Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Short Hills, NJ

Photo of Julia Farrell, LAC, Counselor
Julia Farrell
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
Short Hills, NJ 07078
Julia offers versatile counseling, drawing on approaches that meet the needs of each unique individual. Julia emphasizes how a holistic approach can be beneficial to improving all aspects of well-being. Experience consists of being employed at Philadelphia's Ronald McDonald House and Seabrook house in her early experiences within the field providing therapeutic supports. Additionally, she has worked with children, adolescents and adults, while at Genpsych PC Partial Hospital and Short Hillls Counseling PC as a clinician, treating diagnosis of anxiety, depression, OCD, Bipolar, Borderline Personality Disorder and Substance Abuse.
Julia offers versatile counseling, drawing on approaches that meet the needs of each unique individual. Julia emphasizes how a holistic approach can be beneficial to improving all aspects of well-being. Experience consists of being employed at Philadelphia's Ronald McDonald House and Seabrook house in her early experiences within the field providing therapeutic supports. Additionally, she has worked with children, adolescents and adults, while at Genpsych PC Partial Hospital and Short Hillls Counseling PC as a clinician, treating diagnosis of anxiety, depression, OCD, Bipolar, Borderline Personality Disorder and Substance Abuse.
(973) 834-6225 View (973) 834-6225
Photo of Priscilla S. Bauer, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Priscilla S. Bauer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Short Hills, NJ 07078
Addressing her personal and professional goals and aspirations, Priscilla transitioned to private practice where she held office at The Massler Center from 2012-2016, focusing treatment on bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, behavior, grief/loss, PTSD, personality disorders, eating disorders, and OCD.
Priscilla S. Bauer is a LCSW in NJ, graduating Fordham University. Post-graduation, she gained experience with individual, group, and family therapy in the Children/Adolescent Outpatient/Inpatient units at Trinitas Hospital and Monmouth Medical, and was employed with Hoboken UMC as a Crisis Screener intervening in psychiatric emergencies and conducted evaluations. Priscilla was then employed with Effective School Solutions in Glen Ridge, providing individual, group, and family therapy for students ages 11- to 18-years old, and gaining extensive knowledge of IEP and 504 Plan processes/development while working with the CST.
Addressing her personal and professional goals and aspirations, Priscilla transitioned to private practice where she held office at The Massler Center from 2012-2016, focusing treatment on bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, behavior, grief/loss, PTSD, personality disorders, eating disorders, and OCD.
Priscilla S. Bauer is a LCSW in NJ, graduating Fordham University. Post-graduation, she gained experience with individual, group, and family therapy in the Children/Adolescent Outpatient/Inpatient units at Trinitas Hospital and Monmouth Medical, and was employed with Hoboken UMC as a Crisis Screener intervening in psychiatric emergencies and conducted evaluations. Priscilla was then employed with Effective School Solutions in Glen Ridge, providing individual, group, and family therapy for students ages 11- to 18-years old, and gaining extensive knowledge of IEP and 504 Plan processes/development while working with the CST.
(862) 245-4567 View (862) 245-4567
Photo of John Migueis, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
John Migueis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Short Hills, NJ 07078
I have been working with individuals and families since 1998. The majority of my work has been with adolescents and adults who struggle with a variety of psychiatric, emotional and behavioral issues in individual and group settings. My specialties include Trauma, Anxiety, Mood Disorders (Depression, Bipolar), Addiction, Anger Management, Borderline Personality Disorder and Parenting.
I have been working with individuals and families since 1998. The majority of my work has been with adolescents and adults who struggle with a variety of psychiatric, emotional and behavioral issues in individual and group settings. My specialties include Trauma, Anxiety, Mood Disorders (Depression, Bipolar), Addiction, Anger Management, Borderline Personality Disorder and Parenting.
(908) 897-0815 View (908) 897-0815
Photo of Joshua Massler, PsyD, MA, Psychologist
Joshua Massler
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
Short Hills, NJ 07078
Massler has worked closely with children, adolescents and adults diagnosed with a myriad of disorders including but not limited to the following: Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Self-Esteem Issues, Adjustment Related Concerns, and Marital/Relationship Issues.
Dr. Joshua M. Massler is a licensed clinical psychologist practicing in the state of New Jersey. He received his doctorate degree from NYU Steinhardt School of Education in Applied Psychology, with a specialization in child and adolescent psychology and graduated with honors. Dr. Massler established his own private practice in 2003 and has since become one of the most sought after clinical psychologists in New Jersey and has been featured in numerous media publications. Dr. Massler is wholly committed to every child, adolescent and adult he treats and provides unparalleled attention to every patient he works with.
Massler has worked closely with children, adolescents and adults diagnosed with a myriad of disorders including but not limited to the following: Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Self-Esteem Issues, Adjustment Related Concerns, and Marital/Relationship Issues.
Dr. Joshua M. Massler is a licensed clinical psychologist practicing in the state of New Jersey. He received his doctorate degree from NYU Steinhardt School of Education in Applied Psychology, with a specialization in child and adolescent psychology and graduated with honors. Dr. Massler established his own private practice in 2003 and has since become one of the most sought after clinical psychologists in New Jersey and has been featured in numerous media publications. Dr. Massler is wholly committed to every child, adolescent and adult he treats and provides unparalleled attention to every patient he works with.
(973) 552-2008 View (973) 552-2008
Photo of Melanie Wexler, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melanie Wexler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Short Hills, NJ 07078
Welcome! My name is Melanie and I am a Licensed Social Worker (LSW) at the Massler Center for Psychological Wellness. Throughout my experience, I have had the pleasure of working with motivated individuals who struggle with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, ADHD, OCD, ASD, gender identity, and completing activities of daily life.
Welcome! My name is Melanie and I am a Licensed Social Worker (LSW) at the Massler Center for Psychological Wellness. Throughout my experience, I have had the pleasure of working with motivated individuals who struggle with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, ADHD, OCD, ASD, gender identity, and completing activities of daily life.
(862) 858-6137 View (862) 858-6137
Photo of Dr. Scot Seitz, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Scot Seitz
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Short Hills, NJ 07078  (Online Only)
I work with individuals, couples, and families across multiple states (via telehealth) who are seeking support for various mental health challenges. Many of my clients have difficulties related to anxiety, depression, and past trauma that get in the way of enjoying life and thriving to their fullest potential. I also work with people who are diagnosed with OCD, schizophrenia/ bipolar disorders, and related conditions. The foundation of my therapy is a collaborative relationship based on acceptance. I look beyond the mental health “condition” and seek to understand you as a person, influenced by your identities and past experiences.
I work with individuals, couples, and families across multiple states (via telehealth) who are seeking support for various mental health challenges. Many of my clients have difficulties related to anxiety, depression, and past trauma that get in the way of enjoying life and thriving to their fullest potential. I also work with people who are diagnosed with OCD, schizophrenia/ bipolar disorders, and related conditions. The foundation of my therapy is a collaborative relationship based on acceptance. I look beyond the mental health “condition” and seek to understand you as a person, influenced by your identities and past experiences.
(770) 651-0833 View (770) 651-0833
Photo of Melissa Scherzer - Scherzer Clinical & Behavioral Psychology, LLC, PsyD , Psychologist
Scherzer Clinical & Behavioral Psychology, LLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Short Hills, NJ 07078
I specialize in working with teens and adults struggling with mental health issues such as anxiety, behavioral disorders, ADHD, Mood Disorders, Trichotillomania, OCD, Autism Spectrum Disorder and Depression. I have extensive clinical experience with a variety of ages from preschool through later in adulthood. I bring a unique perspective to my practice as I am a Licensed Psychologist (#4865), a Certified School Psychologist, and a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst. I use a collaborative and practical approach in working with my clients.
I specialize in working with teens and adults struggling with mental health issues such as anxiety, behavioral disorders, ADHD, Mood Disorders, Trichotillomania, OCD, Autism Spectrum Disorder and Depression. I have extensive clinical experience with a variety of ages from preschool through later in adulthood. I bring a unique perspective to my practice as I am a Licensed Psychologist (#4865), a Certified School Psychologist, and a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst. I use a collaborative and practical approach in working with my clients.
(862) 260-8939 View (862) 260-8939
Photo of Gricel Mello, LPC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Gricel Mello
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ACS
Verified Verified
Short Hills, NJ 07078  (Online Only)
Are you feeling sad, anxious or overwhelmed? How about feeling disconnected or having no purpose in life? I understand that coming to therapy can be scary. We can feel so vulnerable opening up to a stranger about our confusions, fears and insecurities. Therapy is a process of self-exploration, change and healing. The therapy process will help you in gaining greater awareness about yourself, your relationships, and situations you find yourself in. In therapy, you will learn skills for coping and discover solutions to your problems.
Are you feeling sad, anxious or overwhelmed? How about feeling disconnected or having no purpose in life? I understand that coming to therapy can be scary. We can feel so vulnerable opening up to a stranger about our confusions, fears and insecurities. Therapy is a process of self-exploration, change and healing. The therapy process will help you in gaining greater awareness about yourself, your relationships, and situations you find yourself in. In therapy, you will learn skills for coping and discover solutions to your problems.
(908) 388-9012 View (908) 388-9012
Photo of Caitlin M Peterson, LCSW, CHT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Caitlin M Peterson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CHT
Verified Verified
Short Hills, NJ 07078
I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Heart-Centered Hypnotherapist. I treat individuals and couples. My life's work is to support others as they cross the bridge from a place of self doubt, victimization and crisis to lives full of awareness, personal responsibility and universal compassion. You have the answers within to transform your life; I'm simply a guide on your journey back "home" to your intrinsically loving self. While you may already "know what your issues are", do you feel stuck to break through and move forward into the life you really want to be living? That's when we know it's time to go deeper.
I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Heart-Centered Hypnotherapist. I treat individuals and couples. My life's work is to support others as they cross the bridge from a place of self doubt, victimization and crisis to lives full of awareness, personal responsibility and universal compassion. You have the answers within to transform your life; I'm simply a guide on your journey back "home" to your intrinsically loving self. While you may already "know what your issues are", do you feel stuck to break through and move forward into the life you really want to be living? That's when we know it's time to go deeper.
(631) 440-4292 View (631) 440-4292
Photo of Abigail Marshall, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Abigail Marshall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Short Hills, NJ 07078
As a trauma informed therapist, I am interested in the interconnectedness of the mind and body and use my training and experience to guide individuals through the process of identifying and strengthening the power within to achieve balance, joy, and a sense of greater purpose. I work using a holistic approach incorporating multiple aspects of the human experience, including nutrition, physical wellness and social or familial support. I am trained in Internal Family Systems (IFS) and have completed Level One through The IFS Institute.
As a trauma informed therapist, I am interested in the interconnectedness of the mind and body and use my training and experience to guide individuals through the process of identifying and strengthening the power within to achieve balance, joy, and a sense of greater purpose. I work using a holistic approach incorporating multiple aspects of the human experience, including nutrition, physical wellness and social or familial support. I am trained in Internal Family Systems (IFS) and have completed Level One through The IFS Institute.
(973) 221-9200 View (973) 221-9200
Photo of Lauren Ritz, LPC, ACS, DRCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lauren Ritz
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ACS, DRCC
Verified Verified
Short Hills, NJ 07078
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, Lauren is committed to helping individuals acquire skills and strategies for coping with difficult life stressors. Lauren has extensive experience working with individuals dually diagnosed with mental illness and an intellectual/developmental disability. She assists parents navigating the world of special education and provides parent coaching to manage or modify behaviors of concern. As a Certified Clinical Trauma Therapist, she works with individuals with varying experienced traumas utilizing a trauma informed lens in the therapeutic relationship.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, Lauren is committed to helping individuals acquire skills and strategies for coping with difficult life stressors. Lauren has extensive experience working with individuals dually diagnosed with mental illness and an intellectual/developmental disability. She assists parents navigating the world of special education and provides parent coaching to manage or modify behaviors of concern. As a Certified Clinical Trauma Therapist, she works with individuals with varying experienced traumas utilizing a trauma informed lens in the therapeutic relationship.
(973) 858-4814 View (973) 858-4814
Photo of Majin George, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Majin George
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Short Hills, NJ 07078
An ideal Client is one who is motivated for change and committed to the therapeutic process/relationship. Since I primarily work with Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, I prefer that the work done in therapy is practical and based on problem solving. Clients that are willing to trust in the process, to work earnestly towards change, and have flexibility to try and see what works best for them. I have experience working with a variety of diagnoses including Mood Disorders and Personality Disorders.
An ideal Client is one who is motivated for change and committed to the therapeutic process/relationship. Since I primarily work with Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, I prefer that the work done in therapy is practical and based on problem solving. Clients that are willing to trust in the process, to work earnestly towards change, and have flexibility to try and see what works best for them. I have experience working with a variety of diagnoses including Mood Disorders and Personality Disorders.
(973) 846-9337 View (973) 846-9337
Photo of Angela Gonnella, PsyD, Psychologist
Angela Gonnella
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Short Hills, NJ 07078
Dr. Angela Gonnella is a New Jersey licensed psychologist specializing in the treatment of anxiety, depression, trauma, and stress of adjustment in adolescents and adults. She also specializes in working with “emotionally sensitive” individuals who often feel like their emotions are intense, rapidly changing, and difficult to control. Her clinical work is driven by the evidenced based framework of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), with adaptions as needed to meet each individual’s needs. Dr. Gonnella’s approach to therapy involves directness, non-judgemental stance, genuineness, and humor.
Dr. Angela Gonnella is a New Jersey licensed psychologist specializing in the treatment of anxiety, depression, trauma, and stress of adjustment in adolescents and adults. She also specializes in working with “emotionally sensitive” individuals who often feel like their emotions are intense, rapidly changing, and difficult to control. Her clinical work is driven by the evidenced based framework of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), with adaptions as needed to meet each individual’s needs. Dr. Gonnella’s approach to therapy involves directness, non-judgemental stance, genuineness, and humor.
(973) 564-1969 View (973) 564-1969
Photo of Meredith Strauss, LCSW, MSW, RYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Meredith Strauss
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, RYT
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Short Hills, NJ 07078
"Peace. It does not mean to be in a place where there is no noise, trouble, or hard work. It means to be in the midst of those things and still be calm in your heart". Are you having trouble managing it all? Depressed? Anxious? Angry? At Light Street Psychotherapy we work with adults, adolescents and their families who suffer from trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues and anger management. Meredith's therapeutic approach helps clients learn the skills to stay centered in a stressful and fast paced world. She finds appropriate solutions to problems and enhances interpersonal relationships.
"Peace. It does not mean to be in a place where there is no noise, trouble, or hard work. It means to be in the midst of those things and still be calm in your heart". Are you having trouble managing it all? Depressed? Anxious? Angry? At Light Street Psychotherapy we work with adults, adolescents and their families who suffer from trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues and anger management. Meredith's therapeutic approach helps clients learn the skills to stay centered in a stressful and fast paced world. She finds appropriate solutions to problems and enhances interpersonal relationships.
(973) 949-7354 View (973) 949-7354
Photo of Dr. Barbara Hanna, DCFT, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Barbara Hanna
Marriage & Family Therapist, DCFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
Short Hills, NJ 07078  (Online Only)
As a licensed marriage and family therapist, I am trained to think systemically and work with individuals, couples and families. My expertise, however, is working with couples and parents. Over the years, I have helped many couples overcome their relationship issues, including: communication issues, infidelity, sexual issues, etc. I have also worked with many families, helping parents overcome issues with their children, both young children and adults. I have also extensively explored issues related to working with couples where one partner is experiencing chronic pain.
As a licensed marriage and family therapist, I am trained to think systemically and work with individuals, couples and families. My expertise, however, is working with couples and parents. Over the years, I have helped many couples overcome their relationship issues, including: communication issues, infidelity, sexual issues, etc. I have also worked with many families, helping parents overcome issues with their children, both young children and adults. I have also extensively explored issues related to working with couples where one partner is experiencing chronic pain.
(332) 241-5467 View (332) 241-5467
Photo of Hana Dolan Haar, LAC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Hana Dolan Haar
Pre-Licensed Professional, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Short Hills, NJ 07078
Are you experiencing feelings of constant worry and fear, can't shake the feeling that you aren't good enough, or like you should be doing more? Are you worried about your career or finances? Disappointed you aren't in the place you thought you would be at this age? Are you tired of comparing yourself to others on social media, using negative self-talk and procrastinating on your goals? Anxiety is your body's natural response to stress. It is a feeling of fear that can manifest differently from person to person. When left untreated, symptoms of anxiety can impair your daily functioning, career and relationships.
Are you experiencing feelings of constant worry and fear, can't shake the feeling that you aren't good enough, or like you should be doing more? Are you worried about your career or finances? Disappointed you aren't in the place you thought you would be at this age? Are you tired of comparing yourself to others on social media, using negative self-talk and procrastinating on your goals? Anxiety is your body's natural response to stress. It is a feeling of fear that can manifest differently from person to person. When left untreated, symptoms of anxiety can impair your daily functioning, career and relationships.
(973) 791-5486 View (973) 791-5486
Photo of Vincent J. Fitzgerald, LCSW, CFRC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Vincent J. Fitzgerald
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CFRC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Short Hills, NJ 07078  (Online Only)
Psychotherapy is a relationship in which client and clinician align in the hope of growth and change. I am ready to invest in people willing to invest in themselves, and I do so in a compassionate, and inclusive way. I am open to individuals, couples, and families, am sensitive to cultural and religious differential, and welcome all members of the LGBTQ community. Through our relationship, we will realize your potential, and actualize your highest self. When you are ready to connect, I will meet you where you are, and journey with your toward fulfillment.
Psychotherapy is a relationship in which client and clinician align in the hope of growth and change. I am ready to invest in people willing to invest in themselves, and I do so in a compassionate, and inclusive way. I am open to individuals, couples, and families, am sensitive to cultural and religious differential, and welcome all members of the LGBTQ community. Through our relationship, we will realize your potential, and actualize your highest self. When you are ready to connect, I will meet you where you are, and journey with your toward fulfillment.
(973) 828-8274 View (973) 828-8274
Photo of Jeryl P Rempell, PhD, Psychologist
Jeryl P Rempell
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Short Hills, NJ 07078
I have practiced over 40 years as an individual, couples and certified family therapist, particularly addressing issues of anxiety, depression and loss, as they emerge throughout the life cycle. With couples, I strive to facilitate improving your communication, whether it be in service of remaining together, or instead, through the difficult process of separation and divorce. My major focus is on both you and your children moving forward.
I have practiced over 40 years as an individual, couples and certified family therapist, particularly addressing issues of anxiety, depression and loss, as they emerge throughout the life cycle. With couples, I strive to facilitate improving your communication, whether it be in service of remaining together, or instead, through the difficult process of separation and divorce. My major focus is on both you and your children moving forward.
(973) 671-8130 View (973) 671-8130
Photo of Michelle Lodato, MSW, LSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Lodato
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Short Hills, NJ 07078
Change is HARD. Period. Through therapy we will work together to bring about change for your life. If stress, anxiety, or depression is keeping you down we will work to strengthen your coping mechanisms so that you feel empowered to bring about change, to feel happy. Feeling stuck? One little movement can create a ripple effect in other aspects of your world such as school, work, marriage, and relationships. New and healthier habits await you. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy ( CBT ) can help. We can do it together.
Change is HARD. Period. Through therapy we will work together to bring about change for your life. If stress, anxiety, or depression is keeping you down we will work to strengthen your coping mechanisms so that you feel empowered to bring about change, to feel happy. Feeling stuck? One little movement can create a ripple effect in other aspects of your world such as school, work, marriage, and relationships. New and healthier habits await you. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy ( CBT ) can help. We can do it together.
(973) 447-4982 View (973) 447-4982
Photo of Erika Hurtado, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erika Hurtado
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Short Hills, NJ 07078
I specialize in trauma informed care with teens and adults who are navigating painful and challenging life transitions. These challenges may have left you with questions such as why do I act/feel this way? Or the opposite: why am I not having an emotional response to this? Maybe a sense of disconnect from your body? Sometimes you are able to identify the root cause of those actions and feelings that caused a significant transition in our lives. Other times, you do not understand the behaviors and emotions that lead to disruptions within yourself and relationships. Sometimes leaving you feeling numb or disconnected from your body.
I specialize in trauma informed care with teens and adults who are navigating painful and challenging life transitions. These challenges may have left you with questions such as why do I act/feel this way? Or the opposite: why am I not having an emotional response to this? Maybe a sense of disconnect from your body? Sometimes you are able to identify the root cause of those actions and feelings that caused a significant transition in our lives. Other times, you do not understand the behaviors and emotions that lead to disruptions within yourself and relationships. Sometimes leaving you feeling numb or disconnected from your body.
(908) 829-6425 View (908) 829-6425
1

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.