Photo of Amirah Saldivar-Smith, Licensed Professional Counselor in Harker Heights, TX
Amirah Saldivar-Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, LCDC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Harker Heights, TX 76548
Nowadays, world events have more impact on our individual lives than in the past. Despite the desire to maintain a healthy lifestyle balance, these situations such as global pandemics have made it more difficult. Do you want to build relationships, change your career path, or simply live happier? If so, I am here to provide support and share effective strategies to make your goals a reality. I am here to listen, provide support and guidance.
Nowadays, world events have more impact on our individual lives than in the past. Despite the desire to maintain a healthy lifestyle balance, these situations such as global pandemics have made it more difficult. Do you want to build relationships, change your career path, or simply live happier? If so, I am here to provide support and share effective strategies to make your goals a reality. I am here to listen, provide support and guidance.
(254) 556-3778 View (254) 556-3778
Photo of Loria A Lofton, Marriage & Family Therapist in Harker Heights, TX
Loria A Lofton
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harker Heights, TX 76548  (Online Only)
Stress, anxiety, anger, depression, trauma and drama...We have all encountered them! But, you don't have to face these common life difficulties alone. I am here to help. With extensive training and experience, I provide a compassionate, confidential, and non-judgmental environment that is safe for you. Though it is sometimes necessary to look at history, I believe that time and energy are better spent focusing on where you're going rather than where you've been. No, we cannot re-write your past but we can work together to write the future you want. Let's begin your next chapter!
Stress, anxiety, anger, depression, trauma and drama...We have all encountered them! But, you don't have to face these common life difficulties alone. I am here to help. With extensive training and experience, I provide a compassionate, confidential, and non-judgmental environment that is safe for you. Though it is sometimes necessary to look at history, I believe that time and energy are better spent focusing on where you're going rather than where you've been. No, we cannot re-write your past but we can work together to write the future you want. Let's begin your next chapter!
(254) 781-3321 View (254) 781-3321
Photo of Emily Ellis, Licensed Professional Counselor in Harker Heights, TX
Emily Ellis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMFT, RPT
Verified Verified
Harker Heights, TX 76548
Not accepting new clients
I specialize in working with children/adolescents with a variety of presenting symptoms. I understand that children must be counseled in the context of their family system and incorporate family therapy in my treatment processes. I have experience working with sexually and physically abused children, adolescents, and adults and those struggling with trauma reminders. I also work with individuals struggling with depression or behavior changes following a change in relationship dynamics such as divorce or military deployment. I offer sessions with and without my therapy dog-in-training, a sweet Bernedoodle named Sullivan.
I specialize in working with children/adolescents with a variety of presenting symptoms. I understand that children must be counseled in the context of their family system and incorporate family therapy in my treatment processes. I have experience working with sexually and physically abused children, adolescents, and adults and those struggling with trauma reminders. I also work with individuals struggling with depression or behavior changes following a change in relationship dynamics such as divorce or military deployment. I offer sessions with and without my therapy dog-in-training, a sweet Bernedoodle named Sullivan.
(254) 870-4363 View (254) 870-4363
Photo of Cynthia Bloore, Marriage & Family Therapist in Harker Heights, TX
Cynthia Bloore
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Harker Heights, TX 76548
Not accepting new clients
I provide psychotherapy and counseling for individuals struggling with anxiety and depression; substance use, abuse, and addiction; relationship difficulties; past trauma; and the effects of dysfunctional family relationships. If you are struggling in your personal or work relationships, if you are finding it hard to adjust to loss or trauma, or if you are finding it difficult to cope with the demands of everyday life, I can offer help in dealing with today's struggles--and hope for facing future challenges. I will work alongside you as you learn new ways to find success and happiness.
I provide psychotherapy and counseling for individuals struggling with anxiety and depression; substance use, abuse, and addiction; relationship difficulties; past trauma; and the effects of dysfunctional family relationships. If you are struggling in your personal or work relationships, if you are finding it hard to adjust to loss or trauma, or if you are finding it difficult to cope with the demands of everyday life, I can offer help in dealing with today's struggles--and hope for facing future challenges. I will work alongside you as you learn new ways to find success and happiness.
(805) 576-7551 View (805) 576-7551

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Debbie King Mabray, Marriage & Family Therapist in Harker Heights, TX
Debbie King Mabray
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
Killeen, TX 76542
I specialize in ptsd, depression, anxiety, bipolar, trauma resolution.
Nightmares? Flashbacks? Anger? Relationship conflicts? Let us help you out of this misery, showing you hope and happiness.We are located three miles from the Ft. Hood (TX) airport; over 80% of our clients are Soldiers. Many heroes are left with a debilitating "souveneir" of their honorable profession even after transitioning to a civilian lifestyle. Experiences stay with us, forever changing us, our relationships, our lives, our behaviors. Let us help you out of this misery, finding your happiness and light.. Our therapists are published authors, speakers, active in the community and ready to assist you however we may.
I specialize in ptsd, depression, anxiety, bipolar, trauma resolution.
Nightmares? Flashbacks? Anger? Relationship conflicts? Let us help you out of this misery, showing you hope and happiness.We are located three miles from the Ft. Hood (TX) airport; over 80% of our clients are Soldiers. Many heroes are left with a debilitating "souveneir" of their honorable profession even after transitioning to a civilian lifestyle. Experiences stay with us, forever changing us, our relationships, our lives, our behaviors. Let us help you out of this misery, finding your happiness and light.. Our therapists are published authors, speakers, active in the community and ready to assist you however we may.
(254) 217-8409 View (254) 217-8409
Photo of Catherine Klingler, Licensed Professional Counselor in Harker Heights, TX
Catherine Klingler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCDC, C-DBT, CCTP-I
Verified Verified
Killeen, TX 76542
I believe in the power of a strong therapeutic alliance and provide a stong client centered approach and meet clients where they are in life. I use a combination of CBT, DBT, and Trauma Informed approach that fosters healing, growth, and change from within.
I believe in the power of a strong therapeutic alliance and provide a stong client centered approach and meet clients where they are in life. I use a combination of CBT, DBT, and Trauma Informed approach that fosters healing, growth, and change from within.
(254) 252-3633 View (254) 252-3633
Photo of Angela Marie Jourdain, Licensed Professional Counselor in Harker Heights, TX
Angela Marie Jourdain
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Killeen, TX 76541
Our office believes that access to counseling should be easy and comfortable. I personally try my best to never turn away a client, schedule immediately, and work with any financial barriers. Although I work with a variety of treatment goals and treatment modalities, I am known for my work with children, trauma experienced populations, relationship counseling, addictions, military and advocacy for community health. When working with children, I always involve the parents and I attempt to assess in a variety of settings to assure I have the entire picture. Counseling should feel comfortable and safe.
Our office believes that access to counseling should be easy and comfortable. I personally try my best to never turn away a client, schedule immediately, and work with any financial barriers. Although I work with a variety of treatment goals and treatment modalities, I am known for my work with children, trauma experienced populations, relationship counseling, addictions, military and advocacy for community health. When working with children, I always involve the parents and I attempt to assess in a variety of settings to assure I have the entire picture. Counseling should feel comfortable and safe.
(254) 280-0793 View (254) 280-0793
Photo of Eleanor L. Brown, Licensed Professional Counselor in Harker Heights, TX
Eleanor L. Brown
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCTP, CGP
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Killeen, TX 76549  (Online Only)
Imagine feeling hurt, broken, and alone, as if your emotions control every aspect of your life. Fear and shame seem to consume you, making you question if anyone could truly love the real you. The pain of your past looms large, casting a shadow on your present. But there's hope for change, and you don't have to face it alone. Together, we'll uncover the roots of your pain, helping you find freedom from fear and shame, gain clarity, and learn the art of forgiveness when you are ready. Most importantly, you'll learn to love yourself and build a meaningful life, even amid life's challenges.
Imagine feeling hurt, broken, and alone, as if your emotions control every aspect of your life. Fear and shame seem to consume you, making you question if anyone could truly love the real you. The pain of your past looms large, casting a shadow on your present. But there's hope for change, and you don't have to face it alone. Together, we'll uncover the roots of your pain, helping you find freedom from fear and shame, gain clarity, and learn the art of forgiveness when you are ready. Most importantly, you'll learn to love yourself and build a meaningful life, even amid life's challenges.
(254) 272-0873 View (254) 272-0873
Photo of Tanya R Roper, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Harker Heights, TX
Tanya R Roper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCDC
Verified Verified
Killeen, TX 76540  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Each of us reach a point in life where we need to pause, breathe, and restart. For some of us that restart will happen on our own for others of us that restart will require someone a few steps ahead of us to reach back and give use a hand. I would be honored to explore the obstacles in your life, identify the changes you want and deserve while providing you the tools to create a life that you are proud to show the world.
Each of us reach a point in life where we need to pause, breathe, and restart. For some of us that restart will happen on our own for others of us that restart will require someone a few steps ahead of us to reach back and give use a hand. I would be honored to explore the obstacles in your life, identify the changes you want and deserve while providing you the tools to create a life that you are proud to show the world.
(254) 282-4452 View (254) 282-4452
Photo of Teresa L. Adcock, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Harker Heights, TX
Teresa L. Adcock
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Killeen, TX 76540
My family and I have lived in the Central Texas area for many years. I am familiar with the local area, and coming from a military family, I was raised all over the country. I earned my Masters of Science in Social Work from The University of Texas at Austin. I specialized in infant, child and adolescent mental health as well as clinical assessment. I have worked in many areas with varying populations such as: the Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Evaluation Services at Fort Hood, Scott and White Hospital, Dialysis Clinics, and Veteran's Administration Hospital.
My family and I have lived in the Central Texas area for many years. I am familiar with the local area, and coming from a military family, I was raised all over the country. I earned my Masters of Science in Social Work from The University of Texas at Austin. I specialized in infant, child and adolescent mental health as well as clinical assessment. I have worked in many areas with varying populations such as: the Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Evaluation Services at Fort Hood, Scott and White Hospital, Dialysis Clinics, and Veteran's Administration Hospital.
(254) 870-1538 View (254) 870-1538
The IOPs at Counseling Solutions
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
Killeen, TX 76542
Eating Disorders , Addiction Recovery (SUDS) , Trauma IOPs are available here. We are not your traditional treatment center. Our Intensive Outpatient Programs and Center is owned by therapists and run by therapists. Our priority is the client and their wellness. Located on ten acres outside of Killeen, Texas, we use an integrative approach with numerous evidence-based therapies designed specifically for the individual's success. The incoming IOP client needs a higher level of care than someone attending therapy weekly. We offer 12-15 hours a week of intense treatments while the client lives at home. The family system is included.
Eating Disorders , Addiction Recovery (SUDS) , Trauma IOPs are available here. We are not your traditional treatment center. Our Intensive Outpatient Programs and Center is owned by therapists and run by therapists. Our priority is the client and their wellness. Located on ten acres outside of Killeen, Texas, we use an integrative approach with numerous evidence-based therapies designed specifically for the individual's success. The incoming IOP client needs a higher level of care than someone attending therapy weekly. We offer 12-15 hours a week of intense treatments while the client lives at home. The family system is included.
(254) 279-0714 View (254) 279-0714
Photo of Dejai Nelson-Parten, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Harker Heights, TX
Dejai Nelson-Parten
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Killeen, TX 76541
I strive to be authentic and human in session with my clients to promote a safe environment. After working 5 years in the field of ABA therapy I took on counseling as I saw a greater need for parents and adults in dealing with an Autism diagnosis. I heavily focus on experiential processing in session with all clients to engage with the deeper emotions. I also strive to work with the communities I have been apart of such as military, LGBTQ+, and mixed race background. I look forward to meeting you.
I strive to be authentic and human in session with my clients to promote a safe environment. After working 5 years in the field of ABA therapy I took on counseling as I saw a greater need for parents and adults in dealing with an Autism diagnosis. I heavily focus on experiential processing in session with all clients to engage with the deeper emotions. I also strive to work with the communities I have been apart of such as military, LGBTQ+, and mixed race background. I look forward to meeting you.
(254) 332-3680 View (254) 332-3680
Photo of Terri Oldham, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Harker Heights, TX
Terri Oldham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Killeen, TX 76542
I have had the honor and privilege of working with individuals and families for more than 15 years and really love what I do! My areas of specialty include anxiety, depression, mood disorders, grief, loss, and trauma, as well as women's issues. I recognize that the client is the expert on his or her life, and brings strengths to the therapy process. I position myself to be walk alongside clients and assist in facilitating areas of change that have been identified in therapy--all the while building on identified strengths.
I have had the honor and privilege of working with individuals and families for more than 15 years and really love what I do! My areas of specialty include anxiety, depression, mood disorders, grief, loss, and trauma, as well as women's issues. I recognize that the client is the expert on his or her life, and brings strengths to the therapy process. I position myself to be walk alongside clients and assist in facilitating areas of change that have been identified in therapy--all the while building on identified strengths.
(254) 239-0965 View (254) 239-0965
Photo of Alexandrea Long, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Harker Heights, TX
Alexandrea Long
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LCSW, CCTP, EMDR
Verified Verified
Killeen, TX 76549  (Online Only)
As a therapist, I strive to break the barriers of traditional therapy by going beyond the mind and helping facilitate healing for the body as well. Research has confirmed that the body is in fact what keeps the score. I am an out-of-the box therapist that operates from a holistic healing standpoint, who believes that everyone can and deserves to heal. I work with adults of all ages to help uncover the true source of their suffering. I operate by going to the root of the problem and helping discover unidentified traumas, griefs, and unproductive belief systems that may be holding one back from living the life that they truly desire.
As a therapist, I strive to break the barriers of traditional therapy by going beyond the mind and helping facilitate healing for the body as well. Research has confirmed that the body is in fact what keeps the score. I am an out-of-the box therapist that operates from a holistic healing standpoint, who believes that everyone can and deserves to heal. I work with adults of all ages to help uncover the true source of their suffering. I operate by going to the root of the problem and helping discover unidentified traumas, griefs, and unproductive belief systems that may be holding one back from living the life that they truly desire.
(254) 275-6042 View (254) 275-6042
Photo of Sally Louise Ray, Counselor in Harker Heights, TX
Sally Louise Ray
Counselor, JD, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Killeen, TX 76549
Not accepting new clients
I have 17 years specialized training & experience in body-centered psychotherapies, working with trauma, post traumatic stress & moral injury. Neuroscience confirms trauma resides in the body; we know the body's wisdom guides the release of trauma perfectly with adequate safety, effective "witnessing," & mindful inner attention. Distressing thoughts, beliefs & social inhibition are the primary barriers to the body's ability to release trauma & re-wire the neurological system in a transformational process that decades of "talk therapy" could never accomplish. These powerful, highly effective interventions assure the debilitating effects of trauma are no longer something people must "live with."
I have 17 years specialized training & experience in body-centered psychotherapies, working with trauma, post traumatic stress & moral injury. Neuroscience confirms trauma resides in the body; we know the body's wisdom guides the release of trauma perfectly with adequate safety, effective "witnessing," & mindful inner attention. Distressing thoughts, beliefs & social inhibition are the primary barriers to the body's ability to release trauma & re-wire the neurological system in a transformational process that decades of "talk therapy" could never accomplish. These powerful, highly effective interventions assure the debilitating effects of trauma are no longer something people must "live with."
(512) 900-6190 View (512) 900-6190
Photo of Mandy Rutherford, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Harker Heights, TX
Mandy Rutherford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, REAT, CCTP, REACE
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Killeen, TX 76540
Not accepting new clients
NOT ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS AT THIS TIME: WAIT LIST AVAILABLE. If you're feeling the alone-in-a-crowd thing...like walking around in a fog? Stomach aches for no reason? Mind won't stop racing...maybe it's been hard to fall asleep for awhile - even harder to stay asleep (feeling refreshed is a distant memory). Maybe you've lost your patience and can't remember the last time you had it. Maybe the stuff you usually count on to re-charge is a big drain instead...and causing conflicts. If this sounds like you or someone you care about, Please consider reaching out. Find hope and reclaim yourself by tapping into your creative side.
NOT ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS AT THIS TIME: WAIT LIST AVAILABLE. If you're feeling the alone-in-a-crowd thing...like walking around in a fog? Stomach aches for no reason? Mind won't stop racing...maybe it's been hard to fall asleep for awhile - even harder to stay asleep (feeling refreshed is a distant memory). Maybe you've lost your patience and can't remember the last time you had it. Maybe the stuff you usually count on to re-charge is a big drain instead...and causing conflicts. If this sounds like you or someone you care about, Please consider reaching out. Find hope and reclaim yourself by tapping into your creative side.
(512) 861-8500 View (512) 861-8500
Photo of Monica Serrano Thomas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Harker Heights, TX
Monica Serrano Thomas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Killeen, TX 76541  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
As a therapist, my personal battles have granted me an intimacy with the struggles my clients face. I understand the reluctance to ask for help, especially in multicultural communities where mental health is often not taken seriously. Generational trauma and cultural expectations have woven intricate barriers around seeking assistance. It's a struggle I'm familiar with, and that familiarity is the cornerstone of the safe haven I strive to create for my clients. Consider working with me if you recognize that therapy can be a powerful tool for personal growth and healing, and you are ready to create positive changes in your life.
As a therapist, my personal battles have granted me an intimacy with the struggles my clients face. I understand the reluctance to ask for help, especially in multicultural communities where mental health is often not taken seriously. Generational trauma and cultural expectations have woven intricate barriers around seeking assistance. It's a struggle I'm familiar with, and that familiarity is the cornerstone of the safe haven I strive to create for my clients. Consider working with me if you recognize that therapy can be a powerful tool for personal growth and healing, and you are ready to create positive changes in your life.
(737) 637-5030 View (737) 637-5030

Online Therapists

Photo of Kimberly McGoey, Psychologist in Harker Heights, TX
Kimberly McGoey
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78703  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating patients with long-term mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and trauma.
As a psychodynamic and attachment-oriented psychotherapist, I seek to help my patients better understand themselves. I know this journey isn't easy and I am here to walk with you down the path to knowing, understanding, and growing. I do this by meeting my patients where they are and mutually agreeing upon goals and what you want the therapeutic process to look like for you. Whether you are looking for help for a specific issue such as depression, anxiety, loss, or seek to explore yourself; I will join with you and help alleviate your pain in order to help you become more aware, integrated, and live a more content life.
I specialize in treating patients with long-term mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and trauma.
As a psychodynamic and attachment-oriented psychotherapist, I seek to help my patients better understand themselves. I know this journey isn't easy and I am here to walk with you down the path to knowing, understanding, and growing. I do this by meeting my patients where they are and mutually agreeing upon goals and what you want the therapeutic process to look like for you. Whether you are looking for help for a specific issue such as depression, anxiety, loss, or seek to explore yourself; I will join with you and help alleviate your pain in order to help you become more aware, integrated, and live a more content life.
(512) 714-3403 View (512) 714-3403
Photo of Joann Martillotti-Cartwright, Licensed Professional Counselor in Harker Heights, TX
Joann Martillotti-Cartwright
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cedar Park, TX 78613
My specialties are: family struggles around recovery/addiction/mental health issues; substance abuse/addictions; anger management, healthy relationships, and challenging personalities/relationship behaviors; and trauma, depression/bipolar disorder, and anxiety.
My clients’ success has made space for you! Move from stuck to empowered! If you want to change - your relationships, your relationship to alcohol/drugs/food/sex/social media, your anxiety or depression, the way you react under stress - then call me today. You can have the life you desire and deserve. I want to help you develop new tools and resources to be who you want to be, get the relationships you want, and reach exceptional goals. You don't have to go it alone. Let's work together to break through! Now offering several therapy packages - Enhancing Sobriety, Transforming Relationships, and Breaking Free of Trauma. Call today!
My specialties are: family struggles around recovery/addiction/mental health issues; substance abuse/addictions; anger management, healthy relationships, and challenging personalities/relationship behaviors; and trauma, depression/bipolar disorder, and anxiety.
My clients’ success has made space for you! Move from stuck to empowered! If you want to change - your relationships, your relationship to alcohol/drugs/food/sex/social media, your anxiety or depression, the way you react under stress - then call me today. You can have the life you desire and deserve. I want to help you develop new tools and resources to be who you want to be, get the relationships you want, and reach exceptional goals. You don't have to go it alone. Let's work together to break through! Now offering several therapy packages - Enhancing Sobriety, Transforming Relationships, and Breaking Free of Trauma. Call today!
(512) 355-7320 View (512) 355-7320
Photo of Audry Steele, Licensed Professional Counselor in Harker Heights, TX
Audry Steele
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78704
I specialize in a broad spectrum of psychological issues including anxiety, stress, depression, relationship complexities, codependency, narcissism, parenting, grief, post-partum challenges, self-esteem, bipolar symptoms, anger, and trauma.
Accepting new clients – Welcome, I've practiced psychotherapy for over 20 years and invite you to explore more about my approach here. If you find that you're interested in working together, please send an email. Perhaps you're reaching out because life's stressors have become overwhelming, relationships are challenging, or symptoms are too intense to handle alone. I specialize in depth-oriented therapy for adults facing personal, professional, or family challenges. I also support those who feel generally resilient and successful but are navigating significant stress.
I specialize in a broad spectrum of psychological issues including anxiety, stress, depression, relationship complexities, codependency, narcissism, parenting, grief, post-partum challenges, self-esteem, bipolar symptoms, anger, and trauma.
Accepting new clients – Welcome, I've practiced psychotherapy for over 20 years and invite you to explore more about my approach here. If you find that you're interested in working together, please send an email. Perhaps you're reaching out because life's stressors have become overwhelming, relationships are challenging, or symptoms are too intense to handle alone. I specialize in depth-oriented therapy for adults facing personal, professional, or family challenges. I also support those who feel generally resilient and successful but are navigating significant stress.
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See more therapy options for Harker Heights

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.