Photo of Paula Corano, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Paula Corano
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90038  (Online Only)
Do you feel a bit lost, down in the dumps, or as if life has thrown you one too many curveballs lately? Now imagine how it would be not to worry constantly, to have the strength to do things again. As a licensed MFT, I focus on promoting change and growth in individuals, couples, and families who are experiencing difficulties. I approach therapy in a holistic manner by supporting clients in setting goals, solving problems, and changing unhelpful patterns while providing empathy and practical feedback. Among my areas of expertise are anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, stress, coping with loss, adjustment to life changes, & parenting.
Do you feel a bit lost, down in the dumps, or as if life has thrown you one too many curveballs lately? Now imagine how it would be not to worry constantly, to have the strength to do things again. As a licensed MFT, I focus on promoting change and growth in individuals, couples, and families who are experiencing difficulties. I approach therapy in a holistic manner by supporting clients in setting goals, solving problems, and changing unhelpful patterns while providing empathy and practical feedback. Among my areas of expertise are anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, stress, coping with loss, adjustment to life changes, & parenting.
(323) 747-5025 View (323) 747-5025
Photo of Marcela Rondani, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Marcela Rondani
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CEDS, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025
I believe that psychotherapy can be a tool to help someone to increase their self-awareness and promote healing and reparation to the life's pain and struggles. If you would like someone on your side to the new journey of rediscovering who you are and who you want to be, that is my goal. To provide support through this new path with the objective that life will unfold with more joy and happiness.
I believe that psychotherapy can be a tool to help someone to increase their self-awareness and promote healing and reparation to the life's pain and struggles. If you would like someone on your side to the new journey of rediscovering who you are and who you want to be, that is my goal. To provide support through this new path with the objective that life will unfold with more joy and happiness.
(310) 933-3406 View (310) 933-3406
Photo of Octave - Los Angeles Clinic, Psychologist in Los Angeles, CA
Octave - Los Angeles Clinic
Psychologist, PhD, PsyD, LCSW, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90024  (Online Only)
Octave is a modern practice creating a new standard for mental health care that’s both high-quality and accessible. With in-person and virtual clinics in California, Connecticut, Florida, New Jersey, New York, Texas, and Washington D.C., we partner with you to develop personalized plans that can include individual, couples, and family therapy to best suit your needs. Grounded in science, our approach enables you to experience profound change that is just as measurable as it is meaningful. Learn more at www.findoctave.com
Octave is a modern practice creating a new standard for mental health care that’s both high-quality and accessible. With in-person and virtual clinics in California, Connecticut, Florida, New Jersey, New York, Texas, and Washington D.C., we partner with you to develop personalized plans that can include individual, couples, and family therapy to best suit your needs. Grounded in science, our approach enables you to experience profound change that is just as measurable as it is meaningful. Learn more at www.findoctave.com
(310) 905-6841 View (310) 905-6841
Photo of Intrapsyc - Online Psychotherapy & Life Coaching in Los Angeles, CA
Intrapsyc - Online Psychotherapy & Life Coaching
MS, MA, MHRS, MHT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90010
We use to have hard times whenever faced by difficulties that challenge our ego. Most of the time, we tend to avoid coping with these challenges, or we do deal with them in destructive ways, mainly because of not having learned more assertive functional ways to take care of ourselves, relationships and circumstances in life. My approach is focused on promoting your insight about why you think, feel and react the ways you do, supporting you to take advantage of your own potentials, improve skills and guiding you on taking good care of your core needs and expectations.
We use to have hard times whenever faced by difficulties that challenge our ego. Most of the time, we tend to avoid coping with these challenges, or we do deal with them in destructive ways, mainly because of not having learned more assertive functional ways to take care of ourselves, relationships and circumstances in life. My approach is focused on promoting your insight about why you think, feel and react the ways you do, supporting you to take advantage of your own potentials, improve skills and guiding you on taking good care of your core needs and expectations.
(415) 742-2894 View (415) 742-2894
Photo of Sergio Fernando Gueller, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Sergio Fernando Gueller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90066
Rather than list my technical skills or present a diatribe about my approach to psychotherapy, I will tell you a few significant facts about myself and the work we will do together. I have been providing treatment for 30 years. My clients improve, they recover, and they heal. I assist people who suffer from anxiety and depression through insight and introspection focused on the analysis of a patient’s deep-seeded fear-related trauma and how that fear impacts the NOW . I focus on channeling the energy that can be harnessed from fear, a powerful human emotion that can rob us of our life energy.
Rather than list my technical skills or present a diatribe about my approach to psychotherapy, I will tell you a few significant facts about myself and the work we will do together. I have been providing treatment for 30 years. My clients improve, they recover, and they heal. I assist people who suffer from anxiety and depression through insight and introspection focused on the analysis of a patient’s deep-seeded fear-related trauma and how that fear impacts the NOW . I focus on channeling the energy that can be harnessed from fear, a powerful human emotion that can rob us of our life energy.
(424) 320-6563 View (424) 320-6563
Photo of Solange Zelman, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Solange Zelman, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90026  (Online Only)
Therapy is about exploring, experimenting, discovering, and being vulnerable. In our therapy together you will learn to increase self-compassion and mindfulness, and your ability to sit with uncertainty and bear witness to uncomfortable feelings and body sensations. You will gain awareness of the role negative core beliefs and thoughts have upon mood and learn how to challenge those negative thought patterns. You will learn to set appropriate boundaries by asserting feelings, recognizing wants and needs, and identifying the role shame and guilt might play in causing unhealthy, harmful, stale, and inauthentic behaviors.
Therapy is about exploring, experimenting, discovering, and being vulnerable. In our therapy together you will learn to increase self-compassion and mindfulness, and your ability to sit with uncertainty and bear witness to uncomfortable feelings and body sensations. You will gain awareness of the role negative core beliefs and thoughts have upon mood and learn how to challenge those negative thought patterns. You will learn to set appropriate boundaries by asserting feelings, recognizing wants and needs, and identifying the role shame and guilt might play in causing unhealthy, harmful, stale, and inauthentic behaviors.
(310) 340-2213 View (310) 340-2213
Photo of Gabriela Gomes Costardi, Psychologist in Los Angeles, CA
Gabriela Gomes Costardi
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90024
Você tem tido dificuldade com alguma situação e sofre com isso? Já tentou “tudo”, mas continua se sentindo sem saída e imerso em sofrimento psíquico, o qual pode se manifestar como isolamento, auto-crítica, desesperança, preocupação, medo, insatisfação, conflitos interpessoais, mudanças de humor, dissociação da realidade, sensação de perseguição, etc? Você tem se perguntado se algumas das dificuldades que você tem enfrentado - como, ser incapaz de agir ou repetidamente fazer escolhas erradas - podem dizer algo sobre seus dilemas subjetivos? Essa é a hora de fazer análise.
Você tem tido dificuldade com alguma situação e sofre com isso? Já tentou “tudo”, mas continua se sentindo sem saída e imerso em sofrimento psíquico, o qual pode se manifestar como isolamento, auto-crítica, desesperança, preocupação, medo, insatisfação, conflitos interpessoais, mudanças de humor, dissociação da realidade, sensação de perseguição, etc? Você tem se perguntado se algumas das dificuldades que você tem enfrentado - como, ser incapaz de agir ou repetidamente fazer escolhas erradas - podem dizer algo sobre seus dilemas subjetivos? Essa é a hora de fazer análise.
(747) 234-2782 View (747) 234-2782
Photo of Rodrigo Dasilva, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Rodrigo Dasilva
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90046  (Online Only)
I am currently seeing clients in New York, California and Florida State. I believe Psychotherapy is a collaborative venture that can help people lead a fulfilling life and maintain healthy relationships. In our work together my intention is to create a judgement-free space where I can understand your personal experience and nurture and support you in your journey towards authenticity and change. If you suffer with states of depression, anxiety, or loneliness, or you feel generally dissatisfied with aspects of your life, through our work together we can explore skills and tools that move you toward growth.
I am currently seeing clients in New York, California and Florida State. I believe Psychotherapy is a collaborative venture that can help people lead a fulfilling life and maintain healthy relationships. In our work together my intention is to create a judgement-free space where I can understand your personal experience and nurture and support you in your journey towards authenticity and change. If you suffer with states of depression, anxiety, or loneliness, or you feel generally dissatisfied with aspects of your life, through our work together we can explore skills and tools that move you toward growth.
(914) 809-8119 View (914) 809-8119
Photo of Karen Bernardes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Karen Bernardes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90046  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
If you have been diagnosed with a Chronic Health Condition you may be struggling, feeling depressed, overwhelmed, anxious and scared. Are you looking to regain a life worth living and manage your health? Fearful of what your future will be if you don't make positive changes? Are you grieving all you used to do and focusing only on the I can't? Want to build your skills to help manage health and your future in a positive way? I provide a safe, supportive environment where you'll use proven techniques to meet your goals.
If you have been diagnosed with a Chronic Health Condition you may be struggling, feeling depressed, overwhelmed, anxious and scared. Are you looking to regain a life worth living and manage your health? Fearful of what your future will be if you don't make positive changes? Are you grieving all you used to do and focusing only on the I can't? Want to build your skills to help manage health and your future in a positive way? I provide a safe, supportive environment where you'll use proven techniques to meet your goals.
(323) 744-1931 View (323) 744-1931
Photo of Isabela França Magalhães, Psychologist in Los Angeles, CA
Isabela França Magalhães
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90034  (Online Only)
You might be grappling with a crisis, feeling inexplicably stuck, or simply seeking a new perspective. Perhaps you are finding yourself caught in the same conflicts, engaging in the same harmful habits, or at a loss for connection. Whatever brings you here, I assure you will be met with curiosity, warmth, and genuine care. I offer a safe and contained space for you to freely and fully explore your inner world. My aim is to be more than a listening ear - it is to guide you in uncovering meaningful insights in service of lasting, life-enhancing change. Ultimately, I hope our work will help you find a sense of clarity and momentum.
You might be grappling with a crisis, feeling inexplicably stuck, or simply seeking a new perspective. Perhaps you are finding yourself caught in the same conflicts, engaging in the same harmful habits, or at a loss for connection. Whatever brings you here, I assure you will be met with curiosity, warmth, and genuine care. I offer a safe and contained space for you to freely and fully explore your inner world. My aim is to be more than a listening ear - it is to guide you in uncovering meaningful insights in service of lasting, life-enhancing change. Ultimately, I hope our work will help you find a sense of clarity and momentum.
(310) 861-3403 View (310) 861-3403
Photo of Alessandra De Oliveira Szekir, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Alessandra De Oliveira Szekir
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025  (Online Only)
Hello and Seja bem-vindo! I grew up in Brazil and moved to California to pursue my career as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I truly believe that due to life challenges, stressful jobs, career and busy lifestyle, it's very easy to dismiss our inner voice. That is the voice that wants to be heard, tell us about our emotions and hurdles. Allowing your inner voice to be heard will empower you to embrace the beautiful journey of self discovery.
Hello and Seja bem-vindo! I grew up in Brazil and moved to California to pursue my career as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I truly believe that due to life challenges, stressful jobs, career and busy lifestyle, it's very easy to dismiss our inner voice. That is the voice that wants to be heard, tell us about our emotions and hurdles. Allowing your inner voice to be heard will empower you to embrace the beautiful journey of self discovery.
(619) 359-6563 View (619) 359-6563
Photo of Cristina Wood, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Cristina Wood
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90094  (Online Only)
Find Your Path to Healing and Joy Are you overwhelmed by anxiety, trauma, or depression? You're not alone. Many struggle with these invisible burdens daily, but there's hope. You deserve to lead a life marked not by your struggles, but by your strength and happiness. As a dedicated trauma therapist and EMDR specialist, I am here to guide you through the shadows of your past into a brighter, joy-filled future.
Find Your Path to Healing and Joy Are you overwhelmed by anxiety, trauma, or depression? You're not alone. Many struggle with these invisible burdens daily, but there's hope. You deserve to lead a life marked not by your struggles, but by your strength and happiness. As a dedicated trauma therapist and EMDR specialist, I am here to guide you through the shadows of your past into a brighter, joy-filled future.
(310) 359-9382 View (310) 359-9382
Photo of Dr. Vicki D. Coleman, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Los Angeles, CA
Dr. Vicki D. Coleman
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, EdD, LCPC, CCMHC, MAC/DAC, SAP
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90066
TELEHEALTH OFFERED! WHY ARE YOU SO ANGRY? In the 21st century global economy, Anger is a major challenge! Although a valid emotion, unmonitored, it can lead to stress, inappropriate behavior, and violence. A former Tenured Professor at Purdue University in West Lafayette, IN, I earned a Doctorate in Psychology from Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ. Publications include books (Amazon Bestsellers), 9 chapters, and refereed journal articles. Anger is frequently the antecedent to a myriad of issues. My goal is to facilitate the identification of viable solutions. I have 6 Full Clinical Licenses in 5 States-CA, IL, IN, MI, & NV.
TELEHEALTH OFFERED! WHY ARE YOU SO ANGRY? In the 21st century global economy, Anger is a major challenge! Although a valid emotion, unmonitored, it can lead to stress, inappropriate behavior, and violence. A former Tenured Professor at Purdue University in West Lafayette, IN, I earned a Doctorate in Psychology from Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ. Publications include books (Amazon Bestsellers), 9 chapters, and refereed journal articles. Anger is frequently the antecedent to a myriad of issues. My goal is to facilitate the identification of viable solutions. I have 6 Full Clinical Licenses in 5 States-CA, IL, IN, MI, & NV.
(702) 830-7337 View (702) 830-7337
Photo of Rodrigo Dasilva, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Rodrigo Dasilva
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90046  (Online Only)
I am currently seeing clients in California and New York and Florida States. I believe Psychotherapy is a collaborative venture that can help people lead a fulfilling life and maintain healthy relationships. In our work together my intention is to create a judgement-free space where I can understand your personal experience and nurture and support you in your journey towards authenticity and change. If you suffer with states of depression, anxiety, or loneliness, or you feel generally dissatisfied with aspects of your life, through our work together we can explore skills and tools that move you toward growth
I am currently seeing clients in California and New York and Florida States. I believe Psychotherapy is a collaborative venture that can help people lead a fulfilling life and maintain healthy relationships. In our work together my intention is to create a judgement-free space where I can understand your personal experience and nurture and support you in your journey towards authenticity and change. If you suffer with states of depression, anxiety, or loneliness, or you feel generally dissatisfied with aspects of your life, through our work together we can explore skills and tools that move you toward growth
(646) 941-8097 View (646) 941-8097
Photo of Alex J. Russan, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Los Angeles, CA
Alex J. Russan
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90028
People come to see me for a wide variety of reasons, but almost always, they feel stuck in some way—whether from difficult or volatile relationships, overwhelming thoughts and emotions, addictions, or the effects of trauma. I work with adults of all ages, kids, and couples, to figure out what’s keeping them stuck and unhappy, and to help them in getting freed up to live life in new ways. As a psychoanalytic therapist, I can help you cultivate a more integrated and accepting awareness of the different parts of your life, yourself, and your present experience. Our work together would be unique, based on you as an individual.
People come to see me for a wide variety of reasons, but almost always, they feel stuck in some way—whether from difficult or volatile relationships, overwhelming thoughts and emotions, addictions, or the effects of trauma. I work with adults of all ages, kids, and couples, to figure out what’s keeping them stuck and unhappy, and to help them in getting freed up to live life in new ways. As a psychoanalytic therapist, I can help you cultivate a more integrated and accepting awareness of the different parts of your life, yourself, and your present experience. Our work together would be unique, based on you as an individual.
(323) 792-1835 View (323) 792-1835
Photo of The Saturday Center for Psychotherapy, Psychologist in Los Angeles, CA
The Saturday Center for Psychotherapy
Psychologist, PhD, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025
"Being listened to." That is the experience of being at the Saturday Center: intensely, deeply, actively, empathically listened to; seen, heard and understood. For over 30 years we have provided this type of counseling and psychotherapy to individuals, couples, and families. TSC is committed to dynamic psychotherapy and to providing treatment based on need rather than economics. The Center is staffed by advanced psychological interns, psychological assistants and marriage & family therapist interns who are supervised by a group of experienced, licensed private practitioners dedicated to the practice and teaching of psychotherapy.
"Being listened to." That is the experience of being at the Saturday Center: intensely, deeply, actively, empathically listened to; seen, heard and understood. For over 30 years we have provided this type of counseling and psychotherapy to individuals, couples, and families. TSC is committed to dynamic psychotherapy and to providing treatment based on need rather than economics. The Center is staffed by advanced psychological interns, psychological assistants and marriage & family therapist interns who are supervised by a group of experienced, licensed private practitioners dedicated to the practice and teaching of psychotherapy.
(310) 879-5804 View (310) 879-5804
Photo of Licia Freeman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Licia Freeman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MEd, LMFT, RLT, CSAT
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90046
At night you lie in bed wondering "Can this marriage really be saved?" You are so tired of feeling lonely, disconnected, and ignored. This is not AT ALL where you thought you'd ever end up. No more interesting conversations, no date nights, no fun, no sex. The thought "I can't wait to get home" turned into "Do I have to go home?" What happened? Will you ever reconnect with your spouse? Will you ever feel cherished and loved again? You've tried to fix it, but it didn't work. You got back defensiveness and criticism instead. You need HELP!. You can't do it alone. Should you stay or should you go?
At night you lie in bed wondering "Can this marriage really be saved?" You are so tired of feeling lonely, disconnected, and ignored. This is not AT ALL where you thought you'd ever end up. No more interesting conversations, no date nights, no fun, no sex. The thought "I can't wait to get home" turned into "Do I have to go home?" What happened? Will you ever reconnect with your spouse? Will you ever feel cherished and loved again? You've tried to fix it, but it didn't work. You got back defensiveness and criticism instead. You need HELP!. You can't do it alone. Should you stay or should you go?
(770) 352-0029 View (770) 352-0029

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Ana Carla G Laidley, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Ana Carla G Laidley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Inglewood, CA 90305
One of my primary career objectives is help people helping themselves. I see Psychotherapy as a powerful tool for self-assistance and personal growth. My primary mission as psychotherapist is to encourage and assist people in finding ways to solve their emotional problems and develop more effective coping skills to deal with their issues. Through therapy people may find help to improve self-esteem, obtain self-confidence that promote a better quality life. Additionally, people may work on interpersonal relationship issues, fears, emotional conflicts, and traumas.
One of my primary career objectives is help people helping themselves. I see Psychotherapy as a powerful tool for self-assistance and personal growth. My primary mission as psychotherapist is to encourage and assist people in finding ways to solve their emotional problems and develop more effective coping skills to deal with their issues. Through therapy people may find help to improve self-esteem, obtain self-confidence that promote a better quality life. Additionally, people may work on interpersonal relationship issues, fears, emotional conflicts, and traumas.
(424) 322-7401 View (424) 322-7401
Photo of Patricia Keiko Masuda-Story, Psychologist in Los Angeles, CA
Patricia Keiko Masuda-Story
Psychologist, PsyD, QME
Verified Verified
Glendale, CA 91203  (Online Only)
Our offices provide clinical psychotherapy services for adults. We are currently working remotely/telephonically. Conditions addressed include all mood and behavioral related disorders. Clinical modalities include: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy; Cognitive Processing Therapy; Insight Oriented; Psychoanalysis; Supportive Therapy; Multi-Modal Therapy. Insurances we accept: TriWest, TriCare, CHAMPVA, MHN-HealthNet, AETNA, Cigna, Evernorth, Blue Shield, Medicare, Kaiser; Carelon; and L.A. Care.
Our offices provide clinical psychotherapy services for adults. We are currently working remotely/telephonically. Conditions addressed include all mood and behavioral related disorders. Clinical modalities include: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy; Cognitive Processing Therapy; Insight Oriented; Psychoanalysis; Supportive Therapy; Multi-Modal Therapy. Insurances we accept: TriWest, TriCare, CHAMPVA, MHN-HealthNet, AETNA, Cigna, Evernorth, Blue Shield, Medicare, Kaiser; Carelon; and L.A. Care.
(818) 814-6903 View (818) 814-6903
Photo of Rodrigo Dasilva, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Rodrigo Dasilva
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
West Hollywood, CA 90046  (Online Only)
I am currently seeing clients in New York, California and Florida State. I believe Psychotherapy is a collaborative venture that can help people lead a fulfilling life and maintain healthy relationships. In our work together my intention is to create a judgement-free space where I can understand your personal experience and nurture and support you in your journey towards authenticity and change. If you suffer with states of depression, anxiety, or loneliness, or you feel generally dissatisfied with aspects of your life, through our work together we can explore skills and tools that move you toward growth.
I am currently seeing clients in New York, California and Florida State. I believe Psychotherapy is a collaborative venture that can help people lead a fulfilling life and maintain healthy relationships. In our work together my intention is to create a judgement-free space where I can understand your personal experience and nurture and support you in your journey towards authenticity and change. If you suffer with states of depression, anxiety, or loneliness, or you feel generally dissatisfied with aspects of your life, through our work together we can explore skills and tools that move you toward growth.
(786) 746-7082 View (786) 746-7082

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.