Photo of Village Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Anna, TX
Village Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, LCDC, CEDS-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anna, TX 75409
Living life takes a village; we consider it a privilege to be part of yours! At Village Counseling we aim to provide support across the lifespan, from kids to adults and couples to families. Our therapists are equipped to help you explore the patterns and hangups in your life that are leading you down well-traveled roads, understand the underlying contributors to your feelings of sadness or anxiety, and make changes to improve your life. We take a person-centered approach which means, we work together to create treatment goals and make meaningful progress using evidence-based therapeutic methods!
Living life takes a village; we consider it a privilege to be part of yours! At Village Counseling we aim to provide support across the lifespan, from kids to adults and couples to families. Our therapists are equipped to help you explore the patterns and hangups in your life that are leading you down well-traveled roads, understand the underlying contributors to your feelings of sadness or anxiety, and make changes to improve your life. We take a person-centered approach which means, we work together to create treatment goals and make meaningful progress using evidence-based therapeutic methods!
(469) 607-0198 View (469) 607-0198
Photo of Laura Auldridge, LPC, CCTP, EMDR-Trained, Licensed Professional Counselor in Anna, TX
Laura Auldridge, LPC, CCTP, EMDR-Trained
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Anna, TX 75409
First off, you are more than enough! What you are experiencing is tough, but so are you! Now that, that’s been said here’s a tidbit about who I am. My name is Laura Auldridge and I am currently accepting new clients in my downtown, Mckinney Town Square office! I have a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the K-State, and a master’s degree in counseling from Dallas Theological Seminary. If you are seeking therapy for anxiety, depression, trauma, eating disorders, religious trauma, intimacy/relationship issues, LGBTQIA+ community, personality/mood disorders or need help for your teen/kiddo I am your girl!
First off, you are more than enough! What you are experiencing is tough, but so are you! Now that, that’s been said here’s a tidbit about who I am. My name is Laura Auldridge and I am currently accepting new clients in my downtown, Mckinney Town Square office! I have a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the K-State, and a master’s degree in counseling from Dallas Theological Seminary. If you are seeking therapy for anxiety, depression, trauma, eating disorders, religious trauma, intimacy/relationship issues, LGBTQIA+ community, personality/mood disorders or need help for your teen/kiddo I am your girl!
(469) 840-4253 View (469) 840-4253
Photo of Counseling Impact, Licensed Professional Counselor in Anna, TX
Counseling Impact
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Anna, TX 75409
Are you confused about your life? Do you struggle to sort out your emotions? Does trauma have you spiraling out of control? Is grief so overwhelming that you are not sure what to do? Have you tried to create healthy relationships only to find yourself hurt and disappointed? Do you feel nervous, fear judgement or struggle discussing the challenges you are experiencing in your life? We all want to live peaceful, happy, stable lives surrounded by people who love and value us! The life you desire is possible!
Are you confused about your life? Do you struggle to sort out your emotions? Does trauma have you spiraling out of control? Is grief so overwhelming that you are not sure what to do? Have you tried to create healthy relationships only to find yourself hurt and disappointed? Do you feel nervous, fear judgement or struggle discussing the challenges you are experiencing in your life? We all want to live peaceful, happy, stable lives surrounded by people who love and value us! The life you desire is possible!
(903) 294-3019 View (903) 294-3019

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Krystal Wurm, Licensed Professional Counselor in Anna, TX
Krystal Wurm
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, PhD-C
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75071
I identify as a cis female identifying as non-binary that prefers the pronouns she/they born in the United States. I approach therapy as a partnership with my clients in which you are the ultimate decision-maker and I work with you to clear away obstacles and identify opportunities. My clients have successfully overcome or depression, anxiety, OCD, trauma, marital stress, parent-child difficulties, domestic violence, substance abuse, bipolar disorder, and anger issues. My specialties include working with the lgbtqia2s+ community and working with teens!
I identify as a cis female identifying as non-binary that prefers the pronouns she/they born in the United States. I approach therapy as a partnership with my clients in which you are the ultimate decision-maker and I work with you to clear away obstacles and identify opportunities. My clients have successfully overcome or depression, anxiety, OCD, trauma, marital stress, parent-child difficulties, domestic violence, substance abuse, bipolar disorder, and anger issues. My specialties include working with the lgbtqia2s+ community and working with teens!
(469) 551-8346 View (469) 551-8346
Photo of Elen Redford, Licensed Professional Counselor in Anna, TX
Elen Redford
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCDC, EMDR TR
Verified Verified
Melissa, TX 75454
Accepting online appointments- EMDR Trained - I believe in keeping an open and honest environment when working together to identify the best course of action and coping skills to help you achieve your goals. I like using different approaches and tools to help you improve and create boundaries in order to improve quality of life and reduce symptoms of depression or anxiety you might be struggling with. I have enjoyed working with different levels of care in my career, and have been fortunate to help individuals reduce and manage depression, anxiety, as well as work towards sobriety.
Accepting online appointments- EMDR Trained - I believe in keeping an open and honest environment when working together to identify the best course of action and coping skills to help you achieve your goals. I like using different approaches and tools to help you improve and create boundaries in order to improve quality of life and reduce symptoms of depression or anxiety you might be struggling with. I have enjoyed working with different levels of care in my career, and have been fortunate to help individuals reduce and manage depression, anxiety, as well as work towards sobriety.
(972) 764-8902 View (972) 764-8902
Photo of Kim Carson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Anna, TX
Kim Carson
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MEd, LPC, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Van Alstyne, TX 75495
My therapeutic philosophy involves utilizing a holistic approach incorporating Gestalt and Adlerian therapies. As a Licensed Professional Counselor who specializes in athletes, children, adolescents, and young adults, I frequently work with clients experiencing issues related to poor sport or school performance, life changes during adolescence, life transitioning from college to career, parenting issues, sibling relationships, and divorce family transitioning. Topical issues may include low self-esteem , ADHD, transitioning from athletic identity, peer relationships, anger management, self-mutilation, eating disorders, and self-empowerment. A fundamental element in my approach is establishing the therapeutic relationship through rapport and building trust between the client and the therapist.
My therapeutic philosophy involves utilizing a holistic approach incorporating Gestalt and Adlerian therapies. As a Licensed Professional Counselor who specializes in athletes, children, adolescents, and young adults, I frequently work with clients experiencing issues related to poor sport or school performance, life changes during adolescence, life transitioning from college to career, parenting issues, sibling relationships, and divorce family transitioning. Topical issues may include low self-esteem , ADHD, transitioning from athletic identity, peer relationships, anger management, self-mutilation, eating disorders, and self-empowerment. A fundamental element in my approach is establishing the therapeutic relationship through rapport and building trust between the client and the therapist.
(972) 347-4096 View (972) 347-4096
Photo of Connections Wellness Group, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Anna, TX
Connections Wellness Group
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LPC, LMFT, PhD, MD
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75071
We are a GROUP practice of psychiatrists and counselors with the goal of being (1) easily accessible, (2) affordable, and (3) profoundly competent. Our psychiatrists and therapists are accepting new clients and we can typically provide new patient appointments in a matter of hours, not weeks or months. Our team is made up of Harvard students, college professors, international speakers, and advanced trained fully licensed practitioners. We offer a profoundly talented team with over 150+ years of combined experience, without losing a single ounce of individualized compassion, care, and genuine love for what we do every day.
We are a GROUP practice of psychiatrists and counselors with the goal of being (1) easily accessible, (2) affordable, and (3) profoundly competent. Our psychiatrists and therapists are accepting new clients and we can typically provide new patient appointments in a matter of hours, not weeks or months. Our team is made up of Harvard students, college professors, international speakers, and advanced trained fully licensed practitioners. We offer a profoundly talented team with over 150+ years of combined experience, without losing a single ounce of individualized compassion, care, and genuine love for what we do every day.
(940) 220-3884 View (940) 220-3884
Photo of Dr. Lucy F. Underwood, Licensed Professional Counselor in Anna, TX
Dr. Lucy F. Underwood
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, NCC, ACS, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75071
Learning to manage life can be a challenge. When complicated by life transitions, performance pressures, chronic health conditions, mental health diagnoses, or a host of other unforeseen obstacles, it is important to seek guidance. I have shared this journey with individuals & families for over 28 years. My clinical training, the use of research supported treatments, such as EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), & Sports Counseling have allowed me to successfully work with individuals of all ages (children, teens, adults, & geriatrics), athletes, & business professionals who are confronted with a variety of concerns.
Learning to manage life can be a challenge. When complicated by life transitions, performance pressures, chronic health conditions, mental health diagnoses, or a host of other unforeseen obstacles, it is important to seek guidance. I have shared this journey with individuals & families for over 28 years. My clinical training, the use of research supported treatments, such as EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), & Sports Counseling have allowed me to successfully work with individuals of all ages (children, teens, adults, & geriatrics), athletes, & business professionals who are confronted with a variety of concerns.
(469) 208-8843 View (469) 208-8843
Photo of Holly Lockett, Licensed Professional Counselor in Anna, TX
Holly Lockett
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75071
My goal is to make your therapeutic experience as fulfilling as possible. I use a solutions focused/cognitive behavioral approach to therapy that helps people reach their goals as efficiently as possible. I work with a large variety of people by providing individual counseling, family counseling and activity therapy, filial therapy, grief resolution, teen counseling, and group therapy.
My goal is to make your therapeutic experience as fulfilling as possible. I use a solutions focused/cognitive behavioral approach to therapy that helps people reach their goals as efficiently as possible. I work with a large variety of people by providing individual counseling, family counseling and activity therapy, filial therapy, grief resolution, teen counseling, and group therapy.
(214) 960-2506 View (214) 960-2506
Photo of Sabrina Denise Henderson, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Anna, TX
Sabrina Denise Henderson
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, PhD(c), LPC-A, NCC
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75069
Waitlist for new clients
Mental illness lives. Anxiety lives. OCD lives. Addiction lives. Depression lives. Imagine millions of people around the universe waking up with the same dark, aching places you promised you’d never talk about. I’ve noticed how quick we are, as human beings, to push aside the most meaningful parts of our lives. Let’s not push aside the things that need to be talked about. Let’s bring mental illness to the light. The worst thing we can do is ignore it. It exists and it easily consumes. So if you’re struggling right now my role is to listen, discern your strengths and vulnerabilities, and invite growth as you place trust in my care.
Mental illness lives. Anxiety lives. OCD lives. Addiction lives. Depression lives. Imagine millions of people around the universe waking up with the same dark, aching places you promised you’d never talk about. I’ve noticed how quick we are, as human beings, to push aside the most meaningful parts of our lives. Let’s not push aside the things that need to be talked about. Let’s bring mental illness to the light. The worst thing we can do is ignore it. It exists and it easily consumes. So if you’re struggling right now my role is to listen, discern your strengths and vulnerabilities, and invite growth as you place trust in my care.
(469) 425-8848 View (469) 425-8848
Photo of Community Counseling Associates, Licensed Professional Counselor in Anna, TX
Community Counseling Associates
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, CSC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75071
Need help now? Call our caring staff today to discover how we can provide you solutions for life. Our team of counselors work together helping you with the most effective tools and resources possible! Our director has over 25 years of experience and a recognized national expert. We offer Solution Focused Counseling, CBT, & DBT interventions for adults, couples, children, teens, and families! If you or someone you love is struggling with depression, anxiety, marital issues, family conflict, grief, ADHD, trauma or other life challenges, we are here to provide a supportive, relaxing environment, and opportunities for change.
Need help now? Call our caring staff today to discover how we can provide you solutions for life. Our team of counselors work together helping you with the most effective tools and resources possible! Our director has over 25 years of experience and a recognized national expert. We offer Solution Focused Counseling, CBT, & DBT interventions for adults, couples, children, teens, and families! If you or someone you love is struggling with depression, anxiety, marital issues, family conflict, grief, ADHD, trauma or other life challenges, we are here to provide a supportive, relaxing environment, and opportunities for change.
(214) 919-5829 View (214) 919-5829

Online Therapists

Photo of Lauren Jones, Licensed Professional Counselor in Anna, TX
Lauren Jones
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Denton, TX 76201
I specialize in working with adults, teens, and children who are dealing with a wide range of treatment issues. This includes disordered eating, OCD, depression, PTSD, anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, personality disorders, sexual abuse, life adjustment issues, gender/identity, addiction, and relationships. As your therapist, I strive to create an engaging and comfortable environment where you feel at ease opening up and sharing. Together, we establish clear treatment goals that are tailored to your individual needs and circumstances.
I specialize in working with adults, teens, and children who are dealing with a wide range of treatment issues. This includes disordered eating, OCD, depression, PTSD, anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, personality disorders, sexual abuse, life adjustment issues, gender/identity, addiction, and relationships. As your therapist, I strive to create an engaging and comfortable environment where you feel at ease opening up and sharing. Together, we establish clear treatment goals that are tailored to your individual needs and circumstances.
(512) 768-2731 View (512) 768-2731
Photo of Lindsey Southall, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Anna, TX
Lindsey Southall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Southlake, TX 76092
depression and bipolar), Anxiety Struggles, Addiction, Relationship Concerns, and General Life Stresses.
Modern life can be very stressful. Many people find themselves struggling to cope with stress, career problems, depression, anxiety, and relationship problems. I specialize in working with individuals, families, and groups to help people cope with problems during various life stages.
depression and bipolar), Anxiety Struggles, Addiction, Relationship Concerns, and General Life Stresses.
Modern life can be very stressful. Many people find themselves struggling to cope with stress, career problems, depression, anxiety, and relationship problems. I specialize in working with individuals, families, and groups to help people cope with problems during various life stages.
(817) 330-8664 View (817) 330-8664
Photo of Marcy S Conner, Licensed Professional Counselor in Anna, TX
Marcy S Conner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Keller, TX 76248
I work with individuals who want to understand the root cause of their struggles and address those issues with long-lasting strategies, helping you get closer to the life you've always wanted. My areas of expertise are primarily in work with clients struggling with trauma, PTSD, and complex trauma, anxiety, stress, marital/relationships, pre-marital, parenting, blended families, life transitions, depression, grief/loss, bipolar disorder, and women’s issues. I am with the belief that the relationship can be the catalyst for healing and growth as as well as an environment of safety and non-judgement.
I work with individuals who want to understand the root cause of their struggles and address those issues with long-lasting strategies, helping you get closer to the life you've always wanted. My areas of expertise are primarily in work with clients struggling with trauma, PTSD, and complex trauma, anxiety, stress, marital/relationships, pre-marital, parenting, blended families, life transitions, depression, grief/loss, bipolar disorder, and women’s issues. I am with the belief that the relationship can be the catalyst for healing and growth as as well as an environment of safety and non-judgement.
(817) 697-0741 View (817) 697-0741
Photo of Candice Ronemus Supervised By Dr. Russ Bartee Lpc-S, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Anna, TX
Candice Ronemus Supervised By Dr. Russ Bartee Lpc-S
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, TX 76017
The lives we live can be entangled with the problem-saturated stories we tell ourselves. You are the expert in your life and have the story that holds that truth. Together we can work to re-story your life so you can have the preferred story you want for your life. I also offer EMDR to help your brain heal so that the present trauma will fade into the background, allowing you to re-build your preferred future. I have clinical experience working with diagnoses such as dissociative identity disorder, bipolar, anxiety, PTSD, sexual trauma/issues, trauma, panic disorders, and various mood disorders.
The lives we live can be entangled with the problem-saturated stories we tell ourselves. You are the expert in your life and have the story that holds that truth. Together we can work to re-story your life so you can have the preferred story you want for your life. I also offer EMDR to help your brain heal so that the present trauma will fade into the background, allowing you to re-build your preferred future. I have clinical experience working with diagnoses such as dissociative identity disorder, bipolar, anxiety, PTSD, sexual trauma/issues, trauma, panic disorders, and various mood disorders.
(682) 452-6684 View (682) 452-6684
Photo of Andrea Cunningham, Licensed Professional Counselor in Anna, TX
Andrea Cunningham
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S, CYT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75023
I am highly skilled in treating mood and anxiety disorders including depression and bipolar disorders, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, OCD, PTSD, and Social Anxiety Disorder.
I am committed to helping my clients achieve their goals. I believe that counseling can promote a lifestyle that results in physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. I focus on the client as a whole individual, rather than a disorder, and encourage healthy behaviors across various aspects of life. I conceptualize individuals and form treatment plans tailored to each client's unique characteristics, strengths, values, and needs. I work diligently to create a safe, empathic, and supportive environment for my clients.
I am highly skilled in treating mood and anxiety disorders including depression and bipolar disorders, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, OCD, PTSD, and Social Anxiety Disorder.
I am committed to helping my clients achieve their goals. I believe that counseling can promote a lifestyle that results in physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. I focus on the client as a whole individual, rather than a disorder, and encourage healthy behaviors across various aspects of life. I conceptualize individuals and form treatment plans tailored to each client's unique characteristics, strengths, values, and needs. I work diligently to create a safe, empathic, and supportive environment for my clients.
(972) 362-6668 View (972) 362-6668
Photo of Trish Borman, Psychologist in Anna, TX
Trish Borman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Addison, TX 75001
Areas of expertise include trauma/PTSD, anxiety, depression, bipolar, grief, end of life issues, general adult therapy, and chronic illness.
At times, life can be quite challenging and even painful. With specialties in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), I enjoy helping people to resolve struggles and issues like trauma/post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, grief, and other difficulties, to help them improve their health and well-being. I provide tangible coping strategies, skills, and problem solving. I promote growth by exploring and clarifying their needs, so that they can better meet their life's needs, and have more comfort and ease.
Areas of expertise include trauma/PTSD, anxiety, depression, bipolar, grief, end of life issues, general adult therapy, and chronic illness.
At times, life can be quite challenging and even painful. With specialties in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), I enjoy helping people to resolve struggles and issues like trauma/post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, grief, and other difficulties, to help them improve their health and well-being. I provide tangible coping strategies, skills, and problem solving. I promote growth by exploring and clarifying their needs, so that they can better meet their life's needs, and have more comfort and ease.
(469) 966-1530 View (469) 966-1530
Photo of Jasmine L Ervin, LPC-Associate in Anna, TX
Jasmine L Ervin
LPC-Associate
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75287  (Online Only)
I specialize in Womens Issues, Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Teens, Addiction, Relationship Issues, Bipolar Disorder, Adults with ADHD, Suicide Ideation, Divorce, LGBTQ+.
Hi my name is Jasmine Ervin, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor-Associate and Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor in the State of Texas. My 10+ years of experience educator, counselor, and administrator have acted as a catalyst in how I prioritize ensuring that my clients not only receive proper counsel, but relevant psych education in how to apply learned skills to their daily lives. My mental health background in the private practice and hospitalization setting (outpatient and inpatient) have prepared me to work with various diverse populations and an array of specialties.
I specialize in Womens Issues, Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Teens, Addiction, Relationship Issues, Bipolar Disorder, Adults with ADHD, Suicide Ideation, Divorce, LGBTQ+.
Hi my name is Jasmine Ervin, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor-Associate and Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor in the State of Texas. My 10+ years of experience educator, counselor, and administrator have acted as a catalyst in how I prioritize ensuring that my clients not only receive proper counsel, but relevant psych education in how to apply learned skills to their daily lives. My mental health background in the private practice and hospitalization setting (outpatient and inpatient) have prepared me to work with various diverse populations and an array of specialties.
(469) 224-5456 View (469) 224-5456
Photo of Charlotte L Demarais, Licensed Professional Counselor in Anna, TX
Charlotte L Demarais
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Heath, TX 75032  (Online Only)
As an integrate psychotherapist I assist clients reach their goals for mental, physical and spiritual health. Much can be gained by lifestyle changes to improve mood, reduce health issues, and create hope. I am passionate about providing a wholistic approach to psychotherapy. My focus is on helping those who struggle with depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorders, as well as, relationship issues, & trauma related issues. There usually is a cycle that involves brain & body health, interpersonal relationship and mood.
As an integrate psychotherapist I assist clients reach their goals for mental, physical and spiritual health. Much can be gained by lifestyle changes to improve mood, reduce health issues, and create hope. I am passionate about providing a wholistic approach to psychotherapy. My focus is on helping those who struggle with depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorders, as well as, relationship issues, & trauma related issues. There usually is a cycle that involves brain & body health, interpersonal relationship and mood.
(405) 450-7671 View (405) 450-7671
Photo of Lifeworks Counseling Center, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Anna, TX
Lifeworks Counseling Center, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Addison, TX 75001
Lifeworks therapists work with most emotional/psychological disorders; such as, major depression, bipolar, anxiety/PTSD, anger/stress, grief & personality disorders.
Lifeworks Counseling Center, PLLC has been in business since 1992. We provide therapy for ages 4 and up. We have 9 therapists (LPC, LMFT, LCSW) who provide counseling for almost any emotional/mental/spiritual challenge people face in today's culture. We have therapists on most major insurance and EAP panels and also work with private pay clients as well.
Lifeworks therapists work with most emotional/psychological disorders; such as, major depression, bipolar, anxiety/PTSD, anger/stress, grief & personality disorders.
Lifeworks Counseling Center, PLLC has been in business since 1992. We provide therapy for ages 4 and up. We have 9 therapists (LPC, LMFT, LCSW) who provide counseling for almost any emotional/mental/spiritual challenge people face in today's culture. We have therapists on most major insurance and EAP panels and also work with private pay clients as well.
(972) 435-0231 View (972) 435-0231

See more therapy options for Anna

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.