Photo of Sandra Galyon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Burnet, TX
Sandra Galyon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burnet, TX 78611
Life can be rough, and sometimes we need a little help getting by and coping. I have always been led to help people, and have found my calling in counseling people through their trials. I have worked with individuals of various ages and issues. My goal is to help you build coping skills to get you over the challenges in your daily life and return to a sense of balance and serenity.
Life can be rough, and sometimes we need a little help getting by and coping. I have always been led to help people, and have found my calling in counseling people through their trials. I have worked with individuals of various ages and issues. My goal is to help you build coping skills to get you over the challenges in your daily life and return to a sense of balance and serenity.
(830) 201-3028 View (830) 201-3028

Online Therapists

Photo of Tony Vitela, LCSW, SAP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Burnet, TX
Tony Vitela, LCSW, SAP
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SAP
Verified Verified
Wimberley, TX 78676
I work with clients on a spectrum of issues including ADD/ADHD/ODD, Alcohol & Drugs, Anger Management, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorders, Conduct Disorders, Depression, Eating Disorders, Grief & Bereveavement, Life Transitions, Military Life Issues, OCD, Panic Atttacks, Parenting, Phobias, Psychotic Disorders, PTSD, Relationships, and Work-related Issues.
Licensed since 1993 and in private practice since 1999. Previous work-related experience includes working at a residential treatment center, youth shelter, juvenile detention center, chemical dependency unit, adolescent and adult in-patient hospital, Employee Assistance Program, crisis intervention, in-take assessments, and intensive out-patient programming. Over the past two decades, I have served individuals, couples, families, children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly. I am a certified and approved DOT Substance Abuse Professional.
I work with clients on a spectrum of issues including ADD/ADHD/ODD, Alcohol & Drugs, Anger Management, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorders, Conduct Disorders, Depression, Eating Disorders, Grief & Bereveavement, Life Transitions, Military Life Issues, OCD, Panic Atttacks, Parenting, Phobias, Psychotic Disorders, PTSD, Relationships, and Work-related Issues.
Licensed since 1993 and in private practice since 1999. Previous work-related experience includes working at a residential treatment center, youth shelter, juvenile detention center, chemical dependency unit, adolescent and adult in-patient hospital, Employee Assistance Program, crisis intervention, in-take assessments, and intensive out-patient programming. Over the past two decades, I have served individuals, couples, families, children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly. I am a certified and approved DOT Substance Abuse Professional.
(210) 941-2132 View (210) 941-2132
Photo of Katherine Kainer, Psychologist in Burnet, TX
Katherine Kainer
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78212
Hello! My name is Dr. Katherine (Katie) Kainer and I am a licensed psychologist based in San Antonio, TX. I am the owner of ReNew Psychological Services, PLLC, and provide virtual therapy to clients all over Texas. I work with adults who experience various difficulties, including depression, anxiety, social anxiety, bipolar, ADHD, PTSD, trauma, anger, stress, body image, relational, communication, life transition/adjustment, grief/loss, burnout, work stress, perfectionism, self-esteem, family conflict, chronic pain, neurocognitive, military/veteran-related, and college mental health concerns.
Hello! My name is Dr. Katherine (Katie) Kainer and I am a licensed psychologist based in San Antonio, TX. I am the owner of ReNew Psychological Services, PLLC, and provide virtual therapy to clients all over Texas. I work with adults who experience various difficulties, including depression, anxiety, social anxiety, bipolar, ADHD, PTSD, trauma, anger, stress, body image, relational, communication, life transition/adjustment, grief/loss, burnout, work stress, perfectionism, self-esteem, family conflict, chronic pain, neurocognitive, military/veteran-related, and college mental health concerns.
(281) 746-6732 View (281) 746-6732
Photo of Eric Frodsham, Licensed Professional Counselor in Burnet, TX
Eric Frodsham
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Elgin, TX 78621  (Online Only)
Anxiety, Relationship/Family issues, Grief, Parenting, Anger management, Self esteem, Bipolar disorder, ADHD, Abandonment, Aging Issues, Attachment Issues, Autism/Asperger, Addiction, Depression, Military, Trauma, Career Issues, Schizophrenia, PTSD, Process addiction (porn, exercise, gambling), Self-Love, TBI, Mood Disorders, Domestic Violence, Codependency.
I am licensed in Texas with 5 years of professional counseling experience. I like to get to know my clients and understand the barriers they are experiencing and the outcomes they wish to manifest in their lives. I listen carefully about their experiences and look to help find positive solutions to their different life challenges. I am open to exploring any topics without passing judgement and implementing the most person-centered techniques that will lead to positive outcomes.
Anxiety, Relationship/Family issues, Grief, Parenting, Anger management, Self esteem, Bipolar disorder, ADHD, Abandonment, Aging Issues, Attachment Issues, Autism/Asperger, Addiction, Depression, Military, Trauma, Career Issues, Schizophrenia, PTSD, Process addiction (porn, exercise, gambling), Self-Love, TBI, Mood Disorders, Domestic Violence, Codependency.
I am licensed in Texas with 5 years of professional counseling experience. I like to get to know my clients and understand the barriers they are experiencing and the outcomes they wish to manifest in their lives. I listen carefully about their experiences and look to help find positive solutions to their different life challenges. I am open to exploring any topics without passing judgement and implementing the most person-centered techniques that will lead to positive outcomes.
(512) 710-2692 View (512) 710-2692
Photo of Tanner Noguess, Licensed Professional Counselor in Burnet, TX
Tanner Noguess
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78748  (Online Only)
Meet Tanner Noguess, MS, LPC, a seasoned therapist dedicated to guiding individuals through various life stages. With extensive experience in treating diverse issues like depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and more, Tanner's primary focus is on understanding the unique needs of each individual. They approach therapy with an integrative perspective, drawing on tools from various therapeutic modalities, grounded in Positive Psychology. Tanner offers accessibility, convenience, and support all from the comfort and safety of your own home through virtual sessions.
Meet Tanner Noguess, MS, LPC, a seasoned therapist dedicated to guiding individuals through various life stages. With extensive experience in treating diverse issues like depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and more, Tanner's primary focus is on understanding the unique needs of each individual. They approach therapy with an integrative perspective, drawing on tools from various therapeutic modalities, grounded in Positive Psychology. Tanner offers accessibility, convenience, and support all from the comfort and safety of your own home through virtual sessions.
(512) 877-9147 View (512) 877-9147
Photo of Miranda M. Solis, Licensed Professional Counselor in Burnet, TX
Miranda M. Solis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78229
Other specialties include sensory processing disorders, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and personality disorders.
I graduated from UTSA in 2012 with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with minors in Sociology and Philosophy and again in 2015 with a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I worked in higher education, counseling college students for nine years. While I have a passion for helping young adults navigate their mental health, I equally enjoy working with teens, couples and families. I draw from various therapeutic styles, including CBT and Relational-Cultural Theory. I enjoy taking a person-centered approach to journey alongside my clients throughout the therapeutic process.
Other specialties include sensory processing disorders, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and personality disorders.
I graduated from UTSA in 2012 with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with minors in Sociology and Philosophy and again in 2015 with a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I worked in higher education, counseling college students for nine years. While I have a passion for helping young adults navigate their mental health, I equally enjoy working with teens, couples and families. I draw from various therapeutic styles, including CBT and Relational-Cultural Theory. I enjoy taking a person-centered approach to journey alongside my clients throughout the therapeutic process.
(210) 880-2393 View (210) 880-2393
Photo of Counselor Warden, Licensed Professional Counselor in Burnet, TX
Counselor Warden
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78704
I specialize in complex treatment-resistant issues, but I'm equally passionate about counseling clients with milder everyday struggles. I've helped clients with bipolar disorder stabilize mood swings and those with schizophrenia in conquering intense hallucinations and nightmares. I also enjoy working with creative types. Having overcome PTSD myself, I've faced the darkness, and I'm driven to help others find the light, regardless of their concerns. Together, we'll play detective, unravel the mystery of what's bothering you deep down, unearth the roots of your challenges, and create targeted interventions that resonate with you.
I specialize in complex treatment-resistant issues, but I'm equally passionate about counseling clients with milder everyday struggles. I've helped clients with bipolar disorder stabilize mood swings and those with schizophrenia in conquering intense hallucinations and nightmares. I also enjoy working with creative types. Having overcome PTSD myself, I've faced the darkness, and I'm driven to help others find the light, regardless of their concerns. Together, we'll play detective, unravel the mystery of what's bothering you deep down, unearth the roots of your challenges, and create targeted interventions that resonate with you.
(512) 627-5055 View (512) 627-5055
Photo of Dinah Dziolek, Licensed Professional Counselor in Burnet, TX
Dinah Dziolek
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S, BC-TMH, CCTP
Verified Verified
Boerne, TX 78006
Hello! I am a therapist, military spouse (recently retired) and Mom of 2. I have a passion for serving families who serve and sacrifice for our nation! For many years I lived the active duty military lifestyle. I know first-hand the pain of infertility as a military spouse and navigated fertility treatments in Military Training Facilities. I have lived through deployments and unaccompanied remote assignments as a young mom while managing home, kids, career and community service to fellow military spouses and families. I know the pain of being away from extended family, frequent moves and all the adventures of service life!
Hello! I am a therapist, military spouse (recently retired) and Mom of 2. I have a passion for serving families who serve and sacrifice for our nation! For many years I lived the active duty military lifestyle. I know first-hand the pain of infertility as a military spouse and navigated fertility treatments in Military Training Facilities. I have lived through deployments and unaccompanied remote assignments as a young mom while managing home, kids, career and community service to fellow military spouses and families. I know the pain of being away from extended family, frequent moves and all the adventures of service life!
(844) 785-0055 View (844) 785-0055
Photo of Jacqueline P Parsons, Licensed Professional Counselor in Burnet, TX
Jacqueline P Parsons
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78230
Dealing with life’s challenges? We all are, but not everyone needs a diagnosis when going through a solvable situation. You can beat the fear! Working with me, we can identify your strengths, what's frightening you and how to overcome it. Sometimes you just need to sit down with a counselor that respects and wants to work with you based on your strengths. I know how to work with people negotiating complicated times successfully,
Dealing with life’s challenges? We all are, but not everyone needs a diagnosis when going through a solvable situation. You can beat the fear! Working with me, we can identify your strengths, what's frightening you and how to overcome it. Sometimes you just need to sit down with a counselor that respects and wants to work with you based on your strengths. I know how to work with people negotiating complicated times successfully,
(210) 881-7907 View (210) 881-7907
Photo of Austin Trauma Therapy Center/ Diana Anzaldua, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Burnet, TX
Austin Trauma Therapy Center/ Diana Anzaldua
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, TCYT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78745
Austin Trauma Therapy Center understands the ranges of psychotherapeutic approaches in use today and will integrate them as necessary. Often people struggle with utilizing unhealthy, adaptive coping skills to address symptoms of depression, anxiety, or other mood disorders. We can assist you with identifying strategies that will work for you to identify and modify maladaptive patterns that no longer serve you. Austin Trauma Therapy Center remains flexible, open and non-judgmental in an effort to cater to your unique needs while ensuring a high standard of quality care. Our approach is to meet you where you are in an authentic way.
Austin Trauma Therapy Center understands the ranges of psychotherapeutic approaches in use today and will integrate them as necessary. Often people struggle with utilizing unhealthy, adaptive coping skills to address symptoms of depression, anxiety, or other mood disorders. We can assist you with identifying strategies that will work for you to identify and modify maladaptive patterns that no longer serve you. Austin Trauma Therapy Center remains flexible, open and non-judgmental in an effort to cater to your unique needs while ensuring a high standard of quality care. Our approach is to meet you where you are in an authentic way.
(512) 969-2204 View (512) 969-2204
Photo of Red Apple Therapy, Licensed Professional Counselor in Burnet, TX
Red Apple Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78701  (Online Only)
My name is Faith and I work with individuals and couples facing a range of concerns to include depression, trauma, abuse, PTSD, ADHD, relationship issues, sex related issues, sexuality, and other life issues. I will work to meet you where you are in your journey. Red Apple Therapy offers alternative therapies for those searching for a holistic and eclectic approach to counseling, including ecotherapy and mindfulness practices. Our goal is to assist you in meeting your goal by providing a safe, authentic and compassionate clinical setting with an individualized therapy experience.
My name is Faith and I work with individuals and couples facing a range of concerns to include depression, trauma, abuse, PTSD, ADHD, relationship issues, sex related issues, sexuality, and other life issues. I will work to meet you where you are in your journey. Red Apple Therapy offers alternative therapies for those searching for a holistic and eclectic approach to counseling, including ecotherapy and mindfulness practices. Our goal is to assist you in meeting your goal by providing a safe, authentic and compassionate clinical setting with an individualized therapy experience.
(512) 980-1226 View (512) 980-1226
Photo of Leonel Longoria, Licensed Professional Counselor in Burnet, TX
Leonel Longoria
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78258  (Online Only)
I have worked in various settings, across all platforms and populations and have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including: depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, addictions (alcohol, drugs, and sexual), OCD and ADHD. I also helped many people who have experienced physical and/or sexual trauma or emotional abuse. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic and rational-emotive counseling. I
I have worked in various settings, across all platforms and populations and have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including: depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, addictions (alcohol, drugs, and sexual), OCD and ADHD. I also helped many people who have experienced physical and/or sexual trauma or emotional abuse. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic and rational-emotive counseling. I
(210) 750-3252 View (210) 750-3252
Photo of Lori Griffin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Burnet, TX
Lori Griffin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Helotes, TX 78023
You are NOT broken. You are hurting and you are tired of being so tired. I think sometimes we believe that we have to FEEL confident before we can show action. My very favorite saying is " show up, even when you are scared. Show up. " Do you feel like you or your partner are wondering how you ever fell in love to begin with? Does it feel like you are silently screaming and no one hears you while you walk around with a fake smile? Does it feel like you are white knuckling it through your day and hoping no one ever discovers "the real you?" Do you remember who are you with without anxiety snapping at your heels? You are not alone.
You are NOT broken. You are hurting and you are tired of being so tired. I think sometimes we believe that we have to FEEL confident before we can show action. My very favorite saying is " show up, even when you are scared. Show up. " Do you feel like you or your partner are wondering how you ever fell in love to begin with? Does it feel like you are silently screaming and no one hears you while you walk around with a fake smile? Does it feel like you are white knuckling it through your day and hoping no one ever discovers "the real you?" Do you remember who are you with without anxiety snapping at your heels? You are not alone.
(210) 580-6227 View (210) 580-6227
Photo of Akuji Counseling, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Burnet, TX
Akuji Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, CEDS
Verified Verified
Pflugerville, TX 78660  (Online Only)
I am a licensed professional counselor with a specialty in helping those struggling with all types of disordered eating. I earned my master’s degree in psychology from Midwestern State University. My background includes working with teenagers and adults in psychiatric hospitals and state correctional institutions. In these settings, I provided individual counseling services, therapeutic crisis management, and mental health groups focused on grief and loss, stress management, dialectical behavior techniques, and eating disorders.
I am a licensed professional counselor with a specialty in helping those struggling with all types of disordered eating. I earned my master’s degree in psychology from Midwestern State University. My background includes working with teenagers and adults in psychiatric hospitals and state correctional institutions. In these settings, I provided individual counseling services, therapeutic crisis management, and mental health groups focused on grief and loss, stress management, dialectical behavior techniques, and eating disorders.
(512) 359-3796 View (512) 359-3796
Photo of Jan Ford Mustin Ph.d., Psychologist in Burnet, TX
Jan Ford Mustin Ph.d.
Psychologist, PhD, LPC-S, LMFT, LCDC, BCN
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78746
We all have times when life's challenges require us to look for hidden solutions and opportunities. It is a privilege to provide effective assistance and encouragement during those times. Blending traditional, positive, client-centered psychotherapy with leading-edge neuroscience, I offer a mind-body approach and a wide variety of therapy options. From individual, couples and family therapy to sports psychology, EMDR and EEG Neurofeedback, you can select the treatment experience right for you. Please call today for a free phone consultation and visit our web site, www.PeakInstitute.com.
We all have times when life's challenges require us to look for hidden solutions and opportunities. It is a privilege to provide effective assistance and encouragement during those times. Blending traditional, positive, client-centered psychotherapy with leading-edge neuroscience, I offer a mind-body approach and a wide variety of therapy options. From individual, couples and family therapy to sports psychology, EMDR and EEG Neurofeedback, you can select the treatment experience right for you. Please call today for a free phone consultation and visit our web site, www.PeakInstitute.com.
(512) 489-6214 View (512) 489-6214
Photo of Donna Clark Stutes, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Burnet, TX
Donna Clark Stutes, MS, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78232
I am a collaboratively oriented counselor. I believe that successful change is dependent on your enthusiastic participation in the process. I see myself as a sort of guide and someone who can offer alternative perspectives which may lead you to new ways of thinking about and acting on your circumstances. I believe that ultimately you contain the solutions to the things you bring to therapy. I will do my best to help you access those solutions and find your best possible outcome.
I am a collaboratively oriented counselor. I believe that successful change is dependent on your enthusiastic participation in the process. I see myself as a sort of guide and someone who can offer alternative perspectives which may lead you to new ways of thinking about and acting on your circumstances. I believe that ultimately you contain the solutions to the things you bring to therapy. I will do my best to help you access those solutions and find your best possible outcome.
(210) 762-5087 View (210) 762-5087
Photo of Kimberly Mizerik, Licensed Professional Counselor in Burnet, TX
Kimberly Mizerik
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waco, TX 76710
Now offering Therapy Intensive sessions which are an accelerated form of therapy that allows deeper healing in a shorter amount of time. Are stressful events and relationships making it impossible for you to relax? Are anxiety and depression making it hard to focus on the important things in your life and preventing you from making positive changes? There is hope and help available. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with 12 years of experience as a psychotherapist in private practice and in Community Counseling. I have helped patients in their recovery from depression, anxiety, unstable relationships, PTSD, OCD, and ADHD.
Now offering Therapy Intensive sessions which are an accelerated form of therapy that allows deeper healing in a shorter amount of time. Are stressful events and relationships making it impossible for you to relax? Are anxiety and depression making it hard to focus on the important things in your life and preventing you from making positive changes? There is hope and help available. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with 12 years of experience as a psychotherapist in private practice and in Community Counseling. I have helped patients in their recovery from depression, anxiety, unstable relationships, PTSD, OCD, and ADHD.
(254) 853-5079 View (254) 853-5079
Photo of Alexander Leerburger-Mahl, Licensed Professional Counselor in Burnet, TX
Alexander Leerburger-Mahl
Licensed Professional Counselor, MHS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Lake Hills, TX 78746
Do you often feel weighed down by feelings of depression, anxiety, or overthinking? If you find it challenging to advocate for yourself, come talk to me! Whether you’re seeking help for the above, or topics such as LGBTQ+ issues, lack of direction, career issues, or something else entirely, I want to help! Together, we will work on strategies that will allow you to address the root cause of said difficulty and build meaningful connections and confidence. It can be difficult and overwhelming to begin the counseling process but remember that asking for help is a sign of strength. Let's create a judgment-free, safe, and exciting sesh.
Do you often feel weighed down by feelings of depression, anxiety, or overthinking? If you find it challenging to advocate for yourself, come talk to me! Whether you’re seeking help for the above, or topics such as LGBTQ+ issues, lack of direction, career issues, or something else entirely, I want to help! Together, we will work on strategies that will allow you to address the root cause of said difficulty and build meaningful connections and confidence. It can be difficult and overwhelming to begin the counseling process but remember that asking for help is a sign of strength. Let's create a judgment-free, safe, and exciting sesh.
(512) 399-8661 View (512) 399-8661
Photo of The Well Counseling Center, Licensed Professional Counselor in Burnet, TX
The Well Counseling Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, RPT-S, NCC, LCPC, TBRI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78731
The Well is a professional mental health practice with a team of clinicians serving Texas. We sincerely believe there is hope for all who are willing to seek help, no matter what their situation. With an integrated approach, using psychological proven techniques and skills from a Christian foundation, we draw from a variety of methodologies to incorporate what is most helpful for each individual. We tailor our skills and therapeutic interventions to meet our individual client’s with love and understanding. Sascha is a advanced clinical supervising specialist for teen, child, marital, and online therapy.
The Well is a professional mental health practice with a team of clinicians serving Texas. We sincerely believe there is hope for all who are willing to seek help, no matter what their situation. With an integrated approach, using psychological proven techniques and skills from a Christian foundation, we draw from a variety of methodologies to incorporate what is most helpful for each individual. We tailor our skills and therapeutic interventions to meet our individual client’s with love and understanding. Sascha is a advanced clinical supervising specialist for teen, child, marital, and online therapy.
(469) 290-0502 View (469) 290-0502
Photo of Yvonne Emil Elizondo, Licensed Professional Counselor in Burnet, TX
Yvonne Emil Elizondo
Licensed Professional Counselor, ThD, MEd, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Round Rock, TX 78665
Healing Happens Here! My GOAL is to help you find emotional wellness & happiness! Life stressors can result in anxiety, depression, sadness leaving us overwhelmed, doubtful & using unhealthy habits & coping skills to survive. Life stressors & past trauma can be challenging; but remember, you are not alone! Given a SAFE space, appropriate coping skills & guidance which encourage self-exploration & life management you will feel better & learn to live a healthier life. Working together we can create an individualized therapeutic plan specific to your needs based on your goals, personal tendencies, beliefs & lifestyle.
Healing Happens Here! My GOAL is to help you find emotional wellness & happiness! Life stressors can result in anxiety, depression, sadness leaving us overwhelmed, doubtful & using unhealthy habits & coping skills to survive. Life stressors & past trauma can be challenging; but remember, you are not alone! Given a SAFE space, appropriate coping skills & guidance which encourage self-exploration & life management you will feel better & learn to live a healthier life. Working together we can create an individualized therapeutic plan specific to your needs based on your goals, personal tendencies, beliefs & lifestyle.
(737) 377-5126 View (737) 377-5126

See more therapy options for Burnet


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.