Therapists in Westminster, MD
Kathleen A Mahony
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Westminster, MD 21157 (Online Only)
I am a board certified LCPC licensed in MD, PA, VA, NY, and DE with experience in both non-profit outpatient mental health clinics and private practice serving individuals and families. My primary client focus is currently high school to adult. I look forward to meeting and getting to know you and helping you to reach your goals. Please follow this link, select Westminster as your requested location, my name as preferred provider to request a new appointment:https://www.cedarridgecounseling.com/request-appointment
I am a board certified LCPC licensed in MD, PA, VA, NY, and DE with experience in both non-profit outpatient mental health clinics and private practice serving individuals and families. My primary client focus is currently high school to adult. I look forward to meeting and getting to know you and helping you to reach your goals. Please follow this link, select Westminster as your requested location, my name as preferred provider to request a new appointment:https://www.cedarridgecounseling.com/request-appointment
New Path Counseling Center LLC
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCADC, CCDC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westminster, MD 21157
We treat Adolescents and Adults in the area of Addiction, Substance Abuse, Dual-Diagnosis, Anxiety, Depression, Stress, Trauma (EMDR), and Relationship difficulties. We offer a straightforward, friendly, effective approach to assist you in accomplishing your goals for counseling. We work with individuals, couples and families.
We treat Adolescents and Adults in the area of Addiction, Substance Abuse, Dual-Diagnosis, Anxiety, Depression, Stress, Trauma (EMDR), and Relationship difficulties. We offer a straightforward, friendly, effective approach to assist you in accomplishing your goals for counseling. We work with individuals, couples and families.
The Counseling Renaissance
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westminster, MD 21157
We have Immediate Openings! Christlyn McCaskill, ATR-BC, LCPAT, LCPC, Sheena Anthony, LGPC, and Rachel Scholnick, LMSW are available to work with teens and adults struggling with mood, anxiety, relationship issues, self-esteem, and more, both in-person and virtually. We offer clients a safe space to discover, explore, and process. Christlyn has special skills with trauma work and art therapy. Sheena uses Dialectical-Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy. Rachel uses a strengths-based, collaborative approach, and especially works with grief, and women's issues.
We have Immediate Openings! Christlyn McCaskill, ATR-BC, LCPAT, LCPC, Sheena Anthony, LGPC, and Rachel Scholnick, LMSW are available to work with teens and adults struggling with mood, anxiety, relationship issues, self-esteem, and more, both in-person and virtually. We offer clients a safe space to discover, explore, and process. Christlyn has special skills with trauma work and art therapy. Sheena uses Dialectical-Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy. Rachel uses a strengths-based, collaborative approach, and especially works with grief, and women's issues.
More Therapists Nearby
Meghan Bower
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, CAC-AD, RPS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manchester, MD 21102
Meghan has extensive experience working in the field of mental health and substance use treatment. Meghan has worked with a variety of issues including: addiction, anxiety, depression, divorce, infidelity, chronic illness, grief, trauma, low self- esteem, life coaching, parenting, and stress. Meghan also works with a nurse practitioner to assist clients with medication management, along with several other therapists in her practice. Meghan understands the importance of utilizing a team approach along with resources as part of the therapeutic process and is very familiar with a variety of support services in the area.
Meghan has extensive experience working in the field of mental health and substance use treatment. Meghan has worked with a variety of issues including: addiction, anxiety, depression, divorce, infidelity, chronic illness, grief, trauma, low self- esteem, life coaching, parenting, and stress. Meghan also works with a nurse practitioner to assist clients with medication management, along with several other therapists in her practice. Meghan understands the importance of utilizing a team approach along with resources as part of the therapeutic process and is very familiar with a variety of support services in the area.
Online Therapists
Keesha Vines
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Waldorf, MD 20603 (Online Only)
Specialty areas include addictive behaviors and substance use issues, depression, bipolar disorder, general mood disorders post traumatic stress disorder, anger and stress management, paranoid personality disorder, and attention deficit hyperactive disorder.
Have Faith in Your Own Healing...FHC was founded on the belief that true healing begins from within and should focus on you as a whole: mind, body and spirit. We want you to educate and support you while you navigate through life’s obstacles, as well as empower and encourage healthy patterns of coping. We want you to gain a better understanding of what you want out of life and how to achieve it. We are passionate about working with everyone, especially women and veterans. Change your mind and perspective to change your outlook on your life.
Specialty areas include addictive behaviors and substance use issues, depression, bipolar disorder, general mood disorders post traumatic stress disorder, anger and stress management, paranoid personality disorder, and attention deficit hyperactive disorder.
Have Faith in Your Own Healing...FHC was founded on the belief that true healing begins from within and should focus on you as a whole: mind, body and spirit. We want you to educate and support you while you navigate through life’s obstacles, as well as empower and encourage healthy patterns of coping. We want you to gain a better understanding of what you want out of life and how to achieve it. We are passionate about working with everyone, especially women and veterans. Change your mind and perspective to change your outlook on your life.
Diamond A Keyes
Counselor, MA, LGPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Owings Mills, MD 21117
My specializations include treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, self-esteem, life transitions, self-efficacy, crisis management, and familial conflicts.
The pursuit of healing is about bringing forward a change in you. In my 9 years of experience, It’s my belief that within every individual lies the potential for positive shifts. As a new therapist, my approach is centered on creating a safe and compassionate space where your voice can flourish, you are receptive to challenging circumstances, and your emotions find validation. Every person has their own story, and I am committed to tailoring our sessions to your needs. With a foundation in evidence-based approaches, I combine compassion and practical techniques to help you navigate challenges and discover your inner resilience.
My specializations include treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, self-esteem, life transitions, self-efficacy, crisis management, and familial conflicts.
The pursuit of healing is about bringing forward a change in you. In my 9 years of experience, It’s my belief that within every individual lies the potential for positive shifts. As a new therapist, my approach is centered on creating a safe and compassionate space where your voice can flourish, you are receptive to challenging circumstances, and your emotions find validation. Every person has their own story, and I am committed to tailoring our sessions to your needs. With a foundation in evidence-based approaches, I combine compassion and practical techniques to help you navigate challenges and discover your inner resilience.
Lilian Odera
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21209 (Online Only)
Odera works therapeutically to address psychological disorders such as depression, anxiety disorders, self-harm/suicidal behaviors, personality disorders, conduct and mood disorders, and bipolar disorder.
Dr. Odera is a licensed clinical psychologist who earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Morgan State University in Baltimore, Maryland. She went on to earn her Master of Science degree and doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan. Dr. Odera's interests include working with adolescents and adult populations, with a special interest in racial and ethnic minorities, immigrants, and marginalized groups.
Odera works therapeutically to address psychological disorders such as depression, anxiety disorders, self-harm/suicidal behaviors, personality disorders, conduct and mood disorders, and bipolar disorder.
Dr. Odera is a licensed clinical psychologist who earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Morgan State University in Baltimore, Maryland. She went on to earn her Master of Science degree and doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan. Dr. Odera's interests include working with adolescents and adult populations, with a special interest in racial and ethnic minorities, immigrants, and marginalized groups.
John Lawrence Potash
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Catonsville, MD 21228
I've been working as a therapist for people suffering from Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, bereavement, trauma issues, and addictions for over 30 years. I've also done much couples counseling and family counseling. In 2015 I obtained 50 hours training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), now considered the gold standard for treating people with life traumas as well as anxieties (Certified 2022). I've seen great results in faster time on these & other issues since. I look forward to helping you identify the changes you'd like to make and helping you enhance your strengths for achieving your goals.
I've been working as a therapist for people suffering from Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, bereavement, trauma issues, and addictions for over 30 years. I've also done much couples counseling and family counseling. In 2015 I obtained 50 hours training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), now considered the gold standard for treating people with life traumas as well as anxieties (Certified 2022). I've seen great results in faster time on these & other issues since. I look forward to helping you identify the changes you'd like to make and helping you enhance your strengths for achieving your goals.
Joy Teitelbaum Lcsw-C
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, Joy
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Severna Park, MD 21146 (Online Only)
My typical client has a trauma history and may be anxious, bipolar or depressed. You may have a hard time in relationships. Family members may be stressing you out. You may have a hard time getting out of bed and wonder why others have what you want which is a decent job, a serious relationship w someone who has your back and treasures you. You want family and friends who adore you.. Sometimes you have all this and more and you’re still unhappy. I think most people want to be seen, heard and understood. Understudy of Dr. Josh Coleman, I also work in adult child estrangement, If any of this resonates, I think I can help.
My typical client has a trauma history and may be anxious, bipolar or depressed. You may have a hard time in relationships. Family members may be stressing you out. You may have a hard time getting out of bed and wonder why others have what you want which is a decent job, a serious relationship w someone who has your back and treasures you. You want family and friends who adore you.. Sometimes you have all this and more and you’re still unhappy. I think most people want to be seen, heard and understood. Understudy of Dr. Josh Coleman, I also work in adult child estrangement, If any of this resonates, I think I can help.
Annette Layton-Lewis
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Towson, MD 21204 (Online Only)
I have special interest and training for clients with bipolar disorder, depressive disorder, anxiety disorder, adjustment disorder, spiritual conflict, grief struggle, relationship issues and job stress.
Do you feel like you are stuck on a never ending road marked by depression, anxiety, fear, anger or confusion? If so, I can help you reach your path to emotional wellness. My 34 years of experience as a Psychotherapist and 19 years of experience as a Pastoral Counselor have equipped me to assist clients with developing coping mechanisms for emotional stability. I specialize in emergency assessments, crisis intervention, suicide risk evaluations and program development. My work has taken place in a government facility, correctional and educational institutions, medical hospitals and community outpatient programs.
I have special interest and training for clients with bipolar disorder, depressive disorder, anxiety disorder, adjustment disorder, spiritual conflict, grief struggle, relationship issues and job stress.
Do you feel like you are stuck on a never ending road marked by depression, anxiety, fear, anger or confusion? If so, I can help you reach your path to emotional wellness. My 34 years of experience as a Psychotherapist and 19 years of experience as a Pastoral Counselor have equipped me to assist clients with developing coping mechanisms for emotional stability. I specialize in emergency assessments, crisis intervention, suicide risk evaluations and program development. My work has taken place in a government facility, correctional and educational institutions, medical hospitals and community outpatient programs.
Amberleigh Yoegel
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Nottingham, MD 21236 (Online Only)
Finding quality mental health care for yourself or a loved one may feel like a daunting task. As a therapist at Aspire, I am here to ensure you that you will be supported every step of the way. From your evaluation through ongoing therapy and/or medication appointments, it is our goal to provide compassionate care and help you improve the quality of your life by giving you the tools you need to succeed. Our staff has expertise working with children/adults and has proven success treating ADHD, anxiety, bipolar, depression, mood issues, and trauma. Recognize that you are taking the first step towards creating positive change.
Finding quality mental health care for yourself or a loved one may feel like a daunting task. As a therapist at Aspire, I am here to ensure you that you will be supported every step of the way. From your evaluation through ongoing therapy and/or medication appointments, it is our goal to provide compassionate care and help you improve the quality of your life by giving you the tools you need to succeed. Our staff has expertise working with children/adults and has proven success treating ADHD, anxiety, bipolar, depression, mood issues, and trauma. Recognize that you are taking the first step towards creating positive change.
Kim Witkowski
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, PhD, MA, MEd, LCPC, LPC
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21201 (Online Only)
Dr. Kim Witkowski, Ph.D. is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor providing services for clients in Maryland ,South Carolina and New Jersey. With 30 years of clinical experience. Dr. Witkowski is working with clients to resolve; Trauma, Anxiety and Depression. Additionally specialties include Bipolar Disorders, PTSD, Perfectionism ,OCD and Work-Life Balance. Relationship counseling is offered to include: Effective Communication for Marriage and long- term partnerships, ending codependency and ACOA issues, trauma bonding , learning the characteristics of healthy relationships and attachment styles.
Dr. Kim Witkowski, Ph.D. is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor providing services for clients in Maryland ,South Carolina and New Jersey. With 30 years of clinical experience. Dr. Witkowski is working with clients to resolve; Trauma, Anxiety and Depression. Additionally specialties include Bipolar Disorders, PTSD, Perfectionism ,OCD and Work-Life Balance. Relationship counseling is offered to include: Effective Communication for Marriage and long- term partnerships, ending codependency and ACOA issues, trauma bonding , learning the characteristics of healthy relationships and attachment styles.
Developing Wellness Solutions, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Nottingham, MD 21236 (Online Only)
We specialize in short term and long term support, life coaching, short term solution focused treatment, managing mood disorders (depression, Bipolar disorder), anxiety disorders, behavioral disorders, helping to manage family, relationship, work, life stressors.
Developing Wellness Solutions is a mental health practice serving adults, adolescents, families, and couples. We provide short term and long term support to individuals struggling to manage life, work, relationship stressors and/or manage their mental health concerns. The cost of your session may be free as we are connected to over 100 companies that grant free sessions to their employees. We also take most insurances. Email or call us today!
We specialize in short term and long term support, life coaching, short term solution focused treatment, managing mood disorders (depression, Bipolar disorder), anxiety disorders, behavioral disorders, helping to manage family, relationship, work, life stressors.
Developing Wellness Solutions is a mental health practice serving adults, adolescents, families, and couples. We provide short term and long term support to individuals struggling to manage life, work, relationship stressors and/or manage their mental health concerns. The cost of your session may be free as we are connected to over 100 companies that grant free sessions to their employees. We also take most insurances. Email or call us today!
Bernadette Pruitt
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Towson, MD 21286
couples experiencing relational discord, identity issues, anxiety, adjustment disorders, addictions, ADHD, anger management issues, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and self-esteem issues.
Bernadette Pruitt, LCPC, provides an empathetic and liberating environment to facilitate growth. She believes that her attentive and open approach is pivotal in developing a genuine connection in therapy. Bernadette creates an open space for identifying concerns, setting and evaluating goals, and discovering solutions. A few of Bernadette’s goals are to assist clients in gaining a deeper understanding of themselves, resolving relational discord, accepting difficult changes, and navigating the world with a healthier outlook. Bernadette is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with a Masters of Education in Counseling Psychology
couples experiencing relational discord, identity issues, anxiety, adjustment disorders, addictions, ADHD, anger management issues, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and self-esteem issues.
Bernadette Pruitt, LCPC, provides an empathetic and liberating environment to facilitate growth. She believes that her attentive and open approach is pivotal in developing a genuine connection in therapy. Bernadette creates an open space for identifying concerns, setting and evaluating goals, and discovering solutions. A few of Bernadette’s goals are to assist clients in gaining a deeper understanding of themselves, resolving relational discord, accepting difficult changes, and navigating the world with a healthier outlook. Bernadette is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with a Masters of Education in Counseling Psychology
Lisa Muscato
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, PC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bel Air, MD 21015 (Online Only)
I treat patients 18 years+ and I have experience working with a range of concerns, including but not limited to: Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, and Substance Use.
Therapy is an opportunity to sort through the puzzle pieces of oneself, and gain insight about how it all fits together. The beginning stages of therapy is a time to take each piece of your life story puzzle out of the box and share it with me. Some of those pieces will be clearly defined, or there might even be sections you don’t need much help from me on. Other parts will require some examination, analysis, and exploration. My role is to witness these pieces, these parts of your story, and work together on assembling your life puzzle. I have a casual, personable style. I strive to create a create a warm and supportive environment.
I treat patients 18 years+ and I have experience working with a range of concerns, including but not limited to: Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, and Substance Use.
Therapy is an opportunity to sort through the puzzle pieces of oneself, and gain insight about how it all fits together. The beginning stages of therapy is a time to take each piece of your life story puzzle out of the box and share it with me. Some of those pieces will be clearly defined, or there might even be sections you don’t need much help from me on. Other parts will require some examination, analysis, and exploration. My role is to witness these pieces, these parts of your story, and work together on assembling your life puzzle. I have a casual, personable style. I strive to create a create a warm and supportive environment.
Kathryn Stetler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Towson, MD 21204
Some examples are as follows: depression, anxiety, bipolar, eating disorders, grief and loss, trauma, pregnancy/infant loss, self -esteem, social learning, substance abuse, family issues, parenting, ADHD, Autism, and neurodivergent parenting.
I am glad you are here and taking this first step towards the goals you have for yourself. I believe that creating a safe, supportive, open environment can allow my clients the opportunity to move toward healing. I incorporate body work and mindfulness as methods for healing for growth. We all have parts of us that keep us stuck in seasons of life and it is my honor to walk with you to process and examine new strategies to decrease negative symptoms and increase wholeness and health. We can develop patterns in our lives, some learned, some given, and pausing to examine them and develop new strategies is vital to growth and change.
Some examples are as follows: depression, anxiety, bipolar, eating disorders, grief and loss, trauma, pregnancy/infant loss, self -esteem, social learning, substance abuse, family issues, parenting, ADHD, Autism, and neurodivergent parenting.
I am glad you are here and taking this first step towards the goals you have for yourself. I believe that creating a safe, supportive, open environment can allow my clients the opportunity to move toward healing. I incorporate body work and mindfulness as methods for healing for growth. We all have parts of us that keep us stuck in seasons of life and it is my honor to walk with you to process and examine new strategies to decrease negative symptoms and increase wholeness and health. We can develop patterns in our lives, some learned, some given, and pausing to examine them and develop new strategies is vital to growth and change.
Nathaniel A Sawyer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Montgomery Village, MD 20886
I also specialize in treating mood disorders, such as Depression and Bipolar, as well as substance abuse issues in adolescents and adults.
I have a lot of experience with both adults and children who have mental health, behavioral problems, and substance abuse issues. I use an ecclectic approach and tailor the therapy style to the individual patient.
I also specialize in treating mood disorders, such as Depression and Bipolar, as well as substance abuse issues in adolescents and adults.
I have a lot of experience with both adults and children who have mental health, behavioral problems, and substance abuse issues. I use an ecclectic approach and tailor the therapy style to the individual patient.
Kyle Timothy Lindner
LPC Intern
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Owings Mills, MD 21117
I'm interested in treating depression, bipolar disorder, and anxiety.
If you're wondering how your mental health could improve, seeking help could be right for you. Whether you've been diagnosed, are seeking diagnosis, are just having a hard time, or need help attaining the mental health you desire, beginning your search is a great first step. With a history in case management and an education in clinical treatment, I can assist you in this journey. I appreciate your consideration to include me in this journey, and will always give my all to serve you the best I can.
I'm interested in treating depression, bipolar disorder, and anxiety.
If you're wondering how your mental health could improve, seeking help could be right for you. Whether you've been diagnosed, are seeking diagnosis, are just having a hard time, or need help attaining the mental health you desire, beginning your search is a great first step. With a history in case management and an education in clinical treatment, I can assist you in this journey. I appreciate your consideration to include me in this journey, and will always give my all to serve you the best I can.
Jonathan E Drumgoole
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, PAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bel Air, MD 21014
Life throws a lot at us every day. Over time stressors build up, especially in our busy lives. Maybe you are having relationship problems with your spouse or partner and you don't know what to do. Maybe your teenager is doing poorly in school, acting out, or even using drugs. Perhaps you are struggling with depression, anxiety or your spirituality. Maybe you need the healthy integration from your psychedelic work, to address your mental health and personal growth. Life can be overwhelming. Whatever the problem- relief is in your reach. I want to help you work towards reclaiming your life, your family, and a healthy future.
Life throws a lot at us every day. Over time stressors build up, especially in our busy lives. Maybe you are having relationship problems with your spouse or partner and you don't know what to do. Maybe your teenager is doing poorly in school, acting out, or even using drugs. Perhaps you are struggling with depression, anxiety or your spirituality. Maybe you need the healthy integration from your psychedelic work, to address your mental health and personal growth. Life can be overwhelming. Whatever the problem- relief is in your reach. I want to help you work towards reclaiming your life, your family, and a healthy future.
Stanley I Nwogwugwu
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, PhD, LCPC, LCADC, NCC, ACS
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21201
Dr. Stanley Nwogwugwu, LCPC, is a board approved supervisor in Maryland, with over 14 years as a psychotherapist.I am a client centered therapist which means that the client is leading the process of change and is the expert on what is going on in their life. My role as the therapist is to provided the process to effect the change. This process I believe occurs most frequently in the context of a supportive, trusting relationship, and I am skilled at building rapport with people in tough situations.
Dr. Stanley Nwogwugwu, LCPC, is a board approved supervisor in Maryland, with over 14 years as a psychotherapist.I am a client centered therapist which means that the client is leading the process of change and is the expert on what is going on in their life. My role as the therapist is to provided the process to effect the change. This process I believe occurs most frequently in the context of a supportive, trusting relationship, and I am skilled at building rapport with people in tough situations.
See more therapy options for Westminster
Nearby Bipolar Disorder Therapists Searches for Westminster
- Eldersburg
- Finksburg
- Garrison
- Hampstead
- Manchester
- Mount Airy
- Owings Mills
- Reisterstown
- Sparks Glencoe
- Sykesville
- Taneytown
- Walkersville
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.