Photo of Mat A Trammell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Decatur, TX
Mat A Trammell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Decatur, TX 76234
Develop your personal strengths and discover the right direction in life now. If you've been hospitalized or in PHP treatment you know the importance of continuing quality care and I want to help you. Managing stress, and repairing patterns in life can transform your outlook and feelings. Keep up your support and increase momentum with solutions we'll find. The change you need can happen. Let's resolve the hurt and restore the self you know is inside while making a plan for better living again. I've worked extensively with personality disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, relationships and debilitating anxiety.
Develop your personal strengths and discover the right direction in life now. If you've been hospitalized or in PHP treatment you know the importance of continuing quality care and I want to help you. Managing stress, and repairing patterns in life can transform your outlook and feelings. Keep up your support and increase momentum with solutions we'll find. The change you need can happen. Let's resolve the hurt and restore the self you know is inside while making a plan for better living again. I've worked extensively with personality disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, relationships and debilitating anxiety.
(817) 756-7984 View (817) 756-7984
Photo of Lindy's Legacy, PLLC, Psychologist in Decatur, TX
Lindy's Legacy, PLLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Decatur, TX 76234
Life challenges can be complex, oppressive and limiting. Circumstances can stack and compound to birth seemingly insurmountable difficulties. No matter your experience, it's never too late or beyond hope. Upon entering therapy, you will be assured of a safe, non-judgmental, compassionate, genuine and realistic environment. We will ease your distress through use of effective research-supported interventions, addressing perplexities and hardships impacting your mind, body and spirit. Targeting past, present and future adversities, we will work to actualize healthy self-esteem and life wholeness, hope, meaning, purpose and freedom.
Life challenges can be complex, oppressive and limiting. Circumstances can stack and compound to birth seemingly insurmountable difficulties. No matter your experience, it's never too late or beyond hope. Upon entering therapy, you will be assured of a safe, non-judgmental, compassionate, genuine and realistic environment. We will ease your distress through use of effective research-supported interventions, addressing perplexities and hardships impacting your mind, body and spirit. Targeting past, present and future adversities, we will work to actualize healthy self-esteem and life wholeness, hope, meaning, purpose and freedom.
(940) 251-0310 View (940) 251-0310
Photo of Andrea C. Strempke, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Decatur, TX
Andrea C. Strempke
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MS, CRC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Decatur, TX 76234  (Online Only)
Do you want to feel hope, balance, and freedom in your life? Hello, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor - Associate and I am supervised by Amanda Esquivel, LPC-S and Hilary Labac, LPC-S. It is my honor to help clients manage and minimize their symptoms and work through the core of their problems, because I know it is more than possible to live your best, healthiest life, despite the conditions you face each day. I admire your courage to seek help. I believe in a science-based, holistic approach to mental health treatment, and seeking to identify and treat the root causes of mental health conditions, not just the symptoms.
Do you want to feel hope, balance, and freedom in your life? Hello, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor - Associate and I am supervised by Amanda Esquivel, LPC-S and Hilary Labac, LPC-S. It is my honor to help clients manage and minimize their symptoms and work through the core of their problems, because I know it is more than possible to live your best, healthiest life, despite the conditions you face each day. I admire your courage to seek help. I believe in a science-based, holistic approach to mental health treatment, and seeking to identify and treat the root causes of mental health conditions, not just the symptoms.
(940) 468-1391 View (940) 468-1391
Photo of Dana Lee, Licensed Professional Counselor in Decatur, TX
Dana Lee
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
Decatur, TX 76234  (Online Only)
I have been counseling individuals in Texas for 8 years. Some of the areas I provide counseling for are those struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, life stressors, work stressors, divorce and separation, anger management, impulse control, substance abuse and relapse prevention. Together with the use of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy we work on setting attainable goals and developing appropriate coping skills for triggers of those unwanted symptoms. Working together to eliminate these symptoms and develop a relapse prevention plan to prevent them from returning.
I have been counseling individuals in Texas for 8 years. Some of the areas I provide counseling for are those struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, life stressors, work stressors, divorce and separation, anger management, impulse control, substance abuse and relapse prevention. Together with the use of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy we work on setting attainable goals and developing appropriate coping skills for triggers of those unwanted symptoms. Working together to eliminate these symptoms and develop a relapse prevention plan to prevent them from returning.
(940) 539-0799 View (940) 539-0799
Photo of Sahara Elizabeth Mozaffarimehr Agency Has No Waiting List!, LPC Intern in Decatur, TX
Sahara Elizabeth Mozaffarimehr Agency Has No Waiting List!
LPC Intern, LPC-A, MA, MBA
Verified Verified
Decatur, TX 76234  (Online Only)
My Practice Offers Telehealth Sessions All Across The State Of Oregon!
My Practice Offers Telehealth Sessions All Across The State Of Oregon!
(971) 265-6724 View (971) 265-6724
Photo of Harvest Counseling & Wellness, Licensed Professional Counselor in Decatur, TX
Harvest Counseling & Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Decatur, TX 76234
Our team at Harvest Counseling & Wellness is dedicated to helping clients reach their goals using a holistic approach and find comfort in a secure environment that is safe and free of judgement. Our center is comprised of a Counseling Team and a Wellness Team. Our wide array of services include: counseling, nutrition, mindfulness, groups, and parenting classes.
Our team at Harvest Counseling & Wellness is dedicated to helping clients reach their goals using a holistic approach and find comfort in a secure environment that is safe and free of judgement. Our center is comprised of a Counseling Team and a Wellness Team. Our wide array of services include: counseling, nutrition, mindfulness, groups, and parenting classes.
(940) 267-2548 View (940) 267-2548

Online Therapists

Photo of Kelleigh Head, Psychologist in Decatur, 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 Ichange Counseling, Psychiatry & Testing, Licensed Professional Counselor in Decatur, TX
Ichange Counseling, Psychiatry & Testing
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S, LCDC, MD
Verified Verified
Corinth, TX 76208
ADD/ ADHD testing, Bipolar,Depression, Anxiety, On Site Psychiatrist as needed, Improving Behavior, Making & Keeping Friends, Adjusting to Blended Family, Disordered Eating, Grieving Death, Understanding Divorce, Abuse, Preventing Suicide, Anxiety, Career / Job Skill,Social Skills, Couples,.
All ages welcome. Finding a counselor is overwhelming. We can offer you support. Counseling and coaching for depression, anxiety, bipolar, trauma and much more. We use play therapy, Cog. Behavioral, couples and family techniques, expressive therapies and individualized approaches. In contract with local EAP's. Treatment is customized for clients' specific needs. Licensed supervisor, and published book author. Both undergrad and grad degrees from MSU with continued training in CBT, solution focused, and family systems in New Jersey and Boston.
ADD/ ADHD testing, Bipolar,Depression, Anxiety, On Site Psychiatrist as needed, Improving Behavior, Making & Keeping Friends, Adjusting to Blended Family, Disordered Eating, Grieving Death, Understanding Divorce, Abuse, Preventing Suicide, Anxiety, Career / Job Skill,Social Skills, Couples,.
All ages welcome. Finding a counselor is overwhelming. We can offer you support. Counseling and coaching for depression, anxiety, bipolar, trauma and much more. We use play therapy, Cog. Behavioral, couples and family techniques, expressive therapies and individualized approaches. In contract with local EAP's. Treatment is customized for clients' specific needs. Licensed supervisor, and published book author. Both undergrad and grad degrees from MSU with continued training in CBT, solution focused, and family systems in New Jersey and Boston.
(940) 236-0662 View (940) 236-0662
Photo of Marcy S Conner, Licensed Professional Counselor in Decatur, TX
Marcy S Conner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Keller, TX 76248
I work with individuals who want to understand the root cause of their struggles and address those issues with long-lasting strategies, helping you get closer to the life you've always wanted. My areas of expertise are primarily in work with clients struggling with trauma, PTSD, and complex trauma, anxiety, stress, marital/relationships, pre-marital, parenting, blended families, life transitions, depression, grief/loss, bipolar disorder, and women’s issues. I am with the belief that the relationship can be the catalyst for healing and growth as as well as an environment of safety and non-judgement.
I work with individuals who want to understand the root cause of their struggles and address those issues with long-lasting strategies, helping you get closer to the life you've always wanted. My areas of expertise are primarily in work with clients struggling with trauma, PTSD, and complex trauma, anxiety, stress, marital/relationships, pre-marital, parenting, blended families, life transitions, depression, grief/loss, bipolar disorder, and women’s issues. I am with the belief that the relationship can be the catalyst for healing and growth as as well as an environment of safety and non-judgement.
(817) 697-0741 View (817) 697-0741
Photo of Dr. Sonya Gray Belcher, Psychologist in Decatur, TX
Dr. Sonya Gray Belcher
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Lewisville, TX 75067  (Online Only)
I enjoy helping adults dealing with a variety of issues like depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, grief, trauma, low self-esteem, low motivation, spiritual issues and relationship issues in individual counseling.
As a psychologist I counsel many people who feel they are at their lowest point even when no one knows they are feeling this way. I also counsel people who just need a listening ear and support. Your willingness to seek more from your life instead of living with the status quo is admirable.
I enjoy helping adults dealing with a variety of issues like depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, grief, trauma, low self-esteem, low motivation, spiritual issues and relationship issues in individual counseling.
As a psychologist I counsel many people who feel they are at their lowest point even when no one knows they are feeling this way. I also counsel people who just need a listening ear and support. Your willingness to seek more from your life instead of living with the status quo is admirable.
(817) 242-9802 View (817) 242-9802
Photo of Nancy Lownds, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Decatur, TX
Nancy Lownds
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070
As a licensed clinical social worker in Texas, I have 20 years of experience that includes working in Inpatient Behavioral Health Hospitals specializing in trauma and substance use disorders, and Outpatient Programs in trauma and addiction. I have worked with co-occurring disorders, such as depression, bipolar disorders, anxiety, PTSD and addiction. I grew up in Atlanta, Georgia and attended the University of Georgia for my BSW degree and The University of Texas in Arlington for my MSSW degree. I am trained in CBT, DBT, Family Systems, Trauma Model Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy.
As a licensed clinical social worker in Texas, I have 20 years of experience that includes working in Inpatient Behavioral Health Hospitals specializing in trauma and substance use disorders, and Outpatient Programs in trauma and addiction. I have worked with co-occurring disorders, such as depression, bipolar disorders, anxiety, PTSD and addiction. I grew up in Atlanta, Georgia and attended the University of Georgia for my BSW degree and The University of Texas in Arlington for my MSSW degree. I am trained in CBT, DBT, Family Systems, Trauma Model Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy.
(972) 945-0438 View (972) 945-0438
Photo of Mimi Walke, Licensed Professional Counselor in Decatur, TX
Mimi Walke
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, C-DBT
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75206
I specialize in mood disorders (anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder), relationship issues, and personality disorders.
Do you ever feel misunderstood, alone, or overwhelmed by your daily responsibilities? Therapy can be a great way to learn to build coping skills for your anxiety, depression, or any other mental health challenges you may be facing. Therapy can also help you set goals, work on boundary setting, communication skills, and processing past events that have left lasting marks in current relationships. It's important that I provide a safe space for my clients to express their feelings, needs, and wants to an unbiased person (me, the counselor) and that I can offer feedback that challenges them to grow and heal!
I specialize in mood disorders (anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder), relationship issues, and personality disorders.
Do you ever feel misunderstood, alone, or overwhelmed by your daily responsibilities? Therapy can be a great way to learn to build coping skills for your anxiety, depression, or any other mental health challenges you may be facing. Therapy can also help you set goals, work on boundary setting, communication skills, and processing past events that have left lasting marks in current relationships. It's important that I provide a safe space for my clients to express their feelings, needs, and wants to an unbiased person (me, the counselor) and that I can offer feedback that challenges them to grow and heal!
(512) 714-3403 View (512) 714-3403
Photo of David L. Falkstein, Ph.D., & Associates, Psychologist in Decatur, TX
David L. Falkstein, Ph.D., & Associates
Psychologist, PhD, LSSP
Verified Verified
Allen, TX 75013
We have expertise in the areas of ADHD, depression, anxiety, Autism/Aspergers, dyslexia, learning disabilities, and emotional/behavioral disorders (anxiety, depression, Oppositional Defiant, and Bipolar Disorder).
Dr. Falkstein has worked in the mental health field since 1988 and has conducted several thousand evaluations over the past 25 years. Unlike most psychologists, Dr. Falkstein has experience and knowledge as a psychologist in private practice and as a school psychologist actually working in the schools. Dr. Falkstein has a clinical team that works with him that includes 6 other Psychologists and 4 Licensed Professional Counselors. We offer evaluation services and therapy services to children, adolescents, and adults.
We have expertise in the areas of ADHD, depression, anxiety, Autism/Aspergers, dyslexia, learning disabilities, and emotional/behavioral disorders (anxiety, depression, Oppositional Defiant, and Bipolar Disorder).
Dr. Falkstein has worked in the mental health field since 1988 and has conducted several thousand evaluations over the past 25 years. Unlike most psychologists, Dr. Falkstein has experience and knowledge as a psychologist in private practice and as a school psychologist actually working in the schools. Dr. Falkstein has a clinical team that works with him that includes 6 other Psychologists and 4 Licensed Professional Counselors. We offer evaluation services and therapy services to children, adolescents, and adults.
(214) 427-1468 View (214) 427-1468
Photo of Samia Geraghty, Licensed Professional Counselor in Decatur, TX
Samia Geraghty
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75214
As a therapist with 20 years of experience, I offer support, empathy, guidance and a safe space to explore any problem you may bring, big or small. Together we can work to identify your goals and find solutions to any issues you are currently facing. I work with adults and adolescents with a wide range of issues including but not limited to anxiety, phobias, depression, bipolar disorder, LGBTQIA, personality disorders, chronic pain, sexual abuse, trauma, job stress and relationship difficulties.
As a therapist with 20 years of experience, I offer support, empathy, guidance and a safe space to explore any problem you may bring, big or small. Together we can work to identify your goals and find solutions to any issues you are currently facing. I work with adults and adolescents with a wide range of issues including but not limited to anxiety, phobias, depression, bipolar disorder, LGBTQIA, personality disorders, chronic pain, sexual abuse, trauma, job stress and relationship difficulties.
(469) 352-2304 View (469) 352-2304
Photo of Met Where You Are, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Decatur, TX
Met Where You Are
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPCA, MA
Verified Verified
Colleyville, TX 76034
I also focus on: Trauma, Feeling lost, Helping helpers, Emotional balance, Reaching goals, Bipolar 1 and 2, Depression, Borderline, Anxiety, Autism.
My approach is to meet you where you are with empathy and caring. To support you in life regardless of what you have been through. Regardless of if you hate yourself or love yourself or how stuck you feel. I hope to support you to reach your goals, and if I can't, to help you find someone who can. This space is for you. What do you want to do? Who do you want to become? Whether all hope is lost or you just can't figure something out. Whether you have been diagnosed with a disorder, you just don't feel happy where you are, or you want to learn how to be healthier. My approach helps you become more of who you are and be whole again.
I also focus on: Trauma, Feeling lost, Helping helpers, Emotional balance, Reaching goals, Bipolar 1 and 2, Depression, Borderline, Anxiety, Autism.
My approach is to meet you where you are with empathy and caring. To support you in life regardless of what you have been through. Regardless of if you hate yourself or love yourself or how stuck you feel. I hope to support you to reach your goals, and if I can't, to help you find someone who can. This space is for you. What do you want to do? Who do you want to become? Whether all hope is lost or you just can't figure something out. Whether you have been diagnosed with a disorder, you just don't feel happy where you are, or you want to learn how to be healthier. My approach helps you become more of who you are and be whole again.
(817) 993-4730 View (817) 993-4730
Photo of Barbara Armitage, Licensed Professional Counselor in Decatur, TX
Barbara Armitage
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LPC-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75075
I specialize in various life challenges, such as: depression, anxiety, stress, bipolar disorder, abuse, grief/loss issues, communication problems and relationship issues.
It is my intention and my hope to bring warmth, comfort, skill, mindfulness, confidentiality and good humor into each client partnership.
I specialize in various life challenges, such as: depression, anxiety, stress, bipolar disorder, abuse, grief/loss issues, communication problems and relationship issues.
It is my intention and my hope to bring warmth, comfort, skill, mindfulness, confidentiality and good humor into each client partnership.
(469) 844-4258 View (469) 844-4258
Photo of Allison Ondocsin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Decatur, TX
Allison Ondocsin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75219
My practice consists of individuals and couples with a large range of experiences including: anxiety, depression, eating disorders, bipolar disorder, feeling stuck, life transitions, loss, trauma, infidelity, work frustration, sexual dissatisfaction, and relationship conflicts.
You've already taken a brave step. Seeking therapy means you have a desire to engage in life in a different way. Across their diverse backgrounds, my clients have all decided they want something more, and I have the privilege of watching them get there. By establishing a safe space for expression and exploration, I'll join you as you tolerate and, when ready, lean into uncomfortable thoughts, feelings and experiences. I empower clients by supporting them as they integrate techniques associated with overcoming challenges, increasing resilience and joy, building courage to challenge fears, and living more wholeheartedly.
My practice consists of individuals and couples with a large range of experiences including: anxiety, depression, eating disorders, bipolar disorder, feeling stuck, life transitions, loss, trauma, infidelity, work frustration, sexual dissatisfaction, and relationship conflicts.
You've already taken a brave step. Seeking therapy means you have a desire to engage in life in a different way. Across their diverse backgrounds, my clients have all decided they want something more, and I have the privilege of watching them get there. By establishing a safe space for expression and exploration, I'll join you as you tolerate and, when ready, lean into uncomfortable thoughts, feelings and experiences. I empower clients by supporting them as they integrate techniques associated with overcoming challenges, increasing resilience and joy, building courage to challenge fears, and living more wholeheartedly.
(972) 694-4333 View (972) 694-4333
Photo of Jesse Gill, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Decatur, TX
Jesse Gill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Highland Village, TX 75077
I am a licensed clinician who has experience working with trauma, anxiety, depression, stress, OCD, and bipolar. I believe that from our birth we begin building an image of who we are, how relationships should function, and how the world works around us. For many of us, adverse experiences in life can lead to difficulty managing stress or daily functioning as we get older. We may need help processing our lived experiences and understanding how they have effected our decision making and the struggles we face today. I believe that, by focusing on the present and applying the past, we can discover both our goals and our strengths.
I am a licensed clinician who has experience working with trauma, anxiety, depression, stress, OCD, and bipolar. I believe that from our birth we begin building an image of who we are, how relationships should function, and how the world works around us. For many of us, adverse experiences in life can lead to difficulty managing stress or daily functioning as we get older. We may need help processing our lived experiences and understanding how they have effected our decision making and the struggles we face today. I believe that, by focusing on the present and applying the past, we can discover both our goals and our strengths.
(214) 380-2668 View (214) 380-2668
Photo of Free From Baggage Counseling Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Decatur, TX
Free From Baggage Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rockwall, TX 75087
I have worked with a variety of issues such as aging issues, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, adjustment, medical issues impacting mood, low self-esteem, fear, guilt & shame, bipolar & codependency.
My goal is to help you get free of your emotional baggage. I am here to walk alongside you as you begin the journey to emotional freedom. My belief is that therapy is a collaboration process, in which both the therapist and the client must work together for long lasting results. If you are looking for a therapist who is NOT just going to sit back, take notes and nod, then FFBCS is for you. My goal is for you to feel understood but also challenge you. Therapy will give you the courage and confidence to implement the skills you've learned and implement positive change in your life.
I have worked with a variety of issues such as aging issues, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, adjustment, medical issues impacting mood, low self-esteem, fear, guilt & shame, bipolar & codependency.
My goal is to help you get free of your emotional baggage. I am here to walk alongside you as you begin the journey to emotional freedom. My belief is that therapy is a collaboration process, in which both the therapist and the client must work together for long lasting results. If you are looking for a therapist who is NOT just going to sit back, take notes and nod, then FFBCS is for you. My goal is for you to feel understood but also challenge you. Therapy will give you the courage and confidence to implement the skills you've learned and implement positive change in your life.
(214) 882-7601 View (214) 882-7601
Photo of Paul D Myers, Counselor in Decatur, TX
Paul D Myers
Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Frisco, TX 75034
Counseling is my life's calling! I have a background in helping people with the following struggles: depression, anxiety, ADD, bipolar, past abuse, marital or family conflict, parenting issues, troubled teenagers, and career decisions.
I understand your pain, I've been there. I want to help you, your children and, your family make life transformations and create positive change. Imagine freedom from anxiety, the ability to break depression, and a new healthy direction for your life! I've seen great results in my clients and I want to you be the next person I serve to make a positive difference. I counsel from a faith based cognitive behavioral perspective to help you gain control over your thoughts and feelings and overcome the pain that life throws our way.
Counseling is my life's calling! I have a background in helping people with the following struggles: depression, anxiety, ADD, bipolar, past abuse, marital or family conflict, parenting issues, troubled teenagers, and career decisions.
I understand your pain, I've been there. I want to help you, your children and, your family make life transformations and create positive change. Imagine freedom from anxiety, the ability to break depression, and a new healthy direction for your life! I've seen great results in my clients and I want to you be the next person I serve to make a positive difference. I counsel from a faith based cognitive behavioral perspective to help you gain control over your thoughts and feelings and overcome the pain that life throws our way.
(972) 893-9036 View (972) 893-9036

See more therapy options for Decatur

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.