Photo of MC Counseling Service, Licensed Professional Counselor in Huntsville, TX
MC Counseling Service
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Huntsville, TX 77340
In life, we all face struggles and challenges. I provide therapy for children, adolescents, adults and geriatrics to assist clients through those difficult times. I use a combination of Cognitive Behavioral and Person Centered Therapy. My goal is to provide a safe and warm environment, where my client can feel comfortable to explore the past, gain personal insight and make positive changes when necessary. When working with my clients, developing a strong working relationship is most important. I have worked with mental health clients for the past 16 years
In life, we all face struggles and challenges. I provide therapy for children, adolescents, adults and geriatrics to assist clients through those difficult times. I use a combination of Cognitive Behavioral and Person Centered Therapy. My goal is to provide a safe and warm environment, where my client can feel comfortable to explore the past, gain personal insight and make positive changes when necessary. When working with my clients, developing a strong working relationship is most important. I have worked with mental health clients for the past 16 years
(936) 909-6245 View (936) 909-6245
Photo of Jd McDonald Jr., Counselor in Huntsville, TX
Jd McDonald Jr.
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Huntsville, TX 77340  (Online Only)
People are constantly moving towards life or moving away from it. My goal is to help individuals gain the skills to recognize these shifts but there is no cookie-cutter approach to therapy. By maintaining respectful curiosity for their unique story clients' values are clarified and their realities expanded. Someone I really admire once said, "you don't know what you think until you've said it." However which way you may be feeling "stuck" in life I invite you to come figure it out with me. Call me today to do a 15 minute free interview today so that we can make sure we are a good fit to schedule an appointment: +1-281-369-8984
People are constantly moving towards life or moving away from it. My goal is to help individuals gain the skills to recognize these shifts but there is no cookie-cutter approach to therapy. By maintaining respectful curiosity for their unique story clients' values are clarified and their realities expanded. Someone I really admire once said, "you don't know what you think until you've said it." However which way you may be feeling "stuck" in life I invite you to come figure it out with me. Call me today to do a 15 minute free interview today so that we can make sure we are a good fit to schedule an appointment: +1-281-369-8984
(281) 369-8984 View (281) 369-8984
Photo of Cherisse Guerrero, Licensed Professional Counselor in Huntsville, TX
Cherisse Guerrero
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntsville, TX 77340  (Online Only)
I have 16 years of professional experience helping clients cope with addictions, trauma and abuse, depression & anger management, as well as those with criminal justice involvement. I believe that you are the expert of you and have many strengths to assist in overcoming challenges. I primarily use CBT, Motivational Interviewing, & Client Centered approaches.
I have 16 years of professional experience helping clients cope with addictions, trauma and abuse, depression & anger management, as well as those with criminal justice involvement. I believe that you are the expert of you and have many strengths to assist in overcoming challenges. I primarily use CBT, Motivational Interviewing, & Client Centered approaches.
(936) 226-3681 View (936) 226-3681
Photo of Kaitlin May, Licensed Professional Counselor in Huntsville, TX
Kaitlin May
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
Huntsville, TX 77340
Helping and serving others has always been a passion of mine. I believe that therapy begins when trust is built between the client and the counselor. My goal is to create a safe space for my clients to come and feel heard, seen, and equipped to handle whatever life may throw at them. Whether you're facing a specific challenge or seeking personal growth and understanding, I am here to provide a supportive, non-judgmental space for your journey towards healing.
Helping and serving others has always been a passion of mine. I believe that therapy begins when trust is built between the client and the counselor. My goal is to create a safe space for my clients to come and feel heard, seen, and equipped to handle whatever life may throw at them. Whether you're facing a specific challenge or seeking personal growth and understanding, I am here to provide a supportive, non-judgmental space for your journey towards healing.
(936) 262-5133 View (936) 262-5133
Photo of CourageousCounseling.org / Brandon L. Morgan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Huntsville, TX
CourageousCounseling.org / Brandon L. Morgan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Huntsville, TX 77320
Do you fume when someone cuts you off in traffic? Does your blood pressure rocket when your child refuses to cooperate? Anger is a normal and even healthy emotion — but it's important to deal with it in a positive way. Uncontrolled anger can take a toll on both your health and your relationships. Ready to get your anger under control?
Do you fume when someone cuts you off in traffic? Does your blood pressure rocket when your child refuses to cooperate? Anger is a normal and even healthy emotion — but it's important to deal with it in a positive way. Uncontrolled anger can take a toll on both your health and your relationships. Ready to get your anger under control?
(210) 960-8065 View (210) 960-8065
Photo of Capstone Connect, PLLC- Counseling & Trauma , LPC Associate in Huntsville, TX
Capstone Connect, PLLC- Counseling & Trauma
LPC Associate, MEd, CSC, EMDR, Trained
Verified Verified
Huntsville, TX 77320
Looking for a Counselor who Cares?! Well, I AM that caring counselor. Are you struggling to manage the stresses or changes in work/school, marriage, family? Are you at a place in life where you seem out of balance? Are you stuck in an unwanted pattern? Are you tired of your past repeating itself? Well, I am here to meet you where you are to help you get to where YOU want to BE! As a professional helper, I have served as an educator and certified school counselor for over 17 years. I have educated and counseled individuals: children/adolescents/adults and families with a dedicated heart with the goal to help everyone be their best.
Looking for a Counselor who Cares?! Well, I AM that caring counselor. Are you struggling to manage the stresses or changes in work/school, marriage, family? Are you at a place in life where you seem out of balance? Are you stuck in an unwanted pattern? Are you tired of your past repeating itself? Well, I am here to meet you where you are to help you get to where YOU want to BE! As a professional helper, I have served as an educator and certified school counselor for over 17 years. I have educated and counseled individuals: children/adolescents/adults and families with a dedicated heart with the goal to help everyone be their best.
(936) 226-0194 View (936) 226-0194
Photo of Finding Peace Counseling Center in Huntsville, TX
Finding Peace Counseling Center
MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Huntsville, TX 77320
Do you feel like your life has been difficult to manage lately? Are you having family or relationship issues and feel like you need someone to help you and your loved ones understand one another? Are you concerned about recent changes you've seen in your child or teenager? No matter what challenges you may currently be facing, we strive to make sure our clients feel comfortable and supported on their journey to bettering themselves and their families and look forward to helping you Find Peace.
Do you feel like your life has been difficult to manage lately? Are you having family or relationship issues and feel like you need someone to help you and your loved ones understand one another? Are you concerned about recent changes you've seen in your child or teenager? No matter what challenges you may currently be facing, we strive to make sure our clients feel comfortable and supported on their journey to bettering themselves and their families and look forward to helping you Find Peace.
(936) 220-2143 View (936) 220-2143
Photo of Jamie Manning, Licensed Professional Counselor in Huntsville, TX
Jamie Manning
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CAGCS
Verified Verified
Huntsville, TX 77320
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in working with adults ages 18 to 65+ in addressing the following: grief, trauma, emotion regulation, and adjustment issues related to life changes and stressors across the lifespan. I welcome adults of all changes for both individual and couple's therapy, I utilize primarily cognitive-behavioral, trauma focused, and existential approaches, but will work to align my therapeutic approach with your specific needs and values. Since the therapeutic relationship is the strongest predictor of success in therapy, I will provide a warm, supportive, and collaborative space for you to explore and grow.
I specialize in working with adults ages 18 to 65+ in addressing the following: grief, trauma, emotion regulation, and adjustment issues related to life changes and stressors across the lifespan. I welcome adults of all changes for both individual and couple's therapy, I utilize primarily cognitive-behavioral, trauma focused, and existential approaches, but will work to align my therapeutic approach with your specific needs and values. Since the therapeutic relationship is the strongest predictor of success in therapy, I will provide a warm, supportive, and collaborative space for you to explore and grow.
View
Photo of Rubina Pina, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Huntsville, TX
Rubina Pina
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MEd, LPC-A, LCDC-i
Verified Verified
Huntsville, TX 77340  (Online Only)
You’re frustrated… You’re tired… You tend to lash out at those closest to you. Now you feel guilty… and more tired… It’s a cycle. One that I want to help you break. Changes in mood can be influenced by so many things. One way to learn more about what could be contributing is talking to a therapist (maybe me?... ) I enjoy working with those who struggle with anger and irritability. It's normal to feel those things, but I think so many people try to convince themselves they shouldn't so they push the feelings away... which makes it worse in the long run.
You’re frustrated… You’re tired… You tend to lash out at those closest to you. Now you feel guilty… and more tired… It’s a cycle. One that I want to help you break. Changes in mood can be influenced by so many things. One way to learn more about what could be contributing is talking to a therapist (maybe me?... ) I enjoy working with those who struggle with anger and irritability. It's normal to feel those things, but I think so many people try to convince themselves they shouldn't so they push the feelings away... which makes it worse in the long run.
(832) 737-8959 View (832) 737-8959

Online Therapists

Photo of Vasavi Kanneganti, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Huntsville, TX
Vasavi Kanneganti
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77080  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Whether or not this is your first time working with a therapist - I'm so glad you're here. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and I enjoy working with children, adolescents, adults, and elderly clients. My professional experience has primarily included treating clients struggling with Depression, ADHD, Anxiety, Trauma, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective Disorder, Suicidal Ideation, Family/Relationship Issues, and Self-Esteem Issues.
Whether or not this is your first time working with a therapist - I'm so glad you're here. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and I enjoy working with children, adolescents, adults, and elderly clients. My professional experience has primarily included treating clients struggling with Depression, ADHD, Anxiety, Trauma, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective Disorder, Suicidal Ideation, Family/Relationship Issues, and Self-Esteem Issues.
(832) 915-3678 View (832) 915-3678
Photo of Sheela Pandya Trivedi, Licensed Professional Counselor in Huntsville, TX
Sheela Pandya Trivedi
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tomball, TX 77375
Trauma, depression, bipolar disorder, other psychological disorders in all ages.
As a therapist, my goal is to work with clients to develop goals and objectives which will help them to achieve the stability through warm, accepting, non-judgmental, goal oriented therapeutic sessions. The methods used are very eclectic and inclusive considering the client’s comfort and orientation. Methods incorporated (but not limited to) are, CBT, DBT, behavioral therapy, family therapy, solution-based brief therapy, multimodal therapy, relationship counseling.
Trauma, depression, bipolar disorder, other psychological disorders in all ages.
As a therapist, my goal is to work with clients to develop goals and objectives which will help them to achieve the stability through warm, accepting, non-judgmental, goal oriented therapeutic sessions. The methods used are very eclectic and inclusive considering the client’s comfort and orientation. Methods incorporated (but not limited to) are, CBT, DBT, behavioral therapy, family therapy, solution-based brief therapy, multimodal therapy, relationship counseling.
(832) 761-3522 View (832) 761-3522
Photo of Taofeeq Awesu, Counselor in Huntsville, TX
Taofeeq Awesu
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77002  (Online Only)
I counsel and develop treatment plan for individuals, couples and group for the treatment of various mental health disorders like Major Depressive Disorder, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Stress and Anger management, PTSD, Grief counseling and host of others.
I'm an empathic licensed professional mental health counselor with proven ability to work independently and collaboratively to at risk diverse population. My unique and diverse backgrounds couples with my multicultural experience helping in crisis intervention, suicide risk evaluation, diagnostic evaluation, psychometric testing, case documentation and biopsychosocial assessment. I work with my population using proven and evidenced based approaches. I am trauma-informed cognitive behavioral therapist with an advanced integrated therapies tailored to meet each client strengths and abilities.
I counsel and develop treatment plan for individuals, couples and group for the treatment of various mental health disorders like Major Depressive Disorder, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Stress and Anger management, PTSD, Grief counseling and host of others.
I'm an empathic licensed professional mental health counselor with proven ability to work independently and collaboratively to at risk diverse population. My unique and diverse backgrounds couples with my multicultural experience helping in crisis intervention, suicide risk evaluation, diagnostic evaluation, psychometric testing, case documentation and biopsychosocial assessment. I work with my population using proven and evidenced based approaches. I am trauma-informed cognitive behavioral therapist with an advanced integrated therapies tailored to meet each client strengths and abilities.
(210) 981-4273 View (210) 981-4273
Photo of Tim Brown, Licensed Professional Counselor in Huntsville, TX
Tim Brown
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Conroe, TX 77304  (Online Only)
I specialize in helping people with anxiety, depression, bipolar, panic attacks, stress, and obsessive thoughts.
Are you struggling with anxiety? Do bothersome thoughts keep running through your mind? Is it hard to shake your worries and fears? Are they interfering with your work or relationships? Let’s find a better way.
I specialize in helping people with anxiety, depression, bipolar, panic attacks, stress, and obsessive thoughts.
Are you struggling with anxiety? Do bothersome thoughts keep running through your mind? Is it hard to shake your worries and fears? Are they interfering with your work or relationships? Let’s find a better way.
(936) 227-4244 View (936) 227-4244
Photo of Beth Birdwell M.A., LPC-A, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Huntsville, TX
Beth Birdwell M.A., LPC-A
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPC-A
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77006
Over my 49 years, my life has been touched by a variety of mental health issues with friends & family: addiction, Borderline Personality Disorder, depression, psychosis, homelessness, suicide, & Bipolar Disorder.
I will challenge you. I am curious. I will be straightforward. I truly believe everyone is doing the best they can, with what they have, at the time. That's where we'll start. I have found that the most helpful therapeutic experiences involve a mix of straightforwardness, empathy and empowerment, and I strive to do this with my clients. Areas of interest and experience for me include, but are not limited to, trauma stemming from: family of origin, relationships with people who have personality disorder, and grief (particularly after suicide loss); addiction, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and spiritual growth.
Over my 49 years, my life has been touched by a variety of mental health issues with friends & family: addiction, Borderline Personality Disorder, depression, psychosis, homelessness, suicide, & Bipolar Disorder.
I will challenge you. I am curious. I will be straightforward. I truly believe everyone is doing the best they can, with what they have, at the time. That's where we'll start. I have found that the most helpful therapeutic experiences involve a mix of straightforwardness, empathy and empowerment, and I strive to do this with my clients. Areas of interest and experience for me include, but are not limited to, trauma stemming from: family of origin, relationships with people who have personality disorder, and grief (particularly after suicide loss); addiction, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and spiritual growth.
(737) 510-2874 View (737) 510-2874
Photo of Jamie Taylor, Licensed Professional Counselor in Huntsville, TX
Jamie Taylor
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Rosenberg, TX 77469  (Online Only)
I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults with various diagnoses including Eating Disorders, Anxiety, ADHD, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Depression, Bipolar, Psychosis, Borderline Personality Disorder, Schizoaffective Disorder, as well as general stressors and everyday anxieties.
I started my career in mental health as a mental health technician for PEAK Behavioral Hospital in 2006. I then became a Qualified Mental Health Professional/Case Manager for Texana Center for 8 years in 2007. I then became a behavioral health counselor at Eating Recovery Center-Houston with clients struggling with various eating disorders, followed by becoming a therapist for two different PHP/IOP programs, one for adults and the other for adolescents. Finally, I have experience working for a private practice and now my own private practice with clients who struggle with stress, domestic violence, parenting, family conflict, etc.
I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults with various diagnoses including Eating Disorders, Anxiety, ADHD, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Depression, Bipolar, Psychosis, Borderline Personality Disorder, Schizoaffective Disorder, as well as general stressors and everyday anxieties.
I started my career in mental health as a mental health technician for PEAK Behavioral Hospital in 2006. I then became a Qualified Mental Health Professional/Case Manager for Texana Center for 8 years in 2007. I then became a behavioral health counselor at Eating Recovery Center-Houston with clients struggling with various eating disorders, followed by becoming a therapist for two different PHP/IOP programs, one for adults and the other for adolescents. Finally, I have experience working for a private practice and now my own private practice with clients who struggle with stress, domestic violence, parenting, family conflict, etc.
(915) 221-2597 View (915) 221-2597
Photo of Kristina Walters, Licensed Professional Counselor in Huntsville, TX
Kristina Walters
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bryan, TX 77802
I also have experience with ADHD, OCD, depression, behavioral issues, suicidality, self-harm, bipolar disorder, self-esteem, grief, and anxiety.
As we go through life, we can experience difficulties and challenges. Reaching out to someone for help can be difficult so I commend you for doing so. As a therapist, I am here to listen and provide a safe space in which to share those concerns. Every person is unique so I take time to develop a strong therapeutic relationship based on trust while tailoring the therapy to each person. -Kristina Walters, MA, LPC
I also have experience with ADHD, OCD, depression, behavioral issues, suicidality, self-harm, bipolar disorder, self-esteem, grief, and anxiety.
As we go through life, we can experience difficulties and challenges. Reaching out to someone for help can be difficult so I commend you for doing so. As a therapist, I am here to listen and provide a safe space in which to share those concerns. Every person is unique so I take time to develop a strong therapeutic relationship based on trust while tailoring the therapy to each person. -Kristina Walters, MA, LPC
(979) 227-3121 View (979) 227-3121
Photo of Gina Marie Baiamonte, Licensed Professional Counselor in Huntsville, TX
Gina Marie Baiamonte
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77063
Recognizing you need help is the first step towards healing. Asking for help is the next step that takes courage, strength and vulnerability. I welcome you to opening the door and stepping through the threshold of change and new insight. Together we will uncover long-standing behavior patterns or negative thinking that may be preventing you from experiencing a more satisfying life. I work from a holistic perspective with adults, individuals and couples, specializing in Trauma, PTSD, Panic, Depression, Anxiety, Sexual Abuse, Grief, BiPolar, ADHD, Life-Purpose, Codependency, Business Entrepreneurial Counseling and Creative Population.
Recognizing you need help is the first step towards healing. Asking for help is the next step that takes courage, strength and vulnerability. I welcome you to opening the door and stepping through the threshold of change and new insight. Together we will uncover long-standing behavior patterns or negative thinking that may be preventing you from experiencing a more satisfying life. I work from a holistic perspective with adults, individuals and couples, specializing in Trauma, PTSD, Panic, Depression, Anxiety, Sexual Abuse, Grief, BiPolar, ADHD, Life-Purpose, Codependency, Business Entrepreneurial Counseling and Creative Population.
(832) 266-0979 View (832) 266-0979
Photo of Krisztina Petho-Robertson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Huntsville, TX
Krisztina Petho-Robertson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, CIMHP, ICCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77098
Now accepting new clients! My primary therapeutic goal is to approach each individual in a unique way. While helping clients develop healthy coping strategies and achieve personal growth and positive change, I provide a safe and non-judgmental environment. As a therapist, I am passionate about helping clients in coping with depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, stress, relationship difficulties, divorce, parenting, grief and loss, abuse and neglect, domestic violence, addictions, bipolar disorders, and more. I see pre-teens, adolescents, families, and adults struggling with behavioral, emotional, or relational issues.
Now accepting new clients! My primary therapeutic goal is to approach each individual in a unique way. While helping clients develop healthy coping strategies and achieve personal growth and positive change, I provide a safe and non-judgmental environment. As a therapist, I am passionate about helping clients in coping with depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, stress, relationship difficulties, divorce, parenting, grief and loss, abuse and neglect, domestic violence, addictions, bipolar disorders, and more. I see pre-teens, adolescents, families, and adults struggling with behavioral, emotional, or relational issues.
(832) 981-4682 View (832) 981-4682
Photo of Brandi Large, Licensed Professional Counselor in Huntsville, TX
Brandi Large
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
The Woodlands, TX 77389
Brandi is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Western Illinois University and her Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology from Sam Houston State University. Her diverse experience includes therapy with children, adolescents, and adults. Her clinical experience with clients includes anxiety, depression, post traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, and survivors of sexual assault. She provides a safe, relaxed, and nonjudgmental space for you to heal emotionally and learn coping skills.
Brandi is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Western Illinois University and her Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology from Sam Houston State University. Her diverse experience includes therapy with children, adolescents, and adults. Her clinical experience with clients includes anxiety, depression, post traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, and survivors of sexual assault. She provides a safe, relaxed, and nonjudgmental space for you to heal emotionally and learn coping skills.
(281) 984-4924 View (281) 984-4924
Photo of Lorena Abitante, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Huntsville, TX
Lorena Abitante
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Kingwood, TX 77339
I'm experienced working with stress management, Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, anxiety, feelings of suicide, psychotic disorders/psychosis, family issues, trauma, and child abuse/neglect, including sexual abuse.
Allow me to assist you in the change process by both of us looking at your thinking &how it affects you. I feel passionate about working with those who have experienced trauma, loss, abuse/neglect, as well as those who are living with mental illness, including struggling teens & ones with onset of mental illness. I believe in empowering people to process loss, reach goals, develop self-esteem, and improve functioning in a supportive, safe environment.I have gained experience working in both an in-patient and an out-patient psychiatric hospital setting, the Children's Protective Services system, group private practice, and a prison.
I'm experienced working with stress management, Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, anxiety, feelings of suicide, psychotic disorders/psychosis, family issues, trauma, and child abuse/neglect, including sexual abuse.
Allow me to assist you in the change process by both of us looking at your thinking &how it affects you. I feel passionate about working with those who have experienced trauma, loss, abuse/neglect, as well as those who are living with mental illness, including struggling teens & ones with onset of mental illness. I believe in empowering people to process loss, reach goals, develop self-esteem, and improve functioning in a supportive, safe environment.I have gained experience working in both an in-patient and an out-patient psychiatric hospital setting, the Children's Protective Services system, group private practice, and a prison.
(281) 888-0134 View (281) 888-0134
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.