Photo of Rhonda Kay Fousek, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gillespie County, TX
Rhonda Kay Fousek
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Verified Verified
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

Online Therapists

Photo of Maeve Larkin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gillespie County, TX
Maeve Larkin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78759
Maeve has worked with both adolescents and young adults coping with a wide array of mental health diagnoses: Depression, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, and Borderline Personality Disorder, in addition to Autism Spectrum Disorder and LGBTQ+ individuals.
Maeve Larkin (she/her) is a Licensed Master Social Worker. Born and raised in Boston, MA, Maeve received her Master’s degree in Clinical Social Work from Boston College, and a Bachelor’s in Human Services from Northeastern University. Maeve’s professional experience with dialectical behavioral therapy began while working as a clinical intern at The Victor School, a therapeutic high school in Acton, MA. While at the school, she created and facilitated a socio-emotional skills group that utilized techniques in mindfulness and emotional regulation in addition to offering one-on-one therapeutic services.
Maeve has worked with both adolescents and young adults coping with a wide array of mental health diagnoses: Depression, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, and Borderline Personality Disorder, in addition to Autism Spectrum Disorder and LGBTQ+ individuals.
Maeve Larkin (she/her) is a Licensed Master Social Worker. Born and raised in Boston, MA, Maeve received her Master’s degree in Clinical Social Work from Boston College, and a Bachelor’s in Human Services from Northeastern University. Maeve’s professional experience with dialectical behavioral therapy began while working as a clinical intern at The Victor School, a therapeutic high school in Acton, MA. While at the school, she created and facilitated a socio-emotional skills group that utilized techniques in mindfulness and emotional regulation in addition to offering one-on-one therapeutic services.
(512) 877-7518 View (512) 877-7518
Photo of Miranda M. Solis, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gillespie County, TX
Miranda M. Solis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78229
Other specialties include sensory processing disorders, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and personality disorders.
I graduated from UTSA in 2012 with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with minors in Sociology and Philosophy and again in 2015 with a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I worked in higher education, counseling college students for nine years. While I have a passion for helping young adults navigate their mental health, I equally enjoy working with teens, couples and families. I draw from various therapeutic styles, including CBT and Relational-Cultural Theory. I enjoy taking a person-centered approach to journey alongside my clients throughout the therapeutic process.
Other specialties include sensory processing disorders, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and personality disorders.
I graduated from UTSA in 2012 with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with minors in Sociology and Philosophy and again in 2015 with a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I worked in higher education, counseling college students for nine years. While I have a passion for helping young adults navigate their mental health, I equally enjoy working with teens, couples and families. I draw from various therapeutic styles, including CBT and Relational-Cultural Theory. I enjoy taking a person-centered approach to journey alongside my clients throughout the therapeutic process.
(210) 880-2393 View (210) 880-2393
Photo of Spirit of Serene Healing Counseling LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gillespie County, 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
Photo of Victoria McCool, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Gillespie County, TX
Victoria McCool
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78230
As a mental health therapist, I have the privilege of working with a diverse range of clients aged 16 and above. I specialize in providing support to individuals who are navigating various challenges, such as ADHD, autism, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and life transitions. My goal is to create a safe and inclusive space where clients can explore their unique experiences and develop strategies to enhance their well-being. It's incredibly rewarding to witness the growth and resilience of my clients as they overcome obstacles and find their path to a fulfilling life.
As a mental health therapist, I have the privilege of working with a diverse range of clients aged 16 and above. I specialize in providing support to individuals who are navigating various challenges, such as ADHD, autism, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and life transitions. My goal is to create a safe and inclusive space where clients can explore their unique experiences and develop strategies to enhance their well-being. It's incredibly rewarding to witness the growth and resilience of my clients as they overcome obstacles and find their path to a fulfilling life.
(210) 966-8292 View (210) 966-8292
Photo of Jan Lea Anderson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gillespie County, TX
Jan Lea Anderson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Cedar Park, TX 78613
It's a drug free approach to anxiety, bipolar, depression and behavioral issues with children.
I understand how important it is for a client to be able to feel safe and confident when talking to someone about their deepest feelings. I feel honored that I am trusted with that confidence and my clients find that within the first few minutes of session they can relax and know they won't be judged and that I'm there to help. We work together to promote change and its easier to do when you're not alone in the process.
It's a drug free approach to anxiety, bipolar, depression and behavioral issues with children.
I understand how important it is for a client to be able to feel safe and confident when talking to someone about their deepest feelings. I feel honored that I am trusted with that confidence and my clients find that within the first few minutes of session they can relax and know they won't be judged and that I'm there to help. We work together to promote change and its easier to do when you're not alone in the process.
(512) 271-5413 View (512) 271-5413
Photo of Collin Speciale, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gillespie County, TX
Collin Speciale
Licensed Professional Counselor, M Ed, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78705  (Online Only)
It takes a lot of courage to seek out mental health services, I'm glad you found my page! I'm eager to help individuals, couples, or families seeking support for Substance Use Disorders, Anxiety and Depression, ADHD, Bipolar, Personality Disorders, Simple or Complex Traumas, or any type of Relationship Issues. Additionally, our work could include improving self-esteem, self-worth, communication and boundaries in relationships, grief and loss, direction in school, career, or difficult life decisions that you'd like to work on, work through, or resolve.
It takes a lot of courage to seek out mental health services, I'm glad you found my page! I'm eager to help individuals, couples, or families seeking support for Substance Use Disorders, Anxiety and Depression, ADHD, Bipolar, Personality Disorders, Simple or Complex Traumas, or any type of Relationship Issues. Additionally, our work could include improving self-esteem, self-worth, communication and boundaries in relationships, grief and loss, direction in school, career, or difficult life decisions that you'd like to work on, work through, or resolve.
(512) 234-4849 View (512) 234-4849
Photo of Gina Antonia Nepa, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gillespie County, 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 Kathy Keith, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gillespie County, TX
Kathy Keith
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Round Rock, TX 78681
My name is Kathy Keith, MA, a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 24 years of clinical experience. I have experience working with adults, teenagers, and couples with Anger Management, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, Addiction, Behavioral Issues, Codependency, Coping Skills, Depression, Dual Diagnosis, Eating Disorders, Schizophrenia, Trauma, PTSD, and many more. The most common theoretical approaches I use are CBT, Interpersonal psychology, Trauma Focused CBT, Reality Therapy, ACT, Mindfulness, and positive psychology. I believe that I am supportive, compassionate, and respectful that guide you to where you want to go!
My name is Kathy Keith, MA, a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 24 years of clinical experience. I have experience working with adults, teenagers, and couples with Anger Management, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, Addiction, Behavioral Issues, Codependency, Coping Skills, Depression, Dual Diagnosis, Eating Disorders, Schizophrenia, Trauma, PTSD, and many more. The most common theoretical approaches I use are CBT, Interpersonal psychology, Trauma Focused CBT, Reality Therapy, ACT, Mindfulness, and positive psychology. I believe that I am supportive, compassionate, and respectful that guide you to where you want to go!
(469) 772-5769 View (469) 772-5769
Photo of Tony Vitela, LCSW, SAP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gillespie County, TX
Tony Vitela, LCSW, SAP
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SAP
Verified Verified
Wimberley, TX 78676
I work with clients on a spectrum of issues including ADD/ADHD/ODD, Alcohol & Drugs, Anger Management, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorders, Conduct Disorders, Depression, Eating Disorders, Grief & Bereveavement, Life Transitions, Military Life Issues, OCD, Panic Atttacks, Parenting, Phobias, Psychotic Disorders, PTSD, Relationships, and Work-related Issues.
Licensed since 1993 and in private practice since 1999. Previous work-related experience includes working at a residential treatment center, youth shelter, juvenile detention center, chemical dependency unit, adolescent and adult in-patient hospital, Employee Assistance Program, crisis intervention, in-take assessments, and intensive out-patient programming. Over the past two decades, I have served individuals, couples, families, children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly. I am a certified and approved DOT Substance Abuse Professional.
I work with clients on a spectrum of issues including ADD/ADHD/ODD, Alcohol & Drugs, Anger Management, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorders, Conduct Disorders, Depression, Eating Disorders, Grief & Bereveavement, Life Transitions, Military Life Issues, OCD, Panic Atttacks, Parenting, Phobias, Psychotic Disorders, PTSD, Relationships, and Work-related Issues.
Licensed since 1993 and in private practice since 1999. Previous work-related experience includes working at a residential treatment center, youth shelter, juvenile detention center, chemical dependency unit, adolescent and adult in-patient hospital, Employee Assistance Program, crisis intervention, in-take assessments, and intensive out-patient programming. Over the past two decades, I have served individuals, couples, families, children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly. I am a certified and approved DOT Substance Abuse Professional.
(210) 941-2132 View (210) 941-2132
Carla Neven
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LPC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78229
Hi, I'm Carla, an LPC in Texas. I have worked with adolescents, adults, and families for over nine years in non-profit social services agencies. I graduated from Texas Tech University with a Bachelor's of Art in 2012 and my Master's of Art in Professional Counseling from Amberton University in Dallas, Texas, in 2019. My goal as a therapist is to help teach you a set of tools to help you live a fulfilling and independent life. I work primarily with mood disorders (including depression and Bipolar disorders), personality disorders, trauma/PTSD, and stress management.
Hi, I'm Carla, an LPC in Texas. I have worked with adolescents, adults, and families for over nine years in non-profit social services agencies. I graduated from Texas Tech University with a Bachelor's of Art in 2012 and my Master's of Art in Professional Counseling from Amberton University in Dallas, Texas, in 2019. My goal as a therapist is to help teach you a set of tools to help you live a fulfilling and independent life. I work primarily with mood disorders (including depression and Bipolar disorders), personality disorders, trauma/PTSD, and stress management.
(210) 899-0543 View (210) 899-0543
Photo of Louis Haling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gillespie County, TX
Louis Haling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78758  (Online Only)
I am an especially good fit for those who struggle with questions of meaning; anyone overburdened with feelings of guilt and shame; those who feel like they are outsiders or misfits; and creative and intellectual types. I counsel individuals experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, mood disorders such as Bipolar disorder, eating disorders, and other mental health conditions. I encourage you to express yourself authentically in session, and I welcome people of all identities, expressions, and backgrounds.
I am an especially good fit for those who struggle with questions of meaning; anyone overburdened with feelings of guilt and shame; those who feel like they are outsiders or misfits; and creative and intellectual types. I counsel individuals experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, mood disorders such as Bipolar disorder, eating disorders, and other mental health conditions. I encourage you to express yourself authentically in session, and I welcome people of all identities, expressions, and backgrounds.
(512) 714-3226 View (512) 714-3226
Photo of Robin Elizabeth Remsing, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gillespie County, TX
Robin Elizabeth Remsing
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78746
I have experience with a wide range of mental health disorders including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, suicidality and substance use.
I believe the therapeutic relationship should be authentic and emotionally safe for you. I am practical and honest with feedback and have a laid back and warm approach. I will go at the pace you set and provide insight and encouragement. I will be respectful of your cultural, spiritual and lifestyle choices.
I have experience with a wide range of mental health disorders including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, suicidality and substance use.
I believe the therapeutic relationship should be authentic and emotionally safe for you. I am practical and honest with feedback and have a laid back and warm approach. I will go at the pace you set and provide insight and encouragement. I will be respectful of your cultural, spiritual and lifestyle choices.
(830) 271-2135 View (830) 271-2135
Photo of Matthew Turner, Psychologist in Gillespie County, TX
Matthew Turner
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78759
Waitlist for new clients
Problems I often treat include anxiety, mood disorders (depression and bipolar disorders), relationship issues, and anger problems.
Greetings! I hold a doctorate in clinical psychology and have extensive training in the science and art of psychotherapy. I am Board Certified in clinical psychology (American Board of Professional Psychology). My approach to psychotherapy is grounded in empirical methods, that is, methods proven by scientific research to address mental illness and relationship issues people often bring to a psychotherapist for help managing and ultimately overcome. I offer individual psychotherapy as well as psychological testing.
Problems I often treat include anxiety, mood disorders (depression and bipolar disorders), relationship issues, and anger problems.
Greetings! I hold a doctorate in clinical psychology and have extensive training in the science and art of psychotherapy. I am Board Certified in clinical psychology (American Board of Professional Psychology). My approach to psychotherapy is grounded in empirical methods, that is, methods proven by scientific research to address mental illness and relationship issues people often bring to a psychotherapist for help managing and ultimately overcome. I offer individual psychotherapy as well as psychological testing.
(361) 444-2344 View (361) 444-2344
Photo of Meredith Manas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gillespie County, TX
Meredith Manas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Georgetown, TX 78628
Meredith has worked in a variety of settings, both residential and outpatient, treating adults with a variety of issues including substance use disorders, dual diagnosis, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and personality disorders. She approaches her clients with genuineness, compassion, and positive regard to meet them where they are in their journey towards living a life that is meaningful to the client. She works to instill motivation and hope that change is attainable.
Meredith has worked in a variety of settings, both residential and outpatient, treating adults with a variety of issues including substance use disorders, dual diagnosis, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and personality disorders. She approaches her clients with genuineness, compassion, and positive regard to meet them where they are in their journey towards living a life that is meaningful to the client. She works to instill motivation and hope that change is attainable.
(512) 877-7806 View (512) 877-7806
Photo of Becca Allen Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gillespie County, TX
Becca Allen Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CEDS, PMH-C, LMHC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78209
Hi! Welcome to Becca Allen Counseling. Are you struggling finding it hard to relax, being overly cautious, hyper detail focused or perfectionistic? Do you often have chronic treatment resistant anxiety and or depression? You might be over controlled. What is overcontrol you ask? Overcontrol or OC is having too much self control. Too much of anything can be problematic. Self-control is the ability to inhibit urges, impulses, behaviors, or desires to delay gratification in order to pursue a long term goal. Self control is often associated with success and happiness.
Hi! Welcome to Becca Allen Counseling. Are you struggling finding it hard to relax, being overly cautious, hyper detail focused or perfectionistic? Do you often have chronic treatment resistant anxiety and or depression? You might be over controlled. What is overcontrol you ask? Overcontrol or OC is having too much self control. Too much of anything can be problematic. Self-control is the ability to inhibit urges, impulses, behaviors, or desires to delay gratification in order to pursue a long term goal. Self control is often associated with success and happiness.
(210) 934-0137 View (210) 934-0137
Photo of Lifebulb Counseling & Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gillespie County, TX
Lifebulb Counseling & Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Round Rock, TX 78664  (Online Only)
We're confident we can help you achieve your therapy goals. We believe you're best served by a therapist passionate about not only their work, but who they work with as well. That's why we started Lifebulb - We're committed to helping therapists to get back to enjoying their work, so you, our client, can receive the highest quality therapy services, whether in person at one of our locations or online through telehealth. We hire only highly trained and educated, licensed clinicians dedicated to the therapy process. Working with us, you'll get results.
We're confident we can help you achieve your therapy goals. We believe you're best served by a therapist passionate about not only their work, but who they work with as well. That's why we started Lifebulb - We're committed to helping therapists to get back to enjoying their work, so you, our client, can receive the highest quality therapy services, whether in person at one of our locations or online through telehealth. We hire only highly trained and educated, licensed clinicians dedicated to the therapy process. Working with us, you'll get results.
(512) 805-7961 View (512) 805-7961
Photo of Megan Swiderski, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gillespie County, TX
Megan Swiderski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, MS
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78759
If you’re here, you may be curious about supporting your mental health and I recognize that asking for help isn’t easy. Finding a therapist that works for you can be a challenge and I applaud you for taking these steps! My goal is to create a safe space where you feel comfortable showing up authentically so we can explore and embrace radical acceptance. I celebrate all identities and empower others to find the strengths in their own uniqueness. Through the process of unlearning ineffective thought and behavior patterns, we can unleash our innate resilience and begin living life to the fullest.
If you’re here, you may be curious about supporting your mental health and I recognize that asking for help isn’t easy. Finding a therapist that works for you can be a challenge and I applaud you for taking these steps! My goal is to create a safe space where you feel comfortable showing up authentically so we can explore and embrace radical acceptance. I celebrate all identities and empower others to find the strengths in their own uniqueness. Through the process of unlearning ineffective thought and behavior patterns, we can unleash our innate resilience and begin living life to the fullest.
(512) 641-4492 View (512) 641-4492
Photo of Carol Dodgen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gillespie County, TX
Carol Dodgen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78751  (Online Only)
The purpose of therapy is generally straight forward. Individuals seek professional help when conflict in their world causes pain. In the counseling session, clients share their concerns and therapists share their training and professional experience . I believe that it is my responsibility to provide a safe place where clients can talk about their thoughts, feelings and experiences in a non-judgmental atmosphere. My approach is interactive, validating, compassionate and collaborative. Depending on the client and/or the specific situation, I work from a variety of perspectives.
The purpose of therapy is generally straight forward. Individuals seek professional help when conflict in their world causes pain. In the counseling session, clients share their concerns and therapists share their training and professional experience . I believe that it is my responsibility to provide a safe place where clients can talk about their thoughts, feelings and experiences in a non-judgmental atmosphere. My approach is interactive, validating, compassionate and collaborative. Depending on the client and/or the specific situation, I work from a variety of perspectives.
(361) 444-2301 View (361) 444-2301
Photo of Camilla Yu, Counselor in Gillespie County, TX
Camilla Yu
Counselor, MSc, LMHC, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78746  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with intimate relationships or relationships with family, friends, or coworkers? Have you been wrestling to move beyond past traumatic experiences? Do you feel like despite your best effort, you can't seem to act on your true intentions and end up feeling trapped in defeat and self-doubt?
Are you struggling with intimate relationships or relationships with family, friends, or coworkers? Have you been wrestling to move beyond past traumatic experiences? Do you feel like despite your best effort, you can't seem to act on your true intentions and end up feeling trapped in defeat and self-doubt?
(646) 681-4263 View (646) 681-4263

See more therapy options for Gillespie County

Bipolar Disorder Therapists

What is the most successful approach to treating bipolar disorder?

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

What happens in therapy for bipolar disorder?

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

What kinds of problems does therapy help with?

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

What is the goal of therapy for bipolar disorder?

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