Photo of Vickie White, Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas
Vickie White
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Mesquite, TX 75150  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor whose goal is to empower clients with the ability to live their future with confidence. I blend cognitive behavior therapy and mindfulness to strengthen clients as they work through overwhelming life experiences that are controlling their emotions, thoughts, and feelings. I am also EMDR certified to help clients that have experienced trauma. I have skills working with clients experiencing depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar, and trauma. I enjoy working together with adults and adolescents from diverse populations to help them discover the strength they need to move forward in life.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor whose goal is to empower clients with the ability to live their future with confidence. I blend cognitive behavior therapy and mindfulness to strengthen clients as they work through overwhelming life experiences that are controlling their emotions, thoughts, and feelings. I am also EMDR certified to help clients that have experienced trauma. I have skills working with clients experiencing depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar, and trauma. I enjoy working together with adults and adolescents from diverse populations to help them discover the strength they need to move forward in life.
(214) 919-5581 View (214) 919-5581
Photo of Aleksandra Bessent, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Texas
Aleksandra Bessent
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, ECFMG-, cert, MD, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Temple, TX 76501
I specialize in serving individuals experiencing OCD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, borderline personality disorder, grief, infidelity and more.
Are you trying to cope with constant worry, intrusive thoughts, trauma triggers, sadness or anger? Would you like to improve your relationships with partner/spouse/family? Are you struggling to recover from childhood trauma or narcissistic abuse, adjust to major life changes, such as acute or chronic disease, divorce, death of a loved person, career transition? There are times in life when we need professional help to feel better and live a more fulfilling life. I am here to help you to deal with distress, grief, sense of despair, get your symptoms under control, heal from trauma and experience happiness.
I specialize in serving individuals experiencing OCD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, borderline personality disorder, grief, infidelity and more.
Are you trying to cope with constant worry, intrusive thoughts, trauma triggers, sadness or anger? Would you like to improve your relationships with partner/spouse/family? Are you struggling to recover from childhood trauma or narcissistic abuse, adjust to major life changes, such as acute or chronic disease, divorce, death of a loved person, career transition? There are times in life when we need professional help to feel better and live a more fulfilling life. I am here to help you to deal with distress, grief, sense of despair, get your symptoms under control, heal from trauma and experience happiness.
(254) 613-8558 View (254) 613-8558
Photo of Melissa Anderson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas
Melissa Anderson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CSAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pearland, TX 77581
I have worked with individuals, couples and groups, and have experience working with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, relationship issues, etc.
There are moments in each of our lives when circumstances may seem too overwhelming for us to handle them on our own. Maybe you find yourself in the midst of relationship troubles, grief over a loss, depression, anxiety, or a tough life transition. Perhaps you deal with a chronic mental illness or have a family member who does. Whether your situation needs short-term or long-term attention, counseling could be the answer for you.
I have worked with individuals, couples and groups, and have experience working with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, relationship issues, etc.
There are moments in each of our lives when circumstances may seem too overwhelming for us to handle them on our own. Maybe you find yourself in the midst of relationship troubles, grief over a loss, depression, anxiety, or a tough life transition. Perhaps you deal with a chronic mental illness or have a family member who does. Whether your situation needs short-term or long-term attention, counseling could be the answer for you.
(281) 619-8458 View (281) 619-8458
Photo of Mary A Dom, Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas
Mary A Dom
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78213  (Online Only)
I am very experienced in working with mood disorders, especially Bipolar Disorder.
Talking about your concerns can help clarify what you want and need in your life. Finding choices helps us to grow and change personally and emotionally. I am here to give you the knowledge, perspective and experience gained through working with people in therapy for over 30 years. As a licensed professional counselor with experience in providing preteen, teen, couples, and individual counseling, let me offer you a warm and accepting environment where being non-judgmental is necessary to make you feel comfortable. Please note I work by telehealth only and my hours are Sunday through Friday from 7am to 3pm.
I am very experienced in working with mood disorders, especially Bipolar Disorder.
Talking about your concerns can help clarify what you want and need in your life. Finding choices helps us to grow and change personally and emotionally. I am here to give you the knowledge, perspective and experience gained through working with people in therapy for over 30 years. As a licensed professional counselor with experience in providing preteen, teen, couples, and individual counseling, let me offer you a warm and accepting environment where being non-judgmental is necessary to make you feel comfortable. Please note I work by telehealth only and my hours are Sunday through Friday from 7am to 3pm.
(210) 978-0987 View (210) 978-0987
Photo of Christine Jeffries, Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas
Christine Jeffries
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Colleyville, TX 76034
I am an SMU counseling graduate.I have worked several years with mentally ill clients having Bipolar, Depression, Anxiety and Schizophrenia. I have also worked with at risk youth, Gifted and Talented, autism, and children going through adjustments. I use a mixture of EMDR and ACT. I believe that we have much less control over our thoughts and feelings than we would like to believe so my focus with clients is action because our behaviors are one thing that we have significant control over. If you want to feel differently, you have to behave differently, and I will help you create a plan to do just that!
I am an SMU counseling graduate.I have worked several years with mentally ill clients having Bipolar, Depression, Anxiety and Schizophrenia. I have also worked with at risk youth, Gifted and Talented, autism, and children going through adjustments. I use a mixture of EMDR and ACT. I believe that we have much less control over our thoughts and feelings than we would like to believe so my focus with clients is action because our behaviors are one thing that we have significant control over. If you want to feel differently, you have to behave differently, and I will help you create a plan to do just that!
(817) 697-2535 View (817) 697-2535
Photo of Kimberly Thomas, Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas
Kimberly Thomas
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Helotes, TX 78023  (Online Only)
I have also spent many hours working with adult and teen clients struggling with parenting/family issues, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, bipolar, anger management, and more!.
I recognize that you are the expert on you. My desire is to work collaboratively with you to enable you to reach your identified goals. If you are worried you can't afford counseling, please discuss your concerns with me. I will work with you as much as possible!
I have also spent many hours working with adult and teen clients struggling with parenting/family issues, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, bipolar, anger management, and more!.
I recognize that you are the expert on you. My desire is to work collaboratively with you to enable you to reach your identified goals. If you are worried you can't afford counseling, please discuss your concerns with me. I will work with you as much as possible!
(325) 240-5605 View (325) 240-5605
Photo of Lorena Abitante, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Texas
Lorena Abitante
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Kingwood, TX 77339
I'm experienced working with stress management, Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, anxiety, feelings of suicide, psychotic disorders/psychosis, family issues, trauma, and child abuse/neglect, including sexual abuse.
Allow me to assist you in the change process by both of us looking at your thinking &how it affects you. I feel passionate about working with those who have experienced trauma, loss, abuse/neglect, as well as those who are living with mental illness, including struggling teens & ones with onset of mental illness. I believe in empowering people to process loss, reach goals, develop self-esteem, and improve functioning in a supportive, safe environment.I have gained experience working in both an in-patient and an out-patient psychiatric hospital setting, the Children's Protective Services system, group private practice, and a prison.
I'm experienced working with stress management, Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, anxiety, feelings of suicide, psychotic disorders/psychosis, family issues, trauma, and child abuse/neglect, including sexual abuse.
Allow me to assist you in the change process by both of us looking at your thinking &how it affects you. I feel passionate about working with those who have experienced trauma, loss, abuse/neglect, as well as those who are living with mental illness, including struggling teens & ones with onset of mental illness. I believe in empowering people to process loss, reach goals, develop self-esteem, and improve functioning in a supportive, safe environment.I have gained experience working in both an in-patient and an out-patient psychiatric hospital setting, the Children's Protective Services system, group private practice, and a prison.
(281) 888-0134 View (281) 888-0134
Photo of Healing Mind Psychiatry PLLC in Texas
Healing Mind Psychiatry PLLC
PA-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75248
Now Accepting NEW Clients! Welcome to Healing Mind Psychiatry, where our goal is to offer compassionate, thorough, and individualized mental health services. We know how intimidating it might be to seek professional assistance for mental health issues. Our clinic offers a wide range of services to both adolescents and adults dealing with a variety of mental health conditions. As a result, our team of skilled mental health providers are committed to fostering a secure and welcoming environment for every client who enters our doors. From depression and anxiety, bipolar illness & ADHD, our specialists have the knowledge to help you.
Now Accepting NEW Clients! Welcome to Healing Mind Psychiatry, where our goal is to offer compassionate, thorough, and individualized mental health services. We know how intimidating it might be to seek professional assistance for mental health issues. Our clinic offers a wide range of services to both adolescents and adults dealing with a variety of mental health conditions. As a result, our team of skilled mental health providers are committed to fostering a secure and welcoming environment for every client who enters our doors. From depression and anxiety, bipolar illness & ADHD, our specialists have the knowledge to help you.
(214) 241-4684 View (214) 241-4684
Photo of Stacy Bortey, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Texas
Stacy Bortey
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPC-A
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75240
I have helped with people dealing with stress, grief, anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues , bipolar disorder and borderline disorders.
It is amazing that you have taken this first step. I trust and believe that it took a lot of courage but with you looking at this message, it is a bold and beautiful step that you have taken. Though it may be unknown to you, your mental health plays a big role in your lifestyle and making sure that yours is a healthy lifestyle includes paying attention to your mental health. You truly do have that solution within you and with my guidance you will discover that solution, your strengths and most importantly what that miracle of having the solution looks like.
I have helped with people dealing with stress, grief, anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues , bipolar disorder and borderline disorders.
It is amazing that you have taken this first step. I trust and believe that it took a lot of courage but with you looking at this message, it is a bold and beautiful step that you have taken. Though it may be unknown to you, your mental health plays a big role in your lifestyle and making sure that yours is a healthy lifestyle includes paying attention to your mental health. You truly do have that solution within you and with my guidance you will discover that solution, your strengths and most importantly what that miracle of having the solution looks like.
(469) 281-7155 View (469) 281-7155
Photo of Anne Marie Jennings, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Texas
Anne Marie Jennings
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78746
My specialties include depression, anxiety, marital counseling, parent-child relationships, families, bipolar disorder, and anger management.
I approach therapy as a partnership with my clients in which you are the ultimate decision maker and I work with you to clear away obstacles and identify opportunities. My clients have successfully overcome or managed depression, anxiety, OCD, trauma, marital stress, parent-child difficulties, domestic violence, substance abuse, bipolar disorder, and anger issues.
My specialties include depression, anxiety, marital counseling, parent-child relationships, families, bipolar disorder, and anger management.
I approach therapy as a partnership with my clients in which you are the ultimate decision maker and I work with you to clear away obstacles and identify opportunities. My clients have successfully overcome or managed depression, anxiety, OCD, trauma, marital stress, parent-child difficulties, domestic violence, substance abuse, bipolar disorder, and anger issues.
(512) 430-4524 View (512) 430-4524
Photo of Dr. Daniela Krotzer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Texas
Dr. Daniela Krotzer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, EMDR-C, IFS-C, CDBT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78746
She specializes in trauma and PTSD, grief, relationship issues, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, suicidal ideation, self-harm, depression, anxiety, and more.
The last years have been trying years for everyone. Perhaps they brought new behaviors from your partner, family member, or yourself. Maybe they reminded you of past traumas. Many have "big T" traumas like abuse or near-death experiences. We all have some "little t" traumas, like feeling rejected by others. Part of us gets stuck back to when we experienced the trauma. But you don't have to stay there! You can be free of the grip of both "big T" & "little t" traumas. These no longer have to affect you, your relationships, or many other things. Sign up today for a consultation at drdanielakrotzer.com.
She specializes in trauma and PTSD, grief, relationship issues, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, suicidal ideation, self-harm, depression, anxiety, and more.
The last years have been trying years for everyone. Perhaps they brought new behaviors from your partner, family member, or yourself. Maybe they reminded you of past traumas. Many have "big T" traumas like abuse or near-death experiences. We all have some "little t" traumas, like feeling rejected by others. Part of us gets stuck back to when we experienced the trauma. But you don't have to stay there! You can be free of the grip of both "big T" & "little t" traumas. These no longer have to affect you, your relationships, or many other things. Sign up today for a consultation at drdanielakrotzer.com.
(817) 396-7384 View (817) 396-7384
Photo of Deborah Levi Lane, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Texas
Deborah Levi Lane
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Shavano Park, TX 78249
I am noted for the treatment of anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, ADHD, autism spectrum and other mood and/or behavioral issues.
I am not your typical "one-size-fits-all" therapist. Like you, I am unique. Respect and understanding of the individual and his/her needs are necessary to reach a successful treatment outcome. My work as a psychotherapist is to find what works for you. I build on the strengths of the individual. I provide personalized therapy to discerning clients who want the ultimate therapist-patient relationship, to include convenience, privacy, and real-time support . . . tailored to their lifestyle. Other benefits of this "concierge" approach: increased availability, priority appointments, and after-hours access.
I am noted for the treatment of anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, ADHD, autism spectrum and other mood and/or behavioral issues.
I am not your typical "one-size-fits-all" therapist. Like you, I am unique. Respect and understanding of the individual and his/her needs are necessary to reach a successful treatment outcome. My work as a psychotherapist is to find what works for you. I build on the strengths of the individual. I provide personalized therapy to discerning clients who want the ultimate therapist-patient relationship, to include convenience, privacy, and real-time support . . . tailored to their lifestyle. Other benefits of this "concierge" approach: increased availability, priority appointments, and after-hours access.
(210) 934-7173 View (210) 934-7173
Photo of Yas Farrokh, Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas
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 Lisa Wallace, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Texas
Lisa Wallace
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCDC
Verified Verified
Georgetown, TX 78628  (Online Only)
I have experience working with a wide variety of populations, specializing in helping adults who struggle with depression, anxiety, bipolar, ADHD, or substance use.
Have you ever looked at your reflection and wondered who you are? Do you ever feel lost or wonder where you are headed? Confession- I have. I realized later in life that my calling was to become a therapist. Long before returning to college, I received on-the-job training through my own experiences as a mother, wife, friend, and as an individual struggling with depression and anxiety. These experiences helped prepare me for my role as a therapist. Just like my clients, I looked for a therapist to talk to, one who would listen and be able to understand where I was coming from.
I have experience working with a wide variety of populations, specializing in helping adults who struggle with depression, anxiety, bipolar, ADHD, or substance use.
Have you ever looked at your reflection and wondered who you are? Do you ever feel lost or wonder where you are headed? Confession- I have. I realized later in life that my calling was to become a therapist. Long before returning to college, I received on-the-job training through my own experiences as a mother, wife, friend, and as an individual struggling with depression and anxiety. These experiences helped prepare me for my role as a therapist. Just like my clients, I looked for a therapist to talk to, one who would listen and be able to understand where I was coming from.
(737) 214-4935 View (737) 214-4935
Photo of Deanna Sims, Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas
Deanna Sims
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75248
I enjoy working with individuals with Bipolar Disorder to help them develop a treatment plan and to provide useful education about the disorder. Accurate information is critical in developing acceptance of the disorder and fighting stigma. Regarding infidelity, I work to help the patient(s) heal from the trauma and heartbreak of infidelity. Managing anger or obsessive thoughts, learning to be vulnerable again, and developing forgiveness are important goals for the betrayed spouse, whether separating or reconciling. Rebuilding trust, adhering to total honesty (the hallmark of healing), and being behaviorally accountable are tasks that I help the straying spouse develop.
I enjoy working with individuals with Bipolar Disorder to help them develop a treatment plan and to provide useful education about the disorder. Accurate information is critical in developing acceptance of the disorder and fighting stigma. Regarding infidelity, I work to help the patient(s) heal from the trauma and heartbreak of infidelity. Managing anger or obsessive thoughts, learning to be vulnerable again, and developing forgiveness are important goals for the betrayed spouse, whether separating or reconciling. Rebuilding trust, adhering to total honesty (the hallmark of healing), and being behaviorally accountable are tasks that I help the straying spouse develop.
(972) 805-1545 View (972) 805-1545
Photo of Christina Galindo, Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas
Christina Galindo
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78259
Do you live with depression, bipolar disorder, or experiencing psychosis? Do you have a teenager that feels alone, depressed, or in a slump? Have you recently been diagnosed with a mental health condition that you do not understand or know where to turn to for resources? Have you experience trauma through a traumatic event, childhood, adolescents, or a relationship? Do you need help?
Do you live with depression, bipolar disorder, or experiencing psychosis? Do you have a teenager that feels alone, depressed, or in a slump? Have you recently been diagnosed with a mental health condition that you do not understand or know where to turn to for resources? Have you experience trauma through a traumatic event, childhood, adolescents, or a relationship? Do you need help?
(830) 283-3740 View (830) 283-3740
Photo of January Martin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Texas
January Martin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCDC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78735
Waitlist for new clients
I work well with adults coping with bipolar disorder, psychosis, depression, grief, and trauma.
I believe that people should not be limited to a label. We are so much more than problems or disorders; we are strengthened by our flaws and our most difficult experiences can transform us. I am direct, interactive, and strongly believe that people change through healing relationships. In sessions we will work together at a pace that feels right for you. We will identify and prioritize your goals, address problems that get in the way of your happiness, and collaboratively build lasting solutions. I will listen to and accept your feedback about how we are working together.
I work well with adults coping with bipolar disorder, psychosis, depression, grief, and trauma.
I believe that people should not be limited to a label. We are so much more than problems or disorders; we are strengthened by our flaws and our most difficult experiences can transform us. I am direct, interactive, and strongly believe that people change through healing relationships. In sessions we will work together at a pace that feels right for you. We will identify and prioritize your goals, address problems that get in the way of your happiness, and collaboratively build lasting solutions. I will listen to and accept your feedback about how we are working together.
(512) 948-3370 View (512) 948-3370
Photo of Geri Beard-Chaney, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Texas
Geri Beard-Chaney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sugar Land, TX 77478
Geri Beard-Chaney is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Supervisor in Texas who has been practicing since 2001. She obtained her Master's Degree in Social Work from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champagne. Her experience spans more than 30 years in Psychiatry in inpatient care as well as outpatient mental health services. Geri sees adults individually as well as families, and groups. She enjoys working with a range of behavioral health issues including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders, personality disorders, and trauma.
Geri Beard-Chaney is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Supervisor in Texas who has been practicing since 2001. She obtained her Master's Degree in Social Work from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champagne. Her experience spans more than 30 years in Psychiatry in inpatient care as well as outpatient mental health services. Geri sees adults individually as well as families, and groups. She enjoys working with a range of behavioral health issues including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders, personality disorders, and trauma.
(346) 483-3842 View (346) 483-3842
Photo of Nadia T. Hasan, Psychologist in Texas
Nadia T. Hasan
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75069  (Online Only)
Sometimes life can be challenging, and you need support from an expert to help you feel better. I can help you recover from depression, bipolar disorder, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, OCD, panic disorders, grief/ loss, trauma, low self-esteem, academic stress, social identity concerns (racial, ethnic, sexual), interpersonal issues, relationship problems, and family concerns. I also provide psychological assessments and evaluations to diagnose learning disabilities, ADHD, disability, and PTSD.
Sometimes life can be challenging, and you need support from an expert to help you feel better. I can help you recover from depression, bipolar disorder, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, OCD, panic disorders, grief/ loss, trauma, low self-esteem, academic stress, social identity concerns (racial, ethnic, sexual), interpersonal issues, relationship problems, and family concerns. I also provide psychological assessments and evaluations to diagnose learning disabilities, ADHD, disability, and PTSD.
(361) 336-0766 View (361) 336-0766
Photo of Sophia Creede, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Texas
Sophia Creede
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77002  (Online Only)
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I bring a wealth of expertise to the therapeutic space. I earned my Bachelor's in Psychology from the esteemed University of Texas at Austin and furthered my education with a Master's in Social Work from the University of Houston. My professional journey has encompassed working with diverse populations facing a spectrum of challenges, including individuals navigating trauma, chronic health conditions, LGBTIQA+, PTSD, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, and the complexities of reintegration after extended prison sentences.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I bring a wealth of expertise to the therapeutic space. I earned my Bachelor's in Psychology from the esteemed University of Texas at Austin and furthered my education with a Master's in Social Work from the University of Houston. My professional journey has encompassed working with diverse populations facing a spectrum of challenges, including individuals navigating trauma, chronic health conditions, LGBTIQA+, PTSD, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, and the complexities of reintegration after extended prison sentences.
(832) 346-7386 View (832) 346-7386
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.