Therapists in Gainesville, TX
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Check out therapists located nearby or offering teletherapy in Texas below.Online Therapists
Jamie Ann Jaubert
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75023
I am highly skilled in treating mood & anxiety disorders including depression & bipolar disorders, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, OCD, PTSD, & Social Anxiety Disorder.
I am committed to helping my clients achieve their goals. I believe that counseling can promote a lifestyle that results in physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. I focus on the client as a whole individual, rather than a disorder, and encourage healthy behaviors across various aspects of life. I conceptualize individuals and form treatment plans tailored to each client's unique characteristics, strengths, values, and needs. I work diligently to create a safe, empathic, and supportive environment for my clients.
I am highly skilled in treating mood & anxiety disorders including depression & bipolar disorders, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, OCD, PTSD, & Social Anxiety Disorder.
I am committed to helping my clients achieve their goals. I believe that counseling can promote a lifestyle that results in physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. I focus on the client as a whole individual, rather than a disorder, and encourage healthy behaviors across various aspects of life. I conceptualize individuals and form treatment plans tailored to each client's unique characteristics, strengths, values, and needs. I work diligently to create a safe, empathic, and supportive environment for my clients.
Katherine Fields
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76110 (Online Only)
She also has clinical experience working with adolescents and adults who struggle with relationships, depression, anxiety, addiction and more acute psychiatric disorders such as Bipolar Disorder.
Katherine Fields is a licensed clinical therapist and school counselor in the state of Texas. She is an army brat and former navy spouse which have afforded her the opportunity to experience a wide range of cultures, including South, Central America, Italy and Japan. Recently, Katherine traversed to Mexico for eight months to learn more about its rich culture. Living in Texas, she currently accepts new clients; whether student, professional or retired. She uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help adults both young and seasoned to make sense of the world around them.
She also has clinical experience working with adolescents and adults who struggle with relationships, depression, anxiety, addiction and more acute psychiatric disorders such as Bipolar Disorder.
Katherine Fields is a licensed clinical therapist and school counselor in the state of Texas. She is an army brat and former navy spouse which have afforded her the opportunity to experience a wide range of cultures, including South, Central America, Italy and Japan. Recently, Katherine traversed to Mexico for eight months to learn more about its rich culture. Living in Texas, she currently accepts new clients; whether student, professional or retired. She uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help adults both young and seasoned to make sense of the world around them.
Caroline Lopez
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75287
My experience includes depression, self-harm, bipolar disorder, anxiety, intellectual and developmental disorders, substance misuse, and homelessness.
My first priority in establishing a trusting therapeutic relationship is building rapport. I want to ensure that the treatment goals that you're working on are catered to your individual needs and wants. Throughout life, we encounter various hurdles, issues, and obstacles. I want to be the one who teaches you the applicable coping skills correlating with your situation and where you are in your life. Mental health recovery is a journey that can at times seem overwhelming, however- I feel like together that we can collaborate in order to help you to move forward confidently. I am a Licensed Master Social Worker in the state of Texas.
My experience includes depression, self-harm, bipolar disorder, anxiety, intellectual and developmental disorders, substance misuse, and homelessness.
My first priority in establishing a trusting therapeutic relationship is building rapport. I want to ensure that the treatment goals that you're working on are catered to your individual needs and wants. Throughout life, we encounter various hurdles, issues, and obstacles. I want to be the one who teaches you the applicable coping skills correlating with your situation and where you are in your life. Mental health recovery is a journey that can at times seem overwhelming, however- I feel like together that we can collaborate in order to help you to move forward confidently. I am a Licensed Master Social Worker in the state of Texas.
Andrea Perry
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Paris, TX 75460
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.
Landry Therapy Group
Psychologist, LPC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75206 (Online Only)
Therapy services for marital/couple, anxiety, depression, PTSD, self-injury, suicidal ideation/attempt, bipolar disorder, lesbian, gay, bi-sexual, transgender issues, & general life stresses & stressors.
Taking New Patients! We have over 25 years experience working with children and families performing comprehensive psychological valuations. Results of these evaluations can assist mental health professionals, medical personnel, educators, and members of treatment teams to help a client progress & have a better quality of life. : Our therapy goal is to form a bond of trust and commitment with our clients. With the proper support and guidance, we believe people have an inherent ability to persevere through any struggle with which they are confronted.
Therapy services for marital/couple, anxiety, depression, PTSD, self-injury, suicidal ideation/attempt, bipolar disorder, lesbian, gay, bi-sexual, transgender issues, & general life stresses & stressors.
Taking New Patients! We have over 25 years experience working with children and families performing comprehensive psychological valuations. Results of these evaluations can assist mental health professionals, medical personnel, educators, and members of treatment teams to help a client progress & have a better quality of life. : Our therapy goal is to form a bond of trust and commitment with our clients. With the proper support and guidance, we believe people have an inherent ability to persevere through any struggle with which they are confronted.
Minta Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frisco, TX 75034
Life can be stressful, I understand this. One of the first steps in reaching your goals is choosing a therapist whom you can trust. I provide a safe, confidential and nurturing atmosphere for individuals diagnosed with bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, psychosis, personality disorders and provide marital and family therapy. I have been employed in the field for over 20 years. I am currently accepting new clients and accept most major medical insurance. I offer a structured and trouble free resolution to the help that you are seeking.
Life can be stressful, I understand this. One of the first steps in reaching your goals is choosing a therapist whom you can trust. I provide a safe, confidential and nurturing atmosphere for individuals diagnosed with bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, psychosis, personality disorders and provide marital and family therapy. I have been employed in the field for over 20 years. I am currently accepting new clients and accept most major medical insurance. I offer a structured and trouble free resolution to the help that you are seeking.
Moran Baxter
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Flower Mound, TX 75028
My area of expertise lies in assisting adults facing a wide spectrum of mental health hurdles, including trauma, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and substance abuse.
Hello there! I have a heartfelt passion for helping individuals navigate their mental health challenges. I earned my Master's degree at Towson University in Maryland, but I've embraced the Texan way of life and am proud to call it home.
My area of expertise lies in assisting adults facing a wide spectrum of mental health hurdles, including trauma, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and substance abuse.
Hello there! I have a heartfelt passion for helping individuals navigate their mental health challenges. I earned my Master's degree at Towson University in Maryland, but I've embraced the Texan way of life and am proud to call it home.
Kerry Adamek
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Paris, TX 75460
Professional experience 10yrs in practice Stress, Anxiety Addictions Family conflicts Bipolar disorder Depression Additional areas of focus: Antisocial Personality, Autism and Asperger Syndrome, Blended Family Issues, Codependency, Dependent Personality, Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder (DMDD), Divorce and Separation, Domestic Violence, Drug and Alco.
I am licensed in Texas with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, family conflicts, & bipolar disorder. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Professional experience 10yrs in practice Stress, Anxiety Addictions Family conflicts Bipolar disorder Depression Additional areas of focus: Antisocial Personality, Autism and Asperger Syndrome, Blended Family Issues, Codependency, Dependent Personality, Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder (DMDD), Divorce and Separation, Domestic Violence, Drug and Alco.
I am licensed in Texas with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, family conflicts, & bipolar disorder. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Daniel Meisenheimer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Richardson, TX 75080 (Online Only)
Do you find that you have always felt different or highly sensitive? Are you anxious and overwhelmed in social situations or maybe noting that you have sensory sensitivities, or processing issues that make certain interactions challenging? This can be very alienating and exhausting to manage and can lead to self esteem issues and challenges like anxiety, depression, and increased instances of trauma. You may already have a diagnosis such as Autism, ADHD, Schizophrenia or Bipolar. In my therapy, I pull away from harmful "cure" based approaches, and instead, into approaches that nurture self-acceptance and healing.
Do you find that you have always felt different or highly sensitive? Are you anxious and overwhelmed in social situations or maybe noting that you have sensory sensitivities, or processing issues that make certain interactions challenging? This can be very alienating and exhausting to manage and can lead to self esteem issues and challenges like anxiety, depression, and increased instances of trauma. You may already have a diagnosis such as Autism, ADHD, Schizophrenia or Bipolar. In my therapy, I pull away from harmful "cure" based approaches, and instead, into approaches that nurture self-acceptance and healing.
Met Where You Are
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPCA, MA
Verified Verified
Colleyville, TX 76034
I also focus on: Trauma, Feeling lost, Helping helpers, Emotional balance, Reaching goals, Bipolar 1 and 2, Depression, Borderline, Anxiety, Autism.
My approach is to meet you where you are with empathy and caring. To support you in life regardless of what you have been through. Regardless of if you hate yourself or love yourself or how stuck you feel. I hope to support you to reach your goals, and if I can't, to help you find someone who can. This space is for you. What do you want to do? Who do you want to become? Whether all hope is lost or you just can't figure something out. Whether you have been diagnosed with a disorder, you just don't feel happy where you are, or you want to learn how to be healthier. My approach helps you become more of who you are and be whole again.
I also focus on: Trauma, Feeling lost, Helping helpers, Emotional balance, Reaching goals, Bipolar 1 and 2, Depression, Borderline, Anxiety, Autism.
My approach is to meet you where you are with empathy and caring. To support you in life regardless of what you have been through. Regardless of if you hate yourself or love yourself or how stuck you feel. I hope to support you to reach your goals, and if I can't, to help you find someone who can. This space is for you. What do you want to do? Who do you want to become? Whether all hope is lost or you just can't figure something out. Whether you have been diagnosed with a disorder, you just don't feel happy where you are, or you want to learn how to be healthier. My approach helps you become more of who you are and be whole again.
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.
Erica Sewell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, RPT, CAS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75252
My specialty areas include Autism Spectrum Disorder, Down Syndrome/Intellectual Disabilities, Rare Genetic Disorders, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Chronic Medical Conditions, ADHD, Grief, Self-Esteem, and Life Transitions.
In celebration of each individual's strengths and unique qualities, I offer an individualized approach that is customized to the needs of each client. I believe that with support, guidance, compassion, and understanding people have the ability to not only find solutions to their challenges, but the strength to make positive changes. I am passionate about working with children, teens, adults, and families and offer play therapy, activity therapy, expressive arts, and/or traditional talk therapy. I practice from a neurodiversity affirming lens where we focus on empowerment and appreciating everyone's unique differences.
My specialty areas include Autism Spectrum Disorder, Down Syndrome/Intellectual Disabilities, Rare Genetic Disorders, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Chronic Medical Conditions, ADHD, Grief, Self-Esteem, and Life Transitions.
In celebration of each individual's strengths and unique qualities, I offer an individualized approach that is customized to the needs of each client. I believe that with support, guidance, compassion, and understanding people have the ability to not only find solutions to their challenges, but the strength to make positive changes. I am passionate about working with children, teens, adults, and families and offer play therapy, activity therapy, expressive arts, and/or traditional talk therapy. I practice from a neurodiversity affirming lens where we focus on empowerment and appreciating everyone's unique differences.
Laurie Todd
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75071
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor in the state of Texas. I graduated with a MS in Counseling from Southern Methodist University. Throughout my career I have had experience in working with clients who have depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, dissociative identity disorder, schizoaffective disorder, gender/identity struggles, life adjustment stressors, grief, phobias, and PTSD/trauma. I am trained to treat clients with PTSD and trauma through Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM).
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor in the state of Texas. I graduated with a MS in Counseling from Southern Methodist University. Throughout my career I have had experience in working with clients who have depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, dissociative identity disorder, schizoaffective disorder, gender/identity struggles, life adjustment stressors, grief, phobias, and PTSD/trauma. I am trained to treat clients with PTSD and trauma through Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM).
Landry Therapy Group - Rockwall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rockwall, TX 75032
We offer treatment services for marital/couple, anxiety, depression, PTSD, self-injury, suicidal ideation/attempt, bipolar disorder, lesbian, gay, bi-sexual, transgender issues, & general life stresses & stressors.
*TAKING NEW CLIENTS* Our goal as therapists is to form a bond of trust and commitment with our clients. With the proper support and guidance in their lives, we believe people have an inherent ability to persevere through any struggle with which they are confronted. Jerianne specializes in working with adults, individuals, couples, families, depression self harm/suicidal ideation, and LGBTQ. We help clients cope with life's daily struggles and/or issues resulting from trauma and conflict and to cultivate a healthier style of living to ensure future well-being.
We offer treatment services for marital/couple, anxiety, depression, PTSD, self-injury, suicidal ideation/attempt, bipolar disorder, lesbian, gay, bi-sexual, transgender issues, & general life stresses & stressors.
*TAKING NEW CLIENTS* Our goal as therapists is to form a bond of trust and commitment with our clients. With the proper support and guidance in their lives, we believe people have an inherent ability to persevere through any struggle with which they are confronted. Jerianne specializes in working with adults, individuals, couples, families, depression self harm/suicidal ideation, and LGBTQ. We help clients cope with life's daily struggles and/or issues resulting from trauma and conflict and to cultivate a healthier style of living to ensure future well-being.
David L. Falkstein, Ph.D., & Associates
Psychologist, PhD, LSSP
Verified Verified
Allen, TX 75013
We have expertise in the areas of ADHD, depression, anxiety, Autism/Aspergers, dyslexia, learning disabilities, and emotional/behavioral disorders (anxiety, depression, Oppositional Defiant, and Bipolar Disorder).
Dr. Falkstein has worked in the mental health field since 1988 and has conducted several thousand evaluations over the past 25 years. Unlike most psychologists, Dr. Falkstein has experience and knowledge as a psychologist in private practice and as a school psychologist actually working in the schools. Dr. Falkstein has a clinical team that works with him that includes 6 other Psychologists and 4 Licensed Professional Counselors. We offer evaluation services and therapy services to children, adolescents, and adults.
We have expertise in the areas of ADHD, depression, anxiety, Autism/Aspergers, dyslexia, learning disabilities, and emotional/behavioral disorders (anxiety, depression, Oppositional Defiant, and Bipolar Disorder).
Dr. Falkstein has worked in the mental health field since 1988 and has conducted several thousand evaluations over the past 25 years. Unlike most psychologists, Dr. Falkstein has experience and knowledge as a psychologist in private practice and as a school psychologist actually working in the schools. Dr. Falkstein has a clinical team that works with him that includes 6 other Psychologists and 4 Licensed Professional Counselors. We offer evaluation services and therapy services to children, adolescents, and adults.
Paul R. Cuppett, PsyD, Licensed Psychologist
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Mansfield, TX 76063
When needed, psychological testing is conducted for diagnosing and treating learning difficulties, behavior and mood problems, depression, bipolar disorder and other psychiatric difficulties.
People generally don't seek out therapy when life or circumstances are going as they hoped or expected. For over 25 years, the practice of psychology has been my chosen profession. I consider it an honor to assist people in better understanding their circumstances and in identifying a path that can lead to growth and healing.
When needed, psychological testing is conducted for diagnosing and treating learning difficulties, behavior and mood problems, depression, bipolar disorder and other psychiatric difficulties.
People generally don't seek out therapy when life or circumstances are going as they hoped or expected. For over 25 years, the practice of psychology has been my chosen profession. I consider it an honor to assist people in better understanding their circumstances and in identifying a path that can lead to growth and healing.
Miles O'Brien
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPCA, MA
Verified Verified
Colleyville, TX 76034
I also focus on: Trauma, Feeling lost, Helping helpers, Emotional balance, Reaching goals, Bipolar 1 and 2, Depression, Borderline, Anxiety, Autism.
My approach is to meet you where you are with empathy and caring. To support you in life regardless of what you have been through. Regardless of if you hate yourself or love yourself or how stuck you feel. I hope to support you to reach your goals, and if I can't, to help you find someone who can. This space is for you. What do you want to do? Who do you want to become? Whether all hope is lost or you just can't figure something out. Whether you have been diagnosed with a disorder, you just don't feel happy where you are, or you want to learn how to be healthier. My approach helps you become more of who you are and be whole again.
I also focus on: Trauma, Feeling lost, Helping helpers, Emotional balance, Reaching goals, Bipolar 1 and 2, Depression, Borderline, Anxiety, Autism.
My approach is to meet you where you are with empathy and caring. To support you in life regardless of what you have been through. Regardless of if you hate yourself or love yourself or how stuck you feel. I hope to support you to reach your goals, and if I can't, to help you find someone who can. This space is for you. What do you want to do? Who do you want to become? Whether all hope is lost or you just can't figure something out. Whether you have been diagnosed with a disorder, you just don't feel happy where you are, or you want to learn how to be healthier. My approach helps you become more of who you are and be whole again.
Casey Leamy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCDC, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75252
My experience encompasses substance abuse, self-harm, domestic violence, trauma, adolescent behavioral issues, relational issues, family conflict, parenting, depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, Adjustment Disorders, Bipolar, Borderline, and ADHD.
Nothing in life is one size fits all; therapy is no exception. My first priority is to establish a trusting relationship with you, then together create goals tailored to your individual needs. As humans, we tend to shy away from uncomfortable, unwanted, or overwhelming feelings/thoughts. We all develop habits to cope; sometimes those habits may no longer be helpful. In a non-judgmental and safe environment, we will work together, unlock your potential and create the change you desire. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor and fully trained in EMDR in Texas.
My experience encompasses substance abuse, self-harm, domestic violence, trauma, adolescent behavioral issues, relational issues, family conflict, parenting, depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, Adjustment Disorders, Bipolar, Borderline, and ADHD.
Nothing in life is one size fits all; therapy is no exception. My first priority is to establish a trusting relationship with you, then together create goals tailored to your individual needs. As humans, we tend to shy away from uncomfortable, unwanted, or overwhelming feelings/thoughts. We all develop habits to cope; sometimes those habits may no longer be helpful. In a non-judgmental and safe environment, we will work together, unlock your potential and create the change you desire. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor and fully trained in EMDR in Texas.
Jacqui S. Hayes
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MMFC, MACE
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Prairie, TX 75051
My goal for you in therapy is to walk with you to solve the problem of anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, low self-worth, women's issues, certain relationship problems, and helping you to pivot in a world of uncertainty.
I feel honored that you stopped on my page and hope that I can serve you well. My experience as a therapist has been with adults, tweens, teenagers, toddlers, and supporting the parent-child connection. I have counseled for 14 years, in many different environments, such as in homes, schools, courts, juvenile detention centers, hospitals, my office and on virtual calls. Currently, I do therapy in my office and on virtual calls.
My goal for you in therapy is to walk with you to solve the problem of anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, low self-worth, women's issues, certain relationship problems, and helping you to pivot in a world of uncertainty.
I feel honored that you stopped on my page and hope that I can serve you well. My experience as a therapist has been with adults, tweens, teenagers, toddlers, and supporting the parent-child connection. I have counseled for 14 years, in many different environments, such as in homes, schools, courts, juvenile detention centers, hospitals, my office and on virtual calls. Currently, I do therapy in my office and on virtual calls.
Bryan Gray
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPC-A, MA
Verified Verified
Garland, TX 75043
Hello, I'm Bryan Gray. I understand that you are looking for someone who can offer high-quality services, is relatable, and truly understands your needs. I have a wealth of experience working with diverse individuals and tackling a wide range of issues. I'm here to provide support and guidance, regardless of the mental health challenges you're encountering. Whether it's anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, or any other condition, please know that you don't have to face it alone. I offer a safe and inclusive environment where you can feel welcome.
Hello, I'm Bryan Gray. I understand that you are looking for someone who can offer high-quality services, is relatable, and truly understands your needs. I have a wealth of experience working with diverse individuals and tackling a wide range of issues. I'm here to provide support and guidance, regardless of the mental health challenges you're encountering. Whether it's anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, or any other condition, please know that you don't have to face it alone. I offer a safe and inclusive environment where you can feel welcome.
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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.