Photo of Andrea Perry, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bonham, TX
Andrea Perry
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Bonham, TX 75418
Thank you for your interest in my psychological services. My educational background includes a Masters degree in Professional Counseling, and a Doctorate (PhD) in Counselor Education and Supervision. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Paris, Texas with 10 years of experience practicing. I work with clients who are dealing with a wide range of concerns including Grief, Crisis Intervention, Trauma & Serious Illness, PTSD, Depression, Anxiety/Panic, Schizophrenia, OCD, Bipolar Disorder, Personality Disorders, family of origin concerns & exploration, & many other psychological & behavioral challenges.
Thank you for your interest in my psychological services. My educational background includes a Masters degree in Professional Counseling, and a Doctorate (PhD) in Counselor Education and Supervision. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Paris, Texas with 10 years of experience practicing. I work with clients who are dealing with a wide range of concerns including Grief, Crisis Intervention, Trauma & Serious Illness, PTSD, Depression, Anxiety/Panic, Schizophrenia, OCD, Bipolar Disorder, Personality Disorders, family of origin concerns & exploration, & many other psychological & behavioral challenges.
(430) 209-3335 View (430) 209-3335

Online Therapists

Photo of Zen Counseling & Wellness, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Bonham, TX
Zen Counseling & Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPC-A, LCDC, NCC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75204
Greetings! I am Clara, and I am deeply committed to aiding others and derive satisfaction from providing something of value that enhances your existence. I assist people in overcoming daily and life challenges, including but not limited to anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, grief, LGBTQ issues, life transitions, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), substance use disorder (addiction), and trauma. I support the promotion of mental health, which includes psychological, emotional, social, and wellness dimensions, in order to assist people in improving their overall well-being.
Greetings! I am Clara, and I am deeply committed to aiding others and derive satisfaction from providing something of value that enhances your existence. I assist people in overcoming daily and life challenges, including but not limited to anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, grief, LGBTQ issues, life transitions, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), substance use disorder (addiction), and trauma. I support the promotion of mental health, which includes psychological, emotional, social, and wellness dimensions, in order to assist people in improving their overall well-being.
(972) 630-9688 View (972) 630-9688
Photo of Zeeshan Hussain, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Bonham, TX
Zeeshan Hussain
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75071
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate under the supervision of Laurie Todd, LPC-S in the state of Texas. I hold a MA in Counseling Psychology from Texas Woman’s University, where I gained specialization in various treatment modalities. I have experience working with clients who presented with symptoms of depression, anxiety, bipolar and personality disorders, life adjustment stressors, trauma, and more.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate under the supervision of Laurie Todd, LPC-S in the state of Texas. I hold a MA in Counseling Psychology from Texas Woman’s University, where I gained specialization in various treatment modalities. I have experience working with clients who presented with symptoms of depression, anxiety, bipolar and personality disorders, life adjustment stressors, trauma, and more.
(972) 449-4151 View (972) 449-4151
Photo of Hope In Motion, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bonham, TX
Hope In Motion, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CCATP
Verified Verified
Anna, TX 75409  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas. I received my B.S in Clinical/Applied Psychology and my M.S in Clinical/Applied Psychology from Texas A&M University-Commerce. Additionally, I am a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional (CCATP). Throughout my career, I have had experience working with adolescents (16+) and young adults who have depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, gender/identity struggles, and life adjustment stressors.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas. I received my B.S in Clinical/Applied Psychology and my M.S in Clinical/Applied Psychology from Texas A&M University-Commerce. Additionally, I am a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional (CCATP). Throughout my career, I have had experience working with adolescents (16+) and young adults who have depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, gender/identity struggles, and life adjustment stressors.
(214) 865-7553 View (214) 865-7553
Photo of Landry Therapy Group - Rockwall, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bonham, TX
Landry Therapy Group - Rockwall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rockwall, TX 75032
We offer treatment services for marital/couple, anxiety, depression, PTSD, self-injury, suicidal ideation/attempt, bipolar disorder, lesbian, gay, bi-sexual, transgender issues, & general life stresses & stressors.
*TAKING NEW CLIENTS* Our goal as therapists is to form a bond of trust and commitment with our clients. With the proper support and guidance in their lives, we believe people have an inherent ability to persevere through any struggle with which they are confronted. Jerianne specializes in working with adults, individuals, couples, families, depression self harm/suicidal ideation, and LGBTQ. We help clients cope with life's daily struggles and/or issues resulting from trauma and conflict and to cultivate a healthier style of living to ensure future well-being.
We offer treatment services for marital/couple, anxiety, depression, PTSD, self-injury, suicidal ideation/attempt, bipolar disorder, lesbian, gay, bi-sexual, transgender issues, & general life stresses & stressors.
*TAKING NEW CLIENTS* Our goal as therapists is to form a bond of trust and commitment with our clients. With the proper support and guidance in their lives, we believe people have an inherent ability to persevere through any struggle with which they are confronted. Jerianne specializes in working with adults, individuals, couples, families, depression self harm/suicidal ideation, and LGBTQ. We help clients cope with life's daily struggles and/or issues resulting from trauma and conflict and to cultivate a healthier style of living to ensure future well-being.
(469) 423-8596 View (469) 423-8596
Photo of Lindsey Grela, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bonham, TX
Lindsey Grela
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Little Elm, TX 75068
Lindsey has experience working in a domestic violence outreach center, a community health crisis center, and a behavioral day treatment program for children and adolescents. As a part of her experience, Lindsey has worked with children and adults struggling with a variety of concerns, including, but not limited to: Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Abuse, Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar disorder, Grief, Relationship Concerns, and Personal Identity.
Lindsey has experience working in a domestic violence outreach center, a community health crisis center, and a behavioral day treatment program for children and adolescents. As a part of her experience, Lindsey has worked with children and adults struggling with a variety of concerns, including, but not limited to: Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Abuse, Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar disorder, Grief, Relationship Concerns, and Personal Identity.
(214) 225-2751 View (214) 225-2751
Photo of Don Hays PhD, LPC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bonham, TX
Don Hays PhD, LPC
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75230
I am a licensed counselor and marriage and family therapist with 34 years experience and am equally skilled in dealing with individuals and couples. The problems I deal with most commonly are anxiety, depression, panic attacks, bipolar disorder, individual growth, midlife issues, relationship problems, anger management, conflict negotiation skills, divorce adjustment, blended families and parenting issues. I provide Christian counseling if requested. When working with couples I use John Gottman's research based model for marriage counseling coupled with key concepts of Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)
I am a licensed counselor and marriage and family therapist with 34 years experience and am equally skilled in dealing with individuals and couples. The problems I deal with most commonly are anxiety, depression, panic attacks, bipolar disorder, individual growth, midlife issues, relationship problems, anger management, conflict negotiation skills, divorce adjustment, blended families and parenting issues. I provide Christian counseling if requested. When working with couples I use John Gottman's research based model for marriage counseling coupled with key concepts of Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)
(469) 253-7227 View (469) 253-7227
Photo of Minta Johnson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bonham, TX
Minta Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frisco, TX 75034
Life can be stressful, I understand this. One of the first steps in reaching your goals is choosing a therapist whom you can trust. I provide a safe, confidential and nurturing atmosphere for individuals diagnosed with bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, psychosis, personality disorders and provide marital and family therapy. I have been employed in the field for over 20 years. I am currently accepting new clients and accept most major medical insurance. I offer a structured and trouble free resolution to the help that you are seeking.
Life can be stressful, I understand this. One of the first steps in reaching your goals is choosing a therapist whom you can trust. I provide a safe, confidential and nurturing atmosphere for individuals diagnosed with bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, psychosis, personality disorders and provide marital and family therapy. I have been employed in the field for over 20 years. I am currently accepting new clients and accept most major medical insurance. I offer a structured and trouble free resolution to the help that you are seeking.
(214) 256-4137 View (214) 256-4137
Photo of Elite Style Counseling , Licensed Professional Counselor in Bonham, TX
Elite Style Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
Mansfield, TX 76063
I am passionate, motivated, and interested in happy others. I am ex-military, an ex-dual military, and a dependent wife with children. I have experience with helping with military issues, depression, parenting issues, marriage counseling, individual sessions, anxiety, grief, trauma, drug abuse, PTSD, bipolar, borderline personality, and other mental health disorders. I am doing Zoom and telecounseling at the time. This means I can serve all of Texas via telecounseling not just Mansfield. https://www.amazon.com/s?k=barbara+smith-Jordan&crid=YTT9FORJBQRC&sprefix=barbara+smith-jordan%2Caps%2C306&ref=nb_sb_noss
I am passionate, motivated, and interested in happy others. I am ex-military, an ex-dual military, and a dependent wife with children. I have experience with helping with military issues, depression, parenting issues, marriage counseling, individual sessions, anxiety, grief, trauma, drug abuse, PTSD, bipolar, borderline personality, and other mental health disorders. I am doing Zoom and telecounseling at the time. This means I can serve all of Texas via telecounseling not just Mansfield. https://www.amazon.com/s?k=barbara+smith-Jordan&crid=YTT9FORJBQRC&sprefix=barbara+smith-jordan%2Caps%2C306&ref=nb_sb_noss
(682) 243-8210 View (682) 243-8210
Photo of Nicholas Woods, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bonham, TX
Nicholas Woods
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mansfield, TX 76063
I have experience with ages 16 and older and issues pertaining to trauma, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, psychosis, and autism.
I want to create a safe and non-judgmental space to support you to confront the issues holding you back from the experiences you wish for. My goal is not to tell you how to change your life, but to empower you to make realistic and worthwhile changes that can lead to a more satisfying and enjoyable lifestyle. Seeking therapy does not make you weak or a failure, rather it shows that you are willing to invest in yourself the time it takes to get you closer to what you seek. I don’t have the answers to all of life’s questions but I promise that I will support you unconditionally and professionally.
I have experience with ages 16 and older and issues pertaining to trauma, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, psychosis, and autism.
I want to create a safe and non-judgmental space to support you to confront the issues holding you back from the experiences you wish for. My goal is not to tell you how to change your life, but to empower you to make realistic and worthwhile changes that can lead to a more satisfying and enjoyable lifestyle. Seeking therapy does not make you weak or a failure, rather it shows that you are willing to invest in yourself the time it takes to get you closer to what you seek. I don’t have the answers to all of life’s questions but I promise that I will support you unconditionally and professionally.
(682) 936-1618 View (682) 936-1618
Photo of Kristina McCray, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bonham, TX
Kristina McCray
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LSSP
Verified Verified
Richardson, TX 75082
Kristina McCray is a licensed professional counselor with over 15 years of experience working as a mental health professional. She has experience with working with people of all ages, cultures, and backgrounds on a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, OCD, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, Autism Spectrum Disorder, personality disorders, substance addiction, identity problems, self-esteem problems, domestic, sexual abuse, ADHD, etc. Kristina also has helped many people who have experienced physical and emotional trauma. Moreover, Kristina is a School Psychologist.
Kristina McCray is a licensed professional counselor with over 15 years of experience working as a mental health professional. She has experience with working with people of all ages, cultures, and backgrounds on a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, OCD, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, Autism Spectrum Disorder, personality disorders, substance addiction, identity problems, self-esteem problems, domestic, sexual abuse, ADHD, etc. Kristina also has helped many people who have experienced physical and emotional trauma. Moreover, Kristina is a School Psychologist.
(512) 883-7116 View (512) 883-7116
Photo of Jamie Ann Jaubert, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bonham, TX
Jamie Ann Jaubert
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75023
I am highly skilled in treating mood & anxiety disorders including depression & bipolar disorders, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, OCD, PTSD, & 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 & anxiety disorders including depression & bipolar disorders, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, OCD, PTSD, & 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.
(214) 919-7869 View (214) 919-7869
Photo of Randi Wright, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bonham, TX
Randi Wright
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
Forney, TX 75126  (Online Only)
Among my areas of practice and experience are Depression, Anxiety, Relaxation, Bipolar disorder, Family issues, Grief and Loss, Anger Management, Relationship Stress, and Self Esteem.
Among my areas of practice and experience are Depression, Anxiety, Relaxation, Bipolar disorder, Family issues, Grief and Loss, Anger Management, Relationship Stress, and Self Esteem.
(469) 746-0235 View (469) 746-0235
Photo of Chris Epstein, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bonham, TX
Chris Epstein
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75230
I have special interests in working with those struggling with anxiety and depressive disorders, dual diagnosis, spiritual issues, substance use disorders, boundary issues, conflict resolution, interpersonal skill-building and bipolar disorder.
Being a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas for many years, I have enjoyed a type of therapy that allows an individual to find freedom through acceptance of their issues rather than running from the reality of their existence. As we come to understand our past and how it has shaped us, we can then begin the practice of choosing differently for ourselves in the present and for our future. This search is a sacred process where therapist and client join together, rather than a therapy done 'to' you as a client. I would like to join in that process with you!
I have special interests in working with those struggling with anxiety and depressive disorders, dual diagnosis, spiritual issues, substance use disorders, boundary issues, conflict resolution, interpersonal skill-building and bipolar disorder.
Being a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas for many years, I have enjoyed a type of therapy that allows an individual to find freedom through acceptance of their issues rather than running from the reality of their existence. As we come to understand our past and how it has shaped us, we can then begin the practice of choosing differently for ourselves in the present and for our future. This search is a sacred process where therapist and client join together, rather than a therapy done 'to' you as a client. I would like to join in that process with you!
(469) 208-3861 View (469) 208-3861
Photo of Floyd Russell Crites Jr., Counselor in Bonham, TX
Floyd Russell Crites Jr.
Counselor, LPC, LMFT, LSSP, NBCCH, CPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Coppell, TX 75019
I also test for other psychological issues such as depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder.
If you're looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation, need testing to help determine how to help you or your child handle life, school or work more effectively, or if you want to improve your life situation or relationship I look forward to working with you. I am a solution focused therapist who enjoys working with clients as they journey through hard times. This is especially true in regards to marriage or relationship issues. Helping save or better a relationship is one of the greatest benefits I get from doing therapy
I also test for other psychological issues such as depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder.
If you're looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation, need testing to help determine how to help you or your child handle life, school or work more effectively, or if you want to improve your life situation or relationship I look forward to working with you. I am a solution focused therapist who enjoys working with clients as they journey through hard times. This is especially true in regards to marriage or relationship issues. Helping save or better a relationship is one of the greatest benefits I get from doing therapy
(972) 295-9866 View (972) 295-9866
Photo of Dr. Jonathan Wilson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bonham, TX
Dr. Jonathan Wilson
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75206  (Online Only)
The majority of my clients are looking for a therapist to help them work through a difficult stage of life, and I consider it an honor to be given that opportunity. I will provide a thorough assessment for you in our first session and set up a treatment plan together. I specialize in treating relationships, depression, anxiety, sexual disorders, trauma, and PTSD. I also have a great deal of experience working with those with Bipolar Disorder, personality disorders, sleep disorders, self-harm, and sex and pornography addiction. As an ally of the LGBT+ community, I work with individuals in any type of relationship.
The majority of my clients are looking for a therapist to help them work through a difficult stage of life, and I consider it an honor to be given that opportunity. I will provide a thorough assessment for you in our first session and set up a treatment plan together. I specialize in treating relationships, depression, anxiety, sexual disorders, trauma, and PTSD. I also have a great deal of experience working with those with Bipolar Disorder, personality disorders, sleep disorders, self-harm, and sex and pornography addiction. As an ally of the LGBT+ community, I work with individuals in any type of relationship.
(617) 766-1038 View (617) 766-1038
Photo of Francine Esquiliano, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bonham, TX
Francine Esquiliano
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Flower Mound, TX 75028
Through the use of these skillsI am able to treat adjustment disorder, borderline personality, depression, anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Major Depressive disorder, personality disorders, schizophrenia, general anxiety disorder, and substance use disorders.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Texas. I earned my Master’s degree in Counseling at Southwestern Adventist University while working at the local mental health authority Pecan Valley Centers in Cleburne, TX. I worked as a case manager, LPC-Intern, and an on-call crisis responder. I was trained using Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) among many other trainings. I worked at The Johnson County Children's Advocacy Center as a counselor where I was fully trained in Trauma Focused – Cognitive Behavior Therapy (TFCBT) and Play Therapy. At the advocacy center I worked primarily with youths who suffer from trauma.
Through the use of these skillsI am able to treat adjustment disorder, borderline personality, depression, anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Major Depressive disorder, personality disorders, schizophrenia, general anxiety disorder, and substance use disorders.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Texas. I earned my Master’s degree in Counseling at Southwestern Adventist University while working at the local mental health authority Pecan Valley Centers in Cleburne, TX. I worked as a case manager, LPC-Intern, and an on-call crisis responder. I was trained using Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) among many other trainings. I worked at The Johnson County Children's Advocacy Center as a counselor where I was fully trained in Trauma Focused – Cognitive Behavior Therapy (TFCBT) and Play Therapy. At the advocacy center I worked primarily with youths who suffer from trauma.
(817) 662-4590 View (817) 662-4590
Photo of Gayle Davis, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bonham, TX
Gayle Davis, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Irving, TX 75062
Specialties include depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, PTSD, LGBT, and relationship issues.
Having over 30 years of experience as a psychotherapist, I have found that everyone has within themselves the internal resources for self-healing. My goal as a therapist is to assist you in accessing and further developing those resources. I will help you work through your immediate problems and concerns as well as assist you in addressing past experiences that may be influencing your current emotional state, behaviors and relationships. I work with adults 20 years and older.
Specialties include depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, PTSD, LGBT, and relationship issues.
Having over 30 years of experience as a psychotherapist, I have found that everyone has within themselves the internal resources for self-healing. My goal as a therapist is to assist you in accessing and further developing those resources. I will help you work through your immediate problems and concerns as well as assist you in addressing past experiences that may be influencing your current emotional state, behaviors and relationships. I work with adults 20 years and older.
(214) 307-8781 View (214) 307-8781
Photo of Nancy Lownds, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bonham, TX
Nancy Lownds
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070
As a licensed clinical social worker in Texas, I have 20 years of experience that includes working in Inpatient Behavioral Health Hospitals specializing in trauma and substance use disorders, and Outpatient Programs in trauma and addiction. I have worked with co-occurring disorders, such as depression, bipolar disorders, anxiety, PTSD and addiction. I grew up in Atlanta, Georgia and attended the University of Georgia for my BSW degree and The University of Texas in Arlington for my MSSW degree. I am trained in CBT, DBT, Family Systems, Trauma Model Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy.
As a licensed clinical social worker in Texas, I have 20 years of experience that includes working in Inpatient Behavioral Health Hospitals specializing in trauma and substance use disorders, and Outpatient Programs in trauma and addiction. I have worked with co-occurring disorders, such as depression, bipolar disorders, anxiety, PTSD and addiction. I grew up in Atlanta, Georgia and attended the University of Georgia for my BSW degree and The University of Texas in Arlington for my MSSW degree. I am trained in CBT, DBT, Family Systems, Trauma Model Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy.
(972) 945-0438 View (972) 945-0438
Photo of Hati Munetsi, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bonham, TX
Hati Munetsi
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR
Verified Verified
Garland, TX 75043
I am an Art Psychotherapist/LPC who services clients from ages 5 and up, presenting with a variety of diagnoses or needs. My experience has been working with eating disorder latency and teen patients, trauma patients, gender identity, and exposure to sexual abuse and bipolar disorder clients.
I am an Art Psychotherapist/LPC who services clients from ages 5 and up, presenting with a variety of diagnoses or needs. My experience has been working with eating disorder latency and teen patients, trauma patients, gender identity, and exposure to sexual abuse and bipolar disorder clients.
(214) 730-5634 View (214) 730-5634

See more therapy options for Bonham

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.