Therapists in California
I also have significant experience working with Bipolar.
Hello, I am Susie VanDyke, and I love working with PTSD, trauma, alcohol use, and substance use issues. I especially enjoy working with veterans, first responders, their families, and anyone going through difficult times. I graduated with a Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy in 2008 and have over fifteen years of experience in various mental health and hospital settings, with a concentration in military and first responders. I love helping people improve their lives and want them to feel better as quickly as possible. I enjoy helping people who are feeling hopeless about their situations because of tough circumstances.
I also have significant experience working with Bipolar.
Hello, I am Susie VanDyke, and I love working with PTSD, trauma, alcohol use, and substance use issues. I especially enjoy working with veterans, first responders, their families, and anyone going through difficult times. I graduated with a Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy in 2008 and have over fifteen years of experience in various mental health and hospital settings, with a concentration in military and first responders. I love helping people improve their lives and want them to feel better as quickly as possible. I enjoy helping people who are feeling hopeless about their situations because of tough circumstances.
Lesa M Pascali
Marriage & Family Therapist, Lesa Pascali, MFT
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95110 (Online Only)
My work can include Conservatorship, case management & working with families with problems with neurological imbalances & diseases such as schizophrenia, bipolar disease & other issues.
Welcome! I’m Lesa Pascali and I am committed to connecting with individuals, couples and families through individualized therapy and to helping them to discover/rediscover the harmony, meaning and wellness within their lives. After 23 years in law enforcement and 18 years doing therapy, I have dealt with a variety of situations. I’ve worked with individuals, couples and families, veterans, ex-offenders, children, teens and neurologically imbalanced individuals. I use a variety of therapies including RLT therapy, CBT & Solution Focused therapy and am a Certified Relational Life couples therapist.
My work can include Conservatorship, case management & working with families with problems with neurological imbalances & diseases such as schizophrenia, bipolar disease & other issues.
Welcome! I’m Lesa Pascali and I am committed to connecting with individuals, couples and families through individualized therapy and to helping them to discover/rediscover the harmony, meaning and wellness within their lives. After 23 years in law enforcement and 18 years doing therapy, I have dealt with a variety of situations. I’ve worked with individuals, couples and families, veterans, ex-offenders, children, teens and neurologically imbalanced individuals. I use a variety of therapies including RLT therapy, CBT & Solution Focused therapy and am a Certified Relational Life couples therapist.
CERTIFIED INTERVENTION PROFESSIONAL. An Intervention is the first step toward recovery. I specialize in Mental Health and Substance Abuse Interventions. I am a Master level Certified Intervention Professional with over 25 years experience conducting mental health, substance abuse, alcohol, and process addiction disorder interventions. When a loved one is suffering from depression, bipolar disorder or another mental health condition an intervention may be needed. I work with families getting their loved ones into treatment and provide services to help them restore their mental health. I travel nationally and internationally.
CERTIFIED INTERVENTION PROFESSIONAL. An Intervention is the first step toward recovery. I specialize in Mental Health and Substance Abuse Interventions. I am a Master level Certified Intervention Professional with over 25 years experience conducting mental health, substance abuse, alcohol, and process addiction disorder interventions. When a loved one is suffering from depression, bipolar disorder or another mental health condition an intervention may be needed. I work with families getting their loved ones into treatment and provide services to help them restore their mental health. I travel nationally and internationally.
Carol Seixas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PsyD, LCSW, OTRL
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Pedro, CA 90731
My specialty areas include working with mood disorders (depression, anxiety, bipolar illness), chronic pain, individual therapy and couples work.
Hello and welcome. I have over 40 years of experience working in the health field and have provided services in a wide range of mental health settings. The patient/client populations I have had the opportunity to help run the full gamut of mental health needs from the serious mentally ill to the person/family who have never needed to see a therapist until "now". I additionally provide support for the system/family new to mental health with education, skills and linking to resources.
My specialty areas include working with mood disorders (depression, anxiety, bipolar illness), chronic pain, individual therapy and couples work.
Hello and welcome. I have over 40 years of experience working in the health field and have provided services in a wide range of mental health settings. The patient/client populations I have had the opportunity to help run the full gamut of mental health needs from the serious mentally ill to the person/family who have never needed to see a therapist until "now". I additionally provide support for the system/family new to mental health with education, skills and linking to resources.
I have experience working with various diagnoses such as Adjustment Disorder, ADHD, Aspergers Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, Depression, Manic Depression, and other emotional-behavioral disorders.
I am compassionate, yet solution focused in my approach to therapy. I have helped many patients lead more happy and productive lives. My approach to therapy is primarily through cognitive/behavioral interventions for individual therapy and when working with children the entire family is often asked to participate. I like to promote an authentic helping therapeutic environment which promotes positive growth and greater self awareness. I am dedicated to my patients and their desire to reach their goals.
I have experience working with various diagnoses such as Adjustment Disorder, ADHD, Aspergers Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, Depression, Manic Depression, and other emotional-behavioral disorders.
I am compassionate, yet solution focused in my approach to therapy. I have helped many patients lead more happy and productive lives. My approach to therapy is primarily through cognitive/behavioral interventions for individual therapy and when working with children the entire family is often asked to participate. I like to promote an authentic helping therapeutic environment which promotes positive growth and greater self awareness. I am dedicated to my patients and their desire to reach their goals.
I specialize in working with adults and teens with anxiety, depression, bipolar, schizophrenia, substance abuse, PTSD, complex/developmental trauma, grief, chronic pain, health and relationship problems.
I strongly believe that therapy should be a safe place where anyone can come and talk about their life without judgment or shame. It is a place where everyone can benefit from unconditional empathy, understanding, and grace. I am an outgoing person who is easy to talk to, and I do my best to make the therapeutic process as smooth and understandable as possible. We will go at your pace and create a personalized treatment plan to meet your needs and goals. I strive to help you become self sustaining where you can gain a sense of understanding of what skills you need, why you are utilizing them, and when to utilize the skills learned.
I specialize in working with adults and teens with anxiety, depression, bipolar, schizophrenia, substance abuse, PTSD, complex/developmental trauma, grief, chronic pain, health and relationship problems.
I strongly believe that therapy should be a safe place where anyone can come and talk about their life without judgment or shame. It is a place where everyone can benefit from unconditional empathy, understanding, and grace. I am an outgoing person who is easy to talk to, and I do my best to make the therapeutic process as smooth and understandable as possible. We will go at your pace and create a personalized treatment plan to meet your needs and goals. I strive to help you become self sustaining where you can gain a sense of understanding of what skills you need, why you are utilizing them, and when to utilize the skills learned.
My clinical specialties include traumatic brain injury, stroke, dementia, attention deficit disorder, Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, Phobias and Panic Disorders.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in neuropsychological evaluation, cognitive rehabilitation, and psychotherapy. I obtained my PhD Clinical Psychology from Loma Linda University and completed my fellowship at UCLA, pre-doctoral internship at Vanderbilt University, and Bachelor's degree from USC. I also received clinical training at the West Los Angeles VA Healthcare System, UCLA's Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, and the Loma Linda University Behavioral Health Institute.
My clinical specialties include traumatic brain injury, stroke, dementia, attention deficit disorder, Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, Phobias and Panic Disorders.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in neuropsychological evaluation, cognitive rehabilitation, and psychotherapy. I obtained my PhD Clinical Psychology from Loma Linda University and completed my fellowship at UCLA, pre-doctoral internship at Vanderbilt University, and Bachelor's degree from USC. I also received clinical training at the West Los Angeles VA Healthcare System, UCLA's Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, and the Loma Linda University Behavioral Health Institute.
Clients say my superpower is making them feel like they can talk about anything without feeling judged. This is really what I try to do for my clients as well, to change the temperature of that inner dialogue and improve their relationships to themselves. Whether you are dealing with mood issues like depression, anxiety, or bipolar, managing difficult life situations, coming to terms with trauma or issues of identity, or just trying to manage stress better, we can work together so that you can feel better in the world. Building mindfulness and compassion and clarifying personal values are important parts of my approach.
Clients say my superpower is making them feel like they can talk about anything without feeling judged. This is really what I try to do for my clients as well, to change the temperature of that inner dialogue and improve their relationships to themselves. Whether you are dealing with mood issues like depression, anxiety, or bipolar, managing difficult life situations, coming to terms with trauma or issues of identity, or just trying to manage stress better, we can work together so that you can feel better in the world. Building mindfulness and compassion and clarifying personal values are important parts of my approach.
Monica L. Martocci, MA, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90805 (Online Only)
Specializing in the treatment of Adolescents, Adults, Active Duty Military/Veterans, and their Families. Focusing on Addictions, Eating Disorders, Trauma/PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, Self-Esteem, Relationship Issues, Divorce, Sexuality Issues, Bipolar Disorder, Child/Sexual Abuse, Dissociative Disorders, Anger Management, Domestic Violence, and Self-Harm.
Specializing in the treatment of Adolescents, Adults, Active Duty Military/Veterans, and their Families. Focusing on Addictions, Eating Disorders, Trauma/PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, Self-Esteem, Relationship Issues, Divorce, Sexuality Issues, Bipolar Disorder, Child/Sexual Abuse, Dissociative Disorders, Anger Management, Domestic Violence, and Self-Harm.
I am a no-nonsense therapist who quickly establishes a safe relationship with the client to work on the presenting issues. I connect particularly well with bipolar clients.
I am a no-nonsense therapist who quickly establishes a safe relationship with the client to work on the presenting issues. I connect particularly well with bipolar clients.
I provide care to individuals, couples, and families who have found themselves in need of making adjustments in their lives or wanting to learn more about a mental health diagnosis such as depression, anxiety, bipolar, trauma, obsessive behaviors, substance/alcohol issues, schizophrenia, personality issues, marital problems, or parent/child issues.
Life throws many challenges our way and we choose which action to take in responding to those challenges. I've worked with people from various social, political, and ethnic backgrounds and the one thing that everyone has in common is that we all face challenges in life. There are numerous reasons that people seek mental health professionals, and those reasons are very personal and unique to each person. Finding the right professional to guide you in learning more about your mental health diagnosis, getting you through an immediate crisis, or feelings of uncertainty are important in getting you through tough times.
I provide care to individuals, couples, and families who have found themselves in need of making adjustments in their lives or wanting to learn more about a mental health diagnosis such as depression, anxiety, bipolar, trauma, obsessive behaviors, substance/alcohol issues, schizophrenia, personality issues, marital problems, or parent/child issues.
Life throws many challenges our way and we choose which action to take in responding to those challenges. I've worked with people from various social, political, and ethnic backgrounds and the one thing that everyone has in common is that we all face challenges in life. There are numerous reasons that people seek mental health professionals, and those reasons are very personal and unique to each person. Finding the right professional to guide you in learning more about your mental health diagnosis, getting you through an immediate crisis, or feelings of uncertainty are important in getting you through tough times.
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We are a full-service Regional Mental Health Diagnostic and Treatment Center. We specialize in providing diagnostic evaluations to identify learning disabilities, attention and memory problems in children and adults. Psychological testing is used for the assessment of ADHD, memory and cognitive decline, personality, mood/ bipolar, learning disorders, Autism, visual processing weaknesses, and developmental delay (ages newborn to 3 years). Psychological testing can also be used for schools to help accommodate your child's needs.
We are a full-service Regional Mental Health Diagnostic and Treatment Center. We specialize in providing diagnostic evaluations to identify learning disabilities, attention and memory problems in children and adults. Psychological testing is used for the assessment of ADHD, memory and cognitive decline, personality, mood/ bipolar, learning disorders, Autism, visual processing weaknesses, and developmental delay (ages newborn to 3 years). Psychological testing can also be used for schools to help accommodate your child's needs.
We diagnose and serve children and adolescents coping with: * Abusive Dating Relationships * Academic Challenges * ADHD * Anxiety and Stress-Related Disorders * Austism and Spectrum-Related Disorders * Bipolar Disorder * Body Image Issues * Chronic Headaches * Concussions * Cutting and Self-Mutilation * Depression * Epilepsy * Family Relational Problems * Learning Disorders * Low Self Esteem * Movement Disorders * Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder * Oppositional Defiance and Behavioral Problems * Substance Abuse * Trauma and PTSD.
It's tough being a parent today. Do you have a kid or teen who is struggling? Does your family need answers about your child's state of mind or are looking for actual tools to help heal your family dynamic? Our mission is simple: The Weichman Clinic provides comprehensive mental health services, evaluations, diagnosis and collaborative treatment. And we do it all in one place with a special focus on the unique physiological and psychological needs of children and adolescents.The Weichman Clinic at Hoag Hospital's Neurosciences Institute provides unparalleled access to doctors and therapists who exclusively specialize in children and adolescents. Its multi-disciplinary team of professionals treats a variety of issues such as childhood or teenage developmental issues and complex mental health concerns. Each team member bring in-depth understanding of the unique needs of young people as well as a commitment to helping them gain insight into themselves so they can grow and thrive as adults.
We diagnose and serve children and adolescents coping with: * Abusive Dating Relationships * Academic Challenges * ADHD * Anxiety and Stress-Related Disorders * Austism and Spectrum-Related Disorders * Bipolar Disorder * Body Image Issues * Chronic Headaches * Concussions * Cutting and Self-Mutilation * Depression * Epilepsy * Family Relational Problems * Learning Disorders * Low Self Esteem * Movement Disorders * Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder * Oppositional Defiance and Behavioral Problems * Substance Abuse * Trauma and PTSD.
It's tough being a parent today. Do you have a kid or teen who is struggling? Does your family need answers about your child's state of mind or are looking for actual tools to help heal your family dynamic? Our mission is simple: The Weichman Clinic provides comprehensive mental health services, evaluations, diagnosis and collaborative treatment. And we do it all in one place with a special focus on the unique physiological and psychological needs of children and adolescents.The Weichman Clinic at Hoag Hospital's Neurosciences Institute provides unparalleled access to doctors and therapists who exclusively specialize in children and adolescents. Its multi-disciplinary team of professionals treats a variety of issues such as childhood or teenage developmental issues and complex mental health concerns. Each team member bring in-depth understanding of the unique needs of young people as well as a commitment to helping them gain insight into themselves so they can grow and thrive as adults.
Dr. Lyssabeth Mattoon
Psychologist, PhD, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atwater, CA 95301 (Online Only)
Proven techniques are used to treat many other mental health issues as well, including depression, anxiety and bipolar.
Whether a traumatic experience has turned your world upside down or you are struggling to balance being neurodivergent, a single parent, veteran, survivor of narcissistic abuse or foster parent of children with special needs, I see you, have been there and offer well-tested, therapeutic solutions that will help. I understand first-hand how lonely, misunderstood and frustrated these circumstances can make you feel, so I have spent my career as a trauma specialist, helping others harness their inner strength to conquer these challenges. Call for a free 15 minute check in if you're ready for someone to fight alongside of you.
Proven techniques are used to treat many other mental health issues as well, including depression, anxiety and bipolar.
Whether a traumatic experience has turned your world upside down or you are struggling to balance being neurodivergent, a single parent, veteran, survivor of narcissistic abuse or foster parent of children with special needs, I see you, have been there and offer well-tested, therapeutic solutions that will help. I understand first-hand how lonely, misunderstood and frustrated these circumstances can make you feel, so I have spent my career as a trauma specialist, helping others harness their inner strength to conquer these challenges. Call for a free 15 minute check in if you're ready for someone to fight alongside of you.
I specialize in treatment of Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar D/O, variety of Addictions, Trauma, Intimacy and Relationship Issues, Eating D/O, Life Coaching and Performance Coaching.
WE OFFER EVENING AND WEEKEND APPOINTMENTS. My goal is to help you improve the quality of your life and make positive changes by reducing your Anxiety, Depression, eliminating stress, Addiction, and gaining back control. You will achieve a much higher quality of life in a safe, exclusive and caring environment. I will support you to discover your inner strength, and develop effective coping skills. You will experience freedom from emotional pain and feel empowered to achieve your goals and dreams. I provide CONCEIRGE care to executives and professionals.
I specialize in treatment of Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar D/O, variety of Addictions, Trauma, Intimacy and Relationship Issues, Eating D/O, Life Coaching and Performance Coaching.
WE OFFER EVENING AND WEEKEND APPOINTMENTS. My goal is to help you improve the quality of your life and make positive changes by reducing your Anxiety, Depression, eliminating stress, Addiction, and gaining back control. You will achieve a much higher quality of life in a safe, exclusive and caring environment. I will support you to discover your inner strength, and develop effective coping skills. You will experience freedom from emotional pain and feel empowered to achieve your goals and dreams. I provide CONCEIRGE care to executives and professionals.
I have worked with a myriad of mental illnesses from Depression and Anxiety to Bipolar d/o and Schizophrenia.
My name is Cathy Alix, and I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in San Bernardino, CA. I have a total of 14 years of experience and have been licensed since September 2016. For the last several years I have worked with a forensic population providing individual therapy. I am a very person-centered psychotherapist. I enjoy allowing the patient to determine therapeutic content while I do my best to meet them at their point of need while helping them to formulate their goals.
I have worked with a myriad of mental illnesses from Depression and Anxiety to Bipolar d/o and Schizophrenia.
My name is Cathy Alix, and I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in San Bernardino, CA. I have a total of 14 years of experience and have been licensed since September 2016. For the last several years I have worked with a forensic population providing individual therapy. I am a very person-centered psychotherapist. I enjoy allowing the patient to determine therapeutic content while I do my best to meet them at their point of need while helping them to formulate their goals.
We provide testing and therapy services to youth and adults struggling in their everyday functioning. PSYCHOTHERAPY: Treatment for youth, families, and adults with mild to severe depression, suicidality/hospitalization, anxiety, behavioral issues, relationship distress, and more. TESTING: Cognitive Testing (IQ/mental abilities); Psychoeducational Testing (Learning Disability/academic achievement); Developmental Testing (Autism Spectrum Disorder, language/motor delay, behavioral disturbance); ADHD Testing (distractibility/concentration, fidgety, impulsive); Behavioral/Emotional Testing (Depression, Schizophrenia, Bipolar, Anxiety).
We provide testing and therapy services to youth and adults struggling in their everyday functioning. PSYCHOTHERAPY: Treatment for youth, families, and adults with mild to severe depression, suicidality/hospitalization, anxiety, behavioral issues, relationship distress, and more. TESTING: Cognitive Testing (IQ/mental abilities); Psychoeducational Testing (Learning Disability/academic achievement); Developmental Testing (Autism Spectrum Disorder, language/motor delay, behavioral disturbance); ADHD Testing (distractibility/concentration, fidgety, impulsive); Behavioral/Emotional Testing (Depression, Schizophrenia, Bipolar, Anxiety).
I offer Enhanced and Integrative Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for the following diagnosis: ADHD, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Major Depressive Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and Asperger’s Disorder.
My primary focus in private practice is evaluation and assessment for a variety of psychological conditions, such as ADHD, Autism, Mood Disorders, Learning Disabilities and Personality Disorders.
The second focus I have is treatment. I have an integrative approach to therapy in which I use multiple modalities that fit my clients’ individual needs. Some of the modalities I use are interpersonal therapy, supportive therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy. I also view other factors that can affect the client, such as cultural, medical, and environmental factors.
I offer Enhanced and Integrative Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for the following diagnosis: ADHD, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Major Depressive Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and Asperger’s Disorder.
My primary focus in private practice is evaluation and assessment for a variety of psychological conditions, such as ADHD, Autism, Mood Disorders, Learning Disabilities and Personality Disorders.
The second focus I have is treatment. I have an integrative approach to therapy in which I use multiple modalities that fit my clients’ individual needs. Some of the modalities I use are interpersonal therapy, supportive therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy. I also view other factors that can affect the client, such as cultural, medical, and environmental factors.
Dr. Whelan is an experienced Licensed Clinical Psychologist who is passionate about establishing a strong alliance with her patients and providing excellence in care. She provides assessment, diagnosis, and treatment to patients with an array of psychological, neurological, and medical conditions. Dr. Whelan specializes in the treatment of depression and anxiety related disorders, chronic pain, sleep/eating disorders, substance use, grief, trauma, and bipolar spectrum conditions. She provides individualized, evidence-based psychotherapy involving a blend of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical-behavioral therapy (DBT),
Dr. Whelan is an experienced Licensed Clinical Psychologist who is passionate about establishing a strong alliance with her patients and providing excellence in care. She provides assessment, diagnosis, and treatment to patients with an array of psychological, neurological, and medical conditions. Dr. Whelan specializes in the treatment of depression and anxiety related disorders, chronic pain, sleep/eating disorders, substance use, grief, trauma, and bipolar spectrum conditions. She provides individualized, evidence-based psychotherapy involving a blend of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical-behavioral therapy (DBT),
Melissa Gentry
Psychological Associate, PsyD, CCHt, MA, CTE
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
Feeling stressed & overwhelmed? Seeking balance & peace of mind? I am dedicated to assisting clients in finding balance & acquiring emotional regulation tools to navigate their fast-paced lives, so that they can accomplish their goals & live the life of their dreams. I have supported clients with anxiety, ADHD, panic, depression, bipolar, stress, relationships, divorce, self-esteem, trauma, codependency, sexual concerns, weight loss, & addictions. Therapeutic support & resources await. All ages are welcome. Let's collaborate & grow.
Feeling stressed & overwhelmed? Seeking balance & peace of mind? I am dedicated to assisting clients in finding balance & acquiring emotional regulation tools to navigate their fast-paced lives, so that they can accomplish their goals & live the life of their dreams. I have supported clients with anxiety, ADHD, panic, depression, bipolar, stress, relationships, divorce, self-esteem, trauma, codependency, sexual concerns, weight loss, & addictions. Therapeutic support & resources await. All ages are welcome. Let's collaborate & grow.
See more therapy options for California
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.