Photo of Beth Linfoot, Counseling, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bandera County, TX
Beth Linfoot, Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MA, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Pipe Creek, TX 78063
Waitlist for new clients
I work with teens, young adults, individuals, families, and couples. I have extensive experience with relationship issues, self-esteem, depression, bipolar, trauma, anxiety, and addiction. I believe that all great struggle creates the opportunity for profound growth and that what lies on the other side of discomfort is greater than any of us could have imagined. I am passionate about helping others realize their emotional and spiritual potential.
I work with teens, young adults, individuals, families, and couples. I have extensive experience with relationship issues, self-esteem, depression, bipolar, trauma, anxiety, and addiction. I believe that all great struggle creates the opportunity for profound growth and that what lies on the other side of discomfort is greater than any of us could have imagined. I am passionate about helping others realize their emotional and spiritual potential.
(210) 591-8031 View (210) 591-8031
Photo of Deborah Crocetti, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bandera County, TX
Deborah Crocetti
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bandera, TX 78003  (Online Only)
Specialties include Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, Couples work, Depression, Trauma and Substance Abuse.
Deborah has enjoyed helping individuals, couples, and families find new solutions to move through the complications of life, impacting generations while helping one person at a time. She uses a Solution-Focused Brief Therapy Model in addition to ACT and CBT, to help people get their lives back on track and enjoy everyday living once again. She is passionate about her work and fascinated by the resilience of people.
Specialties include Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, Couples work, Depression, Trauma and Substance Abuse.
Deborah has enjoyed helping individuals, couples, and families find new solutions to move through the complications of life, impacting generations while helping one person at a time. She uses a Solution-Focused Brief Therapy Model in addition to ACT and CBT, to help people get their lives back on track and enjoy everyday living once again. She is passionate about her work and fascinated by the resilience of people.
(737) 530-3236 View (737) 530-3236
Photo of Shawn Lee Reagan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bandera County, TX
Shawn Lee Reagan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Pipe Creek, TX 78063
Asking for help is a sign of strength. People mistake the feeling of vulnerability for weakness, allowing this feeling to surface means we are facing something painful. This takes courage. Learning to experience feelings without judging them is a foundational part of the healing process. Acceptance is a sign of bravery and leads to developing what is called emotional intelligence. When you engage in the development of your emotional intelligence you are increasing self-awareness and personal freedom by creating choice where there was none before.
Asking for help is a sign of strength. People mistake the feeling of vulnerability for weakness, allowing this feeling to surface means we are facing something painful. This takes courage. Learning to experience feelings without judging them is a foundational part of the healing process. Acceptance is a sign of bravery and leads to developing what is called emotional intelligence. When you engage in the development of your emotional intelligence you are increasing self-awareness and personal freedom by creating choice where there was none before.
(830) 541-7360 View (830) 541-7360
Photo of Rhonda Kay Fousek, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bandera County, TX
Rhonda Kay Fousek
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Vanderpool, TX 78885
Waitlist for new clients
In this crazy, non predictable world are you anxious, angry or overwhelmed? Are you more stressed, avoiding others, or are you to the point of calling it quits? Are you dealing with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, ADHD, PTSD, trauma or abuse. I believe we learn survival skills from our past that affect your present relationships, but are no longer heathy & we feel stuck. I am a Christian Therapist for over 20years. There is HOPE. God is a God of attachments and HE says it is not good to be alone. HE has given me to passion and HIS knowledge and HIS Wisdom to help you walk through this journey. You are not alone.
In this crazy, non predictable world are you anxious, angry or overwhelmed? Are you more stressed, avoiding others, or are you to the point of calling it quits? Are you dealing with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, ADHD, PTSD, trauma or abuse. I believe we learn survival skills from our past that affect your present relationships, but are no longer heathy & we feel stuck. I am a Christian Therapist for over 20years. There is HOPE. God is a God of attachments and HE says it is not good to be alone. HE has given me to passion and HIS knowledge and HIS Wisdom to help you walk through this journey. You are not alone.
(830) 433-8946 View (830) 433-8946
Photo of Eric R Cardwell, Psychologist in Bandera County, TX
Eric R Cardwell
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bandera, TX 78003
As a psychologist, I strive to develop relationships with people that will allow them to make changes in their lives as quickly as possible. I believe that each one of us is in charge of the story of our lives and because of this we have the power to change our lives for the better. Through a gentle, firm, and compassionate approach you will find resolution to life's challenges in a way that will bring peace,support, understanding,and direction.
As a psychologist, I strive to develop relationships with people that will allow them to make changes in their lives as quickly as possible. I believe that each one of us is in charge of the story of our lives and because of this we have the power to change our lives for the better. Through a gentle, firm, and compassionate approach you will find resolution to life's challenges in a way that will bring peace,support, understanding,and direction.
(830) 446-3949 View (830) 446-3949
Photo of Christian Counseling Center Boerne, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bandera County, TX
Christian Counseling Center Boerne
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
Bandera, TX 78003
Is emotional pain, anxiety, depression, or lack of focus interfering with your personal fulfillment? Life may have given you trauma, but together we can create a new and better direction. Difficult relationships, grief, unwanted or racing thoughts, cause panic attacks, sleeplessness, fears, anger, or addictions. As an experienced counselor and retired school teacher, I am trained to address these symptoms using EMDR, Prayer, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, and more. Whether it's in my office in Boerne or online, Therapy can be the key in opening new doors for you.
Is emotional pain, anxiety, depression, or lack of focus interfering with your personal fulfillment? Life may have given you trauma, but together we can create a new and better direction. Difficult relationships, grief, unwanted or racing thoughts, cause panic attacks, sleeplessness, fears, anger, or addictions. As an experienced counselor and retired school teacher, I am trained to address these symptoms using EMDR, Prayer, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, and more. Whether it's in my office in Boerne or online, Therapy can be the key in opening new doors for you.
(830) 224-2822 View (830) 224-2822

Online Therapists

Photo of Brooke Gilliland, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bandera County, TX
Brooke Gilliland
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, RPT, NCC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78258
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in helping with these clinical concerns (including the management of bipolar disorders).
You may be nervous just thinking about starting the therapy process. So here's a little bit about how I do therapy. I specialize in Christian counseling and play therapy, as well as using expressive/sandtray therapy in sessions. What does this mean? It means that I believe it's super helpful to use many things within the therapy context. The image of sitting on a couch talking is not the only way counseling services are provided. Therapy can include using your faith to understand how to do things differently. It can also include using forms of creativity (art, sandtray) to identify points of being stuck and find new ways to heal!
I specialize in helping with these clinical concerns (including the management of bipolar disorders).
You may be nervous just thinking about starting the therapy process. So here's a little bit about how I do therapy. I specialize in Christian counseling and play therapy, as well as using expressive/sandtray therapy in sessions. What does this mean? It means that I believe it's super helpful to use many things within the therapy context. The image of sitting on a couch talking is not the only way counseling services are provided. Therapy can include using your faith to understand how to do things differently. It can also include using forms of creativity (art, sandtray) to identify points of being stuck and find new ways to heal!
(210) 791-9378 View (210) 791-9378
Photo of Kayla Burrow, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bandera County, TX
Kayla Burrow
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78705  (Online Only)
I am a licensed professional counselor in Texas with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia & schizoaffective disorder, as well as, the co-occurring diagnosis .
I am a licensed professional counselor in Texas with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia & schizoaffective disorder, as well as, the co-occurring diagnosis .
(737) 252-6587 View (737) 252-6587
Photo of Vicki Ray, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bandera County, TX
Vicki Ray
Licensed Professional Counselor, MBA, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78759
My specialties include Dual Diagnosis (co-occurring addiction & mental health issues); support for family and friends of those with addiction and/or mental health issues; Anxiety; Bipolar; Trauma and PTSD; career challenges; major life transitions; and corporate, military, missionary and internationally mobile individuals (global nomads or TCKs).
I believe the best counseling is done in a safe, confidential and collaborative environment. It can be difficult to reach out, so it is important to find a counselor with whom you feel comfortable.
My specialties include Dual Diagnosis (co-occurring addiction & mental health issues); support for family and friends of those with addiction and/or mental health issues; Anxiety; Bipolar; Trauma and PTSD; career challenges; major life transitions; and corporate, military, missionary and internationally mobile individuals (global nomads or TCKs).
I believe the best counseling is done in a safe, confidential and collaborative environment. It can be difficult to reach out, so it is important to find a counselor with whom you feel comfortable.
(512) 663-6368 View (512) 663-6368
Photo of Theresa J. Reinhart Redbud Therapy Llc, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bandera County, TX
Theresa J. Reinhart Redbud Therapy Llc
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA , LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78701  (Online Only)
My experience includes working with anxiety, depression, grief, complex trauma, bipolar disorder, family of origin issues, parenting concerns, and relationship challenges.
Therapy offers a safe welcoming space where an individual, couple, or family can explore and process their unique narratives without judgment or blame. I believe that empathy and trust are fundamental components to a healthy therapeutic relationship. In my practice I strive to meet people where they are on their healing journey. My therapeutic stance is grounded in compassion and a firm belief in the mind, body, spirit connection.
My experience includes working with anxiety, depression, grief, complex trauma, bipolar disorder, family of origin issues, parenting concerns, and relationship challenges.
Therapy offers a safe welcoming space where an individual, couple, or family can explore and process their unique narratives without judgment or blame. I believe that empathy and trust are fundamental components to a healthy therapeutic relationship. In my practice I strive to meet people where they are on their healing journey. My therapeutic stance is grounded in compassion and a firm belief in the mind, body, spirit connection.
(737) 520-4620 View (737) 520-4620
Photo of A World of Respect, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bandera County, TX
A World of Respect
Marriage & Family Therapist, LPC-S, LMFT-S
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78723
I offer marital and premarital counseling, family and relationship conflicts counseling, specializing in: Child and adolescent behavior;Fostercare Depression; Bipolar disorder; ADD and ADHD; Sexual abuse; Grief and trauma therapy; Transitional life issues; GLB issues.
Susanne Slay-Westbrook, Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist-Supervisor, author and founder of A World of Respect, has been helping couples, families, children and individuals of all ages overcome relational, behavioral and emotional conflicts since 1984. By applying Respect-Focused Therapy, an approach which emphasizes respect as the centerpiece of therapy, I help clients identify and overcome hurtful patterns, resolve conflicts. past or present, and develop effective coping strategies in everyday life. I've written a new book, "Respect-FocusedTherapy: Honoring Clients Through the Therapeutic Relationship and Process," Routledge Pub. Available Oct. 1, 2 016.
I offer marital and premarital counseling, family and relationship conflicts counseling, specializing in: Child and adolescent behavior;Fostercare Depression; Bipolar disorder; ADD and ADHD; Sexual abuse; Grief and trauma therapy; Transitional life issues; GLB issues.
Susanne Slay-Westbrook, Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist-Supervisor, author and founder of A World of Respect, has been helping couples, families, children and individuals of all ages overcome relational, behavioral and emotional conflicts since 1984. By applying Respect-Focused Therapy, an approach which emphasizes respect as the centerpiece of therapy, I help clients identify and overcome hurtful patterns, resolve conflicts. past or present, and develop effective coping strategies in everyday life. I've written a new book, "Respect-FocusedTherapy: Honoring Clients Through the Therapeutic Relationship and Process," Routledge Pub. Available Oct. 1, 2 016.
(512) 649-0127 View (512) 649-0127
Photo of Anne Marie Jennings, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bandera County, TX
Anne Marie Jennings
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78746
My specialties include depression, anxiety, marital counseling, parent-child relationships, families, bipolar disorder, and anger management.
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 managed depression, anxiety, OCD, trauma, marital stress, parent-child difficulties, domestic violence, substance abuse, bipolar disorder, and anger issues.
My specialties include depression, anxiety, marital counseling, parent-child relationships, families, bipolar disorder, and anger management.
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 managed depression, anxiety, OCD, trauma, marital stress, parent-child difficulties, domestic violence, substance abuse, bipolar disorder, and anger issues.
(512) 430-4524 View (512) 430-4524
Photo of Richard Fulton, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bandera County, TX
Richard Fulton
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78705  (Online Only)
Hello! I received my Masters Degree in Counseling at the University of North Texas in Denton Texas. I come from a cognitive behavioral orientation although I also use gestalt therapy. I have treated mental health and addiction issues for 29 years. I have worked with a variety of populations including people with grief issues, HIV and AIDS, dual diagnosis (addiction with a mental health disorder), couples, bipolar disorder, anxiety, depression and PTSD. I have experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I currently have a private practice in Meridian Texas. I practice exclusively online.
Hello! I received my Masters Degree in Counseling at the University of North Texas in Denton Texas. I come from a cognitive behavioral orientation although I also use gestalt therapy. I have treated mental health and addiction issues for 29 years. I have worked with a variety of populations including people with grief issues, HIV and AIDS, dual diagnosis (addiction with a mental health disorder), couples, bipolar disorder, anxiety, depression and PTSD. I have experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I currently have a private practice in Meridian Texas. I practice exclusively online.
(737) 238-6184 View (737) 238-6184
Photo of Maxine Bettis-Arnold, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bandera County, TX
Maxine Bettis-Arnold
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
I focus on coping with mood disorders such as bipolar and depression.
It takes courage to seek help and it is important to feel heard, understood and safe in the therapy relationship. I focus on building a strong relationship with the client that allows us to explore areas of concern and start the healing process. My belief in the capacity to change thinking patterns, emotional reactions and behaviors helps clients identify strengths, gain insight and help develop coping strategies. We work with therapeutic resources to help families, couples and individuals accomplish their goals.
I focus on coping with mood disorders such as bipolar and depression.
It takes courage to seek help and it is important to feel heard, understood and safe in the therapy relationship. I focus on building a strong relationship with the client that allows us to explore areas of concern and start the healing process. My belief in the capacity to change thinking patterns, emotional reactions and behaviors helps clients identify strengths, gain insight and help develop coping strategies. We work with therapeutic resources to help families, couples and individuals accomplish their goals.
(720) 307-3797 View (720) 307-3797
Photo of January Martin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bandera County, TX
January Martin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCDC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78735
I work well with adults coping with bipolar disorder, psychosis, depression, grief, and trauma.
I believe that people should not be limited to a label. We are so much more than problems or disorders; we are strengthened by our flaws and our most difficult experiences can transform us. I am direct, interactive, and strongly believe that people change through healing relationships. In sessions we will work together at a pace that feels right for you. We will identify and prioritize your goals, address problems that get in the way of your happiness, and collaboratively build lasting solutions. I will listen to and accept your feedback about how we are working together.
I work well with adults coping with bipolar disorder, psychosis, depression, grief, and trauma.
I believe that people should not be limited to a label. We are so much more than problems or disorders; we are strengthened by our flaws and our most difficult experiences can transform us. I am direct, interactive, and strongly believe that people change through healing relationships. In sessions we will work together at a pace that feels right for you. We will identify and prioritize your goals, address problems that get in the way of your happiness, and collaboratively build lasting solutions. I will listen to and accept your feedback about how we are working together.
(512) 948-3370 View (512) 948-3370
Photo of Arthur Gaylian Kirby II, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bandera County, TX
Arthur Gaylian Kirby II
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS MDIV, LPC(S)
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78229
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 Audry Steele, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bandera County, TX
Audry Steele
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78746
I specialize in a broad spectrum of psychological issues including anxiety, stress, depression, relationship complexities, codependency, narcissism, parenting, grief, post-partum challenges, self-esteem, bipolar symptoms, anger, and trauma.
Accepting new clients – Welcome, I've practiced psychotherapy for over 20 years and invite you to explore more about my approach here. If you find that you're interested in working together, please send an email. Perhaps you're reaching out because life's stressors have become overwhelming, relationships are challenging, or symptoms are too intense to handle alone. I specialize in depth-oriented therapy for adults facing personal, professional, or family challenges. I also support those who feel generally resilient and successful but are navigating significant stress.
I specialize in a broad spectrum of psychological issues including anxiety, stress, depression, relationship complexities, codependency, narcissism, parenting, grief, post-partum challenges, self-esteem, bipolar symptoms, anger, and trauma.
Accepting new clients – Welcome, I've practiced psychotherapy for over 20 years and invite you to explore more about my approach here. If you find that you're interested in working together, please send an email. Perhaps you're reaching out because life's stressors have become overwhelming, relationships are challenging, or symptoms are too intense to handle alone. I specialize in depth-oriented therapy for adults facing personal, professional, or family challenges. I also support those who feel generally resilient and successful but are navigating significant stress.
View
Photo of Nancy Recalde, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bandera County, TX
Nancy Recalde
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78249
My specialty is mood disorders, depression, anxiety, bipolar and trauma.
I believe that we are created with potential for balance and harmony, however, life is not always easy, we may struggle at times to reach this balance. When we get "stuck" or face difficult challenges, we must first identify which areas of life need adjusting or strengthening, and then, we set out to make the necessary changes. Whether it is physical, emotional, spiritual or mental unbalance, we can positively impact our lives by starting to work in one area, and, since they are all connected, the rest will follow. The mind-body connection is undeniable, research and science favor an integrated approach to behavioral health.
My specialty is mood disorders, depression, anxiety, bipolar and trauma.
I believe that we are created with potential for balance and harmony, however, life is not always easy, we may struggle at times to reach this balance. When we get "stuck" or face difficult challenges, we must first identify which areas of life need adjusting or strengthening, and then, we set out to make the necessary changes. Whether it is physical, emotional, spiritual or mental unbalance, we can positively impact our lives by starting to work in one area, and, since they are all connected, the rest will follow. The mind-body connection is undeniable, research and science favor an integrated approach to behavioral health.
(833) 721-1255 View (833) 721-1255
Photo of Anne Taylor Kitts, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bandera County, TX
Anne Taylor Kitts
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78759  (Online Only)
With over 30 years of experience, I have developed an expertise in substance abuse, depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, borderline personality disorders and high functioning autism spectrum disorder.
Do you want a therapist that goes against the norm? Do you want to be challenged while celebrating the changes you are making in your life? Are you interested in looking at your concerns from a different perspective? I can help you identify your roadblocks as you move in the direction to become the person you want to be.
With over 30 years of experience, I have developed an expertise in substance abuse, depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, borderline personality disorders and high functioning autism spectrum disorder.
Do you want a therapist that goes against the norm? Do you want to be challenged while celebrating the changes you are making in your life? Are you interested in looking at your concerns from a different perspective? I can help you identify your roadblocks as you move in the direction to become the person you want to be.
(832) 621-4326 View (832) 621-4326
Photo of Sandra Villarreal, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bandera County, TX
Sandra Villarreal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78233
Hello beautiful people and thank you for visiting my page. I would like to share with you a bit about myself. I am a bilingual Hispanic professional that has over 20 years of experience in social work, working with children in various settings primarily in school systems and in the juvenile justice system. I am currently embarking into a new journey of private practice. I have worked in the past with children and families on various mental health disorders such as Depression, Generalized Anxiety, and Bipolar to name a few. I have worked with individuals and with families doing solution focus and cognitive behavioral therapy.
Hello beautiful people and thank you for visiting my page. I would like to share with you a bit about myself. I am a bilingual Hispanic professional that has over 20 years of experience in social work, working with children in various settings primarily in school systems and in the juvenile justice system. I am currently embarking into a new journey of private practice. I have worked in the past with children and families on various mental health disorders such as Depression, Generalized Anxiety, and Bipolar to name a few. I have worked with individuals and with families doing solution focus and cognitive behavioral therapy.
(830) 402-4181 View (830) 402-4181

See more therapy options for Bandera County

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.