Photo of Kimberly Mizerik, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bosque County, TX
Kimberly Mizerik
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Valley Mills, TX 76689
Now offering Therapy Intensive sessions which are an accelerated form of therapy that allows deeper healing in a shorter amount of time. Are stressful events and relationships making it impossible for you to relax? Are anxiety and depression making it hard to focus on the important things in your life and preventing you from making positive changes? There is hope and help available. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with 12 years of experience as a psychotherapist in private practice and in Community Counseling. I have helped patients in their recovery from depression, anxiety, unstable relationships, PTSD, OCD, and ADHD.
Now offering Therapy Intensive sessions which are an accelerated form of therapy that allows deeper healing in a shorter amount of time. Are stressful events and relationships making it impossible for you to relax? Are anxiety and depression making it hard to focus on the important things in your life and preventing you from making positive changes? There is hope and help available. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with 12 years of experience as a psychotherapist in private practice and in Community Counseling. I have helped patients in their recovery from depression, anxiety, unstable relationships, PTSD, OCD, and ADHD.
(254) 853-5079 View (254) 853-5079

Online Therapists

Photo of Stacey Lavoro Rexrode, Psychologist in Bosque County, TX
Stacey Lavoro Rexrode
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Cedar Park, TX 78613  (Online Only)
I offer individual and group psychotherapy, psychological assessments, and tele-psychology interventions for trauma (PTSD), mood disorders (Depression, Bipolar Disorder), anxiety disorders (OCD, Social phobia, Panic Disorder), anger management and self-esteem programs, programs for Insomnia and sleep disorders, and parenting help.
I take pride in my ability to relate to a large population, and I enjoy working with clients 12 years of age and up. My clients over the years have had: depression, anxiety disorders, adjustment difficulty, as well as teenagers with a variety of school, peer, family, and self-esteem issues. I work best with clients who are motivated for change, but also understand that teenagers often come to therapy at the urging of parents and may be resistant at first. I welcome women's issues, veteran's issues, LGBTQ issues, those who are just "stuck", going through a life transition or folks who have been in and out of therapy for years.
I offer individual and group psychotherapy, psychological assessments, and tele-psychology interventions for trauma (PTSD), mood disorders (Depression, Bipolar Disorder), anxiety disorders (OCD, Social phobia, Panic Disorder), anger management and self-esteem programs, programs for Insomnia and sleep disorders, and parenting help.
I take pride in my ability to relate to a large population, and I enjoy working with clients 12 years of age and up. My clients over the years have had: depression, anxiety disorders, adjustment difficulty, as well as teenagers with a variety of school, peer, family, and self-esteem issues. I work best with clients who are motivated for change, but also understand that teenagers often come to therapy at the urging of parents and may be resistant at first. I welcome women's issues, veteran's issues, LGBTQ issues, those who are just "stuck", going through a life transition or folks who have been in and out of therapy for years.
(512) 886-5530 View (512) 886-5530
Photo of Desiree Frazier, Psychologist in Bosque County, TX
Desiree Frazier
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Flower Mound, TX 75022
I am a licensed psychologist who specializes in treatment for children and adolescents (including young adults up to age 25) and their families, especially regarding trauma, self-harm, suicidal ideation, and mood disorders. I have an extensive history of working with issues related to history of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, OCD, and issues related to abuse, death, and divorce. My primary objective is to improve family functioning and overall quality of life. I am passionate about helping individuals and families work toward their vision of cohesion and happiness.
I am a licensed psychologist who specializes in treatment for children and adolescents (including young adults up to age 25) and their families, especially regarding trauma, self-harm, suicidal ideation, and mood disorders. I have an extensive history of working with issues related to history of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, OCD, and issues related to abuse, death, and divorce. My primary objective is to improve family functioning and overall quality of life. I am passionate about helping individuals and families work toward their vision of cohesion and happiness.
(972) 815-1034 View (972) 815-1034
Photo of Elite Style Counseling , Licensed Professional Counselor in Bosque County, 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 Landry Therapy Group PLLC - Arlington, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bosque County, TX
Landry Therapy Group PLLC - Arlington
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, TX 76012  (Online Only)
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 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 struggles with which they are confronted. Lisa works with adults, individuals, couples, and LGBTQ+. Our other 8 therapists work with children, adolescents, adults, and families. We help clients with anxiety, depression, self harm/suicidal ideation, trauma, addiction, issues resulting from trauma, and life's daily struggles. We would like to help you foster a healthier style of living to ensure your 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 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 struggles with which they are confronted. Lisa works with adults, individuals, couples, and LGBTQ+. Our other 8 therapists work with children, adolescents, adults, and families. We help clients with anxiety, depression, self harm/suicidal ideation, trauma, addiction, issues resulting from trauma, and life's daily struggles. We would like to help you foster a healthier style of living to ensure your future well-being.
(214) 234-9157 View (214) 234-9157
Photo of Floyd Russell Crites Jr., Counselor in Bosque County, TX
Floyd Russell Crites Jr.
Counselor, LPC, LMFT, LSSP, NBCCH, CPC
Verified Verified
Garland, TX 75048
, depression, anxiety, 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 helping clients as they journey through hard times. This is especially true with Anxiety, ADHD issues and marriage or relationship issues. Helping save or better a relationship is one of the greatest benefits I get from doing therapy .
, depression, anxiety, 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 helping clients as they journey through hard times. This is especially true with Anxiety, ADHD issues and marriage or relationship issues. Helping save or better a relationship is one of the greatest benefits I get from doing therapy .
(972) 853-8828 View (972) 853-8828
Photo of Summer Rose, Psychologist in Bosque County, TX
Summer Rose
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75219  (Online Only)
Hi there! Thank you for considering my practice. I have extensive expertise in the following areas: depression/bipolar disorders, anxiety, trauma, parenting issues, behavioral disorders, family discord and child/adolescent issues (though I work with lots of adults too). My modality is eclectic; however, my approach is tailored to what will work for your unique situation. I have expertise in the area of psychological assessment. I conduct assessments weekly for ADHD, learning differences, behavior disorders, etc. I am a frequent speaker in the DFW metroplex and have been featured as an expert panelist on NPR. But above all, I privilege my clients and their voice.
Hi there! Thank you for considering my practice. I have extensive expertise in the following areas: depression/bipolar disorders, anxiety, trauma, parenting issues, behavioral disorders, family discord and child/adolescent issues (though I work with lots of adults too). My modality is eclectic; however, my approach is tailored to what will work for your unique situation. I have expertise in the area of psychological assessment. I conduct assessments weekly for ADHD, learning differences, behavior disorders, etc. I am a frequent speaker in the DFW metroplex and have been featured as an expert panelist on NPR. But above all, I privilege my clients and their voice.
(281) 609-7482 View (281) 609-7482
Photo of Kelleigh Head, Psychologist in Bosque County, TX
Kelleigh Head
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Richardson, TX 75081
Casual, relaxed, & approachable therapeutic atmosphere to help clients with any issue they wish to discuss. Dr. Kelleigh Head (pronounced "Kelly") is a Psychologist in Richardson & Prosper TX. Since 2007, she has worked with a variety of clients and issues (anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and just life in general). She can utilize different orientations and styles as determined by need of client. Her primary focus is conducting psychological evaluations. These assessments are comprehensive and utilize industry standard measures.
Casual, relaxed, & approachable therapeutic atmosphere to help clients with any issue they wish to discuss. Dr. Kelleigh Head (pronounced "Kelly") is a Psychologist in Richardson & Prosper TX. Since 2007, she has worked with a variety of clients and issues (anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and just life in general). She can utilize different orientations and styles as determined by need of client. Her primary focus is conducting psychological evaluations. These assessments are comprehensive and utilize industry standard measures.
(469) 557-8183 View (469) 557-8183
Photo of Mathias Ngwa, Psychological Associate in Bosque County, TX
Mathias Ngwa
Psychological Associate, PsyD, ABSNP, LPA, ICP
Verified Verified
Arlington, TX 76006
At home video-tele-assessment for anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, psychotic and personality.
Are you looking for a psychological/neuropsychological evaluation and/or a medication free treatment for attention, sleep, migraine, anxiety, depression, stress, PTSD, headache, or traumatic brain injury problems? Are you a struggling learner seeking ways to improve performance at school, sports or work? Do you have a history of autism spectrum, ADD/ADHD, fetal alcohol syndrome, language and communication problems, Down’s Syndrome, epilepsy, traumatic brain injury, concussion, stroke, memory difficulties, chronic illness, motor and balance coordination, developmental delay, Parkinson’s, or multiple sclerosis?
At home video-tele-assessment for anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, psychotic and personality.
Are you looking for a psychological/neuropsychological evaluation and/or a medication free treatment for attention, sleep, migraine, anxiety, depression, stress, PTSD, headache, or traumatic brain injury problems? Are you a struggling learner seeking ways to improve performance at school, sports or work? Do you have a history of autism spectrum, ADD/ADHD, fetal alcohol syndrome, language and communication problems, Down’s Syndrome, epilepsy, traumatic brain injury, concussion, stroke, memory difficulties, chronic illness, motor and balance coordination, developmental delay, Parkinson’s, or multiple sclerosis?
(682) 204-6546 View (682) 204-6546
Photo of Floyd Russell Crites Jr., Counselor in Bosque County, 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 Gloria Ester Gonzalez, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bosque County, TX
Gloria Ester Gonzalez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75209
There is not a specific type of therapeutic style or approach that works for everyone: age, ethnicity, all of this may play a part into stressors and how we cope with them. Therefore, the services are built around the individuals or family needs, focusing on strengths and values. I believe there is nothing we can’t overcome and the first step is seeking the help. Therapy is about acquiring the tools we need when faced with adversity. If you’re reading this, then you’re already on your way to change. Life is full of challenges, struggles, and stressful situations. WE have all been there before.
There is not a specific type of therapeutic style or approach that works for everyone: age, ethnicity, all of this may play a part into stressors and how we cope with them. Therefore, the services are built around the individuals or family needs, focusing on strengths and values. I believe there is nothing we can’t overcome and the first step is seeking the help. Therapy is about acquiring the tools we need when faced with adversity. If you’re reading this, then you’re already on your way to change. Life is full of challenges, struggles, and stressful situations. WE have all been there before.
(325) 221-2847 View (325) 221-2847
Photo of Kurt W. Billups, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bosque County, TX
Kurt W. Billups
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MPC, LPC, BCPC, LPHA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Worth, TX 76133  (Online Only)
People should live happier, healthier lives. That is what all people want and deserve. My focus is on helping people achieve ALL of their goals. Everyone goes through tough times. Some people go through them on their own, but sometimes it takes a professional, unbiased perspective to help. People are the result of both nature (inherited traits) and nurture (environment) which form lenses through which we perceive the world. Through life experience, lenses can become scratched or cloudy. Bring the drive to improve and I will provide the experience, empathy, and knowledge. Let's make them clear again, together, as a team!
People should live happier, healthier lives. That is what all people want and deserve. My focus is on helping people achieve ALL of their goals. Everyone goes through tough times. Some people go through them on their own, but sometimes it takes a professional, unbiased perspective to help. People are the result of both nature (inherited traits) and nurture (environment) which form lenses through which we perceive the world. Through life experience, lenses can become scratched or cloudy. Bring the drive to improve and I will provide the experience, empathy, and knowledge. Let's make them clear again, together, as a team!
(682) 334-8634 View (682) 334-8634
Photo of Leslie M Faris, Psychologist in Bosque County, TX
Leslie M Faris
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76244
In everyone’s life there comes a time when struggles seem overwhelming. During times like these, it takes a strong person to ask for help. If you are reading this, chances are you are at that point, and I commend you for that inner strength that is looking for resolution. I’d like to help you find that resolution. As a licensed clinical psychologist, I have extensive training and experience in helping children, adolescents and adults with a variety of issues. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety and stress, depression and mood disorders, and health-related issues
In everyone’s life there comes a time when struggles seem overwhelming. During times like these, it takes a strong person to ask for help. If you are reading this, chances are you are at that point, and I commend you for that inner strength that is looking for resolution. I’d like to help you find that resolution. As a licensed clinical psychologist, I have extensive training and experience in helping children, adolescents and adults with a variety of issues. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety and stress, depression and mood disorders, and health-related issues
(682) 334-8932 View (682) 334-8932
Photo of North Star Psychology, PLLC, Psychologist in Bosque County, TX
North Star Psychology, PLLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Irving, TX 75038
At North Star Psychology, PLLC, our goal is to help children, adolescents, and adults of all ages achieve positive changes and improve their daily lives and relationships with others. We specialize in play, individual, and family therapy/counseling, psychological and educational testing, and parenting support and skill development.
At North Star Psychology, PLLC, our goal is to help children, adolescents, and adults of all ages achieve positive changes and improve their daily lives and relationships with others. We specialize in play, individual, and family therapy/counseling, psychological and educational testing, and parenting support and skill development.
(214) 427-8691 View (214) 427-8691
Photo of Linda Doutre, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bosque County, TX
Linda Doutre
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, LMFT, LPC, CBT, ETT
Verified Verified
Arlington, TX 76013
I am a developmental therapist with over 30 years experience in psychotherapy and have extended training in Gestalt therapy, Bioenergetic Analysis ( a somatic relational therapy) and Emotional Transformational Therapy (ETT)therapy using different protocols of color and light), sound resonance healing with tuning forks; also couple and family therapy, diagnostic developmental testing/TOVA, and professional coaching for relationship issues, and professional development. In my years of practice, I have explored many different and effective ways of working with clients. I am Teletherapy certified and a certified life coach.
I am a developmental therapist with over 30 years experience in psychotherapy and have extended training in Gestalt therapy, Bioenergetic Analysis ( a somatic relational therapy) and Emotional Transformational Therapy (ETT)therapy using different protocols of color and light), sound resonance healing with tuning forks; also couple and family therapy, diagnostic developmental testing/TOVA, and professional coaching for relationship issues, and professional development. In my years of practice, I have explored many different and effective ways of working with clients. I am Teletherapy certified and a certified life coach.
(817) 803-5787 View (817) 803-5787
Photo of Donna Rial-Baker, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bosque County, TX
Donna Rial-Baker
Licensed Professional Counselor, DMin, MEd, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Forney, TX 75126
Dr. Rial-Baker is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Doctor of Ministry. She is a practical, interactive therapist who uses an array of therapeutic techniques. Her treatment approach is to provide support and practical feedback to help clients resolve current problems and long-standing patterns. She incorporates a blend of conventional, spiritual, and alternative approaches, drawing upon a variety of styles and techniques to incorporate what will be most helpful for each client. With sensitivity and compassion, she works with clients to help them to build upon their strengths to bring life and blessings into all that they experience.
Dr. Rial-Baker is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Doctor of Ministry. She is a practical, interactive therapist who uses an array of therapeutic techniques. Her treatment approach is to provide support and practical feedback to help clients resolve current problems and long-standing patterns. She incorporates a blend of conventional, spiritual, and alternative approaches, drawing upon a variety of styles and techniques to incorporate what will be most helpful for each client. With sensitivity and compassion, she works with clients to help them to build upon their strengths to bring life and blessings into all that they experience.
(469) 464-9940 View (469) 464-9940
Photo of Wellspring Behavioral Health, Psychologist in Bosque County, TX
Wellspring Behavioral Health
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
Cedar Park, TX 78613
At Wellspring Behavioral Health, we provide counseling, psychological and neuropsychological testing, including individual and family services for adults, adolescents, children, and families in Austin, Texas. We are a group of professionals working with clients addressing a broad range of concerns. Dr. McNeely leads the group and works with a general population. In addition to counseling, she specializes in psychological and neuropsychological evaluation and diagnostic services.
At Wellspring Behavioral Health, we provide counseling, psychological and neuropsychological testing, including individual and family services for adults, adolescents, children, and families in Austin, Texas. We are a group of professionals working with clients addressing a broad range of concerns. Dr. McNeely leads the group and works with a general population. In addition to counseling, she specializes in psychological and neuropsychological evaluation and diagnostic services.
(833) 529-8515 View (833) 529-8515
Photo of Camille Nance - Rajich @ Human Kind Wellness Counseling, LPC Associate in Bosque County, TX
Camille Nance - Rajich @ Human Kind Wellness Counseling
LPC Associate, MS, LPC-A
Verified Verified
Rockwall, TX 75032
Play is the language of children but we don't always know how to speak that language. Camille sees children using play as expressive language. Coming from A&M University, working alongside Dr. Bell in their clinical lab, Camille has countless experience in child development along with assessment expertise. She also worked with the forensic unit at Terrell State Hospital. Camille see adolescents, teens and adults but she specializes in working with women and moms experiencing domestic and relational dysfunction. She currently runs an afternoon group for teens. Call for a free consult.
Play is the language of children but we don't always know how to speak that language. Camille sees children using play as expressive language. Coming from A&M University, working alongside Dr. Bell in their clinical lab, Camille has countless experience in child development along with assessment expertise. She also worked with the forensic unit at Terrell State Hospital. Camille see adolescents, teens and adults but she specializes in working with women and moms experiencing domestic and relational dysfunction. She currently runs an afternoon group for teens. Call for a free consult.
(214) 214-4152 View (214) 214-4152
Photo of Reshaunda Strickland, Psychologist in Bosque County, TX
Reshaunda Strickland
Psychologist, PsyD, LPA, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Euless, TX 76040
I work under the motto, "The sun will rise and set regardless. What we choose to do with the light while its here is up to us..." I fully believe in journeying with my clients through treatment. I truly enjoy working with my clients on the variety of life's ups and downs. Generally, most of my work is with adults; however, I also see adolescents beginning at 16-years-old. Over the years, I have worked with depression, anxiety, trauma, and some of the more severe mental health problems. My other experience includes working with self-harm and suicidal behaviors, as well as behavior management.
I work under the motto, "The sun will rise and set regardless. What we choose to do with the light while its here is up to us..." I fully believe in journeying with my clients through treatment. I truly enjoy working with my clients on the variety of life's ups and downs. Generally, most of my work is with adults; however, I also see adolescents beginning at 16-years-old. Over the years, I have worked with depression, anxiety, trauma, and some of the more severe mental health problems. My other experience includes working with self-harm and suicidal behaviors, as well as behavior management.
(214) 761-6399 View (214) 761-6399
Photo of Valerie Reyna, Counselor in Bosque County, TX
Valerie Reyna
Counselor, MEd, LPC-S, RPT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Colleyville, TX 76034
I believe in meeting clients where they are at emotionally and helping them and their parents reach their goals. Through a positive relationship with my client I try to help them gain insight into their desire to belong and have significance. I continually work to create a supportive environment for children in order for the child to gain insight and understanding into their unique world. With insight the child and therapist can collaborate to reduce the child's current stressors possibly leading to problematic behaviors.
I believe in meeting clients where they are at emotionally and helping them and their parents reach their goals. Through a positive relationship with my client I try to help them gain insight into their desire to belong and have significance. I continually work to create a supportive environment for children in order for the child to gain insight and understanding into their unique world. With insight the child and therapist can collaborate to reduce the child's current stressors possibly leading to problematic behaviors.
(972) 503-4045 View (972) 503-4045

See more therapy options for Bosque 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.