Bipolar Disorder Therapists in McKinney, TX

Photo of Jacqueline Mahoney, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in McKinney, 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
Photo of Marci'a Blake, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Marci'a Blake
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with nearly 15 years of experience helping people navigate the difficult seasons of life. I place a high value on rapport building and strongly believe that each client is an expert on themselves. I have a wide range of skills helping adolescents and adults with issues such as depression, anxiety, bipolar, grief and loss, borderline personality disorder, trauma, school related issues, adjustment and substance use disorders.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with nearly 15 years of experience helping people navigate the difficult seasons of life. I place a high value on rapport building and strongly believe that each client is an expert on themselves. I have a wide range of skills helping adolescents and adults with issues such as depression, anxiety, bipolar, grief and loss, borderline personality disorder, trauma, school related issues, adjustment and substance use disorders.
(469) 529-6022 View (469) 529-6022
Photo of Joseph Dustin Cobb, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in McKinney, TX
Joseph Dustin Cobb
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070
I received my Masters from University of Texas at Arlington in 2012. I have extensive experience and training in medical social work, dual diagnosis, and depressive disorders. I work with clients on a diverse spectrum of topics: depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, life stages, attachment and codependency, alcoholism, substance abuse, individuals living with disabilities, LGBT, gender dysphoria, and caregivers of people suffering from mental illness.
I received my Masters from University of Texas at Arlington in 2012. I have extensive experience and training in medical social work, dual diagnosis, and depressive disorders. I work with clients on a diverse spectrum of topics: depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, life stages, attachment and codependency, alcoholism, substance abuse, individuals living with disabilities, LGBT, gender dysphoria, and caregivers of people suffering from mental illness.
(972) 449-5137 View (972) 449-5137
Photo of Nadia T. Hasan, Psychologist in McKinney, TX
Nadia T. Hasan
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75069  (Online Only)
Sometimes life can be challenging, and you need support from an expert to help you feel better. I can help you recover from depression, bipolar disorder, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, OCD, panic disorders, grief/ loss, trauma, low self-esteem, academic stress, social identity concerns (racial, ethnic, sexual), interpersonal issues, relationship problems, and family concerns. I also provide psychological assessments and evaluations to diagnose learning disabilities, ADHD, disability, and PTSD.
Sometimes life can be challenging, and you need support from an expert to help you feel better. I can help you recover from depression, bipolar disorder, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, OCD, panic disorders, grief/ loss, trauma, low self-esteem, academic stress, social identity concerns (racial, ethnic, sexual), interpersonal issues, relationship problems, and family concerns. I also provide psychological assessments and evaluations to diagnose learning disabilities, ADHD, disability, and PTSD.
(361) 336-0766 View (361) 336-0766
Photo of Natalie Cole, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Natalie Cole
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070
Natalie Cole has been a practicing Licensed Professional Counselor since 2002. Natalie takes great pride in her work and customizes therapy to best meet the needs of each client. Natalie has significant experience in working with adolescents through adults and couples. Natalie is a Texas Family Law Mediator and works with high conflict families, couples, and even parents and teens to help them navigate the difficulties that can arise through troubled relationships. Natalie has significant experience in working with issues such as depression, anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, trauma, grief/loss, infertility, teen issues, and divorce.
Natalie Cole has been a practicing Licensed Professional Counselor since 2002. Natalie takes great pride in her work and customizes therapy to best meet the needs of each client. Natalie has significant experience in working with adolescents through adults and couples. Natalie is a Texas Family Law Mediator and works with high conflict families, couples, and even parents and teens to help them navigate the difficulties that can arise through troubled relationships. Natalie has significant experience in working with issues such as depression, anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, trauma, grief/loss, infertility, teen issues, and divorce.
(214) 624-6763 View (214) 624-6763
Photo of Samantha Wilson, Psychological Associate in McKinney, TX
Samantha Wilson
Psychological Associate, MS, LPA, BCN
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070  (Online Only)
Samantha Wilson, M.S., LPA, earned her master’s degree in Clinical Psychology with a specialization in Neuropsychology from the University of Texas at Tyler. A clinician offering experience with child (10+), adolescent, adult individual psychotherapy and couples counseling, Samantha specializes in the treatment of trauma, PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder), depression, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, anxiety, various mood disorders, sexual abuse and relationship concerns. She is well versed in Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), depression and anxiety due to childhood trauma.
Samantha Wilson, M.S., LPA, earned her master’s degree in Clinical Psychology with a specialization in Neuropsychology from the University of Texas at Tyler. A clinician offering experience with child (10+), adolescent, adult individual psychotherapy and couples counseling, Samantha specializes in the treatment of trauma, PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder), depression, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, anxiety, various mood disorders, sexual abuse and relationship concerns. She is well versed in Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), depression and anxiety due to childhood trauma.
(972) 498-1670 View (972) 498-1670
Photo of Kate Whitley, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Kate Whitley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070
I specialize in treating children, adolescents, and adults facing trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, and parenting or co-parenting challenges. I believe in helping you develop a deeper understanding of yourself. Additionally, I work with individuals dealing with ADHD, borderline personality disorder, and bipolar disorder.
I specialize in treating children, adolescents, and adults facing trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, and parenting or co-parenting challenges. I believe in helping you develop a deeper understanding of yourself. Additionally, I work with individuals dealing with ADHD, borderline personality disorder, and bipolar disorder.
(512) 768-2731 View (512) 768-2731
Photo of Laurie Todd, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Laurie Todd
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75071
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor in the state of Texas. I graduated with a MS in Counseling from Southern Methodist University. Throughout my career I have had experience in working with clients who have depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, dissociative identity disorder, schizoaffective disorder, gender/identity struggles, life adjustment stressors, grief, phobias, and PTSD/trauma. I am trained to treat clients with PTSD and trauma through Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM).
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor in the state of Texas. I graduated with a MS in Counseling from Southern Methodist University. Throughout my career I have had experience in working with clients who have depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, dissociative identity disorder, schizoaffective disorder, gender/identity struggles, life adjustment stressors, grief, phobias, and PTSD/trauma. I am trained to treat clients with PTSD and trauma through Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM).
(702) 766-4674 View (702) 766-4674
Photo of Eleonora Bass, Psychologist in McKinney, TX
Eleonora Bass
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75070
Accepting new patients! Available for psychological testing only. Dr. Eleonora Bass, Psy.D is a multi-lingual (English, Spanish, Russian, Italian), licensed psychologist with a range of clinical experience in the US and abroad. Dr. Bass has experience doing evaluations with children, adolescents, and adults struggling with mood disorders (anxiety, depression, bipolar), personality disorders, ADHD, learning disabilities, trauma, substance abuse, anger management, adult ASD, chronic pain, and life changes. She completed her clinical trainings in Houston, Massachusetts, Costa Rica, Israel, and Ecuador.
Accepting new patients! Available for psychological testing only. Dr. Eleonora Bass, Psy.D is a multi-lingual (English, Spanish, Russian, Italian), licensed psychologist with a range of clinical experience in the US and abroad. Dr. Bass has experience doing evaluations with children, adolescents, and adults struggling with mood disorders (anxiety, depression, bipolar), personality disorders, ADHD, learning disabilities, trauma, substance abuse, anger management, adult ASD, chronic pain, and life changes. She completed her clinical trainings in Houston, Massachusetts, Costa Rica, Israel, and Ecuador.
(214) 253-8710 View (214) 253-8710
Photo of Nancy Lownds, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in McKinney, TX
Nancy Lownds
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070
As a licensed clinical social worker in Texas, I have 20 years of experience that includes working in Inpatient Behavioral Health Hospitals specializing in trauma and substance use disorders, and Outpatient Programs in trauma and addiction. I have worked with co-occurring disorders, such as depression, bipolar disorders, anxiety, PTSD and addiction. I grew up in Atlanta, Georgia and attended the University of Georgia for my BSW degree and The University of Texas in Arlington for my MSSW degree. I am trained in CBT, DBT, Family Systems, Trauma Model Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy.
As a licensed clinical social worker in Texas, I have 20 years of experience that includes working in Inpatient Behavioral Health Hospitals specializing in trauma and substance use disorders, and Outpatient Programs in trauma and addiction. I have worked with co-occurring disorders, such as depression, bipolar disorders, anxiety, PTSD and addiction. I grew up in Atlanta, Georgia and attended the University of Georgia for my BSW degree and The University of Texas in Arlington for my MSSW degree. I am trained in CBT, DBT, Family Systems, Trauma Model Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy.
(972) 945-0438 View (972) 945-0438
Photo of Zeeshan Hussain, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in McKinney, TX
Zeeshan Hussain
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75071
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate under the supervision of Laurie Todd, LPC-S in the state of Texas. I hold a MA in Counseling Psychology from Texas Woman’s University, where I gained specialization in various treatment modalities. I have experience working with clients who presented with symptoms of depression, anxiety, bipolar and personality disorders, life adjustment stressors, trauma, and more.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate under the supervision of Laurie Todd, LPC-S in the state of Texas. I hold a MA in Counseling Psychology from Texas Woman’s University, where I gained specialization in various treatment modalities. I have experience working with clients who presented with symptoms of depression, anxiety, bipolar and personality disorders, life adjustment stressors, trauma, and more.
(972) 449-4151 View (972) 449-4151
Photo of Tiffany Damewood, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in McKinney, TX
Tiffany Damewood
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCDC
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070
I am especially passionate about working with autistic individuals, ADHDers, AuDHDers, and individuals with mood disorders (Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder).
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor (LCDC). I have a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Texas at Dallas and a master’s degree in social work from the University of Texas at Arlington. As a neurodivergent individual and a parent to my neurodivergent children, I have a unique understanding and lived experience regarding neurodivergence (particularly related to autism and ADHD). I am passionate about working with other neurodivergent individuals of all ages and identities from a neurodiversity-affirming approach.
I am especially passionate about working with autistic individuals, ADHDers, AuDHDers, and individuals with mood disorders (Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder).
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor (LCDC). I have a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Texas at Dallas and a master’s degree in social work from the University of Texas at Arlington. As a neurodivergent individual and a parent to my neurodivergent children, I have a unique understanding and lived experience regarding neurodivergence (particularly related to autism and ADHD). I am passionate about working with other neurodivergent individuals of all ages and identities from a neurodiversity-affirming approach.
(469) 634-3033 View (469) 634-3033
Photo of Krystal Wurm, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, 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 Barbara Crump, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Barbara Crump
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, LMFT
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75071
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor and LMFT in Texas. You and I will work together to uncover your story, understand how you got to where you are, explore options, and make new choices to create new healthy patterns. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, ADHD, psychosis, adjustment disorders, panic disorder, social anxiety, substance abuse and dependence, anger issues, trauma recovery, boundaries, codependency, self-worth issues, shame, and grief. I am trained in Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), which is highly effective in healing PTSD, trauma, and other related issues.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor and LMFT in Texas. You and I will work together to uncover your story, understand how you got to where you are, explore options, and make new choices to create new healthy patterns. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, ADHD, psychosis, adjustment disorders, panic disorder, social anxiety, substance abuse and dependence, anger issues, trauma recovery, boundaries, codependency, self-worth issues, shame, and grief. I am trained in Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), which is highly effective in healing PTSD, trauma, and other related issues.
(469) 656-7367 View (469) 656-7367
Photo of Monica (Love The Beach) Ferraro, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in McKinney, TX
Monica (Love The Beach) Ferraro
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, CA AMFT, MA/EMDR, DV/P&V, IFS, NP, TX LPCA
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75071  (Online Only)
Welcome Couples and young adults ready to make the "shifts" in life to find THE thing that you're missing. First step, awareness; then reflection and finally forward thinking options. It's scary, but let's examine what is and tackle the fear; THIS is where the biggest growth begins! Neuroplasticity is the tool; you have it. I work with trauma, anxiety, bipolar, depression, grief, sexual abuse/rape, addiction, nonstop thoughts, low self esteem and nightmares. Is peace worth seeking? Let's get after it CA and Texas!
Welcome Couples and young adults ready to make the "shifts" in life to find THE thing that you're missing. First step, awareness; then reflection and finally forward thinking options. It's scary, but let's examine what is and tackle the fear; THIS is where the biggest growth begins! Neuroplasticity is the tool; you have it. I work with trauma, anxiety, bipolar, depression, grief, sexual abuse/rape, addiction, nonstop thoughts, low self esteem and nightmares. Is peace worth seeking? Let's get after it CA and Texas!
(619) 259-6498 View (619) 259-6498
Photo of Manuel Vicente, LPC Associate in McKinney, TX
Manuel Vicente
LPC Associate, MEd
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75071
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate under the supervision of Heidi Johanson, LPC-S. I graduated with a MEd in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Lamar University. I have had experience in working with clients who have depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD/Trauma, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, Domestic violent relationships, substance use disorders and life adjustment stressors. My goal as a counselor is to find a tailored approach to meeting each client's specific needs to help uncover their strength. The years of experience I have in the behavioral health field has helped shaped me to be non judgmental.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate under the supervision of Heidi Johanson, LPC-S. I graduated with a MEd in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Lamar University. I have had experience in working with clients who have depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD/Trauma, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, Domestic violent relationships, substance use disorders and life adjustment stressors. My goal as a counselor is to find a tailored approach to meeting each client's specific needs to help uncover their strength. The years of experience I have in the behavioral health field has helped shaped me to be non judgmental.
(817) 518-6126 View (817) 518-6126
Photo of David L. Falkstein, Ph.D., & Associates, Psychologist in McKinney, TX
David L. Falkstein, Ph.D., & Associates
Psychologist, PhD, LSSP
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070
We have expertise in the areas of ADHD, depression, anxiety, Autism/Aspergers, dyslexia, learning disabilities, and emotional/behavioral disorders (anxiety, depression, Oppositional Defiant, and Bipolar Disorder).
Dr. Falkstein has worked in the mental health field since 1988 and has conducted several thousand evaluations over the past 25 years. Unlike most psychologists, Dr. Falkstein has experience and knowledge as a psychologist in private practice and as a school psychologist actually working in the schools. Dr. Falkstein has a clinical team that works with him that includes 6 other Psychologists and 4 Licensed Professional Counselors. We offer evaluation services and therapy services to children, adolescents, and adults.
We have expertise in the areas of ADHD, depression, anxiety, Autism/Aspergers, dyslexia, learning disabilities, and emotional/behavioral disorders (anxiety, depression, Oppositional Defiant, and Bipolar Disorder).
Dr. Falkstein has worked in the mental health field since 1988 and has conducted several thousand evaluations over the past 25 years. Unlike most psychologists, Dr. Falkstein has experience and knowledge as a psychologist in private practice and as a school psychologist actually working in the schools. Dr. Falkstein has a clinical team that works with him that includes 6 other Psychologists and 4 Licensed Professional Counselors. We offer evaluation services and therapy services to children, adolescents, and adults.
(214) 427-1468 View (214) 427-1468
Photo of Pam Flint, Psychologist in McKinney, TX
Pam Flint
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070
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 Jennifer Brobst, Psychologist in McKinney, TX
Jennifer Brobst
Psychologist, PhD, LSSP
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75069
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and a Licensed Specialist in School Psychology. I love working with adults, teenagers, children, and families. I have experience helping patients with depression, anxiety, bipolar, autism and other developmental disabilities, OCD, ADHD, family concerns, parenting stress, career and academic concerns, as well as traumatic experiences. In addition, I have extensive experience in grief therapy during times of loss, such as in a time of death, divorce, and other significant life changes. I also enjoy working on goals of self-improvement, self-awareness, and compassion with my patients.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and a Licensed Specialist in School Psychology. I love working with adults, teenagers, children, and families. I have experience helping patients with depression, anxiety, bipolar, autism and other developmental disabilities, OCD, ADHD, family concerns, parenting stress, career and academic concerns, as well as traumatic experiences. In addition, I have extensive experience in grief therapy during times of loss, such as in a time of death, divorce, and other significant life changes. I also enjoy working on goals of self-improvement, self-awareness, and compassion with my patients.
(972) 833-0114 View (972) 833-0114
Photo of Hope In Motion, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Hope In Motion, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CCATP
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas. I received my B.S in Clinical/Applied Psychology and my M.S in Clinical/Applied Psychology from Texas A&M University-Commerce. Additionally, I am a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional (CCATP). Throughout my career, I have had experience working with adolescents (16+) and young adults who have depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, gender/identity struggles, and life adjustment stressors.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas. I received my B.S in Clinical/Applied Psychology and my M.S in Clinical/Applied Psychology from Texas A&M University-Commerce. Additionally, I am a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional (CCATP). Throughout my career, I have had experience working with adolescents (16+) and young adults who have depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, gender/identity struggles, and life adjustment stressors.
(214) 865-7553 View (214) 865-7553
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.