Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Lamar County, TX

Photo of Kerry Adamek, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lamar County, TX
Kerry Adamek
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Paris, TX 75460
Professional experience 10yrs in practice Stress, Anxiety Addictions Family conflicts Bipolar disorder Depression Additional areas of focus: Antisocial Personality, Autism and Asperger Syndrome, Blended Family Issues, Codependency, Dependent Personality, Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder (DMDD), Divorce and Separation, Domestic Violence, Drug and Alco.
I am licensed in Texas with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, family conflicts, & bipolar disorder. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Professional experience 10yrs in practice Stress, Anxiety Addictions Family conflicts Bipolar disorder Depression Additional areas of focus: Antisocial Personality, Autism and Asperger Syndrome, Blended Family Issues, Codependency, Dependent Personality, Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder (DMDD), Divorce and Separation, Domestic Violence, Drug and Alco.
I am licensed in Texas with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, family conflicts, & bipolar disorder. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
(903) 342-8307 View (903) 342-8307
Photo of Andrea Perry, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lamar County, TX
Andrea Perry
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Paris, TX 75460
Thank you for your interest in my psychological services. My educational background includes a Masters degree in Professional Counseling, and a Doctorate (PhD) in Counselor Education and Supervision. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Paris, Texas with 10 years of experience practicing. I work with clients who are dealing with a wide range of concerns including Grief, Crisis Intervention, Trauma & Serious Illness, PTSD, Depression, Anxiety/Panic, Schizophrenia, OCD, Bipolar Disorder, Personality Disorders, family of origin concerns & exploration, & many other psychological & behavioral challenges.
Thank you for your interest in my psychological services. My educational background includes a Masters degree in Professional Counseling, and a Doctorate (PhD) in Counselor Education and Supervision. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Paris, Texas with 10 years of experience practicing. I work with clients who are dealing with a wide range of concerns including Grief, Crisis Intervention, Trauma & Serious Illness, PTSD, Depression, Anxiety/Panic, Schizophrenia, OCD, Bipolar Disorder, Personality Disorders, family of origin concerns & exploration, & many other psychological & behavioral challenges.
(430) 209-3335 View (430) 209-3335
Photo of Jennifer Durham, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lamar County, TX
Jennifer Durham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Paris, TX 75460
When life feels frustrating and out of control it can be helpful to talk with someone who understands what you are going through. I offer an environment of acceptance and commitment to healing. I work with individuals, children, teens,couples, and families. Your treatment would be specific to your needs and goals. My approach to counseling is primarily cognitive behavioral therapy, holistic, and trauma focused. I would like to offer you an opportunity for treatments that change problematic thought and behavior patterns, while building on your particular strengths. I would be honored to walk with you through this time in your life.
When life feels frustrating and out of control it can be helpful to talk with someone who understands what you are going through. I offer an environment of acceptance and commitment to healing. I work with individuals, children, teens,couples, and families. Your treatment would be specific to your needs and goals. My approach to counseling is primarily cognitive behavioral therapy, holistic, and trauma focused. I would like to offer you an opportunity for treatments that change problematic thought and behavior patterns, while building on your particular strengths. I would be honored to walk with you through this time in your life.
(903) 401-8189 View (903) 401-8189
Photo of Deborah Wall, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lamar County, TX
Deborah Wall
Licensed Professional Counselor, MBS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Paris, TX 75460  (Online Only)
Deborah Wall, LPC is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Oklahoma and Texas. Her extensive career history has focused on stabilizing and promoting personal functioning while empowering others to achieve long-term growth. As an action-oriented therapist, Deborah strives to help others resolve stressors and become the best version of themselves. This concept is evidenced by her advocation of adults, children and families to become addiction free, resolve traumas, and develop a healthy sense of self to combat life's difficulties. Additionally, she is a certified SYMBIS premarital and marital counseling facilitator.
Deborah Wall, LPC is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Oklahoma and Texas. Her extensive career history has focused on stabilizing and promoting personal functioning while empowering others to achieve long-term growth. As an action-oriented therapist, Deborah strives to help others resolve stressors and become the best version of themselves. This concept is evidenced by her advocation of adults, children and families to become addiction free, resolve traumas, and develop a healthy sense of self to combat life's difficulties. Additionally, she is a certified SYMBIS premarital and marital counseling facilitator.
(430) 205-8515 View (430) 205-8515
Photo of Jill Conway, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lamar County, TX
Jill Conway
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Paris, TX 75460
Everyone deserves someone who is dedicated to helping others in a confidential & safe environment which allows them to feel free to work through their struggles. I have a passion for guiding marriages/couples to overcome obstacles. I am committed to helping individuals with PTSD, Depression, Anxiety or Stress. My professional experience began over 10 years ago which includes schools, inpatient crisis centers & office settings . I believe the counseling process should take the whole person and their life experiences into consideration while looking at the person’s mind, body, and spirit to best fit each individuals needs.
Everyone deserves someone who is dedicated to helping others in a confidential & safe environment which allows them to feel free to work through their struggles. I have a passion for guiding marriages/couples to overcome obstacles. I am committed to helping individuals with PTSD, Depression, Anxiety or Stress. My professional experience began over 10 years ago which includes schools, inpatient crisis centers & office settings . I believe the counseling process should take the whole person and their life experiences into consideration while looking at the person’s mind, body, and spirit to best fit each individuals needs.
(903) 905-8802 View (903) 905-8802
Photo of Trey Russell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lamar County, TX
Trey Russell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Paris, TX 75460
Life is a challenge. Whether struggling with a life event or underlying mental illness we are here to help. Sometimes we find ourselves struggling with day to day life, marriage, or work. Perhaps substance use or other behaviors have been found to be causing problems. Whether there is a life event which is causing difficulty or a more serious illness which needs treatment New Focus Counseling Center is equipped with the professionals needed to help you meet your goals.
Life is a challenge. Whether struggling with a life event or underlying mental illness we are here to help. Sometimes we find ourselves struggling with day to day life, marriage, or work. Perhaps substance use or other behaviors have been found to be causing problems. Whether there is a life event which is causing difficulty or a more serious illness which needs treatment New Focus Counseling Center is equipped with the professionals needed to help you meet your goals.
(903) 609-3073 View (903) 609-3073
Photo of Hometown Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lamar County, TX
Hometown Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Paris, TX 75460
Now Accepting Aetna! Have immediate openings... Ready for change? We are here to help. Hometown Counseling is an inclusive, LGBTQ+ affirming group practice helping those who feel like no one "gets it." We are diverse therapists helping others with depression, anxiety, trauma, and more. We offer flexible scheduling options to assist you with any life changes, stresses, or worries you're experiencing. Let's face your obstacles together to find creative and collaborative solutions. We believe that seeking help is a brave thing to do so congratulations on taking the first step. We look forward to helping you feel better.
Now Accepting Aetna! Have immediate openings... Ready for change? We are here to help. Hometown Counseling is an inclusive, LGBTQ+ affirming group practice helping those who feel like no one "gets it." We are diverse therapists helping others with depression, anxiety, trauma, and more. We offer flexible scheduling options to assist you with any life changes, stresses, or worries you're experiencing. Let's face your obstacles together to find creative and collaborative solutions. We believe that seeking help is a brave thing to do so congratulations on taking the first step. We look forward to helping you feel better.
(903) 307-5667 View (903) 307-5667
Photo of Nick P Patras, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lamar County, TX
Nick P Patras
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Paris, TX 75460
My ideal clients are adults 18 to 80+ who are ready for change and growth. I work collaboratively with clients who are experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, past trauma, current or unresolved grief and loss, or feelings of being less than your "best self". As a former first responder, I have extensive experience and training in working with first responders and their families, veterans and returning warriors, and couples and partners. If you want your life or relationship to change, act now. I also work with business owners and entrepreneurs who want to take their business to the next level. I am here to support you!
My ideal clients are adults 18 to 80+ who are ready for change and growth. I work collaboratively with clients who are experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, past trauma, current or unresolved grief and loss, or feelings of being less than your "best self". As a former first responder, I have extensive experience and training in working with first responders and their families, veterans and returning warriors, and couples and partners. If you want your life or relationship to change, act now. I also work with business owners and entrepreneurs who want to take their business to the next level. I am here to support you!
(430) 233-4945 View (430) 233-4945
Photo of Adriana Kirkindoff, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lamar County, TX
Adriana Kirkindoff
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Paris, TX 75460  (Online Only)
My ideal client who is someone that not only is ready for counseling, but is ready to do the work that comes along with it. I often share with clients, that the session is the easy work. After you leave session and return back to your daily routine, that is the hard work. However, acknowledging that you are ready for a change and also acknowledging that this is work, I am happy to work with you.
My ideal client who is someone that not only is ready for counseling, but is ready to do the work that comes along with it. I often share with clients, that the session is the easy work. After you leave session and return back to your daily routine, that is the hard work. However, acknowledging that you are ready for a change and also acknowledging that this is work, I am happy to work with you.
(936) 279-3624 View (936) 279-3624

Online Therapists

Photo of Linda L Jacobs, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lamar County, TX
Linda L Jacobs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
Denton, TX 76201
Hi and welcome my site! I am a seasoned psychotherapist who believes that life is 10% of what happens to us and 90% of how we deal with it. We are all a life in progress and I love to help put those pieces of life together in an collaborative effort. I have worked in private practice, a fertility clinic, and a non-profit community agency. I enjoy working with those who are experiencing symptoms of depression, PTSD, trauma, sexual additions, bipolar disorder, grief, couples issues, fertility/women's issues and personality disorders.
Hi and welcome my site! I am a seasoned psychotherapist who believes that life is 10% of what happens to us and 90% of how we deal with it. We are all a life in progress and I love to help put those pieces of life together in an collaborative effort. I have worked in private practice, a fertility clinic, and a non-profit community agency. I enjoy working with those who are experiencing symptoms of depression, PTSD, trauma, sexual additions, bipolar disorder, grief, couples issues, fertility/women's issues and personality disorders.
(940) 373-6788 View (940) 373-6788
Photo of Jesse Gill, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lamar County, TX
Jesse Gill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I am a licensed clinician who has experience working with trauma, anxiety, depression, stress, OCD, and bipolar. I believe that from our birth we begin building an image of who we are, how relationships should function, and how the world works around us. For many of us, adverse experiences in life can lead to difficulty managing stress or daily functioning as we get older. We may need help processing our lived experiences and understanding how they have effected our decision making and the struggles we face today. I believe that, by focusing on the present and applying the past, we can discover both our goals and our strengths.
I am a licensed clinician who has experience working with trauma, anxiety, depression, stress, OCD, and bipolar. I believe that from our birth we begin building an image of who we are, how relationships should function, and how the world works around us. For many of us, adverse experiences in life can lead to difficulty managing stress or daily functioning as we get older. We may need help processing our lived experiences and understanding how they have effected our decision making and the struggles we face today. I believe that, by focusing on the present and applying the past, we can discover both our goals and our strengths.
(214) 380-2668 View (214) 380-2668
Photo of Landry Therapy Group, Psychologist in Lamar County, TX
Landry Therapy Group
Psychologist, LPC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75206  (Online Only)
Therapy 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 Patients! We have over 25 years experience working with children and families performing comprehensive psychological valuations. Results of these evaluations can assist mental health professionals, medical personnel, educators, and members of treatment teams to help a client progress & have a better quality of life. : Our therapy goal is to form a bond of trust and commitment with our clients. With the proper support and guidance, we believe people have an inherent ability to persevere through any struggle with which they are confronted.
Therapy 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 Patients! We have over 25 years experience working with children and families performing comprehensive psychological valuations. Results of these evaluations can assist mental health professionals, medical personnel, educators, and members of treatment teams to help a client progress & have a better quality of life. : Our therapy goal is to form a bond of trust and commitment with our clients. With the proper support and guidance, we believe people have an inherent ability to persevere through any struggle with which they are confronted.
(469) 933-0570 View (469) 933-0570
Photo of Jasmine L Ervin, LPC-Associate in Lamar County, TX
Jasmine L Ervin
LPC-Associate
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75287  (Online Only)
I specialize in Womens Issues, Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Teens, Addiction, Relationship Issues, Bipolar Disorder, Adults with ADHD, Suicide Ideation, Divorce, LGBTQ+.
Hi my name is Jasmine Ervin, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor-Associate and Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor in the State of Texas. My 10+ years of experience educator, counselor, and administrator have acted as a catalyst in how I prioritize ensuring that my clients not only receive proper counsel, but relevant psych education in how to apply learned skills to their daily lives. My mental health background in the private practice and hospitalization setting (outpatient and inpatient) have prepared me to work with various diverse populations and an array of specialties.
I specialize in Womens Issues, Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Teens, Addiction, Relationship Issues, Bipolar Disorder, Adults with ADHD, Suicide Ideation, Divorce, LGBTQ+.
Hi my name is Jasmine Ervin, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor-Associate and Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor in the State of Texas. My 10+ years of experience educator, counselor, and administrator have acted as a catalyst in how I prioritize ensuring that my clients not only receive proper counsel, but relevant psych education in how to apply learned skills to their daily lives. My mental health background in the private practice and hospitalization setting (outpatient and inpatient) have prepared me to work with various diverse populations and an array of specialties.
(469) 224-5456 View (469) 224-5456
Photo of Kay Fontenot, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lamar County, TX
Kay Fontenot
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, LCDC, BSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75204
My professional goal is to provide connection, healing, and insight during each of our encounters, With a passion for attachment and relational models, I have training, expertise and experience in providing counseling and psychotherapy for the following types of concerns/struggles: Women's Concerns, Emerging Adults, Relationship Strain, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Substance Use, Personality Traits and/or Disorders, Divorce, Infidelity, Boundaries, Grief and Loss, Career Concerns, Assertiveness Training, & Life Adjustments. I also offer individual, group and family intensives for connection, insight and deeper healing.
My professional goal is to provide connection, healing, and insight during each of our encounters, With a passion for attachment and relational models, I have training, expertise and experience in providing counseling and psychotherapy for the following types of concerns/struggles: Women's Concerns, Emerging Adults, Relationship Strain, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Substance Use, Personality Traits and/or Disorders, Divorce, Infidelity, Boundaries, Grief and Loss, Career Concerns, Assertiveness Training, & Life Adjustments. I also offer individual, group and family intensives for connection, insight and deeper healing.
(469) 405-2856 View (469) 405-2856
Photo of Chris E Goetz, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lamar County, TX
Chris E Goetz
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75211
My clinical expertise includes treating MDD, Bipolar I & II, Schizoaffective, BPD, Dual-diagnosis and SUDS.
My motto is, “reveal the root, expose the lie and heal the wounded spirit.” It is my passion to work with those who struggle with severe trauma and emotional abuse. Based on the comfort level of the patient - faith, spirituality and prayer can often be a vital part of the therapeutic process. I strive to meet the unique and individual needs of each client and adjust my approach accordingly. I truly consider it an honor and a privilege to partner with you in your journey towards wholeness. There is a plan and a purpose for your life, full of unique strengths and talents. My goal is to help you become all that you were created to be.
My clinical expertise includes treating MDD, Bipolar I & II, Schizoaffective, BPD, Dual-diagnosis and SUDS.
My motto is, “reveal the root, expose the lie and heal the wounded spirit.” It is my passion to work with those who struggle with severe trauma and emotional abuse. Based on the comfort level of the patient - faith, spirituality and prayer can often be a vital part of the therapeutic process. I strive to meet the unique and individual needs of each client and adjust my approach accordingly. I truly consider it an honor and a privilege to partner with you in your journey towards wholeness. There is a plan and a purpose for your life, full of unique strengths and talents. My goal is to help you become all that you were created to be.
(214) 206-4570 View (214) 206-4570
Photo of Krystal Wurm, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lamar County, TX
Krystal Wurm
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, PhD-C
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75071
I identify as a cis female identifying as non-binary that prefers the pronouns she/they born in the United States. 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 depression, anxiety, OCD, trauma, marital stress, parent-child difficulties, domestic violence, substance abuse, bipolar disorder, and anger issues. My specialties include working with the lgbtqia2s+ community and working with teens!
I identify as a cis female identifying as non-binary that prefers the pronouns she/they born in the United States. 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 depression, anxiety, OCD, trauma, marital stress, parent-child difficulties, domestic violence, substance abuse, bipolar disorder, and anger issues. My specialties include working with the lgbtqia2s+ community and working with teens!
(469) 551-8346 View (469) 551-8346
Photo of Sophia Creede, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lamar County, TX
Sophia Creede
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75254  (Online Only)
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I bring a wealth of expertise to the therapeutic space. I earned my Bachelor's in Psychology from the esteemed University of Texas at Austin and furthered my education with a Master's in Social Work from the University of Houston. My professional journey has encompassed working with diverse populations facing a spectrum of challenges, including individuals navigating trauma, chronic health conditions, LGBTIQA+, PTSD, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, and the complexities of reintegration after extended prison sentences.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I bring a wealth of expertise to the therapeutic space. I earned my Bachelor's in Psychology from the esteemed University of Texas at Austin and furthered my education with a Master's in Social Work from the University of Houston. My professional journey has encompassed working with diverse populations facing a spectrum of challenges, including individuals navigating trauma, chronic health conditions, LGBTIQA+, PTSD, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, and the complexities of reintegration after extended prison sentences.
(832) 346-7386 View (832) 346-7386
Photo of Pam Flint, Psychologist in Lamar County, TX
Pam Flint
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Frisco, TX 75034
I work with a variety of issues including: depression, anxiety, grief, relationship issues, career counseling, spirituality, divorce, OCD, Panic Disorder, and Bipolar Disorder.
I work with adult clients dealing with a variety of issues. My previous career was as a registered nurse, which affords me comprehensive knowledge about psychiatric medications prescribed by your PCP or psychiatrist. I worked for over 20 years, full-time at the University of North Texas as a staff psychologist, Assistant Professor in the psychology department, and later transitioned to the Clinical Director of the Counseling Center. Please visit my website to learn more about my training, experience and professional services I offer. Drpamflint.com If interested in my children's book, you can check it out www.roxythetherapydog.com
I work with a variety of issues including: depression, anxiety, grief, relationship issues, career counseling, spirituality, divorce, OCD, Panic Disorder, and Bipolar Disorder.
I work with adult clients dealing with a variety of issues. My previous career was as a registered nurse, which affords me comprehensive knowledge about psychiatric medications prescribed by your PCP or psychiatrist. I worked for over 20 years, full-time at the University of North Texas as a staff psychologist, Assistant Professor in the psychology department, and later transitioned to the Clinical Director of the Counseling Center. Please visit my website to learn more about my training, experience and professional services I offer. Drpamflint.com If interested in my children's book, you can check it out www.roxythetherapydog.com
(469) 702-8381 View (469) 702-8381
Photo of Janna Moore, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lamar County, TX
Janna Moore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tyler, TX 75707  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating anxiety, depression and bipolar disorders, self-esteem, relationship issues, and young adults/college students.
Sometimes life brings seasons in which we feel overly anxious or depressed, insecure, or simply feel lost. You may have experienced a significant life change and are trying to figure out what’s next, you might be struggling to navigate relationships, or maybe you have been feeling overwhelmed by your thoughts and emotions and have had enough. My goal is to empower you to take back control of your life.
I specialize in treating anxiety, depression and bipolar disorders, self-esteem, relationship issues, and young adults/college students.
Sometimes life brings seasons in which we feel overly anxious or depressed, insecure, or simply feel lost. You may have experienced a significant life change and are trying to figure out what’s next, you might be struggling to navigate relationships, or maybe you have been feeling overwhelmed by your thoughts and emotions and have had enough. My goal is to empower you to take back control of your life.
(512) 562-9159 View (512) 562-9159
Photo of Jacqueline Mahoney, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lamar County, TX
Jacqueline Mahoney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in Individual Therapy for adults. I have extensive experience helping clients with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and substance use disorders.. With over 30 years of experience, I use a variety of therapeutic approaches to offer a personalized approach tailored to each individual's needs.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in Individual Therapy for adults. I have extensive experience helping clients with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and substance use disorders.. With over 30 years of experience, I use a variety of therapeutic approaches to offer a personalized approach tailored to each individual's needs.
(972) 433-5809 View (972) 433-5809

See more therapy options for Lamar County


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.