Photo of Monica (Love The Beach) Ferraro, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Austin, TX
Monica (Love The Beach) Ferraro
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, CA AMFT, MA/EMDR, DV/P&V, IFS, NP, TX LPCA
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78733  (Online Only)
Welcome Couples and young adults ready to make the "shifts" in life to find THE thing that you're missing. First step, awareness; then reflection and finally forward thinking options. It's scary, but let's examine what is and tackle the fear; THIS is where the biggest growth begins! Neuroplasticity is the tool; you have it. I work with trauma, anxiety, bipolar, depression, grief, sexual abuse/rape, addiction, nonstop thoughts, low self esteem and nightmares. Is peace worth seeking? Let's get after it CA and Texas!
Welcome Couples and young adults ready to make the "shifts" in life to find THE thing that you're missing. First step, awareness; then reflection and finally forward thinking options. It's scary, but let's examine what is and tackle the fear; THIS is where the biggest growth begins! Neuroplasticity is the tool; you have it. I work with trauma, anxiety, bipolar, depression, grief, sexual abuse/rape, addiction, nonstop thoughts, low self esteem and nightmares. Is peace worth seeking? Let's get after it CA and Texas!
(619) 259-6498 View (619) 259-6498
Photo of Arthur Gaylian Kirby II, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin, TX
Arthur Gaylian Kirby II
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS MDIV, LPC(S)
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78732
Life experience has taught me to understand mental illness, bipolar mood disorder, other mood disorders, personality disorders, abuse victims of multiple sources, attachment disorders, sick and healthy religion and spiritually.
My job is to help people live happier lives. My office is a continuing education service for all who enter. The goal for me, and hopefully for the person I am working with, is to learn from each other through the change agent of conversation. After 40 years of experience, my belief is that humans never really change until what they have done is working anymore, is broken, and/or gone. Thus change begins with loss, some small and some life ending. At these moments of transition, learning how to let go is the lesson, whether we like it or not. Whatever big change you are going through, positive or negative begins with an ending.
Life experience has taught me to understand mental illness, bipolar mood disorder, other mood disorders, personality disorders, abuse victims of multiple sources, attachment disorders, sick and healthy religion and spiritually.
My job is to help people live happier lives. My office is a continuing education service for all who enter. The goal for me, and hopefully for the person I am working with, is to learn from each other through the change agent of conversation. After 40 years of experience, my belief is that humans never really change until what they have done is working anymore, is broken, and/or gone. Thus change begins with loss, some small and some life ending. At these moments of transition, learning how to let go is the lesson, whether we like it or not. Whatever big change you are going through, positive or negative begins with an ending.
(210) 664-4392 View (210) 664-4392
Photo of Sara Sloan, Marriage & Family Therapist in Austin, TX
Sara Sloan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CST, AASECT, IRT, MFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78750
I believe relationships define each of us and form the foundation for our life. I work from a systemic perspective with couples, individuals, and families to create relationships that define not only who we are, but also who we desire to become. I help clients with their relationships, intimacy, connection, communication, and sexual compatibility. I work with a lot of women who have suffered from Narcissistic abuse in relationships and family of origin. I also help those who are confused in their current relationships. I enjoy helping those who have autoimmune disease and cancer redefine their sexuality, relationships and desire.
I believe relationships define each of us and form the foundation for our life. I work from a systemic perspective with couples, individuals, and families to create relationships that define not only who we are, but also who we desire to become. I help clients with their relationships, intimacy, connection, communication, and sexual compatibility. I work with a lot of women who have suffered from Narcissistic abuse in relationships and family of origin. I also help those who are confused in their current relationships. I enjoy helping those who have autoimmune disease and cancer redefine their sexuality, relationships and desire.
(512) 982-9836 View (512) 982-9836
Photo of J. Jade Adair, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Austin, TX
J. Jade Adair
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, LCDC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78748
I serve diverse adults (age 20+), specifically those who have alternative identities (artists, creatives, counter-culture, & minorities of all types) as well as other therapists. I provide a non-judgmental and understanding space for people who may have struggled engaging in therapy in the past due to feeling judged for being “weird” or “different”. My clients typically feel stuck in one or more areas of life (relationship, family, career, holistic health, identity, personal happiness, etc.) and are sometimes struggling with mood and/or anxiety disorders, substance abuse, maladaptive coping behaviors, unresolved traumas, etc.
I serve diverse adults (age 20+), specifically those who have alternative identities (artists, creatives, counter-culture, & minorities of all types) as well as other therapists. I provide a non-judgmental and understanding space for people who may have struggled engaging in therapy in the past due to feeling judged for being “weird” or “different”. My clients typically feel stuck in one or more areas of life (relationship, family, career, holistic health, identity, personal happiness, etc.) and are sometimes struggling with mood and/or anxiety disorders, substance abuse, maladaptive coping behaviors, unresolved traumas, etc.
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Photo of Dominguez Psychiatry and Counseling Center, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin, TX
Dominguez Psychiatry and Counseling Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78701
My name is Shanna Dominguez and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. You may be experiencing worry, fear, anxiety, depression, or a variety of other emotions. Good news, those emotions can be managed, I believe there are two experts in the room: You are the expert of your life and I am the clinical expert. I have had the privilege of working with adults, couples, and adolescents. I use a variety of techniques and theories to guide my work with you depending on what fits your needs. I specialize in CBT and DBT methods. As humans, we not only want to feel understood, but we want to understand ourselves & why we do the things we do.
My name is Shanna Dominguez and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. You may be experiencing worry, fear, anxiety, depression, or a variety of other emotions. Good news, those emotions can be managed, I believe there are two experts in the room: You are the expert of your life and I am the clinical expert. I have had the privilege of working with adults, couples, and adolescents. I use a variety of techniques and theories to guide my work with you depending on what fits your needs. I specialize in CBT and DBT methods. As humans, we not only want to feel understood, but we want to understand ourselves & why we do the things we do.
(737) 302-4895 View (737) 302-4895
Photo of Deep Eddy Psychotherapy, Psychologist in Austin, TX
Deep Eddy Psychotherapy
Psychologist, PhD, CGP, LCSW, LPC, PsyD
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78703
Deep Eddy Psychotherapy is a leading mental health practice with providers all across the state of Texas. We serve kids, adults, and couples through evidence-based psychotherapy and assessment methods. Learn more at DeepEddyPsychotherapy.com
Deep Eddy Psychotherapy is a leading mental health practice with providers all across the state of Texas. We serve kids, adults, and couples through evidence-based psychotherapy and assessment methods. Learn more at DeepEddyPsychotherapy.com
(512) 861-8779 View (512) 861-8779
Photo of LaShekia Scott, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Austin, TX
LaShekia Scott
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, Post-MA, LMFT-A, LCDC-I
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78731  (Online Only)
Introducing a dedicated and compassionate guide to navigate through life's challenges. When faced with adversity or feeling trapped in difficult circumstances, I am here to offer unwavering support and accompany you on your path towards healing, freedom, and inner peace. As a licensed marriage and family therapist associate (LMFT-A) in the state of TX and WA, I provide support, guidance, and empowerment to my clients, assisting them in my journey towards long-lasting change, restoration of hope, and living authentically fulfilled lives. Utilizing modalities like CC Play Therapy, CBT, Trauma Focused CBT, Gottman Method CT.
Introducing a dedicated and compassionate guide to navigate through life's challenges. When faced with adversity or feeling trapped in difficult circumstances, I am here to offer unwavering support and accompany you on your path towards healing, freedom, and inner peace. As a licensed marriage and family therapist associate (LMFT-A) in the state of TX and WA, I provide support, guidance, and empowerment to my clients, assisting them in my journey towards long-lasting change, restoration of hope, and living authentically fulfilled lives. Utilizing modalities like CC Play Therapy, CBT, Trauma Focused CBT, Gottman Method CT.
(832) 400-6506 View (832) 400-6506
Photo of Black Moth Psychotherapy & Supervision , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Austin, TX
Black Moth Psychotherapy & Supervision
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, CSTIP
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78702  (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Esperanza. I want to be your LCSW supervisor! My supervision services help create culturally competent, trauma informed clinicians with unique clinical skills focused on evidence based whole brain whole body practices. With specializations in somatics, behavioral neuroscience, integrative medicine and more, I am confident that I can guide you into becoming the best clinician you can be. Clinical supervision is an investment, so I will always ensure you're getting MORE than your money's worth! Pricing includes access to e-books, clinical resources, and top notch LCSW exam prep. Only accepting supervisees at this time.
Hi, I'm Esperanza. I want to be your LCSW supervisor! My supervision services help create culturally competent, trauma informed clinicians with unique clinical skills focused on evidence based whole brain whole body practices. With specializations in somatics, behavioral neuroscience, integrative medicine and more, I am confident that I can guide you into becoming the best clinician you can be. Clinical supervision is an investment, so I will always ensure you're getting MORE than your money's worth! Pricing includes access to e-books, clinical resources, and top notch LCSW exam prep. Only accepting supervisees at this time.
(210) 592-4799 View (210) 592-4799
Photo of Apela Counseling - Ashley Stephens, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Austin, TX
Apela Counseling - Ashley Stephens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78746  (Online Only)
Is life getting you down? Are you struggling and don't know where to turn? We can help! Check us out at apelalicensurellc.com/therapy. We welcome clients who need help to get things back on track, no matter what the concern. We welcome clients of all ages, races, religions, and life stages who are interested in working through life, together with their therapist. We are here to offer you support and healing during life's good and rough times. The therapists at Apela currently only see clients online through telehealth.
Is life getting you down? Are you struggling and don't know where to turn? We can help! Check us out at apelalicensurellc.com/therapy. We welcome clients who need help to get things back on track, no matter what the concern. We welcome clients of all ages, races, religions, and life stages who are interested in working through life, together with their therapist. We are here to offer you support and healing during life's good and rough times. The therapists at Apela currently only see clients online through telehealth.
(830) 465-3623 View (830) 465-3623
Photo of Dominguez Psychiatry and Counseling Center, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin, TX
Dominguez Psychiatry and Counseling Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 73301
You may be experiencing worry, fear, anxiety, depression, or a variety of other emotions. Good news, those emotions can be managed, I believe there are two experts in the room: You are the expert of your life and I am the clinical expert. I have had the privilege of working with adults, couples, and adolescents. I use a variety of techniques and theories to guide my work with you depending on what fits your needs. I specialize in CBT and DBT methods. As humans, we not only want to feel understood, but we want to understand ourselves & why we do the things we do.
You may be experiencing worry, fear, anxiety, depression, or a variety of other emotions. Good news, those emotions can be managed, I believe there are two experts in the room: You are the expert of your life and I am the clinical expert. I have had the privilege of working with adults, couples, and adolescents. I use a variety of techniques and theories to guide my work with you depending on what fits your needs. I specialize in CBT and DBT methods. As humans, we not only want to feel understood, but we want to understand ourselves & why we do the things we do.
(512) 817-0214 View (512) 817-0214
Photo of Dominguez Psychotherapy and Counseling Center, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin, TX
Dominguez Psychotherapy and Counseling Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 73344
My name is Shanna Dominguez and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. You may be experiencing worry, fear, anxiety, depression, or a variety of other emotions. Good news, those emotions can be managed, I believe there are two experts in the room: You are the expert of your life and I am the clinical expert. I have had the privilege of working with adults, couples, and adolescents. I use a variety of techniques and theories to guide my work with you depending on what fits your needs. I specialize in CBT and DBT methods. As humans, we not only want to feel understood, but we want to understand ourselves & why we do the things we do
My name is Shanna Dominguez and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. You may be experiencing worry, fear, anxiety, depression, or a variety of other emotions. Good news, those emotions can be managed, I believe there are two experts in the room: You are the expert of your life and I am the clinical expert. I have had the privilege of working with adults, couples, and adolescents. I use a variety of techniques and theories to guide my work with you depending on what fits your needs. I specialize in CBT and DBT methods. As humans, we not only want to feel understood, but we want to understand ourselves & why we do the things we do
(214) 983-9751 View (214) 983-9751
Photo of Dominguez Psychotherapy and Counseling Center, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin, TX
Dominguez Psychotherapy and Counseling Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 73301
My name is Shanna Dominguez and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. You may be experiencing worry, fear, anxiety, depression or a variety of other emotions. Good news, those emotions can be managed, I believe there are two experts in the room: You are the expert of your life and I am the clinical expert. I have had the privilege of working with adults, couples, and adolescents. I use a variety of techniques and theories to guide my work with you depending on what fits your needs. I specialize in CBT and DBT methods. As humans, we not only want to feel understood but we want to understand ourselves. Why do we do the things we do?
My name is Shanna Dominguez and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. You may be experiencing worry, fear, anxiety, depression or a variety of other emotions. Good news, those emotions can be managed, I believe there are two experts in the room: You are the expert of your life and I am the clinical expert. I have had the privilege of working with adults, couples, and adolescents. I use a variety of techniques and theories to guide my work with you depending on what fits your needs. I specialize in CBT and DBT methods. As humans, we not only want to feel understood but we want to understand ourselves. Why do we do the things we do?
(979) 366-3103 View (979) 366-3103
Photo of Amanda Bailey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Austin, TX
Amanda Bailey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78735
As a therapist, it is my job to provide you with an atmosphere where you feel safe to be completely honest, genuine, and vulnerable about who you are and what you want and need without fear of judgment or disapproval. This will be a place where you can be your true self (the good, the bad, and the ugly), and you can feel comfortable sharing things that you have maybe never told anyone else. Trust is vital. I sincerely believe that in any context, when a person is willing to risk sharing deeply personal information with another, that person deserves to know that information is sacred and confidential.
As a therapist, it is my job to provide you with an atmosphere where you feel safe to be completely honest, genuine, and vulnerable about who you are and what you want and need without fear of judgment or disapproval. This will be a place where you can be your true self (the good, the bad, and the ugly), and you can feel comfortable sharing things that you have maybe never told anyone else. Trust is vital. I sincerely believe that in any context, when a person is willing to risk sharing deeply personal information with another, that person deserves to know that information is sacred and confidential.
(737) 377-5073 View (737) 377-5073
Photo of Elijah Stinger, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Austin, TX
Elijah Stinger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78759
Lucy in the Peanuts cartoon once said, "to be happy you also have to be sad sometimes; then you're really happy." I agree! Life is about engagement with all of your feelings. How do you relate to your life? Are you finding challenges, aliveness, connection to self and others? Do you have a sense of meaning or is life just something to get through? Are you living or just existing? I strive to assist clients in being closer, more alive, connected, and vibrant, embracing the highs and the lows of life with more balance and acceptance.
Lucy in the Peanuts cartoon once said, "to be happy you also have to be sad sometimes; then you're really happy." I agree! Life is about engagement with all of your feelings. How do you relate to your life? Are you finding challenges, aliveness, connection to self and others? Do you have a sense of meaning or is life just something to get through? Are you living or just existing? I strive to assist clients in being closer, more alive, connected, and vibrant, embracing the highs and the lows of life with more balance and acceptance.
(325) 219-5568 View (325) 219-5568
Photo of Michelle John, PhD, LPC-S, SEP, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin, TX
Michelle John, PhD, LPC-S, SEP
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, SEP
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78703  (Online Only)
You are making the choice to embrace a new empowered you! Realizing that there is strength in finding support, this choice can lead you to a positive path of growth and well-being. Applying integrative therapeutic techniques, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling life. If you're looking for support and guidance through challenging situations or you're ready to move in another direction, I look forward to working with you to achieve your goals. In a creative atmosphere I can help you uncover your true potential and a life worth celebrating!
You are making the choice to embrace a new empowered you! Realizing that there is strength in finding support, this choice can lead you to a positive path of growth and well-being. Applying integrative therapeutic techniques, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling life. If you're looking for support and guidance through challenging situations or you're ready to move in another direction, I look forward to working with you to achieve your goals. In a creative atmosphere I can help you uncover your true potential and a life worth celebrating!
(512) 213-4840 View (512) 213-4840
Photo of Jan Anderson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin, TX
Jan Anderson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78704
People sometimes struggle with the idea of going to see a counselor. Often it's difficult to know where to begin. Sometimes finding the right counselor can mean finding new hope, new choices--a new life. My task is to create a protected space so that you'll feel comfortable and safe. I listen carefully, objectively, with kindness and humor and without judgment. I respond with training, intuition, insight, honesty, and engage a variety of techniques to meet your presenting issue. I consider it a privilege that clients are willing to share their lives with me and I honor that trust.
People sometimes struggle with the idea of going to see a counselor. Often it's difficult to know where to begin. Sometimes finding the right counselor can mean finding new hope, new choices--a new life. My task is to create a protected space so that you'll feel comfortable and safe. I listen carefully, objectively, with kindness and humor and without judgment. I respond with training, intuition, insight, honesty, and engage a variety of techniques to meet your presenting issue. I consider it a privilege that clients are willing to share their lives with me and I honor that trust.
(361) 444-1906 View (361) 444-1906
Photo of Donna M. Hilbig, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin, TX
Donna M. Hilbig
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC-S, NCC, SEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78704
Stress is a natural result of facing life's challenges and necessary for growth. Finding balance allows us to manage stress. With 34 years of experience working with children, adults, couples and families, I can help you and those you love navigate the journey of growth and self-discovery, develop and prioritize strategies for achieving your goals and find balance. I start by performing a solution-focused interview to identify and build upon your unique strengths and resources. I have faith in the perseverance of the human spirit, given the right amount of time, support and the necessary tools.
Stress is a natural result of facing life's challenges and necessary for growth. Finding balance allows us to manage stress. With 34 years of experience working with children, adults, couples and families, I can help you and those you love navigate the journey of growth and self-discovery, develop and prioritize strategies for achieving your goals and find balance. I start by performing a solution-focused interview to identify and build upon your unique strengths and resources. I have faith in the perseverance of the human spirit, given the right amount of time, support and the necessary tools.
(512) 515-1545 View (512) 515-1545
Photo of Inspire Recovery, Registered Social Worker Intern in Austin, TX
Inspire Recovery
Registered Social Worker Intern, MSW
Not Verified Not Verified
Austin, TX 78704
Jaki Neering, MSW, takes a loving & progressive approach when working with the LGBTQIA+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, Asexual + community. She graduated from Barry University in 2016 with a Master in Social Work. Jaki believes in the power of trauma-informed interventions, which recognizes human vulnerability but focuses on finding strengths, resources, and capacity for healing and recovery, by promoting factors that will enhance a person's resilience. She has a passion for empowering marginalized populations, and she is devoted to serving the LGBTQIA+ population suffering with alcoholism, drug addiction & mental health issues. Jaki assists individuals in finding their voice, and advocates for self-expression. Additionally, Jaki believes in the transformation of recovery, and is passionate about helping others find their truth.
Jaki Neering, MSW, takes a loving & progressive approach when working with the LGBTQIA+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, Asexual + community. She graduated from Barry University in 2016 with a Master in Social Work. Jaki believes in the power of trauma-informed interventions, which recognizes human vulnerability but focuses on finding strengths, resources, and capacity for healing and recovery, by promoting factors that will enhance a person's resilience. She has a passion for empowering marginalized populations, and she is devoted to serving the LGBTQIA+ population suffering with alcoholism, drug addiction & mental health issues. Jaki assists individuals in finding their voice, and advocates for self-expression. Additionally, Jaki believes in the transformation of recovery, and is passionate about helping others find their truth.
(561) 475-4729 View (561) 475-4729
Photo of Rosa Tupina Yaotonalcuauhtli, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Austin, TX
Rosa Tupina Yaotonalcuauhtli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78748
"I believe in people and their desire to be in balance. My best clients are the ones who are ready to make the decision to experience therapy as a tool in their self-discovery and healing process. I want to help them believe that change is possible no matter how their lives have been affected by emotional & mental problems, trauma, and multiple painful experiences. I am here to help you learn how to create your own balance and harmony and achieve order out of chaos making your life more meaningful."
"I believe in people and their desire to be in balance. My best clients are the ones who are ready to make the decision to experience therapy as a tool in their self-discovery and healing process. I want to help them believe that change is possible no matter how their lives have been affected by emotional & mental problems, trauma, and multiple painful experiences. I am here to help you learn how to create your own balance and harmony and achieve order out of chaos making your life more meaningful."
(512) 746-1673 View (512) 746-1673
Photo of Rhonda Griffin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin, TX
Rhonda Griffin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78717
Rhonda Griffin, LPC has been a counselor for 23 years. She has a master's in Applied Behavioral Science from Bastyr University in Seattle, Washington. She has taught counseling and supervised intern graduate students. Rhonda engages easily with compassion and a warm sense of humor. A harmonious blend of west coast perspective with Texan common sense. She brings practical skills and knowledge to her clients for problem solving using various modalities. A Systemic Family practitioner, she also uses Cognitive Behavioral, Dialectic Behavioral, Jungian, and Emotion Focused Therapy. Rhonda is currently accepting new clients
Rhonda Griffin, LPC has been a counselor for 23 years. She has a master's in Applied Behavioral Science from Bastyr University in Seattle, Washington. She has taught counseling and supervised intern graduate students. Rhonda engages easily with compassion and a warm sense of humor. A harmonious blend of west coast perspective with Texan common sense. She brings practical skills and knowledge to her clients for problem solving using various modalities. A Systemic Family practitioner, she also uses Cognitive Behavioral, Dialectic Behavioral, Jungian, and Emotion Focused Therapy. Rhonda is currently accepting new clients
(833) 499-0532 View (833) 499-0532
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.