Therapists in McKinney, TX
![Photo of Barbara Crump, LPC-S, LMFT, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6b0594b1-8807-444c-9013-288b43a85210/2/320x400.jpeg)
Barbara Crump
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
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.
![Photo of Nancy Lownds, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3368f545-b460-446c-b26e-9a46356cee92/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of David L. Falkstein - David L. Falkstein, Ph.D., & Associates, PhD, LSSP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cea4020-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/5/320x400.jpeg)
David L. Falkstein, Ph.D., & Associates
Psychologist, PhD, LSSP
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070
We have expertise in the areas of ADHD, depression, anxiety, Autism/Aspergers, dyslexia, learning disabilities, and emotional/behavioral disorders (anxiety, depression, Oppositional Defiant, and Bipolar Disorder).
Dr. Falkstein has a clinical team that works with him that includes several other psychologists and therapists. We offer evaluation services and therapy services to children, adolescents, and adults. Dr. Falkstein has worked in the mental health field since 1988 and has conducted several thousand evaluations over the past 25 years. Unlike most psychologists, Dr. Falkstein has experience and knowledge as a psychologist in private practice and as a school psychologist actually working in the schools.
We have expertise in the areas of ADHD, depression, anxiety, Autism/Aspergers, dyslexia, learning disabilities, and emotional/behavioral disorders (anxiety, depression, Oppositional Defiant, and Bipolar Disorder).
Dr. Falkstein has a clinical team that works with him that includes several other psychologists and therapists. We offer evaluation services and therapy services to children, adolescents, and adults. Dr. Falkstein has worked in the mental health field since 1988 and has conducted several thousand evaluations over the past 25 years. Unlike most psychologists, Dr. Falkstein has experience and knowledge as a psychologist in private practice and as a school psychologist actually working in the schools.
![Photo of JoAngeli Z Kasper, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2b1e7b35-b2c5-43ca-b7ef-1185cf27ae7f/1/320x400.jpeg)
JoAngeli Z Kasper
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75070 (Online Only)
These challenges may include managing chronic mental illnesses like bipolar disorder, anxiety, or depression; dealing with sexual or physical abuse and neglect; or navigating family crises, such as supporting an LGBTQ teen.
As a first-generation Latinx, Mexican American woman, I have struggled, fought, and overcome many challenges, and I consider it a privilege to assist others on their journeys. Everyone needs someone who "breathes life" into them, offering affirmation, understanding, and connection, especially when dealing with intimate issues. I work with individuals and families facing various challenges, including school, work, relationships, and crises of faith, with a special focus on those who have endured traumatic experiences, whether adults or children.
These challenges may include managing chronic mental illnesses like bipolar disorder, anxiety, or depression; dealing with sexual or physical abuse and neglect; or navigating family crises, such as supporting an LGBTQ teen.
As a first-generation Latinx, Mexican American woman, I have struggled, fought, and overcome many challenges, and I consider it a privilege to assist others on their journeys. Everyone needs someone who "breathes life" into them, offering affirmation, understanding, and connection, especially when dealing with intimate issues. I work with individuals and families facing various challenges, including school, work, relationships, and crises of faith, with a special focus on those who have endured traumatic experiences, whether adults or children.
![Photo of Jennifer Brobst, PhD, LSSP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cbc29ab-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and a Licensed Specialist in School Psychology. I love working with adults, teenagers, children, and families. I have experience helping patients with depression, anxiety, bipolar, autism and other developmental disabilities, OCD, ADHD, family concerns, parenting stress, career and academic concerns, as well as traumatic experiences. In addition, I have extensive experience in grief therapy during times of loss, such as in a time of death, divorce, and other significant life changes. I also enjoy working on goals of self-improvement, self-awareness, and compassion with my patients.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and a Licensed Specialist in School Psychology. I love working with adults, teenagers, children, and families. I have experience helping patients with depression, anxiety, bipolar, autism and other developmental disabilities, OCD, ADHD, family concerns, parenting stress, career and academic concerns, as well as traumatic experiences. In addition, I have extensive experience in grief therapy during times of loss, such as in a time of death, divorce, and other significant life changes. I also enjoy working on goals of self-improvement, self-awareness, and compassion with my patients.
![Photo of Krystal Wurm, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51c0a1f4-4cd7-4aa0-a789-ca0b084edbc7/5/320x400.jpeg)
Krystal Wurm
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75069 (Online Only)
My clients have successfully overcome or depression, anxiety, OCD, trauma, marital stress, parent-child difficulties, domestic violence, substance abuse, bipolar disorder, and anger issues.
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 background in teaching and learning strategies as an educator and therapist help you to achieve your goals quickly and effectively. I use a non-judgemental approach in therapy that utilizes active listening in order to better understand your needs. My goal is to work on your treatment plan and goals in a way that does not cause dependency on me as the therapist but independence in your thoughts and behaviors. It is common for cli
My clients have successfully overcome or depression, anxiety, OCD, trauma, marital stress, parent-child difficulties, domestic violence, substance abuse, bipolar disorder, and anger issues.
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 background in teaching and learning strategies as an educator and therapist help you to achieve your goals quickly and effectively. I use a non-judgemental approach in therapy that utilizes active listening in order to better understand your needs. My goal is to work on your treatment plan and goals in a way that does not cause dependency on me as the therapist but independence in your thoughts and behaviors. It is common for cli
![Photo of Brittany Harp - Sharp Wellness, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fe56abe5-01a1-42ae-a9cf-e82282b36b02/1/320x400.png)
Sharp Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75070
We have multiple therapists accepting New Clients! Sharp Wellness works with high-functioning adults and adolescents ready to live their best lives. We see a wide variety of clients, but we specialize in Anxiety/ Stress Management, Depression/Sadness, Couples, Grief and Loss, Life Transitions, Millennials, Women's Issues, Parenting Stressors, and Self-Esteem.
We have multiple therapists accepting New Clients! Sharp Wellness works with high-functioning adults and adolescents ready to live their best lives. We see a wide variety of clients, but we specialize in Anxiety/ Stress Management, Depression/Sadness, Couples, Grief and Loss, Life Transitions, Millennials, Women's Issues, Parenting Stressors, and Self-Esteem.
![Photo of Loren Gibson, MA, LMFTS, LPCS, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5505f7cb-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Loren Gibson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFTS, LPCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75070
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist and a licensed professional counselor. I have over 10 years experience working with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families suffering from various issues including depression, anxiety, anger, communication issues, conflict resolution, divorce, couples issues, parenting struggles, trauma including sexual abuse, and life's many transitions. WIth my specific training in family systems, my focus is on how our relationships with others impact us daily.I am also a certified facilitator of PREPARE-ENRICH Marital Assessment which has been shown to increase your chances of marital success for marital and premarital couples.
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist and a licensed professional counselor. I have over 10 years experience working with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families suffering from various issues including depression, anxiety, anger, communication issues, conflict resolution, divorce, couples issues, parenting struggles, trauma including sexual abuse, and life's many transitions. WIth my specific training in family systems, my focus is on how our relationships with others impact us daily.I am also a certified facilitator of PREPARE-ENRICH Marital Assessment which has been shown to increase your chances of marital success for marital and premarital couples.
![Photo of Angela Tucker, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bad0f689-81c6-4d08-aa6a-78d44797284d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Angela Tucker
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75070 (Online Only)
Life can often present challenges that leave us feeling alone, disconnected, or overwhelmed. However, I firmly believe that everyone deserves support and guidance during difficult times. My expertise lies in assisting individuals facing depression, anxiety, grief, and loss, as well as those seeking help with stress management, relationship issues, and transitions in life stages. Whether you're navigating relationship issues, coping with stress and anxiety, or seeking personal growth, I am here to offer you a safe space for healing and transformation.
Life can often present challenges that leave us feeling alone, disconnected, or overwhelmed. However, I firmly believe that everyone deserves support and guidance during difficult times. My expertise lies in assisting individuals facing depression, anxiety, grief, and loss, as well as those seeking help with stress management, relationship issues, and transitions in life stages. Whether you're navigating relationship issues, coping with stress and anxiety, or seeking personal growth, I am here to offer you a safe space for healing and transformation.
![Photo of Dr. Charette Dersch, PhD, LMFT-S, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52e9929e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Charette Dersch
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75072 (Online Only)
I provide a safe and caring environment for individuals, couples and families to address a variety of personal and relationship issues. I have great respect for the inner resources of my clients and work in a collaborative way to assist them in the process of discovering solutions. My treatment approach is to provide support and practical feedback to help clients resolve current problems and long-standing patterns.
I provide a safe and caring environment for individuals, couples and families to address a variety of personal and relationship issues. I have great respect for the inner resources of my clients and work in a collaborative way to assist them in the process of discovering solutions. My treatment approach is to provide support and practical feedback to help clients resolve current problems and long-standing patterns.
![Photo of Trista L Jones - Trista L. Jones, LPC-S, NCC, CCPS, CST, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4590d942-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Trista is passionate about sexual health and wellness. She is eclectic in her treatment style working from a person-centered approach to develop strategies for personal growth, healing and hope. Trista believes in the psychosocial care of her clients, as we address immediate presenting issues and gain a better understanding of any deeper-rooted sources of suffering we can foster healthy growth, restoration and change within self and relationships. There is hope. Through a collaborative, therapeutic relationship, improving your quality of life, from YOUR perspective, is her ultimate goal.
Trista is passionate about sexual health and wellness. She is eclectic in her treatment style working from a person-centered approach to develop strategies for personal growth, healing and hope. Trista believes in the psychosocial care of her clients, as we address immediate presenting issues and gain a better understanding of any deeper-rooted sources of suffering we can foster healthy growth, restoration and change within self and relationships. There is hope. Through a collaborative, therapeutic relationship, improving your quality of life, from YOUR perspective, is her ultimate goal.
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![Photo of Jodi McKee, MA, LPC-S, ATR-BC, MBA, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/900dba0a-60df-44ee-9e53-7aece2210dc7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jodi McKee
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, ATR-BC, MBA
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070
Are you interested in self-development and personal growth? Are you tired of repeating dysfunctional patterns in your life? Are you ready to become the main character of your story? I'd love to walk with you on this journey and help remove any obstacles in your way. I have over 20 years of experience helping children, teens, adults, and families find mental wellness. I am a Board-Certified Registered Art Therapist and a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor, and I believe in the power of art therapy as an efficient and effective tool for healing.
Are you interested in self-development and personal growth? Are you tired of repeating dysfunctional patterns in your life? Are you ready to become the main character of your story? I'd love to walk with you on this journey and help remove any obstacles in your way. I have over 20 years of experience helping children, teens, adults, and families find mental wellness. I am a Board-Certified Registered Art Therapist and a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor, and I believe in the power of art therapy as an efficient and effective tool for healing.
![Photo of Lauren Gross Rumpel, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/90bc5e8b-318e-4e3f-8204-08c82a4ac821/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lauren Gross Rumpel
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75069
You can get your life back! You don't have to stay stuck! We can use eye movements and voluntary image replacement to keep the facts but erase the negative feelings using ART! I have a passion for helping divorced clients, military personnel along with their families, and couples struggling in their marriage. I help people who are Christian and non-Christian alike find hope and healing!
You can get your life back! You don't have to stay stuck! We can use eye movements and voluntary image replacement to keep the facts but erase the negative feelings using ART! I have a passion for helping divorced clients, military personnel along with their families, and couples struggling in their marriage. I help people who are Christian and non-Christian alike find hope and healing!
![Photo of Gloria Howell, MA, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3bd4db8d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Gloria Howell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070 (Online Only)
Are you struggling in your relationship to find a communication style that creates more intimacy and closeness? Are you depressed and unhappy and cannot find a way out to happiness and inner peace? I see my role as assisting you in understanding your challenges.I assist clients in achieving their goals in becoming emotionally, and physically healthy individuals.
Are you struggling in your relationship to find a communication style that creates more intimacy and closeness? Are you depressed and unhappy and cannot find a way out to happiness and inner peace? I see my role as assisting you in understanding your challenges.I assist clients in achieving their goals in becoming emotionally, and physically healthy individuals.
![Photo of Phillip e Morris - McKinney Neuropsychology, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40a03162-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Our highly-trained and passionate staff consists of licensed psychologists, Dr. Phillip E. Morris, Dr. Kristy Money, Dr. Sue Han, Dr. Martika Jones, and Licensed Professional Counselor Jennifer Deliganis. We have Unlicensed Dr. Vesha Wallace and Dr. Michelle McNally. We provide psychological testing, neuropsychological evaluations, and consultation services.
Our highly-trained and passionate staff consists of licensed psychologists, Dr. Phillip E. Morris, Dr. Kristy Money, Dr. Sue Han, Dr. Martika Jones, and Licensed Professional Counselor Jennifer Deliganis. We have Unlicensed Dr. Vesha Wallace and Dr. Michelle McNally. We provide psychological testing, neuropsychological evaluations, and consultation services.
![Photo of Emily Pennington, MMFT, LMFT-S, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52181768-e98d-431d-8212-aade68f6d642/3/320x400.jpeg)
Emily Pennington
Marriage & Family Therapist, MMFT, LMFT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75070
I specialize in working with adolescents and adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, social anxiety, low self-esteem, trauma, work stress, friendship struggles, or dating/relationship struggles. I have such a heart for working with these issues! I, myself, have struggled with anxiety, and I am so passionate about helping clients navigate that challenge. I have seen countless times the powerful change that can happen in clients’ lives after working through these struggles, and I would love to work with you on beginning a new chapter of life that is full of confidence, growth, and positive change.
I specialize in working with adolescents and adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, social anxiety, low self-esteem, trauma, work stress, friendship struggles, or dating/relationship struggles. I have such a heart for working with these issues! I, myself, have struggled with anxiety, and I am so passionate about helping clients navigate that challenge. I have seen countless times the powerful change that can happen in clients’ lives after working through these struggles, and I would love to work with you on beginning a new chapter of life that is full of confidence, growth, and positive change.
![Photo of Paul Allen Shearer, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b32e067d-c9d5-4467-b020-51c2d9699cd8/1/320x400.jpeg)
From my heart to your heart - to the heart of the matter. Whether its trauma, abuse, abandonment, grief, addiction, or the end of a significant relationship, we all have unfinished business to sort through. Individuals usually know what to do when they enter into therapy, but anxiety, fear, depression, and maladaptive patterns of coping keep them stuck in repetitive cycles of unhappiness. More than a diagnosis, you are a human being hoping to reclaim that better part of yourself. Through guidance in a nurturing environment, personal growth and self acceptance are possible.
From my heart to your heart - to the heart of the matter. Whether its trauma, abuse, abandonment, grief, addiction, or the end of a significant relationship, we all have unfinished business to sort through. Individuals usually know what to do when they enter into therapy, but anxiety, fear, depression, and maladaptive patterns of coping keep them stuck in repetitive cycles of unhappiness. More than a diagnosis, you are a human being hoping to reclaim that better part of yourself. Through guidance in a nurturing environment, personal growth and self acceptance are possible.
![Photo of Jami Wampler, LMSW](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/112f0289-2f7a-493c-8fa0-1ddc75e9c184/1/320x400.jpeg)
It is my goal to provide a safe, non-judgmental, explorative space for my clients to feel empowered in their journey of self-discovery and healing. I believe in meeting people where they are at, working from a strengths-based approach, and developing treatment plans that are collaborative and attainable. Whether you have chronic mental health issues, past traumatic experiences that you are grappling with, or facing major life transitions, I believe that all people have the capacity to change and find coping strategies that enhance their overall well-being.
It is my goal to provide a safe, non-judgmental, explorative space for my clients to feel empowered in their journey of self-discovery and healing. I believe in meeting people where they are at, working from a strengths-based approach, and developing treatment plans that are collaborative and attainable. Whether you have chronic mental health issues, past traumatic experiences that you are grappling with, or facing major life transitions, I believe that all people have the capacity to change and find coping strategies that enhance their overall well-being.
![Photo of Victoria Mercado, MA, LPC-S, RYT-200, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/853a85fe-c99b-4f9d-b71f-eb2b84b9d6f7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Victoria Mercado
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, RYT-200
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75069
As a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor in Texas, I bring expertise rooted in a Master's Degree in Counseling from St. Edwards University. My journey includes extensive experience in supporting individuals facing trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, women's issues, and grief. Specializing in EMDR and IFS, I offer proven methods for trauma healing and related challenges. Throughout my career, I've drawn from personal experiences to craft personalized treatment plans for each client. My commitment is to stand alongside you, bearing witness to your journey and guiding you toward your unique goals.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor in Texas, I bring expertise rooted in a Master's Degree in Counseling from St. Edwards University. My journey includes extensive experience in supporting individuals facing trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, women's issues, and grief. Specializing in EMDR and IFS, I offer proven methods for trauma healing and related challenges. Throughout my career, I've drawn from personal experiences to craft personalized treatment plans for each client. My commitment is to stand alongside you, bearing witness to your journey and guiding you toward your unique goals.
![Photo of Mara Yachimski](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/99d69a1d-4ad8-4bd5-a726-ef9c8800d5af/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mara Yachimski
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75069
Do you struggle with unresolved trauma that affects your ability to connect with others? Do you feel overlooked by those who don't seem to "get it"? Do you wonder if being happy should be easier? Now more than ever people find themselves feeling lost and detached, as if they don't fit in with the rest of the world. I believe you are more powerful than you know. At Village Counseling, I offer an empowering experience for my clients.
Do you struggle with unresolved trauma that affects your ability to connect with others? Do you feel overlooked by those who don't seem to "get it"? Do you wonder if being happy should be easier? Now more than ever people find themselves feeling lost and detached, as if they don't fit in with the rest of the world. I believe you are more powerful than you know. At Village Counseling, I offer an empowering experience for my clients.
See more therapy options for McKinney
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.