Photo of J. Nicole Abell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lindale, TX
J. Nicole Abell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Lindale, TX 75771
Not accepting new clients
My goals in therapy center around two ideas: helping you feel better and helping you get better. Life gets complicated for all of us (either throughout our lives or during parts of our lives). Sometimes we just need someone else to help guide us through it and teach us a new way to approaching our difficulties. One part involves helping you gain confidence that you can have control of your life, & the other involves challenging your beliefs and world views that keep you from living life to the fullest. Helping you feel better involves compassionate listening and understanding your concerns through your worldview.
My goals in therapy center around two ideas: helping you feel better and helping you get better. Life gets complicated for all of us (either throughout our lives or during parts of our lives). Sometimes we just need someone else to help guide us through it and teach us a new way to approaching our difficulties. One part involves helping you gain confidence that you can have control of your life, & the other involves challenging your beliefs and world views that keep you from living life to the fullest. Helping you feel better involves compassionate listening and understanding your concerns through your worldview.
(430) 220-0177 View (430) 220-0177

Online Therapists

Photo of Hati Munetsi, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lindale, TX
Hati Munetsi
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR
Verified Verified
Garland, TX 75043
I am an Art Psychotherapist/LPC who services clients from ages 5 and up, presenting with a variety of diagnoses or needs. My experience has been working with eating disorder latency and teen patients, trauma patients, gender identity, and exposure to sexual abuse and bipolar disorder clients.
I am an Art Psychotherapist/LPC who services clients from ages 5 and up, presenting with a variety of diagnoses or needs. My experience has been working with eating disorder latency and teen patients, trauma patients, gender identity, and exposure to sexual abuse and bipolar disorder clients.
(214) 730-5634 View (214) 730-5634
Photo of Levi S McClendon, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lindale, TX
Levi S McClendon
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC, NCSC, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lufkin, TX 75901  (Online Only)
I assistant clients experiencing trauma and stress, depressive and anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, substance use/addictive disorders, and sleep disorders.
Are you tired of feeling on-edge, wishing you could connect to others, but afraid to do so? Do you notice yourself avoiding places that you used to love because you feel unsafe? Perhaps you feel exhausted, wishing you could have restful, uninterrupted sleep, or maybe you feel numb and disconnected from everything. I hear you. You are not alone. Let me help. You can schedule a free 15 minute consultation on my website (located to the right of this paragraph).
I assistant clients experiencing trauma and stress, depressive and anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, substance use/addictive disorders, and sleep disorders.
Are you tired of feeling on-edge, wishing you could connect to others, but afraid to do so? Do you notice yourself avoiding places that you used to love because you feel unsafe? Perhaps you feel exhausted, wishing you could have restful, uninterrupted sleep, or maybe you feel numb and disconnected from everything. I hear you. You are not alone. Let me help. You can schedule a free 15 minute consultation on my website (located to the right of this paragraph).
(936) 246-2071 View (936) 246-2071
Photo of De'An Olson Roper, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lindale, TX
De'An Olson Roper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Richardson, TX 75081
I can help with relationships, coming out issues, family problems, addictions, depression, bipolar disorder, career changes, trauma and parenting concerns.
After 15+ years of practice and training other therapists, I have learned working with someone who “gets” you can be nurturing and healing. I believe this happens when the therapist brings their personal authenticity to your session, and research tells us this is one of the most critical elements in therapy. Listening deeply, asking the right questions, and providing honest and helpful feedback tailored to your personality are the other skills that complete the picture. It is my passion to help people to change painful patterns, to heal, to become whole, and to find their life’s joy and fulfillment.
I can help with relationships, coming out issues, family problems, addictions, depression, bipolar disorder, career changes, trauma and parenting concerns.
After 15+ years of practice and training other therapists, I have learned working with someone who “gets” you can be nurturing and healing. I believe this happens when the therapist brings their personal authenticity to your session, and research tells us this is one of the most critical elements in therapy. Listening deeply, asking the right questions, and providing honest and helpful feedback tailored to your personality are the other skills that complete the picture. It is my passion to help people to change painful patterns, to heal, to become whole, and to find their life’s joy and fulfillment.
(972) 996-7238 View (972) 996-7238
Photo of Gayle Davis, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lindale, TX
Gayle Davis, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Irving, TX 75062
Specialties include depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, PTSD, LGBT, and relationship issues.
Having over 30 years of experience as a psychotherapist, I have found that everyone has within themselves the internal resources for self-healing. My goal as a therapist is to assist you in accessing and further developing those resources. I will help you work through your immediate problems and concerns as well as assist you in addressing past experiences that may be influencing your current emotional state, behaviors and relationships. I work with adults 20 years and older.
Specialties include depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, PTSD, LGBT, and relationship issues.
Having over 30 years of experience as a psychotherapist, I have found that everyone has within themselves the internal resources for self-healing. My goal as a therapist is to assist you in accessing and further developing those resources. I will help you work through your immediate problems and concerns as well as assist you in addressing past experiences that may be influencing your current emotional state, behaviors and relationships. I work with adults 20 years and older.
(214) 307-8781 View (214) 307-8781
Photo of Pam Flint, Psychologist in Lindale, 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 Samia Geraghty, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lindale, TX
Samia Geraghty
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75214
As a therapist with 20 years of experience, I offer support, empathy, guidance and a safe space to explore any problem you may bring, big or small. Together we can work to identify your goals and find solutions to any issues you are currently facing. I work with adults and adolescents with a wide range of issues including but not limited to anxiety, phobias, depression, bipolar disorder, LGBTQIA, personality disorders, chronic pain, sexual abuse, trauma, job stress and relationship difficulties.
As a therapist with 20 years of experience, I offer support, empathy, guidance and a safe space to explore any problem you may bring, big or small. Together we can work to identify your goals and find solutions to any issues you are currently facing. I work with adults and adolescents with a wide range of issues including but not limited to anxiety, phobias, depression, bipolar disorder, LGBTQIA, personality disorders, chronic pain, sexual abuse, trauma, job stress and relationship difficulties.
(469) 352-2304 View (469) 352-2304
Photo of Lindsey Grela, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lindale, TX
Lindsey Grela
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Little Elm, TX 75068
Lindsey has experience working in a domestic violence outreach center, a community health crisis center, and a behavioral day treatment program for children and adolescents. As a part of her experience, Lindsey has worked with children and adults struggling with a variety of concerns, including, but not limited to: Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Abuse, Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar disorder, Grief, Relationship Concerns, and Personal Identity.
Lindsey has experience working in a domestic violence outreach center, a community health crisis center, and a behavioral day treatment program for children and adolescents. As a part of her experience, Lindsey has worked with children and adults struggling with a variety of concerns, including, but not limited to: Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Abuse, Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar disorder, Grief, Relationship Concerns, and Personal Identity.
(214) 225-2751 View (214) 225-2751
Photo of Casey Leamy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Lindale, TX
Casey Leamy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCDC, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75252
My experience encompasses substance abuse, self-harm, domestic violence, trauma, adolescent behavioral issues, relational issues, family conflict, parenting, depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, Adjustment Disorders, Bipolar, Borderline, and ADHD.
Nothing in life is one size fits all; therapy is no exception. My first priority is to establish a trusting relationship with you, then together create goals tailored to your individual needs. As humans, we tend to shy away from uncomfortable, unwanted, or overwhelming feelings/thoughts. We all develop habits to cope; sometimes those habits may no longer be helpful. In a non-judgmental and safe environment, we will work together, unlock your potential and create the change you desire. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor and fully trained in EMDR in Texas.
My experience encompasses substance abuse, self-harm, domestic violence, trauma, adolescent behavioral issues, relational issues, family conflict, parenting, depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, Adjustment Disorders, Bipolar, Borderline, and ADHD.
Nothing in life is one size fits all; therapy is no exception. My first priority is to establish a trusting relationship with you, then together create goals tailored to your individual needs. As humans, we tend to shy away from uncomfortable, unwanted, or overwhelming feelings/thoughts. We all develop habits to cope; sometimes those habits may no longer be helpful. In a non-judgmental and safe environment, we will work together, unlock your potential and create the change you desire. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor and fully trained in EMDR in Texas.
(469) 778-4625 View (469) 778-4625
Photo of Merritt Insight Counseling, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lindale, TX
Merritt Insight Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75252  (Online Only)
You've made the decision to pursue counseling and are ready to make changes in your life. Whether you are grieving the loss of a loved one, have had past traumatic experiences, or the pressure and stress from life is becoming overwhelming, I look forward to developing a therapeutic alliance with you to help you accomplish your goals. I specialize in treating Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, and Bipolar Disorder. I work with both adults and adolescents (12+).
You've made the decision to pursue counseling and are ready to make changes in your life. Whether you are grieving the loss of a loved one, have had past traumatic experiences, or the pressure and stress from life is becoming overwhelming, I look forward to developing a therapeutic alliance with you to help you accomplish your goals. I specialize in treating Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, and Bipolar Disorder. I work with both adults and adolescents (12+).
(469) 443-6727 View (469) 443-6727
Photo of Megan Rasmussen, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lindale, TX
Megan Rasmussen
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Frisco, TX 75034
Amongst Megan’s areas of expertise are the treatment of Anxiety, Depression, Adjustment Disorder, Alcohol/ Chemical Dependency, Anger Management, Attachment Disorders, ADHD, Behavior Modification, Bipolar Disorder, Codependency, Domestic Violence, Disordered Eating, Gender Identity/ Sexuality, LGBTQIA+, Impulse Disorder, Mood Disorders, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Panic Disorder, Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Psychotic Disorder, Self-harm, Suicide Ideation, Sleep Disorders, Stress Management, Trauma, and Women’s Issues. She enjoys working with teenagers, adults, couples, and families.
Amongst Megan’s areas of expertise are the treatment of Anxiety, Depression, Adjustment Disorder, Alcohol/ Chemical Dependency, Anger Management, Attachment Disorders, ADHD, Behavior Modification, Bipolar Disorder, Codependency, Domestic Violence, Disordered Eating, Gender Identity/ Sexuality, LGBTQIA+, Impulse Disorder, Mood Disorders, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Panic Disorder, Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Psychotic Disorder, Self-harm, Suicide Ideation, Sleep Disorders, Stress Management, Trauma, and Women’s Issues. She enjoys working with teenagers, adults, couples, and families.
(214) 307-6252 View (214) 307-6252
Photo of Andrea Perry, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lindale, 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 Stacy Bortey, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Lindale, TX
Stacy Bortey
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPC-A
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75240
I have helped with people dealing with stress, grief, anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues , bipolar disorder and borderline disorders.
It is amazing that you have taken this first step. I trust and believe that it took a lot of courage but with you looking at this message, it is a bold and beautiful step that you have taken. Though it may be unknown to you, your mental health plays a big role in your lifestyle and making sure that yours is a healthy lifestyle includes paying attention to your mental health. You truly do have that solution within you and with my guidance you will discover that solution, your strengths and most importantly what that miracle of having the solution looks like.
I have helped with people dealing with stress, grief, anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues , bipolar disorder and borderline disorders.
It is amazing that you have taken this first step. I trust and believe that it took a lot of courage but with you looking at this message, it is a bold and beautiful step that you have taken. Though it may be unknown to you, your mental health plays a big role in your lifestyle and making sure that yours is a healthy lifestyle includes paying attention to your mental health. You truly do have that solution within you and with my guidance you will discover that solution, your strengths and most importantly what that miracle of having the solution looks like.
(469) 281-7155 View (469) 281-7155
Photo of Teresa Tribett, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lindale, TX
Teresa Tribett
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75243
I have over 15 years of experience treating those struggling with depression, trauma disorders, anxiety related disorders, mood disorders to include bipolar disorder, relationship issues, self-esteem, and systematic family conflict to include parenting issues.
My clients would describe me as easy to talk to, a great listener, honest, and informed. I find great value in creating a foundation of trust and comfortability so my clients can work to meet their therapeutic goals. Counseling is most effective when the client feels accepted and believes the therapist genuinely cares about the topics discussed during session. It is a privilege to be a part of one's journey to improve, change, or maintain aspects in their life. I truly care about each of my client's health and well-being.
I have over 15 years of experience treating those struggling with depression, trauma disorders, anxiety related disorders, mood disorders to include bipolar disorder, relationship issues, self-esteem, and systematic family conflict to include parenting issues.
My clients would describe me as easy to talk to, a great listener, honest, and informed. I find great value in creating a foundation of trust and comfortability so my clients can work to meet their therapeutic goals. Counseling is most effective when the client feels accepted and believes the therapist genuinely cares about the topics discussed during session. It is a privilege to be a part of one's journey to improve, change, or maintain aspects in their life. I truly care about each of my client's health and well-being.
(214) 833-8301 View (214) 833-8301
Photo of Kristina McCray, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lindale, TX
Kristina McCray
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LSSP
Verified Verified
Richardson, TX 75082
Kristina McCray is a licensed professional counselor with over 15 years of experience working as a mental health professional. She has experience with working with people of all ages, cultures, and backgrounds on a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, OCD, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, Autism Spectrum Disorder, personality disorders, substance addiction, identity problems, self-esteem problems, domestic, sexual abuse, ADHD, etc. Kristina also has helped many people who have experienced physical and emotional trauma. Moreover, Kristina is a School Psychologist.
Kristina McCray is a licensed professional counselor with over 15 years of experience working as a mental health professional. She has experience with working with people of all ages, cultures, and backgrounds on a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, OCD, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, Autism Spectrum Disorder, personality disorders, substance addiction, identity problems, self-esteem problems, domestic, sexual abuse, ADHD, etc. Kristina also has helped many people who have experienced physical and emotional trauma. Moreover, Kristina is a School Psychologist.
(512) 883-7116 View (512) 883-7116
Photo of Krista Woods, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lindale, TX
Krista Woods
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75243
Have you been struggling with feelings of sadness, anxiety or panic attacks? Or are you tired of people using you or struggling to get motivated? I provide compassionate care while providing the tools and information to help you heal. Other challenges like drugs/alcohol, bipolar disorder; or if you're not sure what the problem is but need help and support, I will work with you to help you live a better, healthier life. My extensive experience also includes helping children, teens and adults impacted by foster care, have been adopted, are birth parents, or who are adoptive/ foster parents.
Have you been struggling with feelings of sadness, anxiety or panic attacks? Or are you tired of people using you or struggling to get motivated? I provide compassionate care while providing the tools and information to help you heal. Other challenges like drugs/alcohol, bipolar disorder; or if you're not sure what the problem is but need help and support, I will work with you to help you live a better, healthier life. My extensive experience also includes helping children, teens and adults impacted by foster care, have been adopted, are birth parents, or who are adoptive/ foster parents.
(940) 220-9758 View (940) 220-9758
Photo of Dallas Therapy Associates PLLC, Psychologist in Lindale, TX
Dallas Therapy Associates PLLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75206
Dallas Therapy Associates (DTA) is a premiere, multi-specialty group mental health practice comprised of uniquely talented therapists who are passionate about their work and are committed to offering the highest-quality mental health treatment and support. DTA providers serve individuals, couples, and families navigating challenges and seeking balance in their life. Our philosophy is to help each individual and family maximize their strengths. We take pride in maintaining a non-judgmental, relaxed, compassionate, and safe environment.
Dallas Therapy Associates (DTA) is a premiere, multi-specialty group mental health practice comprised of uniquely talented therapists who are passionate about their work and are committed to offering the highest-quality mental health treatment and support. DTA providers serve individuals, couples, and families navigating challenges and seeking balance in their life. Our philosophy is to help each individual and family maximize their strengths. We take pride in maintaining a non-judgmental, relaxed, compassionate, and safe environment.
(469) 373-8642 View (469) 373-8642
Photo of Giana Martinez, LPC Associate in Lindale, TX
Giana Martinez
LPC Associate, LPC-A
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75243
You're not a cookie, and I am not a cookie-cutter therapist. Every person is unique, and my counseling approach is very much tailored to your specific needs. For most people, counseling may be a last resort, one final effort after they’ve tried everything else. Some worry that seeking therapy means they’ve failed; and for others, the idea of therapy is just plain scary or not the way they were “taught to deal with things”. Even so, the fact that you’re reading this means you want to take back control and begin creating the life you really want. Well, you’ve come to the right place!
You're not a cookie, and I am not a cookie-cutter therapist. Every person is unique, and my counseling approach is very much tailored to your specific needs. For most people, counseling may be a last resort, one final effort after they’ve tried everything else. Some worry that seeking therapy means they’ve failed; and for others, the idea of therapy is just plain scary or not the way they were “taught to deal with things”. Even so, the fact that you’re reading this means you want to take back control and begin creating the life you really want. Well, you’ve come to the right place!
(469) 414-5042 View (469) 414-5042
Photo of CHART Counseling Services, Candace Thurman, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lindale, TX
CHART Counseling Services, Candace Thurman, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75070
If you are exploring therapy options for you and/or your loved one, then I guess it is safe to say that you are at the point where you feel you’ve tried and tried to fix the same issues only to gain limited to no success. Our goal at CHART Counseling Services is Creating Hope And Restoring Trust. I specialize in helping individuals; young and old, families, and couples gain the necessary tools/skills to be an effective communicator, become assertive, set boundaries, increase confidence and self-esteem, and more importantly become overall mentally fit to face day to day life challenges.
If you are exploring therapy options for you and/or your loved one, then I guess it is safe to say that you are at the point where you feel you’ve tried and tried to fix the same issues only to gain limited to no success. Our goal at CHART Counseling Services is Creating Hope And Restoring Trust. I specialize in helping individuals; young and old, families, and couples gain the necessary tools/skills to be an effective communicator, become assertive, set boundaries, increase confidence and self-esteem, and more importantly become overall mentally fit to face day to day life challenges.
(469) 425-2342 View (469) 425-2342
Photo of Kassandra T. Sanchez, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lindale, TX
Kassandra T. Sanchez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Garland, TX 75043  (Online Only)
Life has a way of putting us in boxes and layering expectations on every facet of our identity. It’s tiring, it’s overwhelming, and it limits the joy we find in our day to day. You don’t have to subscribe to these roles that blunt you, though! The perfectionism, anxiety, depression and imposter syndrome don’t have to define you and you definitely don’t have to dismantle it alone. You’ll lead me through a trail that you’ve walked before and I’ll point out the landmarks that you’ve become numb to. I’ll point out new paths you could take, but you always have control in deciding whether you try a new way or not.
Life has a way of putting us in boxes and layering expectations on every facet of our identity. It’s tiring, it’s overwhelming, and it limits the joy we find in our day to day. You don’t have to subscribe to these roles that blunt you, though! The perfectionism, anxiety, depression and imposter syndrome don’t have to define you and you definitely don’t have to dismantle it alone. You’ll lead me through a trail that you’ve walked before and I’ll point out the landmarks that you’ve become numb to. I’ll point out new paths you could take, but you always have control in deciding whether you try a new way or not.
(972) 764-8032 View (972) 764-8032

See more therapy options for Lindale

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.