Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Rockland County, NY

Photo of Liana Bekker in Rockland County, NY
Liana Bekker
MSW, BC, AADP, DC, Life Co
Verified Verified
Suffern, NY 10901
My goal is to create a nonjudgmental environment and a safe place to share all of life’s stressors. Specializing in all areas of discomfort and struggles. Discover you inner balance between vulnerability and making the right choices! Take a mindful and soulful approach to making your life better with future awareness of your issues at hand. Focus on mental health with an option to holistically focus on mind, body, and soul as one entity. If we treat it all we receive the maximum mental health experience because one affects the other. Individual, couples, sex, CBT, DBT, and somatic, adhd, bipolar, and personality disorders addressed.
My goal is to create a nonjudgmental environment and a safe place to share all of life’s stressors. Specializing in all areas of discomfort and struggles. Discover you inner balance between vulnerability and making the right choices! Take a mindful and soulful approach to making your life better with future awareness of your issues at hand. Focus on mental health with an option to holistically focus on mind, body, and soul as one entity. If we treat it all we receive the maximum mental health experience because one affects the other. Individual, couples, sex, CBT, DBT, and somatic, adhd, bipolar, and personality disorders addressed.
(845) 867-2489 View (845) 867-2489
Photo of Sonya Tulevech, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rockland County, NY
Sonya Tulevech
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Pearl River, NY 10965  (Online Only)
I also have experience with the LGBTQ community and those suffering with bipolar disorder.
Hello, My approach to therapy is eclectic with an emphasis on healing by establishing and reaching my clients' personal goals. I achieve this by using a mix of Cognitive and Dialectical Behavioral therapy among other evidence based techniques. My communication style is warm and receptive while compassionately and closely listening to my clients. I am loyal and non-judgmental. No problem is too difficult to address. I am equally at ease working with both conventional and unconventional people. Laughter often enters into our sessions when there is something to mutually laugh about.
I also have experience with the LGBTQ community and those suffering with bipolar disorder.
Hello, My approach to therapy is eclectic with an emphasis on healing by establishing and reaching my clients' personal goals. I achieve this by using a mix of Cognitive and Dialectical Behavioral therapy among other evidence based techniques. My communication style is warm and receptive while compassionately and closely listening to my clients. I am loyal and non-judgmental. No problem is too difficult to address. I am equally at ease working with both conventional and unconventional people. Laughter often enters into our sessions when there is something to mutually laugh about.
(845) 523-6598 View (845) 523-6598
Photo of Samantha Kramer, Psychologist in Rockland County, NY
Samantha Kramer
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Nyack, NY 10960  (Online Only)
Have things been feeling like a lot lately? Perhaps tasks that used to be easy are feeling overwhelming, or you’ve felt tense, stuck, and exhausted? Whether you’re struggling with recent changes or events, or there are long-term, chronic issues that leave you looking for support, know that help is available. I offer individual psychotherapy for individuals struggling with anxiety and panic, depression, transitions and difficult life changes, self-esteem and identity issues, family conflict and interpersonal issues, as well as more serious and persistent mental illness such as Bipolar Disorder and Schizophrenia/psychosis.
Have things been feeling like a lot lately? Perhaps tasks that used to be easy are feeling overwhelming, or you’ve felt tense, stuck, and exhausted? Whether you’re struggling with recent changes or events, or there are long-term, chronic issues that leave you looking for support, know that help is available. I offer individual psychotherapy for individuals struggling with anxiety and panic, depression, transitions and difficult life changes, self-esteem and identity issues, family conflict and interpersonal issues, as well as more serious and persistent mental illness such as Bipolar Disorder and Schizophrenia/psychosis.
(845) 769-0813 View (845) 769-0813
Photo of Katelyn McDonagh, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rockland County, NY
Katelyn McDonagh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CASAC
Verified Verified
Blauvelt, NY 10913  (Online Only)
Welcome! I know how much it took for you to get here. At times life can become overwhelming which leads to stress and feelings that are unmanageable. I am passionate about helping others navigate through life stressors and changes to obtain a healthy balance while promoting self-care. My experience is working with individuals and families who struggle with substance use, mental health, adjustment disorders, trauma, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders, relationship conflicts, legal difficulties and self-esteem issues.
Welcome! I know how much it took for you to get here. At times life can become overwhelming which leads to stress and feelings that are unmanageable. I am passionate about helping others navigate through life stressors and changes to obtain a healthy balance while promoting self-care. My experience is working with individuals and families who struggle with substance use, mental health, adjustment disorders, trauma, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders, relationship conflicts, legal difficulties and self-esteem issues.
(845) 436-3695 View (845) 436-3695
Photo of Matthew Rosen, Psychologist in Rockland County, NY
Matthew Rosen
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Pomona, NY 10970
I am a psychologist who has provided psychotherapy and psychological testing services to children, adolescents, and adults for over 30 years. I have developed a particular interest in working with hypersensitive children and in the differential diagnosis of ADHD and Bipolar Disorder. Many of the pervasively hypersensitive children and adolescents with whom I work have come to me with a diagnosis of ADHD, but are then found, after a thorough evaluation, to have either an anxiety or mood disorder. As a therapist who works primarily with children and adolescents, I have found that when children feel understood and valued, they connect.
I am a psychologist who has provided psychotherapy and psychological testing services to children, adolescents, and adults for over 30 years. I have developed a particular interest in working with hypersensitive children and in the differential diagnosis of ADHD and Bipolar Disorder. Many of the pervasively hypersensitive children and adolescents with whom I work have come to me with a diagnosis of ADHD, but are then found, after a thorough evaluation, to have either an anxiety or mood disorder. As a therapist who works primarily with children and adolescents, I have found that when children feel understood and valued, they connect.
(845) 262-2123 View (845) 262-2123
Photo of Emily D'Auria, Counselor in Rockland County, NY
Emily D'Auria
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
West Nyack, NY 10994
Emily is experienced in treating anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, posttraumatic stress and other trauma-related disorders, relationship issues, and more.
All people struggle. All people have unique experiences and make choices. All people experience pain, fear, and loss. All people deserve safety and loving kindness. All people are capable of growth and learning. All people have inherent goodness. Emily D'Auria believes strongly that the universality of human experience shows us we all have more in common than not. In periods of suffering and struggle, individuals may feel alone and unreachable. By fostering therapeutic connection rooted in warmth and safety, Emily works to facilitate an individual's ability to come back to their true selves.
Emily is experienced in treating anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, posttraumatic stress and other trauma-related disorders, relationship issues, and more.
All people struggle. All people have unique experiences and make choices. All people experience pain, fear, and loss. All people deserve safety and loving kindness. All people are capable of growth and learning. All people have inherent goodness. Emily D'Auria believes strongly that the universality of human experience shows us we all have more in common than not. In periods of suffering and struggle, individuals may feel alone and unreachable. By fostering therapeutic connection rooted in warmth and safety, Emily works to facilitate an individual's ability to come back to their true selves.
(914) 809-9594 View (914) 809-9594
Photo of Alexandra Reiter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rockland County, NY
Alexandra Reiter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Suffern, NY 10901
I have experience working with adolescents and adults, treating substance use, anxiety, depression, bipolar, trauma, mood disorders, anger, and ADHD.
Welcome, lets get started! As a therapist, my goal is to help individuals gain insight into their everyday lives, thought process, behavior patterns, and overall well-being. Life can be challenging, to say the least. Whether its relationships, family dynamics, self-esteem, or all of the other ongoing life stressors and responsibilities you have to manage, I am here to support you in striving to achieve your full potential. By providing a safe and judgement free environment, I strongly believe that meaningful growth can be made, and that no one should have to do it alone.
I have experience working with adolescents and adults, treating substance use, anxiety, depression, bipolar, trauma, mood disorders, anger, and ADHD.
Welcome, lets get started! As a therapist, my goal is to help individuals gain insight into their everyday lives, thought process, behavior patterns, and overall well-being. Life can be challenging, to say the least. Whether its relationships, family dynamics, self-esteem, or all of the other ongoing life stressors and responsibilities you have to manage, I am here to support you in striving to achieve your full potential. By providing a safe and judgement free environment, I strongly believe that meaningful growth can be made, and that no one should have to do it alone.
(201) 862-7736 View (201) 862-7736
Photo of Rossana M Spataro, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rockland County, NY
Rossana M Spataro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Suffern, NY 10901
Rossana’s core experiences include working with families in crisis, behavior modification, attention deficit disorder, bipolar disorder, major depression, anxiety, anger management, domestic violence, sexual and emotional abuse, personality disorders, acculturation, complicated grief and health.
Rossana Spataro is a bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker, graduated with a Master’s degree from Fordham University Graduate School of Social Services. Rossana has also received her bachelor’s degree from Fordham University College of Liberal Studies. Rossana has proven record of over 14 years’ clinical experience working with families, children, adolescents, adults, couples and groups.
Rossana’s core experiences include working with families in crisis, behavior modification, attention deficit disorder, bipolar disorder, major depression, anxiety, anger management, domestic violence, sexual and emotional abuse, personality disorders, acculturation, complicated grief and health.
Rossana Spataro is a bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker, graduated with a Master’s degree from Fordham University Graduate School of Social Services. Rossana has also received her bachelor’s degree from Fordham University College of Liberal Studies. Rossana has proven record of over 14 years’ clinical experience working with families, children, adolescents, adults, couples and groups.
(914) 344-5879 View (914) 344-5879
Photo of Carol Greiff-Lagstein, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rockland County, NY
Carol Greiff-Lagstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LACSW, LCAT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Orangeburg, NY 10962
Making the decision to start therapy is a brave step toward changing one's life. My goal is to guide my client to make those changes in a manner that feels comfortable and safe. My focus is positive, hopeful, and respectful of the individual or family's spirit. My job is to help my client gain insight, increase motivation, and provide the support to implement better choices. I work with families, individuals and/or children to change unproductive patterns and to learn life enhancing strategies. As a social worker, art therapist and trained family therapist, my strengths lie in my extensive experience and the use of creative techniques. As a professor at two colleges, I teach others to become therapists.
Making the decision to start therapy is a brave step toward changing one's life. My goal is to guide my client to make those changes in a manner that feels comfortable and safe. My focus is positive, hopeful, and respectful of the individual or family's spirit. My job is to help my client gain insight, increase motivation, and provide the support to implement better choices. I work with families, individuals and/or children to change unproductive patterns and to learn life enhancing strategies. As a social worker, art therapist and trained family therapist, my strengths lie in my extensive experience and the use of creative techniques. As a professor at two colleges, I teach others to become therapists.
(845) 207-8219 View (845) 207-8219
Photo of Rivkah Reichler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rockland County, NY
Rivkah Reichler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pomona, NY 10970  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with issues related to trauma, grief, addiction, anxiety, depression or major life changes? If so, the good news is that there are scientifically proven methods to help you heal and get relief from your symptoms. As a trained and experienced therapist, I can guide you on a journey of self-discovery that will ultimately help you unburden, transform and heal.
Are you struggling with issues related to trauma, grief, addiction, anxiety, depression or major life changes? If so, the good news is that there are scientifically proven methods to help you heal and get relief from your symptoms. As a trained and experienced therapist, I can guide you on a journey of self-discovery that will ultimately help you unburden, transform and heal.
(802) 424-8920 View (802) 424-8920
Photo of Dorothy Whitton in Rockland County, NY
Dorothy Whitton
RN, MSN, CHT
Verified Verified
Nyack, NY 10960
I'm a compassionate listener in helping you achieve a relaxed, easier, happier healthier life through holistic therapies. Skills : hypnosis, guided imagery, visualizing new life patterns, regression therapy, Reiki, energy modalities plus nutrition that will generate more energy, vitality and less stress in your life. We will work together in getting you healthier, happier with new changes in mind and body. I will guide you with meditation and help you to gain confidence and live the life you are now meant to live in your unique life style. You can be free of pain and live a well life without chronic diseases. You will achieve.
I'm a compassionate listener in helping you achieve a relaxed, easier, happier healthier life through holistic therapies. Skills : hypnosis, guided imagery, visualizing new life patterns, regression therapy, Reiki, energy modalities plus nutrition that will generate more energy, vitality and less stress in your life. We will work together in getting you healthier, happier with new changes in mind and body. I will guide you with meditation and help you to gain confidence and live the life you are now meant to live in your unique life style. You can be free of pain and live a well life without chronic diseases. You will achieve.
(845) 818-0243 View (845) 818-0243
Photo of Robin Steiner Wallace, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rockland County, NY
Robin Steiner Wallace
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Nyack, NY 10960
I believe that life is all about experience and relationships that affect different individuals in different ways, and for different reasons. For that reason, I have an integrated and eclectic approach using relational, psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, supportive and family psychotherapy treatment modalities to treat Eating Disorders, Anxiety, Depression, OCD and Personality Disorders including self injurious behaviors. Treatment is individualized to the needs of each client and collaboration can be coordinated with a nutritionist, psychiatrist and physician when appropriate. I have a group therapy program for adolescents, young adults and women struggling with eating disorders, body image and self -esteem issues.
I believe that life is all about experience and relationships that affect different individuals in different ways, and for different reasons. For that reason, I have an integrated and eclectic approach using relational, psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, supportive and family psychotherapy treatment modalities to treat Eating Disorders, Anxiety, Depression, OCD and Personality Disorders including self injurious behaviors. Treatment is individualized to the needs of each client and collaboration can be coordinated with a nutritionist, psychiatrist and physician when appropriate. I have a group therapy program for adolescents, young adults and women struggling with eating disorders, body image and self -esteem issues.
(845) 443-4792 View (845) 443-4792
Photo of Dov Krakowski, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rockland County, NY
Dov Krakowski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New City, NY 10956
It can happen to even the best of relationships. You find yourself getting frustrated with your partner or getting stuck in endless loops of negative interactions. You wish you could recapture the intimacy and connection you once had or know that your relationship been knocked off-course by crisis or life stress. Secure connection and a revitalized relationship is possible. 
It can happen to even the best of relationships. You find yourself getting frustrated with your partner or getting stuck in endless loops of negative interactions. You wish you could recapture the intimacy and connection you once had or know that your relationship been knocked off-course by crisis or life stress. Secure connection and a revitalized relationship is possible. 
(845) 245-6216 View (845) 245-6216
Photo of Vincent Mauro, Counselor in Rockland County, NY
Vincent Mauro
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Valley Cottage, NY 10989  (Online Only)
My name is Vincent Mauro and I am a LMHC licensed mental health counselor. I specialize in treating depression, trauma, anxiety, OCD, sexual function, and related difficulties. In sessions, I work to help my clients better understand the relationship between their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. I help my clients achieve individual and interpersonal growth through goal-oriented talk therapy.
My name is Vincent Mauro and I am a LMHC licensed mental health counselor. I specialize in treating depression, trauma, anxiety, OCD, sexual function, and related difficulties. In sessions, I work to help my clients better understand the relationship between their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. I help my clients achieve individual and interpersonal growth through goal-oriented talk therapy.
(845) 552-4277 View (845) 552-4277
Photo of Emotional Archeology in Rockland County, NY
Emotional Archeology
LMHC, CCTP-2
Verified Verified
New City, NY 10956
The way in which people navigate the world is through experience. Many of us have had difficult experiences at different times in our lives which have contributed to the way in which we view the world and more importantly, ourselves. As such, most people carry negative views or beliefs about themselves that are simply not true. Until those beliefs are challenged in an effort to change them, we more often than not, experience emotional or psychological discomfort in many forms. Therapy is a space that serves to remind each individual of their ability to positively impact their lives by cultivating a more accepting view of themselves.
The way in which people navigate the world is through experience. Many of us have had difficult experiences at different times in our lives which have contributed to the way in which we view the world and more importantly, ourselves. As such, most people carry negative views or beliefs about themselves that are simply not true. Until those beliefs are challenged in an effort to change them, we more often than not, experience emotional or psychological discomfort in many forms. Therapy is a space that serves to remind each individual of their ability to positively impact their lives by cultivating a more accepting view of themselves.
(845) 251-3124 View (845) 251-3124
Photo of Gillian Elizabeth Sinclair, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rockland County, NY
Gillian Elizabeth Sinclair
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MA, CHT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nyack, NY 10960
Specializing with young adults, adolescents/families navigate the often stormy path toward becoming a healthy individual has been my clinical passion for the past 10+ years. Prior to becoming a psychotherapist, I have extensive training in mindfulness/depth psychology, hypnosis, writing as a way of healing through journaling, slam poetry, collage and narrative. I see opportunity for transformation in difficulty and believe that crisis can often facilitate greater life meaning. Helping teenagers as well as adults discover their true sense of self through dialogue and attunement is key to my work as a psychotherapist utilizing compassionate inquiry and mindfulness practice.
Specializing with young adults, adolescents/families navigate the often stormy path toward becoming a healthy individual has been my clinical passion for the past 10+ years. Prior to becoming a psychotherapist, I have extensive training in mindfulness/depth psychology, hypnosis, writing as a way of healing through journaling, slam poetry, collage and narrative. I see opportunity for transformation in difficulty and believe that crisis can often facilitate greater life meaning. Helping teenagers as well as adults discover their true sense of self through dialogue and attunement is key to my work as a psychotherapist utilizing compassionate inquiry and mindfulness practice.
(845) 637-3573 View (845) 637-3573
Photo of Russell Schwartz, Psychologist in Rockland County, NY
Russell Schwartz
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
New City, NY 10956
I am a licensed psychologist in private practice in New City, New York. I have been in private practice since 1996. I also worked as a School Psychologist retiring in 2016 after working in the school setting for 35 years. I received additional training through the Westchester Center for the Study of Psychoanalysis and Psychotherapy attending a two year program in Child and Adolescent Psychotherapy and another two year program in Adult Psychotherapy. When working with children and adolescents, I provide space for them to comfortably express their thoughts and feelings regarding their experiences. I also work closely with parents while respecting the confidentiality and comfort level of their children. When working with adults, I provide a safe and trusting setting in which understanding leads to both acceptance and change, if necessary. Changes are co-created through the positive, caring interactions of therapist and patient.
I am a licensed psychologist in private practice in New City, New York. I have been in private practice since 1996. I also worked as a School Psychologist retiring in 2016 after working in the school setting for 35 years. I received additional training through the Westchester Center for the Study of Psychoanalysis and Psychotherapy attending a two year program in Child and Adolescent Psychotherapy and another two year program in Adult Psychotherapy. When working with children and adolescents, I provide space for them to comfortably express their thoughts and feelings regarding their experiences. I also work closely with parents while respecting the confidentiality and comfort level of their children. When working with adults, I provide a safe and trusting setting in which understanding leads to both acceptance and change, if necessary. Changes are co-created through the positive, caring interactions of therapist and patient.
(845) 252-8169 View (845) 252-8169
Photo of Amelie Southwood, Counselor in Rockland County, NY
Amelie Southwood
Counselor, LMHC, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Suffern, NY 10901
To accept life's major changes with grace and dignity can be excruciatingly difficult. And yet, it is a challenge to welcome because when approached with careful consideration, it invites self-definition and intentional living. Are psychic wounds or limiting self-beliefs holding you back? What matters most to you? The Chinese sage, Lao Tsu, said, "If you don't change direction, you will end up where you are heading." Are you happy with your direction? If not, come see me. I listen carefully and help you find your way. I am an active, fully-engaged therapist.
To accept life's major changes with grace and dignity can be excruciatingly difficult. And yet, it is a challenge to welcome because when approached with careful consideration, it invites self-definition and intentional living. Are psychic wounds or limiting self-beliefs holding you back? What matters most to you? The Chinese sage, Lao Tsu, said, "If you don't change direction, you will end up where you are heading." Are you happy with your direction? If not, come see me. I listen carefully and help you find your way. I am an active, fully-engaged therapist.
(646) 362-8535 View (646) 362-8535
Photo of Brianna Morrell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rockland County, NY
Brianna Morrell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LMSW, LSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Nyack, NY 10994
Each of us exists in the world with a complexity and story exclusively our own. Through an eclectic, client-centered approach to therapy, I offer you the opportunity to explore the parts of your story unique to your identity, develop and nurture self-compassion, and integrate those parts into the fullness of your human experience. At the heart of my work, I strive to create an empathic and safe environment that fully allows you to show up with vulnerability and honesty as your authentic self.
Each of us exists in the world with a complexity and story exclusively our own. Through an eclectic, client-centered approach to therapy, I offer you the opportunity to explore the parts of your story unique to your identity, develop and nurture self-compassion, and integrate those parts into the fullness of your human experience. At the heart of my work, I strive to create an empathic and safe environment that fully allows you to show up with vulnerability and honesty as your authentic self.
(845) 640-5255 View (845) 640-5255
Photo of Julie Taft, Mental Health Counselor in Rockland County, NY
Julie Taft
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nyack, NY 10960
My goal as a therapist is to partner with my clients to help them improve their quality of life. I am a licensed mental health counselor, a certified school counselor, and have been trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing). With over twenty years of experience working in school, agency, and private practice settings, I have extensive familiarity with diverse populations of children, adolescents, and adults. Using a client-centered approach to counseling and therapy, I want my clients to feel supported, empowered, and encouraged to take an active role in their treatment.
My goal as a therapist is to partner with my clients to help them improve their quality of life. I am a licensed mental health counselor, a certified school counselor, and have been trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing). With over twenty years of experience working in school, agency, and private practice settings, I have extensive familiarity with diverse populations of children, adolescents, and adults. Using a client-centered approach to counseling and therapy, I want my clients to feel supported, empowered, and encouraged to take an active role in their treatment.
(845) 412-8646 View (845) 412-8646

See more therapy options for Rockland County

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.