Photo of Mary Schaaf, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Springtown, TX
Mary Schaaf
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Springtown, TX 76082
I am best able to help people who are seeking to recover from life experiences that have caused hurt, relationship and work problems and a decline in personal growth. Persons seeking recovery from a problematic past of drug or alcohol use, obesity, chronic disease, trauma, relationship problems, domestic violence, child protective services involvement, self destructive behavior, grief and loss or situational stress would be an ideal client to work with. I work best with clients who are curious about how to manage complex problems, curious about change and interested in investing in themselves, their children or family.
I am best able to help people who are seeking to recover from life experiences that have caused hurt, relationship and work problems and a decline in personal growth. Persons seeking recovery from a problematic past of drug or alcohol use, obesity, chronic disease, trauma, relationship problems, domestic violence, child protective services involvement, self destructive behavior, grief and loss or situational stress would be an ideal client to work with. I work best with clients who are curious about how to manage complex problems, curious about change and interested in investing in themselves, their children or family.
(817) 409-6474 View (817) 409-6474
Photo of pegasustherapies, Licensed Professional Counselor in Springtown, TX
pegasustherapies
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Springtown, TX 76082
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor. I am one of 30 therapists certified to do CPT in the state of Texas, which is the therapy used for trauma and PTSD. I work with various populations including active duty service members from the air force,army,navy and marines as well as the international pilot training wing, their families, veterans, and clients of all ages. My clients include ones with with abusive histories, physical,emotional,sexual,ritual, or currently in an abusive situation. I am certified in CBT, CPT, TF-CBT, EMDR, and TF-EAP. All used for trauma work. I use animal therapy also
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor. I am one of 30 therapists certified to do CPT in the state of Texas, which is the therapy used for trauma and PTSD. I work with various populations including active duty service members from the air force,army,navy and marines as well as the international pilot training wing, their families, veterans, and clients of all ages. My clients include ones with with abusive histories, physical,emotional,sexual,ritual, or currently in an abusive situation. I am certified in CBT, CPT, TF-CBT, EMDR, and TF-EAP. All used for trauma work. I use animal therapy also
(940) 227-6090 View (940) 227-6090

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Psychotherapy & Associated, Licensed Professional Counselor in Springtown, TX
Psychotherapy & Associated
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Azle, TX 76020
Are you experiencing crisis or challenges? Need someone to listen and provide sound guidance? If you are dealing with overwhelming obstacles or just trying to get through everyday life, I'd like to help. My goal is to be a supportive listener to those who are struggling; a helping hand when help is needed. I'm a generalist and enjoy working with a variety of people. I also provide a safe, supportive counseling environment where collaboration and respect are held in high regards. In working together, I believe we can take on the issues you are facing and take care of them, one issue at a time, one day at a time.
Are you experiencing crisis or challenges? Need someone to listen and provide sound guidance? If you are dealing with overwhelming obstacles or just trying to get through everyday life, I'd like to help. My goal is to be a supportive listener to those who are struggling; a helping hand when help is needed. I'm a generalist and enjoy working with a variety of people. I also provide a safe, supportive counseling environment where collaboration and respect are held in high regards. In working together, I believe we can take on the issues you are facing and take care of them, one issue at a time, one day at a time.
(682) 305-3383 View (682) 305-3383
Austin Avenue Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Azle, TX 76020
If you are dealing with a relationship on the brink, have unresolved traumatic issues from your past, need help dealing with life in general, or face addiction obstacles, please call us. Our office offers individual, couple, and family therapy services, as well as therapy for those who suffer from or have loved ones dealing with addiction. College and career counseling for all ages is also offered here to those who need help finding resources, filling out forms, or just guidance in general. Genetic testing for medication is also available.
If you are dealing with a relationship on the brink, have unresolved traumatic issues from your past, need help dealing with life in general, or face addiction obstacles, please call us. Our office offers individual, couple, and family therapy services, as well as therapy for those who suffer from or have loved ones dealing with addiction. College and career counseling for all ages is also offered here to those who need help finding resources, filling out forms, or just guidance in general. Genetic testing for medication is also available.
(682) 463-1372 View (682) 463-1372
Photo of Paul Edward Thompson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Springtown, TX
Paul Edward Thompson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boyd, TX 76023
In my 35+ years of counseling I have been fortunate to work with a wide variety of people with a wide variety of issues in a wide variety of settings. My broad goal in counseling is to foster positive change in others. I believe my success in working with people has been my ability to be adaptable and open when relating to the person, group, or family I am trying to assist. I listen to identify the present issues and the possible history of these issues. I employ an eclectic approach in therapy using the tools to promote change.
In my 35+ years of counseling I have been fortunate to work with a wide variety of people with a wide variety of issues in a wide variety of settings. My broad goal in counseling is to foster positive change in others. I believe my success in working with people has been my ability to be adaptable and open when relating to the person, group, or family I am trying to assist. I listen to identify the present issues and the possible history of these issues. I employ an eclectic approach in therapy using the tools to promote change.
(817) 405-2095 View (817) 405-2095
Photo of Andrea C. Strempke, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Springtown, TX
Andrea C. Strempke
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MS, CRC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Paradise, TX 76073  (Online Only)
Do you want to feel hope, balance, and freedom in your life? Hello, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor - Associate and I am supervised by Amanda Esquivel, LPC-S and Hilary Labac, LPC-S. It is my honor to help clients manage and minimize their symptoms and work through the core of their problems, because I know it is more than possible to live your best, healthiest life, despite the conditions you face each day. I admire your courage to seek help. I believe in a science-based, holistic approach to mental health treatment, and seeking to identify and treat the root causes of mental health conditions, not just the symptoms.
Do you want to feel hope, balance, and freedom in your life? Hello, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor - Associate and I am supervised by Amanda Esquivel, LPC-S and Hilary Labac, LPC-S. It is my honor to help clients manage and minimize their symptoms and work through the core of their problems, because I know it is more than possible to live your best, healthiest life, despite the conditions you face each day. I admire your courage to seek help. I believe in a science-based, holistic approach to mental health treatment, and seeking to identify and treat the root causes of mental health conditions, not just the symptoms.
(940) 468-1391 View (940) 468-1391
Photo of Alan Katzen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Springtown, TX
Alan Katzen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Azle, TX 76020  (Online Only)
I consider it an honor when clients choose to trust me and talk about themselves. You will learn about the role your beliefs, assumptions, and expectations play in influencing your feelings and behaviors.
I consider it an honor when clients choose to trust me and talk about themselves. You will learn about the role your beliefs, assumptions, and expectations play in influencing your feelings and behaviors.
(682) 200-1861 View (682) 200-1861

Online Therapists

Photo of Summer Rose, Psychologist in Springtown, TX
Summer Rose
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75219  (Online Only)
Hi there! Thank you for considering my practice. I have extensive expertise in the following areas: depression/bipolar disorders, anxiety, trauma, parenting issues, behavioral disorders, family discord and child/adolescent issues (though I work with lots of adults too). My modality is eclectic; however, my approach is tailored to what will work for your unique situation. I have expertise in the area of psychological assessment. I conduct assessments weekly for ADHD, learning differences, behavior disorders, etc. I am a frequent speaker in the DFW metroplex and have been featured as an expert panelist on NPR. But above all, I privilege my clients and their voice.
Hi there! Thank you for considering my practice. I have extensive expertise in the following areas: depression/bipolar disorders, anxiety, trauma, parenting issues, behavioral disorders, family discord and child/adolescent issues (though I work with lots of adults too). My modality is eclectic; however, my approach is tailored to what will work for your unique situation. I have expertise in the area of psychological assessment. I conduct assessments weekly for ADHD, learning differences, behavior disorders, etc. I am a frequent speaker in the DFW metroplex and have been featured as an expert panelist on NPR. But above all, I privilege my clients and their voice.
(281) 609-7482 View (281) 609-7482
Photo of Abby Jo Hawkins, Licensed Professional Counselor in Springtown, TX
Abby Jo Hawkins
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCDC, MS BS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75205
Please check out my quick and easy insurance verification via website(takes less than 2 min) Focus on Trauma, Grief, and Addictions (of all kinds) alcohol, benzodiazepines, opiates, sex, shopping and eating issues. Abby works with Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder and Personality Disorders on a consistent basis. When working with a client they first establishes goals the client identifies as being their primary focus and then explains options such as plans for different types of therapy and steps to the goal from personalized plans the therapist and client create together for stair step process to ensure client moves forward.
Please check out my quick and easy insurance verification via website(takes less than 2 min) Focus on Trauma, Grief, and Addictions (of all kinds) alcohol, benzodiazepines, opiates, sex, shopping and eating issues. Abby works with Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder and Personality Disorders on a consistent basis. When working with a client they first establishes goals the client identifies as being their primary focus and then explains options such as plans for different types of therapy and steps to the goal from personalized plans the therapist and client create together for stair step process to ensure client moves forward.
(254) 876-4220 View (254) 876-4220
Photo of Krista Woods, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Springtown, 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 Katherine Fields, Licensed Professional Counselor in Springtown, TX
Katherine Fields
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76110  (Online Only)
She also has clinical experience working with adolescents and adults who struggle with relationships, depression, anxiety, addiction and more acute psychiatric disorders such as Bipolar Disorder.
Katherine Fields is a licensed clinical therapist and school counselor in the state of Texas. She is an army brat and former navy spouse which have afforded her the opportunity to experience a wide range of cultures, including South, Central America, Italy and Japan. Recently, Katherine traversed to Mexico for eight months to learn more about its rich culture. Living in Texas, she currently accepts new clients; whether student, professional or retired. She uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help adults both young and seasoned to make sense of the world around them.
She also has clinical experience working with adolescents and adults who struggle with relationships, depression, anxiety, addiction and more acute psychiatric disorders such as Bipolar Disorder.
Katherine Fields is a licensed clinical therapist and school counselor in the state of Texas. She is an army brat and former navy spouse which have afforded her the opportunity to experience a wide range of cultures, including South, Central America, Italy and Japan. Recently, Katherine traversed to Mexico for eight months to learn more about its rich culture. Living in Texas, she currently accepts new clients; whether student, professional or retired. She uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help adults both young and seasoned to make sense of the world around them.
(817) 631-6974 View (817) 631-6974
Photo of Yas Farrokh, Licensed Professional Counselor in Springtown, 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 Christian Hudson Wallis, Licensed Professional Counselor in Springtown, 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 Miles O'Brien, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Springtown, TX
Miles O'Brien
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPCA, MA
Verified Verified
Colleyville, TX 76034
I also focus on: Trauma, Feeling lost, Helping helpers, Emotional balance, Reaching goals, Bipolar 1 and 2, Depression, Borderline, Anxiety, Autism.
My approach is to meet you where you are with empathy and caring. To support you in life regardless of what you have been through. Regardless of if you hate yourself or love yourself or how stuck you feel. I hope to support you to reach your goals, and if I can't, to help you find someone who can. This space is for you. What do you want to do? Who do you want to become? Whether all hope is lost or you just can't figure something out. Whether you have been diagnosed with a disorder, you just don't feel happy where you are, or you want to learn how to be healthier. My approach helps you become more of who you are and be whole again.
I also focus on: Trauma, Feeling lost, Helping helpers, Emotional balance, Reaching goals, Bipolar 1 and 2, Depression, Borderline, Anxiety, Autism.
My approach is to meet you where you are with empathy and caring. To support you in life regardless of what you have been through. Regardless of if you hate yourself or love yourself or how stuck you feel. I hope to support you to reach your goals, and if I can't, to help you find someone who can. This space is for you. What do you want to do? Who do you want to become? Whether all hope is lost or you just can't figure something out. Whether you have been diagnosed with a disorder, you just don't feel happy where you are, or you want to learn how to be healthier. My approach helps you become more of who you are and be whole again.
(817) 873-1647 View (817) 873-1647
Photo of Esther E Davies-Venn, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Springtown, TX
Esther E Davies-Venn
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS
Verified Verified
Keller, TX 76244
Relationships, Family Therapy, Anxiety, Social Anxiety, Hoarding, OCD, Phobias, Substance Abuse, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Anger Management, Trauma, Life Transitions.
Accepting couples, families and individuals ...Do you feel stuck in life or in your relationship? Are you struggling with your significant other or as a parent? Do you want to work on becoming a better version of yourself? Relationships can be tough, but I have the tools and experience to help you navigate. I have a passion for helping individuals, couples and families to feel empowered, experience personal growth, maximize their strengths, and create a brighter future for themselves.
Relationships, Family Therapy, Anxiety, Social Anxiety, Hoarding, OCD, Phobias, Substance Abuse, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Anger Management, Trauma, Life Transitions.
Accepting couples, families and individuals ...Do you feel stuck in life or in your relationship? Are you struggling with your significant other or as a parent? Do you want to work on becoming a better version of yourself? Relationships can be tough, but I have the tools and experience to help you navigate. I have a passion for helping individuals, couples and families to feel empowered, experience personal growth, maximize their strengths, and create a brighter future for themselves.
(817) 646-7031 View (817) 646-7031
Photo of Urban Counseling Clique, Licensed Professional Counselor in Springtown, TX
Urban Counseling Clique
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MS, LPC-S, CHT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75243  (Online Only)
Specializing in Depression, Bipolar disorder, Anxiety, and trauma.
Are you tired of traditional counseling and want to see real results in your situation? At Urban Counseling Clique we do not tell you what you want to hear. We tell you the truth. If you are seeking a counselor with a "real" approach on life you have come to the right place. We provide you with the tools to help you make significant changes in your life and see real progress.
Specializing in Depression, Bipolar disorder, Anxiety, and trauma.
Are you tired of traditional counseling and want to see real results in your situation? At Urban Counseling Clique we do not tell you what you want to hear. We tell you the truth. If you are seeking a counselor with a "real" approach on life you have come to the right place. We provide you with the tools to help you make significant changes in your life and see real progress.
(469) 707-9643 View (469) 707-9643
Photo of Andrea Cunningham, Licensed Professional Counselor in Springtown, TX
Andrea Cunningham
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S, CYT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75023
I am highly skilled in treating mood and anxiety disorders including depression and bipolar disorders, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, OCD, PTSD, and Social Anxiety Disorder.
I am committed to helping my clients achieve their goals. I believe that counseling can promote a lifestyle that results in physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. I focus on the client as a whole individual, rather than a disorder, and encourage healthy behaviors across various aspects of life. I conceptualize individuals and form treatment plans tailored to each client's unique characteristics, strengths, values, and needs. I work diligently to create a safe, empathic, and supportive environment for my clients.
I am highly skilled in treating mood and anxiety disorders including depression and bipolar disorders, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, OCD, PTSD, and Social Anxiety Disorder.
I am committed to helping my clients achieve their goals. I believe that counseling can promote a lifestyle that results in physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. I focus on the client as a whole individual, rather than a disorder, and encourage healthy behaviors across various aspects of life. I conceptualize individuals and form treatment plans tailored to each client's unique characteristics, strengths, values, and needs. I work diligently to create a safe, empathic, and supportive environment for my clients.
(972) 362-6668 View (972) 362-6668
Photo of Dr. Reed J. Robinson, Psychologist in Springtown, 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 Mae-Lin Yu Mendoza, Licensed Professional Counselor in Springtown, TX
Mae-Lin Yu Mendoza
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lewisville, TX 75056
I specialize in seeing individuals who are dealing with the following issues: depression and anxiety, Bipolar disorders, relationship issues, childhood sexual abuse/trauma, career transitions, unplanned pregnancy, grief and loss, and behavioral problems. I have training in Biblical studies (a one year certificate in Bible and Ministry) which provides a foundation for Biblically-based counseling. I do treat clients who express a non-spiritual focus.
I specialize in seeing individuals who are dealing with the following issues: depression and anxiety, Bipolar disorders, relationship issues, childhood sexual abuse/trauma, career transitions, unplanned pregnancy, grief and loss, and behavioral problems. I have training in Biblical studies (a one year certificate in Bible and Ministry) which provides a foundation for Biblically-based counseling. I do treat clients who express a non-spiritual focus.
(972) 703-4328 View (972) 703-4328
Photo of Jamie Ann Jaubert, Licensed Professional Counselor in Springtown, TX
Jamie Ann Jaubert
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75023
I am highly skilled in treating mood & anxiety disorders including depression & bipolar disorders, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, OCD, PTSD, & Social Anxiety Disorder.
I am committed to helping my clients achieve their goals. I believe that counseling can promote a lifestyle that results in physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. I focus on the client as a whole individual, rather than a disorder, and encourage healthy behaviors across various aspects of life. I conceptualize individuals and form treatment plans tailored to each client's unique characteristics, strengths, values, and needs. I work diligently to create a safe, empathic, and supportive environment for my clients.
I am highly skilled in treating mood & anxiety disorders including depression & bipolar disorders, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, OCD, PTSD, & Social Anxiety Disorder.
I am committed to helping my clients achieve their goals. I believe that counseling can promote a lifestyle that results in physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. I focus on the client as a whole individual, rather than a disorder, and encourage healthy behaviors across various aspects of life. I conceptualize individuals and form treatment plans tailored to each client's unique characteristics, strengths, values, and needs. I work diligently to create a safe, empathic, and supportive environment for my clients.
(214) 919-7869 View (214) 919-7869

See more therapy options for Springtown

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.