Photo of Scott M Pasnik, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hillsboro, TX
Scott M Pasnik
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hillsboro, TX 76645
I want to help my clients become comfortable navigating the challenges that happen in life. I believe humans are incredibly resilient; sometimes we just need a little help along the way. I believe healing occurs in a safe relationship and you're more likely to accept being challenged and take new risks when you feel supported and encouraged. The majority of my clients are men who need someone to listen. My office is judgment free.
I want to help my clients become comfortable navigating the challenges that happen in life. I believe humans are incredibly resilient; sometimes we just need a little help along the way. I believe healing occurs in a safe relationship and you're more likely to accept being challenged and take new risks when you feel supported and encouraged. The majority of my clients are men who need someone to listen. My office is judgment free.
(254) 277-2759 View (254) 277-2759

Online Therapists

Photo of Don Hays PhD, LPC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Hillsboro, 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 Landry Therapy Group PLLC - Arlington, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hillsboro, TX
Landry Therapy Group PLLC - Arlington
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, TX 76012  (Online Only)
We offer treatment services for marital/couple, anxiety, depression, PTSD, self-injury, suicidal ideation/attempt, bipolar disorder, lesbian, gay, bi-sexual, transgender issues, & general life stresses & stressors.
*TAKING NEW CLIENTS* Our goal is to form a bond of trust and commitment with our clients. With the proper support and guidance in their lives, we believe people have an inherent ability to persevere through struggles with which they are confronted. Lisa works with adults, individuals, couples, and LGBTQ+. Our other 8 therapists work with children, adolescents, adults, and families. We help clients with anxiety, depression, self harm/suicidal ideation, trauma, addiction, issues resulting from trauma, and life's daily struggles. We would like to help you foster a healthier style of living to ensure your future well-being.
We offer treatment services for marital/couple, anxiety, depression, PTSD, self-injury, suicidal ideation/attempt, bipolar disorder, lesbian, gay, bi-sexual, transgender issues, & general life stresses & stressors.
*TAKING NEW CLIENTS* Our goal is to form a bond of trust and commitment with our clients. With the proper support and guidance in their lives, we believe people have an inherent ability to persevere through struggles with which they are confronted. Lisa works with adults, individuals, couples, and LGBTQ+. Our other 8 therapists work with children, adolescents, adults, and families. We help clients with anxiety, depression, self harm/suicidal ideation, trauma, addiction, issues resulting from trauma, and life's daily struggles. We would like to help you foster a healthier style of living to ensure your future well-being.
(214) 234-9157 View (214) 234-9157
Photo of Andrew Eenigenburg, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hillsboro, TX
Andrew Eenigenburg
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Flower Mound, TX 75028
His clinical experience includes preengagement counseling, premarital counseling, marriage counseling, family counseling, and working with individuals diagnosed with depression, anxiety, anger, bipolar disorder, self-harm behaviors, addictions, ADHD, identity confusion, trauma, grief and loss, guilt, shame and personality disorders. Andrew served as an Adolescent Therapist at the Excel Center of Lewisville from 2015 to 2018. From 2008 to 2015, Andrew served as an adult Mental Health Case Manager and Hospital Liaison for Denton County MHMR. He and his wife Missy are covenant members of The Village Church Denton.
His clinical experience includes preengagement counseling, premarital counseling, marriage counseling, family counseling, and working with individuals diagnosed with depression, anxiety, anger, bipolar disorder, self-harm behaviors, addictions, ADHD, identity confusion, trauma, grief and loss, guilt, shame and personality disorders. Andrew served as an Adolescent Therapist at the Excel Center of Lewisville from 2015 to 2018. From 2008 to 2015, Andrew served as an adult Mental Health Case Manager and Hospital Liaison for Denton County MHMR. He and his wife Missy are covenant members of The Village Church Denton.
(469) 635-2200 View (469) 635-2200
Photo of Yu-Fen Lin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hillsboro, TX
Yu-Fen Lin
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75208
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (TX# 62590), Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor, counseling educator, and a pastor. I specialize in individual counseling, couple counseling, group counseling, and supervision in counseling. I work well with clients who are challenged by low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, bipolar, trauma, and relationship problems. I also provide bilingual counseling services to Asians, Asian Americans, and international students who speak Mandarin and Taiwanese. For LPC-Interns who are seeking for supervision under a LPC-Supervisior, I am the one.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (TX# 62590), Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor, counseling educator, and a pastor. I specialize in individual counseling, couple counseling, group counseling, and supervision in counseling. I work well with clients who are challenged by low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, bipolar, trauma, and relationship problems. I also provide bilingual counseling services to Asians, Asian Americans, and international students who speak Mandarin and Taiwanese. For LPC-Interns who are seeking for supervision under a LPC-Supervisior, I am the one.
(972) 774-6426 x805 View (972) 774-6426 x805
Photo of Sherry Fancher, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hillsboro, TX
Sherry Fancher
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75243
I specialize in working with adults and families struggling with a variety of life stressors including grief, depression, anxiety related disorders, sexual abuse, trauma, relationship issues, bipolar disorder, life transitions and self-esteem.
I tailor my treatment approach to the individual, couple or family that I work with. Each person is different and has different needs in the therapeutic setting. By using a variety of evidence-based approaches, I aim to help each person recognize and utilize their strengths to more effectively cope and eventually be content with where they are in life. I am experienced in working with clients across many diverse backgrounds of religion, ethnicities, and diagnoses. I'm also confident in navigating through one's past to help them be comfortable in the present.
I specialize in working with adults and families struggling with a variety of life stressors including grief, depression, anxiety related disorders, sexual abuse, trauma, relationship issues, bipolar disorder, life transitions and self-esteem.
I tailor my treatment approach to the individual, couple or family that I work with. Each person is different and has different needs in the therapeutic setting. By using a variety of evidence-based approaches, I aim to help each person recognize and utilize their strengths to more effectively cope and eventually be content with where they are in life. I am experienced in working with clients across many diverse backgrounds of religion, ethnicities, and diagnoses. I'm also confident in navigating through one's past to help them be comfortable in the present.
(214) 427-8844 View (214) 427-8844
Photo of Landry Therapy Group - Rockwall, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hillsboro, TX
Landry Therapy Group - Rockwall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rockwall, TX 75032
We offer treatment services for marital/couple, anxiety, depression, PTSD, self-injury, suicidal ideation/attempt, bipolar disorder, lesbian, gay, bi-sexual, transgender issues, & general life stresses & stressors.
*TAKING NEW CLIENTS* Our goal as therapists is to form a bond of trust and commitment with our clients. With the proper support and guidance in their lives, we believe people have an inherent ability to persevere through any struggle with which they are confronted. Jerianne specializes in working with adults, individuals, couples, families, depression self harm/suicidal ideation, and LGBTQ. We help clients cope with life's daily struggles and/or issues resulting from trauma and conflict and to cultivate a healthier style of living to ensure future well-being.
We offer treatment services for marital/couple, anxiety, depression, PTSD, self-injury, suicidal ideation/attempt, bipolar disorder, lesbian, gay, bi-sexual, transgender issues, & general life stresses & stressors.
*TAKING NEW CLIENTS* Our goal as therapists is to form a bond of trust and commitment with our clients. With the proper support and guidance in their lives, we believe people have an inherent ability to persevere through any struggle with which they are confronted. Jerianne specializes in working with adults, individuals, couples, families, depression self harm/suicidal ideation, and LGBTQ. We help clients cope with life's daily struggles and/or issues resulting from trauma and conflict and to cultivate a healthier style of living to ensure future well-being.
(469) 423-8596 View (469) 423-8596
Photo of James Bernard, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hillsboro, TX
James Bernard
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Burleson, TX 76028
Sometimes considering a change can be overwhelming. I can walk beside you, teaching ways to overcome feelings of anxiety and confusion while working on your relationship with yourself and others. Decreasing anxiety, depression, overcoming habits, and learning to manage diagnoses such as borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, and difficult medical diagnoses: HIV, cancer, and more. I treat people with dignity and respect in a collaborative, therapeutic relationship. I also believe a sense of humor is essential to emotional health, happiness. As we work on challenges, we may also share a laugh or two along the way.
Sometimes considering a change can be overwhelming. I can walk beside you, teaching ways to overcome feelings of anxiety and confusion while working on your relationship with yourself and others. Decreasing anxiety, depression, overcoming habits, and learning to manage diagnoses such as borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, and difficult medical diagnoses: HIV, cancer, and more. I treat people with dignity and respect in a collaborative, therapeutic relationship. I also believe a sense of humor is essential to emotional health, happiness. As we work on challenges, we may also share a laugh or two along the way.
(817) 754-6507 View (817) 754-6507
Photo of Holly Fedro, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hillsboro, TX
Holly Fedro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75230
Holly and her staff of licensed therapists have extensive experience treating childhood disorders like ADHD/LD, Autism Spectrum, unipolar and bipolar depression, aggression, anxiety, oppositional behavior, attachment disorders, and social skill problems. We help parents develop positive behavior plans to reduce behavior difficulties at home and school. Marital and other family relationship issues are also addressed. We use a short term, cognitive behavioral approach to provide practical advise and proven strategies to help resolve problems as quickly and efficiently as possible.
Holly and her staff of licensed therapists have extensive experience treating childhood disorders like ADHD/LD, Autism Spectrum, unipolar and bipolar depression, aggression, anxiety, oppositional behavior, attachment disorders, and social skill problems. We help parents develop positive behavior plans to reduce behavior difficulties at home and school. Marital and other family relationship issues are also addressed. We use a short term, cognitive behavioral approach to provide practical advise and proven strategies to help resolve problems as quickly and efficiently as possible.
(972) 528-9164 View (972) 528-9164
Photo of Hati Munetsi, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hillsboro, TX
Hati Munetsi
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR
Verified Verified
Garland, TX 75043
I am an Art Psychotherapist/LPC who services clients from ages 5 and up, presenting with a variety of diagnoses or needs. My experience has been working with eating disorder latency and teen patients, trauma patients, gender identity, and exposure to sexual abuse and bipolar disorder clients.
I am an Art Psychotherapist/LPC who services clients from ages 5 and up, presenting with a variety of diagnoses or needs. My experience has been working with eating disorder latency and teen patients, trauma patients, gender identity, and exposure to sexual abuse and bipolar disorder clients.
(214) 730-5634 View (214) 730-5634
Photo of Lifeworks Counseling Center, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hillsboro, 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 Christine Sommer Robinson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hillsboro, TX
Christine Sommer Robinson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, CRC, LPC
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76110  (Online Only)
I work with a variety of individuals who may be experiencing symptoms related to, but not limited to, the following diagnoses: depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, bipolar disorder, chemical dependency and co-occurring disorders.
Hello! My name is Sommer Robinson and I am a LPC currently practicing in Fort Worth, Texas. We all live busy lives with various commitments that often limits access to mental health services that are typically offered during regular business hours. I offer evening appointments only and accept several insurance plans.
I work with a variety of individuals who may be experiencing symptoms related to, but not limited to, the following diagnoses: depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, bipolar disorder, chemical dependency and co-occurring disorders.
Hello! My name is Sommer Robinson and I am a LPC currently practicing in Fort Worth, Texas. We all live busy lives with various commitments that often limits access to mental health services that are typically offered during regular business hours. I offer evening appointments only and accept several insurance plans.
(682) 217-1788 View (682) 217-1788
Photo of Rachel Wyatt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hillsboro, TX
Rachel Wyatt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Richardson, TX 75081
Waitlist for new clients
I work with LGBTQ+ (+kink), anxiety, BPD, depression, PMDD/PCOS, bipolar disorders, PTSD, trauma (includes: emotional, religious, etc).
Hello, looking for a place where you can feel safe to be vulnerable, gain insight and understanding, as well as work towards your desired goal(s)? I understand that we all have unique lives, experiences, and circumstances that can affect the way we think, behave, believe, and express ourselves. Being unique, having your own story to tell, and learning to navigate life is a part of our journey. Therapy can help with navigating these life changes as we grow, adapt, revert, thrive, and survive.
I work with LGBTQ+ (+kink), anxiety, BPD, depression, PMDD/PCOS, bipolar disorders, PTSD, trauma (includes: emotional, religious, etc).
Hello, looking for a place where you can feel safe to be vulnerable, gain insight and understanding, as well as work towards your desired goal(s)? I understand that we all have unique lives, experiences, and circumstances that can affect the way we think, behave, believe, and express ourselves. Being unique, having your own story to tell, and learning to navigate life is a part of our journey. Therapy can help with navigating these life changes as we grow, adapt, revert, thrive, and survive.
(214) 206-4105 View (214) 206-4105
Photo of Rachel Gracia, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hillsboro, TX
Rachel Gracia
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76107
Now Providing EMDR! Do you need an evening appointment? Do you need counseling for yourself or your teen? Are you a college student struggling with the transition to adulthood? I provide a warm, relaxed and soothing environment for the treatment of depression, anxiety, trauma, self- esteem, stress management, grief, bipolar and the loss of a relationship. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as my primary focus as well as EMDR Therapy for Trauma.
Now Providing EMDR! Do you need an evening appointment? Do you need counseling for yourself or your teen? Are you a college student struggling with the transition to adulthood? I provide a warm, relaxed and soothing environment for the treatment of depression, anxiety, trauma, self- esteem, stress management, grief, bipolar and the loss of a relationship. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as my primary focus as well as EMDR Therapy for Trauma.
(817) 993-4167 View (817) 993-4167
Photo of Yas Farrokh, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hillsboro, 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 Dr. Reed J. Robinson, Psychologist in Hillsboro, TX
Dr. Reed J. Robinson
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75219
Robinson has extensive expertise in the treatment of major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, anxiety, PTSD, and substance use disorders.
Dr. Robinson is board certified in Clinical Psychology and has been practicing psychology and providing evidence-based therapies for over 15 years. Prior to opening his private practice, he had a distinguished career as a clinician and clinical leader at the Dallas VA (where he served as Assistant Chief of Psychology) and then UT Southwestern Medical Center (where we was Director of Psychology Services and continues to serve as an Associate Professor in the Dept of Psychiatry.
Robinson has extensive expertise in the treatment of major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, anxiety, PTSD, and substance use disorders.
Dr. Robinson is board certified in Clinical Psychology and has been practicing psychology and providing evidence-based therapies for over 15 years. Prior to opening his private practice, he had a distinguished career as a clinician and clinical leader at the Dallas VA (where he served as Assistant Chief of Psychology) and then UT Southwestern Medical Center (where we was Director of Psychology Services and continues to serve as an Associate Professor in the Dept of Psychiatry.
(469) 373-7886 View (469) 373-7886
Photo of Rob Novick, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hillsboro, TX
Rob Novick, LCSW-S
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, MSSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
Additionally, I help those diagnosed with a mental illness, like Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective Disorder, and Bipolar.
Starting therapy for the first time or finding a new therapist can be stressful and anxiety-provoking. My goal is to help you feel comfortable from our first conversation. I believe everyone has the capability and strength to face whatever life has to offer, even when it seems overwhelming. By providing a safe, warm, caring environment, my clients can freely express themselves without judgment. I actively participate in my client's treatment by offering reflections, suggestions, ideas, and homework. My main therapeutic approach is cognitive behavioral, along with mindfulness, and solution-focused therapy.
Additionally, I help those diagnosed with a mental illness, like Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective Disorder, and Bipolar.
Starting therapy for the first time or finding a new therapist can be stressful and anxiety-provoking. My goal is to help you feel comfortable from our first conversation. I believe everyone has the capability and strength to face whatever life has to offer, even when it seems overwhelming. By providing a safe, warm, caring environment, my clients can freely express themselves without judgment. I actively participate in my client's treatment by offering reflections, suggestions, ideas, and homework. My main therapeutic approach is cognitive behavioral, along with mindfulness, and solution-focused therapy.
(214) 740-3929 View (214) 740-3929
Photo of Achievebalance.org Dr. Kate Walker, Marriage & Family Therapist in Hillsboro, TX
Achievebalance.org Dr. Kate Walker
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lampasas, TX 76550  (Online Only)
I specialize in couple and marriage issues like communication, infidelity, shift work schedules common with the oil industry, and addiction. Additionally I treat adult individual issues like depression, anxiety, and bipolar; as well as family issues like life transitions, launching older teens and adult children, addiction, and ex-pat transitions. I am solution-focused and goal oriented so I can help you get in quickly, get tools, and get back to life. Click achievebalance.org and schedule a free 10 minute phone consultation.
I specialize in couple and marriage issues like communication, infidelity, shift work schedules common with the oil industry, and addiction. Additionally I treat adult individual issues like depression, anxiety, and bipolar; as well as family issues like life transitions, launching older teens and adult children, addiction, and ex-pat transitions. I am solution-focused and goal oriented so I can help you get in quickly, get tools, and get back to life. Click achievebalance.org and schedule a free 10 minute phone consultation.
(936) 483-9073 View (936) 483-9073
Photo of Marci'a Blake, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hillsboro, TX
Marci'a Blake
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with nearly 15 years of experience helping people navigate the difficult seasons of life. I place a high value on rapport building and strongly believe that each client is an expert on themselves. I have a wide range of skills helping adolescents and adults with issues such as depression, anxiety, bipolar, grief and loss, borderline personality disorder, trauma, school related issues, adjustment and substance use disorders.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with nearly 15 years of experience helping people navigate the difficult seasons of life. I place a high value on rapport building and strongly believe that each client is an expert on themselves. I have a wide range of skills helping adolescents and adults with issues such as depression, anxiety, bipolar, grief and loss, borderline personality disorder, trauma, school related issues, adjustment and substance use disorders.
(469) 529-6022 View (469) 529-6022
Photo of Dr. Megan McMillan Rowling, Psychologist in Hillsboro, 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

See more therapy options for Hillsboro

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.