Photo of Jonette Phegley, LPC Associate in Somervell County, TX
Jonette Phegley
LPC Associate, MA, LPC-A
Verified Verified
Glen Rose, TX 76043
Let's take a walk! Farmhouse Counseling blends therapy with the outdoors. Looking for professional, person-centered, compassionate counseling? Warmth and acceptance are key! Using an eclectic approach, I'll help you identify unwanted thoughts and behaviors to set and meet personal life goals. I work with kids, adolescents, and adults of all ages and often incorporate farm animals, crafts and the outdoors into counseling. Sitting on several restful acres in the heart of Glen Rose, Farmhouse Counseling strives to meet the needs of clients who want to grow and heal.
Let's take a walk! Farmhouse Counseling blends therapy with the outdoors. Looking for professional, person-centered, compassionate counseling? Warmth and acceptance are key! Using an eclectic approach, I'll help you identify unwanted thoughts and behaviors to set and meet personal life goals. I work with kids, adolescents, and adults of all ages and often incorporate farm animals, crafts and the outdoors into counseling. Sitting on several restful acres in the heart of Glen Rose, Farmhouse Counseling strives to meet the needs of clients who want to grow and heal.
(254) 276-3588 View (254) 276-3588

Online Therapists

Photo of Francine Esquiliano, Licensed Professional Counselor in Somervell County, TX
Francine Esquiliano
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Flower Mound, TX 75028
Through the use of these skillsI am able to treat adjustment disorder, borderline personality, depression, anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Major Depressive disorder, personality disorders, schizophrenia, general anxiety disorder, and substance use disorders.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Texas. I earned my Master’s degree in Counseling at Southwestern Adventist University while working at the local mental health authority Pecan Valley Centers in Cleburne, TX. I worked as a case manager, LPC-Intern, and an on-call crisis responder. I was trained using Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) among many other trainings. I worked at The Johnson County Children's Advocacy Center as a counselor where I was fully trained in Trauma Focused – Cognitive Behavior Therapy (TFCBT) and Play Therapy. At the advocacy center I worked primarily with youths who suffer from trauma.
Through the use of these skillsI am able to treat adjustment disorder, borderline personality, depression, anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Major Depressive disorder, personality disorders, schizophrenia, general anxiety disorder, and substance use disorders.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Texas. I earned my Master’s degree in Counseling at Southwestern Adventist University while working at the local mental health authority Pecan Valley Centers in Cleburne, TX. I worked as a case manager, LPC-Intern, and an on-call crisis responder. I was trained using Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) among many other trainings. I worked at The Johnson County Children's Advocacy Center as a counselor where I was fully trained in Trauma Focused – Cognitive Behavior Therapy (TFCBT) and Play Therapy. At the advocacy center I worked primarily with youths who suffer from trauma.
(817) 662-4590 View (817) 662-4590
Photo of Christian Hudson Wallis, Licensed Professional Counselor in Somervell County, TX
Christian Hudson Wallis
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76104  (Online Only)
Christian Hudson-Wallis is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Texas with over 5 years of professional experience assisting clients of all ages to cope with the effects of anxiety, depression, anger, bipolar disorder, trauma, and PTSD. Christian earned her Master's degree in Family Psychology from Hardin-Simmons University. Christian is skilled in using cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), humanistic techniques, Rogerian methods, existential therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), the Gottman Method, and acceptance and commitment (ACT) approaches.
Christian Hudson-Wallis is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Texas with over 5 years of professional experience assisting clients of all ages to cope with the effects of anxiety, depression, anger, bipolar disorder, trauma, and PTSD. Christian earned her Master's degree in Family Psychology from Hardin-Simmons University. Christian is skilled in using cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), humanistic techniques, Rogerian methods, existential therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), the Gottman Method, and acceptance and commitment (ACT) approaches.
(817) 330-6831 View (817) 330-6831
Photo of Rob Novick, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Somervell County, TX
Rob Novick, LCSW-S
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, MSSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
Additionally, I help those diagnosed with a mental illness, like Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective Disorder, and Bipolar.
Starting therapy for the first time or finding a new therapist can be stressful and anxiety-provoking. My goal is to help you feel comfortable from our first conversation. I believe everyone has the capability and strength to face whatever life has to offer, even when it seems overwhelming. By providing a safe, warm, caring environment, my clients can freely express themselves without judgment. I actively participate in my client's treatment by offering reflections, suggestions, ideas, and homework. My main therapeutic approach is cognitive behavioral, along with mindfulness, and solution-focused therapy.
Additionally, I help those diagnosed with a mental illness, like Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective Disorder, and Bipolar.
Starting therapy for the first time or finding a new therapist can be stressful and anxiety-provoking. My goal is to help you feel comfortable from our first conversation. I believe everyone has the capability and strength to face whatever life has to offer, even when it seems overwhelming. By providing a safe, warm, caring environment, my clients can freely express themselves without judgment. I actively participate in my client's treatment by offering reflections, suggestions, ideas, and homework. My main therapeutic approach is cognitive behavioral, along with mindfulness, and solution-focused therapy.
(214) 740-3929 View (214) 740-3929
Photo of Lindsey Grela, Licensed Professional Counselor in Somervell County, 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 Marci'a Blake, Licensed Professional Counselor in Somervell County, TX
Marci'a Blake
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with nearly 15 years of experience helping people navigate the difficult seasons of life. I place a high value on rapport building and strongly believe that each client is an expert on themselves. I have a wide range of skills helping adolescents and adults with issues such as depression, anxiety, bipolar, grief and loss, borderline personality disorder, trauma, school related issues, adjustment and substance use disorders.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with nearly 15 years of experience helping people navigate the difficult seasons of life. I place a high value on rapport building and strongly believe that each client is an expert on themselves. I have a wide range of skills helping adolescents and adults with issues such as depression, anxiety, bipolar, grief and loss, borderline personality disorder, trauma, school related issues, adjustment and substance use disorders.
(469) 529-6022 View (469) 529-6022
Photo of Paul R. Cuppett, PsyD, Licensed Psychologist, Psychologist in Somervell County, TX
Paul R. Cuppett, PsyD, Licensed Psychologist
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Mansfield, TX 76063
When needed, psychological testing is conducted for diagnosing and treating learning difficulties, behavior and mood problems, depression, bipolar disorder and other psychiatric difficulties.
People generally don't seek out therapy when life or circumstances are going as they hoped or expected. For over 25 years, the practice of psychology has been my chosen profession. I consider it an honor to assist people in better understanding their circumstances and in identifying a path that can lead to growth and healing.
When needed, psychological testing is conducted for diagnosing and treating learning difficulties, behavior and mood problems, depression, bipolar disorder and other psychiatric difficulties.
People generally don't seek out therapy when life or circumstances are going as they hoped or expected. For over 25 years, the practice of psychology has been my chosen profession. I consider it an honor to assist people in better understanding their circumstances and in identifying a path that can lead to growth and healing.
(817) 264-7851 View (817) 264-7851
Photo of Laurie Todd, Licensed Professional Counselor in Somervell County, TX
Laurie Todd
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75071
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor in the state of Texas. I graduated with a MS in Counseling from Southern Methodist University. Throughout my career I have had experience in working with clients who have depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, dissociative identity disorder, schizoaffective disorder, gender/identity struggles, life adjustment stressors, grief, phobias, and PTSD/trauma. I am trained to treat clients with PTSD and trauma through Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM).
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor in the state of Texas. I graduated with a MS in Counseling from Southern Methodist University. Throughout my career I have had experience in working with clients who have depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, dissociative identity disorder, schizoaffective disorder, gender/identity struggles, life adjustment stressors, grief, phobias, and PTSD/trauma. I am trained to treat clients with PTSD and trauma through Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM).
(702) 766-4674 View (702) 766-4674
Photo of Moran Baxter, Licensed Professional Counselor in Somervell County, TX
Moran Baxter
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Flower Mound, TX 75028
My area of expertise lies in assisting adults facing a wide spectrum of mental health hurdles, including trauma, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and substance abuse.
Hello there! I have a heartfelt passion for helping individuals navigate their mental health challenges. I earned my Master's degree at Towson University in Maryland, but I've embraced the Texan way of life and am proud to call it home.
My area of expertise lies in assisting adults facing a wide spectrum of mental health hurdles, including trauma, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and substance abuse.
Hello there! I have a heartfelt passion for helping individuals navigate their mental health challenges. I earned my Master's degree at Towson University in Maryland, but I've embraced the Texan way of life and am proud to call it home.
(972) 430-7913 View (972) 430-7913
Photo of Jessica Corsaro, Licensed Professional Counselor in Somervell County, TX
Jessica Corsaro
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75075
My specialties include: Adults of all ages, Anxiety, Self-esteem, Trauma, Veterans, Personality Disorders, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Self-harm and Depression.
If you are looking for a genuine, down-to-earth, non-judgmental counselor, then look no further! I have a special interest in helping people who are having a difficult time navigating life challenges, especially anyone from young adults to older adults. Another aspect of my work that I enjoy is working with clients who suffer from Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, PTSD, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and Hoarding Disorder.
My specialties include: Adults of all ages, Anxiety, Self-esteem, Trauma, Veterans, Personality Disorders, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Self-harm and Depression.
If you are looking for a genuine, down-to-earth, non-judgmental counselor, then look no further! I have a special interest in helping people who are having a difficult time navigating life challenges, especially anyone from young adults to older adults. Another aspect of my work that I enjoy is working with clients who suffer from Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, PTSD, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and Hoarding Disorder.
(972) 885-6650 View (972) 885-6650
Photo of Glynis Park, Licensed Professional Counselor in Somervell County, TX
Glynis Park
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75024
Glynis has been in the mental health industry for 30 years as a school counselor and teacher, advocate for special needs and gymnastics coach, foster care services, and individual therapy. Glynis’s specialties include Adoptions, Anger, ADHD/ ADD, Anxiety, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Behavior Concerns, Bipolar, Career Coaching, Chronic Disabilities, Coping, Depression, Divorce, Education and Learning disabilities, Family conflict, OCD, Parenting, School Issues, Self-esteem, Sexual Abuse, Sports Performance, LGBTQIA+, Trauma and PTSD, Weight loss, and Womens & Men's Issues. She enjoys working with children ages 4 to 12 and Adults.
Glynis has been in the mental health industry for 30 years as a school counselor and teacher, advocate for special needs and gymnastics coach, foster care services, and individual therapy. Glynis’s specialties include Adoptions, Anger, ADHD/ ADD, Anxiety, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Behavior Concerns, Bipolar, Career Coaching, Chronic Disabilities, Coping, Depression, Divorce, Education and Learning disabilities, Family conflict, OCD, Parenting, School Issues, Self-esteem, Sexual Abuse, Sports Performance, LGBTQIA+, Trauma and PTSD, Weight loss, and Womens & Men's Issues. She enjoys working with children ages 4 to 12 and Adults.
(469) 824-9647 View (469) 824-9647
Photo of Monique M Thompson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Somervell County, TX
Monique M Thompson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LPC-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Frisco, TX 75034
I also offer traditional general mental health counseling for depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder.
Same or Next Day Appointments Available. I am a Mental Health Expert in my 21st year as a psychotherapist.
I also offer traditional general mental health counseling for depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder.
Same or Next Day Appointments Available. I am a Mental Health Expert in my 21st year as a psychotherapist.
(469) 470-9011 View (469) 470-9011
Photo of Kristina McCray, Licensed Professional Counselor in Somervell County, TX
Kristina McCray
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LSSP
Verified Verified
Richardson, TX 75082
Kristina McCray is a licensed professional counselor with over 15 years of experience working as a mental health professional. She has experience with working with people of all ages, cultures, and backgrounds on a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, OCD, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, Autism Spectrum Disorder, personality disorders, substance addiction, identity problems, self-esteem problems, domestic, sexual abuse, ADHD, etc. Kristina also has helped many people who have experienced physical and emotional trauma. Moreover, Kristina is a School Psychologist.
Kristina McCray is a licensed professional counselor with over 15 years of experience working as a mental health professional. She has experience with working with people of all ages, cultures, and backgrounds on a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, OCD, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, Autism Spectrum Disorder, personality disorders, substance addiction, identity problems, self-esteem problems, domestic, sexual abuse, ADHD, etc. Kristina also has helped many people who have experienced physical and emotional trauma. Moreover, Kristina is a School Psychologist.
(512) 883-7116 View (512) 883-7116
Photo of Deanna Sims, Licensed Professional Counselor in Somervell County, TX
Deanna Sims
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75248
I enjoy working with individuals with Bipolar Disorder to help them develop a treatment plan and to provide useful education about the disorder. Accurate information is critical in developing acceptance of the disorder and fighting stigma. Regarding infidelity, I work to help the patient(s) heal from the trauma and heartbreak of infidelity. Managing anger or obsessive thoughts, learning to be vulnerable again, and developing forgiveness are important goals for the betrayed spouse, whether separating or reconciling. Rebuilding trust, adhering to total honesty (the hallmark of healing), and being behaviorally accountable are tasks that I help the straying spouse develop.
I enjoy working with individuals with Bipolar Disorder to help them develop a treatment plan and to provide useful education about the disorder. Accurate information is critical in developing acceptance of the disorder and fighting stigma. Regarding infidelity, I work to help the patient(s) heal from the trauma and heartbreak of infidelity. Managing anger or obsessive thoughts, learning to be vulnerable again, and developing forgiveness are important goals for the betrayed spouse, whether separating or reconciling. Rebuilding trust, adhering to total honesty (the hallmark of healing), and being behaviorally accountable are tasks that I help the straying spouse develop.
(972) 805-1545 View (972) 805-1545
Photo of Sophia Creede, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Somervell County, TX
Sophia Creede
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75254  (Online Only)
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I bring a wealth of expertise to the therapeutic space. I earned my Bachelor's in Psychology from the esteemed University of Texas at Austin and furthered my education with a Master's in Social Work from the University of Houston. My professional journey has encompassed working with diverse populations facing a spectrum of challenges, including individuals navigating trauma, chronic health conditions, LGBTIQA+, PTSD, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, and the complexities of reintegration after extended prison sentences.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I bring a wealth of expertise to the therapeutic space. I earned my Bachelor's in Psychology from the esteemed University of Texas at Austin and furthered my education with a Master's in Social Work from the University of Houston. My professional journey has encompassed working with diverse populations facing a spectrum of challenges, including individuals navigating trauma, chronic health conditions, LGBTIQA+, PTSD, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, and the complexities of reintegration after extended prison sentences.
(832) 346-7386 View (832) 346-7386
Photo of Joy Fuller, Licensed Professional Counselor in Somervell County, TX
Joy Fuller
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCLC
Verified Verified
Flower Mound, TX 75028
I use positive, individualized therapeutic approaches to help my clients heal from anxiety, depression, bipolar, trauma, and personality disorders. I also offer marital and premarital counseling.
I use positive, individualized therapeutic approaches to help my clients heal from anxiety, depression, bipolar, trauma, and personality disorders. I also offer marital and premarital counseling.
(214) 377-1547 View (214) 377-1547
Photo of Healing Mind Psychiatry PLLC in Somervell County, TX
Healing Mind Psychiatry PLLC
PA-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75248
Now Accepting NEW Clients! Welcome to Healing Mind Psychiatry, where our goal is to offer compassionate, thorough, and individualized mental health services. We know how intimidating it might be to seek professional assistance for mental health issues. Our clinic offers a wide range of services to both adolescents and adults dealing with a variety of mental health conditions. As a result, our team of skilled mental health providers are committed to fostering a secure and welcoming environment for every client who enters our doors. From depression and anxiety, bipolar illness & ADHD, our specialists have the knowledge to help you.
Now Accepting NEW Clients! Welcome to Healing Mind Psychiatry, where our goal is to offer compassionate, thorough, and individualized mental health services. We know how intimidating it might be to seek professional assistance for mental health issues. Our clinic offers a wide range of services to both adolescents and adults dealing with a variety of mental health conditions. As a result, our team of skilled mental health providers are committed to fostering a secure and welcoming environment for every client who enters our doors. From depression and anxiety, bipolar illness & ADHD, our specialists have the knowledge to help you.
(214) 241-4684 View (214) 241-4684
Photo of Danielle Brockelman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Somervell County, TX
Danielle Brockelman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Southlake, TX 76092
Most of my clients are simply looking for a therapist to walk through a difficult stage of life with them, and I consider it an honor to be given that opportunity. I specialize in the treatment of relationships, depression, anxiety, emotional/physical/sexual trauma, addictions and PTSD. I also have a great deal of experience working with those with Bipolar Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, suicidal ideation, self-harm, and grief/loss. I work with adult individuals, teens and families. I am an ally of the LGBT+ community, and work with individuals in any type of relationship.
Most of my clients are simply looking for a therapist to walk through a difficult stage of life with them, and I consider it an honor to be given that opportunity. I specialize in the treatment of relationships, depression, anxiety, emotional/physical/sexual trauma, addictions and PTSD. I also have a great deal of experience working with those with Bipolar Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, suicidal ideation, self-harm, and grief/loss. I work with adult individuals, teens and families. I am an ally of the LGBT+ community, and work with individuals in any type of relationship.
(817) 396-7466 View (817) 396-7466
Photo of Keyna Omenukor in Somervell County, TX
Keyna Omenukor
PMHNPBC, NP-C
Verified Verified
Mesquite, TX 75150
Keyna Omenukor is a Dual Board-Certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She is equipped with the necessary skills to deliver compassionate and empathic mental care to all ages. Her area of specialty includes Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, ADHD, Trauma. She also offers supportive therapy. Dr Keyna graduated from Walden University with Masters & Doctorate degree in Nursing, and Brandman University with her Post-Doctorate degree in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner degree. If you feel stressed and overwhelmed with life reach out to her.
Keyna Omenukor is a Dual Board-Certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She is equipped with the necessary skills to deliver compassionate and empathic mental care to all ages. Her area of specialty includes Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, ADHD, Trauma. She also offers supportive therapy. Dr Keyna graduated from Walden University with Masters & Doctorate degree in Nursing, and Brandman University with her Post-Doctorate degree in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner degree. If you feel stressed and overwhelmed with life reach out to her.
(972) 960-3797 View (972) 960-3797
Photo of Peter T Cosens, Licensed Professional Counselor in Somervell County, TX
Peter T Cosens
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSc, LPC, LDCD, NCC, LPHA
Verified Verified
Duncanville, TX 75137
The decision to seek therapy is a very personal decision. Often, people choose therapy during times of stress & emotional pain. It may also be when you want to grow & mature. I'm experienced in treating an array of issues & disorders, including, but not limited to: · Addictions (Substance and Process) · Major Depression Disorder · Adult Children of Alcoholics · Men's Issues · Military/Veterans · Anxiety Disorders · Mood Disorder · Bipolar Disorder · Panic Disorders - Co-dependence · Personal Growth · Crisis/Trauma Recovery · Schizoaffective Disorder · Dually Diagnosed Individuals · Schizophrenia · Ex-offenders · Self-Esteem - Grief/Loss Counseling · Spirituality · Impaired Professionals · Stress Management · Life Events/Transitions · Substance Abuse/Dependence
The decision to seek therapy is a very personal decision. Often, people choose therapy during times of stress & emotional pain. It may also be when you want to grow & mature. I'm experienced in treating an array of issues & disorders, including, but not limited to: · Addictions (Substance and Process) · Major Depression Disorder · Adult Children of Alcoholics · Men's Issues · Military/Veterans · Anxiety Disorders · Mood Disorder · Bipolar Disorder · Panic Disorders - Co-dependence · Personal Growth · Crisis/Trauma Recovery · Schizoaffective Disorder · Dually Diagnosed Individuals · Schizophrenia · Ex-offenders · Self-Esteem - Grief/Loss Counseling · Spirituality · Impaired Professionals · Stress Management · Life Events/Transitions · Substance Abuse/Dependence
(469) 202-9147 View (469) 202-9147

See more therapy options for Somervell County

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.