Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Spicewood, TX

Photo of Mary Mercedes Richards - Spirit of Serene Healing Counseling LLC, MS, LPC-S, NCC, CART, Licensed Professional Counselor
Spirit of Serene Healing Counseling LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S, NCC, CART
Verified Verified
Spicewood, TX 78669
I have over thirteen years of experience in working with individuals that have been diagnosed with Schizophrenia, Bi-Polar Disorder and Manic depression.
Everyone is unique in their own way with their own needs and purpose to fulfill. With life having many challenges, so we begin with a goal to live each moment with sincere and serene grace, to laugh about at least one thing every day, and to love with passion and compassion. There is always hope for renewal and a bright future so long as we focus on our goals.
I have over thirteen years of experience in working with individuals that have been diagnosed with Schizophrenia, Bi-Polar Disorder and Manic depression.
Everyone is unique in their own way with their own needs and purpose to fulfill. With life having many challenges, so we begin with a goal to live each moment with sincere and serene grace, to laugh about at least one thing every day, and to love with passion and compassion. There is always hope for renewal and a bright future so long as we focus on our goals.
(830) 798-1443 x300 View (830) 798-1443 x300
Photo of Eulina Smith, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Eulina Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Spicewood, TX 78669  (Online Only)
I am a proud graduate of Texas Tech University where I graduated with dual Bachelors' degrees in Dance and Community, Family, and Addiction Services. I also attended Texas Tech Graduate School where I earned a Masters in both Counselor Education and Interdisciplinary Studies with concentration in Counseling, Educational Psychology, and Addictions. I graduated with honors and was a member of Chi Sigma Iota Honors Society while in graduate school at Texas Tech. My approach to counseling combines Solution Focused, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Reality, and Gestalt theories.
I am a proud graduate of Texas Tech University where I graduated with dual Bachelors' degrees in Dance and Community, Family, and Addiction Services. I also attended Texas Tech Graduate School where I earned a Masters in both Counselor Education and Interdisciplinary Studies with concentration in Counseling, Educational Psychology, and Addictions. I graduated with honors and was a member of Chi Sigma Iota Honors Society while in graduate school at Texas Tech. My approach to counseling combines Solution Focused, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Reality, and Gestalt theories.
(737) 327-5125 View (737) 327-5125
Photo of Rachel Daley, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rachel Daley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Spicewood, TX 78669
My name is Rachel Daley and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor (LCDC) based out of San Antonio, Texas. I have been doing addiction counseling in person since 2010 and added mental health counseling to my skill set in 2019. After the pandemic, I began virtual counseling across Texas and have had great experiences working with people all over the state. I work with adults and specialize in anxiety, trauma, PTSD, depression, borderline personality disorder, and both chemical and process addictions.
My name is Rachel Daley and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor (LCDC) based out of San Antonio, Texas. I have been doing addiction counseling in person since 2010 and added mental health counseling to my skill set in 2019. After the pandemic, I began virtual counseling across Texas and have had great experiences working with people all over the state. I work with adults and specialize in anxiety, trauma, PTSD, depression, borderline personality disorder, and both chemical and process addictions.
(346) 483-8063 View (346) 483-8063
Photo of Joyce Caldwell, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Joyce Caldwell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Spicewood, TX 78669
I am Joyce Caldwell a licensed professional counselor in Texas with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self-esteem, confidence, depression, and coping with life changes. My approach to therapy is I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support and empower you in that journey.
I am Joyce Caldwell a licensed professional counselor in Texas with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self-esteem, confidence, depression, and coping with life changes. My approach to therapy is I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support and empower you in that journey.
(832) 835-6413 View (832) 835-6413
Photo of Cyndi Soliday, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cyndi Soliday
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Spicewood, TX 78669
I am a graduate of the Steve Hicks School of Social Work at The University of Texas. My focus is on establishing a productive therapeutic relationship with clients in order to identify and build upon their strengths while finding a sense of ease in their own being. I can assist clients experiencing substance use disorder, depression, anxiety, relational difficulties, and grief and loss. Together, we can develop coping and distress tolerance skills, make mindfulness and self-care daily practices, and improve communication and interpersonal effectiveness. I offer a friendly, non-judgemental ear and positive feedback.
I am a graduate of the Steve Hicks School of Social Work at The University of Texas. My focus is on establishing a productive therapeutic relationship with clients in order to identify and build upon their strengths while finding a sense of ease in their own being. I can assist clients experiencing substance use disorder, depression, anxiety, relational difficulties, and grief and loss. Together, we can develop coping and distress tolerance skills, make mindfulness and self-care daily practices, and improve communication and interpersonal effectiveness. I offer a friendly, non-judgemental ear and positive feedback.
(830) 271-2930 View (830) 271-2930
Photo of Brannon LaForce, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brannon LaForce
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Spicewood, TX 78669  (Online Only)
I have been a counselor for more than 30 years. I remain passionate about making a difference in the lives of others and believe that genuine caring is an essential element to an effective counseling relationship. Over the years I have worked with clients with significant trauma and loss.
I have been a counselor for more than 30 years. I remain passionate about making a difference in the lives of others and believe that genuine caring is an essential element to an effective counseling relationship. Over the years I have worked with clients with significant trauma and loss.
(737) 367-3983 View (737) 367-3983
Photo of Allison Biles, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Allison Biles
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Spicewood, TX 78669  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with loneliness, apathy, or a lack of motivation? Have you encountered recent life changes or are you lacking meaning in daily life? I will provide a safe space with unconditional positive regard, compassion and patience so that we can begin a collaborative journey towards improving your quality of living and you feeling more fulfilled in all the roles you play.
Are you struggling with loneliness, apathy, or a lack of motivation? Have you encountered recent life changes or are you lacking meaning in daily life? I will provide a safe space with unconditional positive regard, compassion and patience so that we can begin a collaborative journey towards improving your quality of living and you feeling more fulfilled in all the roles you play.
(737) 252-4819 View (737) 252-4819
Photo of Cristina Castro, PhD, Psychologist
Cristina Castro
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Spicewood, TX 78669
Reaching out can be difficult but worthwhile to improve your quality of life. I strive to provide a space that feels inclusive, non-judgmental, and safe. Counseling can help us gain a better understanding of our challenges and move us towards emotional well-being. I provide hands-on tools and strategies to address daily struggles while also working towards making connections and gaining insight to change existing patterns. Together we can identify what coping skills are no longer working and identify new ways to manage your life. I am available for a free 15 minute consultation call. I can be reached through email, phone, and text.
Reaching out can be difficult but worthwhile to improve your quality of life. I strive to provide a space that feels inclusive, non-judgmental, and safe. Counseling can help us gain a better understanding of our challenges and move us towards emotional well-being. I provide hands-on tools and strategies to address daily struggles while also working towards making connections and gaining insight to change existing patterns. Together we can identify what coping skills are no longer working and identify new ways to manage your life. I am available for a free 15 minute consultation call. I can be reached through email, phone, and text.
(512) 872-4551 View (512) 872-4551
Photo of Jordan Jackson - Jordan Jackson Counseling, PLLC, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jordan Jackson Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Spicewood, TX 78669  (Online Only)
Considering therapy? Trauma, anxiety, and depression are my focus. However, I have experience in working with clients who struggle in other areas of life. Having a space where you feel understood is important to me, so I invite you to reach out today.
Considering therapy? Trauma, anxiety, and depression are my focus. However, I have experience in working with clients who struggle in other areas of life. Having a space where you feel understood is important to me, so I invite you to reach out today.
(833) 445-0258 View (833) 445-0258

More Therapists Nearby

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 78732
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
Lakeway, TX 78734
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 Kathryn Moore, MS, LPC-A
Kathryn Moore
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MS, LPC-A
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78732
Do you feel like the challenges around you are interfering with your life? Maybe a relationship hurdle. Self-esteem, body issues, or an eating disorder. All that pregnancy, postpartum, and parenting can bring. Are you struggling to communicate with your partner or children? Challenged by a new diagnosis such as anxiety, depression, or bipolar disorder and do not know where to turn? Maybe you are new to adulthood and feel that you do not know how to navigate your day-to-day life.
Do you feel like the challenges around you are interfering with your life? Maybe a relationship hurdle. Self-esteem, body issues, or an eating disorder. All that pregnancy, postpartum, and parenting can bring. Are you struggling to communicate with your partner or children? Challenged by a new diagnosis such as anxiety, depression, or bipolar disorder and do not know where to turn? Maybe you are new to adulthood and feel that you do not know how to navigate your day-to-day life.
(806) 606-0366 View (806) 606-0366
Photo of Prof. Arthur Gaylian Kirby II, MS, MDiv, Licensed Professional Counselor
Prof. Arthur Gaylian Kirby II
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MDiv
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78732
Life experience has taught me to understand mental illness, bipolar mood disorder, other mood disorders, personality disorders, abuse victims of multiple sources, attachment disorders, sick and healthy religion and spiritually.
My job is to help people live happier lives. My office is a continuing education service for all who enter. The goal for me, and hopefully for the person I am working with, is to learn from each other through the change agent of conversation. After 40 years of experience, my belief is that humans never really change until what they have done is working anymore, is broken, and/or gone. Thus change begins with loss, some small and some life ending. At these moments of transition, learning how to let go is the lesson, whether we like it or not. Whatever big change you are going through, positive or negative begins with an ending.
Life experience has taught me to understand mental illness, bipolar mood disorder, other mood disorders, personality disorders, abuse victims of multiple sources, attachment disorders, sick and healthy religion and spiritually.
My job is to help people live happier lives. My office is a continuing education service for all who enter. The goal for me, and hopefully for the person I am working with, is to learn from each other through the change agent of conversation. After 40 years of experience, my belief is that humans never really change until what they have done is working anymore, is broken, and/or gone. Thus change begins with loss, some small and some life ending. At these moments of transition, learning how to let go is the lesson, whether we like it or not. Whatever big change you are going through, positive or negative begins with an ending.
(210) 664-4392 View (210) 664-4392
Photo of Maria Fishel, PhD, LSSP, Psychologist
Maria Fishel
Psychologist, PhD, LSSP
Verified Verified
Lakeway, TX 78734
While I work on common issues, such as depression ( bipolar and unipolar), anxiety, and life transitions, I also specialize in neurodiverse populations, such as Autism Spectrum Disorders (including Asperger's Syndrome) and ADD/ADHD.
Overwhelmed? Tired of the same old patterns in your life? Doubting yourself or your decisions? Lost hope? Feeling disconnected from others and your goals? Let me be your guide through life's intersections. I believe we all can benefit from professional support at some point in our lives. Why not start now? My approach is supportive, empathetic, direct, and collaborative. I tailor my counseling to your needs. I welcome traditional and nontraditional individuals, and anyone who feels marginalized, isolated, or undervalued. Together, we'll work on building connections and finding solutions, one step at a time.
While I work on common issues, such as depression ( bipolar and unipolar), anxiety, and life transitions, I also specialize in neurodiverse populations, such as Autism Spectrum Disorders (including Asperger's Syndrome) and ADD/ADHD.
Overwhelmed? Tired of the same old patterns in your life? Doubting yourself or your decisions? Lost hope? Feeling disconnected from others and your goals? Let me be your guide through life's intersections. I believe we all can benefit from professional support at some point in our lives. Why not start now? My approach is supportive, empathetic, direct, and collaborative. I tailor my counseling to your needs. I welcome traditional and nontraditional individuals, and anyone who feels marginalized, isolated, or undervalued. Together, we'll work on building connections and finding solutions, one step at a time.
(512) 649-2180 View (512) 649-2180
Photo of Dr. Amanda Strivings; Striving Onward Counseling Services, PhD, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Amanda Strivings; Striving Onward Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78732  (Online Only)
Accepting clients! Striving Onward Counseling Services offers therapy for adult individuals and couples. Equipped to serve clients struggling with PTSD, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, complex trauma, military-related issues, assertiveness issues, marriage issues, bipolar disorder and more. I am committed to ethical practice, confidentiality, and respect for diversity. I aim to create a safe, non-judgmental space to explore challenges and foster personal growth to help you begin your journey of Striving Onward toward meaning and purpose in your life!
Accepting clients! Striving Onward Counseling Services offers therapy for adult individuals and couples. Equipped to serve clients struggling with PTSD, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, complex trauma, military-related issues, assertiveness issues, marriage issues, bipolar disorder and more. I am committed to ethical practice, confidentiality, and respect for diversity. I aim to create a safe, non-judgmental space to explore challenges and foster personal growth to help you begin your journey of Striving Onward toward meaning and purpose in your life!
(830) 218-1929 View (830) 218-1929
Photo of Heather Teel, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heather Teel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78734
I have worked with both couples and individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, trauma recovery, addiction issues, relationship issues, family of origin concerns and sexuality and gender issues.
I believe in therapy. It helps us become unstuck, freeing us to move closer towards our goals and who we want to be. It allows us to begin healing from our past and transforms how we feel and act in our current relationships. It gives us support in times of crisis and stress, allowing us to become even more resilient in the future. And it frees us from habitual patterns that cause suffering in our lives.
I have worked with both couples and individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, trauma recovery, addiction issues, relationship issues, family of origin concerns and sexuality and gender issues.
I believe in therapy. It helps us become unstuck, freeing us to move closer towards our goals and who we want to be. It allows us to begin healing from our past and transforms how we feel and act in our current relationships. It gives us support in times of crisis and stress, allowing us to become even more resilient in the future. And it frees us from habitual patterns that cause suffering in our lives.
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Photo of Audry Steele, MA,  LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Audry Steele
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Lakeway, TX 78738
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 Tony Vitela - Tony Vitela, LCSW, SAP, LCSW, SAP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tony Vitela, LCSW, SAP
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SAP
Verified Verified
Bee Cave, TX 78738
I work with clients on a spectrum of issues including ADD/ADHD/ODD, Alcohol & Drugs, Anger Management, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorders, Conduct Disorders, Depression, Eating Disorders, Grief & Bereveavement, Life Transitions, Military Life Issues, OCD, Panic Atttacks, Parenting, Phobias, Psychotic Disorders, PTSD, Relationships, and Work-related Issues.
Licensed since 1993 and in private practice since 1999. Previous work-related experience includes working at a residential treatment center, youth shelter, juvenile detention center, chemical dependency unit, adolescent and adult in-patient hospital, Employee Assistance Program, crisis intervention, in-take assessments, and intensive out-patient programming. Over the past two decades, I have served individuals, couples, families, children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly. I am a certified and approved DOT Substance Abuse Professional.
I work with clients on a spectrum of issues including ADD/ADHD/ODD, Alcohol & Drugs, Anger Management, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorders, Conduct Disorders, Depression, Eating Disorders, Grief & Bereveavement, Life Transitions, Military Life Issues, OCD, Panic Atttacks, Parenting, Phobias, Psychotic Disorders, PTSD, Relationships, and Work-related Issues.
Licensed since 1993 and in private practice since 1999. Previous work-related experience includes working at a residential treatment center, youth shelter, juvenile detention center, chemical dependency unit, adolescent and adult in-patient hospital, Employee Assistance Program, crisis intervention, in-take assessments, and intensive out-patient programming. Over the past two decades, I have served individuals, couples, families, children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly. I am a certified and approved DOT Substance Abuse Professional.
(210) 941-2132 View (210) 941-2132
Photo of Kelly Pedersen, MA, LPC-S, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kelly Pedersen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, PLLC
Verified Verified
Lakeway, TX 78734  (Online Only)
I have been in private practice for 16 years and offer psychotherapy for adults 21 and over. I work with a broad range of issues including depression, anxiety, OCD, loss and relationship concerns. I incorporate faith-based principles as desired and am inclusive of all backgrounds and orientations. Typically, I work from a cognitive-behavioral approach and I include other theoretical frameworks to provide more effective outcomes. It would truly be my honor and privilege to help anyone seeking growth and fulfillment in life.
I have been in private practice for 16 years and offer psychotherapy for adults 21 and over. I work with a broad range of issues including depression, anxiety, OCD, loss and relationship concerns. I incorporate faith-based principles as desired and am inclusive of all backgrounds and orientations. Typically, I work from a cognitive-behavioral approach and I include other theoretical frameworks to provide more effective outcomes. It would truly be my honor and privilege to help anyone seeking growth and fulfillment in life.
(512) 546-6747 View (512) 546-6747
Photo of Suzanne Jones, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Suzanne Jones
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78734
Hello. I am happy you are checking out my profile for the possibility of working together. I was first licensed as a Marriage Family Therapist in California in 2006. I lived in the San Francisco Bay Area for 24 years and have now relocated back to Central Texas where I grew up. I attended John F Kennedy University and Graduated with a Masters in Counseling Psychology and a Certificate in Addictions Studies. I am passionate about assisting individuals to achieve their maximum potential in all areas of their lives. Are you questioning if substance abuse is interfering with your life? Are your relationships suffering?
Hello. I am happy you are checking out my profile for the possibility of working together. I was first licensed as a Marriage Family Therapist in California in 2006. I lived in the San Francisco Bay Area for 24 years and have now relocated back to Central Texas where I grew up. I attended John F Kennedy University and Graduated with a Masters in Counseling Psychology and a Certificate in Addictions Studies. I am passionate about assisting individuals to achieve their maximum potential in all areas of their lives. Are you questioning if substance abuse is interfering with your life? Are your relationships suffering?
(512) 515-3800 View (512) 515-3800
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.