Photo of Way To Go Mental Health, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in La Vernia, TX
Way To Go Mental Health, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
La Vernia, TX 78121
Life can be difficult, full of challenges that are hard to manage, and just plain chaotic. Whatever the reason you are seeking therapy, I am happy to be the one to help. I work hard to ensure a comfortable atmosphere and connect with you using evidence-based practices to help you process and navigate your difficulties. With me you can expect to be heard, understood, and headed back to a life you enjoy living.
Life can be difficult, full of challenges that are hard to manage, and just plain chaotic. Whatever the reason you are seeking therapy, I am happy to be the one to help. I work hard to ensure a comfortable atmosphere and connect with you using evidence-based practices to help you process and navigate your difficulties. With me you can expect to be heard, understood, and headed back to a life you enjoy living.
(830) 355-0874 View (830) 355-0874
Photo of Kassandra Thompson Double T Counseling, PLLC , Licensed Professional Counselor in La Vernia, TX
Kassandra Thompson Double T Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Vernia, TX 78121
Please email if you are interested in services, I am better able to reply - I provide counseling to individuals, teens, and families in many areas, such as: depression, anxiety, anger, PTSD and trauma, self-esteem, and teen identity, as well as a variety of other life issues and disorders. I further have a passion for assisting with divorce and positive co-parenting relationships. If you need guidance through past or present, I can assist you in gaining insight and awareness, mindfulness, communication, and boundaries, among many other tools that help you navigate through challenging times.
Please email if you are interested in services, I am better able to reply - I provide counseling to individuals, teens, and families in many areas, such as: depression, anxiety, anger, PTSD and trauma, self-esteem, and teen identity, as well as a variety of other life issues and disorders. I further have a passion for assisting with divorce and positive co-parenting relationships. If you need guidance through past or present, I can assist you in gaining insight and awareness, mindfulness, communication, and boundaries, among many other tools that help you navigate through challenging times.
(210) 796-7680 View (210) 796-7680
Photo of M. Diane Way, Licensed Professional Counselor in La Vernia, TX
M. Diane Way
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LMFT, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
La Vernia, TX 78121
I love what I do! I am a compassionate, nonjudgmental, and caring individual who has gone through painful life experiences myself and have likewise experienced the freedom and peace of healing. I am an experienced, skillful clinician who treats adults, adolescents, and children who are experiencing anxiety, insecurity, nightmares, depression, emotional reactions to trauma, stress, grief, guilt, and/or anger. I diagnose and treat children's' issues including ADHD, separation anxiety, divorce issues, anxiety, depressive disorders, autistic spectrum disorders, behavioral, social, school, or academic problems. I teach parents to implement structure & behavioral techniques that really work!
I love what I do! I am a compassionate, nonjudgmental, and caring individual who has gone through painful life experiences myself and have likewise experienced the freedom and peace of healing. I am an experienced, skillful clinician who treats adults, adolescents, and children who are experiencing anxiety, insecurity, nightmares, depression, emotional reactions to trauma, stress, grief, guilt, and/or anger. I diagnose and treat children's' issues including ADHD, separation anxiety, divorce issues, anxiety, depressive disorders, autistic spectrum disorders, behavioral, social, school, or academic problems. I teach parents to implement structure & behavioral techniques that really work!
(830) 448-0508 View (830) 448-0508
Photo of New Directions Counseling Services, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in La Vernia, TX
New Directions Counseling Services, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LSOTP
Verified Verified
La Vernia, TX 78121
Deciding to seek counseling is difficult, but it is the first step towards making positive changes in your life. It is a means to develop insight that can then help you grow in new, positive ways. As a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Sex Offender Treatment Provider, I can help guide you towards the resolution of problems of an emotional or interpersonal nature. I can assist you towards gaining empowerment over your life and your decisions in a safe, therapeutic and supportive atmosphere.
Deciding to seek counseling is difficult, but it is the first step towards making positive changes in your life. It is a means to develop insight that can then help you grow in new, positive ways. As a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Sex Offender Treatment Provider, I can help guide you towards the resolution of problems of an emotional or interpersonal nature. I can assist you towards gaining empowerment over your life and your decisions in a safe, therapeutic and supportive atmosphere.
(830) 637-7593 View (830) 637-7593
Photo of Mayra Alejandra Nieto, Licensed Professional Counselor in La Vernia, TX
Mayra Alejandra Nieto
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
La Vernia, TX 78121  (Online Only)
I will be sincere, genuine and compassionate as I listen to your needs and help guide you through the storm. I have 10 plus years of experience serving children, teens and adults who had or were suffering from trauma at all levels; daily and chronic stress; mental health disorders, spiritual warfare, anger, anxiety, grief, depression and more. I use a variety of techniques to help you navigate life and not only survive it but have growth from any challenge. I enjoy using art, play, narrative, music, spiritual and holistic techniques. interventions.
I will be sincere, genuine and compassionate as I listen to your needs and help guide you through the storm. I have 10 plus years of experience serving children, teens and adults who had or were suffering from trauma at all levels; daily and chronic stress; mental health disorders, spiritual warfare, anger, anxiety, grief, depression and more. I use a variety of techniques to help you navigate life and not only survive it but have growth from any challenge. I enjoy using art, play, narrative, music, spiritual and holistic techniques. interventions.
(956) 398-5955 View (956) 398-5955
Photo of Nichole Sieracki, Psychologist in La Vernia, TX
Nichole Sieracki
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
La Vernia, TX 78121
Searching for a mental health provider with compassion and experience? I have 15 years of experience treating mental illness in individuals within the inpatient and outpatient settings. Psychiatric symptoms I have treated include depressions, anxieties, mania, psychoses, traumas, grief, chronic physical illnesses and pain, those related to head injuries, behavior disturbances, and problems in relationships. My treatment approaches include supportive therapy, solution-focused therapy, existential therapy, cognitive behavior therapy, trauma-focused therapy, grief therapy, brief strategic family therapy, and psychoeducation.
Searching for a mental health provider with compassion and experience? I have 15 years of experience treating mental illness in individuals within the inpatient and outpatient settings. Psychiatric symptoms I have treated include depressions, anxieties, mania, psychoses, traumas, grief, chronic physical illnesses and pain, those related to head injuries, behavior disturbances, and problems in relationships. My treatment approaches include supportive therapy, solution-focused therapy, existential therapy, cognitive behavior therapy, trauma-focused therapy, grief therapy, brief strategic family therapy, and psychoeducation.
(830) 498-0931 View (830) 498-0931

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Charlotte M Taber, Licensed Professional Counselor in La Vernia, TX
Charlotte M Taber
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Adkins, TX 78101
People who seek therapy are the sanest of us all. They look around at their lives and they realize that they want something better and they have the courage to go out and get it.
People who seek therapy are the sanest of us all. They look around at their lives and they realize that they want something better and they have the courage to go out and get it.
(830) 357-7463 View (830) 357-7463

Online Therapists

Photo of Stephanie Pinson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in La Vernia, TX
Stephanie Pinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kyle, TX 78640
Waitlist for new clients
I have experience working with individuals with a variety of life struggles including anxiety, depression, increased stress, PTSD and trauma, bipolar disorder, and grief and loss.
Perhaps you've been struggling with painful emotions, communicating in your relationships, managing stress and anxiety, or working through previous painful experiences. I know how difficult life can feel and I believe in providing a supportive and nonjudgmental therapeutic environment in which we can collaboratively work to solve problems, improve coping skills, and find you the support you need. I also offer specialized treatment for individuals who experience painful emotions related to adverse life experiences through EMDR.
I have experience working with individuals with a variety of life struggles including anxiety, depression, increased stress, PTSD and trauma, bipolar disorder, and grief and loss.
Perhaps you've been struggling with painful emotions, communicating in your relationships, managing stress and anxiety, or working through previous painful experiences. I know how difficult life can feel and I believe in providing a supportive and nonjudgmental therapeutic environment in which we can collaboratively work to solve problems, improve coping skills, and find you the support you need. I also offer specialized treatment for individuals who experience painful emotions related to adverse life experiences through EMDR.
(512) 862-7515 View (512) 862-7515
Photo of Melissa Herrin Isaacks, Licensed Professional Counselor in La Vernia, TX
Melissa Herrin Isaacks
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
The Woodlands, TX 77380
Melissa Isaacks is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who has over 3 years of experience treating a wide range of mental illnesses, including ADHD, generalized anxiety disorder, depression, grief, loss, anger management, transitional disorder, bipolar disorder, and schizoaffective disorder. She takes great care to treat children, adolescents, adults, and geriatric clients with a warm and caring attitude. Melissa graduated from Texas Tech University with her Bachelor's degree in psychology and a Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling.
Melissa Isaacks is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who has over 3 years of experience treating a wide range of mental illnesses, including ADHD, generalized anxiety disorder, depression, grief, loss, anger management, transitional disorder, bipolar disorder, and schizoaffective disorder. She takes great care to treat children, adolescents, adults, and geriatric clients with a warm and caring attitude. Melissa graduated from Texas Tech University with her Bachelor's degree in psychology and a Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling.
(339) 218-3090 View (339) 218-3090
Photo of Kimberly Thomas, Licensed Professional Counselor in La Vernia, TX
Kimberly Thomas
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Helotes, TX 78023  (Online Only)
I have also spent many hours working with adult and teen clients struggling with parenting/family issues, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, bipolar, anger management, and more!.
I recognize that you are the expert on you. My desire is to work collaboratively with you to enable you to reach your identified goals. If you are worried you can't afford counseling, please discuss your concerns with me. I will work with you as much as possible!
I have also spent many hours working with adult and teen clients struggling with parenting/family issues, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, bipolar, anger management, and more!.
I recognize that you are the expert on you. My desire is to work collaboratively with you to enable you to reach your identified goals. If you are worried you can't afford counseling, please discuss your concerns with me. I will work with you as much as possible!
(325) 240-5605 View (325) 240-5605
Photo of Margaret Bean, Marriage & Family Therapist in La Vernia, TX
Margaret Bean
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78230  (Online Only)
My working experiences have offered me a wide range of opportunities to counsel couples, families, children, adolescents, and adults. I have knowledge in many areas including trauma, PTSD, depression, bipolar, schizophrenia, anxiety, self-esteem, multigenerational challenges, sexual assault, human trafficking, life transitions, and grief. experience working with members of the queer identity through all stages of their identity exploration and acceptance. I am also informed in various relationship practices including monogamous and alternative styles such as polyamory, kink, long-distance, and open relationships.
My working experiences have offered me a wide range of opportunities to counsel couples, families, children, adolescents, and adults. I have knowledge in many areas including trauma, PTSD, depression, bipolar, schizophrenia, anxiety, self-esteem, multigenerational challenges, sexual assault, human trafficking, life transitions, and grief. experience working with members of the queer identity through all stages of their identity exploration and acceptance. I am also informed in various relationship practices including monogamous and alternative styles such as polyamory, kink, long-distance, and open relationships.
(210) 941-4997 View (210) 941-4997
Photo of Maria Fishel, Psychologist in La Vernia, TX
Maria Fishel
Psychologist, PhD, LSSP
Verified Verified
Lakeway, TX 78734
While I work on common issues, such as depression (bipolar and unipolar), anxiety, and life transitions, I also specialize in neurodiverse populations, such as Autism Spectrum Disorders (including Asperger's Syndrome) and ADD/ADHD.
Overwhelmed? Tired of the same old patterns in your life? Doubting yourself or your decisions? Lost hope? Feeling disconnected from others and your goals? Let me be your guide through life's intersections. I believe we all can benefit from professional support at some point in our lives. Why not start now? My approach is supportive, empathetic, direct, and collaborative. I tailor my counseling to your needs. I welcome traditional and nontraditional individuals, and anyone who feels marginalized, isolated, or undervalued. Together, we'll work on building connections and finding solutions, one step at a time.
While I work on common issues, such as depression (bipolar and unipolar), anxiety, and life transitions, I also specialize in neurodiverse populations, such as Autism Spectrum Disorders (including Asperger's Syndrome) and ADD/ADHD.
Overwhelmed? Tired of the same old patterns in your life? Doubting yourself or your decisions? Lost hope? Feeling disconnected from others and your goals? Let me be your guide through life's intersections. I believe we all can benefit from professional support at some point in our lives. Why not start now? My approach is supportive, empathetic, direct, and collaborative. I tailor my counseling to your needs. I welcome traditional and nontraditional individuals, and anyone who feels marginalized, isolated, or undervalued. Together, we'll work on building connections and finding solutions, one step at a time.
(512) 649-2180 View (512) 649-2180
Photo of Tiffany Begley, Licensed Professional Counselor in La Vernia, TX
Tiffany Begley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78717
Anxiety is annoying. Depression is annoying. It doesn't have to be. Trauma is overwhelming. You can learn to lessen and live with these struggles. Take control. The power is in your hands. It's a journey... or any other cliche saying that works in therapy. It's all welcome here. I work with clients diagnosed with a variety of mental health disorders including psychosis, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder. I specialize in military and military family struggles. I also have experience working with law enforcement and other first responders.
Anxiety is annoying. Depression is annoying. It doesn't have to be. Trauma is overwhelming. You can learn to lessen and live with these struggles. Take control. The power is in your hands. It's a journey... or any other cliche saying that works in therapy. It's all welcome here. I work with clients diagnosed with a variety of mental health disorders including psychosis, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder. I specialize in military and military family struggles. I also have experience working with law enforcement and other first responders.
(512) 877-7587 View (512) 877-7587
Photo of Anne Marie Jennings, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in La Vernia, TX
Anne Marie Jennings
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78746
My specialties include depression, anxiety, marital counseling, parent-child relationships, families, bipolar disorder, and anger management.
I approach therapy as a partnership with my clients in which you are the ultimate decision maker and I work with you to clear away obstacles and identify opportunities. My clients have successfully overcome or managed depression, anxiety, OCD, trauma, marital stress, parent-child difficulties, domestic violence, substance abuse, bipolar disorder, and anger issues.
My specialties include depression, anxiety, marital counseling, parent-child relationships, families, bipolar disorder, and anger management.
I approach therapy as a partnership with my clients in which you are the ultimate decision maker and I work with you to clear away obstacles and identify opportunities. My clients have successfully overcome or managed depression, anxiety, OCD, trauma, marital stress, parent-child difficulties, domestic violence, substance abuse, bipolar disorder, and anger issues.
(512) 430-4524 View (512) 430-4524
Photo of Eric Frodsham, Licensed Professional Counselor in La Vernia, TX
Eric Frodsham
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Elgin, TX 78621  (Online Only)
Anxiety, Relationship/Family issues, Grief, Parenting, Anger management, Self esteem, Bipolar disorder, ADHD, Abandonment, Aging Issues, Attachment Issues, Autism/Asperger, Addiction, Depression, Military, Trauma, Career Issues, Schizophrenia, PTSD, Process addiction (porn, exercise, gambling), Self-Love, TBI, Mood Disorders, Domestic Violence, Codependency.
I am licensed in Texas with 5 years of professional counseling experience. I like to get to know my clients and understand the barriers they are experiencing and the outcomes they wish to manifest in their lives. I listen carefully about their experiences and look to help find positive solutions to their different life challenges. I am open to exploring any topics without passing judgement and implementing the most person-centered techniques that will lead to positive outcomes.
Anxiety, Relationship/Family issues, Grief, Parenting, Anger management, Self esteem, Bipolar disorder, ADHD, Abandonment, Aging Issues, Attachment Issues, Autism/Asperger, Addiction, Depression, Military, Trauma, Career Issues, Schizophrenia, PTSD, Process addiction (porn, exercise, gambling), Self-Love, TBI, Mood Disorders, Domestic Violence, Codependency.
I am licensed in Texas with 5 years of professional counseling experience. I like to get to know my clients and understand the barriers they are experiencing and the outcomes they wish to manifest in their lives. I listen carefully about their experiences and look to help find positive solutions to their different life challenges. I am open to exploring any topics without passing judgement and implementing the most person-centered techniques that will lead to positive outcomes.
(512) 710-2692 View (512) 710-2692
Photo of Stephanie A Jasso, Licensed Professional Counselor in La Vernia, TX
Stephanie A Jasso
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78258
Welcome! As a Clinical Mental Health Counselor with a diverse background, I work with Children, Adolescents, Adults, Veterans, and Couples, specializing in counseling approaches unique to the individual's circumstance. My experience has been assisting clients with difficulties dealing with Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Mood Disorders, Psychosis, Substance Abuse, Trauma, and Grief & Loss to help build essential coping skills. I believe in the positive outcomes of counseling as having the power to heal, strengthen, and support an individual as they gain valuable tools to navigate their lives and relationships.
Welcome! As a Clinical Mental Health Counselor with a diverse background, I work with Children, Adolescents, Adults, Veterans, and Couples, specializing in counseling approaches unique to the individual's circumstance. My experience has been assisting clients with difficulties dealing with Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Mood Disorders, Psychosis, Substance Abuse, Trauma, and Grief & Loss to help build essential coping skills. I believe in the positive outcomes of counseling as having the power to heal, strengthen, and support an individual as they gain valuable tools to navigate their lives and relationships.
(210) 794-7606 View (210) 794-7606
Photo of Cara Haynie-Peña, Licensed Professional Counselor in La Vernia, 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 Edward (Chip) Flatow, Licensed Professional Counselor in La Vernia, TX
Edward (Chip) Flatow
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CtH
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78230
I have been working with people experiencing PTSD, Depression/Anxiety. Drug Addiction, Bipolar Disorder, and Family issues... My general position is that our emotions serve a purpose, (like a check engine light on the dashboard of a car). After we check and repair the engine, the light goes out... If the issue remains unchecked and unrepaired, the light gets stronger and more insistent... I will work hand-in-hand with Psychiatrists, Psychologists, and MD's, if needed. However, I believe that the use of meds is only one step on the road to recovery.
I have been working with people experiencing PTSD, Depression/Anxiety. Drug Addiction, Bipolar Disorder, and Family issues... My general position is that our emotions serve a purpose, (like a check engine light on the dashboard of a car). After we check and repair the engine, the light goes out... If the issue remains unchecked and unrepaired, the light gets stronger and more insistent... I will work hand-in-hand with Psychiatrists, Psychologists, and MD's, if needed. However, I believe that the use of meds is only one step on the road to recovery.
(210) 714-2601 View (210) 714-2601
Photo of Dr. Temora P. Gray, Psychologist in La Vernia, TX
Dr. Temora P. Gray
Psychologist, PhD, LBA
Verified Verified
Universal City, TX 78148
Experienced clinical psychologist providing psychological and applied behavior analysis services to clients diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder and psychiatric disorders such as depression, anxiety, bipolar, and PTSD. I design treatment for autism based on the results of a functional assessment and create person-centered target goals. I create skill-based interventions that are socially valid to the patient. Techniques are based on the principles of applied behavior analysis with proven results. I provide various psychological services to patients ages 16 through 55.
Experienced clinical psychologist providing psychological and applied behavior analysis services to clients diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder and psychiatric disorders such as depression, anxiety, bipolar, and PTSD. I design treatment for autism based on the results of a functional assessment and create person-centered target goals. I create skill-based interventions that are socially valid to the patient. Techniques are based on the principles of applied behavior analysis with proven results. I provide various psychological services to patients ages 16 through 55.
(210) 903-8221 View (210) 903-8221
Photo of Arthur Gaylian Kirby II, Licensed Professional Counselor in La Vernia, TX
Arthur Gaylian Kirby II
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS MDIV, LPC(S)
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78229
Life experience has taught me to understand mental illness, bipolar mood disorder, other mood disorders, personality disorders, abuse victims of multiple sources, attachment disorders, sick and healthy religion and spiritually.
My job is to help people live happier lives. My office is a continuing education service for all who enter. The goal for me, and hopefully for the person I am working with, is to learn from each other through the change agent of conversation. After 40 years of experience, my belief is that humans never really change until what they have done is working anymore, is broken, and/or gone. Thus change begins with loss, some small and some life ending. At these moments of transition, learning how to let go is the lesson, whether we like it or not. Whatever big change you are going through, positive or negative begins with an ending.
Life experience has taught me to understand mental illness, bipolar mood disorder, other mood disorders, personality disorders, abuse victims of multiple sources, attachment disorders, sick and healthy religion and spiritually.
My job is to help people live happier lives. My office is a continuing education service for all who enter. The goal for me, and hopefully for the person I am working with, is to learn from each other through the change agent of conversation. After 40 years of experience, my belief is that humans never really change until what they have done is working anymore, is broken, and/or gone. Thus change begins with loss, some small and some life ending. At these moments of transition, learning how to let go is the lesson, whether we like it or not. Whatever big change you are going through, positive or negative begins with an ending.
(210) 664-4392 View (210) 664-4392
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.