Photo of Tom Walter, Licensed Professional Counselor in Ennis, TX
Tom Walter
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Ennis, TX 75119
It is my belief that therapy begins with a safe and respectful environment where individual and relational needs are compassionately addressed. I work diligently to provide that environment where healing and growth can take place. Together we will work to build a trusting relationship and to identify changes you wish to make in order to support positive growth in your life. With twenty five years in the field of mental health, and as a therapist, husband, and father, I draw from a broad range of life experiences, as a roadmap into my client's world.
It is my belief that therapy begins with a safe and respectful environment where individual and relational needs are compassionately addressed. I work diligently to provide that environment where healing and growth can take place. Together we will work to build a trusting relationship and to identify changes you wish to make in order to support positive growth in your life. With twenty five years in the field of mental health, and as a therapist, husband, and father, I draw from a broad range of life experiences, as a roadmap into my client's world.
(972) 349-0239 View (972) 349-0239

Online Therapists

Photo of Daniel Meisenheimer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ennis, TX
Daniel Meisenheimer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Richardson, TX 75080  (Online Only)
Do you find that you have always felt different or highly sensitive? Are you anxious and overwhelmed in social situations or maybe noting that you have sensory sensitivities, or processing issues that make certain interactions challenging? This can be very alienating and exhausting to manage and can lead to self esteem issues and challenges like anxiety, depression, and increased instances of trauma. You may already have a diagnosis such as Autism, ADHD, Schizophrenia or Bipolar. In my therapy, I pull away from harmful "cure" based approaches, and instead, into approaches that nurture self-acceptance and healing.
Do you find that you have always felt different or highly sensitive? Are you anxious and overwhelmed in social situations or maybe noting that you have sensory sensitivities, or processing issues that make certain interactions challenging? This can be very alienating and exhausting to manage and can lead to self esteem issues and challenges like anxiety, depression, and increased instances of trauma. You may already have a diagnosis such as Autism, ADHD, Schizophrenia or Bipolar. In my therapy, I pull away from harmful "cure" based approaches, and instead, into approaches that nurture self-acceptance and healing.
(214) 239-9159 View (214) 239-9159
Photo of Monica (Love The Beach) Ferraro, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Ennis, TX
Monica (Love The Beach) Ferraro
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, CA AMFT, MA/EMDR, DV/P&V, IFS, NP, TX LPCA
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75071  (Online Only)
Welcome Couples and young adults ready to make the "shifts" in life to find THE thing that you're missing. First step, awareness; then reflection and finally forward thinking options. It's scary, but let's examine what is and tackle the fear; THIS is where the biggest growth begins! Neuroplasticity is the tool; you have it. I work with trauma, anxiety, bipolar, depression, grief, sexual abuse/rape, addiction, nonstop thoughts, low self esteem and nightmares. Is peace worth seeking? Let's get after it CA and Texas!
Welcome Couples and young adults ready to make the "shifts" in life to find THE thing that you're missing. First step, awareness; then reflection and finally forward thinking options. It's scary, but let's examine what is and tackle the fear; THIS is where the biggest growth begins! Neuroplasticity is the tool; you have it. I work with trauma, anxiety, bipolar, depression, grief, sexual abuse/rape, addiction, nonstop thoughts, low self esteem and nightmares. Is peace worth seeking? Let's get after it CA and Texas!
(619) 259-6498 View (619) 259-6498
Photo of Spandana Maitra, Licensed Professional Counselor in Ennis, TX
Spandana Maitra
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Coppell, TX 75019
I welcome any individual into the space of counseling and working on personal goals. Whether you struggle with anxiety, depression, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, or need some support through a life transition - my hope is that you find safety and comfort within the space we create together. The hardest part about therapy is making that first call, and for you to have done that is a brave thing. The main hope I have for you is the courage to be vulnerable in this nonjudgmental space - we can get there together and start pursuing the life you want for yourself!
I welcome any individual into the space of counseling and working on personal goals. Whether you struggle with anxiety, depression, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, or need some support through a life transition - my hope is that you find safety and comfort within the space we create together. The hardest part about therapy is making that first call, and for you to have done that is a brave thing. The main hope I have for you is the courage to be vulnerable in this nonjudgmental space - we can get there together and start pursuing the life you want for yourself!
(469) 489-3913 View (469) 489-3913
Photo of Krystal Wurm, Licensed Professional Counselor in Ennis, TX
Krystal Wurm
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, PhD-C
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75071
I identify as a cis female identifying as non-binary that prefers the pronouns she/they born in the United States. 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 depression, anxiety, OCD, trauma, marital stress, parent-child difficulties, domestic violence, substance abuse, bipolar disorder, and anger issues. My specialties include working with the lgbtqia2s+ community and working with teens!
I identify as a cis female identifying as non-binary that prefers the pronouns she/they born in the United States. 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 depression, anxiety, OCD, trauma, marital stress, parent-child difficulties, domestic violence, substance abuse, bipolar disorder, and anger issues. My specialties include working with the lgbtqia2s+ community and working with teens!
(469) 551-8346 View (469) 551-8346
Photo of Rachel Wyatt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ennis, TX
Rachel Wyatt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Richardson, TX 75081
Waitlist for new clients
I work with LGBTQ+ (+kink), anxiety, BPD, depression, PMDD/PCOS, bipolar disorders, PTSD, trauma (includes: emotional, religious, etc).
Hello, looking for a place where you can feel safe to be vulnerable, gain insight and understanding, as well as work towards your desired goal(s)? I understand that we all have unique lives, experiences, and circumstances that can affect the way we think, behave, believe, and express ourselves. Being unique, having your own story to tell, and learning to navigate life is a part of our journey. Therapy can help with navigating these life changes as we grow, adapt, revert, thrive, and survive.
I work with LGBTQ+ (+kink), anxiety, BPD, depression, PMDD/PCOS, bipolar disorders, PTSD, trauma (includes: emotional, religious, etc).
Hello, looking for a place where you can feel safe to be vulnerable, gain insight and understanding, as well as work towards your desired goal(s)? I understand that we all have unique lives, experiences, and circumstances that can affect the way we think, behave, believe, and express ourselves. Being unique, having your own story to tell, and learning to navigate life is a part of our journey. Therapy can help with navigating these life changes as we grow, adapt, revert, thrive, and survive.
(214) 206-4105 View (214) 206-4105
Photo of Chris E Goetz, Licensed Professional Counselor in Ennis, TX
Chris E Goetz
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75211
My clinical expertise includes treating MDD, Bipolar I & II, Schizoaffective, BPD, Dual-diagnosis and SUDS.
My motto is, “reveal the root, expose the lie and heal the wounded spirit.” It is my passion to work with those who struggle with severe trauma and emotional abuse. Based on the comfort level of the patient - faith, spirituality and prayer can often be a vital part of the therapeutic process. I strive to meet the unique and individual needs of each client and adjust my approach accordingly. I truly consider it an honor and a privilege to partner with you in your journey towards wholeness. There is a plan and a purpose for your life, full of unique strengths and talents. My goal is to help you become all that you were created to be.
My clinical expertise includes treating MDD, Bipolar I & II, Schizoaffective, BPD, Dual-diagnosis and SUDS.
My motto is, “reveal the root, expose the lie and heal the wounded spirit.” It is my passion to work with those who struggle with severe trauma and emotional abuse. Based on the comfort level of the patient - faith, spirituality and prayer can often be a vital part of the therapeutic process. I strive to meet the unique and individual needs of each client and adjust my approach accordingly. I truly consider it an honor and a privilege to partner with you in your journey towards wholeness. There is a plan and a purpose for your life, full of unique strengths and talents. My goal is to help you become all that you were created to be.
(214) 206-4570 View (214) 206-4570
Photo of Connie M. Siciliano Avila, Psychologist in Ennis, TX
Connie M. Siciliano Avila
Psychologist, PhD, LP, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Rockwall, TX 75087
My focus is on trauma, addiction, and relationships. Do you want to get control of your life, emotions or lack of emotions, stop problem behaviors, improve self-esteem, improve relationships, cope, and stop harmful thoughts? I have extensive experience in clinical and nonclinical settings with issues, such as abuse, relationships, addictions, depression, anxiety, dissociation, PTSD, alcohol abuse, and bipolar disorders. Also, past client concerns included: personality disorders, grief, anger, divorce, parenting, codependency, GLBTQ, multicultural, spiritual, DID, and men/women issues. Call for a free consultation.
My focus is on trauma, addiction, and relationships. Do you want to get control of your life, emotions or lack of emotions, stop problem behaviors, improve self-esteem, improve relationships, cope, and stop harmful thoughts? I have extensive experience in clinical and nonclinical settings with issues, such as abuse, relationships, addictions, depression, anxiety, dissociation, PTSD, alcohol abuse, and bipolar disorders. Also, past client concerns included: personality disorders, grief, anger, divorce, parenting, codependency, GLBTQ, multicultural, spiritual, DID, and men/women issues. Call for a free consultation.
(214) 830-9879 View (214) 830-9879
Photo of Aleksandra Bessent, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Ennis, TX
Aleksandra Bessent
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, ECFMG-, cert, MD, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Temple, TX 76501
I specialize in serving individuals experiencing OCD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, borderline personality disorder, grief, infidelity and more.
Are you trying to cope with constant worry, intrusive thoughts, trauma triggers, sadness or anger? Would you like to improve your relationships with partner/spouse/family? Are you struggling to recover from childhood trauma or narcissistic abuse, adjust to major life changes, such as acute or chronic disease, divorce, death of a loved person, career transition? There are times in life when we need professional help to feel better and live a more fulfilling life. I am here to help you to deal with distress, grief, sense of despair, get your symptoms under control, heal from trauma and experience happiness.
I specialize in serving individuals experiencing OCD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, borderline personality disorder, grief, infidelity and more.
Are you trying to cope with constant worry, intrusive thoughts, trauma triggers, sadness or anger? Would you like to improve your relationships with partner/spouse/family? Are you struggling to recover from childhood trauma or narcissistic abuse, adjust to major life changes, such as acute or chronic disease, divorce, death of a loved person, career transition? There are times in life when we need professional help to feel better and live a more fulfilling life. I am here to help you to deal with distress, grief, sense of despair, get your symptoms under control, heal from trauma and experience happiness.
(254) 613-8558 View (254) 613-8558
Photo of Mathias Ngwa, Psychological Associate in Ennis, TX
Mathias Ngwa
Psychological Associate, PsyD, ABSNP, LPA, ICP
Verified Verified
Arlington, TX 76006
At home video-tele-assessment for anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, psychotic and personality.
Are you looking for a psychological/neuropsychological evaluation and/or a medication free treatment for attention, sleep, migraine, anxiety, depression, stress, PTSD, headache, or traumatic brain injury problems? Are you a struggling learner seeking ways to improve performance at school, sports or work? Do you have a history of autism spectrum, ADD/ADHD, fetal alcohol syndrome, language and communication problems, Down’s Syndrome, epilepsy, traumatic brain injury, concussion, stroke, memory difficulties, chronic illness, motor and balance coordination, developmental delay, Parkinson’s, or multiple sclerosis?
At home video-tele-assessment for anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, psychotic and personality.
Are you looking for a psychological/neuropsychological evaluation and/or a medication free treatment for attention, sleep, migraine, anxiety, depression, stress, PTSD, headache, or traumatic brain injury problems? Are you a struggling learner seeking ways to improve performance at school, sports or work? Do you have a history of autism spectrum, ADD/ADHD, fetal alcohol syndrome, language and communication problems, Down’s Syndrome, epilepsy, traumatic brain injury, concussion, stroke, memory difficulties, chronic illness, motor and balance coordination, developmental delay, Parkinson’s, or multiple sclerosis?
(682) 204-6546 View (682) 204-6546
Photo of Brandi Solanki, Licensed Professional Counselor in Ennis, TX
Brandi Solanki
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LAC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waco, TX 76701
Ever feel like this counseling thing just isn't for you? That traditional talk therapy just goes in circles with some progress but you end up in the same spot. You think, "Maybe I'm too broken." Getting stuck in anxiety, depression, defensiveness, disconnection, etc. can feel never-ending. Like we are always just trying to make it through life rather than fully experience it. Your brain and body is built to help you survive this world. So, when we have a history of trauma our brain and body learns to always be on alert for danger. You're not broken, just stuck in protection modes and your body can learn to find a sense of safety.
Ever feel like this counseling thing just isn't for you? That traditional talk therapy just goes in circles with some progress but you end up in the same spot. You think, "Maybe I'm too broken." Getting stuck in anxiety, depression, defensiveness, disconnection, etc. can feel never-ending. Like we are always just trying to make it through life rather than fully experience it. Your brain and body is built to help you survive this world. So, when we have a history of trauma our brain and body learns to always be on alert for danger. You're not broken, just stuck in protection modes and your body can learn to find a sense of safety.
(254) 347-3510 View (254) 347-3510
Photo of Ashley Hendricks, Licensed Professional Counselor in Ennis, TX
Ashley Hendricks
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, TX 76015
Sleepless nights, stress, feeling empty, angry, anxious and confused are all ways the body communicates with the mind. Most symptoms are the body's solution to unresolved or ignored problems. Together, we can find the problems at the heart of your symptoms. We will work towards resolution so you can feel better for the long term. It is important to know that this does not mean coming into a session and being asked to recount all the bad things that have happened. Healing happens in the here and now.
Sleepless nights, stress, feeling empty, angry, anxious and confused are all ways the body communicates with the mind. Most symptoms are the body's solution to unresolved or ignored problems. Together, we can find the problems at the heart of your symptoms. We will work towards resolution so you can feel better for the long term. It is important to know that this does not mean coming into a session and being asked to recount all the bad things that have happened. Healing happens in the here and now.
(214) 225-1353 View (214) 225-1353
Photo of Dr. Brandi Buckner, Licensed Professional Counselor in Ennis, TX
Dr. Brandi Buckner
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Weatherford, TX 76086
Psychological pain is real. It can motivate you to reach out for counseling, look within yourself and learn to deal with people in your life. The more you learn about yourself individually and within relationships, the more confidence and happiness you will achieve. I have been helping individuals, couples, families, and children for 25 years. I will listen and help you identify themes, patterns, and belief systems in your life that are causing you discomfort and pain. I will provide you with Information and knowledge to use outside of our sessions. Self knowledge will empower you!
Psychological pain is real. It can motivate you to reach out for counseling, look within yourself and learn to deal with people in your life. The more you learn about yourself individually and within relationships, the more confidence and happiness you will achieve. I have been helping individuals, couples, families, and children for 25 years. I will listen and help you identify themes, patterns, and belief systems in your life that are causing you discomfort and pain. I will provide you with Information and knowledge to use outside of our sessions. Self knowledge will empower you!
(817) 200-7689 View (817) 200-7689
Photo of Luis Perez, Licensed Professional Counselor in Ennis, TX
Luis Perez
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCDC, SEP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75230
We all are capable of living happy and healthy lives. Over the years, I have supported the diverse needs of my clients through the strength of the therapeutic relationship, nurturing the trust and acceptance required for positive change. I consider it an honor to embark on this journey with you, respecting your experience as it has provided a foundation for healing. I would like to help guide you in discovering personal balance and individualized self-worth, as we work to reveal the seemingly lost or hidden strengths buried within.
We all are capable of living happy and healthy lives. Over the years, I have supported the diverse needs of my clients through the strength of the therapeutic relationship, nurturing the trust and acceptance required for positive change. I consider it an honor to embark on this journey with you, respecting your experience as it has provided a foundation for healing. I would like to help guide you in discovering personal balance and individualized self-worth, as we work to reveal the seemingly lost or hidden strengths buried within.
(469) 654-4729 View (469) 654-4729
Photo of Adriana Ibarra, Licensed Professional Counselor in Ennis, TX
Adriana Ibarra
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75244
In practice I use a pragmatic, results-oriented approach and am not tethered to one behavioral health modality. Rather, recognizing each patient has unique needs, I draw from many therapeutic approaches that best fit each patient. In my practice, I can quickly assess which techniques will work best to meet each client's individual needs to show patients that they can have the right tools to reach their optimal comfort level in their careers, families, and relationships. The goal is bridging the gap and finding the most productive pathway between where clients are and where they want to be.
In practice I use a pragmatic, results-oriented approach and am not tethered to one behavioral health modality. Rather, recognizing each patient has unique needs, I draw from many therapeutic approaches that best fit each patient. In my practice, I can quickly assess which techniques will work best to meet each client's individual needs to show patients that they can have the right tools to reach their optimal comfort level in their careers, families, and relationships. The goal is bridging the gap and finding the most productive pathway between where clients are and where they want to be.
(469) 630-6796 View (469) 630-6796
Photo of The Branch Counseling PLLC, Kelly Ayala , Licensed Professional Counselor in Ennis, TX
The Branch Counseling PLLC, Kelly Ayala
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S, RYT-500, MIAAN, EMDR
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75244
You have some ideas of what you want & what your life could be like but your body struggles to let you have it. Your past whisper doubts to you so decision making becomes an endless narrative of what if’s, doom and if you’re doing the right thing. The fear of the unknown imprisons your voice and most of your true self never gets seen. You want the confidence to trust your own knowing & have a peaceful life but sometimes this even scares you. Life has mostly shown you that you can only rely on yourself & it can get lonely, especially in childhood but now you're ready for healthy relationships and a chance to thrive.
You have some ideas of what you want & what your life could be like but your body struggles to let you have it. Your past whisper doubts to you so decision making becomes an endless narrative of what if’s, doom and if you’re doing the right thing. The fear of the unknown imprisons your voice and most of your true self never gets seen. You want the confidence to trust your own knowing & have a peaceful life but sometimes this even scares you. Life has mostly shown you that you can only rely on yourself & it can get lonely, especially in childhood but now you're ready for healthy relationships and a chance to thrive.
(972) 591-7915 View (972) 591-7915
Photo of Linda Doutre, Licensed Professional Counselor in Ennis, TX
Linda Doutre
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, LMFT, LPC, CBT, ETT
Verified Verified
Arlington, TX 76013
I am a developmental therapist with over 30 years experience in psychotherapy and have extended training in Gestalt therapy, Bioenergetic Analysis ( a somatic relational therapy) and Emotional Transformational Therapy (ETT)therapy using different protocols of color and light), sound resonance healing with tuning forks; also couple and family therapy, diagnostic developmental testing/TOVA, and professional coaching for relationship issues, and professional development. In my years of practice, I have explored many different and effective ways of working with clients. I am Teletherapy certified and a certified life coach.
I am a developmental therapist with over 30 years experience in psychotherapy and have extended training in Gestalt therapy, Bioenergetic Analysis ( a somatic relational therapy) and Emotional Transformational Therapy (ETT)therapy using different protocols of color and light), sound resonance healing with tuning forks; also couple and family therapy, diagnostic developmental testing/TOVA, and professional coaching for relationship issues, and professional development. In my years of practice, I have explored many different and effective ways of working with clients. I am Teletherapy certified and a certified life coach.
(817) 803-5787 View (817) 803-5787
Photo of Planting Seeds Counseling & Coaching, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Ennis, TX
Planting Seeds Counseling & Coaching, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
Frisco, TX 75034
Planting Seeds is a group practice with locations in Frisco and Prosper. We have a staff that offers a variety of techniques and approaches for clients ranging in age from 4 years old through adulthood. We offer individual, couples, family and group therapy as well as relational and corporate coaching. At our Prosper location, we also offer yoga classes as we believe in a holistic approach to self-care and wellness. Life can be difficult and full of unexpected surprises that often knock us off of our feet. If you are searching for a clinician to partner with you as your journey towards health, please call us today.
Planting Seeds is a group practice with locations in Frisco and Prosper. We have a staff that offers a variety of techniques and approaches for clients ranging in age from 4 years old through adulthood. We offer individual, couples, family and group therapy as well as relational and corporate coaching. At our Prosper location, we also offer yoga classes as we believe in a holistic approach to self-care and wellness. Life can be difficult and full of unexpected surprises that often knock us off of our feet. If you are searching for a clinician to partner with you as your journey towards health, please call us today.
(214) 974-3323 View (214) 974-3323
Photo of Cassandra Holt Kimbell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Ennis, TX
Cassandra Holt Kimbell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, LPCC-S, NCC, EMDR, CIT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75206
Everyone deserves to feel balanced and deserves to have a safe space to let go and share. Nobody should ever feel alone or always have to be “the strong one”. I use an eclectic model- combining pieces of CBT, SFBT, EMDR and Mindfulness-Based Practices and customize them to fit the person in front of me. As you speak, I am listening, taking it all in, and deciding which pieces may be of most help to you and your life. I specialize in working with creatives and neurodivergent humans. I go above and beyond to provide the best care for my clients free of judgement. (My caseload is on a short waitlist but scheduling EMDR intensives)
Everyone deserves to feel balanced and deserves to have a safe space to let go and share. Nobody should ever feel alone or always have to be “the strong one”. I use an eclectic model- combining pieces of CBT, SFBT, EMDR and Mindfulness-Based Practices and customize them to fit the person in front of me. As you speak, I am listening, taking it all in, and deciding which pieces may be of most help to you and your life. I specialize in working with creatives and neurodivergent humans. I go above and beyond to provide the best care for my clients free of judgement. (My caseload is on a short waitlist but scheduling EMDR intensives)
(214) 480-4943 View (214) 480-4943
Photo of Alicia Wallace, Licensed Professional Counselor in Ennis, TX
Alicia Wallace
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Aubrey, TX 76227  (Online Only)
I work with a diverse array of clients, including active and retired military, police, and other first responders, as well as victim/survivors of trauma, chronic illness, substance use, and the LGBTQ+ population. I have skills for the variety of concerns that my populations encounter, including, complex PTSD, trauma, severe anxiety, adjustment, re-integration, communication, TBI/ABIs, phobias, substance use, and mood dysregulation. Most importantly, I work with clients that come how they are, how they can, and with everything they have.
I work with a diverse array of clients, including active and retired military, police, and other first responders, as well as victim/survivors of trauma, chronic illness, substance use, and the LGBTQ+ population. I have skills for the variety of concerns that my populations encounter, including, complex PTSD, trauma, severe anxiety, adjustment, re-integration, communication, TBI/ABIs, phobias, substance use, and mood dysregulation. Most importantly, I work with clients that come how they are, how they can, and with everything they have.
(940) 535-7274 View (940) 535-7274

See more therapy options for Ennis

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.