Therapists in San Francisco, CA

Photo of Lindsay Kay Parkinson, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Lindsay Kay Parkinson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ATR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94110  (Online Only)
I am passionate and dedicated to creating a trusting relationship and safe space for the process of narrating your personal story. Over 10 years I've worked in community-based programs with both teens and adults. I especially enjoy working with young people ages 16 to 25 (Transitional Aged Youth) a population that’s often overlooked and underserved. Having personally struggled myself during that time, I know how to identify with that challenging life transition and sometimes overwhelming decisions of "What's next?" let alone the bigger question of "Who am I?".
I am passionate and dedicated to creating a trusting relationship and safe space for the process of narrating your personal story. Over 10 years I've worked in community-based programs with both teens and adults. I especially enjoy working with young people ages 16 to 25 (Transitional Aged Youth) a population that’s often overlooked and underserved. Having personally struggled myself during that time, I know how to identify with that challenging life transition and sometimes overwhelming decisions of "What's next?" let alone the bigger question of "Who am I?".
(916) 764-3974 View (916) 764-3974
Photo of Sara Fischer Sanford, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Sara Fischer Sanford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94110  (Online Only)
You don't have to do this alone. Deciding to start therapy takes courage and strength. Sometimes our minds can be so overwhelmed that it's hard to see a path forward. You may feel like you are going from one crisis to the next. So many of us don't even quite know what a better life looks like at the moment. I can help you figure out where to start and how to use therapy as a tool to improve your quality of life. Through telehealth, we can jump into therapy quickly, and you never need to leave the comfort of your couch. Let any anxiety or doubt about starting therapy go and allow yourself the time and space to feel better.
You don't have to do this alone. Deciding to start therapy takes courage and strength. Sometimes our minds can be so overwhelmed that it's hard to see a path forward. You may feel like you are going from one crisis to the next. So many of us don't even quite know what a better life looks like at the moment. I can help you figure out where to start and how to use therapy as a tool to improve your quality of life. Through telehealth, we can jump into therapy quickly, and you never need to leave the comfort of your couch. Let any anxiety or doubt about starting therapy go and allow yourself the time and space to feel better.
(415) 949-3073 View (415) 949-3073
Photo of Panayiotis Frangos, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Panayiotis Frangos
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94107
I am licensed from the Board of Behavioral Sciences as a Marriage Family Therapist.  I graduated from Notre Dame de Namur with a Master's in Science Clinical Psychology MFT.  I was born in Greece and moved to the United States as a child, and have been a California Bay Area native ever since.  Growing up in a Greek household, I am able to speak Greek fluently and I am proficient in Spanish.  In my spare time, I am also learning Mandarin Chinese as languages are a passion of mine.
I am licensed from the Board of Behavioral Sciences as a Marriage Family Therapist.  I graduated from Notre Dame de Namur with a Master's in Science Clinical Psychology MFT.  I was born in Greece and moved to the United States as a child, and have been a California Bay Area native ever since.  Growing up in a Greek household, I am able to speak Greek fluently and I am proficient in Spanish.  In my spare time, I am also learning Mandarin Chinese as languages are a passion of mine.
(650) 525-2494 View (650) 525-2494
Photo of Emily Treichler, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Emily Treichler
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115  (Online Only)
Do you feel overwhelmed and trapped by trauma, difficult feelings, and thoughts you can't shake? Are you looking for support for yourself or a family member experiencing symptoms of psychosis? Do you feel disempowered? It is my honor as a therapist to meet each client exactly where they are and use therapy as an opportunity for growth, validation, and empowerment. I enjoy collaborating with clients to understand their values, preferences, and goals, and identify an approach that research has found to be helpful for similar people. Ultimately, therapy should help light a path forward towards a life you enjoy and find meaningful.
Do you feel overwhelmed and trapped by trauma, difficult feelings, and thoughts you can't shake? Are you looking for support for yourself or a family member experiencing symptoms of psychosis? Do you feel disempowered? It is my honor as a therapist to meet each client exactly where they are and use therapy as an opportunity for growth, validation, and empowerment. I enjoy collaborating with clients to understand their values, preferences, and goals, and identify an approach that research has found to be helpful for similar people. Ultimately, therapy should help light a path forward towards a life you enjoy and find meaningful.
(619) 514-3136 View (619) 514-3136
Photo of Heather Gramme, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Heather Gramme
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94117
Conditions that I have a lot of experience working with are: depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, bipolar, schizophrenia, grief, suicidal ideation, anger management, and dual diagnosis.
Hello. My name is Heather Gramme. It is nice to meet you. I have been working as a licensed clinical social worker since 2014. My license number in CA is, LCSW86925. I also hold LCSW licensure in Florida and Idaho. I use a very eclectic approach as my therapeutic style to meet the very unique needs of each individual client that I have the privilege of working with. I have many years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families. I have worked with children as young as 8, and clients in their 80's.
Conditions that I have a lot of experience working with are: depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, bipolar, schizophrenia, grief, suicidal ideation, anger management, and dual diagnosis.
Hello. My name is Heather Gramme. It is nice to meet you. I have been working as a licensed clinical social worker since 2014. My license number in CA is, LCSW86925. I also hold LCSW licensure in Florida and Idaho. I use a very eclectic approach as my therapeutic style to meet the very unique needs of each individual client that I have the privilege of working with. I have many years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families. I have worked with children as young as 8, and clients in their 80's.
(562) 573-9174 View (562) 573-9174
Photo of Perynn D'Alba, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Perynn D'Alba
Psychologist
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94102  (Online Only)
I believe we are all capable of change, but sometimes knowing when to implement change and where can be overwhelming and daunting. Often we invalidate ourselves without meaning to and this can create an uncomfortable and less satisfying life. This may be because our environment is not fostering change or we feel backed into a corner. As a clinician I strive to be the person on the outside who can help you change what you want. Telling a stranger the details of your life can bring clarity that might otherwise be ignored. Some clients come in knowing exactly what they want out of sessions and sometimes clients need the blank space.
I believe we are all capable of change, but sometimes knowing when to implement change and where can be overwhelming and daunting. Often we invalidate ourselves without meaning to and this can create an uncomfortable and less satisfying life. This may be because our environment is not fostering change or we feel backed into a corner. As a clinician I strive to be the person on the outside who can help you change what you want. Telling a stranger the details of your life can bring clarity that might otherwise be ignored. Some clients come in knowing exactly what they want out of sessions and sometimes clients need the blank space.
(530) 625-7232 View (530) 625-7232
Photo of Matt McKeithan, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Matt McKeithan
Psychologist, PsyD, MA, LPC-A
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94121  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating those with various mental disorders and behavioral issues to include: ADHD, PTSD, Anxiety, and Personality Disorders. I utilize detailed Psychological Assessment, and empirically supported treatments such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Mindfulness. I am certified as a DBT practitioner and a life coach. Lastly, I integrate a holistic mindset into my practice, where emphasis is placed on gut/brain health, sleep quality, lifestyle, and diet.
I specialize in treating those with various mental disorders and behavioral issues to include: ADHD, PTSD, Anxiety, and Personality Disorders. I utilize detailed Psychological Assessment, and empirically supported treatments such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Mindfulness. I am certified as a DBT practitioner and a life coach. Lastly, I integrate a holistic mindset into my practice, where emphasis is placed on gut/brain health, sleep quality, lifestyle, and diet.
(628) 214-2794 View (628) 214-2794
Photo of Katrina Foster, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Katrina Foster
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94116  (Online Only)
What is it that you desire? Are you looking for greater self-awareness, more rewarding relationships, resolution of difficulties from your past? With gentle curiosity we can help you learn new ways to access your authentic strength, tenderness, resilience, and pleasure. Therapy is a compassionate, nonjudgemental space where we can deepen into trust and connection to explore what may be holding you back from having the life you want. I am committed to providing a safe, trauma-informed, sex-positive, body-positive, LGBTQ+ friendly, and social justice-oriented practice. I also offer Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP).
What is it that you desire? Are you looking for greater self-awareness, more rewarding relationships, resolution of difficulties from your past? With gentle curiosity we can help you learn new ways to access your authentic strength, tenderness, resilience, and pleasure. Therapy is a compassionate, nonjudgemental space where we can deepen into trust and connection to explore what may be holding you back from having the life you want. I am committed to providing a safe, trauma-informed, sex-positive, body-positive, LGBTQ+ friendly, and social justice-oriented practice. I also offer Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP).
(628) 227-5126 View (628) 227-5126
Photo of Thomas Browne, Ph. D., Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Thomas Browne, Ph. D.
Psychologist, Ph, D
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94108
My work embraces two levels. 1. Licensed clinical psychologist with a range of classical methods. 2. Board Certified Senior Fellow in Medical Neurofeedback and QEEG (not consumer level for amusement/recreation). Clients develop a more powerful sense of relaxed self-esteem and an effective understanding of how to manage life traumas and stress more effectively. Several publications in mental health and medical neurofeedback. "The Encyclopedia of Mental Health", "Neurofeedback First 50 Years". The combination of clinical therapy and medical neurofeedback can be powerful, healing, and transformative in its ability to change lives.
My work embraces two levels. 1. Licensed clinical psychologist with a range of classical methods. 2. Board Certified Senior Fellow in Medical Neurofeedback and QEEG (not consumer level for amusement/recreation). Clients develop a more powerful sense of relaxed self-esteem and an effective understanding of how to manage life traumas and stress more effectively. Several publications in mental health and medical neurofeedback. "The Encyclopedia of Mental Health", "Neurofeedback First 50 Years". The combination of clinical therapy and medical neurofeedback can be powerful, healing, and transformative in its ability to change lives.
(415) 401-0777 View (415) 401-0777
Photo of Art Therapy and EMDR, Stress, Trauma, and Anxiety, Art Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Art Therapy and EMDR, Stress, Trauma, and Anxiety
Art Therapist, MA, ATR, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94131
I create a safe holding space where people can deeply explore what is blocking them from enjoying their lives to the fullest. I focus on authentic connection and empathy to build trusting therapeudic relationships. I enjoy working with teens, young adults, and adults. If you are struggling to recover from DID, complex trauma, single traumas, low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, or bipolar disorder, I am here to help.
I create a safe holding space where people can deeply explore what is blocking them from enjoying their lives to the fullest. I focus on authentic connection and empathy to build trusting therapeudic relationships. I enjoy working with teens, young adults, and adults. If you are struggling to recover from DID, complex trauma, single traumas, low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, or bipolar disorder, I am here to help.
(415) 562-0416 View (415) 562-0416
Photo of Arielle Piastunovich, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Arielle Piastunovich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94107  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 20+ years of mental health experience. I work with children, adults, older adults couples, and families. I have a wealth of diverse experience which includes mood / anxiety disorders, substance disorders (chronic alcoholism and eating disorders), and providing couples and family treatment. I specialize in trauma and relationships. Healing is often a hard and painful process, but it also can be joyful and lead to a more fulfilling life and improved relationships. I would be honored to accompany you on your journey towards happiness, acceptance, greater intimacy, peace, and recovery.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 20+ years of mental health experience. I work with children, adults, older adults couples, and families. I have a wealth of diverse experience which includes mood / anxiety disorders, substance disorders (chronic alcoholism and eating disorders), and providing couples and family treatment. I specialize in trauma and relationships. Healing is often a hard and painful process, but it also can be joyful and lead to a more fulfilling life and improved relationships. I would be honored to accompany you on your journey towards happiness, acceptance, greater intimacy, peace, and recovery.
(650) 206-9870 View (650) 206-9870
Photo of Kindred Sparrow Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Kindred Sparrow Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94101
Hello, welcome to my practice. I offer mental health services in California and Washington via telehealth. I have been working with youth, adults, and families since 2010. Are you going through a difficult time in your life? Have you had experiences that are impacting your ability to thrive? Are you struggling with anxiety and depression? Is your child struggling in school or at home? I want to help you identify your strengths and weaknesses and identify more healthy coping skills and communication techniques. I am committed to supporting you and your family in your journey toward well-being and recovery.
Hello, welcome to my practice. I offer mental health services in California and Washington via telehealth. I have been working with youth, adults, and families since 2010. Are you going through a difficult time in your life? Have you had experiences that are impacting your ability to thrive? Are you struggling with anxiety and depression? Is your child struggling in school or at home? I want to help you identify your strengths and weaknesses and identify more healthy coping skills and communication techniques. I am committed to supporting you and your family in your journey toward well-being and recovery.
(530) 460-6282 View (530) 460-6282
Photo of Zena Vevaina, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Zena Vevaina
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94104  (Online Only)
Hello and a warm welcome! While I bring a diverse background to my role, my current focus involves pursuing certification in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT). My dedication lies in offering assistance to individuals and couples grappling with attachment issues within their present relationships. EFT centers around fostering transformative emotional experiences through the therapeutic relationship. I look forward to supporting you on your journey to emotional well-being. Additionally, I proudly serve as a Clinical Supervisor for associates on the journey to becoming licensed therapists.
Hello and a warm welcome! While I bring a diverse background to my role, my current focus involves pursuing certification in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT). My dedication lies in offering assistance to individuals and couples grappling with attachment issues within their present relationships. EFT centers around fostering transformative emotional experiences through the therapeutic relationship. I look forward to supporting you on your journey to emotional well-being. Additionally, I proudly serve as a Clinical Supervisor for associates on the journey to becoming licensed therapists.
(415) 843-6640 View (415) 843-6640
Photo of Elizabeth Finnerty, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Elizabeth Finnerty
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94101
I am a licensed clinical psychologist based in Ventura County, California. I work with adolescents and adult clients statewide via telehealth, as well as in-person in Westlake Village, and specialize in trauma/PTSD/complex trauma, suicidality, anxiety, emotion dysregulation, and interpersonal conflict. I am committed to tailoring treatment to the unique needs of each client. Life presents all of us with challenges that we are not meant to navigate alone. It is infinitely more meaningful when we can explore our inner worlds in the safe presence of another.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist based in Ventura County, California. I work with adolescents and adult clients statewide via telehealth, as well as in-person in Westlake Village, and specialize in trauma/PTSD/complex trauma, suicidality, anxiety, emotion dysregulation, and interpersonal conflict. I am committed to tailoring treatment to the unique needs of each client. Life presents all of us with challenges that we are not meant to navigate alone. It is infinitely more meaningful when we can explore our inner worlds in the safe presence of another.
(805) 243-2209 View (805) 243-2209
Photo of Isaac Ozobiani, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Isaac Ozobiani
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94124
Isaac Ozobiani is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California who has been practicing since 1988. He has a Ph.D., PsyD degree in Health Service Management and in Clinical Psychology from La Salle University and California Southern University respectively. Isaac collaborates with clients on how to get from where they are in their lives currently to where they want to be. He uses cognitive-behavioral, solution-focused, and motivational interviewing techniques to work with clients.
Isaac Ozobiani is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California who has been practicing since 1988. He has a Ph.D., PsyD degree in Health Service Management and in Clinical Psychology from La Salle University and California Southern University respectively. Isaac collaborates with clients on how to get from where they are in their lives currently to where they want to be. He uses cognitive-behavioral, solution-focused, and motivational interviewing techniques to work with clients.
(510) 256-7967 View (510) 256-7967
Photo of Ojuri Psychology Practices, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Ojuri Psychology Practices
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94158
As a licensed clinical psychologist, I'm qualified to care for individuals who may be facing life stressors, such as discrimination, gender identity issues, sexuality issues, loss of relationships, or life transitions. I also treat those who may be facing painful or severe psychiatric symptoms related to borderline personality traits, major depression, bipolar disorder, panic or post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). I provide clinical intervention through evidenced based psychotherapy practices, provide diagnoses counseling or second opinions.
As a licensed clinical psychologist, I'm qualified to care for individuals who may be facing life stressors, such as discrimination, gender identity issues, sexuality issues, loss of relationships, or life transitions. I also treat those who may be facing painful or severe psychiatric symptoms related to borderline personality traits, major depression, bipolar disorder, panic or post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). I provide clinical intervention through evidenced based psychotherapy practices, provide diagnoses counseling or second opinions.
(925) 275-5746 View (925) 275-5746
Photo of Brie Pierquet, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Brie Pierquet
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR-T
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94123
The average person will experience 3-5 traumatic events in their life. The average first responder will experience 188 in their career. We live in a society that has normalized “suck it up” as a coping strategy and that doesn’t work. Are you a first responder (law enforcement , fire, EMS, dispatch)? Is the job itself and/or organizational stress feeling heavier than it once did? Are you noticing changes in yourself that you don’t understand or need help with? Post-traumatic stress injuries are extremely common in first responders and they are treatable. Let’s talk.
The average person will experience 3-5 traumatic events in their life. The average first responder will experience 188 in their career. We live in a society that has normalized “suck it up” as a coping strategy and that doesn’t work. Are you a first responder (law enforcement , fire, EMS, dispatch)? Is the job itself and/or organizational stress feeling heavier than it once did? Are you noticing changes in yourself that you don’t understand or need help with? Post-traumatic stress injuries are extremely common in first responders and they are treatable. Let’s talk.
(415) 792-1818 View (415) 792-1818
Photo of Marty Hosier, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Marty Hosier
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MPhil, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94101  (Online Only)
Hey! I'm Marty, and I'm thrilled to welcome you to my profile. If you're tired of your therapists just staring at you while you pour your heart out for an hour and nothing changes, and you're ready for a fun and transformative experience with a queer, neurodivergent friendly therapist to help you get through it. Look no further, Marty is here. I've done all the therapies, I know how exhausting it can be just telling your story over and over to therapists and nothing changes. I'm here to tell you the cold, hard truth and help you make the changes you need to be obsessed with your life.
Hey! I'm Marty, and I'm thrilled to welcome you to my profile. If you're tired of your therapists just staring at you while you pour your heart out for an hour and nothing changes, and you're ready for a fun and transformative experience with a queer, neurodivergent friendly therapist to help you get through it. Look no further, Marty is here. I've done all the therapies, I know how exhausting it can be just telling your story over and over to therapists and nothing changes. I'm here to tell you the cold, hard truth and help you make the changes you need to be obsessed with your life.
(559) 315-3824 View (559) 315-3824
Photo of Kevin Graves, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Kevin Graves
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94110
“Bridging is the work of opening the gate to the stranger, within and without.” – Gloria E. Anzaldúa. You’re at an inflection point. The ground has shifted; you find yourself on rocky terrain. The trail’s end is hazy, but you catch a glimpse: the outline of a hopeful future, somehow. Let us nurture those neglected pieces of yourself too oft ignored. With sincerity, compassion, and levity, I offer steady company on your voyage. You’ll discover bridges to yourself, your loved ones, and the goals that matter to you. The discourse shall be rich; the reflection, deep; the change, meaningful. You needn’t travel alone.
“Bridging is the work of opening the gate to the stranger, within and without.” – Gloria E. Anzaldúa. You’re at an inflection point. The ground has shifted; you find yourself on rocky terrain. The trail’s end is hazy, but you catch a glimpse: the outline of a hopeful future, somehow. Let us nurture those neglected pieces of yourself too oft ignored. With sincerity, compassion, and levity, I offer steady company on your voyage. You’ll discover bridges to yourself, your loved ones, and the goals that matter to you. The discourse shall be rich; the reflection, deep; the change, meaningful. You needn’t travel alone.
(310) 742-0939 View (310) 742-0939
Photo of Zoi Dorit Eliou, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Zoi Dorit Eliou
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94131  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
My practice is currently closed to new patients. If you are a patient I have previously seen and in need of a consultation please contact me so I can assist you on how to proceed. Presently I am focused on peer consultation and public service. I mainly worked on providing services to adult patients with moderate to severe psychopathology, primarily Depressive disorders, Bipolar spectrum disorders, Anxiety disorders, OCD, PTSD and Personality disorders. In addition, I treated people with complex medical problems, managing autoimmune disorders, cancer, diabetes and high risk pregnancies co-morbid with mood disorders.
My practice is currently closed to new patients. If you are a patient I have previously seen and in need of a consultation please contact me so I can assist you on how to proceed. Presently I am focused on peer consultation and public service. I mainly worked on providing services to adult patients with moderate to severe psychopathology, primarily Depressive disorders, Bipolar spectrum disorders, Anxiety disorders, OCD, PTSD and Personality disorders. In addition, I treated people with complex medical problems, managing autoimmune disorders, cancer, diabetes and high risk pregnancies co-morbid with mood disorders.
(650) 918-4545 View (650) 918-4545

See more therapy options for San Francisco

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.