Photo of John Michael Murray, Marriage & Family Therapist in Lake Jackson, TX
John Michael Murray
Marriage & Family Therapist, JD, MS, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
Lake Jackson, TX 77566
I therefore specialize in individual as well as relationship counseling to address issues arrising out of: - Depression, anxiety, stress, grief and loss; divorce; parenting; stepfamiles; adolesents; self-esteem; abuse; bipolar; anger; ad/hd.
You are one-of-a-kind. And so, beginning with our first meeting, I will be sure that I clearly understand you and your unique needs. Then, as your therapist, I will work to help you establish and achieve the goals that are immportant to you. Effective psychotherapy supports the emotional healing that leads to wellbeing. My approach includes what I call "relational reflective listening and speaking". It's a process that developes and nurtures the deep respect I have for my patients. In our conversations you and I together will discover new possibilities, new hope that heals the heart.
I therefore specialize in individual as well as relationship counseling to address issues arrising out of: - Depression, anxiety, stress, grief and loss; divorce; parenting; stepfamiles; adolesents; self-esteem; abuse; bipolar; anger; ad/hd.
You are one-of-a-kind. And so, beginning with our first meeting, I will be sure that I clearly understand you and your unique needs. Then, as your therapist, I will work to help you establish and achieve the goals that are immportant to you. Effective psychotherapy supports the emotional healing that leads to wellbeing. My approach includes what I call "relational reflective listening and speaking". It's a process that developes and nurtures the deep respect I have for my patients. In our conversations you and I together will discover new possibilities, new hope that heals the heart.
(832) 463-5602 View (832) 463-5602
Photo of Ricky Ertell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lake Jackson, TX
Ricky Ertell
Licensed Professional Counselor, Ed D, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Lake Jackson, TX 77566
In person and online appointments available. Online appointments go to our website and clink on the link for your provider to access your provider at you scheduled appointment time. I care about all my patients and want to help you any way I can. I have learned a variety of modalities to better help with all issues. Give me a call. I will work to ensure you become the individual you want to become!
In person and online appointments available. Online appointments go to our website and clink on the link for your provider to access your provider at you scheduled appointment time. I care about all my patients and want to help you any way I can. I have learned a variety of modalities to better help with all issues. Give me a call. I will work to ensure you become the individual you want to become!
(832) 637-8449 View (832) 637-8449
Photo of Steve Sutherland, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lake Jackson, TX
Steve Sutherland
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Lake Jackson, TX 77566
As a professional counselor licensed in 2001 and in private practice since 2003, I have enjoyed working with clients seeking healthy changes in their lives. I find that many clients already know the answers to their own questions and benefit most from collaboration on breaking through limiting beliefs and behaviors. While the decision to seek counseling can be difficult and stressful, many report that my practical, down-to-earth approach to therapy is very comforting. I provide services to adolescents and adults in individual, couples, or family settings. I will also be offering anger management group therapy in the near future.
As a professional counselor licensed in 2001 and in private practice since 2003, I have enjoyed working with clients seeking healthy changes in their lives. I find that many clients already know the answers to their own questions and benefit most from collaboration on breaking through limiting beliefs and behaviors. While the decision to seek counseling can be difficult and stressful, many report that my practical, down-to-earth approach to therapy is very comforting. I provide services to adolescents and adults in individual, couples, or family settings. I will also be offering anger management group therapy in the near future.
(281) 394-0427 View (281) 394-0427
Photo of Leslie Hagemeier, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lake Jackson, TX
Leslie Hagemeier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Jackson, TX 77566
My goal is to meet the mental health needs of children, adults, and families in our community by equipping them with the tools they need to improve their lives and empower the changes they wish to see. Having worked in child welfare for the past 25 years, I have become interested in the impact that trauma has on a person's' brain and their ability to cope with adversity in their lives. I hope to make a difference in our community through the healing of individuals during their most difficult times with grace and understanding of their needs and promoting healing, a positive sense of self-worth, and reducing depression and anxiety.
My goal is to meet the mental health needs of children, adults, and families in our community by equipping them with the tools they need to improve their lives and empower the changes they wish to see. Having worked in child welfare for the past 25 years, I have become interested in the impact that trauma has on a person's' brain and their ability to cope with adversity in their lives. I hope to make a difference in our community through the healing of individuals during their most difficult times with grace and understanding of their needs and promoting healing, a positive sense of self-worth, and reducing depression and anxiety.
(979) 481-8744 View (979) 481-8744
Photo of Sharon Treadgold, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lake Jackson, TX
Sharon Treadgold
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Lake Jackson, TX 77566
Having served children and families through the child welfare system for nearly 20 years, I am very interested in the impact trauma has on the brain and enjoy my work with children and adolescents as well as adults who have experienced chronic or significant trauma including victims of sex trafficking. We all deserve to feel safe with minimal anxiety in our day-to-day lives. By helping promote a positive sense of self and self-esteem, feelings of anxiety and worry can be reduced while increasing clients' sense of meaning and purpose in life.
Having served children and families through the child welfare system for nearly 20 years, I am very interested in the impact trauma has on the brain and enjoy my work with children and adolescents as well as adults who have experienced chronic or significant trauma including victims of sex trafficking. We all deserve to feel safe with minimal anxiety in our day-to-day lives. By helping promote a positive sense of self and self-esteem, feelings of anxiety and worry can be reduced while increasing clients' sense of meaning and purpose in life.
(979) 657-6268 View (979) 657-6268
Photo of Steffanie R Thompson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lake Jackson, TX
Steffanie R Thompson
Licensed Professional Counselor, M ED, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
Lake Jackson, TX 77566
Life isn’t always easy. Sometimes, even the strongest people amongst us need a little bit of help to work through some of life’s more challenging problems. Everyone has battles to fight and hurdles to overcome at some point. Whether you struggle with anxiety, depression, substance abuse, or any other issue, you should know that there is hope for a better tomorrow. You might be initially hesitant to seek out help and support for personal matters, but when you do, you will feel confident that you are taking a courageous first step towards getting to a better place and being a better you.
Life isn’t always easy. Sometimes, even the strongest people amongst us need a little bit of help to work through some of life’s more challenging problems. Everyone has battles to fight and hurdles to overcome at some point. Whether you struggle with anxiety, depression, substance abuse, or any other issue, you should know that there is hope for a better tomorrow. You might be initially hesitant to seek out help and support for personal matters, but when you do, you will feel confident that you are taking a courageous first step towards getting to a better place and being a better you.
(979) 271-5302 View (979) 271-5302
Photo of Chandler Garza (She-Her), Licensed Professional Counselor in Lake Jackson, TX
Chandler Garza (She-Her)
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Jackson, TX 77566  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
**very limited availability- Hello there! I’m Chandler, a Trauma-Informed and CBT-oriented psychotherapist. In therapy, my priority is fostering a therapeutic connection that feels safe and open. My mission is to allow space for my clients to explore themselves with curiosity and security. My greatest joy as a therapist is walking with my clients as they uncover a deeper understanding of themselves. Experiencing these moments and the power behind them is a special honor that brings passion to my work.
**very limited availability- Hello there! I’m Chandler, a Trauma-Informed and CBT-oriented psychotherapist. In therapy, my priority is fostering a therapeutic connection that feels safe and open. My mission is to allow space for my clients to explore themselves with curiosity and security. My greatest joy as a therapist is walking with my clients as they uncover a deeper understanding of themselves. Experiencing these moments and the power behind them is a special honor that brings passion to my work.
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Online Therapists

Photo of FYD Therapy PLLC/Find Your Destiny Counseling , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lake Jackson, TX
FYD Therapy PLLC/Find Your Destiny Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77068
Hello, my name is LaSonia Ashley and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have over 10 years of experience in mental and behavioral health, and I am known for my ability to reach those who cannot be reached. I am empathetic and skillful in helping clients with various hardships and lows in life. Anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorders, traumas, self-harm and emotional/behavioral difficulties are all issues that I am able to help you manage.
Hello, my name is LaSonia Ashley and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have over 10 years of experience in mental and behavioral health, and I am known for my ability to reach those who cannot be reached. I am empathetic and skillful in helping clients with various hardships and lows in life. Anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorders, traumas, self-harm and emotional/behavioral difficulties are all issues that I am able to help you manage.
(281) 609-7922 View (281) 609-7922
Photo of Meg Bellows, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lake Jackson, TX
Meg Bellows
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S, NCC, CART, BCPC
Verified Verified
Spring, TX 77388
My passion is treating clients who have endured trauma. I'm trained in EMDR. I combine EMDR with narrative therapy to help clients resolve and reprocess the traumatic event. I love working with clients who suffer from depression, bipolar, and personality disorders. I also work with couples and families who are in crisis. I am also endorsed by the American Psychotherapy Association as a Board Certified Professional Counselor.
My passion is treating clients who have endured trauma. I'm trained in EMDR. I combine EMDR with narrative therapy to help clients resolve and reprocess the traumatic event. I love working with clients who suffer from depression, bipolar, and personality disorders. I also work with couples and families who are in crisis. I am also endorsed by the American Psychotherapy Association as a Board Certified Professional Counselor.
(561) 935-3543 View (561) 935-3543
Photo of Shalondra Moore in Lake Jackson, TX
Shalondra Moore
LPC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77032
, depression, bipolar), devastating losses (e.
No matter how we slice it…pain sucks. Emotional pain can impact the way we live our best, meaningful life sometimes. It can complicate relationships, careers, symptoms, and even how we see the world. Do you feel like your life has been difficult to manage lately? I understand what you are feeling: the sense of overwhelming anxiety, the roller coaster of emotions, the burden of trying to take these challenges on alone, the fear or uncertainty of asking for help. I can help with that.
, depression, bipolar), devastating losses (e.
No matter how we slice it…pain sucks. Emotional pain can impact the way we live our best, meaningful life sometimes. It can complicate relationships, careers, symptoms, and even how we see the world. Do you feel like your life has been difficult to manage lately? I understand what you are feeling: the sense of overwhelming anxiety, the roller coaster of emotions, the burden of trying to take these challenges on alone, the fear or uncertainty of asking for help. I can help with that.
(346) 384-8998 View (346) 384-8998
Photo of Anetra R Williams, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lake Jackson, TX
Anetra R Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77058
Having worked with clients with PTSD as well as individuals who struggle with bipolar, depression, anxiety, and marital conflicts, I have been able to see the positive outcome of lives that have been transformed by doing the work necessary to change irrational thoughts into positive thinking.
When you hear " Lifestyle Transitions" what comes to mind? The concept speaks for itself. When creating a safe space, the goal is to you transition your new being and your new lifestyle using effective psychological treatments such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) which has been used to treat an array of issues such as anxiety, depression, marital problems, as well as severe mental illness along with DBT and other modalities. As a therapist, I have empathy for clients who are faced with the day to day struggles of feeling overwhelmed and uncertain on how to navigate life.
Having worked with clients with PTSD as well as individuals who struggle with bipolar, depression, anxiety, and marital conflicts, I have been able to see the positive outcome of lives that have been transformed by doing the work necessary to change irrational thoughts into positive thinking.
When you hear " Lifestyle Transitions" what comes to mind? The concept speaks for itself. When creating a safe space, the goal is to you transition your new being and your new lifestyle using effective psychological treatments such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) which has been used to treat an array of issues such as anxiety, depression, marital problems, as well as severe mental illness along with DBT and other modalities. As a therapist, I have empathy for clients who are faced with the day to day struggles of feeling overwhelmed and uncertain on how to navigate life.
(832) 447-6725 View (832) 447-6725
Photo of Lauren Ziff, Licensed Master Social Worker in Lake Jackson, TX
Lauren Ziff
Licensed Master Social Worker, MA, LMSW
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77006
I enjoy working with adults who come from a variety of backgrounds and have different needs for support and change in their life. Interests include but are not limited to Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, Trauma and Grief.
I enjoy working with adults who come from a variety of backgrounds and have different needs for support and change in their life. Interests include but are not limited to Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, Trauma and Grief.
(832) 501-3988 View (832) 501-3988
Photo of Jamie Taylor, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lake Jackson, TX
Jamie Taylor
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Rosenberg, TX 77469  (Online Only)
I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults with various diagnoses including Eating Disorders, Anxiety, ADHD, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Depression, Bipolar, Psychosis, Borderline Personality Disorder, Schizoaffective Disorder, as well as general stressors and everyday anxieties.
I started my career in mental health as a mental health technician for PEAK Behavioral Hospital in 2006. I then became a Qualified Mental Health Professional/Case Manager for Texana Center for 8 years in 2007. I then became a behavioral health counselor at Eating Recovery Center-Houston with clients struggling with various eating disorders, followed by becoming a therapist for two different PHP/IOP programs, one for adults and the other for adolescents. Finally, I have experience working for a private practice and now my own private practice with clients who struggle with stress, domestic violence, parenting, family conflict, etc.
I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults with various diagnoses including Eating Disorders, Anxiety, ADHD, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Depression, Bipolar, Psychosis, Borderline Personality Disorder, Schizoaffective Disorder, as well as general stressors and everyday anxieties.
I started my career in mental health as a mental health technician for PEAK Behavioral Hospital in 2006. I then became a Qualified Mental Health Professional/Case Manager for Texana Center for 8 years in 2007. I then became a behavioral health counselor at Eating Recovery Center-Houston with clients struggling with various eating disorders, followed by becoming a therapist for two different PHP/IOP programs, one for adults and the other for adolescents. Finally, I have experience working for a private practice and now my own private practice with clients who struggle with stress, domestic violence, parenting, family conflict, etc.
(915) 221-2597 View (915) 221-2597
Photo of Corey D Paulson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lake Jackson, TX
Corey D Paulson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC-S
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77024
His other specialties include treating depression and bipolar disorder, marriage and family counseling, life coaching, and grief therapy.
Corey's therapeutic approach is goal driven and works to identify where his client wishes to grow and then, through careful collaboration, determine how it can be achieved. He works primarily with Reality Therapy, which emphasizes personal control of self, the ability for one to meet their needs in a healthy manner, and the acceptance that the actions one chooses are what makes up one's behavior. He is trained in EMDR and hypnosis and applies both in working with PTSD, trauma, anxiety, and for pain management from physical illness.
His other specialties include treating depression and bipolar disorder, marriage and family counseling, life coaching, and grief therapy.
Corey's therapeutic approach is goal driven and works to identify where his client wishes to grow and then, through careful collaboration, determine how it can be achieved. He works primarily with Reality Therapy, which emphasizes personal control of self, the ability for one to meet their needs in a healthy manner, and the acceptance that the actions one chooses are what makes up one's behavior. He is trained in EMDR and hypnosis and applies both in working with PTSD, trauma, anxiety, and for pain management from physical illness.
(832) 234-9871 View (832) 234-9871
Photo of Dr. Roger D. Vazquez, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lake Jackson, TX
Dr. Roger D. Vazquez
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
Sugar Land, TX 77478
I have experience working with a wide variety of life problems and mental health disorders, but my primary interests include depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), academic issues, panic/phobias, anger management, addiction, couples, marriage, and family relationship issues.
I have experience working with a wide variety of life problems and mental health disorders, but my primary interests include depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), academic issues, panic/phobias, anger management, addiction, couples, marriage, and family relationship issues.
(281) 666-9607 View (281) 666-9607
Photo of Sabah Ali, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lake Jackson, TX
Sabah Ali
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77095
My name is Sabah Ali. I am a licensed professional counselor and have been practicing therapy since 2014. I have high levels of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly facing Anxiety, Depression, Relationship Issues, Stress, and Bipolar Disorder. My therapeutic approaches are Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Solution Focused Brief (SFBT), Client-Centered Therapy, Couples Therapy, and Supportive Therapy. I genuinely believe that the obstacles of your past can become the gateways that lead to new beginnings.
My name is Sabah Ali. I am a licensed professional counselor and have been practicing therapy since 2014. I have high levels of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly facing Anxiety, Depression, Relationship Issues, Stress, and Bipolar Disorder. My therapeutic approaches are Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Solution Focused Brief (SFBT), Client-Centered Therapy, Couples Therapy, and Supportive Therapy. I genuinely believe that the obstacles of your past can become the gateways that lead to new beginnings.
(254) 875-0421 View (254) 875-0421
Photo of Melissa E. Evette Garrett-Moultrie, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lake Jackson, TX
Melissa E. Evette Garrett-Moultrie
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC
Verified Verified
Spring, TX 77373  (Online Only)
I have worked with adult clients with a range of concerns: bipolar disorder, impulse control disorders, marital discord, infidelity, fertility issues, substance abuse, anxiety, depression, postpartum depression, and grief.
I specialize in child, adolescent, and adult mental health services and have practiced in a variety of clinical settings throughout my career. These settings include inpatient acute care, outpatient community-based counseling centers, and schools. My experience also includes working with multicultural and diverse populations across all age groups. I have had the opportunity to work with families who have children on the Autism Spectrum as well as children/adolescents struggling with behavioral concerns and anger management issues. I have a passion for providing psychoeducation to individuals with mental health concerns.
I have worked with adult clients with a range of concerns: bipolar disorder, impulse control disorders, marital discord, infidelity, fertility issues, substance abuse, anxiety, depression, postpartum depression, and grief.
I specialize in child, adolescent, and adult mental health services and have practiced in a variety of clinical settings throughout my career. These settings include inpatient acute care, outpatient community-based counseling centers, and schools. My experience also includes working with multicultural and diverse populations across all age groups. I have had the opportunity to work with families who have children on the Autism Spectrum as well as children/adolescents struggling with behavioral concerns and anger management issues. I have a passion for providing psychoeducation to individuals with mental health concerns.
(832) 210-2619 View (832) 210-2619
Photo of Rebecca Strick, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lake Jackson, TX
Rebecca Strick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, DCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
The Woodlands, TX 77354
Expertise developed over the years includes: couples-in-crisis, depressive disorders (including bipolar and postpartum), anxiety disorders, sexual abuse survivors, addictions, domestic abuse, divorce, grief and loss, launching young adults into independence, ADHD, trauma, infertility and health challenges (including cancer, autoimmune disorders, and stroke).
As a solution-focused therapist, I would consider it a privilege to assist you in finding specific solutions to life challenges. Clients describe me as being warm, direct, sincere, open-minded, approachable, and intelligent. I offer fresh perspectives, practical insights, life skills and coaching with occasional doses of humor and toughness as needed. Together we will identify and use your strengths to enhance your relationships and improve your life. I have over thirty-seven years of experience and welcome all clients-from those desiring personal growth to those facing severe life challenges.
Expertise developed over the years includes: couples-in-crisis, depressive disorders (including bipolar and postpartum), anxiety disorders, sexual abuse survivors, addictions, domestic abuse, divorce, grief and loss, launching young adults into independence, ADHD, trauma, infertility and health challenges (including cancer, autoimmune disorders, and stroke).
As a solution-focused therapist, I would consider it a privilege to assist you in finding specific solutions to life challenges. Clients describe me as being warm, direct, sincere, open-minded, approachable, and intelligent. I offer fresh perspectives, practical insights, life skills and coaching with occasional doses of humor and toughness as needed. Together we will identify and use your strengths to enhance your relationships and improve your life. I have over thirty-seven years of experience and welcome all clients-from those desiring personal growth to those facing severe life challenges.
(936) 307-0807 View (936) 307-0807
Photo of PC Barseegiah Therapeutic Nest, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lake Jackson, TX
PC Barseegiah Therapeutic Nest
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Cypress, TX 77433  (Online Only)
I'm a Licensed Professional Psychotherapist and I work with patients with various mental health diagnosis; Depression, Bipolar, Anxiety, and stress,grief, family counseling.
I am Maryehdiah (Mar) Giah. I am originally from Liberia, West Africa. I migrated to the United States in 1982 to pursue higher education. I have a master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling from Prairie View A&M University, Prairie View, Texas. I have a passion to help others , hence my dedication to the mental health field.
I'm a Licensed Professional Psychotherapist and I work with patients with various mental health diagnosis; Depression, Bipolar, Anxiety, and stress,grief, family counseling.
I am Maryehdiah (Mar) Giah. I am originally from Liberia, West Africa. I migrated to the United States in 1982 to pursue higher education. I have a master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling from Prairie View A&M University, Prairie View, Texas. I have a passion to help others , hence my dedication to the mental health field.
(832) 864-7834 View (832) 864-7834
Photo of Jessica Zachary, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lake Jackson, TX
Jessica Zachary
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77006
Jessica specializes in helping adults with psychiatric issues including depression, bipolar illness, anxiety disorders, addiction, and relationship issues. Jessica helps each clients to feel seen and heard in therapy, co-creating a transformational experience that undoes feelings of aloneness and suffering in their lives. She enjoys working with varied clients to first identify their goals and then work together to overcome emotional roadblocks to achieving their personal and professional happiness. Jessica can offer referals and collaborate with psychiatrists and other specialists to create a team invested in her client's growth.
Jessica specializes in helping adults with psychiatric issues including depression, bipolar illness, anxiety disorders, addiction, and relationship issues. Jessica helps each clients to feel seen and heard in therapy, co-creating a transformational experience that undoes feelings of aloneness and suffering in their lives. She enjoys working with varied clients to first identify their goals and then work together to overcome emotional roadblocks to achieving their personal and professional happiness. Jessica can offer referals and collaborate with psychiatrists and other specialists to create a team invested in her client's growth.
(832) 479-1772 View (832) 479-1772

See more therapy options for Lake Jackson

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.