Barbara James
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Nederland, TX 77627
In my practice, I don't assume that I have all the answers. I collaborate with you, the client, in a caring, respectful manner to identify personal strengths, areas for improvement and a plan to get there. I view life challenges as "keys to learning" on your life journey. I help others to understand that there is "HOPE" and that effective communication skills, increased personal insight, coping/goal-setting skills are tools you can use to dramatically improve your life and the lives of those around you. Psychotherapy is my passion and I want to help you grow and lead a successful life.
In my practice, I don't assume that I have all the answers. I collaborate with you, the client, in a caring, respectful manner to identify personal strengths, areas for improvement and a plan to get there. I view life challenges as "keys to learning" on your life journey. I help others to understand that there is "HOPE" and that effective communication skills, increased personal insight, coping/goal-setting skills are tools you can use to dramatically improve your life and the lives of those around you. Psychotherapy is my passion and I want to help you grow and lead a successful life.
(409) 515-8156 View (409) 515-8156
Photo of NewPath Therapy & Wellness w/Psychiatry, Licensed Professional Counselor in Nederland, TX
NewPath Therapy & Wellness w/Psychiatry
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Nederland, TX 77627
NOW OFFERING PSYCHIATRY SERVICES. MEDICATION APPOINTMENTS ARE AVAILABLE THE SAME WEEK! At NewPath we know that your journey in life matters! We believe in a collaborative and connected team approach to be the most important quality of our group because you get many brains working for you for the price of one! Our environment is super laid back and we are all down to earth and genuine. Our goal is to create a comfortable place for you to work on feeling better!
NOW OFFERING PSYCHIATRY SERVICES. MEDICATION APPOINTMENTS ARE AVAILABLE THE SAME WEEK! At NewPath we know that your journey in life matters! We believe in a collaborative and connected team approach to be the most important quality of our group because you get many brains working for you for the price of one! Our environment is super laid back and we are all down to earth and genuine. Our goal is to create a comfortable place for you to work on feeling better!
(409) 515-7287 View (409) 515-7287
Photo of Sharon Lackey, Licensed Professional Counselor in Nederland, TX
Sharon Lackey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nederland, TX 77627
Greetings, Let's take a journey together and discover how you can become your best you. You may have experienced challenging situations that are creating obstacles you want to overcome. We can explore ways to help you develop coping skills, build self-confidence, cultivate a strong sense of self and autonomy. Your ability to make changes and establish healthy choices will help you move toward the confident well-defined individual you can be proud of. We can accomplish this goal together.
Greetings, Let's take a journey together and discover how you can become your best you. You may have experienced challenging situations that are creating obstacles you want to overcome. We can explore ways to help you develop coping skills, build self-confidence, cultivate a strong sense of self and autonomy. Your ability to make changes and establish healthy choices will help you move toward the confident well-defined individual you can be proud of. We can accomplish this goal together.
(409) 572-8191 View (409) 572-8191

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Stacie Goran, Licensed Professional Counselor in Nederland, TX
Stacie Goran
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Beaumont, TX 77705
I know how hard it can be to reach out and ask for help! I love to be the non-judgmental, curious, and client-centered person that is there to lift you up and make sense of how things are going in your life. Seeing lives change and people fall in love with themselves and their life again is my absolute favorite thing. We all need a helping hand at times. Don't hesitate to reach out and make your life what you want it to be.
I know how hard it can be to reach out and ask for help! I love to be the non-judgmental, curious, and client-centered person that is there to lift you up and make sense of how things are going in your life. Seeing lives change and people fall in love with themselves and their life again is my absolute favorite thing. We all need a helping hand at times. Don't hesitate to reach out and make your life what you want it to be.
(409) 219-5378 View (409) 219-5378
Photo of Shy Seaman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Nederland, TX
Shy Seaman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beaumont, TX 77701
Negative events have affected each and every one of us at some point. I am committed to digging deep with you in therapy. Are you ready to: cleanse wounds so they can heal? -empower yourself? -learn to cope? -strengthen relationships? Without judgement, I will work with you in the trenches no matter the depths. The counseling relationship is unique because it is non-judgmental and confidential in a safe, supportive environment. Together, we construct your goals. I am challenging and direct in our sessions, resulting in you challenging and understanding yourself while obtaining your goals.
Negative events have affected each and every one of us at some point. I am committed to digging deep with you in therapy. Are you ready to: cleanse wounds so they can heal? -empower yourself? -learn to cope? -strengthen relationships? Without judgement, I will work with you in the trenches no matter the depths. The counseling relationship is unique because it is non-judgmental and confidential in a safe, supportive environment. Together, we construct your goals. I am challenging and direct in our sessions, resulting in you challenging and understanding yourself while obtaining your goals.
(409) 204-0063 View (409) 204-0063
Photo of Larneka Lavalais LPC, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Nederland, TX
Larneka Lavalais LPC, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MEd, CSC, LPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Port Arthur, TX 77642  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I am here to help clients find hope in the midst of their storm. My practice style is client centered, honest, compassionate and enthusiastic. I focus on uncovering my client's strengths, building them up, and encouraging them to live their best life possible.
I am here to help clients find hope in the midst of their storm. My practice style is client centered, honest, compassionate and enthusiastic. I focus on uncovering my client's strengths, building them up, and encouraging them to live their best life possible.
(409) 231-6474 View (409) 231-6474

Online Therapists

Photo of Phil Ginsburg, Licensed Professional Counselor in Nederland, TX
Phil Ginsburg
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMFT, LCDC, CSAT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77065
I have experience with Dual Diagnosis, ADHD, Bipolar Disorders, Major Depression, Anxiety, and Trauma, and Clinical Hypnosis.
I believe that while you are the expert in your own life, that I can help you to expand your view of a problem and to find new possibilities for change. Whether the sessions are with an individual, couple or family, I view you, the client, as being embedded in various relationships. I believe that a person grows in relationships and it is my mission to help you resolve conflict, establish resources and improve relating skills needed to enhance the overall health of your life and your relationships. "To bring anything into your life, imagine that it's already there."
I have experience with Dual Diagnosis, ADHD, Bipolar Disorders, Major Depression, Anxiety, and Trauma, and Clinical Hypnosis.
I believe that while you are the expert in your own life, that I can help you to expand your view of a problem and to find new possibilities for change. Whether the sessions are with an individual, couple or family, I view you, the client, as being embedded in various relationships. I believe that a person grows in relationships and it is my mission to help you resolve conflict, establish resources and improve relating skills needed to enhance the overall health of your life and your relationships. "To bring anything into your life, imagine that it's already there."
(832) 390-0960 View (832) 390-0960
Photo of Ashley-Lauren Smith, LPC-Associate in Nederland, TX
Ashley-Lauren Smith
LPC-Associate, BS, MS
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77055
Smith has a special interest in treating Bipolar Disorder, stress management, and coping skills.
Ashley-Lauren E. Smith is a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate under the supervision of Henry M. Pittman, MA, LMFT, LPC-S, LCDC She assists individuals, couples, or families with general problem areas of distress such as self-esteem, stress management, toxic relationships, communication skills, codependency, problem-solving, depression, anxiety, anger, and other impulsive behaviors.
Smith has a special interest in treating Bipolar Disorder, stress management, and coping skills.
Ashley-Lauren E. Smith is a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate under the supervision of Henry M. Pittman, MA, LMFT, LPC-S, LCDC She assists individuals, couples, or families with general problem areas of distress such as self-esteem, stress management, toxic relationships, communication skills, codependency, problem-solving, depression, anxiety, anger, and other impulsive behaviors.
(832) 219-1409 View (832) 219-1409
Photo of Meg Bellows, Licensed Professional Counselor in Nederland, TX
Meg Bellows
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S, NCC, CART, BCPC
Verified Verified
Spring, TX 77388
My passion is treating clients who have endured trauma. I'm trained in EMDR. I combine EMDR with narrative therapy to help clients resolve and reprocess the traumatic event. I love working with clients who suffer from depression, bipolar, and personality disorders. I also work with couples and families who are in crisis. I am also endorsed by the American Psychotherapy Association as a Board Certified Professional Counselor.
My passion is treating clients who have endured trauma. I'm trained in EMDR. I combine EMDR with narrative therapy to help clients resolve and reprocess the traumatic event. I love working with clients who suffer from depression, bipolar, and personality disorders. I also work with couples and families who are in crisis. I am also endorsed by the American Psychotherapy Association as a Board Certified Professional Counselor.
(561) 935-3543 View (561) 935-3543
Photo of Kerry Adamek, Licensed Professional Counselor in Nederland, TX
Kerry Adamek
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77084
Professional experience 10yrs in practice Stress, Anxiety Addictions Family conflicts Bipolar disorder Depression Additional areas of focus: Antisocial Personality, Autism and Asperger Syndrome, Blended Family Issues, Codependency, Dependent Personality, Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder (DMDD), Divorce and Separation, Domestic Violence, Drug and Alco.
I am licensed in Texas with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, family conflicts, & bipolar disorder. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Professional experience 10yrs in practice Stress, Anxiety Addictions Family conflicts Bipolar disorder Depression Additional areas of focus: Antisocial Personality, Autism and Asperger Syndrome, Blended Family Issues, Codependency, Dependent Personality, Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder (DMDD), Divorce and Separation, Domestic Violence, Drug and Alco.
I am licensed in Texas with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, family conflicts, & bipolar disorder. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
(903) 342-8307 View (903) 342-8307
Photo of Melissa E. Evette Garrett-Moultrie, Licensed Professional Counselor in Nederland, TX
Melissa E. Evette Garrett-Moultrie
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC
Verified Verified
Spring, TX 77373  (Online Only)
I have worked with adult clients with a range of concerns: bipolar disorder, impulse control disorders, marital discord, infidelity, fertility issues, substance abuse, anxiety, depression, postpartum depression, and grief.
I specialize in child, adolescent, and adult mental health services and have practiced in a variety of clinical settings throughout my career. These settings include inpatient acute care, outpatient community-based counseling centers, and schools. My experience also includes working with multicultural and diverse populations across all age groups. I have had the opportunity to work with families who have children on the Autism Spectrum as well as children/adolescents struggling with behavioral concerns and anger management issues. I have a passion for providing psychoeducation to individuals with mental health concerns.
I have worked with adult clients with a range of concerns: bipolar disorder, impulse control disorders, marital discord, infidelity, fertility issues, substance abuse, anxiety, depression, postpartum depression, and grief.
I specialize in child, adolescent, and adult mental health services and have practiced in a variety of clinical settings throughout my career. These settings include inpatient acute care, outpatient community-based counseling centers, and schools. My experience also includes working with multicultural and diverse populations across all age groups. I have had the opportunity to work with families who have children on the Autism Spectrum as well as children/adolescents struggling with behavioral concerns and anger management issues. I have a passion for providing psychoeducation to individuals with mental health concerns.
(832) 210-2619 View (832) 210-2619
Photo of Kathleen Treadway, Licensed Professional Counselor in Nederland, TX
Kathleen Treadway
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, LCDC
Verified Verified
Kingwood, TX 77339  (Online Only)
I have helped adults, adolescents, and families with a broad range of difficulties, including excessive anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, history of domestic violence and/or childhood trauma, etc.
I view counseling as a partnership between the client and myself. I see my role as enabling people to explore ways to heal from emotional hurt, to discover pathways toward more effective and positive ways of thinking, and to adopt helpful patterns of behavior. Through counseling, I help people recognize their strengths; encourage individuals to take responsibility for their feelings, thoughts, and behaviors; and assist people in making and implementing effective decisions. Using an integrative approach to counseling, the techniques I use are cognitive-behavioral, person-centered, solution-focused, and interpersonal. I utilize cognitive-behavioral therapy and family system theories.
I have helped adults, adolescents, and families with a broad range of difficulties, including excessive anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, history of domestic violence and/or childhood trauma, etc.
I view counseling as a partnership between the client and myself. I see my role as enabling people to explore ways to heal from emotional hurt, to discover pathways toward more effective and positive ways of thinking, and to adopt helpful patterns of behavior. Through counseling, I help people recognize their strengths; encourage individuals to take responsibility for their feelings, thoughts, and behaviors; and assist people in making and implementing effective decisions. Using an integrative approach to counseling, the techniques I use are cognitive-behavioral, person-centered, solution-focused, and interpersonal. I utilize cognitive-behavioral therapy and family system theories.
(713) 338-9113 View (713) 338-9113
Photo of Leslie R Davis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Nederland, TX
Leslie R Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, JD, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Montgomery, TX 77316  (Online Only)
I help client's manage mental health challenges, including bipolar symptoms, anxiety, depression, trauma, and addiction.
Perhaps you are seeking a path of self-exploration or struggling with anxiety, depression or low self-esteem. You may need some additional time to talk and make some sense out the barriers to your personal goals. Or you may desire to learn practical skills to cope with your pain. Every person is unique, which means that our time together would be tailored to your particular needs based on cultural background, family dynamics and personal values. Either way, I will be present with you and assist you as you journey toward a meaningful life.
I help client's manage mental health challenges, including bipolar symptoms, anxiety, depression, trauma, and addiction.
Perhaps you are seeking a path of self-exploration or struggling with anxiety, depression or low self-esteem. You may need some additional time to talk and make some sense out the barriers to your personal goals. Or you may desire to learn practical skills to cope with your pain. Every person is unique, which means that our time together would be tailored to your particular needs based on cultural background, family dynamics and personal values. Either way, I will be present with you and assist you as you journey toward a meaningful life.
(415) 366-0587 View (415) 366-0587
Photo of Austin City Family Practice and Mental Health in Nederland, TX
Austin City Family Practice and Mental Health
MD
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77010
Hello, I am a Board Certified Family Physician with an interest in Mental Health and Addiction Medicine. I have extensive experience managing Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, and certain Thought Disorders. I also enjoy treating Opioid Addiction with Suboxone. Many of my skills were developed at the Eastern Pennsylvania Institute and the Drexel Medical School. I will be prescribing antidepressants, anxiety medications, and medications for PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Personality Disorders, and other. I will also share some of the principles I learned at the Institute for Rational Emotive Therapy in NYC.
Hello, I am a Board Certified Family Physician with an interest in Mental Health and Addiction Medicine. I have extensive experience managing Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, and certain Thought Disorders. I also enjoy treating Opioid Addiction with Suboxone. Many of my skills were developed at the Eastern Pennsylvania Institute and the Drexel Medical School. I will be prescribing antidepressants, anxiety medications, and medications for PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Personality Disorders, and other. I will also share some of the principles I learned at the Institute for Rational Emotive Therapy in NYC.
(631) 540-1307 View (631) 540-1307
Photo of Theresa M Coulehan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Nederland, TX
Theresa M Coulehan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77057
Taking the first step toward seeking capable and compassionate mental health help takes courage! It may be one of the most important decisions when experiencing emotional distress of crisis. Terry brings clarity and knowledge to the counseling experience. She is committed in helping clients find hope, healing and stability in a world of overwhelming complexity and unintended stressful life events. Her clinical experience includes working in hospital settings treating a wide variety of mental issues including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and substance dependence. Other areas of practice include grief and teen issues.
Taking the first step toward seeking capable and compassionate mental health help takes courage! It may be one of the most important decisions when experiencing emotional distress of crisis. Terry brings clarity and knowledge to the counseling experience. She is committed in helping clients find hope, healing and stability in a world of overwhelming complexity and unintended stressful life events. Her clinical experience includes working in hospital settings treating a wide variety of mental issues including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and substance dependence. Other areas of practice include grief and teen issues.
(713) 660-8877 View (713) 660-8877
Photo of Ian Baker Thompson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Nederland, TX
Ian Baker Thompson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
The Woodlands, TX 77380
Types of counseling offered are: Individual, Family, Couple, Stress and Anxiety Management, Executive Skills Coaching, Substance Use Disorders, High Functioning Autism, Depression, ADHD, Bipolar, and Personality Disorders.
I am a counselor and co-owner of Third Coast Counseling and Wellness. My masters degree is in Clinical Psychology and I have been working in the behavioral health field for over 10 years. I have worked in both private practice and public mental health services. I treat patients with and without health insurance using evidenced-based practices and down-to-earth sessions.
Types of counseling offered are: Individual, Family, Couple, Stress and Anxiety Management, Executive Skills Coaching, Substance Use Disorders, High Functioning Autism, Depression, ADHD, Bipolar, and Personality Disorders.
I am a counselor and co-owner of Third Coast Counseling and Wellness. My masters degree is in Clinical Psychology and I have been working in the behavioral health field for over 10 years. I have worked in both private practice and public mental health services. I treat patients with and without health insurance using evidenced-based practices and down-to-earth sessions.
(281) 623-4454 View (281) 623-4454
Photo of Corey D Paulson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Nederland, TX
Corey D Paulson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC-S
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77024
His other specialties include treating depression and bipolar disorder, marriage and family counseling, life coaching, and grief therapy.
Corey's therapeutic approach is goal driven and works to identify where his client wishes to grow and then, through careful collaboration, determine how it can be achieved. He works primarily with Reality Therapy, which emphasizes personal control of self, the ability for one to meet their needs in a healthy manner, and the acceptance that the actions one chooses are what makes up one's behavior. He is trained in EMDR and hypnosis and applies both in working with PTSD, trauma, anxiety, and for pain management from physical illness.
His other specialties include treating depression and bipolar disorder, marriage and family counseling, life coaching, and grief therapy.
Corey's therapeutic approach is goal driven and works to identify where his client wishes to grow and then, through careful collaboration, determine how it can be achieved. He works primarily with Reality Therapy, which emphasizes personal control of self, the ability for one to meet their needs in a healthy manner, and the acceptance that the actions one chooses are what makes up one's behavior. He is trained in EMDR and hypnosis and applies both in working with PTSD, trauma, anxiety, and for pain management from physical illness.
(832) 234-9871 View (832) 234-9871
Photo of Austin City Family Practice and Mental Health in Nederland, TX
Austin City Family Practice and Mental Health
MD
Verified Verified
Seabrook, TX 77586  (Online Only)
Greetings, I am a Board Certified Family Doctor with an interest in Mental Health and Addiction Medicine. I have extensive experience managing Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, and certain Thought Disorders. I also enjoy treating Opioid Addiction with Suboxone. Many of my skills were developed at the Eastern Pennsylvania Institute and the Medical College of PA. I will be prescribing antidepressants, anxiety medications, and medications for PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Personality Disorders, and others. I will also share some of the principles I learned at the Institute for Rational Emotive Therapy in NYC.
Greetings, I am a Board Certified Family Doctor with an interest in Mental Health and Addiction Medicine. I have extensive experience managing Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, and certain Thought Disorders. I also enjoy treating Opioid Addiction with Suboxone. Many of my skills were developed at the Eastern Pennsylvania Institute and the Medical College of PA. I will be prescribing antidepressants, anxiety medications, and medications for PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Personality Disorders, and others. I will also share some of the principles I learned at the Institute for Rational Emotive Therapy in NYC.
(507) 509-2171 View (507) 509-2171
Photo of Kayla Meyertons, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Nederland, TX
Kayla Meyertons
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77056
Do you feel stuck? Do mood swings, anxiety, or depression dominate your days? I am here to help. Welcome. I am Kayla, a licensed master social worker practicing at the Ellie Mental Health Tanglewood location. I specialize in treating addiction, depression, anxiety, self-harm, suicidal ideation, bipolar and borderline personality disorder. Together, we will generate a safe, nonjudgmental space to break free from limiting patterns and ideas that may rule your present-day life.
Do you feel stuck? Do mood swings, anxiety, or depression dominate your days? I am here to help. Welcome. I am Kayla, a licensed master social worker practicing at the Ellie Mental Health Tanglewood location. I specialize in treating addiction, depression, anxiety, self-harm, suicidal ideation, bipolar and borderline personality disorder. Together, we will generate a safe, nonjudgmental space to break free from limiting patterns and ideas that may rule your present-day life.
(832) 400-6108 View (832) 400-6108
Photo of Lashana Hernandez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Nederland, TX
Lashana Hernandez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77044
Hi! My name is LaShana, and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 11 years of experience working with individuals from all walks of life. I have experience working through many types of life challenges including mood disorders such as depression and bipolar, anger management, occupational stress and self-esteem issues. My therapy approach is client-centered, and the treatment modalities I prefer to use are cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused, and motivational interviewing.
Hi! My name is LaShana, and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 11 years of experience working with individuals from all walks of life. I have experience working through many types of life challenges including mood disorders such as depression and bipolar, anger management, occupational stress and self-esteem issues. My therapy approach is client-centered, and the treatment modalities I prefer to use are cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused, and motivational interviewing.
(214) 380-1978 View (214) 380-1978

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Nearby Bipolar Disorder Therapists Searches for Nederland

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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.