Therapists in Grayson County, TX

Photo of Melissa Tarver, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Grayson County, TX
Melissa Tarver
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denison, TX 75020
There is not an ideal patient for me. I meet the person where they are at financially, emotionally, physically and socially to review needs, goals and expectations of therapy. I feel this is an integrative approach that gives the patient to steering wheel and I am the merely the GPS guide to their overall life goals.
There is not an ideal patient for me. I meet the person where they are at financially, emotionally, physically and socially to review needs, goals and expectations of therapy. I feel this is an integrative approach that gives the patient to steering wheel and I am the merely the GPS guide to their overall life goals.
(903) 466-7868 View (903) 466-7868
Photo of Theresa 'terri' M Donsbach......2D Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Grayson County, TX
Theresa 'terri' M Donsbach......2D Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tioga, TX 76271
Healing is the best method to overcome adversity. It is your way of saying “I am taking my future back”. We are a product of our experiences, yet they should not determine our trajectory. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Supervisor (LCSW-S) in Texas and Florida, certified in Traumatology, EMDR, TF-CBT, CISM, Play Therapy and Animal Assisted Therapy with over 25 years of experience. I utilize a person-centered approach facilitating an individual’s introspection in identifying the thoughts fueling emotions and how it influences our behavioral and physiological reactions.
Healing is the best method to overcome adversity. It is your way of saying “I am taking my future back”. We are a product of our experiences, yet they should not determine our trajectory. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Supervisor (LCSW-S) in Texas and Florida, certified in Traumatology, EMDR, TF-CBT, CISM, Play Therapy and Animal Assisted Therapy with over 25 years of experience. I utilize a person-centered approach facilitating an individual’s introspection in identifying the thoughts fueling emotions and how it influences our behavioral and physiological reactions.
(940) 969-4300 View (940) 969-4300
Photo of Whole Living, LLC, Psychologist in Grayson County, TX
Whole Living, LLC
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gunter, TX 75058
Our focus is to help individuals and families heal, energize, and move forward by providing a neutral safe space with customized treatment plans. We promise to be there for you every step of your journey.
Our focus is to help individuals and families heal, energize, and move forward by providing a neutral safe space with customized treatment plans. We promise to be there for you every step of your journey.
(903) 228-4719 View (903) 228-4719
Photo of Dr. James Rodney Wilkins, Licensed Professional Counselor in Grayson County, TX
Dr. James Rodney Wilkins
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sherman, TX 75090
Are you feeling trapped, lost, overwhelmed, defeated, or anxious? I am so glad that you have decided to take this important first step in reaching out for support. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who provides a safe place to sit with you as we process current struggles in our journey towards healing, acceptance, and peace. I work with adults, couples, teens/adolescents who are experiencing difficulties with mood, motivation, depression, anxiety, identity development, family/relationships, and beyond. It's my goal to foster understanding and assist you in your aspirations toward your defined happiness to live your best life.
Are you feeling trapped, lost, overwhelmed, defeated, or anxious? I am so glad that you have decided to take this important first step in reaching out for support. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who provides a safe place to sit with you as we process current struggles in our journey towards healing, acceptance, and peace. I work with adults, couples, teens/adolescents who are experiencing difficulties with mood, motivation, depression, anxiety, identity development, family/relationships, and beyond. It's my goal to foster understanding and assist you in your aspirations toward your defined happiness to live your best life.
(903) 294-4327 View (903) 294-4327
Photo of Deborah Wall, Licensed Professional Counselor in Grayson County, TX
Deborah Wall
Licensed Professional Counselor, MBS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sherman, TX 75091  (Online Only)
Deborah Wall, LPC is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Oklahoma and Texas. Her extensive career history has focused on stabilizing and promoting personal functioning while empowering others to achieve long-term growth. As an action-oriented therapist, Deborah strives to help others resolve stressors and become the best version of themselves. This concept is evidenced by her advocation of adults, children and families to become addiction free, resolve traumas, and develop a healthy sense of self to combat life's difficulties. Additionally, she is a certified SYMBIS premarital and marital counseling facilitator.
Deborah Wall, LPC is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Oklahoma and Texas. Her extensive career history has focused on stabilizing and promoting personal functioning while empowering others to achieve long-term growth. As an action-oriented therapist, Deborah strives to help others resolve stressors and become the best version of themselves. This concept is evidenced by her advocation of adults, children and families to become addiction free, resolve traumas, and develop a healthy sense of self to combat life's difficulties. Additionally, she is a certified SYMBIS premarital and marital counseling facilitator.
(430) 205-8515 View (430) 205-8515
Photo of CHART Counseling Services PLLC, Komeka Biddle, Licensed Professional Counselor in Grayson County, TX
CHART Counseling Services PLLC, Komeka Biddle
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Sherman, TX 75090
Are you tired of putting effort into people and problems that require more energy than you have and it's still NEVER enough! Does your involvement lead to the loss of your identity and often leads to a bad situation getting worse?! Now it's you who goes to bed depressed, wake up anxious, and feel lost because you've given everything you got! Living, loving, and supporting yourself or others is not suppose to be exhausting or one-sided. One-way streets have to end somewhere. I can help reroute you to Restoration Ave. where you will find the Recovery Inn and Suites! Our mission is Changing Hearts and Restoring Hearts Trust (CHART).
Are you tired of putting effort into people and problems that require more energy than you have and it's still NEVER enough! Does your involvement lead to the loss of your identity and often leads to a bad situation getting worse?! Now it's you who goes to bed depressed, wake up anxious, and feel lost because you've given everything you got! Living, loving, and supporting yourself or others is not suppose to be exhausting or one-sided. One-way streets have to end somewhere. I can help reroute you to Restoration Ave. where you will find the Recovery Inn and Suites! Our mission is Changing Hearts and Restoring Hearts Trust (CHART).
(469) 529-7643 View (469) 529-7643

Online Therapists

Photo of Kelleigh Head, Psychologist in Grayson County, TX
Kelleigh Head
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Richardson, TX 75081
Casual, relaxed, & approachable therapeutic atmosphere to help clients with any issue they wish to discuss. Dr. Kelleigh Head (pronounced "Kelly") is a Psychologist in Richardson & Prosper TX. Since 2007, she has worked with a variety of clients and issues (anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and just life in general). She can utilize different orientations and styles as determined by need of client. Her primary focus is conducting psychological evaluations. These assessments are comprehensive and utilize industry standard measures.
Casual, relaxed, & approachable therapeutic atmosphere to help clients with any issue they wish to discuss. Dr. Kelleigh Head (pronounced "Kelly") is a Psychologist in Richardson & Prosper TX. Since 2007, she has worked with a variety of clients and issues (anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and just life in general). She can utilize different orientations and styles as determined by need of client. Her primary focus is conducting psychological evaluations. These assessments are comprehensive and utilize industry standard measures.
(469) 557-8183 View (469) 557-8183
Photo of Krista Woods, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Grayson County, TX
Krista Woods
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75243
Have you been struggling with feelings of sadness, anxiety or panic attacks? Or are you tired of people using you or struggling to get motivated? I provide compassionate care while providing the tools and information to help you heal. Other challenges like drugs/alcohol, bipolar disorder; or if you're not sure what the problem is but need help and support, I will work with you to help you live a better, healthier life. My extensive experience also includes helping children, teens and adults impacted by foster care, have been adopted, are birth parents, or who are adoptive/ foster parents.
Have you been struggling with feelings of sadness, anxiety or panic attacks? Or are you tired of people using you or struggling to get motivated? I provide compassionate care while providing the tools and information to help you heal. Other challenges like drugs/alcohol, bipolar disorder; or if you're not sure what the problem is but need help and support, I will work with you to help you live a better, healthier life. My extensive experience also includes helping children, teens and adults impacted by foster care, have been adopted, are birth parents, or who are adoptive/ foster parents.
(940) 220-9758 View (940) 220-9758
Photo of Laurie Todd, Licensed Professional Counselor in Grayson County, TX
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).
(702) 766-4674 View (702) 766-4674
Photo of Casey Leamy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Grayson County, TX
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.
(469) 778-4625 View (469) 778-4625
Photo of Desiree Frazier, Psychologist in Grayson County, TX
Desiree Frazier
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Flower Mound, TX 75022
I am a licensed psychologist who specializes in treatment for children and adolescents (including young adults up to age 25) and their families, especially regarding trauma, self-harm, suicidal ideation, and mood disorders. I have an extensive history of working with issues related to history of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, OCD, and issues related to abuse, death, and divorce. My primary objective is to improve family functioning and overall quality of life. I am passionate about helping individuals and families work toward their vision of cohesion and happiness.
I am a licensed psychologist who specializes in treatment for children and adolescents (including young adults up to age 25) and their families, especially regarding trauma, self-harm, suicidal ideation, and mood disorders. I have an extensive history of working with issues related to history of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, OCD, and issues related to abuse, death, and divorce. My primary objective is to improve family functioning and overall quality of life. I am passionate about helping individuals and families work toward their vision of cohesion and happiness.
(972) 815-1034 View (972) 815-1034
Photo of Urban Counseling Clique, Licensed Professional Counselor in Grayson County, TX
Urban Counseling Clique
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MS, LPC-S, CHT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75243  (Online Only)
Specializing in Depression, Bipolar disorder, Anxiety, and trauma.
Are you tired of traditional counseling and want to see real results in your situation? At Urban Counseling Clique we do not tell you what you want to hear. We tell you the truth. If you are seeking a counselor with a "real" approach on life you have come to the right place. We provide you with the tools to help you make significant changes in your life and see real progress.
Specializing in Depression, Bipolar disorder, Anxiety, and trauma.
Are you tired of traditional counseling and want to see real results in your situation? At Urban Counseling Clique we do not tell you what you want to hear. We tell you the truth. If you are seeking a counselor with a "real" approach on life you have come to the right place. We provide you with the tools to help you make significant changes in your life and see real progress.
(469) 707-9643 View (469) 707-9643
Photo of Lifeworks Counseling Center, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Grayson County, TX
Lifeworks Counseling Center, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Addison, TX 75001
Lifeworks therapists work with most emotional/psychological disorders; such as, major depression, bipolar, anxiety/PTSD, anger/stress, grief & personality disorders.
Lifeworks Counseling Center, PLLC has been in business since 1992. We provide therapy for ages 4 and up. We have 9 therapists (LPC, LMFT, LCSW) who provide counseling for almost any emotional/mental/spiritual challenge people face in today's culture. We have therapists on most major insurance and EAP panels and also work with private pay clients as well.
Lifeworks therapists work with most emotional/psychological disorders; such as, major depression, bipolar, anxiety/PTSD, anger/stress, grief & personality disorders.
Lifeworks Counseling Center, PLLC has been in business since 1992. We provide therapy for ages 4 and up. We have 9 therapists (LPC, LMFT, LCSW) who provide counseling for almost any emotional/mental/spiritual challenge people face in today's culture. We have therapists on most major insurance and EAP panels and also work with private pay clients as well.
(972) 435-0231 View (972) 435-0231
Photo of Rachel Gerbosi, Licensed Professional Counselor in Grayson County, TX
Rachel Gerbosi
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LMFT, LCDC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75252  (Online Only)
My experience includes, 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.
My first priority in the counseling process is to ensure a trusting therapeutic relationship between you and I. No two people are the same, and it is my mission for us to work together to establish goals that are personalized to fit your unique needs. We, as individuals, encounter challenges in life that cause us to feel overwhelmed. It is important for me to help you see your potential, finding meaning and direction in your life, through positive encouragement. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, and Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor, in the state of Texas.
My experience includes, 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.
My first priority in the counseling process is to ensure a trusting therapeutic relationship between you and I. No two people are the same, and it is my mission for us to work together to establish goals that are personalized to fit your unique needs. We, as individuals, encounter challenges in life that cause us to feel overwhelmed. It is important for me to help you see your potential, finding meaning and direction in your life, through positive encouragement. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, and Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor, in the state of Texas.
(469) 294-8589 View (469) 294-8589
Photo of Kristina McCray, Licensed Professional Counselor in Grayson County, TX
Kristina McCray
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LSSP
Verified Verified
Richardson, TX 75082
Kristina McCray is a licensed professional counselor with over 15 years of experience working as a mental health professional. She has experience with working with people of all ages, cultures, and backgrounds on a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, OCD, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, Autism Spectrum Disorder, personality disorders, substance addiction, identity problems, self-esteem problems, domestic, sexual abuse, ADHD, etc. Kristina also has helped many people who have experienced physical and emotional trauma. Moreover, Kristina is a School Psychologist.
Kristina McCray is a licensed professional counselor with over 15 years of experience working as a mental health professional. She has experience with working with people of all ages, cultures, and backgrounds on a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, OCD, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, Autism Spectrum Disorder, personality disorders, substance addiction, identity problems, self-esteem problems, domestic, sexual abuse, ADHD, etc. Kristina also has helped many people who have experienced physical and emotional trauma. Moreover, Kristina is a School Psychologist.
(512) 883-7116 View (512) 883-7116
Photo of Paul D Myers, Counselor in Grayson County, TX
Paul D Myers
Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Frisco, TX 75034
Counseling is my life's calling! I have a background in helping people with the following struggles: depression, anxiety, ADD, bipolar, past abuse, marital or family conflict, parenting issues, troubled teenagers, and career decisions.
I understand your pain, I've been there. I want to help you, your children and, your family make life transformations and create positive change. Imagine freedom from anxiety, the ability to break depression, and a new healthy direction for your life! I've seen great results in my clients and I want to you be the next person I serve to make a positive difference. I counsel from a faith based cognitive behavioral perspective to help you gain control over your thoughts and feelings and overcome the pain that life throws our way.
Counseling is my life's calling! I have a background in helping people with the following struggles: depression, anxiety, ADD, bipolar, past abuse, marital or family conflict, parenting issues, troubled teenagers, and career decisions.
I understand your pain, I've been there. I want to help you, your children and, your family make life transformations and create positive change. Imagine freedom from anxiety, the ability to break depression, and a new healthy direction for your life! I've seen great results in my clients and I want to you be the next person I serve to make a positive difference. I counsel from a faith based cognitive behavioral perspective to help you gain control over your thoughts and feelings and overcome the pain that life throws our way.
(972) 893-9036 View (972) 893-9036
Photo of Megan Rasmussen, Licensed Professional Counselor in Grayson County, TX
Megan Rasmussen
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Frisco, TX 75034
Amongst Megan’s areas of expertise are the treatment of Anxiety, Depression, Adjustment Disorder, Alcohol/ Chemical Dependency, Anger Management, Attachment Disorders, ADHD, Behavior Modification, Bipolar Disorder, Codependency, Domestic Violence, Disordered Eating, Gender Identity/ Sexuality, LGBTQIA+, Impulse Disorder, Mood Disorders, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Panic Disorder, Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Psychotic Disorder, Self-harm, Suicide Ideation, Sleep Disorders, Stress Management, Trauma, and Women’s Issues. She enjoys working with teenagers, adults, couples, and families.
Amongst Megan’s areas of expertise are the treatment of Anxiety, Depression, Adjustment Disorder, Alcohol/ Chemical Dependency, Anger Management, Attachment Disorders, ADHD, Behavior Modification, Bipolar Disorder, Codependency, Domestic Violence, Disordered Eating, Gender Identity/ Sexuality, LGBTQIA+, Impulse Disorder, Mood Disorders, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Panic Disorder, Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Psychotic Disorder, Self-harm, Suicide Ideation, Sleep Disorders, Stress Management, Trauma, and Women’s Issues. She enjoys working with teenagers, adults, couples, and families.
(214) 307-6252 View (214) 307-6252
Photo of David L. Falkstein, Ph.D., & Associates, Psychologist in Grayson County, TX
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.
(214) 427-1468 View (214) 427-1468
Photo of Monique M Thompson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Grayson County, TX
Monique M Thompson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LPC-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Frisco, TX 75034
I also offer traditional general mental health counseling for depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder.
Same or Next Day Appointments Available. I am a Mental Health Expert in my 21st year as a psychotherapist.
I also offer traditional general mental health counseling for depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder.
Same or Next Day Appointments Available. I am a Mental Health Expert in my 21st year as a psychotherapist.
(469) 470-9011 View (469) 470-9011
Photo of Counseling CARE, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Grayson County, TX
Counseling CARE
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
Prosper, TX 75078  (Online Only)
I can work with children, adults, couples, families, groups, & organizations. I have years of experience working with issues including but not limited to mental health diagnoses; couples & families in conflict; unhealthy relationships; grief & loss; trauma & crisis; stress, anxiety, & perfectionism; social & emotional learning; bullying & conflict resolution; depression & self-harming behaviors; life training & social skills; older adults & family supportive care; case management & networking to community resources. I love having the opportunity to focus on building upon personal strengths, healthy relationships & holistic wellness.
I can work with children, adults, couples, families, groups, & organizations. I have years of experience working with issues including but not limited to mental health diagnoses; couples & families in conflict; unhealthy relationships; grief & loss; trauma & crisis; stress, anxiety, & perfectionism; social & emotional learning; bullying & conflict resolution; depression & self-harming behaviors; life training & social skills; older adults & family supportive care; case management & networking to community resources. I love having the opportunity to focus on building upon personal strengths, healthy relationships & holistic wellness.
(972) 787-1221 View (972) 787-1221

See more therapy options for Grayson 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.