Therapists in Watauga County, NC
![Photo of Bob Hill, PhD, ABPP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c7438c9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I rely on evidenced based interventions, often using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) or Interpersonal Psychotherapy to address depression, anxiety, sleep problems, low self-esteem, social isolation, PTSD, obsessive compulsive disorder, and to manage Bipolar Disorder. I also work with students who are struggling emotionally with the goal of succeeding with school. I also work with older adults who are seeking to address distress, grief, transitions, relationship problems, and chronic health challenges. I provide Psychological Evaluations, ADHD evaluations, court assessments and required Fitness for Practice Evaluations.
I rely on evidenced based interventions, often using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) or Interpersonal Psychotherapy to address depression, anxiety, sleep problems, low self-esteem, social isolation, PTSD, obsessive compulsive disorder, and to manage Bipolar Disorder. I also work with students who are struggling emotionally with the goal of succeeding with school. I also work with older adults who are seeking to address distress, grief, transitions, relationship problems, and chronic health challenges. I provide Psychological Evaluations, ADHD evaluations, court assessments and required Fitness for Practice Evaluations.
![Photo of Corina J Relyea, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fb3cb915-9862-49bf-a550-99aa559f8bcb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Corina J Relyea
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Boone, NC 28608 (Online Only)
Hi there! If you are someone who needs support managing the difficulties that come with bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, trauma and anxiety disorders, you are in the right place. Do you need help with emotional regulation, distress tolerance, interpersonal relationship conflicts and healing from trauma? In addition to helping you with these things, I can encourage you to develop your self worth and confidence by using your own personal strengths and wisdom that are within you.
Hi there! If you are someone who needs support managing the difficulties that come with bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, trauma and anxiety disorders, you are in the right place. Do you need help with emotional regulation, distress tolerance, interpersonal relationship conflicts and healing from trauma? In addition to helping you with these things, I can encourage you to develop your self worth and confidence by using your own personal strengths and wisdom that are within you.
![Photo of Lucyna Sonek, MPsych, MA, LPC, LCAS, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4037df2c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lucyna Sonek
Licensed Professional Counselor, MPsych, MA, LPC, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boone, NC 28607 (Online Only)
I specialize in treating emotional dysfunctions, addictions, ADHD, relational problems, gender issues as well as the challenges related to chronic illness/pain including depression, bipolar, anxiety, social phobia, OCD, behavioral compulsions, self-harming, low self esteem, anger, domestic violence, parenting, sexual issues, low motivation, online addiction, gambling, substance abuse, smoking.
I strive to assist distressed individuals in regulating emotions, improving mood, cultivating positive thinking, changing unproductive behaviors, and in creating wellness, life satisfaction, and self-acceptance. By exploring and identifying unique, personal thinking patterns, challenges, needs, and strengths we work in therapy to promote the meaning in life, responsibility, and the pursuit of genuineness and the best in self, life and relationships. My approach is compassionate, backed by extensive training and I have over 30 years of experience in education, community service, and psychotherapy with children, students, adults, couples, families, and groups.
I specialize in treating emotional dysfunctions, addictions, ADHD, relational problems, gender issues as well as the challenges related to chronic illness/pain including depression, bipolar, anxiety, social phobia, OCD, behavioral compulsions, self-harming, low self esteem, anger, domestic violence, parenting, sexual issues, low motivation, online addiction, gambling, substance abuse, smoking.
I strive to assist distressed individuals in regulating emotions, improving mood, cultivating positive thinking, changing unproductive behaviors, and in creating wellness, life satisfaction, and self-acceptance. By exploring and identifying unique, personal thinking patterns, challenges, needs, and strengths we work in therapy to promote the meaning in life, responsibility, and the pursuit of genuineness and the best in self, life and relationships. My approach is compassionate, backed by extensive training and I have over 30 years of experience in education, community service, and psychotherapy with children, students, adults, couples, families, and groups.
![Photo of Stephanie Freeman, MSW, LCSW, LCAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1c438ab9-f404-4ae3-9514-30aec6dc7eef/3/320x400.jpeg)
Stephanie Freeman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
Boone, NC 28608 (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist licensed in North Carolina with over 9 years of experience. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and substance use disorders. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My counseling style is warm and compassionate. I believe in treating anyone with respect. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, dialectical behavioral therapy and motivational interviewing. I am also trained and offer EMDR.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist licensed in North Carolina with over 9 years of experience. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and substance use disorders. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My counseling style is warm and compassionate. I believe in treating anyone with respect. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, dialectical behavioral therapy and motivational interviewing. I am also trained and offer EMDR.
![Photo of Byalinah Shakir-Burgess - Limitless Counseling PLLC, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/103ecae2-4c9d-4a44-9cfc-ba83e4c1de98/2/320x400.jpeg)
Limitless Counseling PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Boone, NC 28608 (Online Only)
•Grief •Anxiety •Bipolar •Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) •Depression • PTSD/ Trauma •Family / Parenting Therapy •Parent/Child Concerns •Pain Disorder •Phobia •Psychosis •PTSD.
I have over 20 years of experience in mental health. I am trained in EMDR, Hypnotherapy and CBT. I enjoy using humor to ease tension and lighten the mood, as I build rapport and help people feel supported. When working with clients, I help them identify natural support systems, set healthy boundaries, develop coping skills, gain work/life balance and process trauma. I have a holistic collaborative approach to care focusing on building resiliency using active listening, empathy and unconditional positive regard.
•Grief •Anxiety •Bipolar •Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) •Depression • PTSD/ Trauma •Family / Parenting Therapy •Parent/Child Concerns •Pain Disorder •Phobia •Psychosis •PTSD.
I have over 20 years of experience in mental health. I am trained in EMDR, Hypnotherapy and CBT. I enjoy using humor to ease tension and lighten the mood, as I build rapport and help people feel supported. When working with clients, I help them identify natural support systems, set healthy boundaries, develop coping skills, gain work/life balance and process trauma. I have a holistic collaborative approach to care focusing on building resiliency using active listening, empathy and unconditional positive regard.
![Photo of Craig B McKinney, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4e1088fe-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
***NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS**** I am a licensed clinical social worker with 20 years in the field with experience treating a wide range of psychological issues. I have experience working with people of all ages including college students . I enjoy helping those who are experiencing anxiety, depression, and trauma. Additionally, I have enjoyed working with people experiencing the more severe symptoms of mental health so that they may live a more stable and fulfilling life. I am located in Boone NC but can offer Telehealth services to those in need anywhere in North Carolina
***NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS**** I am a licensed clinical social worker with 20 years in the field with experience treating a wide range of psychological issues. I have experience working with people of all ages including college students . I enjoy helping those who are experiencing anxiety, depression, and trauma. Additionally, I have enjoyed working with people experiencing the more severe symptoms of mental health so that they may live a more stable and fulfilling life. I am located in Boone NC but can offer Telehealth services to those in need anywhere in North Carolina
![Photo of Sue Vannoy, MA, LMFT, LCAS, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52836402-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sue Vannoy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LCAS
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Boone, NC 28607
Waitlist for new clients
I work with with students, adults, couples, and families looking to change the things that aren't working by identifying the patterns that are creating problems in your life. I believe we all possess the ability to change our circumstances. But life happens and sometimes we can get so tangled up in our circumstances that we can't find the way out and need a little extra guidance.
I work with with students, adults, couples, and families looking to change the things that aren't working by identifying the patterns that are creating problems in your life. I believe we all possess the ability to change our circumstances. But life happens and sometimes we can get so tangled up in our circumstances that we can't find the way out and need a little extra guidance.
![Photo of Andrea M Marsh - Mountain Lotus Therapy Services, LPC, LCAS, CSI, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50c22064-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mountain Lotus Therapy Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCAS, CSI
Verified Verified
Boone, NC 28607
My professional experience has been working with adolescents, college students, adults, working on various issues, and wanting someone to help them in the journey. No one lives life without going through something that makes them question whether they can work through it on their own. This is the very place God has for us to come to him and his strength. I have personally experienced a few of these, and have been given a calling for helping others in theirs. My practice aims to shine light on the purpose we have on this earth, and walking with you to uncover the roots of why you struggle.
My professional experience has been working with adolescents, college students, adults, working on various issues, and wanting someone to help them in the journey. No one lives life without going through something that makes them question whether they can work through it on their own. This is the very place God has for us to come to him and his strength. I have personally experienced a few of these, and have been given a calling for helping others in theirs. My practice aims to shine light on the purpose we have on this earth, and walking with you to uncover the roots of why you struggle.
![Photo of Peter A Paglen, MA, NCC, LCMHCQS, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ca4de11-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Peter A Paglen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LCMHCQS
Verified Verified
Boone, NC 28607
Waitlist for new clients
Do you have something on your mind? There are times when we all have thoughts running through our minds. Thoughts related to family, friends, relationships, school, love, spirituality, money, work, or happiness. Sometimes they are memories from your past that you're unable to let go. Maybe you can't sleep, maybe you can't eat. Maybe you have lost your purpose, who you are, what you're doing or why. It could be big, or just a small thing you want to let go. These situations can slow you down and pull your life to a stop.
Do you have something on your mind? There are times when we all have thoughts running through our minds. Thoughts related to family, friends, relationships, school, love, spirituality, money, work, or happiness. Sometimes they are memories from your past that you're unable to let go. Maybe you can't sleep, maybe you can't eat. Maybe you have lost your purpose, who you are, what you're doing or why. It could be big, or just a small thing you want to let go. These situations can slow you down and pull your life to a stop.
![Photo of Nancy S Richard, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3da9e49c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am committed to enhancing the emotional and spiritual growth of people, individually and in relationships. The purpose of my counseling is to help people overcome the hindrances that keep them from reaching their potential to be fully loving and responsible - towards themselves, in relationship to other people, and in their spiritual journey.
I am committed to enhancing the emotional and spiritual growth of people, individually and in relationships. The purpose of my counseling is to help people overcome the hindrances that keep them from reaching their potential to be fully loving and responsible - towards themselves, in relationship to other people, and in their spiritual journey.
![Photo of Patti Stapleton Bock, MSW, LCSW, LCAS, TF-CBT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cd2d00c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/7/320x400.jpeg)
Patti Stapleton Bock
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS, TF-CBT
Verified Verified
Boone, NC 28607 (Online Only)
I invite you to utilize my over 30 years of mental health/addictions education and experience, empowering you with highly effective and enduring therapy, resolving long term and recent issues that block your happiness and success. Adults, youths, couples and whole families are carefully taught needed skills and facilitated actual healing processes, step by step, to remedy thought distortions, repressed feelings and dysfunctional behaviors and attitudes that impair your relationships, socialization, work or school success. Treatment is customized in consideration of individual schedules, preferences, strengths, obstacles and goals for lasting growth and change. Christian counseling is available upon request.
I invite you to utilize my over 30 years of mental health/addictions education and experience, empowering you with highly effective and enduring therapy, resolving long term and recent issues that block your happiness and success. Adults, youths, couples and whole families are carefully taught needed skills and facilitated actual healing processes, step by step, to remedy thought distortions, repressed feelings and dysfunctional behaviors and attitudes that impair your relationships, socialization, work or school success. Treatment is customized in consideration of individual schedules, preferences, strengths, obstacles and goals for lasting growth and change. Christian counseling is available upon request.
![Photo of J. P. Pressly - Pressly Counseling, PLLC, LCMHC, LCAS](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1daf56b8-07cf-48ca-8cbe-55209991c541/2/320x400.jpeg)
Pressly Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
Boone, NC 28607
I assist individuals, couples, and families with a wide array of challenges across the life span. These difficulties include family of origin, attachment, and relational issues. For some clients, goals may include: reducing anxiety, learning to thrive through depression, or healing from grief. Everyone’s situation is unique and we all have had experiences at one point or another in which we needed help or direction.
I assist individuals, couples, and families with a wide array of challenges across the life span. These difficulties include family of origin, attachment, and relational issues. For some clients, goals may include: reducing anxiety, learning to thrive through depression, or healing from grief. Everyone’s situation is unique and we all have had experiences at one point or another in which we needed help or direction.
![Photo of Dwane Wynne, MEd, LCMHCS](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d40b6c9e-c766-4067-a988-5d33c2e85baf/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dwane Wynne
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, MEd, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
Boone, NC 28607
I am a North Carolina Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (license #S3106) with more than 30 years of training and experience working with adults and adolescents in the fields of mental health, employee assistance, vocational and psychosocial rehabilitation, and workplace training and consultation. I have extensive experience working with medical, psychological/emotional, substance abuse/chemical dependency, relationship, and career issues. I have been in private practice for 20 years. I am also a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor.
I am a North Carolina Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (license #S3106) with more than 30 years of training and experience working with adults and adolescents in the fields of mental health, employee assistance, vocational and psychosocial rehabilitation, and workplace training and consultation. I have extensive experience working with medical, psychological/emotional, substance abuse/chemical dependency, relationship, and career issues. I have been in private practice for 20 years. I am also a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor.
![Photo of K. Toby Stoetzer, LCSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a57d7848-b4df-4b79-90b0-f27824d93feb/2/320x400.jpeg)
I work with families, couples, and individuals, including adults, adolescents and children. Treatment modalities include: ( TFCBT), Solution Focused therapy, Family Systems therapy, play therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, CPT, creative and expressive therapies. I approach clients with a strength based focus, believing that clients move at their own pace and have a right to self determination. Therapy starts "where the client is" and goals reflect their needs and input.. I do not discriminate or refuse professional services to anyone on the basis of race, gender, religion, national origin, or sexual orientation.
I work with families, couples, and individuals, including adults, adolescents and children. Treatment modalities include: ( TFCBT), Solution Focused therapy, Family Systems therapy, play therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, CPT, creative and expressive therapies. I approach clients with a strength based focus, believing that clients move at their own pace and have a right to self determination. Therapy starts "where the client is" and goals reflect their needs and input.. I do not discriminate or refuse professional services to anyone on the basis of race, gender, religion, national origin, or sexual orientation.
![Photo of Sierra Summerville, LCSW, LCAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a278a605-4b1c-4f10-b8ae-b1f365a7742b/1/320x400.png)
Sierra Summerville
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boone, NC 28607
It is important for you to find a therapist you feel comfortable with. I seek to provide a space of hope, non-judgment, and authenticity. I support individuals navigating a variety of challenges including anxiety, depression, substance use, trauma, and relationships. My primary populations are emerging and young adults; I work with people ages 14+. I am passionate about human rights, social justice, reproductive rights, and I am an LGBTQI+ ally. Through holistic person-centered empowerment, the individuals I work with take steps to grow, heal, and create a life worth living.
It is important for you to find a therapist you feel comfortable with. I seek to provide a space of hope, non-judgment, and authenticity. I support individuals navigating a variety of challenges including anxiety, depression, substance use, trauma, and relationships. My primary populations are emerging and young adults; I work with people ages 14+. I am passionate about human rights, social justice, reproductive rights, and I am an LGBTQI+ ally. Through holistic person-centered empowerment, the individuals I work with take steps to grow, heal, and create a life worth living.
![Photo of Bec Long - Beck Long Counseling, PLLC, LCMHC, LCAS, NBCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6772c093-e51b-4a35-9fb6-7eb636d0ec48/2/320x400.jpeg)
Beck Long Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS, NBCC
Verified Verified
Boone, NC 28607
Welcome. I am a person centered, LGBTQ+ clinical mental health counselor and addictions specialist. I use an eclectic approach for a range of ages, developmental-transitional stages towards positive shifts in attitude, behavior, and mood a shift towards client wellbeing. I will work collaboratively with you, use arts therapy, area resources including outdoor settings and experiences, paired with DBT and trauma-informed care for harm reduction and to assist rebuilding trust in yourself first. And hopefully the goal is to construct resources and help identify self strategies for increased positive life experiences in your world.
Welcome. I am a person centered, LGBTQ+ clinical mental health counselor and addictions specialist. I use an eclectic approach for a range of ages, developmental-transitional stages towards positive shifts in attitude, behavior, and mood a shift towards client wellbeing. I will work collaboratively with you, use arts therapy, area resources including outdoor settings and experiences, paired with DBT and trauma-informed care for harm reduction and to assist rebuilding trust in yourself first. And hopefully the goal is to construct resources and help identify self strategies for increased positive life experiences in your world.
![Photo of Christy Miller, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fd6051ff-01d5-41a4-b307-91b0bac0a3c6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Christy Miller
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Boone, NC 28607
Waitlist for new clients
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and AAMFT Approved Supervisor. I have extensive experience in working with individuals and their families with complex trauma. I work with individuals, students, couples, families and adolescents to promote strengthening individual and relational health through a holistic and systemic lense. I firmly believe individuals exist within the context of relationships (e.g. marriage, couple, family, friends, peers, community, etc.) and these relationships influence the individual’s physical, psychological, and emotional health. Jax attends sessions to bring smiles and comfort!
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and AAMFT Approved Supervisor. I have extensive experience in working with individuals and their families with complex trauma. I work with individuals, students, couples, families and adolescents to promote strengthening individual and relational health through a holistic and systemic lense. I firmly believe individuals exist within the context of relationships (e.g. marriage, couple, family, friends, peers, community, etc.) and these relationships influence the individual’s physical, psychological, and emotional health. Jax attends sessions to bring smiles and comfort!
![Photo of Jody R Gardner, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48180dd5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a graduate of Appalachian State University with a Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy, and have been practicing since 2005. I specialize in work with individuals, couples, families and teens, and have a focus in systems theory and narrative therapy. I prefer to work in collaboration with my clients to use the expertise that they have in their own lives to help find strategies that can help them build the life that they want.
I am a graduate of Appalachian State University with a Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy, and have been practicing since 2005. I specialize in work with individuals, couples, families and teens, and have a focus in systems theory and narrative therapy. I prefer to work in collaboration with my clients to use the expertise that they have in their own lives to help find strategies that can help them build the life that they want.
![Photo of Jake Keller, MA MMT, LMFT, MT-BC, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f1d7c779-6a9b-4c07-92e0-0cbca6cdd3dd/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jake Keller
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA MMT, LMFT, MT-BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Boone, NC 28607
Sometimes we can feel as if on a mountaintop with a sense of clarity and other times in a valley unable to see the next step. Life is a journey with experiences and seasons where we can all use some help along the way. Whether it be marriage, dating, work, friendships, or family dynamics, relationships can be complex. Through life's complexities we can learn and grow. I believe everyone deserves to experience joy and live an abundant life. By living authentically to ourselves and others we can become the best version of ourselves. My desire is to meet you where you are and collaboratively work with you to reach your full potential.
Sometimes we can feel as if on a mountaintop with a sense of clarity and other times in a valley unable to see the next step. Life is a journey with experiences and seasons where we can all use some help along the way. Whether it be marriage, dating, work, friendships, or family dynamics, relationships can be complex. Through life's complexities we can learn and grow. I believe everyone deserves to experience joy and live an abundant life. By living authentically to ourselves and others we can become the best version of ourselves. My desire is to meet you where you are and collaboratively work with you to reach your full potential.
![Photo of Melissa R Parlier - Melissa R. Parlier, LMFT, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f8e2782-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you struggling with depression or anxiety? Are you having difficulty bouncing back after a traumatic experience? Are you having difficulties in a relationship? I can help! I am a licensed marriage and family therapist with over 20 years of experience providing trauma-informed services to children, adults, families, and couples. Areas of specialization include: anxiety and mood disorders, PTSD, grief and loss, child/adolescent behavior problems, adjustment and phase of life issues, and interpersonal relationship problems.
Are you struggling with depression or anxiety? Are you having difficulty bouncing back after a traumatic experience? Are you having difficulties in a relationship? I can help! I am a licensed marriage and family therapist with over 20 years of experience providing trauma-informed services to children, adults, families, and couples. Areas of specialization include: anxiety and mood disorders, PTSD, grief and loss, child/adolescent behavior problems, adjustment and phase of life issues, and interpersonal relationship problems.
See more therapy options for Watauga County
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.