Photo of Nancy Mayer, Licensed Professional Counselor in Mineola, TX
Nancy Mayer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Mineola, TX 75773
Today our complicated and fast-paced lives are full of pressures that challenge us in countless ways. "How can I find happiness in my marriage?", "How do I cope with...?", and "Why do I feel so out of control?" are some of the questions I hear from clients seeking to understand their life journey and questioning what they can do to reach their true potential - individually, as a couple, or as a family. Soul searching is rarely an easy path to take, yet wanting to achieve an emotionally healthy life is usually the motivator which begins the process.
Today our complicated and fast-paced lives are full of pressures that challenge us in countless ways. "How can I find happiness in my marriage?", "How do I cope with...?", and "Why do I feel so out of control?" are some of the questions I hear from clients seeking to understand their life journey and questioning what they can do to reach their true potential - individually, as a couple, or as a family. Soul searching is rarely an easy path to take, yet wanting to achieve an emotionally healthy life is usually the motivator which begins the process.
(903) 347-0518 View (903) 347-0518

Online Therapists

Photo of De'An Olson Roper, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mineola, 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 Megan Rasmussen, Licensed Professional Counselor in Mineola, 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 Mineola, 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 Samia Geraghty, Licensed Professional Counselor in Mineola, 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 Paul D Myers, Counselor in Mineola, TX
Paul D Myers
Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Frisco, TX 75034
Counseling is my life's calling! I have a background in helping people with the following struggles: depression, anxiety, ADD, bipolar, past abuse, marital or family conflict, parenting issues, troubled teenagers, and career decisions.
I understand your pain, I've been there. I want to help you, your children and, your family make life transformations and create positive change. Imagine freedom from anxiety, the ability to break depression, and a new healthy direction for your life! I've seen great results in my clients and I want to you be the next person I serve to make a positive difference. I counsel from a faith based cognitive behavioral perspective to help you gain control over your thoughts and feelings and overcome the pain that life throws our way.
Counseling is my life's calling! I have a background in helping people with the following struggles: depression, anxiety, ADD, bipolar, past abuse, marital or family conflict, parenting issues, troubled teenagers, and career decisions.
I understand your pain, I've been there. I want to help you, your children and, your family make life transformations and create positive change. Imagine freedom from anxiety, the ability to break depression, and a new healthy direction for your life! I've seen great results in my clients and I want to you be the next person I serve to make a positive difference. I counsel from a faith based cognitive behavioral perspective to help you gain control over your thoughts and feelings and overcome the pain that life throws our way.
(972) 893-9036 View (972) 893-9036
Photo of Pam Flint, Psychologist in Mineola, 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 Krista Woods, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mineola, 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 Teresa Tribett, Licensed Professional Counselor in Mineola, 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 Don Hays PhD, LPC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Mineola, TX
Don Hays PhD, LPC
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75230
I am a licensed counselor and marriage and family therapist with 34 years experience and am equally skilled in dealing with individuals and couples. The problems I deal with most commonly are anxiety, depression, panic attacks, bipolar disorder, individual growth, midlife issues, relationship problems, anger management, conflict negotiation skills, divorce adjustment, blended families and parenting issues. I provide Christian counseling if requested. When working with couples I use John Gottman's research based model for marriage counseling coupled with key concepts of Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)
I am a licensed counselor and marriage and family therapist with 34 years experience and am equally skilled in dealing with individuals and couples. The problems I deal with most commonly are anxiety, depression, panic attacks, bipolar disorder, individual growth, midlife issues, relationship problems, anger management, conflict negotiation skills, divorce adjustment, blended families and parenting issues. I provide Christian counseling if requested. When working with couples I use John Gottman's research based model for marriage counseling coupled with key concepts of Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)
(469) 253-7227 View (469) 253-7227
Photo of David L. Falkstein, Ph.D., & Associates, Psychologist in Mineola, TX
David L. Falkstein, Ph.D., & Associates
Psychologist, PhD, LSSP
Verified Verified
Allen, TX 75013
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 Allison Kelt Salazar, Licensed Professional Counselor in Mineola, TX
Allison Kelt Salazar
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Wylie, TX 75098  (Online Only)
My interest areas include career planning and transitions, stress & coping, adoption, affective disorders, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, depression, domestic violence, grief, adjustment, and coping with medical issues, and personal development.
My goal as a Counselor is to empower and inspire my clients to live a life that is authentic and fulfilling. I believe that everyone has the potential to create positive change in their lives, and I am here to support you on your journey towards personal growth and transformation. My degree is a MS in Counseling Psychology from Texas A&M University. I love how large and diverse Texas is and I am doing all telehealth sessions now to make sure Texans receive help in all corners of the state.
My interest areas include career planning and transitions, stress & coping, adoption, affective disorders, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, depression, domestic violence, grief, adjustment, and coping with medical issues, and personal development.
My goal as a Counselor is to empower and inspire my clients to live a life that is authentic and fulfilling. I believe that everyone has the potential to create positive change in their lives, and I am here to support you on your journey towards personal growth and transformation. My degree is a MS in Counseling Psychology from Texas A&M University. I love how large and diverse Texas is and I am doing all telehealth sessions now to make sure Texans receive help in all corners of the state.
(972) 330-4815 View (972) 330-4815
Photo of Paul Teska, Licensed Professional Counselor in Mineola, TX
Paul Teska
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75254  (Online Only)
Throughout my career, I have probably worked with every single situation in the counseling field. I have worked inpatient, outpatient, and telepatient. I have worked in prisons, jails, psychiatric hospitals, IDD facilities, community MHMR, and community counseling centers. My specialties include drug and alcohol addiction, trauma, major depression, bipolar, schizophrenia, anxiety, stress, marital problems, anger management, and people with LGBTQ issues.
Throughout my career, I have probably worked with every single situation in the counseling field. I have worked inpatient, outpatient, and telepatient. I have worked in prisons, jails, psychiatric hospitals, IDD facilities, community MHMR, and community counseling centers. My specialties include drug and alcohol addiction, trauma, major depression, bipolar, schizophrenia, anxiety, stress, marital problems, anger management, and people with LGBTQ issues.
(936) 243-3569 View (936) 243-3569
Photo of Hati Munetsi, Licensed Professional Counselor in Mineola, 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 Dr. Megan McMillan Rowling, Psychologist in Mineola, TX
Dr. Megan McMillan Rowling
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75206
Dr. Rowling has extensive experience in successfully treating the following: • Issues relating to celebrity, power and success. • Attachment issues. • Chronic interpersonal and relational trauma. • Issues relating to extreme stress. • Work, creativity and career issues. • Relational dynamics and conflicts. Personality disorders including narcissism, dependent and obsessive compulsive personality disorders. • Substance abuse including alcohol abuse, prescription medication dependence, and sexual compulsivity. • Mood disorders including depression and bipolar disorder. •
Dr. Rowling has extensive experience in successfully treating the following: • Issues relating to celebrity, power and success. • Attachment issues. • Chronic interpersonal and relational trauma. • Issues relating to extreme stress. • Work, creativity and career issues. • Relational dynamics and conflicts. Personality disorders including narcissism, dependent and obsessive compulsive personality disorders. • Substance abuse including alcohol abuse, prescription medication dependence, and sexual compulsivity. • Mood disorders including depression and bipolar disorder. •
(872) 231-3318 View (872) 231-3318
Photo of Lifeworks Counseling Center, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Mineola, TX
Lifeworks Counseling Center, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Addison, TX 75001
Lifeworks therapists work with most emotional/psychological disorders; such as, major depression, bipolar, anxiety/PTSD, anger/stress, grief & personality disorders.
Lifeworks Counseling Center, PLLC has been in business since 1992. We provide therapy for ages 4 and up. We have 9 therapists (LPC, LMFT, LCSW) who provide counseling for almost any emotional/mental/spiritual challenge people face in today's culture. We have therapists on most major insurance and EAP panels and also work with private pay clients as well.
Lifeworks therapists work with most emotional/psychological disorders; such as, major depression, bipolar, anxiety/PTSD, anger/stress, grief & personality disorders.
Lifeworks Counseling Center, PLLC has been in business since 1992. We provide therapy for ages 4 and up. We have 9 therapists (LPC, LMFT, LCSW) who provide counseling for almost any emotional/mental/spiritual challenge people face in today's culture. We have therapists on most major insurance and EAP panels and also work with private pay clients as well.
(972) 435-0231 View (972) 435-0231
Photo of Lindsey Grela, Licensed Professional Counselor in Mineola, 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 Yas Farrokh, Licensed Professional Counselor in Mineola, TX
Yas Farrokh
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Carrollton, TX 75010
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and counselor supervisor with over 14 years of clinical experience. I work with adult individuals, adolescents, children, couples and families, using a variety of therapeutic techniques. I have vast experience working with issues related to trauma, depression, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, anger management, mood disorders, anxiety, employment and work place problems, and grief.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and counselor supervisor with over 14 years of clinical experience. I work with adult individuals, adolescents, children, couples and families, using a variety of therapeutic techniques. I have vast experience working with issues related to trauma, depression, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, anger management, mood disorders, anxiety, employment and work place problems, and grief.
(469) 294-8291 View (469) 294-8291
Photo of Casey Leamy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Mineola, 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 Zeeshan Hussain, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Mineola, 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

See more therapy options for Mineola


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.