Photo of Denise M. Filer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Comfort, TX
Denise M. Filer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
Comfort, TX 78013
If you have come to the realization you are emotionally and mentally blocked; then it is time for a change. If those behavior patterns and thoughts have gotten in the way of you experiencing the deeper meaning of life and enjoyment let me facilitate your growth so that you can transform your life and live to the fullest. I Specialize in: • Depression • Grief • Addiction • Sexual Abuse • LGBTQ •PTSD • Personality Disorders •Co-occurring diseases •and Trauma .
If you have come to the realization you are emotionally and mentally blocked; then it is time for a change. If those behavior patterns and thoughts have gotten in the way of you experiencing the deeper meaning of life and enjoyment let me facilitate your growth so that you can transform your life and live to the fullest. I Specialize in: • Depression • Grief • Addiction • Sexual Abuse • LGBTQ •PTSD • Personality Disorders •Co-occurring diseases •and Trauma .
(830) 254-5603 View (830) 254-5603

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Beth Linfoot, Counseling, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Comfort, TX
Beth Linfoot, Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MA, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Waring, TX 78074
Waitlist for new clients
I work with teens, young adults, individuals, families, and couples. I have extensive experience with relationship issues, self-esteem, depression, bipolar, trauma, anxiety, and addiction. I believe that all great struggle creates the opportunity for profound growth and that what lies on the other side of discomfort is greater than any of us could have imagined. I am passionate about helping others realize their emotional and spiritual potential.
I work with teens, young adults, individuals, families, and couples. I have extensive experience with relationship issues, self-esteem, depression, bipolar, trauma, anxiety, and addiction. I believe that all great struggle creates the opportunity for profound growth and that what lies on the other side of discomfort is greater than any of us could have imagined. I am passionate about helping others realize their emotional and spiritual potential.
(210) 591-8031 View (210) 591-8031

Online Therapists

Photo of Stephanie Pinson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Comfort, TX
Stephanie Pinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kyle, TX 78640
Waitlist for new clients
I have experience working with individuals with a variety of life struggles including anxiety, depression, increased stress, PTSD and trauma, bipolar disorder, and grief and loss.
Perhaps you've been struggling with painful emotions, communicating in your relationships, managing stress and anxiety, or working through previous painful experiences. I know how difficult life can feel and I believe in providing a supportive and nonjudgmental therapeutic environment in which we can collaboratively work to solve problems, improve coping skills, and find you the support you need. I also offer specialized treatment for individuals who experience painful emotions related to adverse life experiences through EMDR.
I have experience working with individuals with a variety of life struggles including anxiety, depression, increased stress, PTSD and trauma, bipolar disorder, and grief and loss.
Perhaps you've been struggling with painful emotions, communicating in your relationships, managing stress and anxiety, or working through previous painful experiences. I know how difficult life can feel and I believe in providing a supportive and nonjudgmental therapeutic environment in which we can collaboratively work to solve problems, improve coping skills, and find you the support you need. I also offer specialized treatment for individuals who experience painful emotions related to adverse life experiences through EMDR.
(512) 862-7515 View (512) 862-7515
Photo of Maria Fishel, Psychologist in Comfort, TX
Maria Fishel
Psychologist, PhD, LSSP
Verified Verified
Lakeway, TX 78734
While I work on common issues, such as depression (bipolar and unipolar), anxiety, and life transitions, I also specialize in neurodiverse populations, such as Autism Spectrum Disorders (including Asperger's Syndrome) and ADD/ADHD.
Overwhelmed? Tired of the same old patterns in your life? Doubting yourself or your decisions? Lost hope? Feeling disconnected from others and your goals? Let me be your guide through life's intersections. I believe we all can benefit from professional support at some point in our lives. Why not start now? My approach is supportive, empathetic, direct, and collaborative. I tailor my counseling to your needs. I welcome traditional and nontraditional individuals, and anyone who feels marginalized, isolated, or undervalued. Together, we'll work on building connections and finding solutions, one step at a time.
While I work on common issues, such as depression (bipolar and unipolar), anxiety, and life transitions, I also specialize in neurodiverse populations, such as Autism Spectrum Disorders (including Asperger's Syndrome) and ADD/ADHD.
Overwhelmed? Tired of the same old patterns in your life? Doubting yourself or your decisions? Lost hope? Feeling disconnected from others and your goals? Let me be your guide through life's intersections. I believe we all can benefit from professional support at some point in our lives. Why not start now? My approach is supportive, empathetic, direct, and collaborative. I tailor my counseling to your needs. I welcome traditional and nontraditional individuals, and anyone who feels marginalized, isolated, or undervalued. Together, we'll work on building connections and finding solutions, one step at a time.
(512) 649-2180 View (512) 649-2180
Photo of Brooke Gilliland, Licensed Professional Counselor in Comfort, TX
Brooke Gilliland
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, RPT, NCC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78258
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in helping with these clinical concerns (including the management of bipolar disorders).
You may be nervous just thinking about starting the therapy process. So here's a little bit about how I do therapy. I specialize in Christian counseling and play therapy, as well as using expressive/sandtray therapy in sessions. What does this mean? It means that I believe it's super helpful to use many things within the therapy context. The image of sitting on a couch talking is not the only way counseling services are provided. Therapy can include using your faith to understand how to do things differently. It can also include using forms of creativity (art, sandtray) to identify points of being stuck and find new ways to heal!
I specialize in helping with these clinical concerns (including the management of bipolar disorders).
You may be nervous just thinking about starting the therapy process. So here's a little bit about how I do therapy. I specialize in Christian counseling and play therapy, as well as using expressive/sandtray therapy in sessions. What does this mean? It means that I believe it's super helpful to use many things within the therapy context. The image of sitting on a couch talking is not the only way counseling services are provided. Therapy can include using your faith to understand how to do things differently. It can also include using forms of creativity (art, sandtray) to identify points of being stuck and find new ways to heal!
(210) 791-9378 View (210) 791-9378
Photo of Caroline Chemwor Mkubwa, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Comfort, TX
Caroline Chemwor Mkubwa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78244  (Online Only)
A teenager with history of poor social skills, diagnosed with developmental delay, psychosis nos, anxiety issues and diagnosis of schizophrenia and Bipolar. Also depression and autism.This are the presenting issues that the teenager has to deal with throughout his/her life. Sometimes the teenager have a psychosis episode and sometimes on denial.
A teenager with history of poor social skills, diagnosed with developmental delay, psychosis nos, anxiety issues and diagnosis of schizophrenia and Bipolar. Also depression and autism.This are the presenting issues that the teenager has to deal with throughout his/her life. Sometimes the teenager have a psychosis episode and sometimes on denial.
(210) 942-0793 View (210) 942-0793
Photo of Tony Vitela, LCSW, SAP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Comfort, TX
Tony Vitela, LCSW, SAP
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SAP
Verified Verified
Wimberley, TX 78676
I work with clients on a spectrum of issues including ADD/ADHD/ODD, Alcohol & Drugs, Anger Management, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorders, Conduct Disorders, Depression, Eating Disorders, Grief & Bereveavement, Life Transitions, Military Life Issues, OCD, Panic Atttacks, Parenting, Phobias, Psychotic Disorders, PTSD, Relationships, and Work-related Issues.
Licensed since 1993 and in private practice since 1999. Previous work-related experience includes working at a residential treatment center, youth shelter, juvenile detention center, chemical dependency unit, adolescent and adult in-patient hospital, Employee Assistance Program, crisis intervention, in-take assessments, and intensive out-patient programming. Over the past two decades, I have served individuals, couples, families, children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly. I am a certified and approved DOT Substance Abuse Professional.
I work with clients on a spectrum of issues including ADD/ADHD/ODD, Alcohol & Drugs, Anger Management, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorders, Conduct Disorders, Depression, Eating Disorders, Grief & Bereveavement, Life Transitions, Military Life Issues, OCD, Panic Atttacks, Parenting, Phobias, Psychotic Disorders, PTSD, Relationships, and Work-related Issues.
Licensed since 1993 and in private practice since 1999. Previous work-related experience includes working at a residential treatment center, youth shelter, juvenile detention center, chemical dependency unit, adolescent and adult in-patient hospital, Employee Assistance Program, crisis intervention, in-take assessments, and intensive out-patient programming. Over the past two decades, I have served individuals, couples, families, children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly. I am a certified and approved DOT Substance Abuse Professional.
(210) 941-2132 View (210) 941-2132
Photo of Anne Marie Jennings, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Comfort, TX
Anne Marie Jennings
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78746
My specialties include depression, anxiety, marital counseling, parent-child relationships, families, bipolar disorder, and anger management.
I approach therapy as a partnership with my clients in which you are the ultimate decision maker and I work with you to clear away obstacles and identify opportunities. My clients have successfully overcome or managed depression, anxiety, OCD, trauma, marital stress, parent-child difficulties, domestic violence, substance abuse, bipolar disorder, and anger issues.
My specialties include depression, anxiety, marital counseling, parent-child relationships, families, bipolar disorder, and anger management.
I approach therapy as a partnership with my clients in which you are the ultimate decision maker and I work with you to clear away obstacles and identify opportunities. My clients have successfully overcome or managed depression, anxiety, OCD, trauma, marital stress, parent-child difficulties, domestic violence, substance abuse, bipolar disorder, and anger issues.
(512) 430-4524 View (512) 430-4524
Photo of Jen Kahn, Licensed Professional Counselor in Comfort, TX
Jen Kahn
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78703  (Online Only)
I specialize in Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, Trauma/PTSD and relationships.
NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. I am here to help you discover your path and help guide you where you want to go in life. I believe in the power of awareness and choice. We all have the ability to choose our path but we may need some guidance, understanding, and support along the way.
I specialize in Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, Trauma/PTSD and relationships.
NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. I am here to help you discover your path and help guide you where you want to go in life. I believe in the power of awareness and choice. We all have the ability to choose our path but we may need some guidance, understanding, and support along the way.
(512) 675-6897 View (512) 675-6897
Photo of A World of Respect, Marriage & Family Therapist in Comfort, TX
A World of Respect
Marriage & Family Therapist, LPC-S, LMFT-S
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78723
I offer marital and premarital counseling, family and relationship conflicts counseling, specializing in: Child and adolescent behavior;Fostercare Depression; Bipolar disorder; ADD and ADHD; Sexual abuse; Grief and trauma therapy; Transitional life issues; GLB issues.
Susanne Slay-Westbrook, Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist-Supervisor, author and founder of A World of Respect, has been helping couples, families, children and individuals of all ages overcome relational, behavioral and emotional conflicts since 1984. By applying Respect-Focused Therapy, an approach which emphasizes respect as the centerpiece of therapy, I help clients identify and overcome hurtful patterns, resolve conflicts. past or present, and develop effective coping strategies in everyday life. I've written a new book, "Respect-FocusedTherapy: Honoring Clients Through the Therapeutic Relationship and Process," Routledge Pub. Available Oct. 1, 2 016.
I offer marital and premarital counseling, family and relationship conflicts counseling, specializing in: Child and adolescent behavior;Fostercare Depression; Bipolar disorder; ADD and ADHD; Sexual abuse; Grief and trauma therapy; Transitional life issues; GLB issues.
Susanne Slay-Westbrook, Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist-Supervisor, author and founder of A World of Respect, has been helping couples, families, children and individuals of all ages overcome relational, behavioral and emotional conflicts since 1984. By applying Respect-Focused Therapy, an approach which emphasizes respect as the centerpiece of therapy, I help clients identify and overcome hurtful patterns, resolve conflicts. past or present, and develop effective coping strategies in everyday life. I've written a new book, "Respect-FocusedTherapy: Honoring Clients Through the Therapeutic Relationship and Process," Routledge Pub. Available Oct. 1, 2 016.
(512) 649-0127 View (512) 649-0127
Photo of Boundless Journey LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Comfort, TX
Boundless Journey LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 73301  (Online Only)
My name is Jennifer Meyer and I've had a lifelong passion for helping individuals from a person-centered and trauma-informed approach. With over 20 years experience as a Licensed Professional Counselor within community mental health, I have worked extensively with individuals struggling with chronic mental health and substance use issues. This includes, but is not limited to: depression, anxiety, Bipolar, PTSD and other trauma-related issues, and psychosis. My work has also focused on providing crisis counseling support, particularly concentrated on suicidal behaviors and providing grief/loss support for suicide survivors.
My name is Jennifer Meyer and I've had a lifelong passion for helping individuals from a person-centered and trauma-informed approach. With over 20 years experience as a Licensed Professional Counselor within community mental health, I have worked extensively with individuals struggling with chronic mental health and substance use issues. This includes, but is not limited to: depression, anxiety, Bipolar, PTSD and other trauma-related issues, and psychosis. My work has also focused on providing crisis counseling support, particularly concentrated on suicidal behaviors and providing grief/loss support for suicide survivors.
(682) 900-6426 View (682) 900-6426
Photo of Kayla Burrow, Licensed Professional Counselor in Comfort, TX
Kayla Burrow
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78705  (Online Only)
I am a licensed professional counselor in Texas with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia & schizoaffective disorder, as well as, the co-occurring diagnosis .
I am a licensed professional counselor in Texas with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia & schizoaffective disorder, as well as, the co-occurring diagnosis .
(737) 252-6587 View (737) 252-6587
Photo of Margaret Bean, Marriage & Family Therapist in Comfort, TX
Margaret Bean
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78230  (Online Only)
My working experiences have offered me a wide range of opportunities to counsel couples, families, children, adolescents, and adults. I have knowledge in many areas including trauma, PTSD, depression, bipolar, schizophrenia, anxiety, self-esteem, multigenerational challenges, sexual assault, human trafficking, life transitions, and grief. experience working with members of the queer identity through all stages of their identity exploration and acceptance. I am also informed in various relationship practices including monogamous and alternative styles such as polyamory, kink, long-distance, and open relationships.
My working experiences have offered me a wide range of opportunities to counsel couples, families, children, adolescents, and adults. I have knowledge in many areas including trauma, PTSD, depression, bipolar, schizophrenia, anxiety, self-esteem, multigenerational challenges, sexual assault, human trafficking, life transitions, and grief. experience working with members of the queer identity through all stages of their identity exploration and acceptance. I am also informed in various relationship practices including monogamous and alternative styles such as polyamory, kink, long-distance, and open relationships.
(210) 941-4997 View (210) 941-4997
Photo of LaBre Roy, Pre-Licensed Professional in Comfort, TX
LaBre Roy
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPC, LMHCA, RMHC-I
Verified Verified
Converse, TX 78109  (Online Only)
Greetings! I’ve endured some wonderful and difficult experiences that have shaped who I am and how I help. My professional and personal journey has provided me with unique clinical knowledge that includes trauma, PTSD, anxiety, hopeless depression, cycles of substance abuse, and severe mental illnesses such as borderline personality disorder, bipolar, and schizophrenia.. By working with diverse (BIPOC) populations I have been successful in helping clients develop interpersonal communication skills, healthy coping strategies, and promoting optimal mental health.
Greetings! I’ve endured some wonderful and difficult experiences that have shaped who I am and how I help. My professional and personal journey has provided me with unique clinical knowledge that includes trauma, PTSD, anxiety, hopeless depression, cycles of substance abuse, and severe mental illnesses such as borderline personality disorder, bipolar, and schizophrenia.. By working with diverse (BIPOC) populations I have been successful in helping clients develop interpersonal communication skills, healthy coping strategies, and promoting optimal mental health.
(509) 519-1646 View (509) 519-1646
Photo of Kimberly McGoey, Psychologist in Comfort, TX
Kimberly McGoey
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78703  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating patients with long-term mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and trauma.
As a psychodynamic and attachment-oriented psychotherapist, I seek to help my patients better understand themselves. I know this journey isn't easy and I am here to walk with you down the path to knowing, understanding, and growing. I do this by meeting my patients where they are and mutually agreeing upon goals and what you want the therapeutic process to look like for you. Whether you are looking for help for a specific issue such as depression, anxiety, loss, or seek to explore yourself; I will join with you and help alleviate your pain in order to help you become more aware, integrated, and live a more content life.
I specialize in treating patients with long-term mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and trauma.
As a psychodynamic and attachment-oriented psychotherapist, I seek to help my patients better understand themselves. I know this journey isn't easy and I am here to walk with you down the path to knowing, understanding, and growing. I do this by meeting my patients where they are and mutually agreeing upon goals and what you want the therapeutic process to look like for you. Whether you are looking for help for a specific issue such as depression, anxiety, loss, or seek to explore yourself; I will join with you and help alleviate your pain in order to help you become more aware, integrated, and live a more content life.
(512) 714-3403 View (512) 714-3403
Photo of Schylar Rae Miller, Licensed Professional Counselor in Comfort, TX
Schylar Rae Miller
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 73301  (Online Only)
I have experience working with Anxiety disorders, PTSD, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, and psychotic spectrum illnesses.
I imagine you are here searching for a therapist due to life becoming too overwhelming. By starting this search, you've demonstrated a profound commitment to your well-being, and I am honored to accompany you on this path of exploration and healing. Together, we will work collaboratively to navigate through challenges, cultivate resilience, and unlock the inner resources necessary for your personal evolution. Throughout our sessions together, I will bring trauma-informed care from a calm and caring perspective to aid you in guiding your own growth.
I have experience working with Anxiety disorders, PTSD, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, and psychotic spectrum illnesses.
I imagine you are here searching for a therapist due to life becoming too overwhelming. By starting this search, you've demonstrated a profound commitment to your well-being, and I am honored to accompany you on this path of exploration and healing. Together, we will work collaboratively to navigate through challenges, cultivate resilience, and unlock the inner resources necessary for your personal evolution. Throughout our sessions together, I will bring trauma-informed care from a calm and caring perspective to aid you in guiding your own growth.
(972) 944-8764 View (972) 944-8764
Photo of Tad Minto, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Comfort, TX
Tad Minto
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cedar Park, TX 78613
James is a licensed clinical social worker.His practice spans over 26 years (post licensure), and he works with children, teenagers, and adults seeking help with a variety of issues. Areas of work he has done with clients include:healing from trauma; coping with depression and bipolar disorder; managing impulse control and disruptive behavior disorders; working out marital and family problems; coping with addictions and substance abuse; grief work; career counseling; and effectively managing life transitions. James specializes in working with children and families.
James is a licensed clinical social worker.His practice spans over 26 years (post licensure), and he works with children, teenagers, and adults seeking help with a variety of issues. Areas of work he has done with clients include:healing from trauma; coping with depression and bipolar disorder; managing impulse control and disruptive behavior disorders; working out marital and family problems; coping with addictions and substance abuse; grief work; career counseling; and effectively managing life transitions. James specializes in working with children and families.
(512) 790-7159 View (512) 790-7159
Photo of Spirit of Serene Healing Counseling LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Comfort, TX
Spirit of Serene Healing Counseling LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S, NCC, CART
Verified Verified
Marble Falls, TX 78654
I have over thirteen years of experience in working with individuals that have been diagnosed with Schizophrenia, Bi-Polar Disorder and Manic depression.
Everyone is unique in their own way with their own needs and purpose to fulfill. With life having many challenges, so we begin with a goal to live each moment with sincere and serene grace, to laugh about at least one thing every day, and to love with passion and compassion. There is always hope for renewal and a bright future so long as we focus on our goals.
I have over thirteen years of experience in working with individuals that have been diagnosed with Schizophrenia, Bi-Polar Disorder and Manic depression.
Everyone is unique in their own way with their own needs and purpose to fulfill. With life having many challenges, so we begin with a goal to live each moment with sincere and serene grace, to laugh about at least one thing every day, and to love with passion and compassion. There is always hope for renewal and a bright future so long as we focus on our goals.
(830) 798-1443 x300 View (830) 798-1443 x300
Photo of Renese M Johnson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Comfort, TX
Renese M Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Pflugerville, TX 78660  (Online Only)
I have worked with victims of abuse and assault as well as mental health issues such as depression and bipolar disorder.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with extensive experience in working with a diverse group of individuals. My approach is a person-centered eclectic approach that fosters self-acceptance and empowerment. I frequently use CBT and solution focus techniques when assisting in facilitating healthy change. Therapy is about you, your freedom and the healing that occurs through self-exploration, understanding, finding meaning, and deepening one's insight. My role is to help you begin to think, feel, and understand yourself more deeply, empowering lasting change.
I have worked with victims of abuse and assault as well as mental health issues such as depression and bipolar disorder.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with extensive experience in working with a diverse group of individuals. My approach is a person-centered eclectic approach that fosters self-acceptance and empowerment. I frequently use CBT and solution focus techniques when assisting in facilitating healthy change. Therapy is about you, your freedom and the healing that occurs through self-exploration, understanding, finding meaning, and deepening one's insight. My role is to help you begin to think, feel, and understand yourself more deeply, empowering lasting change.
(512) 559-1636 View (512) 559-1636
Photo of Velma Perez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Comfort, TX
Velma Perez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, C-DBT
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78232
My name is Velma, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker-Supervisor with over ten years' experience in the mental health field. My practice focus is with individuals, couples and teens looking for support. I specialize in helping individuals manage emotional challenges of trauma, bipolar, schizophrenia, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, child and adult ADHD, learning, academic, and work difficulties, self-esteem issues, chronic illness, and adjustment to change.
My name is Velma, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker-Supervisor with over ten years' experience in the mental health field. My practice focus is with individuals, couples and teens looking for support. I specialize in helping individuals manage emotional challenges of trauma, bipolar, schizophrenia, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, child and adult ADHD, learning, academic, and work difficulties, self-esteem issues, chronic illness, and adjustment to change.
(210) 614-4990 View (210) 614-4990
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.