Photo of Tammy Marek, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chambers County, TX
Tammy Marek
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Mont Belvieu, TX 77523
If you need help with divorce, grief, loss, bipolar, trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, decision making, stress mgt,anger issues,relationship issues, or if you are ready to make a life transition and need help.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by life's challenges? Are you struggling with self doubt, anxiety, sadness, loss or experiencing a life change? At times we all need help sorting out life's complexities. Many times, life changes can feel confusing or unbearable. You may feel alone and isolated, not good enough or afraid to make decisions as you navigate life. My role as a therapist is to serve as a guide to help you achieve personal growth, recognize your strengths and abilities and regain control of your life. Seeking to deal with passed trauma or abuse? I am an EMDR trained therapist. After 5:00pm availabile. Not seeing couples
If you need help with divorce, grief, loss, bipolar, trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, decision making, stress mgt,anger issues,relationship issues, or if you are ready to make a life transition and need help.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by life's challenges? Are you struggling with self doubt, anxiety, sadness, loss or experiencing a life change? At times we all need help sorting out life's complexities. Many times, life changes can feel confusing or unbearable. You may feel alone and isolated, not good enough or afraid to make decisions as you navigate life. My role as a therapist is to serve as a guide to help you achieve personal growth, recognize your strengths and abilities and regain control of your life. Seeking to deal with passed trauma or abuse? I am an EMDR trained therapist. After 5:00pm availabile. Not seeing couples
(936) 261-8408 View (936) 261-8408
Photo of Kendall Phillips, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chambers County, TX
Kendall Phillips
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baytown, TX 77523  (Online Only)
I take an eclectic approach to counseling for those from all walks of life. I am committed to providing safe, honest, and compassionate counseling in order to help you gain insight into your experiences and create a path for deeper healing. Understanding that every person is unique, my approach involves creating treatment that is specifically tailored to meet your individual needs. I work with ages 12 through adulthood. I can address issues such as anxiety, grief, trauma, depression, self-esteem, self-harm, adjustments and changes, life transitions, and many other experiences that may have an impact on a person's mental health.
I take an eclectic approach to counseling for those from all walks of life. I am committed to providing safe, honest, and compassionate counseling in order to help you gain insight into your experiences and create a path for deeper healing. Understanding that every person is unique, my approach involves creating treatment that is specifically tailored to meet your individual needs. I work with ages 12 through adulthood. I can address issues such as anxiety, grief, trauma, depression, self-esteem, self-harm, adjustments and changes, life transitions, and many other experiences that may have an impact on a person's mental health.
(281) 609-9269 View (281) 609-9269
Photo of Rebecca McCartney, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chambers County, TX
Rebecca McCartney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Baytown, TX 77523  (Online Only)
Do you struggle with anxiety that affects your daily life and your most important relationships? Do you feel overwhelmed and unsettled by all your responsibilities and pressure to measure up? Do you wonder if it’s possible to worry less and feel content? Now more than ever, women are struggling under the weight of their mental load. With increased expectations in our various roles, anxiety often results.
Do you struggle with anxiety that affects your daily life and your most important relationships? Do you feel overwhelmed and unsettled by all your responsibilities and pressure to measure up? Do you wonder if it’s possible to worry less and feel content? Now more than ever, women are struggling under the weight of their mental load. With increased expectations in our various roles, anxiety often results.
(281) 524-3778 View (281) 524-3778
Photo of Steve Christopherson, Counselor in Chambers County, TX
Steve Christopherson
Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Baytown, TX 77523
Well if you're reading this, something hurts. I have found that not everyone needs counseling, but everyone deserves it! It's a tough world out there and sometimes we just need that neutral third party perspective to gain some different insight and get some answers. I'm not much into a bunch of theory because I prefer to attack the presenting problem and go from there. I like giving tools and techniques to use to battle whatever is going on. I am a very "how to" therapist and don't spend time with small talk. Let's roll!
Well if you're reading this, something hurts. I have found that not everyone needs counseling, but everyone deserves it! It's a tough world out there and sometimes we just need that neutral third party perspective to gain some different insight and get some answers. I'm not much into a bunch of theory because I prefer to attack the presenting problem and go from there. I like giving tools and techniques to use to battle whatever is going on. I am a very "how to" therapist and don't spend time with small talk. Let's roll!
(281) 761-6470 View (281) 761-6470
Photo of Lifebulb Counseling & Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chambers County, TX
Lifebulb Counseling & Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mont Belvieu, TX 77580  (Online Only)
We're here to help you reach your therapy goals at Lifebulb! We’ll connect you with the best possible therapist for your unique goals, someone who genuinely cares about helping you. We’re all about making therapy enjoyable for both therapists and clients. Whether you prefer in-person sessions at our locations or online through telehealth, we've got you covered. Our team consists of highly trained and licensed clinicians who are passionate about the therapy process. Let's work together to achieve your goals!
We're here to help you reach your therapy goals at Lifebulb! We’ll connect you with the best possible therapist for your unique goals, someone who genuinely cares about helping you. We’re all about making therapy enjoyable for both therapists and clients. Whether you prefer in-person sessions at our locations or online through telehealth, we've got you covered. Our team consists of highly trained and licensed clinicians who are passionate about the therapy process. Let's work together to achieve your goals!
(281) 666-9353 View (281) 666-9353
Photo of Shannon R Campbell, Counselor in Chambers County, TX
Shannon R Campbell
Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Mont Belvieu, TX 77580
I have a M.S. in Marriage, Family, and Couple’s Counseling, with a concentration in Trauma and Crisis. I am a LPC that is passionate in working with adolescents, individuals, LGBTQ and couples in a variety of issues; anxiety, depression, relationship issues, infidelity, stress, PTSD, grief, domestic and sexual abuse. I believe in providing a safe and nonjudgmental space for my clients. My clients and I will work together on steps towards achieving the goals they set.
I have a M.S. in Marriage, Family, and Couple’s Counseling, with a concentration in Trauma and Crisis. I am a LPC that is passionate in working with adolescents, individuals, LGBTQ and couples in a variety of issues; anxiety, depression, relationship issues, infidelity, stress, PTSD, grief, domestic and sexual abuse. I believe in providing a safe and nonjudgmental space for my clients. My clients and I will work together on steps towards achieving the goals they set.
(936) 209-7477 View (936) 209-7477

Online Therapists

Photo of Dr. Cardona Mitchell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chambers County, TX
Dr. Cardona Mitchell
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77084  (Online Only)
Cardona Mitchell provide services for LGBT, Relationship issues, Grief, Intimacy-related issues, Sleeping disorders, Parenting issues, Anger management, Bipolar disorder, Coping with life changes, Compassion fatigue, and ADHD.
Dr. Cardona Mitchell is a licensed professional counselor in Texas with over 6 years of professional work experience. She offers a full menu of therapeutic services including psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and dialectical behavior therapy. Therapy services are provided to clients of all ages. Dr. Mitchell takes great pride in her counseling practice. She holds a doctorate in education, a master's in clinical mental health counseling, and is a board-certified counselor. She is a member of the American Counseling Association.
Cardona Mitchell provide services for LGBT, Relationship issues, Grief, Intimacy-related issues, Sleeping disorders, Parenting issues, Anger management, Bipolar disorder, Coping with life changes, Compassion fatigue, and ADHD.
Dr. Cardona Mitchell is a licensed professional counselor in Texas with over 6 years of professional work experience. She offers a full menu of therapeutic services including psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and dialectical behavior therapy. Therapy services are provided to clients of all ages. Dr. Mitchell takes great pride in her counseling practice. She holds a doctorate in education, a master's in clinical mental health counseling, and is a board-certified counselor. She is a member of the American Counseling Association.
(281) 916-3754 View (281) 916-3754
Photo of Lauren Ziff, Licensed Master Social Worker in Chambers County, TX
Lauren Ziff
Licensed Master Social Worker, MA, LMSW
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77006
I enjoy working with adults who come from a variety of backgrounds and have different needs for support and change in their life. Interests include but are not limited to Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, Trauma and Grief.
I enjoy working with adults who come from a variety of backgrounds and have different needs for support and change in their life. Interests include but are not limited to Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, Trauma and Grief.
(832) 501-3988 View (832) 501-3988
Photo of Kathy Michele Crumpler, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chambers County, TX
Kathy Michele Crumpler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77023
Do you have Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, or Schizoaffective Disorder and are looking for someone who is experienced with acute issues? I have that experience.
Life does not have to hurt. You deserve to be happy. If you are stressed, in pain or feel as if you cannot even bear another day, I can help you navigate these feelings, find solutions and offer a path forward. Your mental health is just as important as your physical health. I believe in you. Let us work together to activate your agency and help you work through anything that's holding you back. Self-care is not indulgent; it is essential to our well-being.
Do you have Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, or Schizoaffective Disorder and are looking for someone who is experienced with acute issues? I have that experience.
Life does not have to hurt. You deserve to be happy. If you are stressed, in pain or feel as if you cannot even bear another day, I can help you navigate these feelings, find solutions and offer a path forward. Your mental health is just as important as your physical health. I believe in you. Let us work together to activate your agency and help you work through anything that's holding you back. Self-care is not indulgent; it is essential to our well-being.
(346) 521-5853 View (346) 521-5853
Photo of Blair Vinson Kleiber, Psychologist in Chambers County, TX
Blair Vinson Kleiber
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77024  (Online Only)
My primary focus is helping clients build a fulfilling life based on their personal values & goals. I primarily work with older adolescents, adults, parents, and families with a variety of difficulties including: self-harm & suicidal behaviors, intense emotions/emotions that feel out of control, mood (depression and bipolar disorder), anxiety, and substance use disorders. I have extensive training treating disorders during pregnancy and the postpartum period, as well. My style is collaborative and compassionate, as well as evidence based, meaning I use treatments that have been supported by research to show they are effective.
My primary focus is helping clients build a fulfilling life based on their personal values & goals. I primarily work with older adolescents, adults, parents, and families with a variety of difficulties including: self-harm & suicidal behaviors, intense emotions/emotions that feel out of control, mood (depression and bipolar disorder), anxiety, and substance use disorders. I have extensive training treating disorders during pregnancy and the postpartum period, as well. My style is collaborative and compassionate, as well as evidence based, meaning I use treatments that have been supported by research to show they are effective.
(281) 645-5091 View (281) 645-5091
Photo of Kathleen Treadway, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chambers County, TX
Kathleen Treadway
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, LCDC
Verified Verified
Kingwood, TX 77339  (Online Only)
I have helped adults, adolescents, and families with a broad range of difficulties, including excessive anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, history of domestic violence and/or childhood trauma, etc.
I view counseling as a partnership between the client and myself. I see my role as enabling people to explore ways to heal from emotional hurt, to discover pathways toward more effective and positive ways of thinking, and to adopt helpful patterns of behavior. Through counseling, I help people recognize their strengths; encourage individuals to take responsibility for their feelings, thoughts, and behaviors; and assist people in making and implementing effective decisions. Using an integrative approach to counseling, the techniques I use are cognitive-behavioral, person-centered, solution-focused, and interpersonal. I utilize cognitive-behavioral therapy and family system theories.
I have helped adults, adolescents, and families with a broad range of difficulties, including excessive anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, history of domestic violence and/or childhood trauma, etc.
I view counseling as a partnership between the client and myself. I see my role as enabling people to explore ways to heal from emotional hurt, to discover pathways toward more effective and positive ways of thinking, and to adopt helpful patterns of behavior. Through counseling, I help people recognize their strengths; encourage individuals to take responsibility for their feelings, thoughts, and behaviors; and assist people in making and implementing effective decisions. Using an integrative approach to counseling, the techniques I use are cognitive-behavioral, person-centered, solution-focused, and interpersonal. I utilize cognitive-behavioral therapy and family system theories.
(713) 338-9113 View (713) 338-9113
Photo of Shannon Mosher, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chambers County, TX
Shannon Mosher
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC LPC, C-PD, CHT, CCTP, C-DBT
Verified Verified
Kingwood, TX 77339
Waitlist for new clients
Do you have an overwhelming sense of anxiety or depression? Are you completely exhausted by your emotional pain and feel like a prisoner in your own mind? Together, we can find solutions to help you take action and start becoming the best version of yourself! I am a compassionate and caring counselor who has helped hundreds of people to redefine their lives and live more meaningful, joyous, and focused lives. People come to me when they’re struggling with panic, anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, loneliness, abandonment, personality disorders, bipolar, trauma, stress, life direction, or healthy self-esteem.
Do you have an overwhelming sense of anxiety or depression? Are you completely exhausted by your emotional pain and feel like a prisoner in your own mind? Together, we can find solutions to help you take action and start becoming the best version of yourself! I am a compassionate and caring counselor who has helped hundreds of people to redefine their lives and live more meaningful, joyous, and focused lives. People come to me when they’re struggling with panic, anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, loneliness, abandonment, personality disorders, bipolar, trauma, stress, life direction, or healthy self-esteem.
(281) 645-5681 View (281) 645-5681
Photo of Theresa M Coulehan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chambers County, TX
Theresa M Coulehan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77057
Taking the first step toward seeking capable and compassionate mental health help takes courage! It may be one of the most important decisions when experiencing emotional distress of crisis. Terry brings clarity and knowledge to the counseling experience. She is committed in helping clients find hope, healing and stability in a world of overwhelming complexity and unintended stressful life events. Her clinical experience includes working in hospital settings treating a wide variety of mental issues including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and substance dependence. Other areas of practice include grief and teen issues.
Taking the first step toward seeking capable and compassionate mental health help takes courage! It may be one of the most important decisions when experiencing emotional distress of crisis. Terry brings clarity and knowledge to the counseling experience. She is committed in helping clients find hope, healing and stability in a world of overwhelming complexity and unintended stressful life events. Her clinical experience includes working in hospital settings treating a wide variety of mental issues including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and substance dependence. Other areas of practice include grief and teen issues.
(713) 660-8877 View (713) 660-8877
Photo of Elizabeth Adeseko, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chambers County, TX
Elizabeth Adeseko
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tomball, TX 77377  (Online Only)
I find satisfaction from supporting adolescents and adults who are navigating challenges such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and ADHD.
I am licensed both as a Clinical Social Worker and a Chemical Dependency Counselor, embarking on my career journey in 2007. My educational path commenced at the University of Wisconsin Green Bay, where I attained a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology & Human Development. Furthering my education, I pursued a Master of Science degree in Social Work from Loyola University Chicago Graduate School. Beginning my professional pursuits, I initially served as a counselor in the Crisis department at Horizons Mental Health Center. Subsequently, I devoted a decade to assisting individuals of all ages at Community Health Network in Pearland, Texas.
I find satisfaction from supporting adolescents and adults who are navigating challenges such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and ADHD.
I am licensed both as a Clinical Social Worker and a Chemical Dependency Counselor, embarking on my career journey in 2007. My educational path commenced at the University of Wisconsin Green Bay, where I attained a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology & Human Development. Furthering my education, I pursued a Master of Science degree in Social Work from Loyola University Chicago Graduate School. Beginning my professional pursuits, I initially served as a counselor in the Crisis department at Horizons Mental Health Center. Subsequently, I devoted a decade to assisting individuals of all ages at Community Health Network in Pearland, Texas.
(832) 979-7412 View (832) 979-7412
Photo of Paul Teska, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chambers County, TX
Paul Teska
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Dayton, TX 77535  (Online Only)
Throughout my career, I have probably worked with every single situation in the counseling field. I have worked inpatient, outpatient, and telepatient. I have worked in prisons, jails, psychiatric hospitals, IDD facilities, community MHMR, and community counseling centers. My specialties include drug and alcohol addiction, trauma, major depression, bipolar, schizophrenia, anxiety, stress, marital problems, anger management, and people with LGBTQ issues.
Throughout my career, I have probably worked with every single situation in the counseling field. I have worked inpatient, outpatient, and telepatient. I have worked in prisons, jails, psychiatric hospitals, IDD facilities, community MHMR, and community counseling centers. My specialties include drug and alcohol addiction, trauma, major depression, bipolar, schizophrenia, anxiety, stress, marital problems, anger management, and people with LGBTQ issues.
(936) 243-3569 View (936) 243-3569
Photo of Hello Online Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chambers County, TX
Hello Online Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Galveston, TX 77554  (Online Only)
I have a genuine love for people. I believe in helping people to find their voice, while empowering them to see the strengths they already have. I specialize with the LGBTQ community, and I advocate for transgender and non-binary people, domestic/sexual violence, depression, anxiety, self-harm, hoarding, bipolar, personality disorders, autism, and depression.
I have a genuine love for people. I believe in helping people to find their voice, while empowering them to see the strengths they already have. I specialize with the LGBTQ community, and I advocate for transgender and non-binary people, domestic/sexual violence, depression, anxiety, self-harm, hoarding, bipolar, personality disorders, autism, and depression.
(254) 203-5010 View (254) 203-5010
Photo of Evelyn Nunez Therapy, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chambers County, TX
Evelyn Nunez Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77024
schizophrenia, depression, bipolar D/O, personality disorders, anxiety, PTSD, etc.
I have provided mental health services for 11 years and my clients have ranged from ages 3-90 years old. It is my joy to work with individuals of any age whose challenges may range from clinical diagnosis to daily life stressors. I believe in change and in the possibility of modifying habits. Individual counseling and couple's counseling are some of the services provided.
schizophrenia, depression, bipolar D/O, personality disorders, anxiety, PTSD, etc.
I have provided mental health services for 11 years and my clients have ranged from ages 3-90 years old. It is my joy to work with individuals of any age whose challenges may range from clinical diagnosis to daily life stressors. I believe in change and in the possibility of modifying habits. Individual counseling and couple's counseling are some of the services provided.
(956) 436-5976 View (956) 436-5976
Photo of Jamie Taylor, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chambers County, TX
Jamie Taylor
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Rosenberg, TX 77469  (Online Only)
I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults with various diagnoses including Eating Disorders, Anxiety, ADHD, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Depression, Bipolar, Psychosis, Borderline Personality Disorder, Schizoaffective Disorder, as well as general stressors and everyday anxieties.
I started my career in mental health as a mental health technician for PEAK Behavioral Hospital in 2006. I then became a Qualified Mental Health Professional/Case Manager for Texana Center for 8 years in 2007. I then became a behavioral health counselor at Eating Recovery Center-Houston with clients struggling with various eating disorders, followed by becoming a therapist for two different PHP/IOP programs, one for adults and the other for adolescents. Finally, I have experience working for a private practice and now my own private practice with clients who struggle with stress, domestic violence, parenting, family conflict, etc.
I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults with various diagnoses including Eating Disorders, Anxiety, ADHD, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Depression, Bipolar, Psychosis, Borderline Personality Disorder, Schizoaffective Disorder, as well as general stressors and everyday anxieties.
I started my career in mental health as a mental health technician for PEAK Behavioral Hospital in 2006. I then became a Qualified Mental Health Professional/Case Manager for Texana Center for 8 years in 2007. I then became a behavioral health counselor at Eating Recovery Center-Houston with clients struggling with various eating disorders, followed by becoming a therapist for two different PHP/IOP programs, one for adults and the other for adolescents. Finally, I have experience working for a private practice and now my own private practice with clients who struggle with stress, domestic violence, parenting, family conflict, etc.
(915) 221-2597 View (915) 221-2597
Photo of Hope & Serenity Counseling & Consulting Services, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chambers County, TX
Hope & Serenity Counseling & Consulting Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, CCMHC
Verified Verified
Cypress, TX 77433  (Online Only)
I use a variety of treatment modalities, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, and trauma focused therapy to assist individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, bipolar, trauma, relationship and self-esteem issues.
Welcome to Hope and Serenity Counseling and Consulting Services. I believe that every person has the optimistic desire to live well with positive outcomes, as it relates to everyday events and circumstances in our lives. I am also aware that life is not neatly packaged with all of our wants, desires, hopes and dreams; it is very unpredictable and comes with the good and the bad. I aim to create a safe space in my practice for those who have experienced the effects of mental illness and trauma, as a result of loss of a loved one, job, relationships and self-esteem. I want to help you decrease anxiety, depression, and worry. Call me
I use a variety of treatment modalities, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, and trauma focused therapy to assist individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, bipolar, trauma, relationship and self-esteem issues.
Welcome to Hope and Serenity Counseling and Consulting Services. I believe that every person has the optimistic desire to live well with positive outcomes, as it relates to everyday events and circumstances in our lives. I am also aware that life is not neatly packaged with all of our wants, desires, hopes and dreams; it is very unpredictable and comes with the good and the bad. I aim to create a safe space in my practice for those who have experienced the effects of mental illness and trauma, as a result of loss of a loved one, job, relationships and self-esteem. I want to help you decrease anxiety, depression, and worry. Call me
(346) 666-7088 View (346) 666-7088
Photo of Miguel de la Fuente, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chambers County, TX
Miguel de la Fuente
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77073
Hello, my name is Miguel A. De La Fuente and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas. I have experience working with clients struggling with most mental health obstacles. These topics include Bipolar, borderline, depression, anxiety, and PTSD. As well as relationships, career guidance, and life struggles/changes. I have worked closely with adults 18 to 40 years old of all ethnic, cultural, and religious backgrounds. I am also a veteran and have been a fitness/life coach for over 20 years.
Hello, my name is Miguel A. De La Fuente and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas. I have experience working with clients struggling with most mental health obstacles. These topics include Bipolar, borderline, depression, anxiety, and PTSD. As well as relationships, career guidance, and life struggles/changes. I have worked closely with adults 18 to 40 years old of all ethnic, cultural, and religious backgrounds. I am also a veteran and have been a fitness/life coach for over 20 years.
(346) 517-8984 View (346) 517-8984

See more therapy options for Chambers 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.