Photo of Felicia Glick, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kaufman, TX
Felicia Glick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kaufman, TX 75142
Accepting new clients for face to face in Texas and Virtual. Are you looking for someone trustworthy who can help? Why just survive when you can thrive. True change & healing come from deep within and is a process requiring respect and love of yourself. If you are seeking change for yourself or in your relationships, I can help you envision and implement strategies to get you to a better mindset. My empathetic, energetic, motivational style, allows even the difficult topics to be explored. I love the Gottman Method to improve relationships and am fascinated by the unconscious mind. I have been helping couples for over 15 years.
Accepting new clients for face to face in Texas and Virtual. Are you looking for someone trustworthy who can help? Why just survive when you can thrive. True change & healing come from deep within and is a process requiring respect and love of yourself. If you are seeking change for yourself or in your relationships, I can help you envision and implement strategies to get you to a better mindset. My empathetic, energetic, motivational style, allows even the difficult topics to be explored. I love the Gottman Method to improve relationships and am fascinated by the unconscious mind. I have been helping couples for over 15 years.
(430) 233-5577 View (430) 233-5577
Photo of Diane M Gard, Psychologist in Kaufman, TX
Diane M Gard
Psychologist, PhD, BFK, NFK
Verified Verified
Kaufman, TX 75142
Dr. Gard has a PhD in Health Psychology/Behavioral Medicine with over 30 years of clinical experience. Clients span a wide variety of diagnoses. She sees clients Age 5 to seniors. ETNH office is open Mondays through Thursdays and by appointment to serve the community. She can provide biofeedback, neurofeedback, EMDR, hypnosis, light therapy in addition to eclectic approaches (cognitive and behavioral) to address your specific needs.
Dr. Gard has a PhD in Health Psychology/Behavioral Medicine with over 30 years of clinical experience. Clients span a wide variety of diagnoses. She sees clients Age 5 to seniors. ETNH office is open Mondays through Thursdays and by appointment to serve the community. She can provide biofeedback, neurofeedback, EMDR, hypnosis, light therapy in addition to eclectic approaches (cognitive and behavioral) to address your specific needs.
(903) 767-4190 View (903) 767-4190
Photo of Eric A. Ward, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kaufman, TX
Eric A. Ward
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kaufman, TX 75142
NOW OFFERING IN-PERSON OR ONLINE SESSIONS! Stress & past trauma can sneak up & have us feeling stuck. Chemical & sexual addictions can effect our work, our marriages, our relationships, & our lives. The weight is heavy, but there is hope. For almost twenty years, I've worked with adults, adolescents, couples, & families to help them overcome all manner of addictions & traumas, alleviate anxiety & depression, improve relationships, & reach their personal & relational potential. If needed, we can also connect you with someone to help you with medication management. You are not alone.
NOW OFFERING IN-PERSON OR ONLINE SESSIONS! Stress & past trauma can sneak up & have us feeling stuck. Chemical & sexual addictions can effect our work, our marriages, our relationships, & our lives. The weight is heavy, but there is hope. For almost twenty years, I've worked with adults, adolescents, couples, & families to help them overcome all manner of addictions & traumas, alleviate anxiety & depression, improve relationships, & reach their personal & relational potential. If needed, we can also connect you with someone to help you with medication management. You are not alone.
(430) 204-2086 View (430) 204-2086
Photo of Katheryn Chaney, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kaufman, TX
Katheryn Chaney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-S, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Kaufman, TX 75142
I believe in creating an environment which serves as a ‘soft place to land’ for my clients. When children are challenged, the entire family is challenged. By creating a positive environment where children feel accepted, valued, and safe, they are able to make sense of their world by expressing themselves in a way that feels natural to them. Children do not always have words to communicate their struggles and can become overwhelmed by big emotions. As a Registered Play Therapist, I strive to give voice to these challenges and support caregivers in navigating the sometimes difficult and very important job of parenting.
I believe in creating an environment which serves as a ‘soft place to land’ for my clients. When children are challenged, the entire family is challenged. By creating a positive environment where children feel accepted, valued, and safe, they are able to make sense of their world by expressing themselves in a way that feels natural to them. Children do not always have words to communicate their struggles and can become overwhelmed by big emotions. As a Registered Play Therapist, I strive to give voice to these challenges and support caregivers in navigating the sometimes difficult and very important job of parenting.
(469) 345-8820 View (469) 345-8820
Photo of Ashley Ward, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kaufman, TX
Ashley Ward
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, EMDR, CCTP
Verified Verified
Kaufman, TX 75142
NOW OFFERING IN-PERSON OR ONLINE SESSIONS! "I am not what happened to me. I am who I choose to become." Stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, and overwhelm can take us to a dark place. But we don't have to stay there. Life and relationships can be hard. But there is hope. As an experienced and compassionate therapist, I work with adults, adolescents, couples, and families to help overcome trauma, alleviate anxiety and depression, build positive relationships and improve their lives. If needed, we can help connect you with someone to help you with medication management. You are not alone.
NOW OFFERING IN-PERSON OR ONLINE SESSIONS! "I am not what happened to me. I am who I choose to become." Stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, and overwhelm can take us to a dark place. But we don't have to stay there. Life and relationships can be hard. But there is hope. As an experienced and compassionate therapist, I work with adults, adolescents, couples, and families to help overcome trauma, alleviate anxiety and depression, build positive relationships and improve their lives. If needed, we can help connect you with someone to help you with medication management. You are not alone.
(430) 204-2145 View (430) 204-2145

Online Therapists

Photo of Nancy E. Giraldo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kaufman, TX
Nancy E. Giraldo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cleburne, TX 76033
Have you been struggling with anxiety, depression, or bipolar disorder? Have you been taking medications, but seem to still struggle to cope? I help people who experience anxiety, depression, and/or bipolar disorder find relief, feel less anxious, gain coping skills, and understanding of what they are experiencing.
I am an experienced therapist working with children, adolescents, families, couples and individual adults on a variety of issues. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, and PREPARE/ENRICH facilitator.
Have you been struggling with anxiety, depression, or bipolar disorder? Have you been taking medications, but seem to still struggle to cope? I help people who experience anxiety, depression, and/or bipolar disorder find relief, feel less anxious, gain coping skills, and understanding of what they are experiencing.
I am an experienced therapist working with children, adolescents, families, couples and individual adults on a variety of issues. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, and PREPARE/ENRICH facilitator.
(817) 997-4538 View (817) 997-4538
Photo of Christopher Keener, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kaufman, TX
Christopher Keener
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, LCDC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75204
I specialize in the treatment of teens and adults facing challenges such as depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and addiction. My priority is creating a safe and supportive environment where clients feel empowered to explore their challenges and work towards positive change.
I specialize in the treatment of teens and adults facing challenges such as depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and addiction. My priority is creating a safe and supportive environment where clients feel empowered to explore their challenges and work towards positive change.
(214) 256-1184 View (214) 256-1184
Photo of Randi Wright, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kaufman, TX
Randi Wright
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
Forney, TX 75126  (Online Only)
Among my areas of practice and experience are Depression, Anxiety, Relaxation, Bipolar disorder, Family issues, Grief and Loss, Anger Management, Relationship Stress, and Self Esteem.
Among my areas of practice and experience are Depression, Anxiety, Relaxation, Bipolar disorder, Family issues, Grief and Loss, Anger Management, Relationship Stress, and Self Esteem.
(469) 746-0235 View (469) 746-0235
Photo of Daniel Meisenheimer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kaufman, TX
Daniel Meisenheimer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Richardson, TX 75080  (Online Only)
Do you find that you have always felt different or highly sensitive? Are you anxious and overwhelmed in social situations or maybe noting that you have sensory sensitivities, or processing issues that make certain interactions challenging? This can be very alienating and exhausting to manage and can lead to self esteem issues and challenges like anxiety, depression, and increased instances of trauma. You may already have a diagnosis such as Autism, ADHD, Schizophrenia or Bipolar. In my therapy, I pull away from harmful "cure" based approaches, and instead, into approaches that nurture self-acceptance and healing.
Do you find that you have always felt different or highly sensitive? Are you anxious and overwhelmed in social situations or maybe noting that you have sensory sensitivities, or processing issues that make certain interactions challenging? This can be very alienating and exhausting to manage and can lead to self esteem issues and challenges like anxiety, depression, and increased instances of trauma. You may already have a diagnosis such as Autism, ADHD, Schizophrenia or Bipolar. In my therapy, I pull away from harmful "cure" based approaches, and instead, into approaches that nurture self-acceptance and healing.
(214) 239-9159 View (214) 239-9159
Photo of Marci'a Blake, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kaufman, TX
Marci'a Blake
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with nearly 15 years of experience helping people navigate the difficult seasons of life. I place a high value on rapport building and strongly believe that each client is an expert on themselves. I have a wide range of skills helping adolescents and adults with issues such as depression, anxiety, bipolar, grief and loss, borderline personality disorder, trauma, school related issues, adjustment and substance use disorders.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with nearly 15 years of experience helping people navigate the difficult seasons of life. I place a high value on rapport building and strongly believe that each client is an expert on themselves. I have a wide range of skills helping adolescents and adults with issues such as depression, anxiety, bipolar, grief and loss, borderline personality disorder, trauma, school related issues, adjustment and substance use disorders.
(469) 529-6022 View (469) 529-6022
Photo of Gabriela G. Merida, Licensed Master Social Worker in Kaufman, TX
Gabriela G. Merida
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75201  (Online Only)
I have vast experience with different diagnoses such as bipolar, depression, anxiety, and trauma.
Not only do I come into sessions with knowledge and education but I come in with personal experiences that make us more alike rather than different. My passion stems from childhood trauma and my goal is to help heal one person at a time from the darkness that continues to haunt them the way it used to haunt me. I am a believer in change and I am passionate about the work that I do.
I have vast experience with different diagnoses such as bipolar, depression, anxiety, and trauma.
Not only do I come into sessions with knowledge and education but I come in with personal experiences that make us more alike rather than different. My passion stems from childhood trauma and my goal is to help heal one person at a time from the darkness that continues to haunt them the way it used to haunt me. I am a believer in change and I am passionate about the work that I do.
(817) 623-5633 View (817) 623-5633
Photo of Glynis Park, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kaufman, TX
Glynis Park
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75024
Glynis has been in the mental health industry for 30 years as a school counselor and teacher, advocate for special needs and gymnastics coach, foster care services, and individual therapy. Glynis’s specialties include Adoptions, Anger, ADHD/ ADD, Anxiety, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Behavior Concerns, Bipolar, Career Coaching, Chronic Disabilities, Coping, Depression, Divorce, Education and Learning disabilities, Family conflict, OCD, Parenting, School Issues, Self-esteem, Sexual Abuse, Sports Performance, LGBTQIA+, Trauma and PTSD, Weight loss, and Womens & Men's Issues. She enjoys working with children ages 4 to 12 and Adults.
Glynis has been in the mental health industry for 30 years as a school counselor and teacher, advocate for special needs and gymnastics coach, foster care services, and individual therapy. Glynis’s specialties include Adoptions, Anger, ADHD/ ADD, Anxiety, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Behavior Concerns, Bipolar, Career Coaching, Chronic Disabilities, Coping, Depression, Divorce, Education and Learning disabilities, Family conflict, OCD, Parenting, School Issues, Self-esteem, Sexual Abuse, Sports Performance, LGBTQIA+, Trauma and PTSD, Weight loss, and Womens & Men's Issues. She enjoys working with children ages 4 to 12 and Adults.
(469) 824-9647 View (469) 824-9647
Photo of Summer Rose, Psychologist in Kaufman, TX
Summer Rose
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75219  (Online Only)
Hi there! Thank you for considering my practice. I have extensive expertise in the following areas: depression/bipolar disorders, anxiety, trauma, parenting issues, behavioral disorders, family discord and child/adolescent issues (though I work with lots of adults too). My modality is eclectic; however, my approach is tailored to what will work for your unique situation. I have expertise in the area of psychological assessment. I conduct assessments weekly for ADHD, learning differences, behavior disorders, etc. I am a frequent speaker in the DFW metroplex and have been featured as an expert panelist on NPR. But above all, I privilege my clients and their voice.
Hi there! Thank you for considering my practice. I have extensive expertise in the following areas: depression/bipolar disorders, anxiety, trauma, parenting issues, behavioral disorders, family discord and child/adolescent issues (though I work with lots of adults too). My modality is eclectic; however, my approach is tailored to what will work for your unique situation. I have expertise in the area of psychological assessment. I conduct assessments weekly for ADHD, learning differences, behavior disorders, etc. I am a frequent speaker in the DFW metroplex and have been featured as an expert panelist on NPR. But above all, I privilege my clients and their voice.
(281) 609-7482 View (281) 609-7482
Photo of Spandana Maitra, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kaufman, TX
Spandana Maitra
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Coppell, TX 75019
I welcome any individual into the space of counseling and working on personal goals. Whether you struggle with anxiety, depression, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, or need some support through a life transition - my hope is that you find safety and comfort within the space we create together. The hardest part about therapy is making that first call, and for you to have done that is a brave thing. The main hope I have for you is the courage to be vulnerable in this nonjudgmental space - we can get there together and start pursuing the life you want for yourself!
I welcome any individual into the space of counseling and working on personal goals. Whether you struggle with anxiety, depression, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, or need some support through a life transition - my hope is that you find safety and comfort within the space we create together. The hardest part about therapy is making that first call, and for you to have done that is a brave thing. The main hope I have for you is the courage to be vulnerable in this nonjudgmental space - we can get there together and start pursuing the life you want for yourself!
(469) 489-3913 View (469) 489-3913
Photo of Landry Therapy Group PLLC - Arlington, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kaufman, TX
Landry Therapy Group PLLC - Arlington
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, TX 76012  (Online Only)
We offer treatment services for marital/couple, anxiety, depression, PTSD, self-injury, suicidal ideation/attempt, bipolar disorder, lesbian, gay, bi-sexual, transgender issues, & general life stresses & stressors.
*TAKING NEW CLIENTS* Our goal is to form a bond of trust and commitment with our clients. With the proper support and guidance in their lives, we believe people have an inherent ability to persevere through struggles with which they are confronted. Lisa works with adults, individuals, couples, and LGBTQ+. Our other 8 therapists work with children, adolescents, adults, and families. We help clients with anxiety, depression, self harm/suicidal ideation, trauma, addiction, issues resulting from trauma, and life's daily struggles. We would like to help you foster a healthier style of living to ensure your future well-being.
We offer treatment services for marital/couple, anxiety, depression, PTSD, self-injury, suicidal ideation/attempt, bipolar disorder, lesbian, gay, bi-sexual, transgender issues, & general life stresses & stressors.
*TAKING NEW CLIENTS* Our goal is to form a bond of trust and commitment with our clients. With the proper support and guidance in their lives, we believe people have an inherent ability to persevere through struggles with which they are confronted. Lisa works with adults, individuals, couples, and LGBTQ+. Our other 8 therapists work with children, adolescents, adults, and families. We help clients with anxiety, depression, self harm/suicidal ideation, trauma, addiction, issues resulting from trauma, and life's daily struggles. We would like to help you foster a healthier style of living to ensure your future well-being.
(214) 234-9157 View (214) 234-9157
Photo of Lavene Counseling PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kaufman, TX
Lavene Counseling PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Coppell, TX 75019  (Online Only)
Lauren’s clients appreciate her expertise in anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, trauma, grief, stress management, and promoting healthy and strong interpersonal relationships. She can assist in healing from divorce and working through issues related to perinatal or postpartum depression/anxiety and parenting. Lauren also offers experience and a passion for working with the unique and complex stressors of military service members, first responders, aviation professionals and their families. She enjoys working with children (10 and up), adolescents, and adults, and will create a treatment plan specifically tailored for you.
Lauren’s clients appreciate her expertise in anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, trauma, grief, stress management, and promoting healthy and strong interpersonal relationships. She can assist in healing from divorce and working through issues related to perinatal or postpartum depression/anxiety and parenting. Lauren also offers experience and a passion for working with the unique and complex stressors of military service members, first responders, aviation professionals and their families. She enjoys working with children (10 and up), adolescents, and adults, and will create a treatment plan specifically tailored for you.
(214) 833-8454 View (214) 833-8454
Photo of Teresa Tribett, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kaufman, TX
Teresa Tribett
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75243
I have over 15 years of experience treating those struggling with depression, trauma disorders, anxiety related disorders, mood disorders to include bipolar disorder, relationship issues, self-esteem, and systematic family conflict to include parenting issues.
My clients would describe me as easy to talk to, a great listener, honest, and informed. I find great value in creating a foundation of trust and comfortability so my clients can work to meet their therapeutic goals. Counseling is most effective when the client feels accepted and believes the therapist genuinely cares about the topics discussed during session. It is a privilege to be a part of one's journey to improve, change, or maintain aspects in their life. I truly care about each of my client's health and well-being.
I have over 15 years of experience treating those struggling with depression, trauma disorders, anxiety related disorders, mood disorders to include bipolar disorder, relationship issues, self-esteem, and systematic family conflict to include parenting issues.
My clients would describe me as easy to talk to, a great listener, honest, and informed. I find great value in creating a foundation of trust and comfortability so my clients can work to meet their therapeutic goals. Counseling is most effective when the client feels accepted and believes the therapist genuinely cares about the topics discussed during session. It is a privilege to be a part of one's journey to improve, change, or maintain aspects in their life. I truly care about each of my client's health and well-being.
(214) 833-8301 View (214) 833-8301
Photo of Kay Fontenot, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kaufman, TX
Kay Fontenot
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, LCDC, BSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waxahachie, TX 75165
My professional goal is to provide connection, healing, and insight during each of our encounters, With a passion for attachment and relational models, I have training, expertise and experience in providing counseling and psychotherapy for the following types of concerns/struggles: Women's Concerns, Emerging Adults, Relationship Strain, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Substance Use, Personality Traits and/or Disorders, Divorce, Infidelity, Boundaries, Grief and Loss, Career Concerns, Assertiveness Training, & Life Adjustments. I also offer individual, group and family intensives for connection, insight and deeper healing.
My professional goal is to provide connection, healing, and insight during each of our encounters, With a passion for attachment and relational models, I have training, expertise and experience in providing counseling and psychotherapy for the following types of concerns/struggles: Women's Concerns, Emerging Adults, Relationship Strain, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Substance Use, Personality Traits and/or Disorders, Divorce, Infidelity, Boundaries, Grief and Loss, Career Concerns, Assertiveness Training, & Life Adjustments. I also offer individual, group and family intensives for connection, insight and deeper healing.
(469) 405-2856 View (469) 405-2856
Photo of Lindsey Southall, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kaufman, TX
Lindsey Southall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Southlake, TX 76092
depression and bipolar), Anxiety Struggles, Addiction, Relationship Concerns, and General Life Stresses.
Modern life can be very stressful. Many people find themselves struggling to cope with stress, career problems, depression, anxiety, and relationship problems. I specialize in working with individuals, families, and groups to help people cope with problems during various life stages.
depression and bipolar), Anxiety Struggles, Addiction, Relationship Concerns, and General Life Stresses.
Modern life can be very stressful. Many people find themselves struggling to cope with stress, career problems, depression, anxiety, and relationship problems. I specialize in working with individuals, families, and groups to help people cope with problems during various life stages.
(817) 330-8664 View (817) 330-8664
Photo of Erica Sewell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kaufman, TX
Erica Sewell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, RPT, CAS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75252
My specialty areas include Autism Spectrum Disorder, Down Syndrome/Intellectual Disabilities, Rare Genetic Disorders, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Chronic Medical Conditions, ADHD, Grief, Self-Esteem, and Life Transitions.
In celebration of each individual's strengths and unique qualities, I offer an individualized approach that is customized to the needs of each client. I believe that with support, guidance, compassion, and understanding people have the ability to not only find solutions to their challenges, but the strength to make positive changes. I am passionate about working with children, teens, adults, and families and offer play therapy, activity therapy, expressive arts, and/or traditional talk therapy. I practice from a neurodiversity affirming lens where we focus on empowerment and appreciating everyone's unique differences.
My specialty areas include Autism Spectrum Disorder, Down Syndrome/Intellectual Disabilities, Rare Genetic Disorders, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Chronic Medical Conditions, ADHD, Grief, Self-Esteem, and Life Transitions.
In celebration of each individual's strengths and unique qualities, I offer an individualized approach that is customized to the needs of each client. I believe that with support, guidance, compassion, and understanding people have the ability to not only find solutions to their challenges, but the strength to make positive changes. I am passionate about working with children, teens, adults, and families and offer play therapy, activity therapy, expressive arts, and/or traditional talk therapy. I practice from a neurodiversity affirming lens where we focus on empowerment and appreciating everyone's unique differences.
(469) 871-6316 View (469) 871-6316
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.