Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Cedar Park, TX

Photo of Anne Marie Jennings, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anne Marie Jennings
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cedar Park, TX 78613
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 Vicki Ray, MBA, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Vicki Ray
Licensed Professional Counselor, MBA, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cedar Park, TX 78613
My specialties include Dual Diagnosis (co-occurring addiction & mental health issues); support for family and friends of those with addiction and/or mental health issues; Anxiety; Bipolar; Trauma and PTSD; career challenges; major life transitions; and corporate, military, missionary and internationally mobile individuals (global nomads or TCKs).
I believe the best counseling is done in a safe, confidential and collaborative environment. It can be difficult to reach out, so it is important to find a counselor with whom you feel comfortable.
My specialties include Dual Diagnosis (co-occurring addiction & mental health issues); support for family and friends of those with addiction and/or mental health issues; Anxiety; Bipolar; Trauma and PTSD; career challenges; major life transitions; and corporate, military, missionary and internationally mobile individuals (global nomads or TCKs).
I believe the best counseling is done in a safe, confidential and collaborative environment. It can be difficult to reach out, so it is important to find a counselor with whom you feel comfortable.
(512) 663-6368 View (512) 663-6368
Photo of Peter Elliott Goldstein - Austin City Family Practice and Mental Health, MD
Austin City Family Practice and Mental Health
MD
Verified Verified
Cedar Park, TX 78613  (Online Only)
Greetings, I am a Board Certified Family Doctor with an interest in Mental Health and Addiction Medicine. I have extensive experience managing Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, and certain Thought Disorders. I also enjoy treating Opioid Addiction with Suboxone. Many of my skills were developed at the Eastern Pennsylvania Institute and the Medical College of PA. I will be prescribing antidepressants, anxiety medications, and medications for PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Personality Disorders, and others. I will also share some of the principles I learned at the Institute for Rational Emotive Therapy in NYC.
Greetings, I am a Board Certified Family Doctor with an interest in Mental Health and Addiction Medicine. I have extensive experience managing Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, and certain Thought Disorders. I also enjoy treating Opioid Addiction with Suboxone. Many of my skills were developed at the Eastern Pennsylvania Institute and the Medical College of PA. I will be prescribing antidepressants, anxiety medications, and medications for PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Personality Disorders, and others. I will also share some of the principles I learned at the Institute for Rational Emotive Therapy in NYC.
(507) 509-2171 View (507) 509-2171
Photo of Joann Martillotti-Cartwright, MA, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Joann Martillotti-Cartwright
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cedar Park, TX 78613
My specialties are: family struggles around recovery/addiction/mental health issues; substance abuse/addictions; anger management, healthy relationships, and challenging personalities/relationship behaviors; and trauma, depression/bipolar disorder, and anxiety.
My clients’ success has made space for you! Move from stuck to empowered! If you want to change - your relationships, your relationship to alcohol/drugs/food/sex/social media, your anxiety or depression, the way you react under stress - then call me today. You can have the life you desire and deserve. I want to help you develop new tools and resources to be who you want to be, get the relationships you want, and reach exceptional goals. You don't have to go it alone. Let's work together to break through! Now offering several therapy packages - Enhancing Sobriety, Transforming Relationships, and Breaking Free of Trauma. Call today!
My specialties are: family struggles around recovery/addiction/mental health issues; substance abuse/addictions; anger management, healthy relationships, and challenging personalities/relationship behaviors; and trauma, depression/bipolar disorder, and anxiety.
My clients’ success has made space for you! Move from stuck to empowered! If you want to change - your relationships, your relationship to alcohol/drugs/food/sex/social media, your anxiety or depression, the way you react under stress - then call me today. You can have the life you desire and deserve. I want to help you develop new tools and resources to be who you want to be, get the relationships you want, and reach exceptional goals. You don't have to go it alone. Let's work together to break through! Now offering several therapy packages - Enhancing Sobriety, Transforming Relationships, and Breaking Free of Trauma. Call today!
(512) 355-7320 View (512) 355-7320
Photo of Diana Woodard, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Diana Woodard
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Cedar Park, TX 78613  (Online Only)
My practice is geared towards adults, couples, teens, and families, who may be experiencing depression, anxiety, bipolar, addiction, grief & loss, or relationship conflict.
We all have the capacity to manage life, however sometimes we may feel like we're going through the motions or struggling to just get by. We may feel conflicted or overwhelmed with feelings of depression, anger, or anxiety. Or we may be having difficulty coping with relationship pressures, life transitions, or a painful loss. I view these moments of conflict as opportunities for change and growth, and therapy as an avenue to increase insight, resolve painful feelings, and learn to change ineffective patterns.
My practice is geared towards adults, couples, teens, and families, who may be experiencing depression, anxiety, bipolar, addiction, grief & loss, or relationship conflict.
We all have the capacity to manage life, however sometimes we may feel like we're going through the motions or struggling to just get by. We may feel conflicted or overwhelmed with feelings of depression, anger, or anxiety. Or we may be having difficulty coping with relationship pressures, life transitions, or a painful loss. I view these moments of conflict as opportunities for change and growth, and therapy as an avenue to increase insight, resolve painful feelings, and learn to change ineffective patterns.
(512) 213-4845 View (512) 213-4845
Photo of Jan Lea Anderson, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jan Lea Anderson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Cedar Park, TX 78613
It's a drug free approach to anxiety, bipolar, depression and behavioral issues with children.
I understand how important it is for a client to be able to feel safe and confident when talking to someone about their deepest feelings. I feel honored that I am trusted with that confidence and my clients find that within the first few minutes of session they can relax and know they won't be judged and that I'm there to help. We work together to promote change and its easier to do when you're not alone in the process.
It's a drug free approach to anxiety, bipolar, depression and behavioral issues with children.
I understand how important it is for a client to be able to feel safe and confident when talking to someone about their deepest feelings. I feel honored that I am trusted with that confidence and my clients find that within the first few minutes of session they can relax and know they won't be judged and that I'm there to help. We work together to promote change and its easier to do when you're not alone in the process.
(512) 271-5413 View (512) 271-5413
Photo of Taryn Stilwell, MA, LPC-A, NCC
Taryn Stilwell
LPC Associate, MA, LPC-A, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cedar Park, TX 78613
My areas of interest and specializations include trauma (including PTSD and C-PTSD), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), anxiety, adjustment disorders, relationship struggles, grief and loss, depression, bipolar disorder, gender exploration and affirmation, and LGBTQIA+ related concerns.
The journey of finding the right therapist can be daunting, but also incredibly rewarding! My name is Taryn, and I am highly dedicated and empathetic individual with a passion for helping people reach their full potential. My professional experience has given me a deep understanding of trauma, anxiety, grief and loss, relationships, and other various mental health obstacles. I am committed to using my knowledge and expertise to help individuals overcome these challenges and embrace their authenticity. Whomever I am working with, I strive to create a compassionate environment where clients feel supported and empowered.
My areas of interest and specializations include trauma (including PTSD and C-PTSD), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), anxiety, adjustment disorders, relationship struggles, grief and loss, depression, bipolar disorder, gender exploration and affirmation, and LGBTQIA+ related concerns.
The journey of finding the right therapist can be daunting, but also incredibly rewarding! My name is Taryn, and I am highly dedicated and empathetic individual with a passion for helping people reach their full potential. My professional experience has given me a deep understanding of trauma, anxiety, grief and loss, relationships, and other various mental health obstacles. I am committed to using my knowledge and expertise to help individuals overcome these challenges and embrace their authenticity. Whomever I am working with, I strive to create a compassionate environment where clients feel supported and empowered.
(737) 215-4925 View (737) 215-4925
Photo of Sabah Ali, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sabah Ali
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Cedar Park, TX 78613
My name is Sabah Ali. I am a licensed professional counselor and have been practicing therapy since 2014. I have high levels of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly facing Anxiety, Depression, Relationship Issues, Stress, and Bipolar Disorder. My therapeutic approaches are Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Solution Focused Brief (SFBT), Client-Centered Therapy, Couples Therapy, and Supportive Therapy. I genuinely believe that the obstacles of your past can become the gateways that lead to new beginnings.
My name is Sabah Ali. I am a licensed professional counselor and have been practicing therapy since 2014. I have high levels of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly facing Anxiety, Depression, Relationship Issues, Stress, and Bipolar Disorder. My therapeutic approaches are Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Solution Focused Brief (SFBT), Client-Centered Therapy, Couples Therapy, and Supportive Therapy. I genuinely believe that the obstacles of your past can become the gateways that lead to new beginnings.
(254) 875-0421 View (254) 875-0421
Photo of Sukura Webster - Fearless Counseling Center, PLLC, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Fearless Counseling Center, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Cedar Park, TX 78613  (Online Only)
Hi My name is SuKura Webster. I am licensed in New Hampshire and Texas. I completed my graduation training at Family Time Crisis and Counseling Center where I gained experience working with survivors of physical, emotional and sexual abuse. I am experienced in working with issues of depression, anxiety, self-esteem, self-harm, schizophrenia disorder, schizoaffective disorder, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, PTSD and behavioral disturbances. My passion is shown through my ability to assist clients with being the best version of themselves.
Hi My name is SuKura Webster. I am licensed in New Hampshire and Texas. I completed my graduation training at Family Time Crisis and Counseling Center where I gained experience working with survivors of physical, emotional and sexual abuse. I am experienced in working with issues of depression, anxiety, self-esteem, self-harm, schizophrenia disorder, schizoaffective disorder, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, PTSD and behavioral disturbances. My passion is shown through my ability to assist clients with being the best version of themselves.
(281) 519-2189 View (281) 519-2189
Photo of Tad Minto, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tad Minto
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cedar Park, TX 78613
James is a licensed clinical social worker.His practice spans over 26 years (post licensure), and he works with children, teenagers, and adults seeking help with a variety of issues. Areas of work he has done with clients include:healing from trauma; coping with depression and bipolar disorder; managing impulse control and disruptive behavior disorders; working out marital and family problems; coping with addictions and substance abuse; grief work; career counseling; and effectively managing life transitions. James specializes in working with children and families.
James is a licensed clinical social worker.His practice spans over 26 years (post licensure), and he works with children, teenagers, and adults seeking help with a variety of issues. Areas of work he has done with clients include:healing from trauma; coping with depression and bipolar disorder; managing impulse control and disruptive behavior disorders; working out marital and family problems; coping with addictions and substance abuse; grief work; career counseling; and effectively managing life transitions. James specializes in working with children and families.
(512) 790-7159 View (512) 790-7159
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 Christina Glaze, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christina Glaze
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cedar Park, TX 78613
Christina is interested in working with teens, adults, and couples who are experiencing difficulties due to stress, depression, anxiety, life transitions, or addictions. Christina’s most positive therapeutic results have stemmed from a collaboration of Solution-Focused Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to allow individuals to challenge negative thoughts and to implement problem-solving strategies. Christina has worked as a Social Worker specializing in severe mental illnesses including Schizophrenia and Bipolar Disorder in local psychiatric hospitals. She is passionate about erasing the stigma of mental illness in society.
Christina is interested in working with teens, adults, and couples who are experiencing difficulties due to stress, depression, anxiety, life transitions, or addictions. Christina’s most positive therapeutic results have stemmed from a collaboration of Solution-Focused Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to allow individuals to challenge negative thoughts and to implement problem-solving strategies. Christina has worked as a Social Worker specializing in severe mental illnesses including Schizophrenia and Bipolar Disorder in local psychiatric hospitals. She is passionate about erasing the stigma of mental illness in society.
(737) 252-7084 View (737) 252-7084
Photo of Sandie Hinton-Owens, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sandie Hinton-Owens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Cedar Park, TX 78613
Sandie has a passion for helping people from all walks of life, in all stages of life. She believes by creating a safe, welcoming environment, and building trusting relationships change is possible. Her goal is to help people become aware of their own skill sets and resiliency from within through the use of strengths based and solutions focused therapy in addition to CBT and a hit of DBT skills. Sandie has experience working with a variety of mental health diagnoses including anxiety, depression, bipolar, borderline personality, and ASD. She can also provide clarification and advocacy for ARD and IEP paperwork and/or meetings.
Sandie has a passion for helping people from all walks of life, in all stages of life. She believes by creating a safe, welcoming environment, and building trusting relationships change is possible. Her goal is to help people become aware of their own skill sets and resiliency from within through the use of strengths based and solutions focused therapy in addition to CBT and a hit of DBT skills. Sandie has experience working with a variety of mental health diagnoses including anxiety, depression, bipolar, borderline personality, and ASD. She can also provide clarification and advocacy for ARD and IEP paperwork and/or meetings.
(512) 729-1488 View (512) 729-1488
Photo of Amanda Youngblood (Enteave Counseling), LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amanda Youngblood (Enteave Counseling)
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cedar Park, TX 78630
As a licensed professional counselor, I have helped clients struggling with a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, adjustment, self-esteem, stress management, life transitions, behavior and academic concerns, school refusal, and more. I work with many age groups from children as young as five to the elderly. I have experience working with highly diverse client populations in a variety of mental health settings. I have worked in community-based agencies, a telehealth pediatric program, school districts, and a university counseling center.
As a licensed professional counselor, I have helped clients struggling with a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, adjustment, self-esteem, stress management, life transitions, behavior and academic concerns, school refusal, and more. I work with many age groups from children as young as five to the elderly. I have experience working with highly diverse client populations in a variety of mental health settings. I have worked in community-based agencies, a telehealth pediatric program, school districts, and a university counseling center.
(512) 843-7899 View (512) 843-7899
Photo of Sabrina Eads (Enteave Counseling), LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sabrina Eads (Enteave Counseling)
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cedar Park, TX 78630  (Online Only)
Evening Availability! Therapy doesn’t look the same for every person. Sabrina gets that. She provides an individualized counseling experience that can be received from the comfort of your home, office, or other quiet personal space. Her sessions are 100% telehealth to save you time, frustration, and enhance your personal comfort. She regularly works with clients struggling with depression, bipolar disorder, trauma, grief/loss, chronic pain, and life transitions. She welcomes LGBTQIA+ clients enthusiastically and is polyamory- and kink-friendly. She is also body positive and is informed on health at every size (HAES).
Evening Availability! Therapy doesn’t look the same for every person. Sabrina gets that. She provides an individualized counseling experience that can be received from the comfort of your home, office, or other quiet personal space. Her sessions are 100% telehealth to save you time, frustration, and enhance your personal comfort. She regularly works with clients struggling with depression, bipolar disorder, trauma, grief/loss, chronic pain, and life transitions. She welcomes LGBTQIA+ clients enthusiastically and is polyamory- and kink-friendly. She is also body positive and is informed on health at every size (HAES).
(512) 790-6935 View (512) 790-6935
Photo of Crystal Morales, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Crystal Morales
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Cedar Park, TX 78613  (Online Only)
Everyone has "baggage" and it is what truly makes us unique. Sometimes our baggage is heavy which can make our journey extra challenging. At times, we just need someone to listen to our thoughts, help us understand what is going on and help us understand what we are needing or wanting. I went into counseling in order to work with those who suffer from depression, anxiety, body issues and trauma. As children, we are not necessary in control of our childhood and experiences but as adults we are responsible.
Everyone has "baggage" and it is what truly makes us unique. Sometimes our baggage is heavy which can make our journey extra challenging. At times, we just need someone to listen to our thoughts, help us understand what is going on and help us understand what we are needing or wanting. I went into counseling in order to work with those who suffer from depression, anxiety, body issues and trauma. As children, we are not necessary in control of our childhood and experiences but as adults we are responsible.
(737) 302-4874 View (737) 302-4874
Photo of Andy Martin, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Andy Martin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cedar Park, TX 78613  (Online Only)
Dealing with the weight of your emotions can be overwhelming especially if it's trauma. It's important to know that you don't have to face it all alone. These struggles can take a toll on your mental, emotional, and physical well-being over time, these struggles can be private or can affect your work and relationships. The good news is that together, we can work towards finding relief and healing. I believe in a collaborative and supportive approach, where you have the power to determine the goals you want to achieve. By increasing clarity and developing coping strategies you can create a more enriching narrative in your life!
Dealing with the weight of your emotions can be overwhelming especially if it's trauma. It's important to know that you don't have to face it all alone. These struggles can take a toll on your mental, emotional, and physical well-being over time, these struggles can be private or can affect your work and relationships. The good news is that together, we can work towards finding relief and healing. I believe in a collaborative and supportive approach, where you have the power to determine the goals you want to achieve. By increasing clarity and developing coping strategies you can create a more enriching narrative in your life!
(512) 580-8287 View (512) 580-8287
Photo of Carney Soderberg, PsyD, Psychologist
Carney Soderberg
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Cedar Park, TX 78613
I help young people understand their strengths as well as their challenges, discover healthy ways to express and manage fears and insecurities, and accept support from those who care about them. Many lack important skills to successfully manage demands of school, relationships, and stressful life events, leaving them "stuck" in patterns of reactivity that can be concerning and confusing to others. Through our work and collaboration with their families and other care providers, my patients often report improved self-awareness, self-esteem, school performance, environmental support, and interactions with peers and family members.
I help young people understand their strengths as well as their challenges, discover healthy ways to express and manage fears and insecurities, and accept support from those who care about them. Many lack important skills to successfully manage demands of school, relationships, and stressful life events, leaving them "stuck" in patterns of reactivity that can be concerning and confusing to others. Through our work and collaboration with their families and other care providers, my patients often report improved self-awareness, self-esteem, school performance, environmental support, and interactions with peers and family members.
(512) 910-7582 View (512) 910-7582
Photo of Jennifer L Harrington, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer L Harrington
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cedar Park, TX 78613  (Online Only)
***Teletherapy***Phone/Video Sessions and Messaging Plans Available*** I am currently accepting new clients across the state of Texas for teletherapy. As a therapist my goal is to join you on your journey, provide support, offer tools, and empower you to meet your goals. My style is non-judgmental and exploratory. I will be direct and honest with you, challenge you when necessary, and always strive to bring out your greatest potential.
***Teletherapy***Phone/Video Sessions and Messaging Plans Available*** I am currently accepting new clients across the state of Texas for teletherapy. As a therapist my goal is to join you on your journey, provide support, offer tools, and empower you to meet your goals. My style is non-judgmental and exploratory. I will be direct and honest with you, challenge you when necessary, and always strive to bring out your greatest potential.
(214) 972-3398 View (214) 972-3398
Photo of Erin T. White - The Whole Child Center, LPC-S, RPT-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
The Whole Child Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Cedar Park, TX 78613
Emails from this site are not coming through - please call instead! You knew that parenting would be difficult at times, but you didn't expect just how challenging your child's struggles could be. Seeking therapy has been a difficult decision. You have tried your best, doing all you can think of to help them get back on the right track. You feel worn out, frustrated, worried, embarrassed, confused, even guilty. Your child's problem has become more than you can handle alone. You need help. It's hard to imagine that it could be better, but it will.
Emails from this site are not coming through - please call instead! You knew that parenting would be difficult at times, but you didn't expect just how challenging your child's struggles could be. Seeking therapy has been a difficult decision. You have tried your best, doing all you can think of to help them get back on the right track. You feel worn out, frustrated, worried, embarrassed, confused, even guilty. Your child's problem has become more than you can handle alone. You need help. It's hard to imagine that it could be better, but it will.
(512) 489-6349 View (512) 489-6349
1
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.