Photo of Jenny Moores, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fredericksburg, TX
Jenny Moores
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Fredericksburg, TX 78624
My area of expertise incudes children, adolescents and their families..
My area of expertise incudes children, adolescents and their families..
(281) 730-5938 View (281) 730-5938
Photo of Brook Bodenhamer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fredericksburg, TX
Brook Bodenhamer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCDC
Verified Verified
Fredericksburg, TX 78624
Are you looking to work hard to make some life changes to better your overall mental health? Are you tired of the same old broken record playing day after day in regard to your life struggles? I'm here to help you conquer the things you need to confront. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, family conflict, substance dependency, parenting issues, relationship issues to name a few issues contact me. Are you ready to be set free from life's challenges by conquering life's struggles one minute at a time? Contact me! This is your first HUGE step to obtaining freedom from your struggles!
Are you looking to work hard to make some life changes to better your overall mental health? Are you tired of the same old broken record playing day after day in regard to your life struggles? I'm here to help you conquer the things you need to confront. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, family conflict, substance dependency, parenting issues, relationship issues to name a few issues contact me. Are you ready to be set free from life's challenges by conquering life's struggles one minute at a time? Contact me! This is your first HUGE step to obtaining freedom from your struggles!
(830) 307-5802 View (830) 307-5802
Photo of Rhonda Kay Fousek, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fredericksburg, TX
Rhonda Kay Fousek
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Fredericksburg, TX 78624
Waitlist for new clients
In this crazy, non predictable world are you anxious, angry or overwhelmed? Are you more stressed, avoiding others, or are you to the point of calling it quits? Are you dealing with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, ADHD, PTSD, trauma or abuse. I believe we learn survival skills from our past that affect your present relationships, but are no longer heathy & we feel stuck. I am a Christian Therapist for over 20years. There is HOPE. God is a God of attachments and HE says it is not good to be alone. HE has given me to passion and HIS knowledge and HIS Wisdom to help you walk through this journey. You are not alone.
In this crazy, non predictable world are you anxious, angry or overwhelmed? Are you more stressed, avoiding others, or are you to the point of calling it quits? Are you dealing with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, ADHD, PTSD, trauma or abuse. I believe we learn survival skills from our past that affect your present relationships, but are no longer heathy & we feel stuck. I am a Christian Therapist for over 20years. There is HOPE. God is a God of attachments and HE says it is not good to be alone. HE has given me to passion and HIS knowledge and HIS Wisdom to help you walk through this journey. You are not alone.
(830) 433-8946 View (830) 433-8946
Photo of Diane Fitch, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fredericksburg, TX
Diane Fitch
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LMFT, LPC, CART
Verified Verified
Fredericksburg, TX 78624
I am trained in Marriage & Family Therapy, Brief Solution-focused Therapy, Family Mediation, Brain Change Therapy, Ericksonian hypnosis, Michele-Weiner Davis' "divorce-busting" Seminars--"Marriage Breakthrough" and "Keeping Love Alive." I am trained and certified as an Anger Resolution Therapist (CART). I also have vast experience working with step- families, individuals trying to survive a broken relationship, and couples in the process of divorce. I also have an associate LPC, Kim Vogel, who specializes in EMDR and child & adolescent therapy.
I am trained in Marriage & Family Therapy, Brief Solution-focused Therapy, Family Mediation, Brain Change Therapy, Ericksonian hypnosis, Michele-Weiner Davis' "divorce-busting" Seminars--"Marriage Breakthrough" and "Keeping Love Alive." I am trained and certified as an Anger Resolution Therapist (CART). I also have vast experience working with step- families, individuals trying to survive a broken relationship, and couples in the process of divorce. I also have an associate LPC, Kim Vogel, who specializes in EMDR and child & adolescent therapy.
(830) 433-8846 View (830) 433-8846
Photo of Eric R Cardwell, Psychologist in Fredericksburg, TX
Eric R Cardwell
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fredericksburg, TX 78624
As a psychologist, I strive to develop relationships with people that will allow them to make changes in their lives as quickly as possible. I believe that each one of us is in charge of the story of our lives and because of this we have the power to change our lives for the better. Through a gentle, firm, and compassionate approach you will find resolution to life's challenges in a way that will bring peace,support, understanding,and direction.
As a psychologist, I strive to develop relationships with people that will allow them to make changes in their lives as quickly as possible. I believe that each one of us is in charge of the story of our lives and because of this we have the power to change our lives for the better. Through a gentle, firm, and compassionate approach you will find resolution to life's challenges in a way that will bring peace,support, understanding,and direction.
(830) 446-3949 View (830) 446-3949
Photo of Terry Rauschuber, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fredericksburg, TX
Terry Rauschuber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fredericksburg, TX 78624
Often we face many challenges in our lives and need an outlet to figure out the road we will take on this next journey. Dealing with depression and anxiety can add to our level of stress. I have successful experience working with adults and older adults dealing with depression and anxiety, grief and loss, stress, divorce, family and care giving issues. With my previous experience working in hospitals and psychiatric hospitals for adults and older adults I bring skills to help you develop coping strategies as you might face these challenges.
Often we face many challenges in our lives and need an outlet to figure out the road we will take on this next journey. Dealing with depression and anxiety can add to our level of stress. I have successful experience working with adults and older adults dealing with depression and anxiety, grief and loss, stress, divorce, family and care giving issues. With my previous experience working in hospitals and psychiatric hospitals for adults and older adults I bring skills to help you develop coping strategies as you might face these challenges.
(830) 321-7837 View (830) 321-7837

Online Therapists

Photo of Paul DeLew, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fredericksburg, TX
Paul DeLew
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78759  (Online Only)
Paul DeLew is a Licensed Professional Counselor and graduated from National Louis University in Chicago. He has experience in treating a wide range of mental Illnesses, including panic disorder, ADHD, generalized anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, substance abuse, addiction, trauma, and sexual abuse. He treats adolescents, young adults, and adults, creating a specialized treatment to best help each client.
Paul DeLew is a Licensed Professional Counselor and graduated from National Louis University in Chicago. He has experience in treating a wide range of mental Illnesses, including panic disorder, ADHD, generalized anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, substance abuse, addiction, trauma, and sexual abuse. He treats adolescents, young adults, and adults, creating a specialized treatment to best help each client.
(512) 668-7690 View (512) 668-7690
Photo of Stacey Lavoro Rexrode, Psychologist in Fredericksburg, TX
Stacey Lavoro Rexrode
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Cedar Park, TX 78613  (Online Only)
I offer individual and group psychotherapy, psychological assessments, and tele-psychology interventions for trauma (PTSD), mood disorders (Depression, Bipolar Disorder), anxiety disorders (OCD, Social phobia, Panic Disorder), anger management and self-esteem programs, programs for Insomnia and sleep disorders, and parenting help.
I take pride in my ability to relate to a large population, and I enjoy working with clients 12 years of age and up. My clients over the years have had: depression, anxiety disorders, adjustment difficulty, as well as teenagers with a variety of school, peer, family, and self-esteem issues. I work best with clients who are motivated for change, but also understand that teenagers often come to therapy at the urging of parents and may be resistant at first. I welcome women's issues, veteran's issues, LGBTQ issues, those who are just "stuck", going through a life transition or folks who have been in and out of therapy for years.
I offer individual and group psychotherapy, psychological assessments, and tele-psychology interventions for trauma (PTSD), mood disorders (Depression, Bipolar Disorder), anxiety disorders (OCD, Social phobia, Panic Disorder), anger management and self-esteem programs, programs for Insomnia and sleep disorders, and parenting help.
I take pride in my ability to relate to a large population, and I enjoy working with clients 12 years of age and up. My clients over the years have had: depression, anxiety disorders, adjustment difficulty, as well as teenagers with a variety of school, peer, family, and self-esteem issues. I work best with clients who are motivated for change, but also understand that teenagers often come to therapy at the urging of parents and may be resistant at first. I welcome women's issues, veteran's issues, LGBTQ issues, those who are just "stuck", going through a life transition or folks who have been in and out of therapy for years.
(512) 886-5530 View (512) 886-5530
Photo of Carolyn McWilliams, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fredericksburg, TX
Carolyn McWilliams
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78230
I have extensive experience serving people with serious mental struggles like Schizophrenia, Bipolar, and Trauma.
With all that is going on right now, many people are struggling with unprecedented expectations and stressors, leading to significant anxiety and depression. Might you be one of them? Or perhaps you have been surviving with a serious mental health condition such as Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, or Trauma for quite some time and are looking for support? Take the time to prioritize your wellness by seeking support. If you are ready to gain deeper self-understanding and build a life that you love, I am here to help.
I have extensive experience serving people with serious mental struggles like Schizophrenia, Bipolar, and Trauma.
With all that is going on right now, many people are struggling with unprecedented expectations and stressors, leading to significant anxiety and depression. Might you be one of them? Or perhaps you have been surviving with a serious mental health condition such as Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, or Trauma for quite some time and are looking for support? Take the time to prioritize your wellness by seeking support. If you are ready to gain deeper self-understanding and build a life that you love, I am here to help.
(210) 899-7191 View (210) 899-7191
Photo of Kimberly McGoey, Psychologist in Fredericksburg, TX
Kimberly McGoey
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78703  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating patients with long-term mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and trauma.
As a psychodynamic and attachment-oriented psychotherapist, I seek to help my patients better understand themselves. I know this journey isn't easy and I am here to walk with you down the path to knowing, understanding, and growing. I do this by meeting my patients where they are and mutually agreeing upon goals and what you want the therapeutic process to look like for you. Whether you are looking for help for a specific issue such as depression, anxiety, loss, or seek to explore yourself; I will join with you and help alleviate your pain in order to help you become more aware, integrated, and live a more content life.
I specialize in treating patients with long-term mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and trauma.
As a psychodynamic and attachment-oriented psychotherapist, I seek to help my patients better understand themselves. I know this journey isn't easy and I am here to walk with you down the path to knowing, understanding, and growing. I do this by meeting my patients where they are and mutually agreeing upon goals and what you want the therapeutic process to look like for you. Whether you are looking for help for a specific issue such as depression, anxiety, loss, or seek to explore yourself; I will join with you and help alleviate your pain in order to help you become more aware, integrated, and live a more content life.
(512) 714-3403 View (512) 714-3403
Photo of Tiffany Begley, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fredericksburg, TX
Tiffany Begley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78717
Anxiety is annoying. Depression is annoying. It doesn't have to be. Trauma is overwhelming. You can learn to lessen and live with these struggles. Take control. The power is in your hands. It's a journey... or any other cliche saying that works in therapy. It's all welcome here. I work with clients diagnosed with a variety of mental health disorders including psychosis, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder. I specialize in military and military family struggles. I also have experience working with law enforcement and other first responders.
Anxiety is annoying. Depression is annoying. It doesn't have to be. Trauma is overwhelming. You can learn to lessen and live with these struggles. Take control. The power is in your hands. It's a journey... or any other cliche saying that works in therapy. It's all welcome here. I work with clients diagnosed with a variety of mental health disorders including psychosis, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder. I specialize in military and military family struggles. I also have experience working with law enforcement and other first responders.
(512) 877-7587 View (512) 877-7587
Photo of January Martin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fredericksburg, TX
January Martin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCDC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78735
I work well with adults coping with bipolar disorder, psychosis, depression, grief, and trauma.
I believe that people should not be limited to a label. We are so much more than problems or disorders; we are strengthened by our flaws and our most difficult experiences can transform us. I am direct, interactive, and strongly believe that people change through healing relationships. In sessions we will work together at a pace that feels right for you. We will identify and prioritize your goals, address problems that get in the way of your happiness, and collaboratively build lasting solutions. I will listen to and accept your feedback about how we are working together.
I work well with adults coping with bipolar disorder, psychosis, depression, grief, and trauma.
I believe that people should not be limited to a label. We are so much more than problems or disorders; we are strengthened by our flaws and our most difficult experiences can transform us. I am direct, interactive, and strongly believe that people change through healing relationships. In sessions we will work together at a pace that feels right for you. We will identify and prioritize your goals, address problems that get in the way of your happiness, and collaboratively build lasting solutions. I will listen to and accept your feedback about how we are working together.
(512) 948-3370 View (512) 948-3370
Photo of A World of Respect, Marriage & Family Therapist in Fredericksburg, TX
A World of Respect
Marriage & Family Therapist, LPC-S, LMFT-S
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78723
I offer marital and premarital counseling, family and relationship conflicts counseling, specializing in: Child and adolescent behavior;Fostercare Depression; Bipolar disorder; ADD and ADHD; Sexual abuse; Grief and trauma therapy; Transitional life issues; GLB issues.
Susanne Slay-Westbrook, Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist-Supervisor, author and founder of A World of Respect, has been helping couples, families, children and individuals of all ages overcome relational, behavioral and emotional conflicts since 1984. By applying Respect-Focused Therapy, an approach which emphasizes respect as the centerpiece of therapy, I help clients identify and overcome hurtful patterns, resolve conflicts. past or present, and develop effective coping strategies in everyday life. I've written a new book, "Respect-FocusedTherapy: Honoring Clients Through the Therapeutic Relationship and Process," Routledge Pub. Available Oct. 1, 2 016.
I offer marital and premarital counseling, family and relationship conflicts counseling, specializing in: Child and adolescent behavior;Fostercare Depression; Bipolar disorder; ADD and ADHD; Sexual abuse; Grief and trauma therapy; Transitional life issues; GLB issues.
Susanne Slay-Westbrook, Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist-Supervisor, author and founder of A World of Respect, has been helping couples, families, children and individuals of all ages overcome relational, behavioral and emotional conflicts since 1984. By applying Respect-Focused Therapy, an approach which emphasizes respect as the centerpiece of therapy, I help clients identify and overcome hurtful patterns, resolve conflicts. past or present, and develop effective coping strategies in everyday life. I've written a new book, "Respect-FocusedTherapy: Honoring Clients Through the Therapeutic Relationship and Process," Routledge Pub. Available Oct. 1, 2 016.
(512) 649-0127 View (512) 649-0127
Photo of Eric Frodsham, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fredericksburg, TX
Eric Frodsham
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Elgin, TX 78621  (Online Only)
Anxiety, Relationship/Family issues, Grief, Parenting, Anger management, Self esteem, Bipolar disorder, ADHD, Abandonment, Aging Issues, Attachment Issues, Autism/Asperger, Addiction, Depression, Military, Trauma, Career Issues, Schizophrenia, PTSD, Process addiction (porn, exercise, gambling), Self-Love, TBI, Mood Disorders, Domestic Violence, Codependency.
I am licensed in Texas with 5 years of professional counseling experience. I like to get to know my clients and understand the barriers they are experiencing and the outcomes they wish to manifest in their lives. I listen carefully about their experiences and look to help find positive solutions to their different life challenges. I am open to exploring any topics without passing judgement and implementing the most person-centered techniques that will lead to positive outcomes.
Anxiety, Relationship/Family issues, Grief, Parenting, Anger management, Self esteem, Bipolar disorder, ADHD, Abandonment, Aging Issues, Attachment Issues, Autism/Asperger, Addiction, Depression, Military, Trauma, Career Issues, Schizophrenia, PTSD, Process addiction (porn, exercise, gambling), Self-Love, TBI, Mood Disorders, Domestic Violence, Codependency.
I am licensed in Texas with 5 years of professional counseling experience. I like to get to know my clients and understand the barriers they are experiencing and the outcomes they wish to manifest in their lives. I listen carefully about their experiences and look to help find positive solutions to their different life challenges. I am open to exploring any topics without passing judgement and implementing the most person-centered techniques that will lead to positive outcomes.
(512) 710-2692 View (512) 710-2692
Photo of Kayla Burrow, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fredericksburg, TX
Kayla Burrow
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78705  (Online Only)
I am a licensed professional counselor in Texas with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia & schizoaffective disorder, as well as, the co-occurring diagnosis .
I am a licensed professional counselor in Texas with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia & schizoaffective disorder, as well as, the co-occurring diagnosis .
(737) 252-6587 View (737) 252-6587
Photo of Laura McDowell-Salcedo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fredericksburg, TX
Laura McDowell-Salcedo, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78731
I provide counseling services to adults with a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, relationship problems, addictions and ADHD. I offer individual and couples psychotherapy services. My style is interactive and supportive, yet direct in working with clients and I view psychotherapy as a collaborative effort between therapist and client.I use a combination of therapy techniques suited to your individual needs which may include: Cognitive-Behavioral (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR), Family Systems, Humanistic and Relational.
I provide counseling services to adults with a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, relationship problems, addictions and ADHD. I offer individual and couples psychotherapy services. My style is interactive and supportive, yet direct in working with clients and I view psychotherapy as a collaborative effort between therapist and client.I use a combination of therapy techniques suited to your individual needs which may include: Cognitive-Behavioral (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR), Family Systems, Humanistic and Relational.
(512) 598-4711 View (512) 598-4711
Photo of Velma Perez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fredericksburg, TX
Velma Perez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, C-DBT
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78232
My name is Velma, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker-Supervisor with over ten years' experience in the mental health field. My practice focus is with individuals, couples and teens looking for support. I specialize in helping individuals manage emotional challenges of trauma, bipolar, schizophrenia, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, child and adult ADHD, learning, academic, and work difficulties, self-esteem issues, chronic illness, and adjustment to change.
My name is Velma, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker-Supervisor with over ten years' experience in the mental health field. My practice focus is with individuals, couples and teens looking for support. I specialize in helping individuals manage emotional challenges of trauma, bipolar, schizophrenia, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, child and adult ADHD, learning, academic, and work difficulties, self-esteem issues, chronic illness, and adjustment to change.
(210) 614-4990 View (210) 614-4990
Photo of Dr. Shawne Ortiz, Psychologist in Fredericksburg, TX
Dr. Shawne Ortiz
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
New Braunfels, TX 78130  (Online Only)
I am a bilingual (English/Spanish) licensed psychologist providing individual, couples and family counseling. I am licensed in Texas with over 18 years of experience working as a psychotherapist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, relationship issues, parenting problems, and stress management. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. In addition to working with mood disorders, I have worked with individuals and families involved in the legal system as well as Child Protective Services.
I am a bilingual (English/Spanish) licensed psychologist providing individual, couples and family counseling. I am licensed in Texas with over 18 years of experience working as a psychotherapist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, relationship issues, parenting problems, and stress management. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. In addition to working with mood disorders, I have worked with individuals and families involved in the legal system as well as Child Protective Services.
(830) 415-0589 View (830) 415-0589
Photo of Lindsay Clegg, LPC Associate in Fredericksburg, TX
Lindsay Clegg
LPC Associate, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
Round Rock, TX 78681
Specialties include: adult neurodiversity (ADHD, Autism +), bipolar, anxiety, depression, highly sensitive person, narcissist & borderline concerns, women in tech & STEM, body image, family dynamics & conflict, child-parent issues, underlying needs, communication, boundaries.
I help clients increase self-understanding, manage healthy relationships, & navigate career/societal challenges. I believe it’s important to feel proud of the things that make you unique & unlearn ideas that these traits are flaws. Self-acceptance begins when we take time to really notice who we are, the way we function most naturally, & how our identities have been infused with negative messages over time. Self-acceptance & self-compassion address issues at their root. With permission to be imperfect & by sustaining self-validating beliefs, we can relax.
Specialties include: adult neurodiversity (ADHD, Autism +), bipolar, anxiety, depression, highly sensitive person, narcissist & borderline concerns, women in tech & STEM, body image, family dynamics & conflict, child-parent issues, underlying needs, communication, boundaries.
I help clients increase self-understanding, manage healthy relationships, & navigate career/societal challenges. I believe it’s important to feel proud of the things that make you unique & unlearn ideas that these traits are flaws. Self-acceptance begins when we take time to really notice who we are, the way we function most naturally, & how our identities have been infused with negative messages over time. Self-acceptance & self-compassion address issues at their root. With permission to be imperfect & by sustaining self-validating beliefs, we can relax.
(737) 250-0347 View (737) 250-0347
Photo of Spirit of Serene Healing Counseling LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fredericksburg, TX
Spirit of Serene Healing Counseling LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S, NCC, CART
Verified Verified
Marble Falls, TX 78654
I have over thirteen years of experience in working with individuals that have been diagnosed with Schizophrenia, Bi-Polar Disorder and Manic depression.
Everyone is unique in their own way with their own needs and purpose to fulfill. With life having many challenges, so we begin with a goal to live each moment with sincere and serene grace, to laugh about at least one thing every day, and to love with passion and compassion. There is always hope for renewal and a bright future so long as we focus on our goals.
I have over thirteen years of experience in working with individuals that have been diagnosed with Schizophrenia, Bi-Polar Disorder and Manic depression.
Everyone is unique in their own way with their own needs and purpose to fulfill. With life having many challenges, so we begin with a goal to live each moment with sincere and serene grace, to laugh about at least one thing every day, and to love with passion and compassion. There is always hope for renewal and a bright future so long as we focus on our goals.
(830) 798-1443 x300 View (830) 798-1443 x300

See more therapy options for Fredericksburg

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.