Photo of April Gilchrist, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
April Gilchrist
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Warren, TX 77664
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 13 years of clinical experience, and I have worked with various individuals with Anxiety, Depression, Domestic Abuse/Violence, Trauma, PTSD, and Substance Use. I approach counseling from a cognitive-behavioral perspective in that patterns of thoughts and actions are explored to understand the client’s perspective better and develop solutions. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused, Reality therapy, EMDR, and DBT are used when applicable. I believe that trust and genuineness are the bedrock of the therapeutic relationship.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 13 years of clinical experience, and I have worked with various individuals with Anxiety, Depression, Domestic Abuse/Violence, Trauma, PTSD, and Substance Use. I approach counseling from a cognitive-behavioral perspective in that patterns of thoughts and actions are explored to understand the client’s perspective better and develop solutions. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused, Reality therapy, EMDR, and DBT are used when applicable. I believe that trust and genuineness are the bedrock of the therapeutic relationship.
(512) 722-7968 View (512) 722-7968

Online Therapists

Photo of Denise Smith, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Denise Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Conroe, TX 77384  (Online Only)
I am an experienced therapist who has worked with those struggling with addiction, mood disorders (including bipolar disorder), personality disorders, and trauma. I enjoy working with adults, adolescents, and families/couples. I primarily use CBT/DBT modalities but can adjust to the needs of the client.
I am an experienced therapist who has worked with those struggling with addiction, mood disorders (including bipolar disorder), personality disorders, and trauma. I enjoy working with adults, adolescents, and families/couples. I primarily use CBT/DBT modalities but can adjust to the needs of the client.
(430) 216-1158 View (430) 216-1158
Photo of Tim Brown, PhD, LPC-S, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tim Brown
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Conroe, TX 77304  (Online Only)
I specialize in helping people with anxiety, depression, bipolar, panic attacks, stress, and obsessive thoughts.
Are you struggling with anxiety? Do bothersome thoughts keep running through your mind? Is it hard to shake your worries and fears? Are they interfering with your work or relationships? Let’s find a better way.
I specialize in helping people with anxiety, depression, bipolar, panic attacks, stress, and obsessive thoughts.
Are you struggling with anxiety? Do bothersome thoughts keep running through your mind? Is it hard to shake your worries and fears? Are they interfering with your work or relationships? Let’s find a better way.
(936) 227-4244 View (936) 227-4244
Photo of Chantell Marie Hebert, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chantell Marie Hebert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Conroe, TX 77301
Hello, I am a License Clinical Social Worker. I have experience in providing Individual, Group and Family Therapy. I have worked with clients presenting with Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, Addiction and Suicidal Ideations.
Hello, I am a License Clinical Social Worker. I have experience in providing Individual, Group and Family Therapy. I have worked with clients presenting with Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, Addiction and Suicidal Ideations.
(936) 681-7359 View (936) 681-7359
Photo of John Michael Murray, JD, MS, LMFT, LPC, Marriage & Family Therapist
John Michael Murray
Marriage & Family Therapist, JD, MS, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
Pearland, TX 77581
I therefore specialize in individual as well as relationship counseling to address issues arrising out of: - Depression, anxiety, stress, grief and loss; divorce; parenting; stepfamiles; adolesents; self-esteem; abuse; bipolar; anger; ad/hd.
You are one-of-a-kind. And so, beginning with our first meeting, I will be sure that I clearly understand you and your unique needs. Then, as your therapist, I will work to help you establish and achieve the goals that are immportant to you. Effective psychotherapy supports the emotional healing that leads to wellbeing. My approach includes what I call "relational reflective listening and speaking". It's a process that developes and nurtures the deep respect I have for my patients. In our conversations you and I together will discover new possibilities, new hope that heals the heart.
I therefore specialize in individual as well as relationship counseling to address issues arrising out of: - Depression, anxiety, stress, grief and loss; divorce; parenting; stepfamiles; adolesents; self-esteem; abuse; bipolar; anger; ad/hd.
You are one-of-a-kind. And so, beginning with our first meeting, I will be sure that I clearly understand you and your unique needs. Then, as your therapist, I will work to help you establish and achieve the goals that are immportant to you. Effective psychotherapy supports the emotional healing that leads to wellbeing. My approach includes what I call "relational reflective listening and speaking". It's a process that developes and nurtures the deep respect I have for my patients. In our conversations you and I together will discover new possibilities, new hope that heals the heart.
(832) 463-5602 View (832) 463-5602
Photo of Anne Taylor Kitts, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anne Taylor Kitts
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77002  (Online Only)
With over 30 years of experience, I have developed an expertise in substance abuse, depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, borderline personality disorders and high functioning autism spectrum disorder.
Do you want a therapist that goes against the norm? Do you want to be challenged while celebrating the changes you are making in your life? Are you interested in looking at your concerns from a different perspective? I can help you identify your roadblocks as you move in the direction to become the person you want to be.
With over 30 years of experience, I have developed an expertise in substance abuse, depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, borderline personality disorders and high functioning autism spectrum disorder.
Do you want a therapist that goes against the norm? Do you want to be challenged while celebrating the changes you are making in your life? Are you interested in looking at your concerns from a different perspective? I can help you identify your roadblocks as you move in the direction to become the person you want to be.
(832) 621-4326 View (832) 621-4326
Photo of Ashley-Lauren E. Smith, MS, LPC, CEAP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ashley-Lauren E. Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CEAP
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77055
Smith has a special interest in treating Bipolar Disorder, stress management, and coping skills.
Ashley-Lauren E. Smith is a Licensed Professional Counselor. She assists individuals, couples, or families with general problem areas of distress such as self-esteem, stress management, toxic relationships, communication skills, codependency, problem-solving, depression, anxiety, anger, and other impulsive behaviors.
Smith has a special interest in treating Bipolar Disorder, stress management, and coping skills.
Ashley-Lauren E. Smith is a Licensed Professional Counselor. She assists individuals, couples, or families with general problem areas of distress such as self-esteem, stress management, toxic relationships, communication skills, codependency, problem-solving, depression, anxiety, anger, and other impulsive behaviors.
(832) 219-1409 View (832) 219-1409
Photo of Jennifer Weatherly-Obani - Jennifer Weatherly-Obani LPC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Weatherly-Obani LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77018  (Online Only)
I have worked with people dealing with depression,postpartum depression, bipolar disorder,anxiety,pre/post marital issues,addiction,trauma,crisis,sexual abuse and family conflict.
Ready to make a change, improve your communication skills, create more balance in your life? I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with 20 years of experience working with: adults, couples and families.
I have worked with people dealing with depression,postpartum depression, bipolar disorder,anxiety,pre/post marital issues,addiction,trauma,crisis,sexual abuse and family conflict.
Ready to make a change, improve your communication skills, create more balance in your life? I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with 20 years of experience working with: adults, couples and families.
(713) 597-2213 View (713) 597-2213
Photo of Tammy Marek, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tammy Marek
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Baytown, TX 77521
If you need help with divorce, grief, loss, bipolar, trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, decision making, stress mgt,anger issues,relationship issues, or if you are ready to make a life transition and need help.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by life's challenges? Are you struggling with self doubt, anxiety, sadness, loss or experiencing a life change? At times we all need help sorting out life's complexities. Many times, life changes can feel confusing or unbearable. You may feel alone and isolated, not good enough or afraid to make decisions as you navigate life. My role as a therapist is to serve as a guide to help you achieve personal growth, recognize your strengths and abilities and regain control of your life. Seeking to deal with passed trauma or abuse? I am an EMDR trained therapist. After 5:00pm availabile. Not seeing couples
If you need help with divorce, grief, loss, bipolar, trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, decision making, stress mgt,anger issues,relationship issues, or if you are ready to make a life transition and need help.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by life's challenges? Are you struggling with self doubt, anxiety, sadness, loss or experiencing a life change? At times we all need help sorting out life's complexities. Many times, life changes can feel confusing or unbearable. You may feel alone and isolated, not good enough or afraid to make decisions as you navigate life. My role as a therapist is to serve as a guide to help you achieve personal growth, recognize your strengths and abilities and regain control of your life. Seeking to deal with passed trauma or abuse? I am an EMDR trained therapist. After 5:00pm availabile. Not seeing couples
(936) 261-8408 View (936) 261-8408
Photo of Dr. Cardona Mitchell, EdD, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Cardona Mitchell
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77084  (Online Only)
Cardona Mitchell provide services for LGBT, Relationship issues, Grief, Intimacy-related issues, Sleeping disorders, Parenting issues, Anger management, Bipolar disorder, Coping with life changes, Compassion fatigue, and ADHD.
Dr. Cardona Mitchell is a licensed professional counselor in Texas with over 6 years of professional work experience. She is a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. She offers a full menu of therapeutic services including psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and dialectical behavior therapy. Therapy services are provided to clients of all ages. Dr. Mitchell takes great pride in her counseling practice. She holds a doctorate in education, and a master's in clinical mental health counseling, and is a board-certified counselor. She is a member of the American Counseling Association.
Cardona Mitchell provide services for LGBT, Relationship issues, Grief, Intimacy-related issues, Sleeping disorders, Parenting issues, Anger management, Bipolar disorder, Coping with life changes, Compassion fatigue, and ADHD.
Dr. Cardona Mitchell is a licensed professional counselor in Texas with over 6 years of professional work experience. She is a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. She offers a full menu of therapeutic services including psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and dialectical behavior therapy. Therapy services are provided to clients of all ages. Dr. Mitchell takes great pride in her counseling practice. She holds a doctorate in education, and a master's in clinical mental health counseling, and is a board-certified counselor. She is a member of the American Counseling Association.
(281) 916-3754 View (281) 916-3754
Photo of Flor Aponte, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Flor Aponte
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77058
My areas of specialization are Trauma, Suicidality, Crisis Intervention, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Life transitions, Family conflicts, couple therapy; Additional training in SBIRT (Screening, Brief Intervention, and referral to treatment), Motivational Interview training, and Accelerated resolution therapy (ART) trained.
“Your mental health is everything — prioritize it. Make the time like your life depends on it because it does.” — Mel Robbins. I believe that I didn't choose to be a mental health professional, the profession chose me. I remember helping my friends in High school with their traumas and life transition issues. The ability to connect and make people feel comfortable talking to me about their personal stories took me on this professional path. What I love the most about being a mental health professional is having the opportunity and privilege of being a part of people’s journeys.
My areas of specialization are Trauma, Suicidality, Crisis Intervention, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Life transitions, Family conflicts, couple therapy; Additional training in SBIRT (Screening, Brief Intervention, and referral to treatment), Motivational Interview training, and Accelerated resolution therapy (ART) trained.
“Your mental health is everything — prioritize it. Make the time like your life depends on it because it does.” — Mel Robbins. I believe that I didn't choose to be a mental health professional, the profession chose me. I remember helping my friends in High school with their traumas and life transition issues. The ability to connect and make people feel comfortable talking to me about their personal stories took me on this professional path. What I love the most about being a mental health professional is having the opportunity and privilege of being a part of people’s journeys.
(832) 481-7148 View (832) 481-7148
Photo of Kayla Jackson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kayla Jackson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kingwood, TX 77339
I have worked with concerns/diagnoses including: grief/loss, trauma, stress/anger management, family/relationship conflicts, social skills, depression, suicidal ideation, anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, and intellectual disabilities.
I try to create a safe, comfortable, and supportive environment for you to express yourself and help you reach your personal goals. There's no magic pill I can give you, but we can work together so you can develop the tools and coping skills you need to overcome obstacles and maximize your potential to make healthy choices and live the most fulfilling life possible.
I have worked with concerns/diagnoses including: grief/loss, trauma, stress/anger management, family/relationship conflicts, social skills, depression, suicidal ideation, anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, and intellectual disabilities.
I try to create a safe, comfortable, and supportive environment for you to express yourself and help you reach your personal goals. There's no magic pill I can give you, but we can work together so you can develop the tools and coping skills you need to overcome obstacles and maximize your potential to make healthy choices and live the most fulfilling life possible.
(832) 981-6227 View (832) 981-6227
Photo of Jia M. LeBlanc, MEd, LPC, CSC, CART, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jia M. LeBlanc
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, CSC, CART
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dickinson, TX 77539
Life often presents many challenges that can leave people feeling unequipped to cope. As a result, some feel they are only surviving instead of thriving. The good news is this does not have to be the case. If you'd like help making that transition, I may be of service to you. I have 12 years experience in the area of counseling, 7 of them as a licensed professional counselor. I help people work through grief, depression, anxiety, symptoms of bipolar disorder, relationship issues & anger management, among other areas of concern.
Life often presents many challenges that can leave people feeling unequipped to cope. As a result, some feel they are only surviving instead of thriving. The good news is this does not have to be the case. If you'd like help making that transition, I may be of service to you. I have 12 years experience in the area of counseling, 7 of them as a licensed professional counselor. I help people work through grief, depression, anxiety, symptoms of bipolar disorder, relationship issues & anger management, among other areas of concern.
(346) 258-5446 View (346) 258-5446
Photo of Tracy L. Williams - New Beginnings Counseling Team, MA, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
New Beginnings Counseling Team
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Port Neches, TX 77651
My specializations are anxiety, ADHD, depression, bipolar disorder, relationship issues and play therapy.
If you are looking for a therapist to help you reach your personal goals and highest potential, then we are a good match. I have successfully worked with many types of clients during my time as a clinician. I primarily see clients on Saturdays and some weekdays are available. If you call the number listed, please leave a message and I will return your call. If you want a quicker response, press the email button and send a message immediately.
My specializations are anxiety, ADHD, depression, bipolar disorder, relationship issues and play therapy.
If you are looking for a therapist to help you reach your personal goals and highest potential, then we are a good match. I have successfully worked with many types of clients during my time as a clinician. I primarily see clients on Saturdays and some weekdays are available. If you call the number listed, please leave a message and I will return your call. If you want a quicker response, press the email button and send a message immediately.
(409) 220-0266 View (409) 220-0266
Photo of Karisha Richards, MA, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Karisha Richards
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77002  (Online Only)
Welcome and thank you for visiting my profile, my name is Karisha and I am the owner of Delvon Behavioral Health! I am a fully Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor with 15 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. I specialize in teaching my clients how to manage symptoms of anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, and grief. I also have experience with clients who wish to explore their gender identity, exhibit symptoms of schizophrenia/psychosis, and bipolar disorder.
Welcome and thank you for visiting my profile, my name is Karisha and I am the owner of Delvon Behavioral Health! I am a fully Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor with 15 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. I specialize in teaching my clients how to manage symptoms of anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, and grief. I also have experience with clients who wish to explore their gender identity, exhibit symptoms of schizophrenia/psychosis, and bipolar disorder.
(903) 329-2946 View (903) 329-2946
Photo of Carla Badgett, MDiv, DMin, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Carla Badgett
Licensed Professional Counselor, MDiv, DMin, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beaumont, TX 77706
I have worked with people dealing with addiction, anger, anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, chronic pain, codependency, grief, insomnia, obsessive thinking patterns, trauma, and relationship issues.
Everyone goes through difficult times. We all have issues and there are moments that we can benefit by having a professional counselor listen and help us deal with anxiety, brokenness, confusion, depression, pain, grief, or problems in our relationships. Counseling can provide insights and guide us to discover new ways to cope, improve ourselves, find more enjoyment in life, increase self esteem, be healthier, build resilience, and communicate more effectively.
I have worked with people dealing with addiction, anger, anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, chronic pain, codependency, grief, insomnia, obsessive thinking patterns, trauma, and relationship issues.
Everyone goes through difficult times. We all have issues and there are moments that we can benefit by having a professional counselor listen and help us deal with anxiety, brokenness, confusion, depression, pain, grief, or problems in our relationships. Counseling can provide insights and guide us to discover new ways to cope, improve ourselves, find more enjoyment in life, increase self esteem, be healthier, build resilience, and communicate more effectively.
(409) 999-3054 View (409) 999-3054
Photo of Leslie R Davis, JD, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leslie R Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, JD, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Montgomery, TX 77316  (Online Only)
I help client's manage mental health challenges, including bipolar symptoms, anxiety, depression, trauma, and addiction.
Perhaps you are seeking a path of self-exploration or struggling with anxiety, depression or low self-esteem. You may need some additional time to talk and make some sense out the barriers to your personal goals. Or you may desire to learn practical skills to cope with your pain. Every person is unique, which means that our time together would be tailored to your particular needs based on cultural background, family dynamics and personal values. Either way, I will be present with you and assist you as you journey toward a meaningful life.
I help client's manage mental health challenges, including bipolar symptoms, anxiety, depression, trauma, and addiction.
Perhaps you are seeking a path of self-exploration or struggling with anxiety, depression or low self-esteem. You may need some additional time to talk and make some sense out the barriers to your personal goals. Or you may desire to learn practical skills to cope with your pain. Every person is unique, which means that our time together would be tailored to your particular needs based on cultural background, family dynamics and personal values. Either way, I will be present with you and assist you as you journey toward a meaningful life.
(415) 366-0587 View (415) 366-0587
Photo of Phil Ginsburg, MA, LPC, LMFT, LCDC, CSAT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Phil Ginsburg
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMFT, LCDC, CSAT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77065
I have experience with Dual Diagnosis, ADHD, Bipolar Disorders, Major Depression, Anxiety, and Trauma, and Clinical Hypnosis.
I believe that while you are the expert in your own life, that I can help you to expand your view of a problem and to find new possibilities for change. Whether the sessions are with an individual, couple or family, I view you, the client, as being embedded in various relationships. I believe that a person grows in relationships and it is my mission to help you resolve conflict, establish resources and improve relating skills needed to enhance the overall health of your life and your relationships. "To bring anything into your life, imagine that it's already there."
I have experience with Dual Diagnosis, ADHD, Bipolar Disorders, Major Depression, Anxiety, and Trauma, and Clinical Hypnosis.
I believe that while you are the expert in your own life, that I can help you to expand your view of a problem and to find new possibilities for change. Whether the sessions are with an individual, couple or family, I view you, the client, as being embedded in various relationships. I believe that a person grows in relationships and it is my mission to help you resolve conflict, establish resources and improve relating skills needed to enhance the overall health of your life and your relationships. "To bring anything into your life, imagine that it's already there."
(832) 390-0960 View (832) 390-0960
Photo of Rubina Pina, MEd, LPC, LCDC-i, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rubina Pina
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, LCDC-i
Verified Verified
Shenandoah, TX 77384
I have experience working with those struggling with anxiety, depression, anger or impulse control, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, substance use disorders, and legal issues.
Life. Is. HARD. I personally feel like that isn’t talked about enough. I think we try to convince ourselves that we should not be struggling, or we feel guilty for struggling. Give yourself permission to vent and get some guidance. You need someone who will listen and not minimize your situation or your feelings. Asking for help does not mean that you are not capable of handling things on your own but sometimes it’s just easier to have someone listen and offer support. If you are struggling with figuring out this thing called life or you just had a change develop, I want to help you navigate those!
I have experience working with those struggling with anxiety, depression, anger or impulse control, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, substance use disorders, and legal issues.
Life. Is. HARD. I personally feel like that isn’t talked about enough. I think we try to convince ourselves that we should not be struggling, or we feel guilty for struggling. Give yourself permission to vent and get some guidance. You need someone who will listen and not minimize your situation or your feelings. Asking for help does not mean that you are not capable of handling things on your own but sometimes it’s just easier to have someone listen and offer support. If you are struggling with figuring out this thing called life or you just had a change develop, I want to help you navigate those!
(832) 737-8959 View (832) 737-8959
Photo of Yara Castillo, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Yara Castillo
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77070  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating anxiety, life transitions, and Bipolar disorder.
I graduated from the University of Houston with an MEd in Counseling. I am passionate about helping others feel heard and validated. I have extensive experience working with populations with chronic mental illness. I have worked in inpatient hospital settings, partial hospitalization programs, intensive outpatient programs, and group and private practices. My style is Eclectic as I use a variety of therapeutic styles and interventions during sessions, such as Cognitive Behavioral therapy, Solution-Focused therapy, Mindfulness, Attachment-Based therapy and Strengths-Based therapy.
I specialize in treating anxiety, life transitions, and Bipolar disorder.
I graduated from the University of Houston with an MEd in Counseling. I am passionate about helping others feel heard and validated. I have extensive experience working with populations with chronic mental illness. I have worked in inpatient hospital settings, partial hospitalization programs, intensive outpatient programs, and group and private practices. My style is Eclectic as I use a variety of therapeutic styles and interventions during sessions, such as Cognitive Behavioral therapy, Solution-Focused therapy, Mindfulness, Attachment-Based therapy and Strengths-Based therapy.
(832) 219-8631 View (832) 219-8631

See more therapy options for Warren

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.