiction, ADHD (Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder), adolescent & teen mental/behavioral health, anger management, anxiety, bipolar disorder, children's mental/behavioral health, depression, family relationships, grief / bereavement and more.
Hi, I am Misty Keith. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in three states. I am passionate about therapy and the benefits that can come from therapy.
(719) 628-5925 View (719) 628-5925
Photo of Gardiner Turner, BA, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Gardiner Turner
Counselor, BA, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80302  (Online Only)
The passion for the work that I do comes from my deep conviction that everyone can benefit from, and in fact deserves, a safe space to be truly heard, seen, and understood. I enjoy working with individuals of all ages and backgrounds, and have experience/ training in supporting clients struggling with a wide range of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, substance use, grief, shame, trauma/PTSD, bipolar disorder, and psychosis. I do not ascribe to a one size fits all model of therapy and believe every client to be unique both in terms of there personal goals for therapy and the best way to help them reach these goals
The passion for the work that I do comes from my deep conviction that everyone can benefit from, and in fact deserves, a safe space to be truly heard, seen, and understood. I enjoy working with individuals of all ages and backgrounds, and have experience/ training in supporting clients struggling with a wide range of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, substance use, grief, shame, trauma/PTSD, bipolar disorder, and psychosis. I do not ascribe to a one size fits all model of therapy and believe every client to be unique both in terms of there personal goals for therapy and the best way to help them reach these goals
(970) 533-2923 View (970) 533-2923
Photo of Michael Pipich, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michael Pipich
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Greenwood Village, CO 80111
Located in the DTC, Michael Pipich, LMFT at The Colorado Center for Clinical Excellence, has over 30 years of experience providing psychotherapy services for adults, adolescents, and couples. Assessment and treatment options are offered for a variety of relationship and mental health problems for you or your loved-one, including individual and family therapy work with Bipolar Disorder. Online therapy services (HIPAA-compliant), and assistance with billing out-of-network insurance benefits are among the services available for your convenience. Discover more at thecoloradocenter.com, or call to schedule an appointment today.
Located in the DTC, Michael Pipich, LMFT at The Colorado Center for Clinical Excellence, has over 30 years of experience providing psychotherapy services for adults, adolescents, and couples. Assessment and treatment options are offered for a variety of relationship and mental health problems for you or your loved-one, including individual and family therapy work with Bipolar Disorder. Online therapy services (HIPAA-compliant), and assistance with billing out-of-network insurance benefits are among the services available for your convenience. Discover more at thecoloradocenter.com, or call to schedule an appointment today.
(303) 747-4762 View (303) 747-4762

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Bipolar Disorder Therapists

What is the most successful approach to treating bipolar disorder?

Living with bipolar disorder can be challenging, and a number of therapies have been found effective in providing support to patients as they gain the skills to understand and manage the disorder. Family-focused therapy is often helpful for children and teens (the majority of cases develop before age 19); it aims to minimize mood cycling by improving family communication and reducing conflict. It also helps young people navigate the developmental challenges the disorder can create. Cognitive and behavioral therapy (CBT) and variants such as Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)help patients manage the thoughts and feelings that influence bipolar mood swings as well as develop specific behavioral strategies to counteract them.

What happens in therapy for bipolar disorder?

Because the patterns of mood switching and its triggers differ for each person and can change over time, mood tracking or monitoring becomes a basic way patients learn about the nature of their condition. One of the most common features of therapy is finding a workable method of mood monitoring, in which patients track their daily activities and rate their moods, then use the findings to adjust routines accordingly. Patients learn ways of handling the many stresses that arise in life so that they do not trigger mood swings.

What kinds of problems does therapy help with?

Like many other mental health disorders, BPD is heavily influenced by stress; therapy provides skills for coping with stressors of all kinds. Therapy is extremely important for helping individuals identify the situations that may trigger mood switching, so that mood swings can be prevented. Therapy may especially target recognition of the early stages of mood change so that they can be managed. In addition, therapy helps patients deal with the significant amount of turbulence the disorder can create in relationships and in work life.

What is the goal of therapy for bipolar disorder?

Therapy helps patients set up their lives to maintain stability so that their mood isn’t constantly threatened by daily events. Perhaps the first task of therapy is to educate people about the nature of the disorder. At the same time, a primary goal of therapy is to enhance adherence to drug treatment. Extended periods of mood stability can prompt patients to discontinue medication, triggering relapse, while the early phases of manic episodes can feel so energizing that patients stop medication, ushering in full-blown mania and the altered self-perception that can lead to destructive behaviors. Another major goal of therapy is to understand one’s mood patterns so as to minimize both the frequency and intensity of mood cycling.