There are no results for therapists in Fredericksburg

Check out therapists located nearby or offering teletherapy in Texas below.

Online Therapists

Photo of Karisha Richards, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fredericksburg, TX
Karisha Richards
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78209  (Online Only)
Welcome and thank you for visiting my profile, my name is Karisha and I am the owner of Delvon Behavioral Health! I am a fully Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor with 15 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. I specialize in teaching my clients how to manage symptoms of anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, and grief. I also have experience with clients who wish to explore their gender identity, exhibit symptoms of schizophrenia/psychosis, and bipolar disorder.
Welcome and thank you for visiting my profile, my name is Karisha and I am the owner of Delvon Behavioral Health! I am a fully Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor with 15 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. I specialize in teaching my clients how to manage symptoms of anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, and grief. I also have experience with clients who wish to explore their gender identity, exhibit symptoms of schizophrenia/psychosis, and bipolar disorder.
(903) 329-2946 View (903) 329-2946
Photo of Gina Antonia Nepa, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fredericksburg, TX
Gina Antonia Nepa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW, LMSW, CTP
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78705  (Online Only)
I'm honored to get to hold space with you. I am primarily offering ADHD assessments at this time. I’m passionate about working with clients to confirm or rule out ADHD, and offer subsequent treatment to support in ADHD management and/or the presence of anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, substance misuse, and trauma impact. I'm particularly passionate about working with LGBTQIA+-identified individuals, and believe that liberation of shame is imperative in a strong therapeutic partnership. I fundamentally believe that each of us is doing our best with the tools that we have.
I'm honored to get to hold space with you. I am primarily offering ADHD assessments at this time. I’m passionate about working with clients to confirm or rule out ADHD, and offer subsequent treatment to support in ADHD management and/or the presence of anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, substance misuse, and trauma impact. I'm particularly passionate about working with LGBTQIA+-identified individuals, and believe that liberation of shame is imperative in a strong therapeutic partnership. I fundamentally believe that each of us is doing our best with the tools that we have.
(206) 558-5483 View (206) 558-5483
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 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 Lee Rogers, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fredericksburg, TX
Lee Rogers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78731  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I focus my work on anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, trauma, and life transitions in middle age.
I believe in creating a unique and supportive environment where no topic is off limits. My approach in therapy is centered around each person’s individual needs. I focus energy in sessions on empowering clients through their process of self-transformation. You can rely on my authentic, interactive, and curious self to be with you as you navigate your own path of healing. I am here to talk with you, explore with you, feel with you, and at times, challenge you.
I focus my work on anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, trauma, and life transitions in middle age.
I believe in creating a unique and supportive environment where no topic is off limits. My approach in therapy is centered around each person’s individual needs. I focus energy in sessions on empowering clients through their process of self-transformation. You can rely on my authentic, interactive, and curious self to be with you as you navigate your own path of healing. I am here to talk with you, explore with you, feel with you, and at times, challenge you.
(737) 302-5714 View (737) 302-5714
Photo of Katherine Kainer, Psychologist in Fredericksburg, TX
Katherine Kainer
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78212
Hello! My name is Dr. Katherine (Katie) Kainer and I am a licensed psychologist based in San Antonio, TX. I am the owner of ReNew Psychological Services, PLLC, and provide virtual therapy to clients all over Texas. I work with adults who experience various difficulties, including depression, anxiety, social anxiety, bipolar, ADHD, PTSD, trauma, anger, stress, body image, relational, communication, life transition/adjustment, grief/loss, burnout, work stress, perfectionism, self-esteem, family conflict, chronic pain, neurocognitive, military/veteran-related, and college mental health concerns.
Hello! My name is Dr. Katherine (Katie) Kainer and I am a licensed psychologist based in San Antonio, TX. I am the owner of ReNew Psychological Services, PLLC, and provide virtual therapy to clients all over Texas. I work with adults who experience various difficulties, including depression, anxiety, social anxiety, bipolar, ADHD, PTSD, trauma, anger, stress, body image, relational, communication, life transition/adjustment, grief/loss, burnout, work stress, perfectionism, self-esteem, family conflict, chronic pain, neurocognitive, military/veteran-related, and college mental health concerns.
(281) 746-6732 View (281) 746-6732
Photo of Veronica Turullols-Gonzalez, Licensed Master Social Worker in Fredericksburg, TX
Veronica Turullols-Gonzalez
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78745
Over the last 8 years I have worked with teens, families, and adults who have experienced depression, anxiety, grief/loss, anger issues, bipolar, PTSD, thoughts/attempts of suicide, self-harm, panic attacks, existential stress, abuse, trauma, addiction, body dysmorphia, LGBTQIA+ issues, cultural shock, interpersonal conflict, life transitions and much more.
My goal is to provide you with a space to process the difficult things but also empower you so that you leave each session feeling a little more whole than the last. Within this safe space your needs come first, judgment will never be placed on you, you can be your true genuine self, and you get to choose what you want out of your treatment. My approach to therapy is warm, empathetic, and strengths based. I utilize several different modalities to best meet individuals needs but almost always incorporate some form of positive psychology and/or mindfulness to strengthen neuro-connections in the brain that influence positive thinking.
Over the last 8 years I have worked with teens, families, and adults who have experienced depression, anxiety, grief/loss, anger issues, bipolar, PTSD, thoughts/attempts of suicide, self-harm, panic attacks, existential stress, abuse, trauma, addiction, body dysmorphia, LGBTQIA+ issues, cultural shock, interpersonal conflict, life transitions and much more.
My goal is to provide you with a space to process the difficult things but also empower you so that you leave each session feeling a little more whole than the last. Within this safe space your needs come first, judgment will never be placed on you, you can be your true genuine self, and you get to choose what you want out of your treatment. My approach to therapy is warm, empathetic, and strengths based. I utilize several different modalities to best meet individuals needs but almost always incorporate some form of positive psychology and/or mindfulness to strengthen neuro-connections in the brain that influence positive thinking.
(512) 886-7414 View (512) 886-7414
Photo of Amberlea Patrick, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fredericksburg, TX
Amberlea Patrick
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78757
Discovering the Wisdom Within: Cultivating consciousness and tuning into presence-- I integrate spirituality into psychotherapy. These two pathways to healing are intimately connected, both offering important and necessary tools for deep healing and awakening. Psychotherapy employs tested processes to understand personality traits, events that create disturbance in our lives, and patterns of thinking, feeling, and behaving. Spirituality offers us the ability to encourage loving kindness with all that we are. It teaches us to nurture and develop the inner observer, present moment awareness, non-judgment, and heart-centered thinking. Cultivating intimacy with all that we are--light and dark, high and low, superficial and deep.
Discovering the Wisdom Within: Cultivating consciousness and tuning into presence-- I integrate spirituality into psychotherapy. These two pathways to healing are intimately connected, both offering important and necessary tools for deep healing and awakening. Psychotherapy employs tested processes to understand personality traits, events that create disturbance in our lives, and patterns of thinking, feeling, and behaving. Spirituality offers us the ability to encourage loving kindness with all that we are. It teaches us to nurture and develop the inner observer, present moment awareness, non-judgment, and heart-centered thinking. Cultivating intimacy with all that we are--light and dark, high and low, superficial and deep.
(512) 434-0937 View (512) 434-0937
Photo of Jamey Hinman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fredericksburg, TX
Jamey Hinman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCDC, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New Braunfels, TX 78130
I believe recovery and growth is a deeply personal individualized experience. I feel privileged being a part of each clients journey. Empathy, compassion, self-worth, vulnerability & relationships with yourself & others are areas that I can help you with on your journey to healing, growing and excelling. Finding the right counselor is paramount to achieving success. I’m an Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) & Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor (LCDC). I received both my B.A. in Psychology & M.A. in Counseling and Guidance from Texas A&M. I’ve worked in various settings such as private practice, outpatient & residential.
I believe recovery and growth is a deeply personal individualized experience. I feel privileged being a part of each clients journey. Empathy, compassion, self-worth, vulnerability & relationships with yourself & others are areas that I can help you with on your journey to healing, growing and excelling. Finding the right counselor is paramount to achieving success. I’m an Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) & Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor (LCDC). I received both my B.A. in Psychology & M.A. in Counseling and Guidance from Texas A&M. I’ve worked in various settings such as private practice, outpatient & residential.
(830) 310-6112 View (830) 310-6112
Photo of Macy Margolin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fredericksburg, TX
Macy Margolin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78752
I support adults who are feeling stuck in patterns to gain clarity, build emotional awareness, and move toward new ways of being in the world. Talk therapy is a dynamic, collaborative process that I tailor to each client. Sessions are pragmatic, experiential, introspective, and challenging, to support you in healing, growing, and changing in meaningful ways. In any given session, we might include guided mind-body exercises, breathwork, memory processing, visual exercises, and just talking through it. We slow down and tune in in ways that most of us don't in daily life. I offer services to residents of Texas and Vermont.
I support adults who are feeling stuck in patterns to gain clarity, build emotional awareness, and move toward new ways of being in the world. Talk therapy is a dynamic, collaborative process that I tailor to each client. Sessions are pragmatic, experiential, introspective, and challenging, to support you in healing, growing, and changing in meaningful ways. In any given session, we might include guided mind-body exercises, breathwork, memory processing, visual exercises, and just talking through it. We slow down and tune in in ways that most of us don't in daily life. I offer services to residents of Texas and Vermont.
(737) 345-2728 View (737) 345-2728
Photo of Kelly Martin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fredericksburg, TX
Kelly Martin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78705  (Online Only)
Out beyond ideas of wrongdoing and right doing there is a field. I'll meet you there.(Rumi). I consider it an honor and a privilege to walk alongside my clients in their journey of healing and discovery. My formal education and professional experience have prepared me to counsel individuals, couples, families and groups. (I only provide individual therapy on Sondermind). I fit my clinical approach to each clients needs and goals. I have worked with many experiential techniques and enjoy bringing them into my individual sessions.
Out beyond ideas of wrongdoing and right doing there is a field. I'll meet you there.(Rumi). I consider it an honor and a privilege to walk alongside my clients in their journey of healing and discovery. My formal education and professional experience have prepared me to counsel individuals, couples, families and groups. (I only provide individual therapy on Sondermind). I fit my clinical approach to each clients needs and goals. I have worked with many experiential techniques and enjoy bringing them into my individual sessions.
(737) 332-2703 View (737) 332-2703
Photo of Dr. Amanda Strivings; Striving Onward Counseling Services, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fredericksburg, TX
Dr. Amanda Strivings; Striving Onward Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Cibolo, TX 78108  (Online Only)
Has your ability to continue "Striving Onward" been impacted? Equipped to treat adult individuals: military-specific issues/trauma/relocation, PTSD, service animal/pet loss, addiction/substance use, rejection, depression, anxiety, anger, stress, grief from death/divorce/suicide, guilt/shame, low self-esteem/worthlessness, abandonment, betrayal, lack of assertiveness, religious/spiritual issues/trauma, marriage/relationship issues/infidelity, family rejection/exclusion/scapegoating, life/career guidance, self-realization/identity development & achieving/identifying goals!
Has your ability to continue "Striving Onward" been impacted? Equipped to treat adult individuals: military-specific issues/trauma/relocation, PTSD, service animal/pet loss, addiction/substance use, rejection, depression, anxiety, anger, stress, grief from death/divorce/suicide, guilt/shame, low self-esteem/worthlessness, abandonment, betrayal, lack of assertiveness, religious/spiritual issues/trauma, marriage/relationship issues/infidelity, family rejection/exclusion/scapegoating, life/career guidance, self-realization/identity development & achieving/identifying goals!
(830) 218-1929 View (830) 218-1929
Photo of Lina Navar - Holistic Theracoaching, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fredericksburg, TX
Lina Navar - Holistic Theracoaching
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MEd, RSME/T , CERT LC, RYT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78759
Are you ready to be actively involved in creating the life you were meant to live, so that you, your soul, may experience and reclaim your innate wholeness? In working with my clients, I recognize the importance of compassionately and mindfully addressing the physical, spiritual, psychological, and emotional components of their experience in order to have a whole person understanding of how I can best support them. By tapping into the innate intelligence of your gut, heart, and mind centers YOU CAN absolutely reconnect with your inner guidance system which already contains everything you need to thrive. Contact me if you are ready!
Are you ready to be actively involved in creating the life you were meant to live, so that you, your soul, may experience and reclaim your innate wholeness? In working with my clients, I recognize the importance of compassionately and mindfully addressing the physical, spiritual, psychological, and emotional components of their experience in order to have a whole person understanding of how I can best support them. By tapping into the innate intelligence of your gut, heart, and mind centers YOU CAN absolutely reconnect with your inner guidance system which already contains everything you need to thrive. Contact me if you are ready!
(512) 866-7982 View (512) 866-7982
Photo of Kevin Nielsen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fredericksburg, TX
Kevin Nielsen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78741
I am currently offering a sliding scale, as we all deal with these extraordinary times. Living a human life can be hard. Each of us is likely to encounter problems or dilemmas that leave us feeling depressed, anxious or overwhelmed. We may have been hurt a while ago but still unable to get past it. We may seek relief yet not find resolution. Often we are caught between wanting to get through something, yet enacting ineffective behaviors meant to keep us safe. This is when it can be helpful to have someone help us face what life is asking from us.
I am currently offering a sliding scale, as we all deal with these extraordinary times. Living a human life can be hard. Each of us is likely to encounter problems or dilemmas that leave us feeling depressed, anxious or overwhelmed. We may have been hurt a while ago but still unable to get past it. We may seek relief yet not find resolution. Often we are caught between wanting to get through something, yet enacting ineffective behaviors meant to keep us safe. This is when it can be helpful to have someone help us face what life is asking from us.
(802) 328-9227 View (802) 328-9227
Photo of Connie Heaps Internal Family Systems, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fredericksburg, TX
Connie Heaps Internal Family Systems
Licensed Professional Counselor, BBA, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Round Rock, TX 78681  (Online Only)
Life has a way of presenting people with challenges they never could have imagined would happen. This can lead to confusion, depression, anxiety and/or grief. Emotional pain can be as incapacitating as physical pain. My approach helps clients explore the internal messages their body & mind provides by tuning into the wisdom of these internal messages. When clients explore their depression, anxiety, etc. from a non-judgmental, compassionate perspective, it often provides a wealth of information about unresolved fears, strengths & new possibilities. Through conscious choices & greater awareness, it's possible to find enriched meaning in life by bringing curiosity & acceptance to their inner experience.
Life has a way of presenting people with challenges they never could have imagined would happen. This can lead to confusion, depression, anxiety and/or grief. Emotional pain can be as incapacitating as physical pain. My approach helps clients explore the internal messages their body & mind provides by tuning into the wisdom of these internal messages. When clients explore their depression, anxiety, etc. from a non-judgmental, compassionate perspective, it often provides a wealth of information about unresolved fears, strengths & new possibilities. Through conscious choices & greater awareness, it's possible to find enriched meaning in life by bringing curiosity & acceptance to their inner experience.
(512) 643-7385 View (512) 643-7385
Photo of Sheila Maglaris, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fredericksburg, TX
Sheila Maglaris
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78735
Sometimes life can feel lonely, stuck and meaningless. We live in a world that encourages us to cut off from our feelings, from our sense of being truly alive. When we do this, we can begin to feel rigid, anxious, depressed and empty. I am passionate about helping adults with anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem and relationship issues. My approach is to help you connect to your body and emotions in a way that helps you know yourself more deeply, feel more confident in your decisions. Using these methods, we can help, pull you out of depression & anxiety spirals.
Sometimes life can feel lonely, stuck and meaningless. We live in a world that encourages us to cut off from our feelings, from our sense of being truly alive. When we do this, we can begin to feel rigid, anxious, depressed and empty. I am passionate about helping adults with anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem and relationship issues. My approach is to help you connect to your body and emotions in a way that helps you know yourself more deeply, feel more confident in your decisions. Using these methods, we can help, pull you out of depression & anxiety spirals.
(512) 894-8126 View (512) 894-8126
Photo of Jessica Smith, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fredericksburg, TX
Jessica Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78704
My passion is to come alongside clients on the journey into their true potential. This may involve correcting negative beliefs formed in the past such as "unlovable, unworthy, never enough" and learning to cope with feelings of discomfort, loneliness, and overwhelmed. Helping adult children of addicted and dysfunctional families find their way into deeper meaningful connections while letting go of codependent behaviors and building boundaries remains close to my heart. I believe clients of all stages, gender, background, nationality, and sexual identity deserve hope and healing and feel honored to journey with you.
My passion is to come alongside clients on the journey into their true potential. This may involve correcting negative beliefs formed in the past such as "unlovable, unworthy, never enough" and learning to cope with feelings of discomfort, loneliness, and overwhelmed. Helping adult children of addicted and dysfunctional families find their way into deeper meaningful connections while letting go of codependent behaviors and building boundaries remains close to my heart. I believe clients of all stages, gender, background, nationality, and sexual identity deserve hope and healing and feel honored to journey with you.
(737) 373-2875 View (737) 373-2875
Photo of Kathryn Fischer Psychotherapy PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fredericksburg, TX
Kathryn Fischer Psychotherapy PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MEd, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78704
I provide a safe space for you to explore, heal, and flourish; a space without judgement or expectation. In this space my priority is to make sure you feel seen, heard, and understood. You need someone to meet you where you are in your unique journey and sit beside you as you move through the suffering.  How will we do this, you ask? I believe in focusing on strengths while challenging unhealthy and unhelpful behaviors that interfere with living your best life. No pain is too small or too big for us to process and find healing comfort.
I provide a safe space for you to explore, heal, and flourish; a space without judgement or expectation. In this space my priority is to make sure you feel seen, heard, and understood. You need someone to meet you where you are in your unique journey and sit beside you as you move through the suffering.  How will we do this, you ask? I believe in focusing on strengths while challenging unhealthy and unhelpful behaviors that interfere with living your best life. No pain is too small or too big for us to process and find healing comfort.
(737) 204-8391 View (737) 204-8391
Photo of Stephanie Howard Askins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fredericksburg, TX
Stephanie Howard Askins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78746
As a therapist who helps others explore barriers and spark change, I am a fit for individuals seeking tools to move toward emotional healing and bolstered inner strength. With two decades of experience in behavioral health, I support a variety of populations, including individuals impacted by brain injury, medical complexities, trauma, grief/loss, low mood, anxiety and those desiring to move forward through large life transitions. I also remain passionate about opportunities to work with clients in the creative community.
As a therapist who helps others explore barriers and spark change, I am a fit for individuals seeking tools to move toward emotional healing and bolstered inner strength. With two decades of experience in behavioral health, I support a variety of populations, including individuals impacted by brain injury, medical complexities, trauma, grief/loss, low mood, anxiety and those desiring to move forward through large life transitions. I also remain passionate about opportunities to work with clients in the creative community.
(512) 866-9163 View (512) 866-9163
Photo of Robyn Harrington, Licensed Master Social Worker in Fredericksburg, TX
Robyn Harrington
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
Spring Branch, TX 78070
Supervised by Melanie Little, LCSW 66579. Fri & Sat openings. My goal is to help clients navigate life situations and the feelings that accompany them. With a safe client-centered approach, we develop deeper understanding for self and coping skills for life.
Supervised by Melanie Little, LCSW 66579. Fri & Sat openings. My goal is to help clients navigate life situations and the feelings that accompany them. With a safe client-centered approach, we develop deeper understanding for self and coping skills for life.
(830) 396-4441 View (830) 396-4441

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.