Photo of Julie Delene Penix - Garland Counseling Center, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Garland Counseling Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Fairview, TX 75069
Stressed, overwhelmed, or depressed? You may be burned out from dealing with the same problem for years; you may be overwhelmed with problems from all sides; or you may be facing a new, life-changing situation and have no idea how to deal with it. Most people have coping skills to manage one predictable problem that can be resolved, but many struggle when facing multiple problems or a life-changing problem. Delene Penix, LPC is an experienced, caring, and straight-forward counselor who is here to support you through hard times and teach you new coping skills when faced with new and challenging situations.
Stressed, overwhelmed, or depressed? You may be burned out from dealing with the same problem for years; you may be overwhelmed with problems from all sides; or you may be facing a new, life-changing situation and have no idea how to deal with it. Most people have coping skills to manage one predictable problem that can be resolved, but many struggle when facing multiple problems or a life-changing problem. Delene Penix, LPC is an experienced, caring, and straight-forward counselor who is here to support you through hard times and teach you new coping skills when faced with new and challenging situations.
(469) 331-4706 View (469) 331-4706

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Kimberly Wilson, NMD, LPC, LMFT, LCDC, LMTI, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Kimberly Wilson
Licensed Professional Counselor, NMD, LPC, LMFT, LCDC, LMTI
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070
lifestyle/wellness / chronic pain/illness/cancer/insomnia / OCD/tics/hairpulling/skin picking / infidelity/sex therapy/sexuality / addiction recovery / bipolar/anxiety/depression / serious mental illness kimberlywilsonnmd.
I help those of all ages, families and individuals, with complex physical, mental, or emotional struggles. You do not have to be consumed by mental or physical pain. We will work through the unhealthy patterns in your life and give a new outlook and way to approach things. You deserve a naturally balanced and well life, mind, and body. You deserve the best care! You deserve to make sense of what is going on in your life and understand what is going on in your mind and body, so that you can overcome your challenges. Let's move forward today. kimberlywilsonnmd.com
lifestyle/wellness / chronic pain/illness/cancer/insomnia / OCD/tics/hairpulling/skin picking / infidelity/sex therapy/sexuality / addiction recovery / bipolar/anxiety/depression / serious mental illness kimberlywilsonnmd.
I help those of all ages, families and individuals, with complex physical, mental, or emotional struggles. You do not have to be consumed by mental or physical pain. We will work through the unhealthy patterns in your life and give a new outlook and way to approach things. You deserve a naturally balanced and well life, mind, and body. You deserve the best care! You deserve to make sense of what is going on in your life and understand what is going on in your mind and body, so that you can overcome your challenges. Let's move forward today. kimberlywilsonnmd.com
(972) 848-5290 View (972) 848-5290
Photo of Catherine Bolotte, MEd
Catherine Bolotte
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MEd
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75071
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in the state of Texas supervised by Heidi Johanson LPC-S. I have a Masters in Counseling Education from the University of New Orleans. In my counseling experience, I have had the opportunity to work with adolescents and adults struggling with complex trauma and PTSD, domestic violence, bipolar disorder, ADHD, gender/sexual identity, and depression. I am also trained in Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) for OCD, phobias, and severe anxiety, as well as Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) which is highly effective in treating trauma and PTSD.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in the state of Texas supervised by Heidi Johanson LPC-S. I have a Masters in Counseling Education from the University of New Orleans. In my counseling experience, I have had the opportunity to work with adolescents and adults struggling with complex trauma and PTSD, domestic violence, bipolar disorder, ADHD, gender/sexual identity, and depression. I am also trained in Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) for OCD, phobias, and severe anxiety, as well as Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) which is highly effective in treating trauma and PTSD.
(817) 241-5894 View (817) 241-5894
Photo of Sabah Ali, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sabah Ali
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Bonham, TX 75418
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.
(817) 809-3245 View (817) 809-3245
Photo of Cheryl Harumi, PhD, Psychologist
Cheryl Harumi
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75070
Not accepting new clients
Sometimes life can feel overwhelming. Pressures from work, problems in your relationships, negative emotions, or physical illness can interfere with your ability to enjoy life or be your best self. I am here to help. I strive to create a warm and supportive environment in which you can feel safe to fully explore your thoughts and feelings. I will take a positive approach to help you build on your existing strengths while also expanding your abilities to cope with life's challenges, reduce stress, improve your relationships with self and others, and enhance your overall quality of life.
Sometimes life can feel overwhelming. Pressures from work, problems in your relationships, negative emotions, or physical illness can interfere with your ability to enjoy life or be your best self. I am here to help. I strive to create a warm and supportive environment in which you can feel safe to fully explore your thoughts and feelings. I will take a positive approach to help you build on your existing strengths while also expanding your abilities to cope with life's challenges, reduce stress, improve your relationships with self and others, and enhance your overall quality of life.
(469) 331-4737 View (469) 331-4737
Photo of Victoria Zhang, MS, NCC
Victoria Zhang
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75072
One of the hardest decisions in life is to seek help. We all encounter challenges and/or disadvantages at some point, and it is easy to feel discouraged and criticize yourself in this process. Although these difficulties can affect you in profound ways, I believe that they are also opportunities to learn about your inner world and reflect upon what is working and what is not. This journey is quite exhausting for one person, so I aim to become a part of your support system. I hope to empower each individual to make personal choices that will allow them to discover confidence, direction, happiness, peace, and healing.
One of the hardest decisions in life is to seek help. We all encounter challenges and/or disadvantages at some point, and it is easy to feel discouraged and criticize yourself in this process. Although these difficulties can affect you in profound ways, I believe that they are also opportunities to learn about your inner world and reflect upon what is working and what is not. This journey is quite exhausting for one person, so I aim to become a part of your support system. I hope to empower each individual to make personal choices that will allow them to discover confidence, direction, happiness, peace, and healing.
(682) 800-5687 View (682) 800-5687
Photo of Dr. Justin Litvin, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Justin Litvin
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Melissa, TX 75454
Does your anxiety get in the way of doing things? Would you like to improve your relationships with a partner, family, friends, or coworkers? Do you feel down, unmotivated, or not as interested in things as you used to be? If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, there is hope! You are not alone in these experiences, and many people have changed their lives through therapy. Therapy is a journey that we take together. There are many paths we can choose from to go in the direction you desire. Everyone is different, and your path is tailored to your needs, preferences, and values.
Does your anxiety get in the way of doing things? Would you like to improve your relationships with a partner, family, friends, or coworkers? Do you feel down, unmotivated, or not as interested in things as you used to be? If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, there is hope! You are not alone in these experiences, and many people have changed their lives through therapy. Therapy is a journey that we take together. There are many paths we can choose from to go in the direction you desire. Everyone is different, and your path is tailored to your needs, preferences, and values.
(817) 396-7205 View (817) 396-7205
Photo of Hiba Khan, MSW, LMSW, LCDC, CCTP-II, CADC-II
Hiba Khan
Licensed Master Social Worker, MSW, LMSW, LCDC, CCTP-II, CADC-II
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Prosper, TX 75078
Being a trans, LGBTQIA+, poly-affirming psychotherapist, Hiba is passionate about creating a safe and non-judgmental space for her clients where they can explore themselves and their stories. She also provides culturally competent care for BIPOC communities with a specialization in Muslim, Asian, and Middle Eastern populations. Hiba specializes in working with individuals with substance use disorders, PTSD, C-PTSD, DID and other dissociative disorders, grief and loss, adjustment disorders, crisis management, and cultural/identity exploration.
Being a trans, LGBTQIA+, poly-affirming psychotherapist, Hiba is passionate about creating a safe and non-judgmental space for her clients where they can explore themselves and their stories. She also provides culturally competent care for BIPOC communities with a specialization in Muslim, Asian, and Middle Eastern populations. Hiba specializes in working with individuals with substance use disorders, PTSD, C-PTSD, DID and other dissociative disorders, grief and loss, adjustment disorders, crisis management, and cultural/identity exploration.
(512) 668-7080 View (512) 668-7080
Photo of Ryan Ross, MS
Ryan Ross
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75071
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in the state of Texas supervised by Heidi Johanson LPC-S, with a Masters Degree in Counseling from University of North Texas at Dallas. I have experience in treating domestic abuse issues, suicidal ideation, anxiety, life adjustment issues, and PTSD. I am also trained in Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), which is highly effective in treating OCD, phobias, and severe anxiety.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in the state of Texas supervised by Heidi Johanson LPC-S, with a Masters Degree in Counseling from University of North Texas at Dallas. I have experience in treating domestic abuse issues, suicidal ideation, anxiety, life adjustment issues, and PTSD. I am also trained in Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), which is highly effective in treating OCD, phobias, and severe anxiety.
(972) 526-5390 View (972) 526-5390
Photo of Lindsay Hinojosa, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lindsay Hinojosa
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75071
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas. I obtained my Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology from The University of Houston – Clear Lake, and my Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Texas A&M University. Whoop! Much of my experience has included treating adults struggling with complex PTSD, OCD, phobias, social anxiety, addiction, adult ADHD, and depression. Additionally, I have a passion for providing treatment to other helpers, such as first responders, veterans, social workers, counselors, nurses, doctors, teachers, and those who endlessly serve our communities.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas. I obtained my Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology from The University of Houston – Clear Lake, and my Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Texas A&M University. Whoop! Much of my experience has included treating adults struggling with complex PTSD, OCD, phobias, social anxiety, addiction, adult ADHD, and depression. Additionally, I have a passion for providing treatment to other helpers, such as first responders, veterans, social workers, counselors, nurses, doctors, teachers, and those who endlessly serve our communities.
(940) 548-7671 View (940) 548-7671
Photo of Dr. Tancy C. Horn Johnson Lcsw-S, EMDRCIT, SEP, DARTT, CEDS-C, TCTSY-F, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Tancy C. Horn Johnson Lcsw-S
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, EMDRCIT, SEP, DARTT, CEDS-C, TCTSY-F
Verified Verified
Allen, TX 75002
ERP Certified for OCD, EMDR-Consultant-In-Training; Accepting TX LMSW for LCSW Clinical Supervision; Accepting LCSW, LPC or LMFT in USA for Certified Eating Disorder Specialist (CEDS) with International Association of Eating Disorder Professionals (IAEDP). As a CEDS-C, I’m here to guide you in changing your relationship with food. For anyone ready to address past trauma experiences, I am use an eclectic approach, and may use the Healing Our Core Issues (HOCI) model, to examine family of origin trauma, the work of Jan Bergstrom, LMHC, SEP, DARTT, and Dr. Rick Butts, who were intensely trained by Pia Mellody/The Meadows.
ERP Certified for OCD, EMDR-Consultant-In-Training; Accepting TX LMSW for LCSW Clinical Supervision; Accepting LCSW, LPC or LMFT in USA for Certified Eating Disorder Specialist (CEDS) with International Association of Eating Disorder Professionals (IAEDP). As a CEDS-C, I’m here to guide you in changing your relationship with food. For anyone ready to address past trauma experiences, I am use an eclectic approach, and may use the Healing Our Core Issues (HOCI) model, to examine family of origin trauma, the work of Jan Bergstrom, LMHC, SEP, DARTT, and Dr. Rick Butts, who were intensely trained by Pia Mellody/The Meadows.
(254) 239-0784 View (254) 239-0784
Photo of Fran DeArman, LPC, LCDC, IC-ADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Fran DeArman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCDC, IC-ADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Allen, TX 75013
I know it might not feel like it at times, but being miserable is optional! Life is too short to spend it being stuck in that place... There IS hope, and making an appointment is a great step towards your new future. In addition to working with depression and anxiety, I specialize in helping clients with addictions, eating disorders, and self-harm issues break free from these destructive, but powerful patterns. If you can relate to being stuck in some (or all) of those, I can help! My years of clinical experience have allowed me to work with people of all ages, races, genders, body sizes, and sexual orientations.
I know it might not feel like it at times, but being miserable is optional! Life is too short to spend it being stuck in that place... There IS hope, and making an appointment is a great step towards your new future. In addition to working with depression and anxiety, I specialize in helping clients with addictions, eating disorders, and self-harm issues break free from these destructive, but powerful patterns. If you can relate to being stuck in some (or all) of those, I can help! My years of clinical experience have allowed me to work with people of all ages, races, genders, body sizes, and sexual orientations.
(214) 239-1578 View (214) 239-1578
Photo of Michelle Nietert - Community Counseling Associates, MA, LPC-S, CSC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Community Counseling Associates
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, CSC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Allen, TX 75002
Need help now? Call our caring staff today to discover how we can provide you solutions for life. Our team of counselors work together helping you with the most effective tools and resources possible! Our director has over 25 years of experience and a recognized national expert. We offer Solution Focused Counseling, CBT, & DBT interventions for adults, couples, children, teens, and families! If you or someone you love is struggling with depression, anxiety, marital issues, family conflict, grief, ADHD, trauma or other life challenges, we are here to provide a supportive, relaxing environment, and opportunities for change.
Need help now? Call our caring staff today to discover how we can provide you solutions for life. Our team of counselors work together helping you with the most effective tools and resources possible! Our director has over 25 years of experience and a recognized national expert. We offer Solution Focused Counseling, CBT, & DBT interventions for adults, couples, children, teens, and families! If you or someone you love is struggling with depression, anxiety, marital issues, family conflict, grief, ADHD, trauma or other life challenges, we are here to provide a supportive, relaxing environment, and opportunities for change.
(214) 919-5829 View (214) 919-5829
Photo of Candace David, LPC-S, LCDC, CEDS-C, EMDR, Trained, Licensed Professional Counselor
Candace David
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, LCDC, CEDS-C, EMDR, Trained
Verified Verified
Allen, TX 75013
Let's talk about why things are so hard. Why you're doing the same old thing day in and day out despite wanting to change. Why you're waking up and wishing that the pills you took the night before had actually worked. Why in spite of all the things you've done to try and recover from your eating disorder or addiction, you feel like you've made no progress. Let's get down to the root of things and face them head on; if you're ready to get to work, I'm ready to help you!
Let's talk about why things are so hard. Why you're doing the same old thing day in and day out despite wanting to change. Why you're waking up and wishing that the pills you took the night before had actually worked. Why in spite of all the things you've done to try and recover from your eating disorder or addiction, you feel like you've made no progress. Let's get down to the root of things and face them head on; if you're ready to get to work, I'm ready to help you!
(214) 256-4384 View (214) 256-4384
Photo of Jordan N. Suarez, MS, NCC, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jordan N. Suarez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75069
Sometimes we reach a season of life that we need a little help navigating, and the good news is that you do not have to do it alone. I truly believe in a collaborative counseling relationship that fosters encouragement and growth. I help clients get to the root of what is preventing them from living the life they desire and create a plan to overcome those hardships together. I offer an accepting, warm, judgement free environment that will allow us to explore your past, present and/or future to find the process that fits best for you. You are the expert on your own life and I am here to guide you through your journey.
Sometimes we reach a season of life that we need a little help navigating, and the good news is that you do not have to do it alone. I truly believe in a collaborative counseling relationship that fosters encouragement and growth. I help clients get to the root of what is preventing them from living the life they desire and create a plan to overcome those hardships together. I offer an accepting, warm, judgement free environment that will allow us to explore your past, present and/or future to find the process that fits best for you. You are the expert on your own life and I am here to guide you through your journey.
(469) 297-2168 View (469) 297-2168
Photo of Tiffany Bays - Holistic Psychotherapy & Wellness, MS, LPC, CMNCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Holistic Psychotherapy & Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CMNCS
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75071  (Online Only)
Tiffany believes therapy is not a one size fits all and that different approaches or modalities may work for a client or situation and not another. Her therapeutic interests include trauma, abuse, depression, anxiety, postpartum depression, personality disorders, relationships, Narcissistic Personality Abuse Awareness. She has a passion for helping others discover issues related to self worth, coping skills, boundaries, communication, shame, and assist the client in developing the tools necessary to improve such issues.
Tiffany believes therapy is not a one size fits all and that different approaches or modalities may work for a client or situation and not another. Her therapeutic interests include trauma, abuse, depression, anxiety, postpartum depression, personality disorders, relationships, Narcissistic Personality Abuse Awareness. She has a passion for helping others discover issues related to self worth, coping skills, boundaries, communication, shame, and assist the client in developing the tools necessary to improve such issues.
(940) 514-8540 View (940) 514-8540
Photo of Rebecca Houser - Blank Slate Therapy, Licensed Professional Counselor
Blank Slate Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070
We have the right therapist to meet your unique needs. With 35 licensed psychotherapists and four North Dallas locations, we specialize in changing lives. Offering a range of clinical services such as play therapy, adolescent therapy, individual adult counseling, couples therapy, family therapy, psychological testing and Teen DBT Group. Our clinicians are experts in treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, life transitions, addictions, trauma, OCD, grief, needs of gifted and talented, relationship concerns, self-harm, anger, guilt, divorce, identity concerns, perfectionism, behavior concerns, parenting, LGBTQIA+ concerns and more.
We have the right therapist to meet your unique needs. With 35 licensed psychotherapists and four North Dallas locations, we specialize in changing lives. Offering a range of clinical services such as play therapy, adolescent therapy, individual adult counseling, couples therapy, family therapy, psychological testing and Teen DBT Group. Our clinicians are experts in treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, life transitions, addictions, trauma, OCD, grief, needs of gifted and talented, relationship concerns, self-harm, anger, guilt, divorce, identity concerns, perfectionism, behavior concerns, parenting, LGBTQIA+ concerns and more.
(469) 632-8213 View (469) 632-8213
Photo of Heidi Johanson, MS, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Heidi Johanson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75071
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor in the state of Texas. I have a Masters Degree in Counseling from Southern Methodist University. I have experience in treating trauma, PTSD, OCD, depression, anxiety, Bi-polar disorder, addiction, life adjustment issues, personality disorders, gender/identity, family and relationship issues. Throughout my career I've had the opportunity to treat a diversified clientele that has shaped my ability to be understanding and accepting. I believe the therapeutic relationship is the most valuable aspect of the counseling experience.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor in the state of Texas. I have a Masters Degree in Counseling from Southern Methodist University. I have experience in treating trauma, PTSD, OCD, depression, anxiety, Bi-polar disorder, addiction, life adjustment issues, personality disorders, gender/identity, family and relationship issues. Throughout my career I've had the opportunity to treat a diversified clientele that has shaped my ability to be understanding and accepting. I believe the therapeutic relationship is the most valuable aspect of the counseling experience.
(682) 305-2787 View (682) 305-2787
Photo of Alyssa Rosales - Alyssa Rosales - Face Your Giants Counseling, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alyssa Rosales - Face Your Giants Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070  (Online Only)
Hi! My name is Alyssa Rosales and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I want to help people face the giants in their life. Do you feel like your emotions control your life or like your emotions are out to get you? Do you feel like your relationships are suffering due to perpetual conflict, trouble maintaining boundaries or lacking communication skills? Does your past trauma keep getting in the way of the life you want to live or the person you want to be? Are you struggling to know who you are or what your purpose is? Does life feel overwhelming or out of your control?
Hi! My name is Alyssa Rosales and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I want to help people face the giants in their life. Do you feel like your emotions control your life or like your emotions are out to get you? Do you feel like your relationships are suffering due to perpetual conflict, trouble maintaining boundaries or lacking communication skills? Does your past trauma keep getting in the way of the life you want to live or the person you want to be? Are you struggling to know who you are or what your purpose is? Does life feel overwhelming or out of your control?
(972) 244-3064 View (972) 244-3064
Photo of Matt W Wolff, MS, LPC, NCC, CCATP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Matt W Wolff
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, CCATP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75069  (Online Only)
As a licensed professional counselor in practice for almost a decade, I am trained and qualified to treat individuals dealing with most mental health and emotional disorders, but I specialize in anxiety and related difficulties, such as depression and obsessive-compulsive disorder. I am a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional (Cert. no. 902544). I have worked extensively with adolescents and adults dealing with the traumatic aftermath of emotionally and physically abusive family environments. I also work with a good number of artists, musicians and other creative types.
As a licensed professional counselor in practice for almost a decade, I am trained and qualified to treat individuals dealing with most mental health and emotional disorders, but I specialize in anxiety and related difficulties, such as depression and obsessive-compulsive disorder. I am a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional (Cert. no. 902544). I have worked extensively with adolescents and adults dealing with the traumatic aftermath of emotionally and physically abusive family environments. I also work with a good number of artists, musicians and other creative types.
(972) 542-8144 View (972) 542-8144

See more therapy options for Fairview

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.