Photo of Valor Therapy, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wills Point, TX
Valor Therapy, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC, LCDC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Wills Point, TX 75169  (Online Only)
My name is Roberto "Robert" Guerrero, I am a bilingual Licensed Professional Counselor, Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor in Texas, and CCTP, National Certified Counselor (NCC) and BC-TMH provider. I have over nine years of experience in the field of mental health and chemical dependency, and currently operate a private counseling practice exclusively online near Dallas, Texas. I primarily work with young adults and adults who are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, grief, career issues, relationship and marriage problems, and other life challenges. I also offer consulting services for business professionals.
My name is Roberto "Robert" Guerrero, I am a bilingual Licensed Professional Counselor, Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor in Texas, and CCTP, National Certified Counselor (NCC) and BC-TMH provider. I have over nine years of experience in the field of mental health and chemical dependency, and currently operate a private counseling practice exclusively online near Dallas, Texas. I primarily work with young adults and adults who are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, grief, career issues, relationship and marriage problems, and other life challenges. I also offer consulting services for business professionals.
(214) 833-8162 View (214) 833-8162
Photo of Danita R Duncan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wills Point, TX
Danita R Duncan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Wills Point, TX 75169
I work with individual adults who need support due to the effects of trauma, anxiety, depression, grief/loss and relationship issues. My work incorporates a structured approach to reduce symptoms. I offer tangible tools to help you fight the effects of substance use/abuse and calm down reactive responses. I can help with family/relational issues to improve your quality of life.
I work with individual adults who need support due to the effects of trauma, anxiety, depression, grief/loss and relationship issues. My work incorporates a structured approach to reduce symptoms. I offer tangible tools to help you fight the effects of substance use/abuse and calm down reactive responses. I can help with family/relational issues to improve your quality of life.
(214) 463-2861 View (214) 463-2861

Online Therapists

Photo of Megan Rasmussen, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wills Point, TX
Megan Rasmussen
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Frisco, TX 75034
Amongst Megan’s areas of expertise are the treatment of Anxiety, Depression, Adjustment Disorder, Alcohol/ Chemical Dependency, Anger Management, Attachment Disorders, ADHD, Behavior Modification, Bipolar Disorder, Codependency, Domestic Violence, Disordered Eating, Gender Identity/ Sexuality, LGBTQIA+, Impulse Disorder, Mood Disorders, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Panic Disorder, Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Psychotic Disorder, Self-harm, Suicide Ideation, Sleep Disorders, Stress Management, Trauma, and Women’s Issues. She enjoys working with teenagers, adults, couples, and families.
Amongst Megan’s areas of expertise are the treatment of Anxiety, Depression, Adjustment Disorder, Alcohol/ Chemical Dependency, Anger Management, Attachment Disorders, ADHD, Behavior Modification, Bipolar Disorder, Codependency, Domestic Violence, Disordered Eating, Gender Identity/ Sexuality, LGBTQIA+, Impulse Disorder, Mood Disorders, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Panic Disorder, Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Psychotic Disorder, Self-harm, Suicide Ideation, Sleep Disorders, Stress Management, Trauma, and Women’s Issues. She enjoys working with teenagers, adults, couples, and families.
(214) 307-6252 View (214) 307-6252
Photo of Connie M. Siciliano Avila, Psychologist in Wills Point, TX
Connie M. Siciliano Avila
Psychologist, PhD, LP, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Rockwall, TX 75087
My focus is on trauma, addiction, and relationships. Do you want to get control of your life, emotions or lack of emotions, stop problem behaviors, improve self-esteem, improve relationships, cope, and stop harmful thoughts? I have extensive experience in clinical and nonclinical settings with issues, such as abuse, relationships, addictions, depression, anxiety, dissociation, PTSD, alcohol abuse, and bipolar disorders. Also, past client concerns included: personality disorders, grief, anger, divorce, parenting, codependency, GLBTQ, multicultural, spiritual, DID, and men/women issues. Call for a free consultation.
My focus is on trauma, addiction, and relationships. Do you want to get control of your life, emotions or lack of emotions, stop problem behaviors, improve self-esteem, improve relationships, cope, and stop harmful thoughts? I have extensive experience in clinical and nonclinical settings with issues, such as abuse, relationships, addictions, depression, anxiety, dissociation, PTSD, alcohol abuse, and bipolar disorders. Also, past client concerns included: personality disorders, grief, anger, divorce, parenting, codependency, GLBTQ, multicultural, spiritual, DID, and men/women issues. Call for a free consultation.
(214) 830-9879 View (214) 830-9879
Photo of Landry Therapy Group PLLC - Arlington, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wills Point, TX
Landry Therapy Group PLLC - Arlington
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, TX 76012  (Online Only)
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 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 struggles with which they are confronted. Lisa works with adults, individuals, couples, and LGBTQ+. Our other 8 therapists work with children, adolescents, adults, and families. We help clients with anxiety, depression, self harm/suicidal ideation, trauma, addiction, issues resulting from trauma, and life's daily struggles. We would like to help you foster a healthier style of living to ensure your 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 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 struggles with which they are confronted. Lisa works with adults, individuals, couples, and LGBTQ+. Our other 8 therapists work with children, adolescents, adults, and families. We help clients with anxiety, depression, self harm/suicidal ideation, trauma, addiction, issues resulting from trauma, and life's daily struggles. We would like to help you foster a healthier style of living to ensure your future well-being.
(214) 234-9157 View (214) 234-9157
Photo of Urban Counseling Clique, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wills Point, 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 Jennifer Piazza, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wills Point, TX
Jennifer Piazza
Licensed Professional Counselor, MBA, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Tyler, TX 75703
I have experience and interest in a wide range of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, chronic pain, childhood abuse, and stress management.
The decision to reach out for counseling can be one of the most important and helpful things you can do for your mental health and wellbeing. The process can be frightening and uncomfortable. Sometimes we have to take a step outside of our comfort zones and try something new. One of my professional goals is to help build a calm environment and strong therapeutic relationship conducive to meaningful change.
I have experience and interest in a wide range of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, chronic pain, childhood abuse, and stress management.
The decision to reach out for counseling can be one of the most important and helpful things you can do for your mental health and wellbeing. The process can be frightening and uncomfortable. Sometimes we have to take a step outside of our comfort zones and try something new. One of my professional goals is to help build a calm environment and strong therapeutic relationship conducive to meaningful change.
(903) 309-2217 View (903) 309-2217
Photo of Erica Sewell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wills Point, TX
Erica Sewell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, RPT, CAS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75252
My specialty areas include Autism Spectrum Disorder, Down Syndrome/Intellectual Disabilities, Rare Genetic Disorders, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Chronic Medical Conditions, ADHD, Grief, Self-Esteem, and Life Transitions.
In celebration of each individual's strengths and unique qualities, I offer an individualized approach that is customized to the needs of each client. I believe that with support, guidance, compassion, and understanding people have the ability to not only find solutions to their challenges, but the strength to make positive changes. I am passionate about working with children, teens, adults, and families and offer play therapy, activity therapy, expressive arts, and/or traditional talk therapy. I practice from a neurodiversity affirming lens where we focus on empowerment and appreciating everyone's unique differences.
My specialty areas include Autism Spectrum Disorder, Down Syndrome/Intellectual Disabilities, Rare Genetic Disorders, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Chronic Medical Conditions, ADHD, Grief, Self-Esteem, and Life Transitions.
In celebration of each individual's strengths and unique qualities, I offer an individualized approach that is customized to the needs of each client. I believe that with support, guidance, compassion, and understanding people have the ability to not only find solutions to their challenges, but the strength to make positive changes. I am passionate about working with children, teens, adults, and families and offer play therapy, activity therapy, expressive arts, and/or traditional talk therapy. I practice from a neurodiversity affirming lens where we focus on empowerment and appreciating everyone's unique differences.
(469) 871-6316 View (469) 871-6316
Photo of Ariel Burns, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wills Point, TX
Ariel Burns
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75024
Ariel specializes in treating LGBTQIA+, Mood Disorders, Anxiety, Minority Issues, and Self-Harm. In addition, she can also treat Depression, Attachment Disorder, Adoption Issues, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, Child Abuse/Neglect, Codependency Issues, Couples Therapy, Domestic Violence, Gender Identity, Impulse Disorders, Panic Disorder, Parenting Issues, Post-Partum Depression, PTSD, Self-Harm, Sexual Abuse, Stress Management, and Women’s Issues. Ariel enjoys working with children ages 12 and up, adolescents, adults, and couples.
Ariel specializes in treating LGBTQIA+, Mood Disorders, Anxiety, Minority Issues, and Self-Harm. In addition, she can also treat Depression, Attachment Disorder, Adoption Issues, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, Child Abuse/Neglect, Codependency Issues, Couples Therapy, Domestic Violence, Gender Identity, Impulse Disorders, Panic Disorder, Parenting Issues, Post-Partum Depression, PTSD, Self-Harm, Sexual Abuse, Stress Management, and Women’s Issues. Ariel enjoys working with children ages 12 and up, adolescents, adults, and couples.
(214) 319-8944 View (214) 319-8944
Photo of Erika Rios, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wills Point, TX
Erika Rios
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
Arlington, TX 76006  (Online Only)
I've worked with people who are experiencing depression, anxiety, loss, addictions, parenting challenges, co-parenting transitions, trauma, relationship challenges, bipolar disorder and the list goes on.
Tired of being tired, feeling helpless, hopeless, empty? Life is feeling overwhelming or unmanageable? I understand and I’m here to say it doesn’t have to be that way. This is a difficult step, accepting that something needs to change. Together we will navigate through all the things that are forming a barrier to your ability to feel whole.
I've worked with people who are experiencing depression, anxiety, loss, addictions, parenting challenges, co-parenting transitions, trauma, relationship challenges, bipolar disorder and the list goes on.
Tired of being tired, feeling helpless, hopeless, empty? Life is feeling overwhelming or unmanageable? I understand and I’m here to say it doesn’t have to be that way. This is a difficult step, accepting that something needs to change. Together we will navigate through all the things that are forming a barrier to your ability to feel whole.
(361) 314-2319 View (361) 314-2319
Photo of Barbara Armitage, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wills Point, TX
Barbara Armitage
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LPC-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75075
I specialize in various life challenges, such as: depression, anxiety, stress, bipolar disorder, abuse, grief/loss issues, communication problems and relationship issues.
It is my intention and my hope to bring warmth, comfort, skill, mindfulness, confidentiality and good humor into each client partnership.
I specialize in various life challenges, such as: depression, anxiety, stress, bipolar disorder, abuse, grief/loss issues, communication problems and relationship issues.
It is my intention and my hope to bring warmth, comfort, skill, mindfulness, confidentiality and good humor into each client partnership.
(469) 844-4258 View (469) 844-4258
Photo of Peter T Cosens, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wills Point, TX
Peter T Cosens
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSc, LPC, LDCD, NCC, LPHA
Verified Verified
Duncanville, TX 75137
The decision to seek therapy is a very personal decision. Often, people choose therapy during times of stress & emotional pain. It may also be when you want to grow & mature. I'm experienced in treating an array of issues & disorders, including, but not limited to: · Addictions (Substance and Process) · Major Depression Disorder · Adult Children of Alcoholics · Men's Issues · Military/Veterans · Anxiety Disorders · Mood Disorder · Bipolar Disorder · Panic Disorders - Co-dependence · Personal Growth · Crisis/Trauma Recovery · Schizoaffective Disorder · Dually Diagnosed Individuals · Schizophrenia · Ex-offenders · Self-Esteem - Grief/Loss Counseling · Spirituality · Impaired Professionals · Stress Management · Life Events/Transitions · Substance Abuse/Dependence
The decision to seek therapy is a very personal decision. Often, people choose therapy during times of stress & emotional pain. It may also be when you want to grow & mature. I'm experienced in treating an array of issues & disorders, including, but not limited to: · Addictions (Substance and Process) · Major Depression Disorder · Adult Children of Alcoholics · Men's Issues · Military/Veterans · Anxiety Disorders · Mood Disorder · Bipolar Disorder · Panic Disorders - Co-dependence · Personal Growth · Crisis/Trauma Recovery · Schizoaffective Disorder · Dually Diagnosed Individuals · Schizophrenia · Ex-offenders · Self-Esteem - Grief/Loss Counseling · Spirituality · Impaired Professionals · Stress Management · Life Events/Transitions · Substance Abuse/Dependence
(469) 202-9147 View (469) 202-9147
Photo of Dr. Sonya Gray Belcher, Psychologist in Wills Point, TX
Dr. Sonya Gray Belcher
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Lewisville, TX 75067  (Online Only)
I enjoy helping adults dealing with a variety of issues like depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, grief, trauma, low self-esteem, low motivation, spiritual issues and relationship issues in individual counseling.
As a psychologist I counsel many people who feel they are at their lowest point even when no one knows they are feeling this way. I also counsel people who just need a listening ear and support. Your willingness to seek more from your life instead of living with the status quo is admirable.
I enjoy helping adults dealing with a variety of issues like depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, grief, trauma, low self-esteem, low motivation, spiritual issues and relationship issues in individual counseling.
As a psychologist I counsel many people who feel they are at their lowest point even when no one knows they are feeling this way. I also counsel people who just need a listening ear and support. Your willingness to seek more from your life instead of living with the status quo is admirable.
(817) 242-9802 View (817) 242-9802
Photo of Teresa Tribett, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wills Point, TX
Teresa Tribett
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75243
I have over 15 years of experience treating those struggling with depression, trauma disorders, anxiety related disorders, mood disorders to include bipolar disorder, relationship issues, self-esteem, and systematic family conflict to include parenting issues.
My clients would describe me as easy to talk to, a great listener, honest, and informed. I find great value in creating a foundation of trust and comfortability so my clients can work to meet their therapeutic goals. Counseling is most effective when the client feels accepted and believes the therapist genuinely cares about the topics discussed during session. It is a privilege to be a part of one's journey to improve, change, or maintain aspects in their life. I truly care about each of my client's health and well-being.
I have over 15 years of experience treating those struggling with depression, trauma disorders, anxiety related disorders, mood disorders to include bipolar disorder, relationship issues, self-esteem, and systematic family conflict to include parenting issues.
My clients would describe me as easy to talk to, a great listener, honest, and informed. I find great value in creating a foundation of trust and comfortability so my clients can work to meet their therapeutic goals. Counseling is most effective when the client feels accepted and believes the therapist genuinely cares about the topics discussed during session. It is a privilege to be a part of one's journey to improve, change, or maintain aspects in their life. I truly care about each of my client's health and well-being.
(214) 833-8301 View (214) 833-8301
Photo of Lindsey Grela, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wills Point, TX
Lindsey Grela
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Little Elm, TX 75068
Lindsey has experience working in a domestic violence outreach center, a community health crisis center, and a behavioral day treatment program for children and adolescents. As a part of her experience, Lindsey has worked with children and adults struggling with a variety of concerns, including, but not limited to: Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Abuse, Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar disorder, Grief, Relationship Concerns, and Personal Identity.
Lindsey has experience working in a domestic violence outreach center, a community health crisis center, and a behavioral day treatment program for children and adolescents. As a part of her experience, Lindsey has worked with children and adults struggling with a variety of concerns, including, but not limited to: Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Abuse, Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar disorder, Grief, Relationship Concerns, and Personal Identity.
(214) 225-2751 View (214) 225-2751
Photo of Melissa A Gonzales, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wills Point, TX
Melissa A Gonzales
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MEd
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76244  (Online Only)
I offer a great skills set for adults that struggle with substance use, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder.
Hi my name is Melissa and I am a licensed professional counselor. My focus is to help others along their path to change, self reflection and healing.
I offer a great skills set for adults that struggle with substance use, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder.
Hi my name is Melissa and I am a licensed professional counselor. My focus is to help others along their path to change, self reflection and healing.
(832) 536-6676 View (832) 536-6676
Photo of Jennifer Jobe, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wills Point, TX
Jennifer Jobe
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frisco, TX 75034
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 Rob Novick, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wills Point, TX
Rob Novick, LCSW-S
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, MSSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
Additionally, I help those diagnosed with a mental illness, like Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective Disorder, and Bipolar.
Starting therapy for the first time or finding a new therapist can be stressful and anxiety-provoking. My goal is to help you feel comfortable from our first conversation. I believe everyone has the capability and strength to face whatever life has to offer, even when it seems overwhelming. By providing a safe, warm, caring environment, my clients can freely express themselves without judgment. I actively participate in my client's treatment by offering reflections, suggestions, ideas, and homework. My main therapeutic approach is cognitive behavioral, along with mindfulness, and solution-focused therapy.
Additionally, I help those diagnosed with a mental illness, like Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective Disorder, and Bipolar.
Starting therapy for the first time or finding a new therapist can be stressful and anxiety-provoking. My goal is to help you feel comfortable from our first conversation. I believe everyone has the capability and strength to face whatever life has to offer, even when it seems overwhelming. By providing a safe, warm, caring environment, my clients can freely express themselves without judgment. I actively participate in my client's treatment by offering reflections, suggestions, ideas, and homework. My main therapeutic approach is cognitive behavioral, along with mindfulness, and solution-focused therapy.
(214) 740-3929 View (214) 740-3929
Photo of Bryan Gray, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Wills Point, TX
Bryan Gray
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPC-A, MA
Verified Verified
Garland, TX 75043
Hello, I'm Bryan Gray. I understand that you are looking for someone who can offer high-quality services, is relatable, and truly understands your needs. I have a wealth of experience working with diverse individuals and tackling a wide range of issues. I'm here to provide support and guidance, regardless of the mental health challenges you're encountering. Whether it's anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, or any other condition, please know that you don't have to face it alone. I offer a safe and inclusive environment where you can feel welcome.
Hello, I'm Bryan Gray. I understand that you are looking for someone who can offer high-quality services, is relatable, and truly understands your needs. I have a wealth of experience working with diverse individuals and tackling a wide range of issues. I'm here to provide support and guidance, regardless of the mental health challenges you're encountering. Whether it's anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, or any other condition, please know that you don't have to face it alone. I offer a safe and inclusive environment where you can feel welcome.
(972) 787-2038 View (972) 787-2038
Photo of Yu-Fen Lin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wills Point, 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

See more therapy options for Wills Point

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.