Photo of Andrea Perry, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fannin County, TX
Andrea Perry
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Bonham, TX 75418
Thank you for your interest in my psychological services. My educational background includes a Masters degree in Professional Counseling, and a Doctorate (PhD) in Counselor Education and Supervision. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Paris, Texas with 10 years of experience practicing. I work with clients who are dealing with a wide range of concerns including Grief, Crisis Intervention, Trauma & Serious Illness, PTSD, Depression, Anxiety/Panic, Schizophrenia, OCD, Bipolar Disorder, Personality Disorders, family of origin concerns & exploration, & many other psychological & behavioral challenges.
Thank you for your interest in my psychological services. My educational background includes a Masters degree in Professional Counseling, and a Doctorate (PhD) in Counselor Education and Supervision. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Paris, Texas with 10 years of experience practicing. I work with clients who are dealing with a wide range of concerns including Grief, Crisis Intervention, Trauma & Serious Illness, PTSD, Depression, Anxiety/Panic, Schizophrenia, OCD, Bipolar Disorder, Personality Disorders, family of origin concerns & exploration, & many other psychological & behavioral challenges.
(430) 209-3335 View (430) 209-3335
Photo of Anthony P. Blackburn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fannin County, TX
Anthony P. Blackburn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCDC, MBA, MA
Verified Verified
Bonham, TX 75418
Same day appointments possible, but I don't file insurance. It is my pleasure to work with people from various backgrounds, cultures, and experiences. My 20 years in the military and five plus decades of living has taught me life can be complicated, and people often get overwhelmed. Rather than condemn them I prefer to help them on their journey to a better quality of life. One of the greatest pleasures in my life is seeing my clients overcome their struggles.
Same day appointments possible, but I don't file insurance. It is my pleasure to work with people from various backgrounds, cultures, and experiences. My 20 years in the military and five plus decades of living has taught me life can be complicated, and people often get overwhelmed. Rather than condemn them I prefer to help them on their journey to a better quality of life. One of the greatest pleasures in my life is seeing my clients overcome their struggles.
(903) 361-6083 View (903) 361-6083
Photo of Sarah Elizabeth Sumpter, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fannin County, TX
Sarah Elizabeth Sumpter
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Bonham, TX 75418  (Online Only)
Are you needing therapy to fit into your busy lifestyle and would like to see someone on Saturdays or weekday evenings? Maybe you are experiencing stress, burnout, depression, anxiety, or something else that is making you feel off. Are you on the verge of a major life change and trying to figure out your next steps? Looking for support for caregivers, educators, newly diagnosed with a chronic illness or mental health disorders? Do you just need a supportive and encouraging advocate in your corner? We all have different roles and identities often at the same time. Balancing it all can be tricky. Let's work together!
Are you needing therapy to fit into your busy lifestyle and would like to see someone on Saturdays or weekday evenings? Maybe you are experiencing stress, burnout, depression, anxiety, or something else that is making you feel off. Are you on the verge of a major life change and trying to figure out your next steps? Looking for support for caregivers, educators, newly diagnosed with a chronic illness or mental health disorders? Do you just need a supportive and encouraging advocate in your corner? We all have different roles and identities often at the same time. Balancing it all can be tricky. Let's work together!
(214) 225-3912 View (214) 225-3912

Online Therapists

Photo of Joy Fuller, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fannin County, TX
Joy Fuller
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCLC
Verified Verified
Flower Mound, TX 75028
I use positive, individualized therapeutic approaches to help my clients heal from anxiety, depression, bipolar, trauma, and personality disorders. I also offer marital and premarital counseling.
I use positive, individualized therapeutic approaches to help my clients heal from anxiety, depression, bipolar, trauma, and personality disorders. I also offer marital and premarital counseling.
(214) 377-1547 View (214) 377-1547
Photo of Chris E Goetz, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fannin County, 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 Krista Woods, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fannin County, TX
Krista Woods
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75243
Have you been struggling with feelings of sadness, anxiety or panic attacks? Or are you tired of people using you or struggling to get motivated? I provide compassionate care while providing the tools and information to help you heal. Other challenges like drugs/alcohol, bipolar disorder; or if you're not sure what the problem is but need help and support, I will work with you to help you live a better, healthier life. My extensive experience also includes helping children, teens and adults impacted by foster care, have been adopted, are birth parents, or who are adoptive/ foster parents.
Have you been struggling with feelings of sadness, anxiety or panic attacks? Or are you tired of people using you or struggling to get motivated? I provide compassionate care while providing the tools and information to help you heal. Other challenges like drugs/alcohol, bipolar disorder; or if you're not sure what the problem is but need help and support, I will work with you to help you live a better, healthier life. My extensive experience also includes helping children, teens and adults impacted by foster care, have been adopted, are birth parents, or who are adoptive/ foster parents.
(940) 220-9758 View (940) 220-9758
Photo of Dr. Reed J. Robinson, Psychologist in Fannin County, TX
Dr. Reed J. Robinson
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75219
Robinson has extensive expertise in the treatment of major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, anxiety, PTSD, and substance use disorders.
Dr. Robinson is board certified in Clinical Psychology and has been practicing psychology and providing evidence-based therapies for over 15 years. Prior to opening his private practice, he had a distinguished career as a clinician and clinical leader at the Dallas VA (where he served as Assistant Chief of Psychology) and then UT Southwestern Medical Center (where we was Director of Psychology Services and continues to serve as an Associate Professor in the Dept of Psychiatry.
Robinson has extensive expertise in the treatment of major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, anxiety, PTSD, and substance use disorders.
Dr. Robinson is board certified in Clinical Psychology and has been practicing psychology and providing evidence-based therapies for over 15 years. Prior to opening his private practice, he had a distinguished career as a clinician and clinical leader at the Dallas VA (where he served as Assistant Chief of Psychology) and then UT Southwestern Medical Center (where we was Director of Psychology Services and continues to serve as an Associate Professor in the Dept of Psychiatry.
(469) 373-7886 View (469) 373-7886
Photo of Lisa Wallace, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fannin County, TX
Lisa Wallace
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCDC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75254  (Online Only)
I have experience working with a wide variety of populations, specializing in helping adults who struggle with depression, anxiety, bipolar, ADHD, or substance use.
Have you ever looked at your reflection and wondered who you are? Do you ever feel lost or wonder where you are headed? Confession- I have. I realized later in life that my calling was to become a therapist. Long before returning to college, I received on-the-job training through my own experiences as a mother, wife, friend, and as an individual struggling with depression and anxiety. These experiences helped prepare me for my role as a therapist. Just like my clients, I looked for a therapist to talk to, one who would listen and be able to understand where I was coming from.
I have experience working with a wide variety of populations, specializing in helping adults who struggle with depression, anxiety, bipolar, ADHD, or substance use.
Have you ever looked at your reflection and wondered who you are? Do you ever feel lost or wonder where you are headed? Confession- I have. I realized later in life that my calling was to become a therapist. Long before returning to college, I received on-the-job training through my own experiences as a mother, wife, friend, and as an individual struggling with depression and anxiety. These experiences helped prepare me for my role as a therapist. Just like my clients, I looked for a therapist to talk to, one who would listen and be able to understand where I was coming from.
(737) 214-4935 View (737) 214-4935
Photo of Jennifer Brobst, Psychologist in Fannin County, TX
Jennifer Brobst
Psychologist, PhD, LSSP
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75024
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and a Licensed Specialist in School Psychology. I love working with adults, teenagers, children, and families. I have experience helping patients with depression, anxiety, bipolar, autism and other developmental disabilities, OCD, ADHD, family concerns, parenting stress, career and academic concerns, as well as traumatic experiences. In addition, I have extensive experience in grief therapy during times of loss, such as in a time of death, divorce, and other significant life changes. I also enjoy working on goals of self-improvement, self-awareness, and compassion with my patients.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and a Licensed Specialist in School Psychology. I love working with adults, teenagers, children, and families. I have experience helping patients with depression, anxiety, bipolar, autism and other developmental disabilities, OCD, ADHD, family concerns, parenting stress, career and academic concerns, as well as traumatic experiences. In addition, I have extensive experience in grief therapy during times of loss, such as in a time of death, divorce, and other significant life changes. I also enjoy working on goals of self-improvement, self-awareness, and compassion with my patients.
(972) 833-0114 View (972) 833-0114
Photo of Mick Veasey, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fannin County, TX
Mick Veasey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75240
I work with individuals who struggle with relationship issues, addiction, anxiety, depression, personality disorders, interpersonal conflict, bipolar disorder, and everyday problems and obstacles in life.
Struggling? You don't have to go alone...... Navigating life can sometimes lead us to feel disconnected from our close relationships, the people around us, or even ourselves. We may be sailing smoothly through life at times, and at others - the unexpected happens and we are not sure what to do, or how to recover. This can lead to a profound sense of loneliness, isolation, and disconnection. If you find yourself struggling or having difficulty finding meaning and purpose - you are not alone. To struggle is to be human, and I would be honored to help you uncover the answers you seek.
I work with individuals who struggle with relationship issues, addiction, anxiety, depression, personality disorders, interpersonal conflict, bipolar disorder, and everyday problems and obstacles in life.
Struggling? You don't have to go alone...... Navigating life can sometimes lead us to feel disconnected from our close relationships, the people around us, or even ourselves. We may be sailing smoothly through life at times, and at others - the unexpected happens and we are not sure what to do, or how to recover. This can lead to a profound sense of loneliness, isolation, and disconnection. If you find yourself struggling or having difficulty finding meaning and purpose - you are not alone. To struggle is to be human, and I would be honored to help you uncover the answers you seek.
(469) 457-3739 View (469) 457-3739
Photo of Abby Jo Hawkins, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fannin County, TX
Abby Jo Hawkins
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCDC, MS BS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75205
Please check out my quick and easy insurance verification via website(takes less than 2 min) Focus on Trauma, Grief, and Addictions (of all kinds) alcohol, benzodiazepines, opiates, sex, shopping and eating issues. Abby works with Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder and Personality Disorders on a consistent basis. When working with a client they first establishes goals the client identifies as being their primary focus and then explains options such as plans for different types of therapy and steps to the goal from personalized plans the therapist and client create together for stair step process to ensure client moves forward.
Please check out my quick and easy insurance verification via website(takes less than 2 min) Focus on Trauma, Grief, and Addictions (of all kinds) alcohol, benzodiazepines, opiates, sex, shopping and eating issues. Abby works with Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder and Personality Disorders on a consistent basis. When working with a client they first establishes goals the client identifies as being their primary focus and then explains options such as plans for different types of therapy and steps to the goal from personalized plans the therapist and client create together for stair step process to ensure client moves forward.
(254) 876-4220 View (254) 876-4220
Photo of Yas Farrokh, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fannin County, TX
Yas Farrokh
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Carrollton, TX 75010
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and counselor supervisor with over 14 years of clinical experience. I work with adult individuals, adolescents, children, couples and families, using a variety of therapeutic techniques. I have vast experience working with issues related to trauma, depression, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, anger management, mood disorders, anxiety, employment and work place problems, and grief.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and counselor supervisor with over 14 years of clinical experience. I work with adult individuals, adolescents, children, couples and families, using a variety of therapeutic techniques. I have vast experience working with issues related to trauma, depression, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, anger management, mood disorders, anxiety, employment and work place problems, and grief.
(469) 294-8291 View (469) 294-8291
Photo of Tammy Hyde, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fannin County, TX
Tammy Hyde
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, DBT-LBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75206
I am a Certified Dialectical Behavior Therapist through the Linehan Institute. I specialize in treating individuals with Borderline Personality Disorder, chronic suicidal behaviors, self injurers, and eating disorders. I also specialize in treating trauma and have been trained intensively in DBT based Prolonged Exposure therapy. Most of the clients I treat have co occurring diagnosis including Bipolar, Major Depression, PTSD, and/or Anxiety. I work with adolescents, young adults, and adults. I presently lead DBT skills trainning groups for young adults, adults, and parents/family members. My goal is to help my patients to create a life with living.
I am a Certified Dialectical Behavior Therapist through the Linehan Institute. I specialize in treating individuals with Borderline Personality Disorder, chronic suicidal behaviors, self injurers, and eating disorders. I also specialize in treating trauma and have been trained intensively in DBT based Prolonged Exposure therapy. Most of the clients I treat have co occurring diagnosis including Bipolar, Major Depression, PTSD, and/or Anxiety. I work with adolescents, young adults, and adults. I presently lead DBT skills trainning groups for young adults, adults, and parents/family members. My goal is to help my patients to create a life with living.
(972) 544-4478 x3 View (972) 544-4478 x3
Photo of Myrtle Hawkins, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fannin County, TX
Myrtle Hawkins
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LPHA
Verified Verified
Mesquite, TX 75149  (Online Only)
I have extensive volunteer/training working in local Inpatient hospitals with all populations dealing with Bipolar, Schizophrenia and Borderline Personality as the program manager dealing with the acute status to outpatient services.
Are you sad and confused? I can help you understand the thoughts and feelings that influence behaviors. You can get help through counseling. It is generally short-term and focused on helping you deal with a very specific problem; Virtual only (M,W,Thur 10 or 11), M-F (appointments after 5 pm CST), Saturdays (9-2p) "virtual appointments only". I am experienced in treating a wide range of disorders including: phobias, addictions, depression, and anxiety, couples issues, divorce issues and trauma.
I have extensive volunteer/training working in local Inpatient hospitals with all populations dealing with Bipolar, Schizophrenia and Borderline Personality as the program manager dealing with the acute status to outpatient services.
Are you sad and confused? I can help you understand the thoughts and feelings that influence behaviors. You can get help through counseling. It is generally short-term and focused on helping you deal with a very specific problem; Virtual only (M,W,Thur 10 or 11), M-F (appointments after 5 pm CST), Saturdays (9-2p) "virtual appointments only". I am experienced in treating a wide range of disorders including: phobias, addictions, depression, and anxiety, couples issues, divorce issues and trauma.
(972) 573-9733 View (972) 573-9733
Photo of Teresa Tribett, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fannin County, TX
Teresa Tribett
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75243
I have over 15 years of experience treating those struggling with depression, trauma disorders, anxiety related disorders, mood disorders to include bipolar disorder, relationship issues, self-esteem, and systematic family conflict to include parenting issues.
My clients would describe me as easy to talk to, a great listener, honest, and informed. I find great value in creating a foundation of trust and comfortability so my clients can work to meet their therapeutic goals. Counseling is most effective when the client feels accepted and believes the therapist genuinely cares about the topics discussed during session. It is a privilege to be a part of one's journey to improve, change, or maintain aspects in their life. I truly care about each of my client's health and well-being.
I have over 15 years of experience treating those struggling with depression, trauma disorders, anxiety related disorders, mood disorders to include bipolar disorder, relationship issues, self-esteem, and systematic family conflict to include parenting issues.
My clients would describe me as easy to talk to, a great listener, honest, and informed. I find great value in creating a foundation of trust and comfortability so my clients can work to meet their therapeutic goals. Counseling is most effective when the client feels accepted and believes the therapist genuinely cares about the topics discussed during session. It is a privilege to be a part of one's journey to improve, change, or maintain aspects in their life. I truly care about each of my client's health and well-being.
(214) 833-8301 View (214) 833-8301
Photo of Dr. Jonathan Wilson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Fannin County, TX
Dr. Jonathan Wilson
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75206  (Online Only)
The majority of my clients are looking for a therapist to help them work through a difficult stage of life, and I consider it an honor to be given that opportunity. I will provide a thorough assessment for you in our first session and set up a treatment plan together. I specialize in treating relationships, depression, anxiety, sexual disorders, trauma, and PTSD. I also have a great deal of experience working with those with Bipolar Disorder, personality disorders, sleep disorders, self-harm, and sex and pornography addiction. As an ally of the LGBT+ community, I work with individuals in any type of relationship.
The majority of my clients are looking for a therapist to help them work through a difficult stage of life, and I consider it an honor to be given that opportunity. I will provide a thorough assessment for you in our first session and set up a treatment plan together. I specialize in treating relationships, depression, anxiety, sexual disorders, trauma, and PTSD. I also have a great deal of experience working with those with Bipolar Disorder, personality disorders, sleep disorders, self-harm, and sex and pornography addiction. As an ally of the LGBT+ community, I work with individuals in any type of relationship.
(617) 766-1038 View (617) 766-1038
Photo of Candice Ronemus Supervised By Dr. Russ Bartee Lpc-S, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Fannin County, TX
Candice Ronemus Supervised By Dr. Russ Bartee Lpc-S
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, TX 76017
The lives we live can be entangled with the problem-saturated stories we tell ourselves. You are the expert in your life and have the story that holds that truth. Together we can work to re-story your life so you can have the preferred story you want for your life. I also offer EMDR to help your brain heal so that the present trauma will fade into the background, allowing you to re-build your preferred future. I have clinical experience working with diagnoses such as dissociative identity disorder, bipolar, anxiety, PTSD, sexual trauma/issues, trauma, panic disorders, and various mood disorders.
The lives we live can be entangled with the problem-saturated stories we tell ourselves. You are the expert in your life and have the story that holds that truth. Together we can work to re-story your life so you can have the preferred story you want for your life. I also offer EMDR to help your brain heal so that the present trauma will fade into the background, allowing you to re-build your preferred future. I have clinical experience working with diagnoses such as dissociative identity disorder, bipolar, anxiety, PTSD, sexual trauma/issues, trauma, panic disorders, and various mood disorders.
(682) 452-6684 View (682) 452-6684
Photo of Kay Fontenot, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fannin County, TX
Kay Fontenot
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, LCDC, BSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waxahachie, TX 75165
My professional goal is to provide connection, healing, and insight during each of our encounters, With a passion for attachment and relational models, I have training, expertise and experience in providing counseling and psychotherapy for the following types of concerns/struggles: Women's Concerns, Emerging Adults, Relationship Strain, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Substance Use, Personality Traits and/or Disorders, Divorce, Infidelity, Boundaries, Grief and Loss, Career Concerns, Assertiveness Training, & Life Adjustments. I also offer individual, group and family intensives for connection, insight and deeper healing.
My professional goal is to provide connection, healing, and insight during each of our encounters, With a passion for attachment and relational models, I have training, expertise and experience in providing counseling and psychotherapy for the following types of concerns/struggles: Women's Concerns, Emerging Adults, Relationship Strain, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Substance Use, Personality Traits and/or Disorders, Divorce, Infidelity, Boundaries, Grief and Loss, Career Concerns, Assertiveness Training, & Life Adjustments. I also offer individual, group and family intensives for connection, insight and deeper healing.
(469) 405-2856 View (469) 405-2856
Photo of Christine Sommer Robinson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fannin County, TX
Christine Sommer Robinson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, CRC, LPC
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76110  (Online Only)
I work with a variety of individuals who may be experiencing symptoms related to, but not limited to, the following diagnoses: depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, bipolar disorder, chemical dependency and co-occurring disorders.
Hello! My name is Sommer Robinson and I am a LPC currently practicing in Fort Worth, Texas. We all live busy lives with various commitments that often limits access to mental health services that are typically offered during regular business hours. I offer evening appointments only and accept several insurance plans.
I work with a variety of individuals who may be experiencing symptoms related to, but not limited to, the following diagnoses: depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, bipolar disorder, chemical dependency and co-occurring disorders.
Hello! My name is Sommer Robinson and I am a LPC currently practicing in Fort Worth, Texas. We all live busy lives with various commitments that often limits access to mental health services that are typically offered during regular business hours. I offer evening appointments only and accept several insurance plans.
(682) 217-1788 View (682) 217-1788
Photo of Rachel Wyatt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fannin County, 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

See more therapy options for Fannin County

Bipolar Disorder Therapists

What is the most successful approach to treating bipolar disorder?

Living with bipolar disorder can be challenging, and a number of therapies have been found effective in providing support to patients as they gain the skills to understand and manage the disorder. Family-focused therapy is often helpful for children and teens (the majority of cases develop before age 19); it aims to minimize mood cycling by improving family communication and reducing conflict. It also helps young people navigate the developmental challenges the disorder can create. Cognitive and behavioral therapy (CBT) and variants such as Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)help patients manage the thoughts and feelings that influence bipolar mood swings as well as develop specific behavioral strategies to counteract them.

What happens in therapy for bipolar disorder?

Because the patterns of mood switching and its triggers differ for each person and can change over time, mood tracking or monitoring becomes a basic way patients learn about the nature of their condition. One of the most common features of therapy is finding a workable method of mood monitoring, in which patients track their daily activities and rate their moods, then use the findings to adjust routines accordingly. Patients learn ways of handling the many stresses that arise in life so that they do not trigger mood swings.

What kinds of problems does therapy help with?

Like many other mental health disorders, BPD is heavily influenced by stress; therapy provides skills for coping with stressors of all kinds. Therapy is extremely important for helping individuals identify the situations that may trigger mood switching, so that mood swings can be prevented. Therapy may especially target recognition of the early stages of mood change so that they can be managed. In addition, therapy helps patients deal with the significant amount of turbulence the disorder can create in relationships and in work life.

What is the goal of therapy for bipolar disorder?

Therapy helps patients set up their lives to maintain stability so that their mood isn’t constantly threatened by daily events. Perhaps the first task of therapy is to educate people about the nature of the disorder. At the same time, a primary goal of therapy is to enhance adherence to drug treatment. Extended periods of mood stability can prompt patients to discontinue medication, triggering relapse, while the early phases of manic episodes can feel so energizing that patients stop medication, ushering in full-blown mania and the altered self-perception that can lead to destructive behaviors. Another major goal of therapy is to understand one’s mood patterns so as to minimize both the frequency and intensity of mood cycling.