Photo of Lisa Toth, Counselor in Winnsboro, TX
Lisa Toth
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Winnsboro, TX 75494
Hello, my name is Lisa Toth. I am a licensed mental health counselor in the state of Indiana. I collaboratively work with clients to set and achieve their goals. I am passionate to help those who are hurting, those who seek healing, and those who desire to change. I typically work with adult individuals (ages 18 and older). The most common conditions that I see are those struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, Bipolar Disorders, and adjustment disorders/transition of life stages, etc. I also have a passion for faith/spirituality and welcome this if clients would like to incorporate this into counseling.
Hello, my name is Lisa Toth. I am a licensed mental health counselor in the state of Indiana. I collaboratively work with clients to set and achieve their goals. I am passionate to help those who are hurting, those who seek healing, and those who desire to change. I typically work with adult individuals (ages 18 and older). The most common conditions that I see are those struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, Bipolar Disorders, and adjustment disorders/transition of life stages, etc. I also have a passion for faith/spirituality and welcome this if clients would like to incorporate this into counseling.
(903) 403-2861 View (903) 403-2861

Online Therapists

Photo of Myrtle Hawkins, Licensed Professional Counselor in Winnsboro, TX
Myrtle Hawkins
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LPHA
Verified Verified
Mesquite, TX 75149  (Online Only)
I have extensive volunteer/training working in local Inpatient hospitals with all populations dealing with Bipolar, Schizophrenia and Borderline Personality as the program manager dealing with the acute status to outpatient services.
Are you sad and confused? I can help you understand the thoughts and feelings that influence behaviors. You can get help through counseling. It is generally short-term and focused on helping you deal with a very specific problem; Virtual only (M,W,Thur 10 or 11), M-F (appointments after 5 pm CST), Saturdays (9-2p) "virtual appointments only". I am experienced in treating a wide range of disorders including: phobias, addictions, depression, and anxiety, couples issues, divorce issues and trauma.
I have extensive volunteer/training working in local Inpatient hospitals with all populations dealing with Bipolar, Schizophrenia and Borderline Personality as the program manager dealing with the acute status to outpatient services.
Are you sad and confused? I can help you understand the thoughts and feelings that influence behaviors. You can get help through counseling. It is generally short-term and focused on helping you deal with a very specific problem; Virtual only (M,W,Thur 10 or 11), M-F (appointments after 5 pm CST), Saturdays (9-2p) "virtual appointments only". I am experienced in treating a wide range of disorders including: phobias, addictions, depression, and anxiety, couples issues, divorce issues and trauma.
(972) 573-9733 View (972) 573-9733
Photo of Jennifer Brobst, Psychologist in Winnsboro, TX
Jennifer Brobst
Psychologist, PhD, LSSP
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75024
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and a Licensed Specialist in School Psychology. I love working with adults, teenagers, children, and families. I have experience helping patients with depression, anxiety, bipolar, autism and other developmental disabilities, OCD, ADHD, family concerns, parenting stress, career and academic concerns, as well as traumatic experiences. In addition, I have extensive experience in grief therapy during times of loss, such as in a time of death, divorce, and other significant life changes. I also enjoy working on goals of self-improvement, self-awareness, and compassion with my patients.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and a Licensed Specialist in School Psychology. I love working with adults, teenagers, children, and families. I have experience helping patients with depression, anxiety, bipolar, autism and other developmental disabilities, OCD, ADHD, family concerns, parenting stress, career and academic concerns, as well as traumatic experiences. In addition, I have extensive experience in grief therapy during times of loss, such as in a time of death, divorce, and other significant life changes. I also enjoy working on goals of self-improvement, self-awareness, and compassion with my patients.
(972) 833-0114 View (972) 833-0114
Photo of Jordan Doyle, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Winnsboro, TX
Jordan Doyle
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Frisco, TX 75035
I specialize in treating: suicidal ideation, self-harm, substance use/addiction, disordered eating, & emotion regulation concerns that accompany depression, anxiety, bipolar, & trauma/PTSD. There's an exhaustion & isolation that often come with these struggles. Clients I work with may feel trapped in a cycle, simultaneously yearning for change and fearing it. These behaviors & feelings can become deeply ingrained in one's identity, making the idea of letting go daunting. I want my clients to know there's more to them than their struggles. I'm here to support and guide them as they uncover their resilience and empowerment.
I specialize in treating: suicidal ideation, self-harm, substance use/addiction, disordered eating, & emotion regulation concerns that accompany depression, anxiety, bipolar, & trauma/PTSD. There's an exhaustion & isolation that often come with these struggles. Clients I work with may feel trapped in a cycle, simultaneously yearning for change and fearing it. These behaviors & feelings can become deeply ingrained in one's identity, making the idea of letting go daunting. I want my clients to know there's more to them than their struggles. I'm here to support and guide them as they uncover their resilience and empowerment.
(469) 645-8944 View (469) 645-8944
Photo of Kay Fontenot, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Winnsboro, 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 Jessica Corsaro, Licensed Professional Counselor in Winnsboro, TX
Jessica Corsaro
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75075
My specialties include: Adults of all ages, Anxiety, Self-esteem, Trauma, Veterans, Personality Disorders, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Self-harm and Depression.
If you are looking for a genuine, down-to-earth, non-judgmental counselor, then look no further! I have a special interest in helping people who are having a difficult time navigating life challenges, especially anyone from young adults to older adults. Another aspect of my work that I enjoy is working with clients who suffer from Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, PTSD, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and Hoarding Disorder.
My specialties include: Adults of all ages, Anxiety, Self-esteem, Trauma, Veterans, Personality Disorders, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Self-harm and Depression.
If you are looking for a genuine, down-to-earth, non-judgmental counselor, then look no further! I have a special interest in helping people who are having a difficult time navigating life challenges, especially anyone from young adults to older adults. Another aspect of my work that I enjoy is working with clients who suffer from Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, PTSD, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and Hoarding Disorder.
(972) 885-6650 View (972) 885-6650
Photo of Dorothy Seely, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Winnsboro, TX
Dorothy Seely
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rockwall, TX 75087  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and trauma in adults and seniors. I firmly believe that understanding the underlying reasons behind behaviors is crucial for the healing process. I have also worked extensively with addiction, chronic illness, life transitions, grief, and loss. I have experience working with neurodivergent individuals. Creating a welcoming and encouraging space is important to me, as it allows for open discussions about your unique journey.
I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and trauma in adults and seniors. I firmly believe that understanding the underlying reasons behind behaviors is crucial for the healing process. I have also worked extensively with addiction, chronic illness, life transitions, grief, and loss. I have experience working with neurodivergent individuals. Creating a welcoming and encouraging space is important to me, as it allows for open discussions about your unique journey.
(512) 768-2731 View (512) 768-2731
Photo of Yas Farrokh, Licensed Professional Counselor in Winnsboro, TX
Yas Farrokh
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Carrollton, TX 75010
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and counselor supervisor with over 14 years of clinical experience. I work with adult individuals, adolescents, children, couples and families, using a variety of therapeutic techniques. I have vast experience working with issues related to trauma, depression, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, anger management, mood disorders, anxiety, employment and work place problems, and grief.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and counselor supervisor with over 14 years of clinical experience. I work with adult individuals, adolescents, children, couples and families, using a variety of therapeutic techniques. I have vast experience working with issues related to trauma, depression, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, anger management, mood disorders, anxiety, employment and work place problems, and grief.
(469) 294-8291 View (469) 294-8291
Photo of Mimi Walke, Licensed Professional Counselor in Winnsboro, 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 Spandana Maitra, Licensed Professional Counselor in Winnsboro, TX
Spandana Maitra
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Coppell, TX 75019
I welcome any individual into the space of counseling and working on personal goals. Whether you struggle with anxiety, depression, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, or need some support through a life transition - my hope is that you find safety and comfort within the space we create together. The hardest part about therapy is making that first call, and for you to have done that is a brave thing. The main hope I have for you is the courage to be vulnerable in this nonjudgmental space - we can get there together and start pursuing the life you want for yourself!
I welcome any individual into the space of counseling and working on personal goals. Whether you struggle with anxiety, depression, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, or need some support through a life transition - my hope is that you find safety and comfort within the space we create together. The hardest part about therapy is making that first call, and for you to have done that is a brave thing. The main hope I have for you is the courage to be vulnerable in this nonjudgmental space - we can get there together and start pursuing the life you want for yourself!
(469) 489-3913 View (469) 489-3913
Photo of Caroline Lopez, Licensed Master Social Worker in Winnsboro, TX
Caroline Lopez
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75287
My experience includes depression, self-harm, bipolar disorder, anxiety, intellectual and developmental disorders, substance misuse, and homelessness.
My first priority in establishing a trusting therapeutic relationship is building rapport. I want to ensure that the treatment goals that you're working on are catered to your individual needs and wants. Throughout life, we encounter various hurdles, issues, and obstacles. I want to be the one who teaches you the applicable coping skills correlating with your situation and where you are in your life. Mental health recovery is a journey that can at times seem overwhelming, however- I feel like together that we can collaborate in order to help you to move forward confidently. I am a Licensed Master Social Worker in the state of Texas.
My experience includes depression, self-harm, bipolar disorder, anxiety, intellectual and developmental disorders, substance misuse, and homelessness.
My first priority in establishing a trusting therapeutic relationship is building rapport. I want to ensure that the treatment goals that you're working on are catered to your individual needs and wants. Throughout life, we encounter various hurdles, issues, and obstacles. I want to be the one who teaches you the applicable coping skills correlating with your situation and where you are in your life. Mental health recovery is a journey that can at times seem overwhelming, however- I feel like together that we can collaborate in order to help you to move forward confidently. I am a Licensed Master Social Worker in the state of Texas.
(972) 635-4921 View (972) 635-4921
Photo of Denise Smith, Licensed Professional Counselor in Winnsboro, TX
Denise Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Edgewood, TX 75117
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) 213-4499 View (430) 213-4499
Photo of Jennifer Jobe, Licensed Professional Counselor in Winnsboro, 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 Marci'a Blake, Licensed Professional Counselor in Winnsboro, TX
Marci'a Blake
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with nearly 15 years of experience helping people navigate the difficult seasons of life. I place a high value on rapport building and strongly believe that each client is an expert on themselves. I have a wide range of skills helping adolescents and adults with issues such as depression, anxiety, bipolar, grief and loss, borderline personality disorder, trauma, school related issues, adjustment and substance use disorders.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with nearly 15 years of experience helping people navigate the difficult seasons of life. I place a high value on rapport building and strongly believe that each client is an expert on themselves. I have a wide range of skills helping adolescents and adults with issues such as depression, anxiety, bipolar, grief and loss, borderline personality disorder, trauma, school related issues, adjustment and substance use disorders.
(469) 529-6022 View (469) 529-6022
Photo of Andrea Cunningham, Licensed Professional Counselor in Winnsboro, TX
Andrea Cunningham
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S, CYT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75023
I am highly skilled in treating mood and anxiety disorders including depression and bipolar disorders, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, OCD, PTSD, and Social Anxiety Disorder.
I am committed to helping my clients achieve their goals. I believe that counseling can promote a lifestyle that results in physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. I focus on the client as a whole individual, rather than a disorder, and encourage healthy behaviors across various aspects of life. I conceptualize individuals and form treatment plans tailored to each client's unique characteristics, strengths, values, and needs. I work diligently to create a safe, empathic, and supportive environment for my clients.
I am highly skilled in treating mood and anxiety disorders including depression and bipolar disorders, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, OCD, PTSD, and Social Anxiety Disorder.
I am committed to helping my clients achieve their goals. I believe that counseling can promote a lifestyle that results in physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. I focus on the client as a whole individual, rather than a disorder, and encourage healthy behaviors across various aspects of life. I conceptualize individuals and form treatment plans tailored to each client's unique characteristics, strengths, values, and needs. I work diligently to create a safe, empathic, and supportive environment for my clients.
(972) 362-6668 View (972) 362-6668
Photo of Elizabeth Cooper, Counselor in Winnsboro, TX
Elizabeth Cooper
Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Cedar Hill, TX 75104
Life's challenges can leave us feeling stuck or isolated as if we need to hide our pain and carry these burdens alone. But what happens if these burdens are too heavy to bear? That's where I come in. As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I am here to offer you a guiding hand through some of life's toughest moments. Whether you're navigating the aftermath of a miscarriage, adjusting to life postpartum, or grappling with a bipolar disorder diagnosis, you don't have to face it alone. Together, we can work to move through these changes and onto the next chapter of your life.
Life's challenges can leave us feeling stuck or isolated as if we need to hide our pain and carry these burdens alone. But what happens if these burdens are too heavy to bear? That's where I come in. As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I am here to offer you a guiding hand through some of life's toughest moments. Whether you're navigating the aftermath of a miscarriage, adjusting to life postpartum, or grappling with a bipolar disorder diagnosis, you don't have to face it alone. Together, we can work to move through these changes and onto the next chapter of your life.
(469) 828-2319 View (469) 828-2319
Photo of Megan Rasmussen, Licensed Professional Counselor in Winnsboro, 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 Samantha Wilson, Psychological Associate in Winnsboro, TX
Samantha Wilson
Psychological Associate, MS, LPA, BCN
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070  (Online Only)
Samantha Wilson, M.S., LPA, earned her master’s degree in Clinical Psychology with a specialization in Neuropsychology from the University of Texas at Tyler. A clinician offering experience with child (10+), adolescent, adult individual psychotherapy and couples counseling, Samantha specializes in the treatment of trauma, PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder), depression, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, anxiety, various mood disorders, sexual abuse and relationship concerns. She is well versed in Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), depression and anxiety due to childhood trauma.
Samantha Wilson, M.S., LPA, earned her master’s degree in Clinical Psychology with a specialization in Neuropsychology from the University of Texas at Tyler. A clinician offering experience with child (10+), adolescent, adult individual psychotherapy and couples counseling, Samantha specializes in the treatment of trauma, PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder), depression, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, anxiety, various mood disorders, sexual abuse and relationship concerns. She is well versed in Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), depression and anxiety due to childhood trauma.
(972) 498-1670 View (972) 498-1670
Photo of Caitlin Young, Licensed Professional Counselor in Winnsboro, TX
Caitlin Young
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75204  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating adults and adolescents with anxiety, depression, life transitions, and PTSD. I also have experience working with Bipolar Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, personality disorders, and disordered eating. My therapeutic approach revolves around person-centered care and incorporates mindfulness techniques to help you develop resiliency and make empowering life decisions. I deeply empathize with your experiences and attentively listen to your concerns, creating a safe space for open communication and building trust.
I specialize in treating adults and adolescents with anxiety, depression, life transitions, and PTSD. I also have experience working with Bipolar Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, personality disorders, and disordered eating. My therapeutic approach revolves around person-centered care and incorporates mindfulness techniques to help you develop resiliency and make empowering life decisions. I deeply empathize with your experiences and attentively listen to your concerns, creating a safe space for open communication and building trust.
(512) 768-2731 View (512) 768-2731
Photo of Zeeshan Hussain, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Winnsboro, TX
Zeeshan Hussain
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75071
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate under the supervision of Laurie Todd, LPC-S in the state of Texas. I hold a MA in Counseling Psychology from Texas Woman’s University, where I gained specialization in various treatment modalities. I have experience working with clients who presented with symptoms of depression, anxiety, bipolar and personality disorders, life adjustment stressors, trauma, and more.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate under the supervision of Laurie Todd, LPC-S in the state of Texas. I hold a MA in Counseling Psychology from Texas Woman’s University, where I gained specialization in various treatment modalities. I have experience working with clients who presented with symptoms of depression, anxiety, bipolar and personality disorders, life adjustment stressors, trauma, and more.
(972) 449-4151 View (972) 449-4151

See more therapy options for Winnsboro

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.