Therapists in Italy, TX
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Check out therapists located nearby or offering teletherapy in Texas below.Online Therapists
Elite Style Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
Mansfield, TX 76063
I am passionate, motivated, and interested in happy others. I am ex-military, an ex-dual military, and a dependent wife with children. I have experience with helping with military issues, depression, parenting issues, marriage counseling, individual sessions, anxiety, grief, trauma, drug abuse, PTSD, bipolar, borderline personality, and other mental health disorders. I am doing Zoom and telecounseling at the time. This means I can serve all of Texas via telecounseling not just Mansfield. https://www.amazon.com/s?k=barbara+smith-Jordan&crid=YTT9FORJBQRC&sprefix=barbara+smith-jordan%2Caps%2C306&ref=nb_sb_noss
I am passionate, motivated, and interested in happy others. I am ex-military, an ex-dual military, and a dependent wife with children. I have experience with helping with military issues, depression, parenting issues, marriage counseling, individual sessions, anxiety, grief, trauma, drug abuse, PTSD, bipolar, borderline personality, and other mental health disorders. I am doing Zoom and telecounseling at the time. This means I can serve all of Texas via telecounseling not just Mansfield. https://www.amazon.com/s?k=barbara+smith-Jordan&crid=YTT9FORJBQRC&sprefix=barbara+smith-jordan%2Caps%2C306&ref=nb_sb_noss
Allison Ondocsin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75219
My practice consists of individuals and couples with a large range of experiences including: anxiety, depression, eating disorders, bipolar disorder, feeling stuck, life transitions, loss, trauma, infidelity, work frustration, sexual dissatisfaction, and relationship conflicts.
You've already taken a brave step. Seeking therapy means you have a desire to engage in life in a different way. Across their diverse backgrounds, my clients have all decided they want something more, and I have the privilege of watching them get there. By establishing a safe space for expression and exploration, I'll join you as you tolerate and, when ready, lean into uncomfortable thoughts, feelings and experiences. I empower clients by supporting them as they integrate techniques associated with overcoming challenges, increasing resilience and joy, building courage to challenge fears, and living more wholeheartedly.
My practice consists of individuals and couples with a large range of experiences including: anxiety, depression, eating disorders, bipolar disorder, feeling stuck, life transitions, loss, trauma, infidelity, work frustration, sexual dissatisfaction, and relationship conflicts.
You've already taken a brave step. Seeking therapy means you have a desire to engage in life in a different way. Across their diverse backgrounds, my clients have all decided they want something more, and I have the privilege of watching them get there. By establishing a safe space for expression and exploration, I'll join you as you tolerate and, when ready, lean into uncomfortable thoughts, feelings and experiences. I empower clients by supporting them as they integrate techniques associated with overcoming challenges, increasing resilience and joy, building courage to challenge fears, and living more wholeheartedly.
Zeeshan Hussain
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75071
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate under the supervision of Laurie Todd, LPC-S in the state of Texas. I hold a MA in Counseling Psychology from Texas Woman’s University, where I gained specialization in various treatment modalities. I have experience working with clients who presented with symptoms of depression, anxiety, bipolar and personality disorders, life adjustment stressors, trauma, and more.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate under the supervision of Laurie Todd, LPC-S in the state of Texas. I hold a MA in Counseling Psychology from Texas Woman’s University, where I gained specialization in various treatment modalities. I have experience working with clients who presented with symptoms of depression, anxiety, bipolar and personality disorders, life adjustment stressors, trauma, and more.
Jesse Gill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Highland Village, TX 75077
I am a licensed clinician who has experience working with trauma, anxiety, depression, stress, OCD, and bipolar. I believe that from our birth we begin building an image of who we are, how relationships should function, and how the world works around us. For many of us, adverse experiences in life can lead to difficulty managing stress or daily functioning as we get older. We may need help processing our lived experiences and understanding how they have effected our decision making and the struggles we face today. I believe that, by focusing on the present and applying the past, we can discover both our goals and our strengths.
I am a licensed clinician who has experience working with trauma, anxiety, depression, stress, OCD, and bipolar. I believe that from our birth we begin building an image of who we are, how relationships should function, and how the world works around us. For many of us, adverse experiences in life can lead to difficulty managing stress or daily functioning as we get older. We may need help processing our lived experiences and understanding how they have effected our decision making and the struggles we face today. I believe that, by focusing on the present and applying the past, we can discover both our goals and our strengths.
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.
Casey Leamy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCDC, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75252
My experience encompasses substance abuse, self-harm, domestic violence, trauma, adolescent behavioral issues, relational issues, family conflict, parenting, depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, Adjustment Disorders, Bipolar, Borderline, and ADHD.
Nothing in life is one size fits all; therapy is no exception. My first priority is to establish a trusting relationship with you, then together create goals tailored to your individual needs. As humans, we tend to shy away from uncomfortable, unwanted, or overwhelming feelings/thoughts. We all develop habits to cope; sometimes those habits may no longer be helpful. In a non-judgmental and safe environment, we will work together, unlock your potential and create the change you desire. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor and fully trained in EMDR in Texas.
My experience encompasses substance abuse, self-harm, domestic violence, trauma, adolescent behavioral issues, relational issues, family conflict, parenting, depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, Adjustment Disorders, Bipolar, Borderline, and ADHD.
Nothing in life is one size fits all; therapy is no exception. My first priority is to establish a trusting relationship with you, then together create goals tailored to your individual needs. As humans, we tend to shy away from uncomfortable, unwanted, or overwhelming feelings/thoughts. We all develop habits to cope; sometimes those habits may no longer be helpful. In a non-judgmental and safe environment, we will work together, unlock your potential and create the change you desire. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor and fully trained in EMDR in Texas.
Kay Fontenot
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, LCDC, BSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75204
My professional goal is to provide connection, healing, and insight during each of our encounters, With a passion for attachment and relational models, I have training, expertise and experience in providing counseling and psychotherapy for the following types of concerns/struggles: Women's Concerns, Emerging Adults, Relationship Strain, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Substance Use, Personality Traits and/or Disorders, Divorce, Infidelity, Boundaries, Grief and Loss, Career Concerns, Assertiveness Training, & Life Adjustments. I also offer individual, group and family intensives for connection, insight and deeper healing.
My professional goal is to provide connection, healing, and insight during each of our encounters, With a passion for attachment and relational models, I have training, expertise and experience in providing counseling and psychotherapy for the following types of concerns/struggles: Women's Concerns, Emerging Adults, Relationship Strain, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Substance Use, Personality Traits and/or Disorders, Divorce, Infidelity, Boundaries, Grief and Loss, Career Concerns, Assertiveness Training, & Life Adjustments. I also offer individual, group and family intensives for connection, insight and deeper healing.
Megan Rasmussen
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Frisco, TX 75034
Amongst Megan’s areas of expertise are the treatment of Anxiety, Depression, Adjustment Disorder, Alcohol/ Chemical Dependency, Anger Management, Attachment Disorders, ADHD, Behavior Modification, Bipolar Disorder, Codependency, Domestic Violence, Disordered Eating, Gender Identity/ Sexuality, LGBTQIA+, Impulse Disorder, Mood Disorders, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Panic Disorder, Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Psychotic Disorder, Self-harm, Suicide Ideation, Sleep Disorders, Stress Management, Trauma, and Women’s Issues. She enjoys working with teenagers, adults, couples, and families.
Amongst Megan’s areas of expertise are the treatment of Anxiety, Depression, Adjustment Disorder, Alcohol/ Chemical Dependency, Anger Management, Attachment Disorders, ADHD, Behavior Modification, Bipolar Disorder, Codependency, Domestic Violence, Disordered Eating, Gender Identity/ Sexuality, LGBTQIA+, Impulse Disorder, Mood Disorders, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Panic Disorder, Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Psychotic Disorder, Self-harm, Suicide Ideation, Sleep Disorders, Stress Management, Trauma, and Women’s Issues. She enjoys working with teenagers, adults, couples, and families.
Chris E Goetz
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75211
My clinical expertise includes treating MDD, Bipolar I & II, Schizoaffective, BPD, Dual-diagnosis and SUDS.
My motto is, “reveal the root, expose the lie and heal the wounded spirit.” It is my passion to work with those who struggle with severe trauma and emotional abuse. Based on the comfort level of the patient - faith, spirituality and prayer can often be a vital part of the therapeutic process. I strive to meet the unique and individual needs of each client and adjust my approach accordingly. I truly consider it an honor and a privilege to partner with you in your journey towards wholeness. There is a plan and a purpose for your life, full of unique strengths and talents. My goal is to help you become all that you were created to be.
My clinical expertise includes treating MDD, Bipolar I & II, Schizoaffective, BPD, Dual-diagnosis and SUDS.
My motto is, “reveal the root, expose the lie and heal the wounded spirit.” It is my passion to work with those who struggle with severe trauma and emotional abuse. Based on the comfort level of the patient - faith, spirituality and prayer can often be a vital part of the therapeutic process. I strive to meet the unique and individual needs of each client and adjust my approach accordingly. I truly consider it an honor and a privilege to partner with you in your journey towards wholeness. There is a plan and a purpose for your life, full of unique strengths and talents. My goal is to help you become all that you were created to be.
Francine Esquiliano
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Flower Mound, TX 75028
Through the use of these skillsI am able to treat adjustment disorder, borderline personality, depression, anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Major Depressive disorder, personality disorders, schizophrenia, general anxiety disorder, and substance use disorders.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Texas. I earned my Master’s degree in Counseling at Southwestern Adventist University while working at the local mental health authority Pecan Valley Centers in Cleburne, TX. I worked as a case manager, LPC-Intern, and an on-call crisis responder. I was trained using Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) among many other trainings. I worked at The Johnson County Children's Advocacy Center as a counselor where I was fully trained in Trauma Focused – Cognitive Behavior Therapy (TFCBT) and Play Therapy. At the advocacy center I worked primarily with youths who suffer from trauma.
Through the use of these skillsI am able to treat adjustment disorder, borderline personality, depression, anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Major Depressive disorder, personality disorders, schizophrenia, general anxiety disorder, and substance use disorders.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Texas. I earned my Master’s degree in Counseling at Southwestern Adventist University while working at the local mental health authority Pecan Valley Centers in Cleburne, TX. I worked as a case manager, LPC-Intern, and an on-call crisis responder. I was trained using Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) among many other trainings. I worked at The Johnson County Children's Advocacy Center as a counselor where I was fully trained in Trauma Focused – Cognitive Behavior Therapy (TFCBT) and Play Therapy. At the advocacy center I worked primarily with youths who suffer from trauma.
Ashley Shovel
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frisco, TX 75034
Waitlist for new clients
I work with individuals and families who need help to improve parenting and co-parenting skills, as well as additional experience treating Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, life transitions, and behavioral struggles.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with a Master’s degree from the University of North Texas in Counseling with a focus on trauma and play therapy. My work with trauma led me to seek specialized training in childhood abuse, self worth, and resiliency. With my expertise in trauma and Play Therapy, I have dedicated my practice to helping clients overcome their emotional challenges, gain resilience, and find a path towards growth and empowerment. Through a compassionate and collaborative approach, I help clients explore and process their traumatic experiences, develop healthy coping skills, and find strength within themselves
I work with individuals and families who need help to improve parenting and co-parenting skills, as well as additional experience treating Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, life transitions, and behavioral struggles.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with a Master’s degree from the University of North Texas in Counseling with a focus on trauma and play therapy. My work with trauma led me to seek specialized training in childhood abuse, self worth, and resiliency. With my expertise in trauma and Play Therapy, I have dedicated my practice to helping clients overcome their emotional challenges, gain resilience, and find a path towards growth and empowerment. Through a compassionate and collaborative approach, I help clients explore and process their traumatic experiences, develop healthy coping skills, and find strength within themselves
Mimi Walke
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, C-DBT
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75206
I specialize in mood disorders (anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder), relationship issues, and personality disorders.
Do you ever feel misunderstood, alone, or overwhelmed by your daily responsibilities? Therapy can be a great way to learn to build coping skills for your anxiety, depression, or any other mental health challenges you may be facing. Therapy can also help you set goals, work on boundary setting, communication skills, and processing past events that have left lasting marks in current relationships. It's important that I provide a safe space for my clients to express their feelings, needs, and wants to an unbiased person (me, the counselor) and that I can offer feedback that challenges them to grow and heal!
I specialize in mood disorders (anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder), relationship issues, and personality disorders.
Do you ever feel misunderstood, alone, or overwhelmed by your daily responsibilities? Therapy can be a great way to learn to build coping skills for your anxiety, depression, or any other mental health challenges you may be facing. Therapy can also help you set goals, work on boundary setting, communication skills, and processing past events that have left lasting marks in current relationships. It's important that I provide a safe space for my clients to express their feelings, needs, and wants to an unbiased person (me, the counselor) and that I can offer feedback that challenges them to grow and heal!
Andrea Cunningham
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S, CYT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75023
I am highly skilled in treating mood and anxiety disorders including depression and bipolar disorders, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, OCD, PTSD, and Social Anxiety Disorder.
I am committed to helping my clients achieve their goals. I believe that counseling can promote a lifestyle that results in physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. I focus on the client as a whole individual, rather than a disorder, and encourage healthy behaviors across various aspects of life. I conceptualize individuals and form treatment plans tailored to each client's unique characteristics, strengths, values, and needs. I work diligently to create a safe, empathic, and supportive environment for my clients.
I am highly skilled in treating mood and anxiety disorders including depression and bipolar disorders, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, OCD, PTSD, and Social Anxiety Disorder.
I am committed to helping my clients achieve their goals. I believe that counseling can promote a lifestyle that results in physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. I focus on the client as a whole individual, rather than a disorder, and encourage healthy behaviors across various aspects of life. I conceptualize individuals and form treatment plans tailored to each client's unique characteristics, strengths, values, and needs. I work diligently to create a safe, empathic, and supportive environment for my clients.
Manuel Vicente
LPC Associate, MEd
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Colleyville, TX 76034
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate under the supervision of Heidi Johanson, LPC-S. I graduated with a MEd in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Lamar University. I have had experience in working with clients who have depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD/Trauma, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, Domestic violent relationships, substance use disorders and life adjustment stressors. My goal as a counselor is to find a tailored approach to meeting each client's specific needs to help uncover their strength. The years of experience I have in the behavioral health field has helped shaped me to be non judgmental.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate under the supervision of Heidi Johanson, LPC-S. I graduated with a MEd in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Lamar University. I have had experience in working with clients who have depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD/Trauma, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, Domestic violent relationships, substance use disorders and life adjustment stressors. My goal as a counselor is to find a tailored approach to meeting each client's specific needs to help uncover their strength. The years of experience I have in the behavioral health field has helped shaped me to be non judgmental.
Nancy Lownds
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070
As a licensed clinical social worker in Texas, I have 20 years of experience that includes working in Inpatient Behavioral Health Hospitals specializing in trauma and substance use disorders, and Outpatient Programs in trauma and addiction. I have worked with co-occurring disorders, such as depression, bipolar disorders, anxiety, PTSD and addiction. I grew up in Atlanta, Georgia and attended the University of Georgia for my BSW degree and The University of Texas in Arlington for my MSSW degree. I am trained in CBT, DBT, Family Systems, Trauma Model Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy.
As a licensed clinical social worker in Texas, I have 20 years of experience that includes working in Inpatient Behavioral Health Hospitals specializing in trauma and substance use disorders, and Outpatient Programs in trauma and addiction. I have worked with co-occurring disorders, such as depression, bipolar disorders, anxiety, PTSD and addiction. I grew up in Atlanta, Georgia and attended the University of Georgia for my BSW degree and The University of Texas in Arlington for my MSSW degree. I am trained in CBT, DBT, Family Systems, Trauma Model Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy.
Tiffany Damewood
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCDC
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070
I am especially passionate about working with autistic individuals, ADHDers, AuDHDers, and individuals with mood disorders (Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder).
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor (LCDC). I have a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Texas at Dallas and a master’s degree in social work from the University of Texas at Arlington. As a neurodivergent individual and a parent to my neurodivergent children, I have a unique understanding and lived experience regarding neurodivergence (particularly related to autism and ADHD). I am passionate about working with other neurodivergent individuals of all ages and identities from a neurodiversity-affirming approach.
I am especially passionate about working with autistic individuals, ADHDers, AuDHDers, and individuals with mood disorders (Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder).
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor (LCDC). I have a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Texas at Dallas and a master’s degree in social work from the University of Texas at Arlington. As a neurodivergent individual and a parent to my neurodivergent children, I have a unique understanding and lived experience regarding neurodivergence (particularly related to autism and ADHD). I am passionate about working with other neurodivergent individuals of all ages and identities from a neurodiversity-affirming approach.
Zen Counseling & Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPC-A, LCDC, NCC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75204
Greetings! I am Clara, and I am deeply committed to aiding others and derive satisfaction from providing something of value that enhances your existence. I assist people in overcoming daily and life challenges, including but not limited to anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, grief, LGBTQ issues, life transitions, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), substance use disorder (addiction), and trauma. I support the promotion of mental health, which includes psychological, emotional, social, and wellness dimensions, in order to assist people in improving their overall well-being.
Greetings! I am Clara, and I am deeply committed to aiding others and derive satisfaction from providing something of value that enhances your existence. I assist people in overcoming daily and life challenges, including but not limited to anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, grief, LGBTQ issues, life transitions, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), substance use disorder (addiction), and trauma. I support the promotion of mental health, which includes psychological, emotional, social, and wellness dimensions, in order to assist people in improving their overall well-being.
Elizabeth Cooper
Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Cedar Hill, TX 75104
Life's challenges can leave us feeling stuck or isolated as if we need to hide our pain and carry these burdens alone. But what happens if these burdens are too heavy to bear? That's where I come in. As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I am here to offer you a guiding hand through some of life's toughest moments. Whether you're navigating the aftermath of a miscarriage, adjusting to life postpartum, or grappling with a bipolar disorder diagnosis, you don't have to face it alone. Together, we can work to move through these changes and onto the next chapter of your life.
Life's challenges can leave us feeling stuck or isolated as if we need to hide our pain and carry these burdens alone. But what happens if these burdens are too heavy to bear? That's where I come in. As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I am here to offer you a guiding hand through some of life's toughest moments. Whether you're navigating the aftermath of a miscarriage, adjusting to life postpartum, or grappling with a bipolar disorder diagnosis, you don't have to face it alone. Together, we can work to move through these changes and onto the next chapter of your life.
Katherine Fields
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76110 (Online Only)
She also has clinical experience working with adolescents and adults who struggle with relationships, depression, anxiety, addiction and more acute psychiatric disorders such as Bipolar Disorder.
Katherine Fields is a licensed clinical therapist and school counselor in the state of Texas. She is an army brat and former navy spouse which have afforded her the opportunity to experience a wide range of cultures, including South, Central America, Italy and Japan. Recently, Katherine traversed to Mexico for eight months to learn more about its rich culture. Living in Texas, she currently accepts new clients; whether student, professional or retired. She uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help adults both young and seasoned to make sense of the world around them.
She also has clinical experience working with adolescents and adults who struggle with relationships, depression, anxiety, addiction and more acute psychiatric disorders such as Bipolar Disorder.
Katherine Fields is a licensed clinical therapist and school counselor in the state of Texas. She is an army brat and former navy spouse which have afforded her the opportunity to experience a wide range of cultures, including South, Central America, Italy and Japan. Recently, Katherine traversed to Mexico for eight months to learn more about its rich culture. Living in Texas, she currently accepts new clients; whether student, professional or retired. She uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help adults both young and seasoned to make sense of the world around them.
Nadia T. Hasan
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75069 (Online Only)
Sometimes life can be challenging, and you need support from an expert to help you feel better. I can help you recover from depression, bipolar disorder, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, OCD, panic disorders, grief/ loss, trauma, low self-esteem, academic stress, social identity concerns (racial, ethnic, sexual), interpersonal issues, relationship problems, and family concerns. I also provide psychological assessments and evaluations to diagnose learning disabilities, ADHD, disability, and PTSD.
Sometimes life can be challenging, and you need support from an expert to help you feel better. I can help you recover from depression, bipolar disorder, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, OCD, panic disorders, grief/ loss, trauma, low self-esteem, academic stress, social identity concerns (racial, ethnic, sexual), interpersonal issues, relationship problems, and family concerns. I also provide psychological assessments and evaluations to diagnose learning disabilities, ADHD, disability, and PTSD.
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.