Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Rollingwood, TX

Photo of Maxine Bettis-Arnold, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Maxine Bettis-Arnold
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Rollingwood, TX 78746
I focus on coping with mood disorders such as bipolar and depression.
It takes courage to seek help and it is important to feel heard, understood and safe in the therapy relationship. I focus on building a strong relationship with the client that allows us to explore areas of concern and start the healing process. My belief in the capacity to change thinking patterns, emotional reactions and behaviors helps clients identify strengths, gain insight and help develop coping strategies. We work with therapeutic resources to help families, couples and individuals accomplish their goals.
I focus on coping with mood disorders such as bipolar and depression.
It takes courage to seek help and it is important to feel heard, understood and safe in the therapy relationship. I focus on building a strong relationship with the client that allows us to explore areas of concern and start the healing process. My belief in the capacity to change thinking patterns, emotional reactions and behaviors helps clients identify strengths, gain insight and help develop coping strategies. We work with therapeutic resources to help families, couples and individuals accomplish their goals.
(720) 307-3797 View (720) 307-3797
Photo of Anna Zapata, MS, LPC, RYT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Anna Zapata
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, RYT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Rollingwood, TX 78746
My clients come in experiencing self-doubt, anxiety and believing they are not quite “good enough”. Maybe you’re feeling the constant weight of perfectionism in your life and relationships. You could be tired of over performing for others and under delivering to yourself. Many of my clients overly accommodate others at the expense of their own needs, resulting in uneasiness in the body, nervous system exhaustion and burnout! I see therapy as a way to start connecting with and speaking your truth and to finally quit abandoning yourself! Most of my clients are younger women (UT students welcome!) however, I see all genders ages 18+.
My clients come in experiencing self-doubt, anxiety and believing they are not quite “good enough”. Maybe you’re feeling the constant weight of perfectionism in your life and relationships. You could be tired of over performing for others and under delivering to yourself. Many of my clients overly accommodate others at the expense of their own needs, resulting in uneasiness in the body, nervous system exhaustion and burnout! I see therapy as a way to start connecting with and speaking your truth and to finally quit abandoning yourself! Most of my clients are younger women (UT students welcome!) however, I see all genders ages 18+.
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Photo of Susannah D. Kirksey, MA, LPC, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Susannah D. Kirksey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Rollingwood, TX 78746
We live in an extraordinary stressful time. Do you find yourself feeling anxious, depressed, or lonely? Maybe you face issues of love and relationship, career and money, health and happiness, or bereavement and loss. Perhaps you are simply sick of repeating the same self-defeating patterns. Whatever the case, we can figure it out together. I will guide you in the journey of self-inquiry that will lead to creating something beautiful and extraordinary in your life no matter the circumstance. Life will take on new meaning and purpose as you begin to explore and discover and love who you are.
We live in an extraordinary stressful time. Do you find yourself feeling anxious, depressed, or lonely? Maybe you face issues of love and relationship, career and money, health and happiness, or bereavement and loss. Perhaps you are simply sick of repeating the same self-defeating patterns. Whatever the case, we can figure it out together. I will guide you in the journey of self-inquiry that will lead to creating something beautiful and extraordinary in your life no matter the circumstance. Life will take on new meaning and purpose as you begin to explore and discover and love who you are.
(512) 598-4239 View (512) 598-4239
Photo of Carney Soderberg, PsyD, Psychologist
Carney Soderberg
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Rollingwood, TX 78746
I help young people understand their strengths as well as their challenges, discover healthy ways to express and manage fears and insecurities, and accept support from those who care about them. Many lack important skills to successfully manage demands of school, relationships, and stressful life events, leaving them "stuck" in patterns of reactivity that can be concerning and confusing to others. Through our work and collaboration with their families and other care providers, my patients often report improved self-awareness, self-esteem, school performance, environmental support, and interactions with peers and family members.
I help young people understand their strengths as well as their challenges, discover healthy ways to express and manage fears and insecurities, and accept support from those who care about them. Many lack important skills to successfully manage demands of school, relationships, and stressful life events, leaving them "stuck" in patterns of reactivity that can be concerning and confusing to others. Through our work and collaboration with their families and other care providers, my patients often report improved self-awareness, self-esteem, school performance, environmental support, and interactions with peers and family members.
(512) 910-7582 View (512) 910-7582
Photo of Wendy Copeland - Wendy Copeland LMFT-S, LMFT-S, Marriage & Family Therapist
Wendy Copeland LMFT-S
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT-S
Verified Verified
17 Endorsed
Rollingwood, TX 78746
Acceptance. Hope. Healing. I have been practicing 14 years but over 22 years serving youth/families in various settings (ministry, teaching, coaching, leadership development, and mental health). I see couples, adults, and teens; I specialize in serving those struggling with body image, eating disorders, low self esteem, and survivors of trauma/sexual assault. My passion is helping clients make peace with their bodies/food and find healing from relational hurts/ past trauma. Also happy to integrate religion or talk past hurts. If you think you may benefit from therapy, please don't delay! www.wendycopeland.com
Acceptance. Hope. Healing. I have been practicing 14 years but over 22 years serving youth/families in various settings (ministry, teaching, coaching, leadership development, and mental health). I see couples, adults, and teens; I specialize in serving those struggling with body image, eating disorders, low self esteem, and survivors of trauma/sexual assault. My passion is helping clients make peace with their bodies/food and find healing from relational hurts/ past trauma. Also happy to integrate religion or talk past hurts. If you think you may benefit from therapy, please don't delay! www.wendycopeland.com
(737) 234-9978 View (737) 234-9978
Photo of Deanna Miesch, LPC, MAAT, ATR-BC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Deanna Miesch
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MAAT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Rollingwood, TX 78746
With 27 years of experience in Art Psychotherapy, I offer many tools to clients that are useful long after therapy has ended. My approach is eclectic and relational, meeting you where you are, and helping you develop a path to achieve your goals. Learn how to tap into your intuition, combining cutting edge CRM (Comprehensive Resource Model) and art making as your guide, and witness the changes you seek. Change your world and the world changes with you! Board Certified Registered Art Therapist (ATR-BC), Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). I specialize in women's issues, trauma processing, particularly with motivated adults.
With 27 years of experience in Art Psychotherapy, I offer many tools to clients that are useful long after therapy has ended. My approach is eclectic and relational, meeting you where you are, and helping you develop a path to achieve your goals. Learn how to tap into your intuition, combining cutting edge CRM (Comprehensive Resource Model) and art making as your guide, and witness the changes you seek. Change your world and the world changes with you! Board Certified Registered Art Therapist (ATR-BC), Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). I specialize in women's issues, trauma processing, particularly with motivated adults.
(512) 649-0176 View (512) 649-0176
Photo of LeAnn Dapper, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
LeAnn Dapper
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Rollingwood, TX 78746  (Online Only)
Life can be difficult and full of unexpected challenges. I work with adolescents, adults and families in addressing these challenges, finding new ways to cope and function more effectively. I have experience treating disordered eating, body image, self harm, anxiety, interpersonal issues and depression. I also have experience assisting those going through life transitions such as divorce, job changes, and grief. While having been trained in dialectical behavior therapy and cognitive behavior therapy, I also incorporate other theoretical backgrounds in my approach, depending on client need and individual personality.
Life can be difficult and full of unexpected challenges. I work with adolescents, adults and families in addressing these challenges, finding new ways to cope and function more effectively. I have experience treating disordered eating, body image, self harm, anxiety, interpersonal issues and depression. I also have experience assisting those going through life transitions such as divorce, job changes, and grief. While having been trained in dialectical behavior therapy and cognitive behavior therapy, I also incorporate other theoretical backgrounds in my approach, depending on client need and individual personality.
(737) 204-1991 View (737) 204-1991
Photo of Albert Bellard - Albert Bellard, LCSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Albert Bellard, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rollingwood, TX 78746  (Online Only)
Hi and thanks for checking out my Psychology Today profile.... I've worked for 35 years as a psychotherapist in the Austin area . My approach to my work is inclusive of mindfulness, compassion, graciousness and humility, always respectful of the notion that the client is ultimately the expert on and the decision maker for his/her life. Please visit my website for more about me and my work. All the best to you!
Hi and thanks for checking out my Psychology Today profile.... I've worked for 35 years as a psychotherapist in the Austin area . My approach to my work is inclusive of mindfulness, compassion, graciousness and humility, always respectful of the notion that the client is ultimately the expert on and the decision maker for his/her life. Please visit my website for more about me and my work. All the best to you!
(512) 523-4823 View (512) 523-4823

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Christina Galindo, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christina Galindo
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78703
Do you live with depression, bipolar disorder, or experiencing psychosis? Do you have a teenager that feels alone, depressed, or in a slump? Have you recently been diagnosed with a mental health condition that you do not understand or know where to turn to for resources? Have you experience trauma through a traumatic event, childhood, adolescents, or a relationship? Do you need help?
Do you live with depression, bipolar disorder, or experiencing psychosis? Do you have a teenager that feels alone, depressed, or in a slump? Have you recently been diagnosed with a mental health condition that you do not understand or know where to turn to for resources? Have you experience trauma through a traumatic event, childhood, adolescents, or a relationship? Do you need help?
(830) 283-3740 View (830) 283-3740
Photo of Dr. Daniela Krotzer, PhD, LCSW, EMDR-C, IFS-C, CDBT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Daniela Krotzer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, EMDR-C, IFS-C, CDBT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78746
Daniela has expertise in various areas, such as trauma, PTSD, grief, relationship challenges, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, suicidal thoughts, self-injury, depression, anxiety, and more.
The last years have been trying years for everyone. Perhaps they brought new behaviors from your partner, family member, or yourself. Maybe they reminded you of past traumas. Many have "big T" traumas like abuse or near-death experiences. We all have some "little t" traumas, like feeling rejected by others. Part of us gets stuck back to when we experienced the trauma. But you don't have to stay there! You can escape the grip of both "big T" & "little t" traumas. These no longer have to affect you, your relationships, or many other things. Sign up today for a consultation at drdanielakrotzer.com.
Daniela has expertise in various areas, such as trauma, PTSD, grief, relationship challenges, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, suicidal thoughts, self-injury, depression, anxiety, and more.
The last years have been trying years for everyone. Perhaps they brought new behaviors from your partner, family member, or yourself. Maybe they reminded you of past traumas. Many have "big T" traumas like abuse or near-death experiences. We all have some "little t" traumas, like feeling rejected by others. Part of us gets stuck back to when we experienced the trauma. But you don't have to stay there! You can escape the grip of both "big T" & "little t" traumas. These no longer have to affect you, your relationships, or many other things. Sign up today for a consultation at drdanielakrotzer.com.
(737) 265-2975 View (737) 265-2975
Photo of Anne Marie Jennings, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anne Marie Jennings
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78746
My specialties include depression, anxiety, marital counseling, parent-child relationships, families, bipolar disorder, and anger management.
I approach therapy as a partnership with my clients in which you are the ultimate decision maker and I work with you to clear away obstacles and identify opportunities. My clients have successfully overcome or managed depression, anxiety, OCD, trauma, marital stress, parent-child difficulties, domestic violence, substance abuse, bipolar disorder, and anger issues.
My specialties include depression, anxiety, marital counseling, parent-child relationships, families, bipolar disorder, and anger management.
I approach therapy as a partnership with my clients in which you are the ultimate decision maker and I work with you to clear away obstacles and identify opportunities. My clients have successfully overcome or managed depression, anxiety, OCD, trauma, marital stress, parent-child difficulties, domestic violence, substance abuse, bipolar disorder, and anger issues.
(512) 430-4524 View (512) 430-4524
Photo of January Martin, LCSW, LCDC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
January Martin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCDC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78746
Waitlist for new clients
I work well with adults coping with bipolar disorder, psychosis, depression, grief, and trauma.
I believe that people should not be limited to a label. We are so much more than problems or disorders; we are strengthened by our flaws and our most difficult experiences can transform us. I am direct, interactive, and strongly believe that people change through healing relationships. In sessions we will work together at a pace that feels right for you. We will identify and prioritize your goals, address problems that get in the way of your happiness, and collaboratively build lasting solutions. I will listen to and accept your feedback about how we are working together.
I work well with adults coping with bipolar disorder, psychosis, depression, grief, and trauma.
I believe that people should not be limited to a label. We are so much more than problems or disorders; we are strengthened by our flaws and our most difficult experiences can transform us. I am direct, interactive, and strongly believe that people change through healing relationships. In sessions we will work together at a pace that feels right for you. We will identify and prioritize your goals, address problems that get in the way of your happiness, and collaboratively build lasting solutions. I will listen to and accept your feedback about how we are working together.
(512) 948-3370 View (512) 948-3370
Photo of Loretta Macias, LPC, LCDC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Loretta Macias
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
West Lake Hills, TX 78746
I've been in the mental health field since 2003, focusing on bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, trauma and addiction recovery.
Creating balanced lives in a complicated world is my mission. My strength is listening, untangling complex issues, and helping you see things in a new light. I love to work with adults who are ready for change. I offer support and clarity as you explore your relationships with significant others, family, work, spirituality and, more importantly, with yourself. I particularly enjoy working with individuals who are open to learning and growing. Together, we uncover and overcome the beliefs and behaviors holding you back. Visit: www.lorettamacias.com
I've been in the mental health field since 2003, focusing on bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, trauma and addiction recovery.
Creating balanced lives in a complicated world is my mission. My strength is listening, untangling complex issues, and helping you see things in a new light. I love to work with adults who are ready for change. I offer support and clarity as you explore your relationships with significant others, family, work, spirituality and, more importantly, with yourself. I particularly enjoy working with individuals who are open to learning and growing. Together, we uncover and overcome the beliefs and behaviors holding you back. Visit: www.lorettamacias.com
(737) 206-7360 View (737) 206-7360
Photo of Matthew Turner, PhD, ABPP, Psychologist
Matthew Turner
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78746
Waitlist for new clients
Problems I often treat include anxiety, mood disorders (depression and bipolar disorders), relationship issues, and anger problems.
Greetings! I hold a doctorate in clinical psychology and have extensive training in the science and art of psychotherapy. I am Board Certified in clinical psychology (American Board of Professional Psychology). My approach to psychotherapy is grounded in empirical methods, that is, methods proven by scientific research to address mental illness and relationship issues people often bring to a psychotherapist for help managing and ultimately overcome. I offer individual psychotherapy as well as psychological testing.
Problems I often treat include anxiety, mood disorders (depression and bipolar disorders), relationship issues, and anger problems.
Greetings! I hold a doctorate in clinical psychology and have extensive training in the science and art of psychotherapy. I am Board Certified in clinical psychology (American Board of Professional Psychology). My approach to psychotherapy is grounded in empirical methods, that is, methods proven by scientific research to address mental illness and relationship issues people often bring to a psychotherapist for help managing and ultimately overcome. I offer individual psychotherapy as well as psychological testing.
(361) 444-2344 View (361) 444-2344
Photo of Kimberly McGoey, PsyD, Psychologist
Kimberly McGoey
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78703
I specialize in treating patients with long-term mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and trauma.
As a psychodynamic and attachment-oriented psychotherapist, I seek to help my patients better understand themselves. I know this journey isn't easy and I am here to walk with you down the path to knowing, understanding, and growing. I do this by meeting my patients where they are and mutually agreeing upon goals and what you want the therapeutic process to look like for you. Whether you are looking for help for a specific issue such as depression, anxiety, loss, or seek to explore yourself; I will join with you and help alleviate your pain in order to help you become more aware, integrated, and live a more content life.
I specialize in treating patients with long-term mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and trauma.
As a psychodynamic and attachment-oriented psychotherapist, I seek to help my patients better understand themselves. I know this journey isn't easy and I am here to walk with you down the path to knowing, understanding, and growing. I do this by meeting my patients where they are and mutually agreeing upon goals and what you want the therapeutic process to look like for you. Whether you are looking for help for a specific issue such as depression, anxiety, loss, or seek to explore yourself; I will join with you and help alleviate your pain in order to help you become more aware, integrated, and live a more content life.
(512) 714-3403 View (512) 714-3403
Photo of Caitlin Coyner, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Caitlin Coyner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78703
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over a decade of experience working with Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, Self Esteem problems, Domestic and Sexual Abuse, Schizophrenia, and other major mental health challenges. I work mostly with adults and am particularly passionate about working with Geriatric/Elderly populations and those in the LGBTQ communities. My primary types of therapy are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused, and Strengths-Based, although I pull from many areas depending on my client’s needs.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over a decade of experience working with Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, Self Esteem problems, Domestic and Sexual Abuse, Schizophrenia, and other major mental health challenges. I work mostly with adults and am particularly passionate about working with Geriatric/Elderly populations and those in the LGBTQ communities. My primary types of therapy are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused, and Strengths-Based, although I pull from many areas depending on my client’s needs.
(512) 714-3403 View (512) 714-3403
Photo of Mimi Walke, LPC, C-DBT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mimi Walke
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, C-DBT
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78703
I specialize in mood disorders (anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder), relationship issues, and personality disorders.
Do you ever feel misunderstood, alone, or overwhelmed by your daily responsibilities? Therapy can be a great way to learn to build coping skills for your anxiety, depression, or any other mental health challenges you may be facing. Therapy can also help you set goals, work on boundary setting, communication skills, and processing past events that have left lasting marks in current relationships. It's important that I provide a safe space for my clients to express their feelings, needs, and wants to an unbiased person (me, the counselor) and that I can offer feedback that challenges them to grow and heal!
I specialize in mood disorders (anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder), relationship issues, and personality disorders.
Do you ever feel misunderstood, alone, or overwhelmed by your daily responsibilities? Therapy can be a great way to learn to build coping skills for your anxiety, depression, or any other mental health challenges you may be facing. Therapy can also help you set goals, work on boundary setting, communication skills, and processing past events that have left lasting marks in current relationships. It's important that I provide a safe space for my clients to express their feelings, needs, and wants to an unbiased person (me, the counselor) and that I can offer feedback that challenges them to grow and heal!
(512) 714-3403 View (512) 714-3403
Photo of Audry Steele, MA,  LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Audry Steele
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78703
With over 25 years of experience, I specialize in helping motivated people address anxiety, stress, depression, and relationship issues - My approach includes mindfulness, psychoanalysis, and attachment therapy - effective for codependency, narcissism, parenting problems, grief, postpartum changes, self-esteem issues, bipolar symptoms, anger, and trauma.
A few openings available for new clients - Are you someone who has accomplished much, but finds certain parts of your life or yourself increasingly difficult or stuck? Whether you're navigating complex relationships, managing stress and anxiety, or interested in making changes, I work with individuals who are invested in understanding themselves and progressing through the challenges they encounter, both internal and external. My clients are often curious about how they relate to others and what drives their interactions.
With over 25 years of experience, I specialize in helping motivated people address anxiety, stress, depression, and relationship issues - My approach includes mindfulness, psychoanalysis, and attachment therapy - effective for codependency, narcissism, parenting problems, grief, postpartum changes, self-esteem issues, bipolar symptoms, anger, and trauma.
A few openings available for new clients - Are you someone who has accomplished much, but finds certain parts of your life or yourself increasingly difficult or stuck? Whether you're navigating complex relationships, managing stress and anxiety, or interested in making changes, I work with individuals who are invested in understanding themselves and progressing through the challenges they encounter, both internal and external. My clients are often curious about how they relate to others and what drives their interactions.
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Photo of Laurie D Gamble - Laurie Gamble, LCSW, SEP, LCSW, SEP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laurie Gamble, LCSW, SEP
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SEP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78746  (Online Only)
Thank you for your interest in my psychotherapy practice. Austin Family Wellness is dedicated to giving individuals affordable, effective, and compassionate care. Whether it is with a serious mental health issue such as, depression, anxiety, or bipolar, or difficulty letting go of an addiction, Austin Family Wellness is here to help you achieve positive personal growth.
Thank you for your interest in my psychotherapy practice. Austin Family Wellness is dedicated to giving individuals affordable, effective, and compassionate care. Whether it is with a serious mental health issue such as, depression, anxiety, or bipolar, or difficulty letting go of an addiction, Austin Family Wellness is here to help you achieve positive personal growth.
(512) 649-4034 View (512) 649-4034
Photo of Gina L Warr, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gina L Warr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78703
My experience includes working with adult LGBTQ clients, active duty/retired military service members, persons diagnosed with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, victims of domestic violence, trauma, and those experiencing life transition issues.
All human beings experience difficult times. Our environments often change faster than we can keep up with. Like most living things, one of our greatest strengths is our resilience. As a mental health professional, it is my role to help people identify and utilize the strengths they already possess to cope with whatever challenges have been put in front of them. I believe in creating a safe and inclusive environment for clients to process feelings, focus on goals, develop problem solving techniques, and coping strategies that work best for the individual.
My experience includes working with adult LGBTQ clients, active duty/retired military service members, persons diagnosed with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, victims of domestic violence, trauma, and those experiencing life transition issues.
All human beings experience difficult times. Our environments often change faster than we can keep up with. Like most living things, one of our greatest strengths is our resilience. As a mental health professional, it is my role to help people identify and utilize the strengths they already possess to cope with whatever challenges have been put in front of them. I believe in creating a safe and inclusive environment for clients to process feelings, focus on goals, develop problem solving techniques, and coping strategies that work best for the individual.
(512) 714-3403 View (512) 714-3403

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.