Photo of New Leaf Services Llc - New Leaf Services, LLC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
New Leaf Services, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Cleburne, TX 76033
At New Leaf Services, LLC we offer a wide variety of therapy and specialties. We offer individual, family, and couples counseling. Specialty treatment is available in Trauma, Abuse, PTSD, Substance Abuse, Grief Counseling, Depression, Anxiety, Stress Management, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Health Issues, and Animal Assisted Therapy. For counselors, we offer CEU training, administrative services, billing, credentialing, and general bookkeeping.
At New Leaf Services, LLC we offer a wide variety of therapy and specialties. We offer individual, family, and couples counseling. Specialty treatment is available in Trauma, Abuse, PTSD, Substance Abuse, Grief Counseling, Depression, Anxiety, Stress Management, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Health Issues, and Animal Assisted Therapy. For counselors, we offer CEU training, administrative services, billing, credentialing, and general bookkeeping.
(855) 236-7013 View (855) 236-7013

Online Therapists

Photo of Nancy Lownds, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nancy Lownds
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070
As a licensed clinical social worker in Texas, I have 20 years of experience that includes working in Inpatient Behavioral Health Hospitals specializing in trauma and substance use disorders, and Outpatient Programs in trauma and addiction. I have worked with co-occurring disorders, such as depression, bipolar disorders, anxiety, PTSD and addiction. I grew up in Atlanta, Georgia and attended the University of Georgia for my BSW degree and The University of Texas in Arlington for my MSSW degree. I am trained in CBT, DBT, Family Systems, Trauma Model Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy.
As a licensed clinical social worker in Texas, I have 20 years of experience that includes working in Inpatient Behavioral Health Hospitals specializing in trauma and substance use disorders, and Outpatient Programs in trauma and addiction. I have worked with co-occurring disorders, such as depression, bipolar disorders, anxiety, PTSD and addiction. I grew up in Atlanta, Georgia and attended the University of Georgia for my BSW degree and The University of Texas in Arlington for my MSSW degree. I am trained in CBT, DBT, Family Systems, Trauma Model Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy.
(972) 945-0438 View (972) 945-0438
Photo of Meredith Rogers, MA, LPCC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Meredith Rogers
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Harker Heights, TX 76548  (Online Only)
I have significant experience with patients suffering from depression, anxiety disorders, substance abuse, bipolar disorder and suicidal thoughts.
My approach to therapy is empathetic and gentle, yet practical and straightforward. I use cognitive behavioral therapy, which is the most widely used evidence-based practice. I partner with my clients to challenge their thoughts, ideas, and behaviors with the goal of facilitating real, lasting change and to achieve personal growth. Some of my specialties include anxiety, depression, substance abuse, coping skills, military family issues, marriage and family counseling.
I have significant experience with patients suffering from depression, anxiety disorders, substance abuse, bipolar disorder and suicidal thoughts.
My approach to therapy is empathetic and gentle, yet practical and straightforward. I use cognitive behavioral therapy, which is the most widely used evidence-based practice. I partner with my clients to challenge their thoughts, ideas, and behaviors with the goal of facilitating real, lasting change and to achieve personal growth. Some of my specialties include anxiety, depression, substance abuse, coping skills, military family issues, marriage and family counseling.
(254) 332-2382 View (254) 332-2382
Photo of Casey Leamy, LMFT, LCDC, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist
Casey Leamy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCDC, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75252
My experience encompasses substance abuse, self-harm, domestic violence, trauma, adolescent behavioral issues, relational issues, family conflict, parenting, depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, Adjustment Disorders, Bipolar, Borderline, and ADHD.
Nothing in life is one size fits all; therapy is no exception. My first priority is to establish a trusting relationship with you, then together create goals tailored to your individual needs. As humans, we tend to shy away from uncomfortable, unwanted, or overwhelming feelings/thoughts. We all develop habits to cope; sometimes those habits may no longer be helpful. In a non-judgmental and safe environment, we will work together, unlock your potential and create the change you desire. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor and fully trained in EMDR in Texas.
My experience encompasses substance abuse, self-harm, domestic violence, trauma, adolescent behavioral issues, relational issues, family conflict, parenting, depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, Adjustment Disorders, Bipolar, Borderline, and ADHD.
Nothing in life is one size fits all; therapy is no exception. My first priority is to establish a trusting relationship with you, then together create goals tailored to your individual needs. As humans, we tend to shy away from uncomfortable, unwanted, or overwhelming feelings/thoughts. We all develop habits to cope; sometimes those habits may no longer be helpful. In a non-judgmental and safe environment, we will work together, unlock your potential and create the change you desire. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor and fully trained in EMDR in Texas.
(469) 778-4625 View (469) 778-4625
Photo of Connie M. Siciliano Avila, PhD, LP, LPC-S, Psychologist
Connie M. Siciliano Avila
Psychologist, PhD, LP, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Rockwall, TX 75087
My focus is on trauma, addiction, and relationships. Do you want to get control of your life, emotions or lack of emotions, stop problem behaviors, improve self-esteem, improve relationships, cope, and stop harmful thoughts? I have extensive experience in clinical and nonclinical settings with issues, such as abuse, relationships, addictions, depression, anxiety, dissociation, PTSD, alcohol abuse, and bipolar disorders. Also, past client concerns included: personality disorders, grief, anger, divorce, parenting, codependency, GLBTQ, multicultural, spiritual, DID, and men/women issues. Call for a free consultation.
My focus is on trauma, addiction, and relationships. Do you want to get control of your life, emotions or lack of emotions, stop problem behaviors, improve self-esteem, improve relationships, cope, and stop harmful thoughts? I have extensive experience in clinical and nonclinical settings with issues, such as abuse, relationships, addictions, depression, anxiety, dissociation, PTSD, alcohol abuse, and bipolar disorders. Also, past client concerns included: personality disorders, grief, anger, divorce, parenting, codependency, GLBTQ, multicultural, spiritual, DID, and men/women issues. Call for a free consultation.
(214) 830-9879 View (214) 830-9879
Photo of Barbara Crump, LPC-S, LMFT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Barbara Crump
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, LMFT
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75071
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor and LMFT in Texas. You and I will work together to uncover your story, understand how you got to where you are, explore options, and make new choices to create new healthy patterns. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, ADHD, psychosis, adjustment disorders, panic disorder, social anxiety, substance abuse and dependence, anger issues, trauma recovery, boundaries, codependency, self-worth issues, shame, and grief. I am trained in Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), which is highly effective in healing PTSD, trauma, and other related issues.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor and LMFT in Texas. You and I will work together to uncover your story, understand how you got to where you are, explore options, and make new choices to create new healthy patterns. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, ADHD, psychosis, adjustment disorders, panic disorder, social anxiety, substance abuse and dependence, anger issues, trauma recovery, boundaries, codependency, self-worth issues, shame, and grief. I am trained in Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), which is highly effective in healing PTSD, trauma, and other related issues.
(469) 656-7367 View (469) 656-7367
Photo of Krista Woods, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Krista Woods
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75243
Have you been struggling with feelings of sadness, anxiety or panic attacks? Or are you tired of people using you or struggling to get motivated? I provide compassionate care while providing the tools and information to help you heal. Other challenges like drugs/alcohol, bipolar disorder; or if you're not sure what the problem is but need help and support, I will work with you to help you live a better, healthier life. My extensive experience also includes helping children, teens and adults impacted by foster care, have been adopted, are birth parents, or who are adoptive/ foster parents.
Have you been struggling with feelings of sadness, anxiety or panic attacks? Or are you tired of people using you or struggling to get motivated? I provide compassionate care while providing the tools and information to help you heal. Other challenges like drugs/alcohol, bipolar disorder; or if you're not sure what the problem is but need help and support, I will work with you to help you live a better, healthier life. My extensive experience also includes helping children, teens and adults impacted by foster care, have been adopted, are birth parents, or who are adoptive/ foster parents.
(940) 220-9758 View (940) 220-9758
Photo of Caroline Brenner, PhD, Psychologist
Caroline Brenner
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Arlington, TX 76011
**I am currently only accepting new patients for psychological assessment.** I am a licensed clinical psychologist working with adults, adolescents, and children. Therapy is a collaborative process between therapist and client. I strive to create a supportive environment in which clients can feel safe to explore their feelings and address barriers that are interfering with their quality of life. I draw from a variety of treatment approaches to match your own personal needs and goals. I also offer psychological/psychoeducational testing to rule out learning disabilities, ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD, and Bipolar disorder.
**I am currently only accepting new patients for psychological assessment.** I am a licensed clinical psychologist working with adults, adolescents, and children. Therapy is a collaborative process between therapist and client. I strive to create a supportive environment in which clients can feel safe to explore their feelings and address barriers that are interfering with their quality of life. I draw from a variety of treatment approaches to match your own personal needs and goals. I also offer psychological/psychoeducational testing to rule out learning disabilities, ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD, and Bipolar disorder.
(682) 299-6096 View (682) 299-6096
Photo of Chris Epstein, MA, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Chris Epstein
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75230
I have special interests in working with those struggling with anxiety and depressive disorders, dual diagnosis, spiritual issues, substance use disorders, boundary issues, conflict resolution, interpersonal skill-building and bipolar disorder.
Being a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas for many years, I have enjoyed a type of therapy that allows an individual to find freedom through acceptance of their issues rather than running from the reality of their existence. As we come to understand our past and how it has shaped us, we can then begin the practice of choosing differently for ourselves in the present and for our future. This search is a sacred process where therapist and client join together, rather than a therapy done 'to' you as a client. I would like to join in that process with you!
I have special interests in working with those struggling with anxiety and depressive disorders, dual diagnosis, spiritual issues, substance use disorders, boundary issues, conflict resolution, interpersonal skill-building and bipolar disorder.
Being a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas for many years, I have enjoyed a type of therapy that allows an individual to find freedom through acceptance of their issues rather than running from the reality of their existence. As we come to understand our past and how it has shaped us, we can then begin the practice of choosing differently for ourselves in the present and for our future. This search is a sacred process where therapist and client join together, rather than a therapy done 'to' you as a client. I would like to join in that process with you!
(469) 208-3861 View (469) 208-3861
Photo of Lisa G Landry - Landry Therapy Group PLLC - Arlington, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Landry Therapy Group PLLC - Arlington
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, TX 76012  (Online Only)
We offer treatment services for marital/couple, anxiety, depression, PTSD, self-injury, suicidal ideation/attempt, bipolar disorder, lesbian, gay, bi-sexual, transgender issues, & general life stresses & stressors.
*TAKING NEW CLIENTS* Our goal is to form a bond of trust and commitment with our clients. With the proper support and guidance in their lives, we believe people have an inherent ability to persevere through struggles with which they are confronted. Lisa works with adults, individuals, couples, and LGBTQ+. Our other 8 therapists work with children, adolescents, adults, and families. We help clients with anxiety, depression, self harm/suicidal ideation, trauma, addiction, issues resulting from trauma, and life's daily struggles. We would like to help you foster a healthier style of living to ensure your future well-being.
We offer treatment services for marital/couple, anxiety, depression, PTSD, self-injury, suicidal ideation/attempt, bipolar disorder, lesbian, gay, bi-sexual, transgender issues, & general life stresses & stressors.
*TAKING NEW CLIENTS* Our goal is to form a bond of trust and commitment with our clients. With the proper support and guidance in their lives, we believe people have an inherent ability to persevere through struggles with which they are confronted. Lisa works with adults, individuals, couples, and LGBTQ+. Our other 8 therapists work with children, adolescents, adults, and families. We help clients with anxiety, depression, self harm/suicidal ideation, trauma, addiction, issues resulting from trauma, and life's daily struggles. We would like to help you foster a healthier style of living to ensure your future well-being.
(214) 234-9157 View (214) 234-9157
Photo of Lindsey Grela, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lindsey Grela
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Little Elm, TX 75068
Lindsey has experience working in a domestic violence outreach center, a community health crisis center, and a behavioral day treatment program for children and adolescents. As a part of her experience, Lindsey has worked with children and adults struggling with a variety of concerns, including, but not limited to: Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Abuse, Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar disorder, Grief, Relationship Concerns, and Personal Identity.
Lindsey has experience working in a domestic violence outreach center, a community health crisis center, and a behavioral day treatment program for children and adolescents. As a part of her experience, Lindsey has worked with children and adults struggling with a variety of concerns, including, but not limited to: Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Abuse, Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar disorder, Grief, Relationship Concerns, and Personal Identity.
(214) 225-2751 View (214) 225-2751
Photo of Dr. Jeff J. Rocker, PhD, NCC, LPC, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Jeff J. Rocker
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, NCC, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75204
With 12 years of experience working with clients going through individual, relationship, and family issues, Celebrity Therapist Dr. Jeff Rocker has provided therapeutic services to clients nationwide. He is Licensed in 14 states and has served clients from all age groups. Over the years, Dr. Jeff has organized lectures and various events in the community, including excursions and retreats for couples to improve their communication and better understand each other. He has experience working with athletes in the NFL, NBA, and MLB. In addition, Dr. Jeff has also worked with clients in the Movie, Music, and Entertainment Industries.
With 12 years of experience working with clients going through individual, relationship, and family issues, Celebrity Therapist Dr. Jeff Rocker has provided therapeutic services to clients nationwide. He is Licensed in 14 states and has served clients from all age groups. Over the years, Dr. Jeff has organized lectures and various events in the community, including excursions and retreats for couples to improve their communication and better understand each other. He has experience working with athletes in the NFL, NBA, and MLB. In addition, Dr. Jeff has also worked with clients in the Movie, Music, and Entertainment Industries.
(281) 984-5276 View (281) 984-5276
Photo of Lauren Ashley Mayberry - Keller Child and Family Therapy, LPC-A, NCC
Keller Child and Family Therapy
LPC Associate, LPC-A, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Keller, TX 76248
Hi there, my name is Lauren Mayberry! I am LPC Associate 89101 in the state of Texas, and I am supervised by Mariah J. Tailleur, LPC Supervisor 66631. At the University of North Texas, I received both my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology in 2019 and my Master’s degree in Counseling in 2022. I have spent the last 4 years serving children 10+, teens and adults regarding a multitude of concerns.
Hi there, my name is Lauren Mayberry! I am LPC Associate 89101 in the state of Texas, and I am supervised by Mariah J. Tailleur, LPC Supervisor 66631. At the University of North Texas, I received both my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology in 2019 and my Master’s degree in Counseling in 2022. I have spent the last 4 years serving children 10+, teens and adults regarding a multitude of concerns.
(682) 356-4598 View (682) 356-4598
Photo of Stacie Goran, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stacie Goran
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Killeen, TX 76549
I know how hard it can be to reach out and ask for help! I love to be the non-judgmental, curious, and client-centered person that is there to lift you up and make sense of how things are going in your life. Seeing lives change and people fall in love with themselves and their life again is my absolute favorite thing. We all need a helping hand at times. Don't hesitate to reach out and make your life what you want it to be.
I know how hard it can be to reach out and ask for help! I love to be the non-judgmental, curious, and client-centered person that is there to lift you up and make sense of how things are going in your life. Seeing lives change and people fall in love with themselves and their life again is my absolute favorite thing. We all need a helping hand at times. Don't hesitate to reach out and make your life what you want it to be.
(409) 219-5378 View (409) 219-5378
Photo of Dr. Diann Sanford Licensed Psychologist, PsyD, LPC, LP, Psychologist
Dr. Diann Sanford Licensed Psychologist
Psychologist, PsyD, LPC, LP
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75024
Are you experiencing increased stress or or hopelessness? Are you feeling disconnected and alone? Are you facing serious relationship issues that require help? Are the demands overwhelming? We can work together in person or on-line via video conferencing, teletherapy. Compassionately, we will develop treatment methods to fit your circumstances. We will confront destructive patterns such as: harmful choices, anger outbursts, negativity, codependency or fears of abandonment. Through the use of positive, solution focused therapies we will build on your strengths, thus empowering you to heal from the inside - out.
Are you experiencing increased stress or or hopelessness? Are you feeling disconnected and alone? Are you facing serious relationship issues that require help? Are the demands overwhelming? We can work together in person or on-line via video conferencing, teletherapy. Compassionately, we will develop treatment methods to fit your circumstances. We will confront destructive patterns such as: harmful choices, anger outbursts, negativity, codependency or fears of abandonment. Through the use of positive, solution focused therapies we will build on your strengths, thus empowering you to heal from the inside - out.
(214) 428-6069 View (214) 428-6069
Photo of Tiffany McConnell - Tiffany McConnell (Neighbors Counseling), MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tiffany McConnell (Neighbors Counseling)
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Denton, TX 76201
Therapy is a powerful tool to find healing and create a life worth living. I believe you are the expert in your own life and my goal is to partner with you in the journey to excavate your own inner wisdom. I conduct therapy from an eclectic approach, utilizing emotionally focused, cognitive and dialectical behavior therapy to understand processes and thought patterns that keep you stuck and to empower you with skills to manage distressing symptoms. We will then take a deeper dive to explore and heal from the root causes of your distressing symptoms and patterns.
Therapy is a powerful tool to find healing and create a life worth living. I believe you are the expert in your own life and my goal is to partner with you in the journey to excavate your own inner wisdom. I conduct therapy from an eclectic approach, utilizing emotionally focused, cognitive and dialectical behavior therapy to understand processes and thought patterns that keep you stuck and to empower you with skills to manage distressing symptoms. We will then take a deeper dive to explore and heal from the root causes of your distressing symptoms and patterns.
(817) 383-8149 View (817) 383-8149
Photo of Terri Lynn Parker, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Terri Lynn Parker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Denton, TX 76201  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I treat all clients with positive regard and compassion. Utilization of treatment modalities to best suit the client and their presenting problems is carefully thought out. I will assist in identifying sources of feelings of despair, loneliness, loss, unresolved guilt, fear, and anger .I am also a licensed clinical supervisor for Social Workers pursuing their LCSW.
I treat all clients with positive regard and compassion. Utilization of treatment modalities to best suit the client and their presenting problems is carefully thought out. I will assist in identifying sources of feelings of despair, loneliness, loss, unresolved guilt, fear, and anger .I am also a licensed clinical supervisor for Social Workers pursuing their LCSW.
(940) 304-0103 View (940) 304-0103
Photo of Rosanna Sanchez, MS, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rosanna Sanchez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richardson, TX 75080  (Online Only)
Accepting new clients. Free phone consult or email me. $99 for 45min sessions. Let's work on new goals to better our lives. Attending counseling should not be difficult and I offer an easy, flexible way to log on our sessions. In my experience a balance of guidance, education and homework assignments can help a client make progress at their pace. I like to have a good relationship with my clients and their needs are important to me. In my experience this allows for a better relationship and a better outcome in the therapeutic process.
Accepting new clients. Free phone consult or email me. $99 for 45min sessions. Let's work on new goals to better our lives. Attending counseling should not be difficult and I offer an easy, flexible way to log on our sessions. In my experience a balance of guidance, education and homework assignments can help a client make progress at their pace. I like to have a good relationship with my clients and their needs are important to me. In my experience this allows for a better relationship and a better outcome in the therapeutic process.
(469) 481-1187 View (469) 481-1187
Photo of LaQuetta Dawson, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
LaQuetta Dawson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76134  (Online Only)
As we navigate through the roller coaster of life and the complexities that relationships can bring, we will not walk away unaffected. I strongly believe that “silence kills,” and facing our issues by talking about them, is the only way to resolve them. As a licensed marriage and family therapist, my goal is to encourage and support individuals, couples, adolescents and families to increase personal awareness, strengths, and connection with others. Together, we will unravel the knots in your soul and the splinters in your mind.
As we navigate through the roller coaster of life and the complexities that relationships can bring, we will not walk away unaffected. I strongly believe that “silence kills,” and facing our issues by talking about them, is the only way to resolve them. As a licensed marriage and family therapist, my goal is to encourage and support individuals, couples, adolescents and families to increase personal awareness, strengths, and connection with others. Together, we will unravel the knots in your soul and the splinters in your mind.
(281) 957-3790 View (281) 957-3790
Photo of James Manuel, PsyD, Psychologist
James Manuel
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Mansfield, TX 76063
Greetings. I am a general practitioner with 20 years of experience providing psychological services. My training and practice covers the human life span. Individuals, couples, and Families are welcome. I use a unique, innovative, culturally appropriate approach that is based on best practices derived from empirical and qualitative research. With all my clients, I seek to help them pursue the full unfolding of their true self, and close the gap between their present reality and their ideal. Making changes can be difficult, but I want to congratulate you on taking the first step.
Greetings. I am a general practitioner with 20 years of experience providing psychological services. My training and practice covers the human life span. Individuals, couples, and Families are welcome. I use a unique, innovative, culturally appropriate approach that is based on best practices derived from empirical and qualitative research. With all my clients, I seek to help them pursue the full unfolding of their true self, and close the gap between their present reality and their ideal. Making changes can be difficult, but I want to congratulate you on taking the first step.
(469) 300-5087 View (469) 300-5087

See more therapy options for Cleburne

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.