Photo of Rica Puazo, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hutto, TX
Rica Puazo
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Hutto, TX 78634  (Online Only)
Rica Puazo is a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Registered Art Therapist (LPC, RAT) who holds more than 4 years of experience working in residential treatment facilities and inpatient acute care with children, adolescents, young adults, college students, young professionals, adults, and geriatrics. She has experience working with individuals diagnosed with ADHD, bipolar disorder and mood disorders, schizophrenia, conduct disorders, depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, substance abuse, intellectual disability, autism spectrum disorder, and neurocognitive disorders such as dementia and Alzheimer’s.
Rica Puazo is a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Registered Art Therapist (LPC, RAT) who holds more than 4 years of experience working in residential treatment facilities and inpatient acute care with children, adolescents, young adults, college students, young professionals, adults, and geriatrics. She has experience working with individuals diagnosed with ADHD, bipolar disorder and mood disorders, schizophrenia, conduct disorders, depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, substance abuse, intellectual disability, autism spectrum disorder, and neurocognitive disorders such as dementia and Alzheimer’s.
(339) 218-3090 View (339) 218-3090
Photo of Bitini Ryan Pannell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hutto, TX
Bitini Ryan Pannell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hutto, TX 78634  (Online Only)
Bitini Pannell is a licensed Professional Counselor based in Texas with a passion for helping people overcome their traumas, depression, anxiety stress and mental health challenges. With over four years of experience in the field, Bitini is well-equipped to provide compassionate and effective care to those in need. After completing her education, Bitini began working as a counselor in a community mental health center, where she provided therapy to individuals with a wide range of mental health concerns.
Bitini Pannell is a licensed Professional Counselor based in Texas with a passion for helping people overcome their traumas, depression, anxiety stress and mental health challenges. With over four years of experience in the field, Bitini is well-equipped to provide compassionate and effective care to those in need. After completing her education, Bitini began working as a counselor in a community mental health center, where she provided therapy to individuals with a wide range of mental health concerns.
(512) 675-6448 View (512) 675-6448
Photo of Chelsea Sells, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hutto, TX
Chelsea Sells
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hutto, TX 78634
I wear a lot of hats in life- I'm a bonus mom, partner, daughter, friend, colleague, woman. I'm a human. I know what it's like to feel shame, anger, sadness, fear, and pain. I also know happiness, love, safety, gratitude, and hope. I've had a lot of experiences- some beautiful, some not. I share this because it's important to know that while I've not been in your shoes, I've walked in shoes of my own. I know that we are all just doing the best we can at the time. My goal is facilitate a safe environment where people can explore who they are and where they've been, gain insight, and learn skills to live a happier and healthier life.
I wear a lot of hats in life- I'm a bonus mom, partner, daughter, friend, colleague, woman. I'm a human. I know what it's like to feel shame, anger, sadness, fear, and pain. I also know happiness, love, safety, gratitude, and hope. I've had a lot of experiences- some beautiful, some not. I share this because it's important to know that while I've not been in your shoes, I've walked in shoes of my own. I know that we are all just doing the best we can at the time. My goal is facilitate a safe environment where people can explore who they are and where they've been, gain insight, and learn skills to live a happier and healthier life.
(512) 402-3037 View (512) 402-3037
Photo of Heather Adcock-Eden, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hutto, TX
Heather Adcock-Eden
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hutto, TX 78634  (Online Only)
Heather Adcock-Eden, LPC, is a compassionate and dedicated therapist specializing in a variety of evidence-based modalities aimed at helping clients navigate through life's challenges. With a focus on Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT), Existential therapy, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, and integrative psychotherapy, Heather offers a comprehensive approach to mental health and well-being.
Heather Adcock-Eden, LPC, is a compassionate and dedicated therapist specializing in a variety of evidence-based modalities aimed at helping clients navigate through life's challenges. With a focus on Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT), Existential therapy, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, and integrative psychotherapy, Heather offers a comprehensive approach to mental health and well-being.
(512) 957-0205 View (512) 957-0205
Photo of Grace McClellan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hutto, TX
Grace McClellan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Hutto, TX 78634
As a graduate of UT in Social Work I developed passion for helping others find balance and well-being, regain lost joy and navigate difficult changes. As a Licensed Profession Counselor having earned my Master in Clinical Mental Health, I gained a deeper understanding of how to guide others through the difficult journey toward resolution of past trauma, victory over addiction, the painful struggle dealing with grief and loss, navigating the anxiety producing maze of life choices. How may I help you live your best life? I am fully vaccinated and will see clients face-to-face who are like wise.
As a graduate of UT in Social Work I developed passion for helping others find balance and well-being, regain lost joy and navigate difficult changes. As a Licensed Profession Counselor having earned my Master in Clinical Mental Health, I gained a deeper understanding of how to guide others through the difficult journey toward resolution of past trauma, victory over addiction, the painful struggle dealing with grief and loss, navigating the anxiety producing maze of life choices. How may I help you live your best life? I am fully vaccinated and will see clients face-to-face who are like wise.
(512) 572-4497 View (512) 572-4497
Photo of Michelle Sumners, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hutto, TX
Michelle Sumners
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCDC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hutto, TX 78634
As a therapist, my goal is to create a safe environment where you can explore the healing process and rediscover your true, authentic self. I work from a strengths-based model that empowers you to cultivate your own strengths, goals, and passions and grow the confidence to overcome current struggles while increasing your ability to cope in future situations. My non-judgmental and affirming approach is based upon a genuine, empathetic, and collaborative therapeutic relationship. Through my own recovery journey, I have learned how empowering it is to feel heard, accepted, and supported in a safe environment.
As a therapist, my goal is to create a safe environment where you can explore the healing process and rediscover your true, authentic self. I work from a strengths-based model that empowers you to cultivate your own strengths, goals, and passions and grow the confidence to overcome current struggles while increasing your ability to cope in future situations. My non-judgmental and affirming approach is based upon a genuine, empathetic, and collaborative therapeutic relationship. Through my own recovery journey, I have learned how empowering it is to feel heard, accepted, and supported in a safe environment.
(737) 258-8146 View (737) 258-8146
Photo of Fabeain Barkwell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hutto, TX
Fabeain Barkwell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hutto, TX 78634
Fabeain Barkwell is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is immensely passionate about removing the stigma attached to therapy to help people discover the healthiest versions of themselves. With 10 years of experience working in the mental health field Fabeain has assisted clients in identifying strengths coping skills in multiple settings such as MHMR, residential treatment, juvenile justice, alternative education, primary care, substance abuse, inpatient acute/partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient, and advocate legislatively as an analyst on mental health policy.
Fabeain Barkwell is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is immensely passionate about removing the stigma attached to therapy to help people discover the healthiest versions of themselves. With 10 years of experience working in the mental health field Fabeain has assisted clients in identifying strengths coping skills in multiple settings such as MHMR, residential treatment, juvenile justice, alternative education, primary care, substance abuse, inpatient acute/partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient, and advocate legislatively as an analyst on mental health policy.
(512) 746-7315 View (512) 746-7315
Photo of Jenny Silver, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hutto, TX
Jenny Silver
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
Hutto, TX 78634
Waitlist for new clients
My interest is in people, their unique stories, and what brings them to therapy plays an important role in my work. I see my job as helping each individual understand what may be interfering in achieving their goals. I use a variety of techniques, tailored to each person's needs. I enjoy the process of forming a unique, collaborative relationship with each individual, leading to helpful change.
My interest is in people, their unique stories, and what brings them to therapy plays an important role in my work. I see my job as helping each individual understand what may be interfering in achieving their goals. I use a variety of techniques, tailored to each person's needs. I enjoy the process of forming a unique, collaborative relationship with each individual, leading to helpful change.
(512) 290-9458 View (512) 290-9458
Photo of Three Oaks Counseling & Psychiatry, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hutto, TX
Three Oaks Counseling & Psychiatry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Hutto, TX 78634
We are a group of talented and experienced mental health clinicians that provides counseling and medication management all across Austin and greater Texas. We have offices in West Lake Hills, Georgetown, and Dripping Springs. We also provide telehealth service anywhere in Texas.
We are a group of talented and experienced mental health clinicians that provides counseling and medication management all across Austin and greater Texas. We have offices in West Lake Hills, Georgetown, and Dripping Springs. We also provide telehealth service anywhere in Texas.
(512) 675-1823 View (512) 675-1823

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Maeve Larkin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hutto, TX
Maeve Larkin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Pflugerville, TX 78660
Maeve has worked with both adolescents and young adults coping with a wide array of mental health diagnoses: Depression, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, and Borderline Personality Disorder, in addition to Autism Spectrum Disorder and LGBTQ+ individuals.
Maeve Larkin (she/her) is a Licensed Master Social Worker. Born and raised in Boston, MA, Maeve received her Master’s degree in Clinical Social Work from Boston College, and a Bachelor’s in Human Services from Northeastern University. Maeve’s professional experience with dialectical behavioral therapy began while working as a clinical intern at The Victor School, a therapeutic high school in Acton, MA. While at the school, she created and facilitated a socio-emotional skills group that utilized techniques in mindfulness and emotional regulation in addition to offering one-on-one therapeutic services.
Maeve has worked with both adolescents and young adults coping with a wide array of mental health diagnoses: Depression, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, and Borderline Personality Disorder, in addition to Autism Spectrum Disorder and LGBTQ+ individuals.
Maeve Larkin (she/her) is a Licensed Master Social Worker. Born and raised in Boston, MA, Maeve received her Master’s degree in Clinical Social Work from Boston College, and a Bachelor’s in Human Services from Northeastern University. Maeve’s professional experience with dialectical behavioral therapy began while working as a clinical intern at The Victor School, a therapeutic high school in Acton, MA. While at the school, she created and facilitated a socio-emotional skills group that utilized techniques in mindfulness and emotional regulation in addition to offering one-on-one therapeutic services.
(512) 877-7518 View (512) 877-7518
Photo of Lindsay Clegg, LPC Associate in Hutto, TX
Lindsay Clegg
LPC Associate, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
Round Rock, TX 78681
Specialties include: adult neurodiversity (ADHD, Autism +), bipolar, anxiety, depression, highly sensitive person, narcissist & borderline concerns, women in tech & STEM, body image, family dynamics & conflict, child-parent issues, underlying needs, communication, boundaries.
I help clients increase self-understanding, manage healthy relationships, & navigate career/societal challenges. I believe it’s important to feel proud of the things that make you unique & unlearn ideas that these traits are flaws. Self-acceptance begins when we take time to really notice who we are, the way we function most naturally, & how our identities have been infused with negative messages over time. Self-acceptance & self-compassion address issues at their root. With permission to be imperfect & by sustaining self-validating beliefs, we can relax.
Specialties include: adult neurodiversity (ADHD, Autism +), bipolar, anxiety, depression, highly sensitive person, narcissist & borderline concerns, women in tech & STEM, body image, family dynamics & conflict, child-parent issues, underlying needs, communication, boundaries.
I help clients increase self-understanding, manage healthy relationships, & navigate career/societal challenges. I believe it’s important to feel proud of the things that make you unique & unlearn ideas that these traits are flaws. Self-acceptance begins when we take time to really notice who we are, the way we function most naturally, & how our identities have been infused with negative messages over time. Self-acceptance & self-compassion address issues at their root. With permission to be imperfect & by sustaining self-validating beliefs, we can relax.
(737) 250-0347 View (737) 250-0347
Photo of Cara Haynie-Peña, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hutto, TX
Cara Haynie-Peña
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Georgetown, TX 78628  (Online Only)
My clinical focus has been primarily with clients struggling with depression, anxiety, stress, relationship issues, women's issues, post traumatic stress and severe and persistent mental illness disorders including bipolar disorders, the schizophrenic disorders and personality disorders.
Hi, my name is Cara. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Texas, certified in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, with more than 25 years experience providing individual therapy. I earned a BA degree in psychology and an MS degree in counseling and educational psychology, from Texas A & M University-Corpus Christi, in 1997. I have had a private practice since 2005, while also working in psychiatric hospitals, outpatient facilities and correctional facilities. I am able to see clients, all over the State of Texas, through a HIPAA compliant confidential video link, a very convenient way to get therapy.
My clinical focus has been primarily with clients struggling with depression, anxiety, stress, relationship issues, women's issues, post traumatic stress and severe and persistent mental illness disorders including bipolar disorders, the schizophrenic disorders and personality disorders.
Hi, my name is Cara. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Texas, certified in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, with more than 25 years experience providing individual therapy. I earned a BA degree in psychology and an MS degree in counseling and educational psychology, from Texas A & M University-Corpus Christi, in 1997. I have had a private practice since 2005, while also working in psychiatric hospitals, outpatient facilities and correctional facilities. I am able to see clients, all over the State of Texas, through a HIPAA compliant confidential video link, a very convenient way to get therapy.
(361) 733-3494 View (361) 733-3494
Photo of Sandie Hinton-Owens, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hutto, TX
Sandie Hinton-Owens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Georgetown, TX 78628
Sandie has a passion for helping people from all walks of life, in all stages of life. She believes by creating a safe, welcoming environment, and building trusting relationships change is possible. Her goal is to help people become aware of their own skill sets and resiliency from within through the use of strengths based and solutions focused therapy in addition to CBT and a hit of DBT skills. Sandie has experience working with a variety of mental health diagnoses including anxiety, depression, bipolar, borderline personality, and ASD. She can also provide clarification and advocacy for ARD and IEP paperwork and/or meetings.
Sandie has a passion for helping people from all walks of life, in all stages of life. She believes by creating a safe, welcoming environment, and building trusting relationships change is possible. Her goal is to help people become aware of their own skill sets and resiliency from within through the use of strengths based and solutions focused therapy in addition to CBT and a hit of DBT skills. Sandie has experience working with a variety of mental health diagnoses including anxiety, depression, bipolar, borderline personality, and ASD. She can also provide clarification and advocacy for ARD and IEP paperwork and/or meetings.
(512) 729-1488 View (512) 729-1488
Photo of Stacey Lavoro Rexrode, Psychologist in Hutto, TX
Stacey Lavoro Rexrode
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Round Rock, TX 78681  (Online Only)
I offer individual and group psychotherapy, psychological assessments, and tele-psychology interventions for trauma (PTSD), mood disorders (Depression, Bipolar Disorder), anxiety disorders (OCD, Social phobia, Panic Disorder), anger management and self-esteem programs, programs for Insomnia and sleep disorders, and parenting help.
I take pride in my ability to relate to a large population, and I enjoy working with clients 12 years of age and up. My clients over the years have had: depression, anxiety disorders, adjustment difficulty, as well as teenagers with a variety of school, peer, family, and self-esteem issues. I work best with clients who are motivated for change, but also understand that teenagers often come to therapy at the urging of parents and may be resistant at first. I welcome women's issues, veteran's issues, LGBTQ issues, those who are just "stuck", going through a life transition or folks who have been in and out of therapy for years.
I offer individual and group psychotherapy, psychological assessments, and tele-psychology interventions for trauma (PTSD), mood disorders (Depression, Bipolar Disorder), anxiety disorders (OCD, Social phobia, Panic Disorder), anger management and self-esteem programs, programs for Insomnia and sleep disorders, and parenting help.
I take pride in my ability to relate to a large population, and I enjoy working with clients 12 years of age and up. My clients over the years have had: depression, anxiety disorders, adjustment difficulty, as well as teenagers with a variety of school, peer, family, and self-esteem issues. I work best with clients who are motivated for change, but also understand that teenagers often come to therapy at the urging of parents and may be resistant at first. I welcome women's issues, veteran's issues, LGBTQ issues, those who are just "stuck", going through a life transition or folks who have been in and out of therapy for years.
(512) 886-5530 View (512) 886-5530
Photo of Isamar Silva, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hutto, TX
Isamar Silva
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Pflugerville, TX 78660
I have experience working with adolescents, college students, and adults with depression, anxiety, trauma, borderline, bipolar, ADHD, and addiction.
You may have always navigated difficult moments on your own and now it’s affecting your connection with your loved ones. Maybe you haven’t felt safe opening up to the people you thought you trusted and it’s created conflicts in your relationships. Is it hard to express your emotions because you’re used to minimizing your needs to please others? I want to help you stop the self-sabotaging and discard the narrative that you aren’t deserving of good things. My goal is to teach you skills that will assist you with adjusting negative thinking styles and behaviors, reduce unwanted feelings, and practice self-acceptance and reflection.
I have experience working with adolescents, college students, and adults with depression, anxiety, trauma, borderline, bipolar, ADHD, and addiction.
You may have always navigated difficult moments on your own and now it’s affecting your connection with your loved ones. Maybe you haven’t felt safe opening up to the people you thought you trusted and it’s created conflicts in your relationships. Is it hard to express your emotions because you’re used to minimizing your needs to please others? I want to help you stop the self-sabotaging and discard the narrative that you aren’t deserving of good things. My goal is to teach you skills that will assist you with adjusting negative thinking styles and behaviors, reduce unwanted feelings, and practice self-acceptance and reflection.
(512) 399-4593 View (512) 399-4593
Photo of Howard Monsour, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hutto, TX
Howard Monsour
Licensed Professional Counselor, M Ed, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Georgetown, TX 78626  (Online Only)
I'm eager to support individuals from all walks of life dealing with anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions, destructive behaviors, identity crisis, grief/loss, or a new diagnosis. My clients desire empathy, support, compassion, and understanding; A place they can come to that feels safe. I'm honored to help create that space for them to explore and unpack emotional pain and stress as the result of past traumas or present circumstances. With the proper support and tools, clients can gain hope for their future, confidence with their decision-making, and develop the internal peace they deserve.
I'm eager to support individuals from all walks of life dealing with anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions, destructive behaviors, identity crisis, grief/loss, or a new diagnosis. My clients desire empathy, support, compassion, and understanding; A place they can come to that feels safe. I'm honored to help create that space for them to explore and unpack emotional pain and stress as the result of past traumas or present circumstances. With the proper support and tools, clients can gain hope for their future, confidence with their decision-making, and develop the internal peace they deserve.
(682) 334-8794 View (682) 334-8794
Photo of Kelly Gadbury, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hutto, TX
Kelly Gadbury
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Round Rock, TX 78683  (Online Only)
Are you feeling distracted, disorganized, and stressed all the time? Do these issues impact your work, home life and even relationships? Are you ready to take control of your life?
Are you feeling distracted, disorganized, and stressed all the time? Do these issues impact your work, home life and even relationships? Are you ready to take control of your life?
(512) 982-9752 View (512) 982-9752
Photo of Austin DBT Associates, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hutto, TX
Austin DBT Associates
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pflugerville, TX 78660
Nicole Lansbery is a Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. Nicole attended the University of Texas at Austin where she received her Bachelor’s in Psychology. She went on to attend St. Edward’s University to receive her Master's in Counseling. ​ Before starting her own private practice ten years ago, Nicole worked at a local psychiatric hospital for five years, in both inpatient and intensive outpatient settings. While there she restarted the pet therapy program with her golden retriever – a certified Pet Partner, Ruby.
Nicole Lansbery is a Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. Nicole attended the University of Texas at Austin where she received her Bachelor’s in Psychology. She went on to attend St. Edward’s University to receive her Master's in Counseling. ​ Before starting her own private practice ten years ago, Nicole worked at a local psychiatric hospital for five years, in both inpatient and intensive outpatient settings. While there she restarted the pet therapy program with her golden retriever – a certified Pet Partner, Ruby.
(737) 530-3467 View (737) 530-3467
Photo of Austin DBT Associates, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hutto, TX
Austin DBT Associates
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCSW, LPC, LMSW, LPCI, LCDC
Verified Verified
Pflugerville, TX 78660
DBT is short for Dialectical Behavior Therapy. This is a specialized type of therapy that requires intensive post-graduate training by the therapists who offer it. Dialectical Behavior Therapy is recognized as an evidence-based practice by the American Psychiatric Association. DBT is an effective treatment for helping people to manage the intensity of their emotions and impulsive behavioral patterns that are disrupting the quality of their daily lives. What DBT does best is that it teaches skills that are not confined to a clinician's office. These skills generalize to every aspect of your world.
DBT is short for Dialectical Behavior Therapy. This is a specialized type of therapy that requires intensive post-graduate training by the therapists who offer it. Dialectical Behavior Therapy is recognized as an evidence-based practice by the American Psychiatric Association. DBT is an effective treatment for helping people to manage the intensity of their emotions and impulsive behavioral patterns that are disrupting the quality of their daily lives. What DBT does best is that it teaches skills that are not confined to a clinician's office. These skills generalize to every aspect of your world.
(812) 413-0084 View (812) 413-0084
Photo of Yvonne Emil Elizondo, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hutto, TX
Yvonne Emil Elizondo
Licensed Professional Counselor, ThD, MEd, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Round Rock, TX 78665
Healing Happens Here! My GOAL is to help you find emotional wellness & happiness! Life stressors can result in anxiety, depression, sadness leaving us overwhelmed, doubtful & using unhealthy habits & coping skills to survive. Life stressors & past trauma can be challenging; but remember, you are not alone! Given a SAFE space, appropriate coping skills & guidance which encourage self-exploration & life management you will feel better & learn to live a healthier life. Working together we can create an individualized therapeutic plan specific to your needs based on your goals, personal tendencies, beliefs & lifestyle.
Healing Happens Here! My GOAL is to help you find emotional wellness & happiness! Life stressors can result in anxiety, depression, sadness leaving us overwhelmed, doubtful & using unhealthy habits & coping skills to survive. Life stressors & past trauma can be challenging; but remember, you are not alone! Given a SAFE space, appropriate coping skills & guidance which encourage self-exploration & life management you will feel better & learn to live a healthier life. Working together we can create an individualized therapeutic plan specific to your needs based on your goals, personal tendencies, beliefs & lifestyle.
(737) 377-5126 View (737) 377-5126

See more therapy options for Hutto

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.