Photo of Lynda Keen, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dripping Springs, TX
Lynda Keen, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Dripping Springs, TX 78620
Everyone can benefit from therapy at some point – whether for addressing momentary issues or ongoing challenges such as trauma. Life can be hard and different stages of life bring different obstacles. Whether you’re looking for a little support to get back on track or have a child who needs extra guidance, working with me can put things into perspective. In therapeutic sessions, we’ll focus on your strengths and work to find answers you’re seeking. Sessions can be held in my Dripping Springs, Texas office, or on-line from anywhere in Texas. Free 15-minute consultations are available to learn more about how I may support you.
Everyone can benefit from therapy at some point – whether for addressing momentary issues or ongoing challenges such as trauma. Life can be hard and different stages of life bring different obstacles. Whether you’re looking for a little support to get back on track or have a child who needs extra guidance, working with me can put things into perspective. In therapeutic sessions, we’ll focus on your strengths and work to find answers you’re seeking. Sessions can be held in my Dripping Springs, Texas office, or on-line from anywhere in Texas. Free 15-minute consultations are available to learn more about how I may support you.
(512) 470-8203 View (512) 470-8203
Photo of Kathleen Womansong, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dripping Springs, TX
Kathleen Womansong
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dripping Springs, TX 78620
In my two decades as therapist, I have been honored to witness people move through incredible challenges and sometimes transform the trajectory of their lives, Just as our bodies send healing to our physical wounds, we hold inside us all we need to be move through tremendous struggles to emerge whole. Our innate capacity to heal is in all of us. It is outside of our awareness because our minds are full of noise. I help my clients become inner explorers. I help them develop a lens of self-compassion, freedom from judgment and gentle curiosity about themselves. When we are at peace within ourselves, everything is possible.
In my two decades as therapist, I have been honored to witness people move through incredible challenges and sometimes transform the trajectory of their lives, Just as our bodies send healing to our physical wounds, we hold inside us all we need to be move through tremendous struggles to emerge whole. Our innate capacity to heal is in all of us. It is outside of our awareness because our minds are full of noise. I help my clients become inner explorers. I help them develop a lens of self-compassion, freedom from judgment and gentle curiosity about themselves. When we are at peace within ourselves, everything is possible.
(512) 515-9808 View (512) 515-9808
Photo of Lara Long, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dripping Springs, TX
Lara Long
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dripping Springs, TX 78620
Is stress, anxiety and depression plaguing you? Do you feel more disconnected than ever in this post-pandemic world? Have you ever been curious about what therapy with horses might be like? I'd love to offer you the experience of something different, through a felt experience of change either through in-person talk therapy or equine assisted psychotherapy (I also offer Telehealth!). Therapy can be a place to feel safe, seen and find pathways to new ways of being in the world. I hope to meet you soon!
Is stress, anxiety and depression plaguing you? Do you feel more disconnected than ever in this post-pandemic world? Have you ever been curious about what therapy with horses might be like? I'd love to offer you the experience of something different, through a felt experience of change either through in-person talk therapy or equine assisted psychotherapy (I also offer Telehealth!). Therapy can be a place to feel safe, seen and find pathways to new ways of being in the world. I hope to meet you soon!
(512) 729-8213 View (512) 729-8213
Photo of Ginger L Brown, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dripping Springs, TX
Ginger L Brown
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dripping Springs, TX 78620
I take an integrative eclectic therapy approach that fits you. I believe it is a team approach between the client and therapist to work actively towards treatment goals. I have 14 years of experience in multiple therapeutic settings working with a culturally diverse population of children, adolescents, and adults. I have experience designing and implementing appropriate individualized treatment plans with clearly defined culturally sensitive goals that encourage healthy supportive environments, communication between children and their support system and promotes mental wellness for the whole child, fostering resiliency.
I take an integrative eclectic therapy approach that fits you. I believe it is a team approach between the client and therapist to work actively towards treatment goals. I have 14 years of experience in multiple therapeutic settings working with a culturally diverse population of children, adolescents, and adults. I have experience designing and implementing appropriate individualized treatment plans with clearly defined culturally sensitive goals that encourage healthy supportive environments, communication between children and their support system and promotes mental wellness for the whole child, fostering resiliency.
(956) 253-1486 View (956) 253-1486
Photo of Sandra Cano Cormier, Psychologist in Dripping Springs, TX
Sandra Cano Cormier
Psychologist, PhD, LSSP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dripping Springs, TX 78620
I am a licensed psychologist and licensed specialist in school psychology. My practice serves adults, adolescents, children, and families. I use a problem-solving, collaborative, pragmatic approach which is helpful in achieving positive results quickly. My specialities include treating youth and adults with anxiety, depression, and trauma histories, as well as child and adolescent concerns such as ADHD and defiance. I am available to support veterans who are experiencing PTSD and adjustment issues related to returning to civilian life. Additionally, I work with older adults who might be experiencing depression, adjustment difficulties, or other mental health concerns.
I am a licensed psychologist and licensed specialist in school psychology. My practice serves adults, adolescents, children, and families. I use a problem-solving, collaborative, pragmatic approach which is helpful in achieving positive results quickly. My specialities include treating youth and adults with anxiety, depression, and trauma histories, as well as child and adolescent concerns such as ADHD and defiance. I am available to support veterans who are experiencing PTSD and adjustment issues related to returning to civilian life. Additionally, I work with older adults who might be experiencing depression, adjustment difficulties, or other mental health concerns.
(512) 262-9712 View (512) 262-9712
Photo of Denise Cleveland, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Dripping Springs, TX
Denise Cleveland
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dripping Springs, TX 78620
Waitlist for new clients
"Who do you want to be?" "How do you want to show up in your life?" These are significant questions. If you are struggling to find yourself and want to show up differently in your life, consider seeking counseling. Change is hard but it can be more successful with a little bit of assistance from a professional. I am well equipped to assist and have a warm, non-judgmental, caring way to guide you in pursuing change.
"Who do you want to be?" "How do you want to show up in your life?" These are significant questions. If you are struggling to find yourself and want to show up differently in your life, consider seeking counseling. Change is hard but it can be more successful with a little bit of assistance from a professional. I am well equipped to assist and have a warm, non-judgmental, caring way to guide you in pursuing change.
(512) 430-1774 View (512) 430-1774
Photo of Samaritan Center in Dripping Springs, TX
Samaritan Center
LCSW, LMFT, LPC, LAC
Not Verified Not Verified
Dripping Springs, TX 78620
Samaritan Center has been saving lives and giving hope to Central Texas families for more than 45 years. We envision a healthy and compassionate community where every individual achieves mental, physical, spiritual and social well-being. We heal hearts, provide hope, and enhance lives with a holistic approach to mental health for all ages, whole families and the military community. Since 2007, we have supported veterans and military families through our Hope for Heroes program. With 14 counselors and 2 acupuncturists, we have a unique approach to treating individuals and families.
Samaritan Center has been saving lives and giving hope to Central Texas families for more than 45 years. We envision a healthy and compassionate community where every individual achieves mental, physical, spiritual and social well-being. We heal hearts, provide hope, and enhance lives with a holistic approach to mental health for all ages, whole families and the military community. Since 2007, we have supported veterans and military families through our Hope for Heroes program. With 14 counselors and 2 acupuncturists, we have a unique approach to treating individuals and families.
(512) 271-4072 View (512) 271-4072
Photo of Katherine St George, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dripping Springs, TX
Katherine St George
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ATR
Verified Verified
Dripping Springs, TX 78620  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Art Therapist in San Antonio, TX. I hold a Master’s degree in Art Therapy/Counseling from Southwestern College in Santa Fe, NM with specialized classes in Children’s Mental Health. I work with individual children, teens, families and adults. I have worked with a variety of populations and settings including inpatient and outpatient care, residential facilities, and hospital settings centralized in trauma-informed care.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Art Therapist in San Antonio, TX. I hold a Master’s degree in Art Therapy/Counseling from Southwestern College in Santa Fe, NM with specialized classes in Children’s Mental Health. I work with individual children, teens, families and adults. I have worked with a variety of populations and settings including inpatient and outpatient care, residential facilities, and hospital settings centralized in trauma-informed care.
(512) 598-5467 View (512) 598-5467
Photo of Francisco J Morazan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dripping Springs, TX
Francisco J Morazan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dripping Springs, TX 78620  (Online Only)
In life we experience unpleasant moments during our journey with ups and downs; sometimes it can feel more overwhelming rather than positive. It might look like dissolving relationships personal or professional, difficulty expressing emotions, or anger getting the best of you. It could be spending too much time in your head than living in the moment and missing out in life.
In life we experience unpleasant moments during our journey with ups and downs; sometimes it can feel more overwhelming rather than positive. It might look like dissolving relationships personal or professional, difficulty expressing emotions, or anger getting the best of you. It could be spending too much time in your head than living in the moment and missing out in life.
(512) 686-5397 View (512) 686-5397
Photo of Carl Coccaro, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dripping Springs, TX
Carl Coccaro
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCDC, NCC
Verified Verified
Dripping Springs, TX 78620
My focus is on meeting the client from a holistic and integrative approach to therapy. There are many avenues to find motivation to achieve optimal health, as well as maintaining gains through recovery efforts. I find great passion in assisting the client to find their true sense of self (authentic self) through self-actualization, which includes self-image, self-esteem, and the ideal self. There's also a desire for positivity and purpose, healthy balanced thoughts, grounding and breathing through mindfulness, replacement of negative behaviors for positive, identifying strengths/solutions, and rewriting the story of their lives.
My focus is on meeting the client from a holistic and integrative approach to therapy. There are many avenues to find motivation to achieve optimal health, as well as maintaining gains through recovery efforts. I find great passion in assisting the client to find their true sense of self (authentic self) through self-actualization, which includes self-image, self-esteem, and the ideal self. There's also a desire for positivity and purpose, healthy balanced thoughts, grounding and breathing through mindfulness, replacement of negative behaviors for positive, identifying strengths/solutions, and rewriting the story of their lives.
(512) 270-7112 View (512) 270-7112
Photo of Deanna Graves, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dripping Springs, TX
Deanna Graves
Licensed Professional Counselor, CIMHP, RYT-200
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Dripping Springs, TX 78620  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I passionate about helping clients find a greater sense of ease when managing life stressors and a greater sense of overall fulfilment in life. I enjoy working with adults who are motivated to find new and more productive ways to move through challenging life transitions, move towards personal growth goals, manage parenting stressors, relationship stressors, and/or work stressors, and decrease symptoms of anxiety, depression, and anger. I have extensive training in anxiety management, mindfulness and breathwork, integrative health, and parenting (including fostering and foster to adopt).
I passionate about helping clients find a greater sense of ease when managing life stressors and a greater sense of overall fulfilment in life. I enjoy working with adults who are motivated to find new and more productive ways to move through challenging life transitions, move towards personal growth goals, manage parenting stressors, relationship stressors, and/or work stressors, and decrease symptoms of anxiety, depression, and anger. I have extensive training in anxiety management, mindfulness and breathwork, integrative health, and parenting (including fostering and foster to adopt).
(512) 882-0257 View (512) 882-0257

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Daniela Krotzer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Dripping Springs, TX
Dr. Daniela Krotzer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, EMDR-C, IFS-C, CDBT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Driftwood, TX 78619
She specializes in trauma and PTSD, grief, relationship issues, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, suicidal ideation, self-harm, depression, anxiety, and more.
The last years have been trying years for everyone. Perhaps they brought new behaviors from your partner, family member, or yourself. Maybe they reminded you of past traumas. Many have "big T" traumas like abuse or near-death experiences. We all have some "little t" traumas, like feeling rejected by others. Part of us gets stuck back to when we experienced the trauma. But you don't have to stay there! You can be free of the grip of both "big T" & "little t" traumas. These no longer have to affect you, your relationships, or many other things. Sign up today for a consultation at drdanielakrotzer.com.
She specializes in trauma and PTSD, grief, relationship issues, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, suicidal ideation, self-harm, depression, anxiety, and more.
The last years have been trying years for everyone. Perhaps they brought new behaviors from your partner, family member, or yourself. Maybe they reminded you of past traumas. Many have "big T" traumas like abuse or near-death experiences. We all have some "little t" traumas, like feeling rejected by others. Part of us gets stuck back to when we experienced the trauma. But you don't have to stay there! You can be free of the grip of both "big T" & "little t" traumas. These no longer have to affect you, your relationships, or many other things. Sign up today for a consultation at drdanielakrotzer.com.
(817) 396-7384 View (817) 396-7384
Photo of Tony Vitela, LCSW, SAP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Dripping Springs, TX
Tony Vitela, LCSW, SAP
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SAP
Verified Verified
Bee Cave, TX 78738
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 Angela Tierney, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dripping Springs, TX
Angela Tierney
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Driftwood, TX 78619
My work includes self harm, eating disorders, alternative lifestyles, sexual identity issues, depression, bipolar disorder, and anxiety.
I have been working with Young Adults (age 18 and older), predominantly female or gender queer, for about 19 years now and I love it. My goal in therapy is to help you get through the difficulties life brings your way. By providing a nurturing, comfortable environment, it allows you to relax and trust me and the counseling process. My positive, strength-building style of counseling means that I listen to you, understand what you are going through, see the strengths and positive parts, and set goals for what is not working. We will work together to figure it out.
My work includes self harm, eating disorders, alternative lifestyles, sexual identity issues, depression, bipolar disorder, and anxiety.
I have been working with Young Adults (age 18 and older), predominantly female or gender queer, for about 19 years now and I love it. My goal in therapy is to help you get through the difficulties life brings your way. By providing a nurturing, comfortable environment, it allows you to relax and trust me and the counseling process. My positive, strength-building style of counseling means that I listen to you, understand what you are going through, see the strengths and positive parts, and set goals for what is not working. We will work together to figure it out.
(512) 553-8902 View (512) 553-8902
Photo of Sara Manisco Chapo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Dripping Springs, TX
Sara Manisco Chapo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CPP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78737
Waitlist for new clients
Hi, I am Sara. I enjoy being the witness of positive change and the healing power of human relationships. Whatever the issue, I am honored to take part in your personal journey toward a better life. I can be your guide to help you process and envision the steps towards whatever goal you seek. I have trained in several evidence based models, including Child-Parent Psychotherapy (CPP) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). I work with young children, adolescents, and adults.
Hi, I am Sara. I enjoy being the witness of positive change and the healing power of human relationships. Whatever the issue, I am honored to take part in your personal journey toward a better life. I can be your guide to help you process and envision the steps towards whatever goal you seek. I have trained in several evidence based models, including Child-Parent Psychotherapy (CPP) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). I work with young children, adolescents, and adults.
(512) 866-2459 View (512) 866-2459
Photo of Sara Luckenbill, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Dripping Springs, TX
Sara Luckenbill
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPC-A
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78737  (Online Only)
Often our lives are taken over with such significant feelings of anxiety, depression, and hopelessness. Therapy is such a great tool to gain self worth, clarity, and healing! You are allowed to take up space. You have worth and value. You are strong and resilient. You can live a life that is fulfilling, and you can get out of the pit of despair! You deserve to know that you have so much value and deserve to be the main character of your life. You deserve to have hope for the future and to feel empowered about who you are. You are not alone.
Often our lives are taken over with such significant feelings of anxiety, depression, and hopelessness. Therapy is such a great tool to gain self worth, clarity, and healing! You are allowed to take up space. You have worth and value. You are strong and resilient. You can live a life that is fulfilling, and you can get out of the pit of despair! You deserve to know that you have so much value and deserve to be the main character of your life. You deserve to have hope for the future and to feel empowered about who you are. You are not alone.
(737) 727-2018 View (737) 727-2018
Photo of Anisha Bush, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dripping Springs, TX
Anisha Bush
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78738  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Deciding to take that first step to better yourself and change your life is tough when you are afraid the person you have chosen to help you just may not be able to or even understands your needs. As your therapist, I recognize wholeheartedly how important that first step is. Together, one of our focuses initially is building confidence, comfort, and rapport with each other, so that as we walk together through your issues, you can feel good about doing so. We will develop a plan of care specifically for your individual needs rather using than one specific method based on “identifying markers".
Deciding to take that first step to better yourself and change your life is tough when you are afraid the person you have chosen to help you just may not be able to or even understands your needs. As your therapist, I recognize wholeheartedly how important that first step is. Together, one of our focuses initially is building confidence, comfort, and rapport with each other, so that as we walk together through your issues, you can feel good about doing so. We will develop a plan of care specifically for your individual needs rather using than one specific method based on “identifying markers".
(512) 543-2910 View (512) 543-2910
Photo of Laura Bafford Leslie, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Dripping Springs, TX
Laura Bafford Leslie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78738  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
If you still believe, "it was my fault," let me unequivocally say, "No, it wasn't." If you hold the sense that you are not good enough, I am here to assure you that we are all born inherently good. You were never, ever responsible for what happened to you, no matter what the circumstances. Are you still believing that you will never get over the past, are destined to spend a life stuck and incapable of loving yourself or having healthy relationships? Please know that there is a path out of your trauma. Take courage. Take heart. Your path to healing is about to begin.
If you still believe, "it was my fault," let me unequivocally say, "No, it wasn't." If you hold the sense that you are not good enough, I am here to assure you that we are all born inherently good. You were never, ever responsible for what happened to you, no matter what the circumstances. Are you still believing that you will never get over the past, are destined to spend a life stuck and incapable of loving yourself or having healthy relationships? Please know that there is a path out of your trauma. Take courage. Take heart. Your path to healing is about to begin.
(512) 643-7142 View (512) 643-7142
Photo of Penny Pine Dove, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Dripping Springs, TX
Penny Pine Dove
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Spicewood, TX 78669  (Online Only)
One day, maybe a long time ago or maybe last month, something really bad happened. You were not expecting it. Before this happened you imagined yourself like one of those parents who lifts a car off their toddler to save them. You thought you would be able to fight or get away. Unfortunately that's not the way it happened. You were so scared. Now you feel broken. Your worries and dreams say it will happen again. You are on constant alert for danger. You try to work out how you could have avoided or escaped. You've lost trust in loved ones. You try to stay busy and numb the pain.
One day, maybe a long time ago or maybe last month, something really bad happened. You were not expecting it. Before this happened you imagined yourself like one of those parents who lifts a car off their toddler to save them. You thought you would be able to fight or get away. Unfortunately that's not the way it happened. You were so scared. Now you feel broken. Your worries and dreams say it will happen again. You are on constant alert for danger. You try to work out how you could have avoided or escaped. You've lost trust in loved ones. You try to stay busy and numb the pain.
(512) 598-6516 View (512) 598-6516
Photo of Scott Wayne Melgren, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Dripping Springs, TX
Scott Wayne Melgren
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78738  (Online Only)
My personal belief is that everyone is doing their best with the tools they have. I utilize an individualized approach rooted in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing to strengthen resiliency and provide coping skills to overcome daily life stressors. If you have ever found yourself stuck and desire a way to navigate and work through your personal challanges, together we can create that change.
My personal belief is that everyone is doing their best with the tools they have. I utilize an individualized approach rooted in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing to strengthen resiliency and provide coping skills to overcome daily life stressors. If you have ever found yourself stuck and desire a way to navigate and work through your personal challanges, together we can create that change.
(512) 812-9773 View (512) 812-9773

See more therapy options for Dripping Springs


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.