Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Saint Michaels, MD

Photo of Ann C Johnson, LCPC, MEd, Counselor
Ann C Johnson
Counselor, LCPC, MEd
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Saint Michaels, MD 21663
If you have difficulty managing your anxiety, depression, or navigating everyday life, I am here to help. Feeling unmotivated, no longer interested in things you used to enjoy, or finding it hard to maintain relationships? Have you pushed your mental health needs to the side to care for others? These are just a few things I am able to assist you with. The pandemic has been extremely hard on those with mental health issues and has also highlighted these issues for those who have been avoiding them. I urge you to advocate for yourself and get the help you need today.
If you have difficulty managing your anxiety, depression, or navigating everyday life, I am here to help. Feeling unmotivated, no longer interested in things you used to enjoy, or finding it hard to maintain relationships? Have you pushed your mental health needs to the side to care for others? These are just a few things I am able to assist you with. The pandemic has been extremely hard on those with mental health issues and has also highlighted these issues for those who have been avoiding them. I urge you to advocate for yourself and get the help you need today.
(410) 291-8186 View (410) 291-8186
Photo of Julie Parsons, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julie Parsons
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Michaels, MD 21663
Bottom line, I help people feel better. I approach all my clients with a sense of awe at their unique journey. I believe that a different therapy must be constructed for each client because each has a unique story. I bring warmth and wisdom to the process of change, employing my significant experience in the treatment of depression, anxiety and eating disorders. First and foremost, I build trusting relationships with my clients, offering them a safe, non-judgmental space to explore issues, and express thoughts and process feelings.
Bottom line, I help people feel better. I approach all my clients with a sense of awe at their unique journey. I believe that a different therapy must be constructed for each client because each has a unique story. I bring warmth and wisdom to the process of change, employing my significant experience in the treatment of depression, anxiety and eating disorders. First and foremost, I build trusting relationships with my clients, offering them a safe, non-judgmental space to explore issues, and express thoughts and process feelings.
(202) 800-1996 View (202) 800-1996
Photo of Chelsea Slacum, LCSW-C, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chelsea Slacum
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Michaels, MD 21663
Please e-mail me at chelseaslacumlcsw.c@gmail.com for immediate response and appointment availability. ----------------------- I know first-hand the twists and turns life can take you on. I have a deep understanding of the challenges individuals, couples, families, and children face on a daily basis. Life's often overwhelming demands can result in anxiety, depression, and other unhealthy ways of managing stress. I desire to work with clients to help empower them through identifying and conquering patterns of negative thoughts and behaviors while working toward developing a healthy, balanced lifestyle that everyone deserves to have.
Please e-mail me at chelseaslacumlcsw.c@gmail.com for immediate response and appointment availability. ----------------------- I know first-hand the twists and turns life can take you on. I have a deep understanding of the challenges individuals, couples, families, and children face on a daily basis. Life's often overwhelming demands can result in anxiety, depression, and other unhealthy ways of managing stress. I desire to work with clients to help empower them through identifying and conquering patterns of negative thoughts and behaviors while working toward developing a healthy, balanced lifestyle that everyone deserves to have.
(410) 705-2551 View (410) 705-2551
Photo of Sasha Whiting, LCSW-C, C-IAYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sasha Whiting
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, C-IAYT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Saint Michaels, MD 21663
Are you ready to find the best version of yourself? I specialize in working with clients to overcome traumatic experiences, anxiety and life transitions by creating a safe and nurturing environment. My goal is to help you explore your past experiences and understand how they impact the way you respond to life today. By using a variety of treatment modalities ranging from EMDR, traditional talk therapy and more expressive forms of therapy, you will overcome obstacles in a way that feels comfortable. Your journey is unique; therefore, treatment is tailored to your needs.
Are you ready to find the best version of yourself? I specialize in working with clients to overcome traumatic experiences, anxiety and life transitions by creating a safe and nurturing environment. My goal is to help you explore your past experiences and understand how they impact the way you respond to life today. By using a variety of treatment modalities ranging from EMDR, traditional talk therapy and more expressive forms of therapy, you will overcome obstacles in a way that feels comfortable. Your journey is unique; therefore, treatment is tailored to your needs.
(410) 376-8581 View (410) 376-8581

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Johnny Barton, MSW,  LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Johnny Barton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Easton, MD 21601
Johnny Barton, LICSW, LCSWC, provides compassionate and nonjudgmental support to clients in Maryland. He focuses on the present moment, creating a space where clients can openly express their concerns and build trust. His goal is to help individuals navigate their challenges with empathy and expertise. Johnny's approach to therapy includes a wide range of services such as individual therapy, couples therapy, family therapy, and group therapy. He is passionate about addressing issues related to anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and gender identity.
Johnny Barton, LICSW, LCSWC, provides compassionate and nonjudgmental support to clients in Maryland. He focuses on the present moment, creating a space where clients can openly express their concerns and build trust. His goal is to help individuals navigate their challenges with empathy and expertise. Johnny's approach to therapy includes a wide range of services such as individual therapy, couples therapy, family therapy, and group therapy. He is passionate about addressing issues related to anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and gender identity.
(866) 846-0024 View (866) 846-0024
Photo of Cynthia D Browne, MSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cynthia D Browne
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Easton, MD 21601  (Online Only)
This has also included a great deal of work with affective disorders ( bipolar, depression), and trauma.
I was fortunate to attend a unique graduate school at Smith College that focused on both clinical, diagnostic excellence and also on understanding the client in their social/cultural circumstances. My experience is broad and varied and I have had the privilege to be taught by some of the best and brightest clinicians in the areas of trauma, anxiety and depression. I continue to see folks in my office in Towson, MD but also have my office in Easton. I see all age ranges including small children with whom I have worked for over 20 years. I am often referred clients who have been unable to find accurate diagnoses and effective therapy.
This has also included a great deal of work with affective disorders ( bipolar, depression), and trauma.
I was fortunate to attend a unique graduate school at Smith College that focused on both clinical, diagnostic excellence and also on understanding the client in their social/cultural circumstances. My experience is broad and varied and I have had the privilege to be taught by some of the best and brightest clinicians in the areas of trauma, anxiety and depression. I continue to see folks in my office in Towson, MD but also have my office in Easton. I see all age ranges including small children with whom I have worked for over 20 years. I am often referred clients who have been unable to find accurate diagnoses and effective therapy.
(410) 938-8474 View (410) 938-8474
Photo of Ruth Wittersgreen, PhD, Psychologist
Ruth Wittersgreen
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Easton, MD 21601
My specialty areas include: working through trauma, grief, attachment loss, physical health difficulties, relationship/couple's therapy to help people find and maintain satisfying emotionally and sexually intimate relationships, and working with people with bipolar, depression, & anxiety.
I've been providing psychotherapy for over twenty-five years. I am passionate about this work and have helped many people change their lives for the better. I believe in a person's ability to make their life as full and rich as they want it to be. Therapy can help you get what you need and want in your relationships, work, and other areas of life. I am easy to talk to and bring a lot of warmth and caring to therapy. I sometimes use innovative approaches including walking in nature with clients, hypnotherapy, pet therapy, and writing/art therapy.
My specialty areas include: working through trauma, grief, attachment loss, physical health difficulties, relationship/couple's therapy to help people find and maintain satisfying emotionally and sexually intimate relationships, and working with people with bipolar, depression, & anxiety.
I've been providing psychotherapy for over twenty-five years. I am passionate about this work and have helped many people change their lives for the better. I believe in a person's ability to make their life as full and rich as they want it to be. Therapy can help you get what you need and want in your relationships, work, and other areas of life. I am easy to talk to and bring a lot of warmth and caring to therapy. I sometimes use innovative approaches including walking in nature with clients, hypnotherapy, pet therapy, and writing/art therapy.
(202) 670-2900 View (202) 670-2900
Photo of Dr. Katherine E Smith - KES Private Practice, PsyD, MA, Psychologist
KES Private Practice
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
Easton, MD 21601  (Online Only)
Thank you for taking a moment to view my Psychology Today profile. You can learn more about my practice by visiting www.kesprivatepractice.com. My name is Katherine E. Smith, and I am a licensed psychologist who works with individuals 14 years of age and over. My training has provided me the opportunity to work with a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, LGBTQIA+ issues including sexuality and gender diversity, as well as working with women who experience reproductive trauma including infertility, pregnancy loss, and perinatal mental health disorders.
Thank you for taking a moment to view my Psychology Today profile. You can learn more about my practice by visiting www.kesprivatepractice.com. My name is Katherine E. Smith, and I am a licensed psychologist who works with individuals 14 years of age and over. My training has provided me the opportunity to work with a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, LGBTQIA+ issues including sexuality and gender diversity, as well as working with women who experience reproductive trauma including infertility, pregnancy loss, and perinatal mental health disorders.
(410) 970-3949 View (410) 970-3949
Photo of Dr. Brian Richards, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Brian Richards
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Easton, MD 21601  (Online Only)
Dr. Brian Richards provides Advanced Diagnostic Screenings to clients ages 17+. An advanced diagnostic screening (ADS) refers to a comprehensive and detailed evaluation conducted by a trained psychologist to help you understand complex psychological disorders or conditions. This type of assessment goes beyond basic or preliminary evaluations and aims to provide a thorough understanding of your diagnosis and behaviors including ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar, personality disorders, and insomnia. To schedule an appointment, go to www.SHINEMaryland.com.
Dr. Brian Richards provides Advanced Diagnostic Screenings to clients ages 17+. An advanced diagnostic screening (ADS) refers to a comprehensive and detailed evaluation conducted by a trained psychologist to help you understand complex psychological disorders or conditions. This type of assessment goes beyond basic or preliminary evaluations and aims to provide a thorough understanding of your diagnosis and behaviors including ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar, personality disorders, and insomnia. To schedule an appointment, go to www.SHINEMaryland.com.
(410) 216-1459 View (410) 216-1459
Photo of Patricia Brown, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Patricia Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Easton, MD 21601  (Online Only)
Holistic Approach to Mental Health Challenges: Whether you're navigating anxiety, depression, or bipolar disorder, I bring a comprehensive toolkit to support you in your journey.
With an enriching journey spanning 26 years, I have dedicated my professional life to the art and science of psychotherapy. My expertise is not just deep but also varied, enabling me to provide tailored therapeutic interventions that resonate with each individual's unique experiences and challenges. Every therapy session with me is grounded in a strength-based approach. I believe in harnessing your inherent strengths and resilience, ensuring that every step forward is built on a foundation of empowerment and self-belief. Your well-being is my mission. Let's embark on this transformative journey together.
Holistic Approach to Mental Health Challenges: Whether you're navigating anxiety, depression, or bipolar disorder, I bring a comprehensive toolkit to support you in your journey.
With an enriching journey spanning 26 years, I have dedicated my professional life to the art and science of psychotherapy. My expertise is not just deep but also varied, enabling me to provide tailored therapeutic interventions that resonate with each individual's unique experiences and challenges. Every therapy session with me is grounded in a strength-based approach. I believe in harnessing your inherent strengths and resilience, ensuring that every step forward is built on a foundation of empowerment and self-belief. Your well-being is my mission. Let's embark on this transformative journey together.
(301) 835-2295 View (301) 835-2295
Photo of Camina Hirota-Lee, MA, LGMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Camina Hirota-Lee
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LGMFT
Verified Verified
Easton, MD 21601  (Online Only)
As a Licensed Graduate Marriage and Family Therapist, I work with individuals, couples, children, adolescents, and families. I have experience working with issues such as anxiety, depression, bipolar, trauma, and issues affecting the LGBTQ+ community. I work from a multicultural perspective while utilizing techniques from solution-focused and cognitive-behavioral therapy models. My counseling philosophy recognizes that the client is the expert in their own life and that everybody has the ability to grow and change. Therapy is a setting where you can help identify unresolved problems that are impacting your access to that ability.
As a Licensed Graduate Marriage and Family Therapist, I work with individuals, couples, children, adolescents, and families. I have experience working with issues such as anxiety, depression, bipolar, trauma, and issues affecting the LGBTQ+ community. I work from a multicultural perspective while utilizing techniques from solution-focused and cognitive-behavioral therapy models. My counseling philosophy recognizes that the client is the expert in their own life and that everybody has the ability to grow and change. Therapy is a setting where you can help identify unresolved problems that are impacting your access to that ability.
(240) 873-1498 View (240) 873-1498
Photo of Allison Lewis, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Allison Lewis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Easton, MD 21601
Life can become overwhelming and at times suffocating. Living each day on edge, guided by constant worry or feelings of not living your life to the fullest potential. You are not alone and you do not have to live your life this way. Anxiety and depression can grow into unhealthy feelings that completely define and engulf us. Self-criticism, thoughts of distress and hopelessness become our constant inner dialogue. Let me help you unleash your superpower against these debilitating ailments and move into your next chapter of living. Our therapy sessions will be personalized and centered around YOU.
Life can become overwhelming and at times suffocating. Living each day on edge, guided by constant worry or feelings of not living your life to the fullest potential. You are not alone and you do not have to live your life this way. Anxiety and depression can grow into unhealthy feelings that completely define and engulf us. Self-criticism, thoughts of distress and hopelessness become our constant inner dialogue. Let me help you unleash your superpower against these debilitating ailments and move into your next chapter of living. Our therapy sessions will be personalized and centered around YOU.
(443) 249-9450 View (443) 249-9450
Photo of Beth Chatham, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Beth Chatham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Easton, MD 21601
Beth Chatham, LCSW Beth Chatham is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Maryland who has been practicing since 1992. She has a Bachelor’s degree from University of Maryland Baltimore County and a Master’s degree from Salisbury University. Beth uses a variety of modalities to best meet the individual’s needs. She is kind, caring, and enjoys helping with various societal transitions, but tells it like it is. Beth believes that therapy is your time and wants you get what you need. Outside of work, Beth enjoys reading, crafting, hanging out with her son, camping, traveling, cooking, and baking.
Beth Chatham, LCSW Beth Chatham is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Maryland who has been practicing since 1992. She has a Bachelor’s degree from University of Maryland Baltimore County and a Master’s degree from Salisbury University. Beth uses a variety of modalities to best meet the individual’s needs. She is kind, caring, and enjoys helping with various societal transitions, but tells it like it is. Beth believes that therapy is your time and wants you get what you need. Outside of work, Beth enjoys reading, crafting, hanging out with her son, camping, traveling, cooking, and baking.
(667) 202-1982 View (667) 202-1982
Photo of Kate Goodell, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kate Goodell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Easton, MD 21601  (Online Only)
Kate invites each client to welcome and honor all parts of the self, including both the wounded and unwounded parts, acknowledging the pain carried by wounded parts of self. She uses various interventions to balance the nervous system, fostering mindful reactions to life events. She champions the body's inherent wisdom and supports embodiment for wholeness. Breathwork techniques help release deeply-held emotions from stressful experiences. Her practice integrates various therapeutic approaches like Polyvagal Theory, EMDR, BBTRS, Somatic Therapy, Sound Healing, Parts Work, Mind-Body Therapies, and Psychodynamic Therapy.
Kate invites each client to welcome and honor all parts of the self, including both the wounded and unwounded parts, acknowledging the pain carried by wounded parts of self. She uses various interventions to balance the nervous system, fostering mindful reactions to life events. She champions the body's inherent wisdom and supports embodiment for wholeness. Breathwork techniques help release deeply-held emotions from stressful experiences. Her practice integrates various therapeutic approaches like Polyvagal Theory, EMDR, BBTRS, Somatic Therapy, Sound Healing, Parts Work, Mind-Body Therapies, and Psychodynamic Therapy.
(410) 498-5465 View (410) 498-5465
Photo of M. Gale Tucker, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
M. Gale Tucker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Easton, MD 21601
Everyone, during various times in his/her life, goes through difficult times. You may be confused about which direction to go, how to handle change, how to parent difficult children, how to manage the care of elderly parents in addition to your own life responsibilities, and/or how to improve important relationships.
Everyone, during various times in his/her life, goes through difficult times. You may be confused about which direction to go, how to handle change, how to parent difficult children, how to manage the care of elderly parents in addition to your own life responsibilities, and/or how to improve important relationships.
(410) 670-7834 View (410) 670-7834
Photo of Carly Burton, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carly Burton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Easton, MD 21601
Waitlist for new clients
My ultimate goal is to provide a non-judgmental space that will allow you to explore your concerns in a safe, compassionate, and caring environment. I rely on the therapeutic relationship being at the crux of change for the individuals and families I work with. Whether you are experiencing anxiety, depression, post-traumatic response, relationship issues, or having difficulty adjusting to the chaos of the world, I'd be honored to help. I value working collaboratively with my clients to gain an understanding of where they are now and where they would like to be.
My ultimate goal is to provide a non-judgmental space that will allow you to explore your concerns in a safe, compassionate, and caring environment. I rely on the therapeutic relationship being at the crux of change for the individuals and families I work with. Whether you are experiencing anxiety, depression, post-traumatic response, relationship issues, or having difficulty adjusting to the chaos of the world, I'd be honored to help. I value working collaboratively with my clients to gain an understanding of where they are now and where they would like to be.
View
Photo of Lindsey Worm, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lindsey Worm
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Easton, MD 21601
Life is not always easy and no one gets through unscathed. We all have been dealt different life experiences which could be responsible for both physical and mental pain, loss, psychological trauma, and emotional distress in your life. Are you at that point where you feel mentally, emotionally, or physically stuck? Do you care deeply about the people in your life but are feeling uncertain how to strengthen those relationships? You are in the right place. By making the decision to begin therapy, you are not only investing in yourself but your relationships with loved ones as well. It's time to make a change.
Life is not always easy and no one gets through unscathed. We all have been dealt different life experiences which could be responsible for both physical and mental pain, loss, psychological trauma, and emotional distress in your life. Are you at that point where you feel mentally, emotionally, or physically stuck? Do you care deeply about the people in your life but are feeling uncertain how to strengthen those relationships? You are in the right place. By making the decision to begin therapy, you are not only investing in yourself but your relationships with loved ones as well. It's time to make a change.
(410) 348-7708 View (410) 348-7708
Photo of Ashley Aroom, LCPC, Counselor
Ashley Aroom
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Easton, MD 21601
Life has been challenging lately. Maybe you are having trouble managing your anxiety and the everyday tasks of your life feel overwhelming. You want a positive change, but you don’t know where to start. The stressors of your life alone feel completely unbearable and you need some help. You dream of a better life but reaching your goals seem near impossible. You are not alone, whatever is going on you can live the life you want and I want to help you do it. Taking those first steps in therapy can be scary but those steps can be gradual and it shows your strength. I give you a space to safe! Currently accepting new clients!
Life has been challenging lately. Maybe you are having trouble managing your anxiety and the everyday tasks of your life feel overwhelming. You want a positive change, but you don’t know where to start. The stressors of your life alone feel completely unbearable and you need some help. You dream of a better life but reaching your goals seem near impossible. You are not alone, whatever is going on you can live the life you want and I want to help you do it. Taking those first steps in therapy can be scary but those steps can be gradual and it shows your strength. I give you a space to safe! Currently accepting new clients!
(667) 868-0506 View (667) 868-0506
Photo of Jessica Baker, LCPC
Jessica Baker
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Easton, MD 21601
You're filled with uncertainty and struggling to navigating your emotions. Thoughts keep racing through your head and you can't get them to stop. All of the sudden, you don't feel like yourself and know something has to change. You have tried therapy in the past but it has not helped. Finding a new therapist feels daunting. But now you are ready to uncover the tools to understand your deepest emotions and heal from the inside out. I am a licensed clinical professional counselor in Maryland working with individuals who have depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, struggles with body image and self-esteem.
You're filled with uncertainty and struggling to navigating your emotions. Thoughts keep racing through your head and you can't get them to stop. All of the sudden, you don't feel like yourself and know something has to change. You have tried therapy in the past but it has not helped. Finding a new therapist feels daunting. But now you are ready to uncover the tools to understand your deepest emotions and heal from the inside out. I am a licensed clinical professional counselor in Maryland working with individuals who have depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, struggles with body image and self-esteem.
(443) 767-4252 View (443) 767-4252
Photo of Coleen Lynn- Simpson, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Coleen Lynn- Simpson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Easton, MD 21601
Waitlist for new clients
Our experience enables us to offer effective outpatient, individualized, client-focused care. We treat a number of mental health disorders, and provide a neutral ground to individuals and families while also offering a unique treatment modality of Animal Assisted Therapy. Please visit creativecounseling.net for more info!
Our experience enables us to offer effective outpatient, individualized, client-focused care. We treat a number of mental health disorders, and provide a neutral ground to individuals and families while also offering a unique treatment modality of Animal Assisted Therapy. Please visit creativecounseling.net for more info!
(667) 200-1202 View (667) 200-1202

See more therapy options for Saint Michaels

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.