Photo of Jennifer McDaniel, Licensed Professional Counselor in Mount Vernon, TX
Jennifer McDaniel
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Mount Vernon, TX 75457
Jennifer McDaniel works with clients experiencing trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, substance use disorders, gerontology, change of life, domestic violence, as well as children who have experienced trauma and other challenges with behaviors. I will help provide insight and strategies to aid in positive and motivational change to reach a desired outcome. Modalities are evidence-based and work toward healing. I will provide tools when needed that can be utilized to aid in the process when clients are away from sessions and will support and challenge clients along the path to healing and growth.
Jennifer McDaniel works with clients experiencing trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, substance use disorders, gerontology, change of life, domestic violence, as well as children who have experienced trauma and other challenges with behaviors. I will help provide insight and strategies to aid in positive and motivational change to reach a desired outcome. Modalities are evidence-based and work toward healing. I will provide tools when needed that can be utilized to aid in the process when clients are away from sessions and will support and challenge clients along the path to healing and growth.
(903) 225-8739 View (903) 225-8739
Photo of LaShondra Brown, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mount Vernon, TX
LaShondra Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mount Vernon, TX 75457  (Online Only)
I enjoy the process of helping my clients, besides my vocation, it is my passion and I have been in the social work field for more than a decade. Through online therapy I have had the opportunity to help people both near and far from me. It's time that the fact of going to therapy stopped being stigmatized, so one of my goals is that the client feels comfortable during the process. Telling how we feel does not make us weak, on the contrary, it is the first and most important step to feel better, that is why at One Alkaline Life we have always focused on offering you the best to accompany you in your learning process.
I enjoy the process of helping my clients, besides my vocation, it is my passion and I have been in the social work field for more than a decade. Through online therapy I have had the opportunity to help people both near and far from me. It's time that the fact of going to therapy stopped being stigmatized, so one of my goals is that the client feels comfortable during the process. Telling how we feel does not make us weak, on the contrary, it is the first and most important step to feel better, that is why at One Alkaline Life we have always focused on offering you the best to accompany you in your learning process.
(903) 282-3435 View (903) 282-3435

Online Therapists

Photo of Yassmin Eldouh, Licensed Professional Counselor in Mount Vernon, TX
Yassmin Eldouh
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75204  (Online Only)
Hello and welcome! My area of focus is providing culturally competent counseling to individuals of varying mental health difficulties. I work with clients with various presenting issues, including anxiety and depression, OCD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, and addictions. In addition to being a licensed therapist, I am completing my PhD in counseling. My intersectional identities as an Arab-Asian woman from a Muslim background allows me to experience understanding and empathy for those from varying backgrounds and identities.
Hello and welcome! My area of focus is providing culturally competent counseling to individuals of varying mental health difficulties. I work with clients with various presenting issues, including anxiety and depression, OCD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, and addictions. In addition to being a licensed therapist, I am completing my PhD in counseling. My intersectional identities as an Arab-Asian woman from a Muslim background allows me to experience understanding and empathy for those from varying backgrounds and identities.
(940) 329-2591 View (940) 329-2591
Photo of Landry Therapy Group, Psychologist in Mount Vernon, TX
Landry Therapy Group
Psychologist, LPC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75206  (Online Only)
Therapy services for marital/couple, anxiety, depression, PTSD, self-injury, suicidal ideation/attempt, bipolar disorder, lesbian, gay, bi-sexual, transgender issues, & general life stresses & stressors.
Taking New Patients! We have over 25 years experience working with children and families performing comprehensive psychological valuations. Results of these evaluations can assist mental health professionals, medical personnel, educators, and members of treatment teams to help a client progress & have a better quality of life. : Our therapy goal is to form a bond of trust and commitment with our clients. With the proper support and guidance, we believe people have an inherent ability to persevere through any struggle with which they are confronted.
Therapy services for marital/couple, anxiety, depression, PTSD, self-injury, suicidal ideation/attempt, bipolar disorder, lesbian, gay, bi-sexual, transgender issues, & general life stresses & stressors.
Taking New Patients! We have over 25 years experience working with children and families performing comprehensive psychological valuations. Results of these evaluations can assist mental health professionals, medical personnel, educators, and members of treatment teams to help a client progress & have a better quality of life. : Our therapy goal is to form a bond of trust and commitment with our clients. With the proper support and guidance, we believe people have an inherent ability to persevere through any struggle with which they are confronted.
(469) 933-0570 View (469) 933-0570
Photo of Crystal Dao, Licensed Professional Counselor in Mount Vernon, TX
Crystal Dao
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75024
I specialize in treating adults and adolescents struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, trauma, and PTSD. I have experience working with individuals with Bipolar Disorder, self-harm, and disordered eating. My approach combines various therapeutic techniques to assist you in achieving your goals and finding healing.
I specialize in treating adults and adolescents struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, trauma, and PTSD. I have experience working with individuals with Bipolar Disorder, self-harm, and disordered eating. My approach combines various therapeutic techniques to assist you in achieving your goals and finding healing.
(469) 966-1734 View (469) 966-1734
Photo of Rachel Gerbosi, Licensed Professional Counselor in Mount Vernon, TX
Rachel Gerbosi
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LMFT, LCDC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75252  (Online Only)
My experience includes, 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.
My first priority in the counseling process is to ensure a trusting therapeutic relationship between you and I. No two people are the same, and it is my mission for us to work together to establish goals that are personalized to fit your unique needs. We, as individuals, encounter challenges in life that cause us to feel overwhelmed. It is important for me to help you see your potential, finding meaning and direction in your life, through positive encouragement. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, and Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor, in the state of Texas.
My experience includes, 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.
My first priority in the counseling process is to ensure a trusting therapeutic relationship between you and I. No two people are the same, and it is my mission for us to work together to establish goals that are personalized to fit your unique needs. We, as individuals, encounter challenges in life that cause us to feel overwhelmed. It is important for me to help you see your potential, finding meaning and direction in your life, through positive encouragement. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, and Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor, in the state of Texas.
(469) 294-8589 View (469) 294-8589
Photo of Jordan Doyle, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Mount Vernon, TX
Jordan Doyle
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Frisco, TX 75035
I specialize in treating: suicidal ideation, self-harm, substance use/addiction, disordered eating, & emotion regulation concerns that accompany depression, anxiety, bipolar, & trauma/PTSD. There's an exhaustion & isolation that often come with these struggles. Clients I work with may feel trapped in a cycle, simultaneously yearning for change and fearing it. These behaviors & feelings can become deeply ingrained in one's identity, making the idea of letting go daunting. I want my clients to know there's more to them than their struggles. I'm here to support and guide them as they uncover their resilience and empowerment.
I specialize in treating: suicidal ideation, self-harm, substance use/addiction, disordered eating, & emotion regulation concerns that accompany depression, anxiety, bipolar, & trauma/PTSD. There's an exhaustion & isolation that often come with these struggles. Clients I work with may feel trapped in a cycle, simultaneously yearning for change and fearing it. These behaviors & feelings can become deeply ingrained in one's identity, making the idea of letting go daunting. I want my clients to know there's more to them than their struggles. I'm here to support and guide them as they uncover their resilience and empowerment.
(469) 645-8944 View (469) 645-8944
Photo of Joyce Loretta Caldwell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Mount Vernon, TX
Joyce Loretta Caldwell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, TX 75766  (Online Only)
depression, anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, and Bipolar I and II).
I have worked for 25 years in the mental health field, during this time, I have learned how to help individuals who struggle with depression, anxiety, life challenges, and trauma.
depression, anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, and Bipolar I and II).
I have worked for 25 years in the mental health field, during this time, I have learned how to help individuals who struggle with depression, anxiety, life challenges, and trauma.
(903) 568-8043 View (903) 568-8043
Photo of Teresa Tribett, Licensed Professional Counselor in Mount Vernon, 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 Yas Farrokh, Licensed Professional Counselor in Mount Vernon, 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 Caitlin Young, Licensed Professional Counselor in Mount Vernon, TX
Caitlin Young
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75204  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating adults and adolescents with anxiety, depression, life transitions, and PTSD. I also have experience working with Bipolar Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, personality disorders, and disordered eating. My therapeutic approach revolves around person-centered care and incorporates mindfulness techniques to help you develop resiliency and make empowering life decisions. I deeply empathize with your experiences and attentively listen to your concerns, creating a safe space for open communication and building trust.
I specialize in treating adults and adolescents with anxiety, depression, life transitions, and PTSD. I also have experience working with Bipolar Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, personality disorders, and disordered eating. My therapeutic approach revolves around person-centered care and incorporates mindfulness techniques to help you develop resiliency and make empowering life decisions. I deeply empathize with your experiences and attentively listen to your concerns, creating a safe space for open communication and building trust.
(512) 768-2731 View (512) 768-2731
Photo of Dorothy Seely, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mount Vernon, TX
Dorothy Seely
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rockwall, TX 75087  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and trauma in adults and seniors. I firmly believe that understanding the underlying reasons behind behaviors is crucial for the healing process. I have also worked extensively with addiction, chronic illness, life transitions, grief, and loss. I have experience working with neurodivergent individuals. Creating a welcoming and encouraging space is important to me, as it allows for open discussions about your unique journey.
I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and trauma in adults and seniors. I firmly believe that understanding the underlying reasons behind behaviors is crucial for the healing process. I have also worked extensively with addiction, chronic illness, life transitions, grief, and loss. I have experience working with neurodivergent individuals. Creating a welcoming and encouraging space is important to me, as it allows for open discussions about your unique journey.
(512) 768-2731 View (512) 768-2731
Photo of Allison Ondocsin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Mount Vernon, TX
Allison Ondocsin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75219
My practice consists of individuals and couples with a large range of experiences including: anxiety, depression, eating disorders, bipolar disorder, feeling stuck, life transitions, loss, trauma, infidelity, work frustration, sexual dissatisfaction, and relationship conflicts.
You've already taken a brave step. Seeking therapy means you have a desire to engage in life in a different way. Across their diverse backgrounds, my clients have all decided they want something more, and I have the privilege of watching them get there. By establishing a safe space for expression and exploration, I'll join you as you tolerate and, when ready, lean into uncomfortable thoughts, feelings and experiences. I empower clients by supporting them as they integrate techniques associated with overcoming challenges, increasing resilience and joy, building courage to challenge fears, and living more wholeheartedly.
My practice consists of individuals and couples with a large range of experiences including: anxiety, depression, eating disorders, bipolar disorder, feeling stuck, life transitions, loss, trauma, infidelity, work frustration, sexual dissatisfaction, and relationship conflicts.
You've already taken a brave step. Seeking therapy means you have a desire to engage in life in a different way. Across their diverse backgrounds, my clients have all decided they want something more, and I have the privilege of watching them get there. By establishing a safe space for expression and exploration, I'll join you as you tolerate and, when ready, lean into uncomfortable thoughts, feelings and experiences. I empower clients by supporting them as they integrate techniques associated with overcoming challenges, increasing resilience and joy, building courage to challenge fears, and living more wholeheartedly.
(972) 694-4333 View (972) 694-4333
Photo of Dr. Reed J. Robinson, Psychologist in Mount Vernon, TX
Dr. Reed J. Robinson
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75219
Robinson has extensive expertise in the treatment of major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, anxiety, PTSD, and substance use disorders.
Dr. Robinson is board certified in Clinical Psychology and has been practicing psychology and providing evidence-based therapies for over 15 years. Prior to opening his private practice, he had a distinguished career as a clinician and clinical leader at the Dallas VA (where he served as Assistant Chief of Psychology) and then UT Southwestern Medical Center (where we was Director of Psychology Services and continues to serve as an Associate Professor in the Dept of Psychiatry.
Robinson has extensive expertise in the treatment of major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, anxiety, PTSD, and substance use disorders.
Dr. Robinson is board certified in Clinical Psychology and has been practicing psychology and providing evidence-based therapies for over 15 years. Prior to opening his private practice, he had a distinguished career as a clinician and clinical leader at the Dallas VA (where he served as Assistant Chief of Psychology) and then UT Southwestern Medical Center (where we was Director of Psychology Services and continues to serve as an Associate Professor in the Dept of Psychiatry.
(469) 373-7886 View (469) 373-7886
Photo of Cynthia Gump, LPC-Associate in Mount Vernon, TX
Cynthia Gump
LPC-Associate
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75206
I have experience in helping individuals navigate the complexities of bipolar, substance use, and borderline personality tendencies.
I am an LPC-Associate at Dallas Therapy Associates. My approach to therapy is holistic and based in the idea that a person exists and interacts wtih their world as part of a dynamic system of personal relationships, vocational pursuits, and internal needs. I recognize the courage it takes to pursue a therapeutic relationship and I view therapy as an opportunity to help empower individuals to advocate for themselves.
I have experience in helping individuals navigate the complexities of bipolar, substance use, and borderline personality tendencies.
I am an LPC-Associate at Dallas Therapy Associates. My approach to therapy is holistic and based in the idea that a person exists and interacts wtih their world as part of a dynamic system of personal relationships, vocational pursuits, and internal needs. I recognize the courage it takes to pursue a therapeutic relationship and I view therapy as an opportunity to help empower individuals to advocate for themselves.
(469) 414-9405 View (469) 414-9405
Photo of Lisa Toth, Counselor in Mount Vernon, TX
Lisa Toth
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Winnsboro, TX 75494
Hello, my name is Lisa Toth. I am a licensed mental health counselor in the state of Indiana. I collaboratively work with clients to set and achieve their goals. I am passionate to help those who are hurting, those who seek healing, and those who desire to change. I typically work with adult individuals (ages 18 and older). The most common conditions that I see are those struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, Bipolar Disorders, and adjustment disorders/transition of life stages, etc. I also have a passion for faith/spirituality and welcome this if clients would like to incorporate this into counseling.
Hello, my name is Lisa Toth. I am a licensed mental health counselor in the state of Indiana. I collaboratively work with clients to set and achieve their goals. I am passionate to help those who are hurting, those who seek healing, and those who desire to change. I typically work with adult individuals (ages 18 and older). The most common conditions that I see are those struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, Bipolar Disorders, and adjustment disorders/transition of life stages, etc. I also have a passion for faith/spirituality and welcome this if clients would like to incorporate this into counseling.
(903) 403-2861 View (903) 403-2861
Photo of Natalie Cole, Licensed Professional Counselor in Mount Vernon, 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 Lauren Jones, Licensed Professional Counselor in Mount Vernon, TX
Lauren Jones
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75024
I specialize in working with adults, teens, and children who are dealing with a wide range of treatment issues. This includes disordered eating, OCD, depression, PTSD, anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, personality disorders, sexual abuse, life adjustment issues, gender/identity, addiction, and relationships. As your therapist, I strive to create an engaging and comfortable environment where you feel at ease opening up and sharing. Together, we establish clear treatment goals that are tailored to your individual needs and circumstances.
I specialize in working with adults, teens, and children who are dealing with a wide range of treatment issues. This includes disordered eating, OCD, depression, PTSD, anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, personality disorders, sexual abuse, life adjustment issues, gender/identity, addiction, and relationships. As your therapist, I strive to create an engaging and comfortable environment where you feel at ease opening up and sharing. Together, we establish clear treatment goals that are tailored to your individual needs and circumstances.
(512) 768-2731 View (512) 768-2731
Photo of Connie M. Siciliano Avila, Psychologist in Mount Vernon, TX
Connie M. Siciliano Avila
Psychologist, PhD, LP, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Rockwall, TX 75087
My focus is on trauma, addiction, and relationships. Do you want to get control of your life, emotions or lack of emotions, stop problem behaviors, improve self-esteem, improve relationships, cope, and stop harmful thoughts? I have extensive experience in clinical and nonclinical settings with issues, such as abuse, relationships, addictions, depression, anxiety, dissociation, PTSD, alcohol abuse, and bipolar disorders. Also, past client concerns included: personality disorders, grief, anger, divorce, parenting, codependency, GLBTQ, multicultural, spiritual, DID, and men/women issues. Call for a free consultation.
My focus is on trauma, addiction, and relationships. Do you want to get control of your life, emotions or lack of emotions, stop problem behaviors, improve self-esteem, improve relationships, cope, and stop harmful thoughts? I have extensive experience in clinical and nonclinical settings with issues, such as abuse, relationships, addictions, depression, anxiety, dissociation, PTSD, alcohol abuse, and bipolar disorders. Also, past client concerns included: personality disorders, grief, anger, divorce, parenting, codependency, GLBTQ, multicultural, spiritual, DID, and men/women issues. Call for a free consultation.
(214) 830-9879 View (214) 830-9879
Photo of Laurie Todd, Licensed Professional Counselor in Mount Vernon, 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

See more therapy options for Mount Vernon

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.