Photo of Dr. Tancy C. Horn Johnson Lcsw-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Waco, TX
Dr. Tancy C. Horn Johnson Lcsw-S
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, EMDRCIT, SEP, DARTT, CEDS-C, TCTSY-F
Verified Verified
Waco, TX 76712
ERP Certified for OCD, EMDR-Consultant-In-Training; Accepting TX LMSW for LCSW Clinical Supervision; Accepting LCSW, LPC or LMFT in USA for Certified Eating Disorder Specialist (CEDS) with International Association of Eating Disorder Professionals (IAEDP). As a CEDS-C, I’m here to guide you in changing your relationship with food. For anyone ready to address past trauma experiences, I am use an eclectic approach, and may use the Healing Our Core Issues (HOCI) model, to examine family of origin trauma, the work of Jan Bergstrom, LMHC, SEP, DARTT, and Dr. Rick Butts, who were intensely trained by Pia Mellody/The Meadows.
ERP Certified for OCD, EMDR-Consultant-In-Training; Accepting TX LMSW for LCSW Clinical Supervision; Accepting LCSW, LPC or LMFT in USA for Certified Eating Disorder Specialist (CEDS) with International Association of Eating Disorder Professionals (IAEDP). As a CEDS-C, I’m here to guide you in changing your relationship with food. For anyone ready to address past trauma experiences, I am use an eclectic approach, and may use the Healing Our Core Issues (HOCI) model, to examine family of origin trauma, the work of Jan Bergstrom, LMHC, SEP, DARTT, and Dr. Rick Butts, who were intensely trained by Pia Mellody/The Meadows.
(254) 239-0784 View (254) 239-0784
Photo of Nathan D Williams, Licensed Professional Counselor in Waco, TX
Nathan D Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Waco, TX 76712
With 25 years of counseling experience, I want to help you. There are so many issues in life that get in the way and keep you from feeling whole and fulfilled. Depression, anxiety, trauma, disability, change, and many others can make a list that becomes overwhelming to deal with. Getting unstuck and overcoming these obstacles is important to you and your success.
With 25 years of counseling experience, I want to help you. There are so many issues in life that get in the way and keep you from feeling whole and fulfilled. Depression, anxiety, trauma, disability, change, and many others can make a list that becomes overwhelming to deal with. Getting unstuck and overcoming these obstacles is important to you and your success.
(254) 845-7263 View (254) 845-7263
Photo of Jason Paul Francis, Licensed Professional Counselor in Waco, TX
Jason Paul Francis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waco, TX 76710
(254) 735-1811 View (254) 735-1811

Online Therapists

Photo of Kelleigh Head, Psychologist in Waco, TX
Kelleigh Head
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Richardson, TX 75081
Casual, relaxed, & approachable therapeutic atmosphere to help clients with any issue they wish to discuss. Dr. Kelleigh Head (pronounced "Kelly") is a Psychologist in Richardson & Prosper TX. Since 2007, she has worked with a variety of clients and issues (anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and just life in general). She can utilize different orientations and styles as determined by need of client. Her primary focus is conducting psychological evaluations. These assessments are comprehensive and utilize industry standard measures.
Casual, relaxed, & approachable therapeutic atmosphere to help clients with any issue they wish to discuss. Dr. Kelleigh Head (pronounced "Kelly") is a Psychologist in Richardson & Prosper TX. Since 2007, she has worked with a variety of clients and issues (anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and just life in general). She can utilize different orientations and styles as determined by need of client. Her primary focus is conducting psychological evaluations. These assessments are comprehensive and utilize industry standard measures.
(469) 557-8183 View (469) 557-8183
Photo of Randi Wright, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Waco, TX
Randi Wright
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
Forney, TX 75126  (Online Only)
Among my areas of practice and experience are Depression, Anxiety, Relaxation, Bipolar disorder, Family issues, Grief and Loss, Anger Management, Relationship Stress, and Self Esteem.
Among my areas of practice and experience are Depression, Anxiety, Relaxation, Bipolar disorder, Family issues, Grief and Loss, Anger Management, Relationship Stress, and Self Esteem.
(469) 746-0235 View (469) 746-0235
Photo of Kelly Couture, Licensed Professional Counselor in Waco, TX
Kelly Couture
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75219
I specialize in anxiety, depression, bipolar, substance abuse/dependency and thought disorders (ex: psychotic thought processes).
I understand my clients are unique individuals. The approach to their therapy should be just as unique. There is no "cookie cutter" approach in working with the subtle nuances that we all possess as people. As a clinician, I find working with people who want to grow incredibly rewarding! Ideally, I find clients who are curious, want to grow and who are dedicated to working on themselves wonderful to work with. However, sometimes, clients may be confused, scared and not sure what next steps to take. I find working with these clients just as rewarding!
I specialize in anxiety, depression, bipolar, substance abuse/dependency and thought disorders (ex: psychotic thought processes).
I understand my clients are unique individuals. The approach to their therapy should be just as unique. There is no "cookie cutter" approach in working with the subtle nuances that we all possess as people. As a clinician, I find working with people who want to grow incredibly rewarding! Ideally, I find clients who are curious, want to grow and who are dedicated to working on themselves wonderful to work with. However, sometimes, clients may be confused, scared and not sure what next steps to take. I find working with these clients just as rewarding!
(888) 726-7170 View (888) 726-7170
Photo of Kathy Keith, Licensed Professional Counselor in Waco, TX
Kathy Keith
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Round Rock, TX 78681
My name is Kathy Keith, MA, a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 24 years of clinical experience. I have experience working with adults, teenagers, and couples with Anger Management, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, Addiction, Behavioral Issues, Codependency, Coping Skills, Depression, Dual Diagnosis, Eating Disorders, Schizophrenia, Trauma, PTSD, and many more. The most common theoretical approaches I use are CBT, Interpersonal psychology, Trauma Focused CBT, Reality Therapy, ACT, Mindfulness, and positive psychology. I believe that I am supportive, compassionate, and respectful that guide you to where you want to go!
My name is Kathy Keith, MA, a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 24 years of clinical experience. I have experience working with adults, teenagers, and couples with Anger Management, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, Addiction, Behavioral Issues, Codependency, Coping Skills, Depression, Dual Diagnosis, Eating Disorders, Schizophrenia, Trauma, PTSD, and many more. The most common theoretical approaches I use are CBT, Interpersonal psychology, Trauma Focused CBT, Reality Therapy, ACT, Mindfulness, and positive psychology. I believe that I am supportive, compassionate, and respectful that guide you to where you want to go!
(469) 772-5769 View (469) 772-5769
Photo of Chris E Goetz, Licensed Professional Counselor in Waco, TX
Chris E Goetz
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75211
My clinical expertise includes treating MDD, Bipolar I & II, Schizoaffective, BPD, Dual-diagnosis and SUDS.
My motto is, “reveal the root, expose the lie and heal the wounded spirit.” It is my passion to work with those who struggle with severe trauma and emotional abuse. Based on the comfort level of the patient - faith, spirituality and prayer can often be a vital part of the therapeutic process. I strive to meet the unique and individual needs of each client and adjust my approach accordingly. I truly consider it an honor and a privilege to partner with you in your journey towards wholeness. There is a plan and a purpose for your life, full of unique strengths and talents. My goal is to help you become all that you were created to be.
My clinical expertise includes treating MDD, Bipolar I & II, Schizoaffective, BPD, Dual-diagnosis and SUDS.
My motto is, “reveal the root, expose the lie and heal the wounded spirit.” It is my passion to work with those who struggle with severe trauma and emotional abuse. Based on the comfort level of the patient - faith, spirituality and prayer can often be a vital part of the therapeutic process. I strive to meet the unique and individual needs of each client and adjust my approach accordingly. I truly consider it an honor and a privilege to partner with you in your journey towards wholeness. There is a plan and a purpose for your life, full of unique strengths and talents. My goal is to help you become all that you were created to be.
(214) 206-4570 View (214) 206-4570
Photo of Laura McDowell-Salcedo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Waco, TX
Laura McDowell-Salcedo, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78731
I provide counseling services to adults with a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, relationship problems, addictions and ADHD. I offer individual and couples psychotherapy services. My style is interactive and supportive, yet direct in working with clients and I view psychotherapy as a collaborative effort between therapist and client.I use a combination of therapy techniques suited to your individual needs which may include: Cognitive-Behavioral (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR), Family Systems, Humanistic and Relational.
I provide counseling services to adults with a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, relationship problems, addictions and ADHD. I offer individual and couples psychotherapy services. My style is interactive and supportive, yet direct in working with clients and I view psychotherapy as a collaborative effort between therapist and client.I use a combination of therapy techniques suited to your individual needs which may include: Cognitive-Behavioral (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR), Family Systems, Humanistic and Relational.
(512) 598-4711 View (512) 598-4711
Photo of Casey Newman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Waco, TX
Casey Newman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Gun Barrel City, TX 75156
Waitlist for new clients
I have worked in various environments such as Jails, Schools, Hospitals, and Addiction Treatment Centers. I have experience with adolescents, adults, pervasive illness, Schizophrenia Spectrum, Bipolar Disorder, Mood Disorders, Depression, Anxiety, Substance Abuse, Grief and Loss, Caretakers, Autism Spectrum, LGBTQ, Sex Positive and Kink Allied, and meditation. I am trained in CBT, REBT, CPT and LEAP and I use a variety of different styles and techniques to help clients live their best life.
I have worked in various environments such as Jails, Schools, Hospitals, and Addiction Treatment Centers. I have experience with adolescents, adults, pervasive illness, Schizophrenia Spectrum, Bipolar Disorder, Mood Disorders, Depression, Anxiety, Substance Abuse, Grief and Loss, Caretakers, Autism Spectrum, LGBTQ, Sex Positive and Kink Allied, and meditation. I am trained in CBT, REBT, CPT and LEAP and I use a variety of different styles and techniques to help clients live their best life.
(940) 412-7285 View (940) 412-7285
Photo of Kay Fontenot, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Waco, TX
Kay Fontenot
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, LCDC, BSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waxahachie, TX 75165
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 Yu-Fen Lin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Waco, TX
Yu-Fen Lin
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75208
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 x805 View (972) 774-6426 x805
Photo of Meredith Rogers, Licensed Professional Counselor in Waco, TX
Meredith Rogers
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Harker Heights, TX 76548
I have significant experience with patients suffering from depression, anxiety disorders, substance abuse, bipolar disorder and suicidal thoughts.
My approach to therapy is empathetic and gentle, yet practical and straightforward. I use cognitive behavioral therapy, which is the most widely used evidence-based practice. I partner with my clients to challenge their thoughts, ideas, and behaviors with the goal of facilitating real, lasting change and to achieve personal growth. Some of my specialties include anxiety, depression, substance abuse, coping skills, military family issues, marriage and family counseling. There are "therapy apps" that may be helpful for some but they do not deliver the experience of having therapy in person.
I have significant experience with patients suffering from depression, anxiety disorders, substance abuse, bipolar disorder and suicidal thoughts.
My approach to therapy is empathetic and gentle, yet practical and straightforward. I use cognitive behavioral therapy, which is the most widely used evidence-based practice. I partner with my clients to challenge their thoughts, ideas, and behaviors with the goal of facilitating real, lasting change and to achieve personal growth. Some of my specialties include anxiety, depression, substance abuse, coping skills, military family issues, marriage and family counseling. There are "therapy apps" that may be helpful for some but they do not deliver the experience of having therapy in person.
(254) 332-2382 View (254) 332-2382
Photo of Lifeworks Counseling Center, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Waco, TX
Lifeworks Counseling Center, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Addison, TX 75001
Lifeworks therapists work with most emotional/psychological disorders; such as, major depression, bipolar, anxiety/PTSD, anger/stress, grief & personality disorders.
Lifeworks Counseling Center, PLLC has been in business since 1992. We provide therapy for ages 4 and up. We have 9 therapists (LPC, LMFT, LCSW) who provide counseling for almost any emotional/mental/spiritual challenge people face in today's culture. We have therapists on most major insurance and EAP panels and also work with private pay clients as well.
Lifeworks therapists work with most emotional/psychological disorders; such as, major depression, bipolar, anxiety/PTSD, anger/stress, grief & personality disorders.
Lifeworks Counseling Center, PLLC has been in business since 1992. We provide therapy for ages 4 and up. We have 9 therapists (LPC, LMFT, LCSW) who provide counseling for almost any emotional/mental/spiritual challenge people face in today's culture. We have therapists on most major insurance and EAP panels and also work with private pay clients as well.
(972) 435-0231 View (972) 435-0231
Photo of Boundless Journey LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Waco, TX
Boundless Journey LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76102  (Online Only)
My name is Jennifer Meyer and I've had a lifelong passion for helping individuals from a person-centered and trauma-informed approach. With over 20 years experience as a Licensed Professional Counselor within community mental health, I have worked extensively with individuals struggling with chronic mental health and substance use issues. This includes, but is not limited to: depression, anxiety, Bipolar, PTSD and other trauma-related issues, and psychosis. My work has also focused on providing crisis counseling support, particularly concentrated on suicidal behaviors and providing grief/loss support for suicide survivors.
My name is Jennifer Meyer and I've had a lifelong passion for helping individuals from a person-centered and trauma-informed approach. With over 20 years experience as a Licensed Professional Counselor within community mental health, I have worked extensively with individuals struggling with chronic mental health and substance use issues. This includes, but is not limited to: depression, anxiety, Bipolar, PTSD and other trauma-related issues, and psychosis. My work has also focused on providing crisis counseling support, particularly concentrated on suicidal behaviors and providing grief/loss support for suicide survivors.
(682) 900-6426 View (682) 900-6426
Photo of Christina Glaze, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Waco, TX
Christina Glaze
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Leander, TX 78641
Christina is interested in working with teens, adults, and couples who are experiencing difficulties due to stress, depression, anxiety, life transitions, or addictions. Christina’s most positive therapeutic results have stemmed from a collaboration of Solution-Focused Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to allow individuals to challenge negative thoughts and to implement problem-solving strategies. Christina has worked as a Social Worker specializing in severe mental illnesses including Schizophrenia and Bipolar Disorder in local psychiatric hospitals. She is passionate about erasing the stigma of mental illness in society.
Christina is interested in working with teens, adults, and couples who are experiencing difficulties due to stress, depression, anxiety, life transitions, or addictions. Christina’s most positive therapeutic results have stemmed from a collaboration of Solution-Focused Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to allow individuals to challenge negative thoughts and to implement problem-solving strategies. Christina has worked as a Social Worker specializing in severe mental illnesses including Schizophrenia and Bipolar Disorder in local psychiatric hospitals. She is passionate about erasing the stigma of mental illness in society.
(737) 252-7084 View (737) 252-7084
Photo of Joann Martillotti-Cartwright, Licensed Professional Counselor in Waco, TX
Joann Martillotti-Cartwright
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cedar Park, TX 78613
My specialties are: family struggles around recovery/addiction/mental health issues; substance abuse/addictions; anger management, healthy relationships, and challenging personalities/relationship behaviors; and trauma, depression/bipolar disorder, and anxiety.
My clients’ success has made space for you! Move from stuck to empowered! If you want to change - your relationships, your relationship to alcohol/drugs/food/sex/social media, your anxiety or depression, the way you react under stress - then call me today. You can have the life you desire and deserve. I want to help you develop new tools and resources to be who you want to be, get the relationships you want, and reach exceptional goals. You don't have to go it alone. Let's work together to break through! Now offering several therapy packages - Enhancing Sobriety, Transforming Relationships, and Breaking Free of Trauma. Call today!
My specialties are: family struggles around recovery/addiction/mental health issues; substance abuse/addictions; anger management, healthy relationships, and challenging personalities/relationship behaviors; and trauma, depression/bipolar disorder, and anxiety.
My clients’ success has made space for you! Move from stuck to empowered! If you want to change - your relationships, your relationship to alcohol/drugs/food/sex/social media, your anxiety or depression, the way you react under stress - then call me today. You can have the life you desire and deserve. I want to help you develop new tools and resources to be who you want to be, get the relationships you want, and reach exceptional goals. You don't have to go it alone. Let's work together to break through! Now offering several therapy packages - Enhancing Sobriety, Transforming Relationships, and Breaking Free of Trauma. Call today!
(512) 355-7320 View (512) 355-7320
Photo of Robin Elizabeth Remsing, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Waco, TX
Robin Elizabeth Remsing
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78746
I have experience with a wide range of mental health disorders including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, suicidality and substance use.
I believe the therapeutic relationship should be authentic and emotionally safe for you. I am practical and honest with feedback and have a laid back and warm approach. I will go at the pace you set and provide insight and encouragement. I will be respectful of your cultural, spiritual and lifestyle choices.
I have experience with a wide range of mental health disorders including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, suicidality and substance use.
I believe the therapeutic relationship should be authentic and emotionally safe for you. I am practical and honest with feedback and have a laid back and warm approach. I will go at the pace you set and provide insight and encouragement. I will be respectful of your cultural, spiritual and lifestyle choices.
(830) 271-2135 View (830) 271-2135
Photo of Tracy Dianne Newton, Licensed Professional Counselor in Waco, TX
Tracy Dianne Newton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75254
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS. TELEHEALTH AND FACE TO FACE. My approach to counseling focuses on how the influences of the past affect the decisions and interactions you are having today. Throughout our therapy, together, you and I will look at the different aspects of your personality, how you were raised, and the messages you received from you parent(s), and how you functioned in the family system. In addition, both of us will work on counseling goals, which will govern the direction of your counseling process.
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS. TELEHEALTH AND FACE TO FACE. My approach to counseling focuses on how the influences of the past affect the decisions and interactions you are having today. Throughout our therapy, together, you and I will look at the different aspects of your personality, how you were raised, and the messages you received from you parent(s), and how you functioned in the family system. In addition, both of us will work on counseling goals, which will govern the direction of your counseling process.
(214) 692-2167 View (214) 692-2167
Photo of Jung Wellness Institute, Licensed Professional Counselor in Waco, TX
Jung Wellness Institute
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, LPA
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78746  (Online Only)
Counseling, psychology, mental health, and hypnosis have ignited my passion to work with individuals and families long ago. I enjoy working with individuals who have temporary lost their way, lost joy in life, and might be struggling with anxiety, chronic illness, pain or upcoming surgeries, depression, panic attacks, insomnia, or mental blocks. One of my specialties includes working with musicians, artists, writers, and other professions in the entertainment industry. Additionally, I enjoy exploring multicultural issues with immigrants, trauma work with any individuals, and guiding individuals through life transitions.
Counseling, psychology, mental health, and hypnosis have ignited my passion to work with individuals and families long ago. I enjoy working with individuals who have temporary lost their way, lost joy in life, and might be struggling with anxiety, chronic illness, pain or upcoming surgeries, depression, panic attacks, insomnia, or mental blocks. One of my specialties includes working with musicians, artists, writers, and other professions in the entertainment industry. Additionally, I enjoy exploring multicultural issues with immigrants, trauma work with any individuals, and guiding individuals through life transitions.
(737) 204-8156 View (737) 204-8156

Nearby Bipolar Disorder Therapists Searches for Waco

See More Bipolar Disorder Therapists
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.