Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Porter, TX

Photo of Lorena Abitante, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lorena Abitante
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Porter, TX 77365
I'm experienced working with stress management, Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, anxiety, feelings of suicide, psychotic disorders/psychosis, family issues, trauma, and child abuse/neglect, including sexual abuse.
Allow me to assist you in the change process by both of us looking at your thinking &how it affects you. I feel passionate about working with those who have experienced trauma, loss, abuse/neglect, as well as those who are living with mental illness, including struggling teens & ones with onset of mental illness. I believe in empowering people to process loss, reach goals, develop self-esteem, and improve functioning in a supportive, safe environment.I have gained experience working in both an in-patient and an out-patient psychiatric hospital setting, the Children's Protective Services system, group private practice, and a prison.
I'm experienced working with stress management, Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, anxiety, feelings of suicide, psychotic disorders/psychosis, family issues, trauma, and child abuse/neglect, including sexual abuse.
Allow me to assist you in the change process by both of us looking at your thinking &how it affects you. I feel passionate about working with those who have experienced trauma, loss, abuse/neglect, as well as those who are living with mental illness, including struggling teens & ones with onset of mental illness. I believe in empowering people to process loss, reach goals, develop self-esteem, and improve functioning in a supportive, safe environment.I have gained experience working in both an in-patient and an out-patient psychiatric hospital setting, the Children's Protective Services system, group private practice, and a prison.
(281) 888-0134 View (281) 888-0134
Photo of Jasmine Trachelle Groves, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jasmine Trachelle Groves
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Porter, TX 77365
What an amazing day to heal! Allow me to help you achieve the life you are entitled to and deserve. We all carry baggage and experience ongoing day-to-day stressors that can make the future seem unattainable. Now is the time to put your life into perspective and get back on track. I have experience working with individuals, adolescents, and adolescent groups. Most issues presented to me in therapy include relational and vocational stressors, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, anger management, impulse control issues, self-harm, inattention/focusing problems, bipolar disorder, grief/loss, post traumatic stress, and substance abuse.
What an amazing day to heal! Allow me to help you achieve the life you are entitled to and deserve. We all carry baggage and experience ongoing day-to-day stressors that can make the future seem unattainable. Now is the time to put your life into perspective and get back on track. I have experience working with individuals, adolescents, and adolescent groups. Most issues presented to me in therapy include relational and vocational stressors, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, anger management, impulse control issues, self-harm, inattention/focusing problems, bipolar disorder, grief/loss, post traumatic stress, and substance abuse.
(832) 905-8860 View (832) 905-8860
Photo of Kayla Jackson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kayla Jackson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Porter, TX 77365
I have worked with concerns/diagnoses including: grief/loss, trauma, stress/anger management, family/relationship conflicts, social skills, depression, suicidal ideation, anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, and intellectual disabilities.
I try to create a safe, comfortable, and supportive environment for you to express yourself and help you reach your personal goals. There's no magic pill I can give you, but we can work together so you can develop the tools and coping skills you need to overcome obstacles and maximize your potential to make healthy choices and live the most fulfilling life possible.
I have worked with concerns/diagnoses including: grief/loss, trauma, stress/anger management, family/relationship conflicts, social skills, depression, suicidal ideation, anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, and intellectual disabilities.
I try to create a safe, comfortable, and supportive environment for you to express yourself and help you reach your personal goals. There's no magic pill I can give you, but we can work together so you can develop the tools and coping skills you need to overcome obstacles and maximize your potential to make healthy choices and live the most fulfilling life possible.
(832) 981-6227 View (832) 981-6227
Photo of Chrissy Wagner, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chrissy Wagner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Porter, TX 77365
My name is Christine (Chrissy) Wagner, and I am a licensed clinical social worker in Texas. I have a master's degree in social work, licensed clinical social work. I have over 30 years of social and human service experience in family and child welfare. I have worked with Hospice patients and families and worked with group therapy and individual therapy. I work with adults and specialize in aging, grief/loss, anxiety, depression, and inner conflict, using cognitive behavioral therapy, strength-based and emotion-focused therapy.
My name is Christine (Chrissy) Wagner, and I am a licensed clinical social worker in Texas. I have a master's degree in social work, licensed clinical social work. I have over 30 years of social and human service experience in family and child welfare. I have worked with Hospice patients and families and worked with group therapy and individual therapy. I work with adults and specialize in aging, grief/loss, anxiety, depression, and inner conflict, using cognitive behavioral therapy, strength-based and emotion-focused therapy.
(281) 942-4298 View (281) 942-4298
Photo of Elizabeth Belcon, MS, LMFT-S, LPC-S, Marriage & Family Therapist
Elizabeth Belcon
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT-S, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Porter, TX 77365
Are you currently in dark place in life? Wake up sad and hopeless? Experiencing the pain of a failed relationship, experienced infidelity, unable to communicate with your spouse, or is a victim of a traumatic experience? As an experienced therapist, I am here to help you through the challenges you are facing in your life. I ensure my clients feel comfortable as they walk through their difficulties by creating a safe and empathetic environment. As a Certified Christian Counselor, I believe through Christ complete healing is possible. He promises us that "He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds." Ps. 147:3.
Are you currently in dark place in life? Wake up sad and hopeless? Experiencing the pain of a failed relationship, experienced infidelity, unable to communicate with your spouse, or is a victim of a traumatic experience? As an experienced therapist, I am here to help you through the challenges you are facing in your life. I ensure my clients feel comfortable as they walk through their difficulties by creating a safe and empathetic environment. As a Certified Christian Counselor, I believe through Christ complete healing is possible. He promises us that "He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds." Ps. 147:3.
(936) 372-6979 View (936) 372-6979
Photo of Sydney Adams, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sydney Adams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Not Verified Not Verified
1 Endorsed
Porter, TX 77365
I work with those in their late teens through geriatrics in individual, marital or family therapy. I thoroughly assess each client and work with their own unique circumstances and strengths to address their issues, resolve presenting problems and accomplish goals. I specialize in the treatment of issues including: mental illness, phase of life, grief and loss, reconciliation, divorce, adjustment to medical or mental health diagnosis, occupational, spiritual, trauma, abuse and women’s issues. Beyond my education and professional experience, I draw from a myriad of personal life experiences that have made me a better therapist.
I work with those in their late teens through geriatrics in individual, marital or family therapy. I thoroughly assess each client and work with their own unique circumstances and strengths to address their issues, resolve presenting problems and accomplish goals. I specialize in the treatment of issues including: mental illness, phase of life, grief and loss, reconciliation, divorce, adjustment to medical or mental health diagnosis, occupational, spiritual, trauma, abuse and women’s issues. Beyond my education and professional experience, I draw from a myriad of personal life experiences that have made me a better therapist.
(832) 906-4658 View (832) 906-4658
Photo of Jamie Shields - Hope Within Healing, Counseling Services, PLLC, LPC, LCDC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Hope Within Healing, Counseling Services, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Porter, TX 77365
My name is Jamie Shields. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor as well as a Licensed Chemical Dependence Counselor. My experience with children, teens and adults spans over two decades. I currently specialize in trauma, substance abuse, grief/loss, anxiety, mood disorders. Additionally, I am a Certified EMDR Therapist . I provide an eclectic approach to counseling with my patients by utilizing components of EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and/or Solution Focused Therapy for trauma, anxiety, substance abuse, mood disorders and other obstacles presented during counseling sessions.
My name is Jamie Shields. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor as well as a Licensed Chemical Dependence Counselor. My experience with children, teens and adults spans over two decades. I currently specialize in trauma, substance abuse, grief/loss, anxiety, mood disorders. Additionally, I am a Certified EMDR Therapist . I provide an eclectic approach to counseling with my patients by utilizing components of EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and/or Solution Focused Therapy for trauma, anxiety, substance abuse, mood disorders and other obstacles presented during counseling sessions.
(832) 497-1706 View (832) 497-1706
Photo of Kimberly Boyd - KBCC - Heights/Kingwood/Humble/Cleveland, MS, LPC-, S, Licensed Professional Counselor
KBCC - Heights/Kingwood/Humble/Cleveland
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-, S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Porter, TX 77365
Welcome to Kimberly Boyd Counseling Center, LLC where our desire is to assist individuals in making realistic and necessary changes to improve their mental health and emotional well-being. Using a therapeutic relationship based on respect and positive esteem, our clinicians will help you define a plan, set goals and measurable objectives, and encourage and motivate you through your journey.
Welcome to Kimberly Boyd Counseling Center, LLC where our desire is to assist individuals in making realistic and necessary changes to improve their mental health and emotional well-being. Using a therapeutic relationship based on respect and positive esteem, our clinicians will help you define a plan, set goals and measurable objectives, and encourage and motivate you through your journey.
(281) 767-8609 View (281) 767-8609

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Melissa E. Garrett-Moultrie, EdD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Melissa E. Garrett-Moultrie
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC
Verified Verified
Humble, TX 77338  (Online Only)
I have worked with adult clients with a range of concerns: bipolar disorder, impulse control disorders, marital discord, infidelity, fertility issues, substance abuse, anxiety, depression, postpartum depression, and grief.
I specialize in child, adolescent, and adult mental health services and have practiced in a variety of clinical settings throughout my career. These settings include inpatient acute care, outpatient community-based counseling centers, and schools. My experience also includes working with multicultural and diverse populations across all age groups. I have had the opportunity to work with families who have children on the Autism Spectrum as well as children/adolescents struggling with behavioral concerns and anger management issues. I have a passion for providing psychoeducation to individuals with mental health concerns.
I have worked with adult clients with a range of concerns: bipolar disorder, impulse control disorders, marital discord, infidelity, fertility issues, substance abuse, anxiety, depression, postpartum depression, and grief.
I specialize in child, adolescent, and adult mental health services and have practiced in a variety of clinical settings throughout my career. These settings include inpatient acute care, outpatient community-based counseling centers, and schools. My experience also includes working with multicultural and diverse populations across all age groups. I have had the opportunity to work with families who have children on the Autism Spectrum as well as children/adolescents struggling with behavioral concerns and anger management issues. I have a passion for providing psychoeducation to individuals with mental health concerns.
(832) 210-2619 View (832) 210-2619
Photo of Shannon Mosher, NCC LPC, C-PD, CHT, CCTP, C-DBT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shannon Mosher
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC LPC, C-PD, CHT, CCTP, C-DBT
Verified Verified
Kingwood, TX 77339
Waitlist for new clients
Do you have an overwhelming sense of anxiety or depression? Are you completely exhausted by your emotional pain and feel like a prisoner in your own mind? Together, we can find solutions to help you take action and start becoming the best version of yourself! I am a compassionate and caring counselor who has helped hundreds of people to redefine their lives and live more meaningful, joyous, and focused lives. People come to me when they’re struggling with panic, anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, loneliness, abandonment, personality disorders, bipolar, trauma, stress, life direction, or healthy self-esteem.
Do you have an overwhelming sense of anxiety or depression? Are you completely exhausted by your emotional pain and feel like a prisoner in your own mind? Together, we can find solutions to help you take action and start becoming the best version of yourself! I am a compassionate and caring counselor who has helped hundreds of people to redefine their lives and live more meaningful, joyous, and focused lives. People come to me when they’re struggling with panic, anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, loneliness, abandonment, personality disorders, bipolar, trauma, stress, life direction, or healthy self-esteem.
(281) 645-5681 View (281) 645-5681
Photo of Marianne Mccarthy - Marianne McCarthy, LPC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Marianne McCarthy, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Spring, TX 77386
Bipolar Disorder, Major Depressive Disorder, Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, PTSD/trauma, anxiety, grief and bereavement, aging and death concerns, anger, self-harm and suicidal ideation, abuse, and relationship problems.
Since 2006, my experience has been growing in guiding and supporting folks in overcoming the psychological barriers of severe mental health concerns and situational or generalized concerns. I learn what the individual is seeking to gain and create a therapeutic approach unique to that individual. I'm trained in multiple modalities and typically utilize a combined approach. I enjoy working with adults and couples and provide both individual and family counseling. Choosing a counselor can be a difficult process so I embrace every opportunity as an honor to build a trusting relationship and unveil wellness.
Bipolar Disorder, Major Depressive Disorder, Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, PTSD/trauma, anxiety, grief and bereavement, aging and death concerns, anger, self-harm and suicidal ideation, abuse, and relationship problems.
Since 2006, my experience has been growing in guiding and supporting folks in overcoming the psychological barriers of severe mental health concerns and situational or generalized concerns. I learn what the individual is seeking to gain and create a therapeutic approach unique to that individual. I'm trained in multiple modalities and typically utilize a combined approach. I enjoy working with adults and couples and provide both individual and family counseling. Choosing a counselor can be a difficult process so I embrace every opportunity as an honor to build a trusting relationship and unveil wellness.
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Photo of Chantell Marie Hebert, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chantell Marie Hebert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Humble, TX 77338
Hello, I am a License Clinical Social Worker. I have experience in providing Individual, Group and Family Therapy. I have worked with clients presenting with Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, Addiction and Suicidal Ideations.
Hello, I am a License Clinical Social Worker. I have experience in providing Individual, Group and Family Therapy. I have worked with clients presenting with Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, Addiction and Suicidal Ideations.
(936) 681-7359 View (936) 681-7359
Photo of Christopher Times, MA, CCC, LCDC-I, Counselor
Christopher Times
Counselor, MA, CCC, LCDC-I
Verified Verified
Spring, TX 77373
I specialize in chemical dependency counseling, dual diagnosis therapy, treating schizophrenia, depression, bipolar disorder and anger management.
My practice is designed to offer Life Coaching to clients of all ethnic backgrounds for the purpose of lifting, building, stimulating growth and progressive motion toward emotional well-being and personal actualization.
I specialize in chemical dependency counseling, dual diagnosis therapy, treating schizophrenia, depression, bipolar disorder and anger management.
My practice is designed to offer Life Coaching to clients of all ethnic backgrounds for the purpose of lifting, building, stimulating growth and progressive motion toward emotional well-being and personal actualization.
(409) 752-6668 View (409) 752-6668
Photo of Sheela Pandya Trivedi, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sheela Pandya Trivedi
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Spring, TX 77373
Trauma, depression, bipolar disorder, other psychological disorders in all ages.
As a therapist, my goal is to work with clients to develop goals and objectives which will help them to achieve the stability through warm, accepting, non-judgmental, goal oriented therapeutic sessions. The methods used are very eclectic and inclusive considering the client’s comfort and orientation. Methods incorporated (but not limited to) are, CBT, DBT, behavioral therapy, family therapy, solution-based brief therapy, multimodal therapy, relationship counseling.
Trauma, depression, bipolar disorder, other psychological disorders in all ages.
As a therapist, my goal is to work with clients to develop goals and objectives which will help them to achieve the stability through warm, accepting, non-judgmental, goal oriented therapeutic sessions. The methods used are very eclectic and inclusive considering the client’s comfort and orientation. Methods incorporated (but not limited to) are, CBT, DBT, behavioral therapy, family therapy, solution-based brief therapy, multimodal therapy, relationship counseling.
(832) 761-3522 View (832) 761-3522
Photo of Shalondra Moore, LPC
Shalondra Moore
LPC
Verified Verified
Kingwood, TX 77339
, depression, bipolar), devastating losses (e.
No matter how we slice it…pain sucks. Emotional pain can impact the way we live our best, meaningful life sometimes. It can complicate relationships, careers, symptoms, and even how we see the world. Do you feel like your life has been difficult to manage lately? I understand what you are feeling: the sense of overwhelming anxiety, the roller coaster of emotions, the burden of trying to take these challenges on alone, the fear or uncertainty of asking for help. I can help with that.
, depression, bipolar), devastating losses (e.
No matter how we slice it…pain sucks. Emotional pain can impact the way we live our best, meaningful life sometimes. It can complicate relationships, careers, symptoms, and even how we see the world. Do you feel like your life has been difficult to manage lately? I understand what you are feeling: the sense of overwhelming anxiety, the roller coaster of emotions, the burden of trying to take these challenges on alone, the fear or uncertainty of asking for help. I can help with that.
(346) 384-8998 View (346) 384-8998
Photo of Michelle Wolf, MA, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michelle Wolf
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Kingwood, TX 77339
Waitlist for new clients
depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, neurodivergence, and chronic illness.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor and have spent over 20 years collaborating therapeutically with individuals, families, and schools. My passion is to help people learn ways to capitalize on their strengths and provide support as clients set a path towards improved day-to-day functioning. I am devoted to creating a safe, nonjudgmental environment for healing. I am genuinely curious about the experiences, ideas, beliefs, and hopes clients bring. My theoretical orientation is integrated, pulling from person-centered, cognitive-behavioral, existential, and attachment-based methodologies. In addition, I am EMDR trained.
depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, neurodivergence, and chronic illness.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor and have spent over 20 years collaborating therapeutically with individuals, families, and schools. My passion is to help people learn ways to capitalize on their strengths and provide support as clients set a path towards improved day-to-day functioning. I am devoted to creating a safe, nonjudgmental environment for healing. I am genuinely curious about the experiences, ideas, beliefs, and hopes clients bring. My theoretical orientation is integrated, pulling from person-centered, cognitive-behavioral, existential, and attachment-based methodologies. In addition, I am EMDR trained.
(281) 709-2885 View (281) 709-2885
Photo of Stephanie Thomas, MEd,  LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stephanie Thomas
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Kingwood, TX 77339
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor licensed in Texas with over 15 years of experience working as a Clinical Therapist, Clinical Director and Executive Director. I have worked with clients with a wide range of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, and chronic mental illnesses to include bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. I have also served survivors of trauma including physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotional abuse and human trafficking.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor licensed in Texas with over 15 years of experience working as a Clinical Therapist, Clinical Director and Executive Director. I have worked with clients with a wide range of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, and chronic mental illnesses to include bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. I have also served survivors of trauma including physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotional abuse and human trafficking.
(281) 801-8426 View (281) 801-8426
Photo of Melissa Ibanez, MEd, LPC-A, LCDC
Melissa Ibanez
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MEd, LPC-A, LCDC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kingwood, TX 77339  (Online Only)
I am a compassionate and experienced Licensed Professional Counselor-Associate, specializing in addiction, trauma, and co-occurring mental health disorders. I hold an M.Ed. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Houston, supplemented by an MBA from the University of Houston Downtown. With six years as a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor, I have developed expertise in Motivational Interviewing, CBT, ACT, and DBT, working with individuals affected by trauma, grief, legal issues, bipolar disorder, ADHD, low self-esteem, depression, and anxiety.
I am a compassionate and experienced Licensed Professional Counselor-Associate, specializing in addiction, trauma, and co-occurring mental health disorders. I hold an M.Ed. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Houston, supplemented by an MBA from the University of Houston Downtown. With six years as a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor, I have developed expertise in Motivational Interviewing, CBT, ACT, and DBT, working with individuals affected by trauma, grief, legal issues, bipolar disorder, ADHD, low self-esteem, depression, and anxiety.
(346) 553-1998 View (346) 553-1998
Photo of Meg Bellows, MS, LPC-S, NCC, CART, BCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Meg Bellows
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S, NCC, CART, BCPC
Verified Verified
Humble, TX 77338
My passion is treating clients who have endured trauma. I'm trained in EMDR. I combine EMDR with narrative therapy to help clients resolve and reprocess the traumatic event. I love working with clients who suffer from depression, bipolar, and personality disorders. I also work with couples and families who are in crisis. I am also endorsed by the American Psychotherapy Association as a Board Certified Professional Counselor.
My passion is treating clients who have endured trauma. I'm trained in EMDR. I combine EMDR with narrative therapy to help clients resolve and reprocess the traumatic event. I love working with clients who suffer from depression, bipolar, and personality disorders. I also work with couples and families who are in crisis. I am also endorsed by the American Psychotherapy Association as a Board Certified Professional Counselor.
(561) 935-3543 View (561) 935-3543
Photo of Kathleen Treadway, MA, LPC, NCC, LCDC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kathleen Treadway
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, LCDC
Verified Verified
Kingwood, TX 77339  (Online Only)
I have helped adults, adolescents, and families with a broad range of difficulties, including excessive anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, history of domestic violence and/or childhood trauma, etc.
I view counseling as a partnership between the client and myself. I see my role as enabling people to explore ways to heal from emotional hurt, to discover pathways toward more effective and positive ways of thinking, and to adopt helpful patterns of behavior. Through counseling, I help people recognize their strengths; encourage individuals to take responsibility for their feelings, thoughts, and behaviors; and assist people in making and implementing effective decisions. Using an integrative approach to counseling, the techniques I use are cognitive-behavioral, person-centered, solution-focused, and interpersonal. I utilize cognitive-behavioral therapy and family system theories.
I have helped adults, adolescents, and families with a broad range of difficulties, including excessive anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, history of domestic violence and/or childhood trauma, etc.
I view counseling as a partnership between the client and myself. I see my role as enabling people to explore ways to heal from emotional hurt, to discover pathways toward more effective and positive ways of thinking, and to adopt helpful patterns of behavior. Through counseling, I help people recognize their strengths; encourage individuals to take responsibility for their feelings, thoughts, and behaviors; and assist people in making and implementing effective decisions. Using an integrative approach to counseling, the techniques I use are cognitive-behavioral, person-centered, solution-focused, and interpersonal. I utilize cognitive-behavioral therapy and family system theories.
(713) 338-9113 View (713) 338-9113

See more therapy options for Porter

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.