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Online Therapists

Photo of Myrtle Hawkins, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hico, TX
Myrtle Hawkins
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LPHA
Verified Verified
Mesquite, TX 75149  (Online Only)
I have extensive volunteer/training working in local Inpatient hospitals with all populations dealing with Bipolar, Schizophrenia and Borderline Personality as the program manager dealing with the acute status to outpatient services.
Are you sad and confused? I can help you understand the thoughts and feelings that influence behaviors. You can get help through counseling. It is generally short-term and focused on helping you deal with a very specific problem; Virtual only (M,W,Thur 10 or 11), M-F (appointments after 5 pm CST), Saturdays (9-2p) "virtual appointments only". I am experienced in treating a wide range of disorders including: phobias, addictions, depression, and anxiety, couples issues, divorce issues and trauma.
I have extensive volunteer/training working in local Inpatient hospitals with all populations dealing with Bipolar, Schizophrenia and Borderline Personality as the program manager dealing with the acute status to outpatient services.
Are you sad and confused? I can help you understand the thoughts and feelings that influence behaviors. You can get help through counseling. It is generally short-term and focused on helping you deal with a very specific problem; Virtual only (M,W,Thur 10 or 11), M-F (appointments after 5 pm CST), Saturdays (9-2p) "virtual appointments only". I am experienced in treating a wide range of disorders including: phobias, addictions, depression, and anxiety, couples issues, divorce issues and trauma.
(972) 573-9733 View (972) 573-9733
Photo of Mylie Greenbach, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hico, TX
Mylie Greenbach
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, PhD
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76110
I am a licensed professional counselor and a Ph.D. candidate with clinical experience starting in 2005. I assist individuals, couples, and families in resolving issues such as ADHD, Anger Management, Anxiety, Coping Skills, Behavioral Issues, Aging, Bipolar Disorder, Borderline Personality, Career Counseling, Codependency, Depression, Domestic Abuse/Violence, Life Coaching, Family Conflict, Emotional Disturbance, Life Transitions, Job Stress, Grief, and many more. I use a mix of Couples ACT, EFT, EMDR, DBT, CBT, MBCT, and many more. I believe in building on my client's strengths to attain the growth and changes they want to achieve.
I am a licensed professional counselor and a Ph.D. candidate with clinical experience starting in 2005. I assist individuals, couples, and families in resolving issues such as ADHD, Anger Management, Anxiety, Coping Skills, Behavioral Issues, Aging, Bipolar Disorder, Borderline Personality, Career Counseling, Codependency, Depression, Domestic Abuse/Violence, Life Coaching, Family Conflict, Emotional Disturbance, Life Transitions, Job Stress, Grief, and many more. I use a mix of Couples ACT, EFT, EMDR, DBT, CBT, MBCT, and many more. I believe in building on my client's strengths to attain the growth and changes they want to achieve.
(281) 688-4982 View (281) 688-4982
Photo of Lisa Wallace, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hico, TX
Lisa Wallace
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCDC
Verified Verified
Georgetown, TX 78628  (Online Only)
I have experience working with a wide variety of populations, specializing in helping adults who struggle with depression, anxiety, bipolar, ADHD, or substance use.
Have you ever looked at your reflection and wondered who you are? Do you ever feel lost or wonder where you are headed? Confession- I have. I realized later in life that my calling was to become a therapist. Long before returning to college, I received on-the-job training through my own experiences as a mother, wife, friend, and as an individual struggling with depression and anxiety. These experiences helped prepare me for my role as a therapist. Just like my clients, I looked for a therapist to talk to, one who would listen and be able to understand where I was coming from.
I have experience working with a wide variety of populations, specializing in helping adults who struggle with depression, anxiety, bipolar, ADHD, or substance use.
Have you ever looked at your reflection and wondered who you are? Do you ever feel lost or wonder where you are headed? Confession- I have. I realized later in life that my calling was to become a therapist. Long before returning to college, I received on-the-job training through my own experiences as a mother, wife, friend, and as an individual struggling with depression and anxiety. These experiences helped prepare me for my role as a therapist. Just like my clients, I looked for a therapist to talk to, one who would listen and be able to understand where I was coming from.
(737) 214-4935 View (737) 214-4935
Photo of Elite Style Counseling , Licensed Professional Counselor in Hico, TX
Elite Style Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
Mansfield, TX 76063
I am passionate, motivated, and interested in happy others. I am ex-military, an ex-dual military, and a dependent wife with children. I have experience with helping with military issues, depression, parenting issues, marriage counseling, individual sessions, anxiety, grief, trauma, drug abuse, PTSD, bipolar, borderline personality, and other mental health disorders. I am doing Zoom and telecounseling at the time. This means I can serve all of Texas via telecounseling not just Mansfield. https://www.amazon.com/s?k=barbara+smith-Jordan&crid=YTT9FORJBQRC&sprefix=barbara+smith-jordan%2Caps%2C306&ref=nb_sb_noss
I am passionate, motivated, and interested in happy others. I am ex-military, an ex-dual military, and a dependent wife with children. I have experience with helping with military issues, depression, parenting issues, marriage counseling, individual sessions, anxiety, grief, trauma, drug abuse, PTSD, bipolar, borderline personality, and other mental health disorders. I am doing Zoom and telecounseling at the time. This means I can serve all of Texas via telecounseling not just Mansfield. https://www.amazon.com/s?k=barbara+smith-Jordan&crid=YTT9FORJBQRC&sprefix=barbara+smith-jordan%2Caps%2C306&ref=nb_sb_noss
(682) 243-8210 View (682) 243-8210
Photo of Yas Farrokh, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hico, TX
Yas Farrokh
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Carrollton, TX 75010
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and counselor supervisor with over 14 years of clinical experience. I work with adult individuals, adolescents, children, couples and families, using a variety of therapeutic techniques. I have vast experience working with issues related to trauma, depression, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, anger management, mood disorders, anxiety, employment and work place problems, and grief.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and counselor supervisor with over 14 years of clinical experience. I work with adult individuals, adolescents, children, couples and families, using a variety of therapeutic techniques. I have vast experience working with issues related to trauma, depression, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, anger management, mood disorders, anxiety, employment and work place problems, and grief.
(469) 294-8291 View (469) 294-8291
Photo of Katherine Fields, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hico, TX
Katherine Fields
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76110  (Online Only)
She also has clinical experience working with adolescents and adults who struggle with relationships, depression, anxiety, addiction and more acute psychiatric disorders such as Bipolar Disorder.
Katherine Fields is a licensed clinical therapist and school counselor in the state of Texas. She is an army brat and former navy spouse which have afforded her the opportunity to experience a wide range of cultures, including South, Central America, Italy and Japan. Recently, Katherine traversed to Mexico for eight months to learn more about its rich culture. Living in Texas, she currently accepts new clients; whether student, professional or retired. She uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help adults both young and seasoned to make sense of the world around them.
She also has clinical experience working with adolescents and adults who struggle with relationships, depression, anxiety, addiction and more acute psychiatric disorders such as Bipolar Disorder.
Katherine Fields is a licensed clinical therapist and school counselor in the state of Texas. She is an army brat and former navy spouse which have afforded her the opportunity to experience a wide range of cultures, including South, Central America, Italy and Japan. Recently, Katherine traversed to Mexico for eight months to learn more about its rich culture. Living in Texas, she currently accepts new clients; whether student, professional or retired. She uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help adults both young and seasoned to make sense of the world around them.
(817) 631-6974 View (817) 631-6974
Photo of Krista Woods, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hico, 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 Floyd Russell Crites Jr., Counselor in Hico, TX
Floyd Russell Crites Jr.
Counselor, LPC, LMFT, LSSP, NBCCH, CPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Coppell, TX 75019
I also test for other psychological issues such as depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder.
If you're looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation, need testing to help determine how to help you or your child handle life, school or work more effectively, or if you want to improve your life situation or relationship I look forward to working with you. I am a solution focused therapist who enjoys working with clients as they journey through hard times. This is especially true in regards to marriage or relationship issues. Helping save or better a relationship is one of the greatest benefits I get from doing therapy
I also test for other psychological issues such as depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder.
If you're looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation, need testing to help determine how to help you or your child handle life, school or work more effectively, or if you want to improve your life situation or relationship I look forward to working with you. I am a solution focused therapist who enjoys working with clients as they journey through hard times. This is especially true in regards to marriage or relationship issues. Helping save or better a relationship is one of the greatest benefits I get from doing therapy
(972) 295-9866 View (972) 295-9866
Photo of Christian Hudson Wallis, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hico, TX
Christian Hudson Wallis
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76104  (Online Only)
Christian Hudson-Wallis is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Texas with over 5 years of professional experience assisting clients of all ages to cope with the effects of anxiety, depression, anger, bipolar disorder, trauma, and PTSD. Christian earned her Master's degree in Family Psychology from Hardin-Simmons University. Christian is skilled in using cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), humanistic techniques, Rogerian methods, existential therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), the Gottman Method, and acceptance and commitment (ACT) approaches.
Christian Hudson-Wallis is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Texas with over 5 years of professional experience assisting clients of all ages to cope with the effects of anxiety, depression, anger, bipolar disorder, trauma, and PTSD. Christian earned her Master's degree in Family Psychology from Hardin-Simmons University. Christian is skilled in using cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), humanistic techniques, Rogerian methods, existential therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), the Gottman Method, and acceptance and commitment (ACT) approaches.
(817) 330-6831 View (817) 330-6831
Photo of Dr. Megan McMillan Rowling, Psychologist in Hico, TX
Dr. Megan McMillan Rowling
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75206
Dr. Rowling has extensive experience in successfully treating the following: • Issues relating to celebrity, power and success. • Attachment issues. • Chronic interpersonal and relational trauma. • Issues relating to extreme stress. • Work, creativity and career issues. • Relational dynamics and conflicts. Personality disorders including narcissism, dependent and obsessive compulsive personality disorders. • Substance abuse including alcohol abuse, prescription medication dependence, and sexual compulsivity. • Mood disorders including depression and bipolar disorder. •
Dr. Rowling has extensive experience in successfully treating the following: • Issues relating to celebrity, power and success. • Attachment issues. • Chronic interpersonal and relational trauma. • Issues relating to extreme stress. • Work, creativity and career issues. • Relational dynamics and conflicts. Personality disorders including narcissism, dependent and obsessive compulsive personality disorders. • Substance abuse including alcohol abuse, prescription medication dependence, and sexual compulsivity. • Mood disorders including depression and bipolar disorder. •
(872) 231-3318 View (872) 231-3318
Photo of Mindy Mauldin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hico, TX
Mindy Mauldin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Richland Hills, TX 76180
I have experience working with a wide array of clients. I commonly treat clients with depression, anxiety, and ADHD. I also have quite a bit of experience with clients who have lost someone dear to them, and are trying to find a way though that grief. In addition to those areas, I also treat a number of other issues not yet mentioned, such as bipolar disorder, OCD, problems in interpersonal relationships, stress management, career-related concerns, trauma, and more.
I have experience working with a wide array of clients. I commonly treat clients with depression, anxiety, and ADHD. I also have quite a bit of experience with clients who have lost someone dear to them, and are trying to find a way though that grief. In addition to those areas, I also treat a number of other issues not yet mentioned, such as bipolar disorder, OCD, problems in interpersonal relationships, stress management, career-related concerns, trauma, and more.
(817) 383-8726 View (817) 383-8726
Photo of Kay Fontenot, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hico, TX
Kay Fontenot
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, LCDC, BSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waxahachie, TX 75165
My professional goal is to provide connection, healing, and insight during each of our encounters, With a passion for attachment and relational models, I have training, expertise and experience in providing counseling and psychotherapy for the following types of concerns/struggles: Women's Concerns, Emerging Adults, Relationship Strain, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Substance Use, Personality Traits and/or Disorders, Divorce, Infidelity, Boundaries, Grief and Loss, Career Concerns, Assertiveness Training, & Life Adjustments. I also offer individual, group and family intensives for connection, insight and deeper healing.
My professional goal is to provide connection, healing, and insight during each of our encounters, With a passion for attachment and relational models, I have training, expertise and experience in providing counseling and psychotherapy for the following types of concerns/struggles: Women's Concerns, Emerging Adults, Relationship Strain, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Substance Use, Personality Traits and/or Disorders, Divorce, Infidelity, Boundaries, Grief and Loss, Career Concerns, Assertiveness Training, & Life Adjustments. I also offer individual, group and family intensives for connection, insight and deeper healing.
(469) 405-2856 View (469) 405-2856
Photo of Edward G Furst, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hico, TX
Edward G Furst
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Worth, TX 76126  (Online Only)
Ed treats anxiety, PTSD, depression, bipolar, troubled relationships, Narcissistic Personality Disorder and abuse, couples, parent/child conflicts, addiction, grief, Bipolar, Life Adjustments, ADD, OCD, self-esteem, and dreams.
Ed's diverse background provides a rich blend of experience to his clients. He is dual licensed as a Professional Counselor and Marriage & Family Therapist. He is an expert with youth, families, and individuals, and a Clinical Supervisor/Mentor for inpatient care. Edward has counseled clients for 32 years as a Therapist, Sports Psychology Consultant (coaches/athletes), and Life Balance/Career Coach. He gladly sees people from all faiths and walks of life and provides wisdom for anyone who seeks it: individuals, families, youth, couples, parents, pastors, professionals, athletes, coaches, and performing artists.
Ed treats anxiety, PTSD, depression, bipolar, troubled relationships, Narcissistic Personality Disorder and abuse, couples, parent/child conflicts, addiction, grief, Bipolar, Life Adjustments, ADD, OCD, self-esteem, and dreams.
Ed's diverse background provides a rich blend of experience to his clients. He is dual licensed as a Professional Counselor and Marriage & Family Therapist. He is an expert with youth, families, and individuals, and a Clinical Supervisor/Mentor for inpatient care. Edward has counseled clients for 32 years as a Therapist, Sports Psychology Consultant (coaches/athletes), and Life Balance/Career Coach. He gladly sees people from all faiths and walks of life and provides wisdom for anyone who seeks it: individuals, families, youth, couples, parents, pastors, professionals, athletes, coaches, and performing artists.
(248) 988-9294 View (248) 988-9294
Photo of Don Hays PhD, LPC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Hico, TX
Don Hays PhD, LPC
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75230
I am a licensed counselor and marriage and family therapist with 34 years experience and am equally skilled in dealing with individuals and couples. The problems I deal with most commonly are anxiety, depression, panic attacks, bipolar disorder, individual growth, midlife issues, relationship problems, anger management, conflict negotiation skills, divorce adjustment, blended families and parenting issues. I provide Christian counseling if requested. When working with couples I use John Gottman's research based model for marriage counseling coupled with key concepts of Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)
I am a licensed counselor and marriage and family therapist with 34 years experience and am equally skilled in dealing with individuals and couples. The problems I deal with most commonly are anxiety, depression, panic attacks, bipolar disorder, individual growth, midlife issues, relationship problems, anger management, conflict negotiation skills, divorce adjustment, blended families and parenting issues. I provide Christian counseling if requested. When working with couples I use John Gottman's research based model for marriage counseling coupled with key concepts of Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)
(469) 253-7227 View (469) 253-7227
Photo of Jolie Nicole Miller, LPC Associate in Hico, TX
Jolie Nicole Miller
LPC Associate, LPC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Worth, TX 76109
Hello! My name is Jolie and I specialize in helping children, teens, individuals and couples work through issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, divorce, and infertility. I have worked with children, teens, and adults for many years that have struggled with issues such as ADHD, spectrum disorders, bipolar, ODD, OCD, and behavior issues. Additionally, I have personal experience with infertility, IVF, and surrogacy. There is a special place in my heart for helping people who are also going through these challenges.
Hello! My name is Jolie and I specialize in helping children, teens, individuals and couples work through issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, divorce, and infertility. I have worked with children, teens, and adults for many years that have struggled with issues such as ADHD, spectrum disorders, bipolar, ODD, OCD, and behavior issues. Additionally, I have personal experience with infertility, IVF, and surrogacy. There is a special place in my heart for helping people who are also going through these challenges.
(682) 327-1067 View (682) 327-1067
Photo of Urban Counseling Clique, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hico, 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 Gayle Davis, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hico, TX
Gayle Davis, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Irving, TX 75062
Specialties include depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, PTSD, LGBT, and relationship issues.
Having over 30 years of experience as a psychotherapist, I have found that everyone has within themselves the internal resources for self-healing. My goal as a therapist is to assist you in accessing and further developing those resources. I will help you work through your immediate problems and concerns as well as assist you in addressing past experiences that may be influencing your current emotional state, behaviors and relationships. I work with adults 20 years and older.
Specialties include depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, PTSD, LGBT, and relationship issues.
Having over 30 years of experience as a psychotherapist, I have found that everyone has within themselves the internal resources for self-healing. My goal as a therapist is to assist you in accessing and further developing those resources. I will help you work through your immediate problems and concerns as well as assist you in addressing past experiences that may be influencing your current emotional state, behaviors and relationships. I work with adults 20 years and older.
(214) 307-8781 View (214) 307-8781
Photo of Abby Jo Hawkins, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hico, TX
Abby Jo Hawkins
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCDC, MS BS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75205
Please check out my quick and easy insurance verification via website(takes less than 2 min) Focus on Trauma, Grief, and Addictions (of all kinds) alcohol, benzodiazepines, opiates, sex, shopping and eating issues. Abby works with Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder and Personality Disorders on a consistent basis. When working with a client they first establishes goals the client identifies as being their primary focus and then explains options such as plans for different types of therapy and steps to the goal from personalized plans the therapist and client create together for stair step process to ensure client moves forward.
Please check out my quick and easy insurance verification via website(takes less than 2 min) Focus on Trauma, Grief, and Addictions (of all kinds) alcohol, benzodiazepines, opiates, sex, shopping and eating issues. Abby works with Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder and Personality Disorders on a consistent basis. When working with a client they first establishes goals the client identifies as being their primary focus and then explains options such as plans for different types of therapy and steps to the goal from personalized plans the therapist and client create together for stair step process to ensure client moves forward.
(254) 876-4220 View (254) 876-4220
Photo of Paul Teska, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hico, TX
Paul Teska
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75254  (Online Only)
Throughout my career, I have probably worked with every single situation in the counseling field. I have worked inpatient, outpatient, and telepatient. I have worked in prisons, jails, psychiatric hospitals, IDD facilities, community MHMR, and community counseling centers. My specialties include drug and alcohol addiction, trauma, major depression, bipolar, schizophrenia, anxiety, stress, marital problems, anger management, and people with LGBTQ issues.
Throughout my career, I have probably worked with every single situation in the counseling field. I have worked inpatient, outpatient, and telepatient. I have worked in prisons, jails, psychiatric hospitals, IDD facilities, community MHMR, and community counseling centers. My specialties include drug and alcohol addiction, trauma, major depression, bipolar, schizophrenia, anxiety, stress, marital problems, anger management, and people with LGBTQ issues.
(936) 243-3569 View (936) 243-3569
Photo of Erika Rios, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hico, TX
Erika Rios
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
Arlington, TX 76006  (Online Only)
I've worked with people who are experiencing depression, anxiety, loss, addictions, parenting challenges, co-parenting transitions, trauma, relationship challenges, bipolar disorder and the list goes on.
Tired of being tired, feeling helpless, hopeless, empty? Life is feeling overwhelming or unmanageable? I understand and I’m here to say it doesn’t have to be that way. This is a difficult step, accepting that something needs to change. Together we will navigate through all the things that are forming a barrier to your ability to feel whole.
I've worked with people who are experiencing depression, anxiety, loss, addictions, parenting challenges, co-parenting transitions, trauma, relationship challenges, bipolar disorder and the list goes on.
Tired of being tired, feeling helpless, hopeless, empty? Life is feeling overwhelming or unmanageable? I understand and I’m here to say it doesn’t have to be that way. This is a difficult step, accepting that something needs to change. Together we will navigate through all the things that are forming a barrier to your ability to feel whole.
(361) 314-2319 View (361) 314-2319

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Nearby Bipolar Disorder Therapists Searches for Hico

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Bipolar Disorder Therapists

What is the most successful approach to treating bipolar disorder?

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

What happens in therapy for bipolar disorder?

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

What kinds of problems does therapy help with?

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

What is the goal of therapy for bipolar disorder?

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