Photo of Rhonda Kay Fousek - Triple C EAP Equine Assisted Therapy-Rhonda Fousek, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Triple C EAP Equine Assisted Therapy-Rhonda Fousek
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Vanderpool, TX 78885
In this crazy, non predictable world are you anxious, angry or overwhelmed? Are you more stressed, avoiding others, or are you to the point of calling it quits? Are you dealing with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, ADHD, PTSD, trauma or abuse. I believe we learn survival skills from our past that affect your present relationships, but are no longer heathy & we feel stuck. I am a Christian Therapist for over 20years. There is HOPE. God is a God of attachments and HE says it is not good to be alone. HE has given me to passion and HIS knowledge and HIS Wisdom to help you walk through this journey. You are not alone.
In this crazy, non predictable world are you anxious, angry or overwhelmed? Are you more stressed, avoiding others, or are you to the point of calling it quits? Are you dealing with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, ADHD, PTSD, trauma or abuse. I believe we learn survival skills from our past that affect your present relationships, but are no longer heathy & we feel stuck. I am a Christian Therapist for over 20years. There is HOPE. God is a God of attachments and HE says it is not good to be alone. HE has given me to passion and HIS knowledge and HIS Wisdom to help you walk through this journey. You are not alone.
(830) 433-8946 View (830) 433-8946

Online Therapists

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
Wimberley, TX 78676
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 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
Marble Falls, TX 78654
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 Sabah Ali, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sabah Ali
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78260
My name is Sabah Ali. I am a licensed professional counselor and have been practicing therapy since 2014. I have high levels of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly facing Anxiety, Depression, Relationship Issues, Stress, and Bipolar Disorder. My therapeutic approaches are Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Solution Focused Brief (SFBT), Client-Centered Therapy, Couples Therapy, and Supportive Therapy. I genuinely believe that the obstacles of your past can become the gateways that lead to new beginnings.
My name is Sabah Ali. I am a licensed professional counselor and have been practicing therapy since 2014. I have high levels of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly facing Anxiety, Depression, Relationship Issues, Stress, and Bipolar Disorder. My therapeutic approaches are Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Solution Focused Brief (SFBT), Client-Centered Therapy, Couples Therapy, and Supportive Therapy. I genuinely believe that the obstacles of your past can become the gateways that lead to new beginnings.
(254) 875-0421 View (254) 875-0421
Photo of Carolyn McWilliams, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Carolyn McWilliams
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78209
I have extensive experience serving people with serious mental struggles like Schizophrenia, Bipolar, and Trauma.
Human connection is the number one protective factor in mental health and in our increasingly virtual lives, this can be very difficult. Disconnection is leading us into unprecedented levels of Depression, Anxiety, and Addiction. Are you looking for connection and greater contentment in your life? Or perhaps you have been surviving with a serious mental health condition such as Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, or Trauma for quite some time and are looking for relief. Take the time to prioritize your wellness by seeking support. If you are ready to gain deeper self-understanding and build a life that you love, I am here to help.
I have extensive experience serving people with serious mental struggles like Schizophrenia, Bipolar, and Trauma.
Human connection is the number one protective factor in mental health and in our increasingly virtual lives, this can be very difficult. Disconnection is leading us into unprecedented levels of Depression, Anxiety, and Addiction. Are you looking for connection and greater contentment in your life? Or perhaps you have been surviving with a serious mental health condition such as Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, or Trauma for quite some time and are looking for relief. Take the time to prioritize your wellness by seeking support. If you are ready to gain deeper self-understanding and build a life that you love, I am here to help.
(210) 899-7191 View (210) 899-7191
Photo of Teri Johnson Psychotherapist, MA , LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Teri Johnson Psychotherapist
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA , LPC-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78228
Screening and treatment for Bipolar, Borderline Personality, Narcissistic Personality, Anti Social Personality, Histrionic Personality, Anxiety, Depression, Austism, and ADHD for children and adults.
Accepting new clients. With over 13 years of experience, I have a passion for helping others discover their best selves. Fears, anxieties, and difficult circumstances can leave us feeling stuck and hold us back from living the life we truly want. I join with my clients to explore barriers and overcome them to create a sense of peace and wholeness. Therapy is the most beneficial when we engage in meaningful discussion and exploration of your thoughts, feelings, beliefs, and life history. My goal with clients is to help them arrive at a place where they feel comfortable, secure, and empowered to be themselves.
Screening and treatment for Bipolar, Borderline Personality, Narcissistic Personality, Anti Social Personality, Histrionic Personality, Anxiety, Depression, Austism, and ADHD for children and adults.
Accepting new clients. With over 13 years of experience, I have a passion for helping others discover their best selves. Fears, anxieties, and difficult circumstances can leave us feeling stuck and hold us back from living the life we truly want. I join with my clients to explore barriers and overcome them to create a sense of peace and wholeness. Therapy is the most beneficial when we engage in meaningful discussion and exploration of your thoughts, feelings, beliefs, and life history. My goal with clients is to help them arrive at a place where they feel comfortable, secure, and empowered to be themselves.
(210) 920-8135 View (210) 920-8135
Photo of Kimberly Thomas, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kimberly Thomas
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Helotes, TX 78023  (Online Only)
I have also spent many hours working with adult and teen clients struggling with parenting/family issues, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, bipolar, anger management, and more!.
I recognize that you are the expert on you. My desire is to work collaboratively with you to enable you to reach your identified goals. If you are worried you can't afford counseling, please discuss your concerns with me. I will work with you as much as possible!
I have also spent many hours working with adult and teen clients struggling with parenting/family issues, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, bipolar, anger management, and more!.
I recognize that you are the expert on you. My desire is to work collaboratively with you to enable you to reach your identified goals. If you are worried you can't afford counseling, please discuss your concerns with me. I will work with you as much as possible!
(325) 240-5605 View (325) 240-5605
Photo of Nancy Recalde, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nancy Recalde
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78249
My specialty is mood disorders, depression, anxiety, bipolar and trauma.
I believe that we are created with potential for balance and harmony, however, life is not always easy, we may struggle at times to reach this balance. When we get "stuck" or face difficult challenges, we must first identify which areas of life need adjusting or strengthening, and then, we set out to make the necessary changes. Whether it is physical, emotional, spiritual or mental unbalance, we can positively impact our lives by starting to work in one area, and, since they are all connected, the rest will follow. The mind-body connection is undeniable, research and science favor an integrated approach to behavioral health.
My specialty is mood disorders, depression, anxiety, bipolar and trauma.
I believe that we are created with potential for balance and harmony, however, life is not always easy, we may struggle at times to reach this balance. When we get "stuck" or face difficult challenges, we must first identify which areas of life need adjusting or strengthening, and then, we set out to make the necessary changes. Whether it is physical, emotional, spiritual or mental unbalance, we can positively impact our lives by starting to work in one area, and, since they are all connected, the rest will follow. The mind-body connection is undeniable, research and science favor an integrated approach to behavioral health.
(833) 721-1255 View (833) 721-1255
Photo of Elizeth J. Chavez, PhD, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Elizeth J. Chavez
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78245  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Book with me now by clicking on my website. I have more than 12 years providing psychotherapy and psychological assessments to children, adolescents, and adults. I specialize in treating PTSD, depression, bipolar disorder, stress, sleep problems, OCD, and various anxiety disorders. I also specialize in psychological diagnostic evaluations for ADHD, learning disabilities, mood disorders, anxiety, PTSD, and personality disorders. My treatment entails a collaborative approach built on a strong therapeutic alliance using evidenced based modalities including cognitive behavioral therapy and acceptance and commitment therapy.
Book with me now by clicking on my website. I have more than 12 years providing psychotherapy and psychological assessments to children, adolescents, and adults. I specialize in treating PTSD, depression, bipolar disorder, stress, sleep problems, OCD, and various anxiety disorders. I also specialize in psychological diagnostic evaluations for ADHD, learning disabilities, mood disorders, anxiety, PTSD, and personality disorders. My treatment entails a collaborative approach built on a strong therapeutic alliance using evidenced based modalities including cognitive behavioral therapy and acceptance and commitment therapy.
(830) 541-7902 View (830) 541-7902
Photo of Valerie A Martin - Custom Counseling, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Custom Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78258  (Online Only)
STOP! My name is Valerie and I'd like to be your therapist. In my 20+ years' experience as a counselor, I've worked with a variety of people with a multitude of issues from depression and anxiety to chronic illness. My practice is 100% tele counseling so this will ensure that I can accommodate your schedule. I am not contracted with insurance and am self-pay. For this reason, I'm willing work on a sliding scale to accommodate your budget. Feel free to call me so we can get started and I look forward to speaking with you.
STOP! My name is Valerie and I'd like to be your therapist. In my 20+ years' experience as a counselor, I've worked with a variety of people with a multitude of issues from depression and anxiety to chronic illness. My practice is 100% tele counseling so this will ensure that I can accommodate your schedule. I am not contracted with insurance and am self-pay. For this reason, I'm willing work on a sliding scale to accommodate your budget. Feel free to call me so we can get started and I look forward to speaking with you.
(210) 625-5863 View (210) 625-5863
Photo of Janet Lantry, LCSW-S, RYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Janet Lantry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, RYT
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78228  (Online Only)
Are you seeking relief and improved functioning, using evidence-based approaches and an integration of the mind and body? Janet specializes in treating PTSD, depression, anxiety, insomnia, relationship conflict, substance use disorders, and uses play therapy as a primary modality when working with children. She is certified in EMDR. She works with all genders, including people who identify as transgender and non-binary and members of the LGBTQIA+ community. Janet also has extensive experience working with veterans, active duty service members, and their families, with a unique empathy for being a military child.
Are you seeking relief and improved functioning, using evidence-based approaches and an integration of the mind and body? Janet specializes in treating PTSD, depression, anxiety, insomnia, relationship conflict, substance use disorders, and uses play therapy as a primary modality when working with children. She is certified in EMDR. She works with all genders, including people who identify as transgender and non-binary and members of the LGBTQIA+ community. Janet also has extensive experience working with veterans, active duty service members, and their families, with a unique empathy for being a military child.
(210) 981-3936 View (210) 981-3936
Photo of Jacqueline Gutierrez, MS, LPC, NCC
Jacqueline Gutierrez
MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78229
Life can be overwhelming, and sometimes it feels like you’re just going through the motions. Let me help you reconnect with yourself. I work with children, teens, and adults who are struggling to find themselves - whether it be due to trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, or relationship issues. Let’s collaborate to forge a new path ahead for yourself. You don’t have to just survive - you deserve to thrive. I utilize a person-centered approach to cultivate empathy and understanding. I strive to create a safe and secure space for you to be vulnerable without feeling judgment.
Life can be overwhelming, and sometimes it feels like you’re just going through the motions. Let me help you reconnect with yourself. I work with children, teens, and adults who are struggling to find themselves - whether it be due to trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, or relationship issues. Let’s collaborate to forge a new path ahead for yourself. You don’t have to just survive - you deserve to thrive. I utilize a person-centered approach to cultivate empathy and understanding. I strive to create a safe and secure space for you to be vulnerable without feeling judgment.
(210) 361-3805 View (210) 361-3805
Photo of Beatriz Alexandra DuMars - San Antonio Counseling and Behavioral Center, MA, LPC, NCC, CAS, Licensed Professional Counselor
San Antonio Counseling and Behavioral Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, CAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78229
For 14 years, I have treated clients with a wide range of behavioral, emotional, and developmental challenges such as depression, anxiety, anger problems, relationship problems, parenting issues, and academic problems. I enjoy working with young children, adolescents, and families. I truly believe that people can achieve happiness and fulfilment through mental and physical health. Because I have a strong passion for helping others, I strive to create strong therapeutic relationship with each of my clients. To facilitate change, I strive to provide a safe, trusting environment characterized by warmth, acceptance, and empathy.
For 14 years, I have treated clients with a wide range of behavioral, emotional, and developmental challenges such as depression, anxiety, anger problems, relationship problems, parenting issues, and academic problems. I enjoy working with young children, adolescents, and families. I truly believe that people can achieve happiness and fulfilment through mental and physical health. Because I have a strong passion for helping others, I strive to create strong therapeutic relationship with each of my clients. To facilitate change, I strive to provide a safe, trusting environment characterized by warmth, acceptance, and empathy.
(210) 940-2630 View (210) 940-2630
Photo of Mary Ann Sieracki - New Directions Counseling Services, LLC, MS, LPC, LSOTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
New Directions Counseling Services, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LSOTP
Verified Verified
Floresville, TX 78114
Deciding to seek counseling is difficult, but it is the first step towards making positive changes in your life. It is a means to develop insight that can then help you grow in new, positive ways. As a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Sex Offender Treatment Provider, I can help guide you towards the resolution of problems of an emotional or interpersonal nature. I can assist you towards gaining empowerment over your life and your decisions in a safe, therapeutic and supportive atmosphere.
Deciding to seek counseling is difficult, but it is the first step towards making positive changes in your life. It is a means to develop insight that can then help you grow in new, positive ways. As a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Sex Offender Treatment Provider, I can help guide you towards the resolution of problems of an emotional or interpersonal nature. I can assist you towards gaining empowerment over your life and your decisions in a safe, therapeutic and supportive atmosphere.
(830) 637-7593 View (830) 637-7593
Photo of Brianna Gonzalez, MS, LPC, Counselor
Brianna Gonzalez
Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bulverde, TX 78163
You are hurting, and looking for relief from the pain and confusion. Maybe you are up late looking for an answer, courageously calling for help for the first time, or struggling with stepping into counseling again. I am passionate about offering that help, and am dedicated to assisting individuals of all backgrounds attain their utmost potential, overcome life's varying challenges, strengthen relationships, and feel a deeper sense of satisfaction with their lives.
You are hurting, and looking for relief from the pain and confusion. Maybe you are up late looking for an answer, courageously calling for help for the first time, or struggling with stepping into counseling again. I am passionate about offering that help, and am dedicated to assisting individuals of all backgrounds attain their utmost potential, overcome life's varying challenges, strengthen relationships, and feel a deeper sense of satisfaction with their lives.
(972) 457-3109 View (972) 457-3109
Photo of Ellen Nessner, MS, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ellen Nessner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Marble Falls, TX 78654
It takes personal courage to seek help of any type. Please congratulate yourself for reaching out to a professional to assist you in sorting life’s difficulties into positive change. While change is difficult and takes courage, with support and compassion, it can be part of anyone’s life. I would be honored to be a part of that change with you.
It takes personal courage to seek help of any type. Please congratulate yourself for reaching out to a professional to assist you in sorting life’s difficulties into positive change. While change is difficult and takes courage, with support and compassion, it can be part of anyone’s life. I would be honored to be a part of that change with you.
(737) 339-8323 View (737) 339-8323
Photo of Rhonda Katan, RN, FMP, BCBC, CLC, Lic Min
Rhonda Katan
RN, FMP, BCBC, CLC, Lic Min
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78254
I completed the following degrees, licenses, & certifications to provide comprehensive care for clients: Registered Nurse, Functional Medicine Practitioner, Board-Certified Faith-Based Therapist, Psychology Graduate, Licensed Minister, & Certified Life/Wellness Coach. I am fundamentally motivated to lead others to overcome challenges & odds as I serve them by offering advice, education, treatment & emotional support helping to make an impact that produces positive substantial changes in their lives. In addition, I utilize labs and licensed pharmaceutical-grade nutraceuticals to help my clients achieve better health.
I completed the following degrees, licenses, & certifications to provide comprehensive care for clients: Registered Nurse, Functional Medicine Practitioner, Board-Certified Faith-Based Therapist, Psychology Graduate, Licensed Minister, & Certified Life/Wellness Coach. I am fundamentally motivated to lead others to overcome challenges & odds as I serve them by offering advice, education, treatment & emotional support helping to make an impact that produces positive substantial changes in their lives. In addition, I utilize labs and licensed pharmaceutical-grade nutraceuticals to help my clients achieve better health.
(210) 796-2644 View (210) 796-2644
Photo of Britney Watson Eglinton, MS, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Britney Watson Eglinton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78249  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience working with teens and adults of various ages processing trauma, depression, anxiety, attachment issues, relationship issues and difficult life transitions. My goal is to be supportive and encouraging to allow my clients to explore what is holding them back in life. My hope is that you feel seen and validated in each session. Therapy is a space where you can open up and identify any anxieties keeping you from being the best you can be. We all have it in us to rise up and take charge of our lives.
I have extensive experience working with teens and adults of various ages processing trauma, depression, anxiety, attachment issues, relationship issues and difficult life transitions. My goal is to be supportive and encouraging to allow my clients to explore what is holding them back in life. My hope is that you feel seen and validated in each session. Therapy is a space where you can open up and identify any anxieties keeping you from being the best you can be. We all have it in us to rise up and take charge of our lives.
(512) 883-8105 View (512) 883-8105
Photo of Clifton Fuller, LCSW-S, LPC-S, LMFT-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Clifton Fuller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, LPC-S, LMFT-S
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78230  (Online Only)
I provide counseling and coaching for those seeking personal growth, finding life direction, reaching goals, resolving issues, and moving forward in life. I work closely with those evaluating life, relationships, education, or career changes. I am a Certified Life Coach and hold multiple licenses: Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, Licensed Professional Counselor, Approved Supervisor for LPC, LMFT, & LCSW's. Authored: "Marriage Vampire-Living with a Narcissist" and "The Narcissist: When Dreams Become Nightmares" (both available on Amazon.com in paperback or Kindle formats).
I provide counseling and coaching for those seeking personal growth, finding life direction, reaching goals, resolving issues, and moving forward in life. I work closely with those evaluating life, relationships, education, or career changes. I am a Certified Life Coach and hold multiple licenses: Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, Licensed Professional Counselor, Approved Supervisor for LPC, LMFT, & LCSW's. Authored: "Marriage Vampire-Living with a Narcissist" and "The Narcissist: When Dreams Become Nightmares" (both available on Amazon.com in paperback or Kindle formats).
(210) 598-5053 View (210) 598-5053
Photo of Teri Johnson - Advanced Counseling Services , Licensed Professional Counselor
Advanced Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78228
We are a group of friendly experienced therapists who evaluate, diagnose and treat all mood disorders, behavioral disorders, and trauma from age 3- 99 years old.
We are a group of friendly experienced therapists who evaluate, diagnose and treat all mood disorders, behavioral disorders, and trauma from age 3- 99 years old.
(210) 940-3844 View (210) 940-3844
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.