Photo of Valerie Holcomb, Licensed Professional Counselor in Village, TX
Valerie Holcomb
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Village, TX 75205
As a therapist specializing in trauma, depression, and anxiety, I offer compassionate support to traveling or remote workers navigating the complexities of mental health. Through evidence-based techniques and a client-centered approach, I empower individuals to heal from past traumas, manage depression, and overcome anxiety, fostering resilience and well-being wherever their journey takes them. I call myself the overlanding therapist, so sessions may be on the top of a mountain peak, next to the sprays of a 100 foot waterfall, or in a red rock canyon. Nature is my office. I understand the complexities of working remotely.
As a therapist specializing in trauma, depression, and anxiety, I offer compassionate support to traveling or remote workers navigating the complexities of mental health. Through evidence-based techniques and a client-centered approach, I empower individuals to heal from past traumas, manage depression, and overcome anxiety, fostering resilience and well-being wherever their journey takes them. I call myself the overlanding therapist, so sessions may be on the top of a mountain peak, next to the sprays of a 100 foot waterfall, or in a red rock canyon. Nature is my office. I understand the complexities of working remotely.
(903) 289-7948 View (903) 289-7948

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Yassmin Eldouh, Licensed Professional Counselor in Village, 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 Allison Ondocsin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Village, 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. Megan McMillan Rowling, Psychologist in Village, TX
Dr. Megan McMillan Rowling
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75206
Dr. Rowling has extensive experience in successfully treating the following: • Issues relating to celebrity, power and success. • Attachment issues. • Chronic interpersonal and relational trauma. • Issues relating to extreme stress. • Work, creativity and career issues. • Relational dynamics and conflicts. Personality disorders including narcissism, dependent and obsessive compulsive personality disorders. • Substance abuse including alcohol abuse, prescription medication dependence, and sexual compulsivity. • Mood disorders including depression and bipolar disorder. •
Dr. Rowling has extensive experience in successfully treating the following: • Issues relating to celebrity, power and success. • Attachment issues. • Chronic interpersonal and relational trauma. • Issues relating to extreme stress. • Work, creativity and career issues. • Relational dynamics and conflicts. Personality disorders including narcissism, dependent and obsessive compulsive personality disorders. • Substance abuse including alcohol abuse, prescription medication dependence, and sexual compulsivity. • Mood disorders including depression and bipolar disorder. •
(872) 231-3318 View (872) 231-3318
Photo of Jennifer Jobe, Licensed Professional Counselor in Village, TX
Jennifer Jobe
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75225
Jennifer currently works with adults facing a variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD and C-PTSD, grief, bipolar disorders, relationship issues, poor self-esteem, gender identity or sexual identity struggles, parenting issues,sexual concerns, OCD and ADHD. She is also an ally for the LGBTQ+ community. She offers therapy from trauma informed perspective, and has training in EMDR.
Jennifer currently works with adults facing a variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD and C-PTSD, grief, bipolar disorders, relationship issues, poor self-esteem, gender identity or sexual identity struggles, parenting issues,sexual concerns, OCD and ADHD. She is also an ally for the LGBTQ+ community. She offers therapy from trauma informed perspective, and has training in EMDR.
(469) 414-1176 View (469) 414-1176
Photo of Mimi Walke, Licensed Professional Counselor in Village, TX
Mimi Walke
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, C-DBT
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75206
I specialize in mood disorders (anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder), relationship issues, and personality disorders.
Do you ever feel misunderstood, alone, or overwhelmed by your daily responsibilities? Therapy can be a great way to learn to build coping skills for your anxiety, depression, or any other mental health challenges you may be facing. Therapy can also help you set goals, work on boundary setting, communication skills, and processing past events that have left lasting marks in current relationships. It's important that I provide a safe space for my clients to express their feelings, needs, and wants to an unbiased person (me, the counselor) and that I can offer feedback that challenges them to grow and heal!
I specialize in mood disorders (anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder), relationship issues, and personality disorders.
Do you ever feel misunderstood, alone, or overwhelmed by your daily responsibilities? Therapy can be a great way to learn to build coping skills for your anxiety, depression, or any other mental health challenges you may be facing. Therapy can also help you set goals, work on boundary setting, communication skills, and processing past events that have left lasting marks in current relationships. It's important that I provide a safe space for my clients to express their feelings, needs, and wants to an unbiased person (me, the counselor) and that I can offer feedback that challenges them to grow and heal!
(512) 714-3403 View (512) 714-3403
Photo of Rob Clark, Licensed Professional Counselor in Village, TX
Rob Clark
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75205
Relief is possible for symptom related to stress, anxiety, OCD, addiction and depression. There are simple strategies that people can learn to manage emotions and circumstances. I help people learn such strategies through Cognitive Behavior Therapy. CBT is an evidenced based approach to counseling that is proven to treat many different issues including Weight Issues, Addiction, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, Schizophrenia and Personality Disorders. I have seen many clients find relief through counseling.
Relief is possible for symptom related to stress, anxiety, OCD, addiction and depression. There are simple strategies that people can learn to manage emotions and circumstances. I help people learn such strategies through Cognitive Behavior Therapy. CBT is an evidenced based approach to counseling that is proven to treat many different issues including Weight Issues, Addiction, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, Schizophrenia and Personality Disorders. I have seen many clients find relief through counseling.
(972) 638-8635 View (972) 638-8635
Photo of Audrey H Atkins, Licensed Professional Counselor in Village, TX
Audrey H Atkins
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75209
) Adolescent Counseling Abuse/Trauma Crisis Counseling Depression/Bipolar Disorder Grief Anxiety, Phobias & OCD PTSD Eating Disorders Life Transitions (Job Loss/Change, Divorce, Marriage, Geographic Relocation, Military) Anger Manangement.
As a top honors graduate from Texas Wesleyan University, I have been trained by some of the best licensed professionals in the mental health field today. Having done my graduate practicum at Sante Center for Healing, I learned that treating clients from a holistic perspective gives them the skills they need in all areas to address their greatest concerns. As a client of mine, you will be asked to be an active participant in your therapy. The vast majority of my clients report more happiness and positive changes in their lives after only a short time as my client.
) Adolescent Counseling Abuse/Trauma Crisis Counseling Depression/Bipolar Disorder Grief Anxiety, Phobias & OCD PTSD Eating Disorders Life Transitions (Job Loss/Change, Divorce, Marriage, Geographic Relocation, Military) Anger Manangement.
As a top honors graduate from Texas Wesleyan University, I have been trained by some of the best licensed professionals in the mental health field today. Having done my graduate practicum at Sante Center for Healing, I learned that treating clients from a holistic perspective gives them the skills they need in all areas to address their greatest concerns. As a client of mine, you will be asked to be an active participant in your therapy. The vast majority of my clients report more happiness and positive changes in their lives after only a short time as my client.
(940) 294-8001 View (940) 294-8001
Photo of Dr. Mary A. Patton, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Village, TX
Dr. Mary A. Patton, PhD, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75204
Thank you for your interest in my psychological services. My educational background includes a Masters degree in Professional Counseling, a Masters degree in Psychology, and a Doctorate (PhD) in Clinical Psychology. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Dallas,Texas with 15 years of experience practicing. I work with clients who are dealing with a wide range of concerns including Depression, Anxiety/Panic, Schizophrenia, OCD, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Personality Disorders, family of origin concerns & exploration, & many other psychological & behavioral challenges.
Thank you for your interest in my psychological services. My educational background includes a Masters degree in Professional Counseling, a Masters degree in Psychology, and a Doctorate (PhD) in Clinical Psychology. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Dallas,Texas with 15 years of experience practicing. I work with clients who are dealing with a wide range of concerns including Depression, Anxiety/Panic, Schizophrenia, OCD, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Personality Disorders, family of origin concerns & exploration, & many other psychological & behavioral challenges.
(469) 296-3109 View (469) 296-3109
Photo of Dr. Jonathan Wilson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Village, TX
Dr. Jonathan Wilson
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75206  (Online Only)
The majority of my clients are looking for a therapist to help them work through a difficult stage of life, and I consider it an honor to be given that opportunity. I will provide a thorough assessment for you in our first session and set up a treatment plan together. I specialize in treating relationships, depression, anxiety, sexual disorders, trauma, and PTSD. I also have a great deal of experience working with those with Bipolar Disorder, personality disorders, sleep disorders, self-harm, and sex and pornography addiction. As an ally of the LGBT+ community, I work with individuals in any type of relationship.
The majority of my clients are looking for a therapist to help them work through a difficult stage of life, and I consider it an honor to be given that opportunity. I will provide a thorough assessment for you in our first session and set up a treatment plan together. I specialize in treating relationships, depression, anxiety, sexual disorders, trauma, and PTSD. I also have a great deal of experience working with those with Bipolar Disorder, personality disorders, sleep disorders, self-harm, and sex and pornography addiction. As an ally of the LGBT+ community, I work with individuals in any type of relationship.
(617) 766-1038 View (617) 766-1038
Photo of Kathryn Moore, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Village, TX
Kathryn Moore
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MS, LPC-A
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75205
Do you feel like the challenges around you are interfering with your life? Maybe a relationship hurdle. The grief of losing a loved one. All that pregnancy, postpartum, and parenting can bring. Are you struggling to communicate with your partner or children? Challenged by a new diagnosis such as anxiety, depression, or bipolar disorder and do not know where to turn? Maybe you are new to adulthood and feel that you do not know how to navigate your day-to-day life.
Do you feel like the challenges around you are interfering with your life? Maybe a relationship hurdle. The grief of losing a loved one. All that pregnancy, postpartum, and parenting can bring. Are you struggling to communicate with your partner or children? Challenged by a new diagnosis such as anxiety, depression, or bipolar disorder and do not know where to turn? Maybe you are new to adulthood and feel that you do not know how to navigate your day-to-day life.
(806) 606-0366 View (806) 606-0366
Photo of Samia Geraghty, Licensed Professional Counselor in Village, TX
Samia Geraghty
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75214
As a therapist with 20 years of experience, I offer support, empathy, guidance and a safe space to explore any problem you may bring, big or small. Together we can work to identify your goals and find solutions to any issues you are currently facing. I work with adults and adolescents with a wide range of issues including but not limited to anxiety, phobias, depression, bipolar disorder, LGBTQIA, personality disorders, chronic pain, sexual abuse, trauma, job stress and relationship difficulties.
As a therapist with 20 years of experience, I offer support, empathy, guidance and a safe space to explore any problem you may bring, big or small. Together we can work to identify your goals and find solutions to any issues you are currently facing. I work with adults and adolescents with a wide range of issues including but not limited to anxiety, phobias, depression, bipolar disorder, LGBTQIA, personality disorders, chronic pain, sexual abuse, trauma, job stress and relationship difficulties.
(469) 352-2304 View (469) 352-2304
Photo of Cynthia Gump, LPC-Associate in Village, 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 Yu-Fen Lin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Village, TX
Yu-Fen Lin
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75209
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (TX# 62590), Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor, counseling educator, and a pastor. I specialize in individual counseling, couple counseling, group counseling, and supervision in counseling. I work well with clients who are challenged by low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, bipolar, trauma, and relationship problems. I also provide bilingual counseling services to Asians, Asian Americans, and international students who speak Mandarin and Taiwanese. For LPC-Interns who are seeking for supervision under a LPC-Supervisior, I am the one.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (TX# 62590), Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor, counseling educator, and a pastor. I specialize in individual counseling, couple counseling, group counseling, and supervision in counseling. I work well with clients who are challenged by low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, bipolar, trauma, and relationship problems. I also provide bilingual counseling services to Asians, Asian Americans, and international students who speak Mandarin and Taiwanese. For LPC-Interns who are seeking for supervision under a LPC-Supervisior, I am the one.
(972) 774-6426 View (972) 774-6426
Photo of Collin Speciale, Licensed Professional Counselor in Village, TX
Collin Speciale
Licensed Professional Counselor, M Ed, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75225  (Online Only)
It takes a lot of courage to seek out mental health services, I'm glad you found my page! I'm eager to help individuals, couples, or families seeking support for Substance Use Disorders, Anxiety and Depression, ADHD, Bipolar, Personality Disorders, Simple or Complex Traumas, or any type of Relationship Issues. Additionally, our work could include improving self-esteem, self-worth, communication and boundaries in relationships, grief and loss, direction in school, career, or difficult life decisions that you'd like to work on, work through, or resolve.
It takes a lot of courage to seek out mental health services, I'm glad you found my page! I'm eager to help individuals, couples, or families seeking support for Substance Use Disorders, Anxiety and Depression, ADHD, Bipolar, Personality Disorders, Simple or Complex Traumas, or any type of Relationship Issues. Additionally, our work could include improving self-esteem, self-worth, communication and boundaries in relationships, grief and loss, direction in school, career, or difficult life decisions that you'd like to work on, work through, or resolve.
(512) 234-4849 View (512) 234-4849
Photo of Zen Counseling & Wellness, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Village, TX
Zen Counseling & Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPC-A, LCDC, NCC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75204
Greetings! I am Clara, and I am deeply committed to aiding others and derive satisfaction from providing something of value that enhances your existence. I assist people in overcoming daily and life challenges, including but not limited to anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, grief, LGBTQ issues, life transitions, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), substance use disorder (addiction), and trauma. I support the promotion of mental health, which includes psychological, emotional, social, and wellness dimensions, in order to assist people in improving their overall well-being.
Greetings! I am Clara, and I am deeply committed to aiding others and derive satisfaction from providing something of value that enhances your existence. I assist people in overcoming daily and life challenges, including but not limited to anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, grief, LGBTQ issues, life transitions, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), substance use disorder (addiction), and trauma. I support the promotion of mental health, which includes psychological, emotional, social, and wellness dimensions, in order to assist people in improving their overall well-being.
(972) 630-9688 View (972) 630-9688
Photo of Amy Ann Porras, Licensed Professional Counselor in Village, TX
Amy Ann Porras
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75206
My goal for my clients is to guide them from a place of pain and suffering toward growth and healing. I am a LPC who specializes in helping clients navigate challenges of pre and post divorce, infidelity recovery, couples seeking healing, understanding, and intimacy. I also support individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma/complex trauma, codependency, anger management, bipolar disorder, self-harm behaviors, and lack of assertiveness by helping them develop a healthier self-concept. I am EMDR trained and work with first responders.
My goal for my clients is to guide them from a place of pain and suffering toward growth and healing. I am a LPC who specializes in helping clients navigate challenges of pre and post divorce, infidelity recovery, couples seeking healing, understanding, and intimacy. I also support individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma/complex trauma, codependency, anger management, bipolar disorder, self-harm behaviors, and lack of assertiveness by helping them develop a healthier self-concept. I am EMDR trained and work with first responders.
(469) 240-5251 View (469) 240-5251
Photo of Kay Fontenot, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Village, TX
Kay Fontenot
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, LCDC, BSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75204
My professional goal is to provide connection, healing, and insight during each of our encounters, With a passion for attachment and relational models, I have training, expertise and experience in providing counseling and psychotherapy for the following types of concerns/struggles: Women's Concerns, Emerging Adults, Relationship Strain, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Substance Use, Personality Traits and/or Disorders, Divorce, Infidelity, Boundaries, Grief and Loss, Career Concerns, Assertiveness Training, & Life Adjustments. I also offer individual, group and family intensives for connection, insight and deeper healing.
My professional goal is to provide connection, healing, and insight during each of our encounters, With a passion for attachment and relational models, I have training, expertise and experience in providing counseling and psychotherapy for the following types of concerns/struggles: Women's Concerns, Emerging Adults, Relationship Strain, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Substance Use, Personality Traits and/or Disorders, Divorce, Infidelity, Boundaries, Grief and Loss, Career Concerns, Assertiveness Training, & Life Adjustments. I also offer individual, group and family intensives for connection, insight and deeper healing.
(469) 405-2856 View (469) 405-2856
Photo of Landry Therapy Group - Rockwall, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Village, TX
Landry Therapy Group - Rockwall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75225
We offer treatment 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 CLIENTS* Our goal as therapists is to form a bond of trust and commitment with our clients. With the proper support and guidance in their lives, we believe people have an inherent ability to persevere through any struggle with which they are confronted. Jerianne specializes in working with adults, individuals, couples, families, depression self harm/suicidal ideation, and LGBTQ. We help clients cope with life's daily struggles and/or issues resulting from trauma and conflict and to cultivate a healthier style of living to ensure future well-being.
We offer treatment 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 CLIENTS* Our goal as therapists is to form a bond of trust and commitment with our clients. With the proper support and guidance in their lives, we believe people have an inherent ability to persevere through any struggle with which they are confronted. Jerianne specializes in working with adults, individuals, couples, families, depression self harm/suicidal ideation, and LGBTQ. We help clients cope with life's daily struggles and/or issues resulting from trauma and conflict and to cultivate a healthier style of living to ensure future well-being.
(469) 423-8596 View (469) 423-8596
Photo of Summer Rose, Psychologist in Village, 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

See more therapy options for Village

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.