Photo of Dria Brantley Brady, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dria Brantley Brady
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salado, TX 76571  (Online Only)
Finding a counselor you trust can be challenging. My goal as a therapist is to help clients thrive: to gain clearer self-insight and discover how to gain their fullest potential, wellness, and satisfaction in their lives. I am dedicated to providing evidence-based, empathetic, and individualized counseling that empowers clients with the tools and skills they need to become their best, most balanced selves. In these uncertain and stressful times, self-care and mental wellness are more important than ever.
Finding a counselor you trust can be challenging. My goal as a therapist is to help clients thrive: to gain clearer self-insight and discover how to gain their fullest potential, wellness, and satisfaction in their lives. I am dedicated to providing evidence-based, empathetic, and individualized counseling that empowers clients with the tools and skills they need to become their best, most balanced selves. In these uncertain and stressful times, self-care and mental wellness are more important than ever.
(254) 791-5781 View (254) 791-5781

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Roslyn A Brown, MA, LPC, CCTP, DBT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Roslyn A Brown
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCTP, DBT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Belton, TX 76513
Waitlist for new clients
Are relationship challenges, parenting stress, bullying, anxiety, Military life issues, depression, work related problems, unhealthy coping skills, lack of value in yourself, boundaries difficulties, social awkwardness, and angry outbursts interrupting your life. Did you know that receiving help is just a phone call away. Are you Active Duty Military or a family member of an active duty Soldier. Did you know that there is non-medical counseling through Military One Source? Seeking counseling through Military One Source is free and confidential it allow soldiers and family members to seek treatment outside of your installation.
Are relationship challenges, parenting stress, bullying, anxiety, Military life issues, depression, work related problems, unhealthy coping skills, lack of value in yourself, boundaries difficulties, social awkwardness, and angry outbursts interrupting your life. Did you know that receiving help is just a phone call away. Are you Active Duty Military or a family member of an active duty Soldier. Did you know that there is non-medical counseling through Military One Source? Seeking counseling through Military One Source is free and confidential it allow soldiers and family members to seek treatment outside of your installation.
(254) 845-7704 View (254) 845-7704
Lusan Clark-Ladd
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
Belton, TX 76513
Experienced in working with children, teens, adults, families, and couples. Enjoys serving the needs of those individuals who are struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, any behavioral disorders, dual diagnoses, and any stress related issues. Will work with your individual needs. Setting short term and long term goals. Work to establish healthy skills to create a balanced and harmonious lifestyle.
Experienced in working with children, teens, adults, families, and couples. Enjoys serving the needs of those individuals who are struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, any behavioral disorders, dual diagnoses, and any stress related issues. Will work with your individual needs. Setting short term and long term goals. Work to establish healthy skills to create a balanced and harmonious lifestyle.
(254) 247-3280 View (254) 247-3280
Photo of Lyna J Zbranek, MA, LPC-A
Lyna J Zbranek
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Belton, TX 76513
Choosing counseling is the first step in your journey to healing. I work with adolescents, women, and men who struggle with a variety of challenges such as Anxiety, Depression, Coping Skills, Self-Esteem, Communication Issues, Grief, Parenting, Self-Harm, Suicidal Ideation, Trauma, and Situational Stressors. I believe counseling is a safe and judgment-free space that allows for awareness and healing to be cultivated.
Choosing counseling is the first step in your journey to healing. I work with adolescents, women, and men who struggle with a variety of challenges such as Anxiety, Depression, Coping Skills, Self-Esteem, Communication Issues, Grief, Parenting, Self-Harm, Suicidal Ideation, Trauma, and Situational Stressors. I believe counseling is a safe and judgment-free space that allows for awareness and healing to be cultivated.
(254) 978-7260 View (254) 978-7260
Photo of Natalie deJarnette, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Natalie deJarnette
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Belton, TX 76513  (Online Only)
I am a firm believer that the client is the expert when it comes to their life and I am just here as support to help them work through their challenges. I mostly work with adult clients struggling with mood disorders, psychotic disorders, trauma, or those in need of stress management skills. I believe that every client is different and we will work together to create a treatment plan that works best for your goals and needs.
I am a firm believer that the client is the expert when it comes to their life and I am just here as support to help them work through their challenges. I mostly work with adult clients struggling with mood disorders, psychotic disorders, trauma, or those in need of stress management skills. I believe that every client is different and we will work together to create a treatment plan that works best for your goals and needs.
(254) 294-2355 View (254) 294-2355
Photo of Stacy Canfield Supervised By Dr. Nidal Pascoe, MA, NCC;, PsyD, LPC-S, NCC
Stacy Canfield Supervised By Dr. Nidal Pascoe
LPC-Associate, MA, NCC;, PsyD, LPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
Belton, TX 76513
Navigating through life's challenges can be difficult. At times, it can seem absolutely hopeless! Seeking help is not a sign of weakness, nor is it selfish! It is a sign of selfless strength! Finding your right counselor is imperative for mental health well-being. As your counselor, I will provide a safe space where your concerns will be addressed. I will walk alongside you in your journey and exhibit empathy, unconditional positive regard and active listening in a non-judgmental manner. I will also challenge you at times to push you beyond your comfort level because that is where the growth happens!
Navigating through life's challenges can be difficult. At times, it can seem absolutely hopeless! Seeking help is not a sign of weakness, nor is it selfish! It is a sign of selfless strength! Finding your right counselor is imperative for mental health well-being. As your counselor, I will provide a safe space where your concerns will be addressed. I will walk alongside you in your journey and exhibit empathy, unconditional positive regard and active listening in a non-judgmental manner. I will also challenge you at times to push you beyond your comfort level because that is where the growth happens!
(254) 348-3307 View (254) 348-3307
Photo of Emily Ellis, MA, LPC, LMFT, RPT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Emily Ellis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMFT, RPT
Verified Verified
Belton, TX 76513
Not accepting new clients
I specialize in working with children/adolescents with a variety of presenting symptoms. I understand that children must be counseled in the context of their family system and incorporate family therapy in my treatment processes. I have experience working with sexually and physically abused children, adolescents, and adults and those struggling with trauma reminders. I also work with individuals struggling with depression or behavior changes following a change in relationship dynamics such as divorce or military deployment. I offer sessions with and without my therapy dog-in-training, a sweet Bernedoodle named Sullivan.
I specialize in working with children/adolescents with a variety of presenting symptoms. I understand that children must be counseled in the context of their family system and incorporate family therapy in my treatment processes. I have experience working with sexually and physically abused children, adolescents, and adults and those struggling with trauma reminders. I also work with individuals struggling with depression or behavior changes following a change in relationship dynamics such as divorce or military deployment. I offer sessions with and without my therapy dog-in-training, a sweet Bernedoodle named Sullivan.
(254) 870-4363 View (254) 870-4363

Online Therapists

Photo of Dr. Stephanie Torres Rojas, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Stephanie Torres Rojas
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78704  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Her focus includes anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, grief, anger management, marital and family conflict, divorce, adjustment disorder, parenting skills, spirituality, coping skills, life transitions, acculturation, LGBTQ, existential concerns, bipolar disorders, racial minorities, chronic pain, and chronic illness.
Telehealth only. Dr. Stephanie Torres is a bilingual (Spanish) licensed psychologist who provides individual, couple, family, and group therapy. Her approach is inclusive, synergetic, and trauma-informed. She strives to create a safe, warm, and non-judgmental environment where everyone is treated with respect, uniqueness, egalitarianism, and anti-racism. She aims to help clients promote personal growth, overcome challenges, transitions, and difficulties in life, and facilitate the emotional and healing process.
Her focus includes anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, grief, anger management, marital and family conflict, divorce, adjustment disorder, parenting skills, spirituality, coping skills, life transitions, acculturation, LGBTQ, existential concerns, bipolar disorders, racial minorities, chronic pain, and chronic illness.
Telehealth only. Dr. Stephanie Torres is a bilingual (Spanish) licensed psychologist who provides individual, couple, family, and group therapy. Her approach is inclusive, synergetic, and trauma-informed. She strives to create a safe, warm, and non-judgmental environment where everyone is treated with respect, uniqueness, egalitarianism, and anti-racism. She aims to help clients promote personal growth, overcome challenges, transitions, and difficulties in life, and facilitate the emotional and healing process.
(210) 934-4597 View (210) 934-4597
Photo of Nancy E. Giraldo, LCSW, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nancy E. Giraldo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cleburne, TX 76033
Have you been struggling with anxiety, depression, or bipolar disorder? Have you been taking medications, but seem to still struggle to cope? I help people who experience anxiety, depression, and/or bipolar disorder find relief, feel less anxious, gain coping skills, and understanding of what they are experiencing.
I am an experienced therapist working with children, adolescents, families, couples and individual adults on a variety of issues. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, and PREPARE/ENRICH facilitator.
Have you been struggling with anxiety, depression, or bipolar disorder? Have you been taking medications, but seem to still struggle to cope? I help people who experience anxiety, depression, and/or bipolar disorder find relief, feel less anxious, gain coping skills, and understanding of what they are experiencing.
I am an experienced therapist working with children, adolescents, families, couples and individual adults on a variety of issues. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, and PREPARE/ENRICH facilitator.
(817) 997-4538 View (817) 997-4538
Photo of Audry Steele, MA,  LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Audry Steele
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78746
My approach combines an interpersonal/relational perspective with over 20 years of experience to address areas of life such as anxiety, stress, depression, relationship issues, codependency, narcissism, parenting problems, grief, postpartum changes, self-esteem issues, bipolar symptoms, anger, and trauma.
Welcome, I currently have a couple of openings for new clients and scheduling a phone consultation is a good way for us to determine if I can be helpful. I specialize in depth-oriented therapy for adults facing personal, professional, and family challenges. I also work with individuals who generally feel resilient and successful but are navigating significant or acute levels of stress.
My approach combines an interpersonal/relational perspective with over 20 years of experience to address areas of life such as anxiety, stress, depression, relationship issues, codependency, narcissism, parenting problems, grief, postpartum changes, self-esteem issues, bipolar symptoms, anger, and trauma.
Welcome, I currently have a couple of openings for new clients and scheduling a phone consultation is a good way for us to determine if I can be helpful. I specialize in depth-oriented therapy for adults facing personal, professional, and family challenges. I also work with individuals who generally feel resilient and successful but are navigating significant or acute levels of stress.
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Photo of Audry Steele, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Audry Steele
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78704
My approach combines an interpersonal/relational perspective with over 20 years of experience to address areas of life such as anxiety, stress, depression, relationship issues, codependency, narcissism, parenting problems, grief, postpartum changes, self-esteem issues, bipolar symptoms, anger, and trauma.
Welcome, I currently have a couple of openings for new clients and scheduling a phone consultation is a good way for us to determine if I can be helpful. I specialize in depth-oriented therapy for adults facing personal, professional, and family challenges. I also work with individuals who generally feel resilient and successful but are navigating significant or acute levels of stress.
My approach combines an interpersonal/relational perspective with over 20 years of experience to address areas of life such as anxiety, stress, depression, relationship issues, codependency, narcissism, parenting problems, grief, postpartum changes, self-esteem issues, bipolar symptoms, anger, and trauma.
Welcome, I currently have a couple of openings for new clients and scheduling a phone consultation is a good way for us to determine if I can be helpful. I specialize in depth-oriented therapy for adults facing personal, professional, and family challenges. I also work with individuals who generally feel resilient and successful but are navigating significant or acute levels of stress.
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Photo of Renese M Johnson, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Renese M Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Pflugerville, TX 78660  (Online Only)
I have worked with victims of abuse and assault as well as mental health issues such as depression and bipolar disorder.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with extensive experience in working with a diverse group of individuals. My approach is a person-centered eclectic approach that fosters self-acceptance and empowerment. I frequently use CBT and solution focus techniques when assisting in facilitating healthy change. Therapy is about you, your freedom and the healing that occurs through self-exploration, understanding, finding meaning, and deepening one's insight. My role is to help you begin to think, feel, and understand yourself more deeply, empowering lasting change.
I have worked with victims of abuse and assault as well as mental health issues such as depression and bipolar disorder.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with extensive experience in working with a diverse group of individuals. My approach is a person-centered eclectic approach that fosters self-acceptance and empowerment. I frequently use CBT and solution focus techniques when assisting in facilitating healthy change. Therapy is about you, your freedom and the healing that occurs through self-exploration, understanding, finding meaning, and deepening one's insight. My role is to help you begin to think, feel, and understand yourself more deeply, empowering lasting change.
(512) 559-1636 View (512) 559-1636
Photo of Caitlin Coyner, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Caitlin Coyner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78759  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over a decade of experience working with Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, Self Esteem problems, Domestic and Sexual Abuse, Schizophrenia, and other major mental health challenges. I work mostly with adults and am particularly passionate about working with Geriatric/Elderly populations and those in the LGBTQ communities. My primary types of therapy are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused, and Strengths-Based, although I pull from many areas depending on my client’s needs.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over a decade of experience working with Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, Self Esteem problems, Domestic and Sexual Abuse, Schizophrenia, and other major mental health challenges. I work mostly with adults and am particularly passionate about working with Geriatric/Elderly populations and those in the LGBTQ communities. My primary types of therapy are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused, and Strengths-Based, although I pull from many areas depending on my client’s needs.
(512) 714-3403 View (512) 714-3403
Photo of Cara Haynie-Peña, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cara Haynie-Peña
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Georgetown, TX 78628  (Online Only)
My clinical focus has been primarily with clients struggling with depression, anxiety, stress, relationship issues, women's issues, post traumatic stress and severe and persistent mental illness disorders including bipolar disorders, the schizophrenic disorders and personality disorders.
Hi, my name is Cara. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Texas, certified in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, with more than 25 years experience providing individual therapy. I earned a BA degree in psychology and an MS degree in counseling and educational psychology, from Texas A & M University-Corpus Christi, in 1997. I have had a private practice since 2005, while also working in psychiatric hospitals, outpatient facilities and correctional facilities. I am able to see clients, all over the State of Texas, through a HIPAA compliant confidential video link, a very convenient way to get therapy.
My clinical focus has been primarily with clients struggling with depression, anxiety, stress, relationship issues, women's issues, post traumatic stress and severe and persistent mental illness disorders including bipolar disorders, the schizophrenic disorders and personality disorders.
Hi, my name is Cara. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Texas, certified in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, with more than 25 years experience providing individual therapy. I earned a BA degree in psychology and an MS degree in counseling and educational psychology, from Texas A & M University-Corpus Christi, in 1997. I have had a private practice since 2005, while also working in psychiatric hospitals, outpatient facilities and correctional facilities. I am able to see clients, all over the State of Texas, through a HIPAA compliant confidential video link, a very convenient way to get therapy.
(361) 733-3494 View (361) 733-3494
Photo of Maggien Nelson - Maghaven Therapy LLC, MEd, LPC-A
Maghaven Therapy LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MEd, LPC-A
Verified Verified
San Marcos, TX 78666
I specialize in anxiety, depression, bipolar, and schizophrenia/schizoaffective disorders while also being trauma informed.
Experience affordable therapy at $75 per session ($10 off for college students). Evening & weekend availability until full. Response in 24 hours guaranteed. Check my availability on my weblink to book now. I want to share your moments, learn your perspective, sort the details, and walk through your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Sessions are designed to facilitate healing through evidence based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Through CBT and Transactional Analysis- we will explore avenues of self-discovery and enhance social, physical, and emotional well-being.
I specialize in anxiety, depression, bipolar, and schizophrenia/schizoaffective disorders while also being trauma informed.
Experience affordable therapy at $75 per session ($10 off for college students). Evening & weekend availability until full. Response in 24 hours guaranteed. Check my availability on my weblink to book now. I want to share your moments, learn your perspective, sort the details, and walk through your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Sessions are designed to facilitate healing through evidence based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Through CBT and Transactional Analysis- we will explore avenues of self-discovery and enhance social, physical, and emotional well-being.
(512) 883-8356 View (512) 883-8356
Photo of Stacey Lavoro Rexrode, PhD, Psychologist
Stacey Lavoro Rexrode
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Cedar Park, TX 78613  (Online Only)
I offer individual and group psychotherapy, psychological assessments, and tele-psychology interventions for trauma (PTSD), mood disorders (Depression, Bipolar Disorder), anxiety disorders (OCD, Social phobia, Panic Disorder), anger management and self-esteem programs, programs for Insomnia and sleep disorders, and parenting help.
I take pride in my ability to relate to a large population, and I enjoy working with clients 12 years of age and up. My clients over the years have had: depression, anxiety disorders, adjustment difficulty, as well as teenagers with a variety of school, peer, family, and self-esteem issues. I work best with clients who are motivated for change, but also understand that teenagers often come to therapy at the urging of parents and may be resistant at first. I welcome women's issues, veteran's issues, LGBTQ issues, those who are just "stuck", going through a life transition or folks who have been in and out of therapy for years.
I offer individual and group psychotherapy, psychological assessments, and tele-psychology interventions for trauma (PTSD), mood disorders (Depression, Bipolar Disorder), anxiety disorders (OCD, Social phobia, Panic Disorder), anger management and self-esteem programs, programs for Insomnia and sleep disorders, and parenting help.
I take pride in my ability to relate to a large population, and I enjoy working with clients 12 years of age and up. My clients over the years have had: depression, anxiety disorders, adjustment difficulty, as well as teenagers with a variety of school, peer, family, and self-esteem issues. I work best with clients who are motivated for change, but also understand that teenagers often come to therapy at the urging of parents and may be resistant at first. I welcome women's issues, veteran's issues, LGBTQ issues, those who are just "stuck", going through a life transition or folks who have been in and out of therapy for years.
(512) 886-5530 View (512) 886-5530
Photo of Tabitha Corbin - The Center in Waco, MSSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
The Center in Waco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Waco, TX 76708
The Center provides comprehensive and compassionate mental health care for individuals of all ages. Our team in Waco specializes in working with children, teens, and adults, and we are dedicated to helping our clients improve their overall well-being. Whether you are dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, or other mental health issues, we are here to support you on your journey towards healing and growth. Our evidence-based therapy approaches are tailored to meet your unique needs and goals, and we offer a safe and supportive environment to help you find your way through the difficulties that life may bring.
The Center provides comprehensive and compassionate mental health care for individuals of all ages. Our team in Waco specializes in working with children, teens, and adults, and we are dedicated to helping our clients improve their overall well-being. Whether you are dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, or other mental health issues, we are here to support you on your journey towards healing and growth. Our evidence-based therapy approaches are tailored to meet your unique needs and goals, and we offer a safe and supportive environment to help you find your way through the difficulties that life may bring.
(254) 271-1563 View (254) 271-1563
Dorrie Christman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Killeen, TX 76549  (Online Only)
Dorrie Christman LICSW has been a Clinical Social Worker for over 30 years. She graduated with her MSW from Adelphi University in NY. She went on to become the Director of Counseling Services at Adelphi University. Later, she held the role of Clinician and Clinical Supervisor at Westchester Mental Health Clinic. She and her family moved to Massachusetts where she became Clinical Supervisor at The Child Guidance clinic in Springfield Ma. She then became the Director of The Children's Behavioral Health Initiative in Westfield Ma. Dorrie has been an avid Yoga practitioner since her college days.
Dorrie Christman LICSW has been a Clinical Social Worker for over 30 years. She graduated with her MSW from Adelphi University in NY. She went on to become the Director of Counseling Services at Adelphi University. Later, she held the role of Clinician and Clinical Supervisor at Westchester Mental Health Clinic. She and her family moved to Massachusetts where she became Clinical Supervisor at The Child Guidance clinic in Springfield Ma. She then became the Director of The Children's Behavioral Health Initiative in Westfield Ma. Dorrie has been an avid Yoga practitioner since her college days.
(512) 642-5486 View (512) 642-5486
Photo of Kristalyn (Kris) Allison, MSW, LCSW-S, RPT-S, CATP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristalyn (Kris) Allison
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-S, RPT-S, CATP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New Braunfels, TX 78130
I work with a wide range of clients and concerns. Anxiety, depression, past trauma, relationship struggles, and behavior difficulties in teens and children are among a few of the common issues I treat. I have several years of experience with play therapy as well as therapy with adults and teens. I see each client and their experiences as unique to them with their own needs and strengths. I am very open minded and non-judgmental and really do care about each one of my clients. I consider the relationship I have with my clients to be central their success.
I work with a wide range of clients and concerns. Anxiety, depression, past trauma, relationship struggles, and behavior difficulties in teens and children are among a few of the common issues I treat. I have several years of experience with play therapy as well as therapy with adults and teens. I see each client and their experiences as unique to them with their own needs and strengths. I am very open minded and non-judgmental and really do care about each one of my clients. I consider the relationship I have with my clients to be central their success.
(830) 620-1175 View (830) 620-1175
Photo of Amanda Ibanez - Amanda Ibanez Counseling , LCSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amanda Ibanez Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Waco, TX 76701
I enjoy walking alongside individuals in order to help them learn more about themselves, their mental health, and ways to build skills that they can utilize now and in the future. I enjoy working with teens, young adults, and older adults. I have a passion for advocacy and education, specifically surrounding the under-diagnosed and often misdiagnosis of ADHD in those who identify as female.
I enjoy walking alongside individuals in order to help them learn more about themselves, their mental health, and ways to build skills that they can utilize now and in the future. I enjoy working with teens, young adults, and older adults. I have a passion for advocacy and education, specifically surrounding the under-diagnosed and often misdiagnosis of ADHD in those who identify as female.
(254) 414-0908 View (254) 414-0908
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.