Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Princeton, TX

Photo of Joellen Walter LPC, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Princeton, TX
Joellen Walter LPC, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Princeton, TX 75407
My ideal client is one that wants to work on themselves and seeks change. I am directive, interactive and straightforward in my approach. Education, a sense of humor, feedback and curiosity are important in working with clients. My clients are often high functioning free thinkers. Learning to challenge the your internal status quo can often be challenging and scary. Clients I attract are stressed out executives having issues at home, work and with relationships , young adults who are trying to figure out what they want in life, and addicts of any sort who find themselves stuck, "Thinking is this all there is in life?"
My ideal client is one that wants to work on themselves and seeks change. I am directive, interactive and straightforward in my approach. Education, a sense of humor, feedback and curiosity are important in working with clients. My clients are often high functioning free thinkers. Learning to challenge the your internal status quo can often be challenging and scary. Clients I attract are stressed out executives having issues at home, work and with relationships , young adults who are trying to figure out what they want in life, and addicts of any sort who find themselves stuck, "Thinking is this all there is in life?"
(469) 306-0354 View (469) 306-0354
Photo of Disordered Eating And Trauma And Ptsd - Ayesha Savant, Licensed Professional Counselor in Princeton, TX
Disordered Eating And Trauma And Ptsd - Ayesha Savant
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Princeton, TX 75407  (Online Only)
Seeking clarity in therapy can leave you feeling supported and be relieving. As a licensed professional counselor in Texas, I provide virtual therapy for adult individuals. When you experience symptoms such as low moods, triggering thoughts and body image distress, this may lead you to feel overwhelmed with anxiety, depression or even stress and fatigue. Many people suffer in silence and avoid working on their thinking patterns which can lead to more challenging emotions like guilt, shame and unworthiness that can reinforce dysfunctional beliefs and behaviors endlessly.
Seeking clarity in therapy can leave you feeling supported and be relieving. As a licensed professional counselor in Texas, I provide virtual therapy for adult individuals. When you experience symptoms such as low moods, triggering thoughts and body image distress, this may lead you to feel overwhelmed with anxiety, depression or even stress and fatigue. Many people suffer in silence and avoid working on their thinking patterns which can lead to more challenging emotions like guilt, shame and unworthiness that can reinforce dysfunctional beliefs and behaviors endlessly.
(214) 974-3926 View (214) 974-3926
Photo of Megan Novak in Princeton, TX
Megan Novak
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Princeton, TX 75407
Finding the right fitting counselor, someone you click with can be challenging. Break away from the usual counseling approach with a neurodivergent, person-centered, and LGBTQ-affirming counselor. With a blend of professional expertise and personal understanding, I specialize in autistic adults, ADHD, trauma, and dissociation (DID/OSDD). Learn to navigate your goals, responsibilities, and relationships with newfound confidence and joy as we celebrate your authentic self and empower you to advocate for your needs.
Finding the right fitting counselor, someone you click with can be challenging. Break away from the usual counseling approach with a neurodivergent, person-centered, and LGBTQ-affirming counselor. With a blend of professional expertise and personal understanding, I specialize in autistic adults, ADHD, trauma, and dissociation (DID/OSDD). Learn to navigate your goals, responsibilities, and relationships with newfound confidence and joy as we celebrate your authentic self and empower you to advocate for your needs.
(469) 871-7206 View (469) 871-7206

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Nadia T. Hasan, Psychologist in Princeton, TX
Nadia T. Hasan
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75069  (Online Only)
Sometimes life can be challenging, and you need support from an expert to help you feel better. I can help you recover from depression, bipolar disorder, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, OCD, panic disorders, grief/ loss, trauma, low self-esteem, academic stress, social identity concerns (racial, ethnic, sexual), interpersonal issues, relationship problems, and family concerns. I also provide psychological assessments and evaluations to diagnose learning disabilities, ADHD, disability, and PTSD.
Sometimes life can be challenging, and you need support from an expert to help you feel better. I can help you recover from depression, bipolar disorder, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, OCD, panic disorders, grief/ loss, trauma, low self-esteem, academic stress, social identity concerns (racial, ethnic, sexual), interpersonal issues, relationship problems, and family concerns. I also provide psychological assessments and evaluations to diagnose learning disabilities, ADHD, disability, and PTSD.
(361) 336-0766 View (361) 336-0766
Photo of Marci'a Blake, Licensed Professional Counselor in Princeton, TX
Marci'a Blake
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with nearly 15 years of experience helping people navigate the difficult seasons of life. I place a high value on rapport building and strongly believe that each client is an expert on themselves. I have a wide range of skills helping adolescents and adults with issues such as depression, anxiety, bipolar, grief and loss, borderline personality disorder, trauma, school related issues, adjustment and substance use disorders.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with nearly 15 years of experience helping people navigate the difficult seasons of life. I place a high value on rapport building and strongly believe that each client is an expert on themselves. I have a wide range of skills helping adolescents and adults with issues such as depression, anxiety, bipolar, grief and loss, borderline personality disorder, trauma, school related issues, adjustment and substance use disorders.
(469) 529-6022 View (469) 529-6022
Photo of Landry Therapy Group - Rockwall, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Princeton, TX
Landry Therapy Group - Rockwall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75069
We offer treatment services for marital/couple, anxiety, depression, PTSD, self-injury, suicidal ideation/attempt, bipolar disorder, lesbian, gay, bi-sexual, transgender issues, & general life stresses & stressors.
*TAKING NEW CLIENTS* Our goal as therapists is to form a bond of trust and commitment with our clients. With the proper support and guidance in their lives, we believe people have an inherent ability to persevere through any struggle with which they are confronted. Jerianne specializes in working with adults, individuals, couples, families, depression self harm/suicidal ideation, and LGBTQ. We help clients cope with life's daily struggles and/or issues resulting from trauma and conflict and to cultivate a healthier style of living to ensure future well-being.
We offer treatment services for marital/couple, anxiety, depression, PTSD, self-injury, suicidal ideation/attempt, bipolar disorder, lesbian, gay, bi-sexual, transgender issues, & general life stresses & stressors.
*TAKING NEW CLIENTS* Our goal as therapists is to form a bond of trust and commitment with our clients. With the proper support and guidance in their lives, we believe people have an inherent ability to persevere through any struggle with which they are confronted. Jerianne specializes in working with adults, individuals, couples, families, depression self harm/suicidal ideation, and LGBTQ. We help clients cope with life's daily struggles and/or issues resulting from trauma and conflict and to cultivate a healthier style of living to ensure future well-being.
(469) 423-8596 View (469) 423-8596
Photo of Krystal Wurm, Licensed Professional Counselor in Princeton, TX
Krystal Wurm
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75069  (Online Only)
My clients have successfully overcome or depression, anxiety, OCD, trauma, marital stress, parent-child difficulties, domestic violence, substance abuse, bipolar disorder, and anger issues.
I approach therapy as a partnership with my clients in which you are the ultimate decision-maker and I work with you to clear away obstacles and identify opportunities. My background in teaching and learning strategies as an educator and therapist help you to achieve your goals quickly and effectively. I use a non-judgemental approach in therapy that utilizes active listening in order to better understand your needs. My goal is to work on your treatment plan and goals in a way that does not cause dependency on me as the therapist but independence in your thoughts and behaviors. It is common for cli
My clients have successfully overcome or depression, anxiety, OCD, trauma, marital stress, parent-child difficulties, domestic violence, substance abuse, bipolar disorder, and anger issues.
I approach therapy as a partnership with my clients in which you are the ultimate decision-maker and I work with you to clear away obstacles and identify opportunities. My background in teaching and learning strategies as an educator and therapist help you to achieve your goals quickly and effectively. I use a non-judgemental approach in therapy that utilizes active listening in order to better understand your needs. My goal is to work on your treatment plan and goals in a way that does not cause dependency on me as the therapist but independence in your thoughts and behaviors. It is common for cli
(469) 551-8346 View (469) 551-8346
Photo of Dr. Kimberly Wilson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Princeton, TX
Dr. Kimberly Wilson
Licensed Professional Counselor, NMD, LPC, LMFT, LCDC, LMTI
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070
lifestyle/wellness / chronic pain/illness/cancer/insomnia / OCD/tics/hairpulling/skin picking / infidelity/sex therapy/sexuality / addiction recovery / bipolar/anxiety/depression / serious mental illness kimberlywilsonnmd.
I help those of all ages, families and individuals, with complex physical, mental, or emotional struggles. You do not have to be consumed by mental or physical pain. We will work through the unhealthy patterns in your life and give a new outlook and way to approach things. You deserve a naturally balanced and well life, mind, and body. You deserve the best care! You deserve to make sense of what is going on in your life and understand what is going on in your mind and body, so that you can overcome your challenges. Let's move forward today. kimberlywilsonnmd.com
lifestyle/wellness / chronic pain/illness/cancer/insomnia / OCD/tics/hairpulling/skin picking / infidelity/sex therapy/sexuality / addiction recovery / bipolar/anxiety/depression / serious mental illness kimberlywilsonnmd.
I help those of all ages, families and individuals, with complex physical, mental, or emotional struggles. You do not have to be consumed by mental or physical pain. We will work through the unhealthy patterns in your life and give a new outlook and way to approach things. You deserve a naturally balanced and well life, mind, and body. You deserve the best care! You deserve to make sense of what is going on in your life and understand what is going on in your mind and body, so that you can overcome your challenges. Let's move forward today. kimberlywilsonnmd.com
(972) 848-5290 View (972) 848-5290
Photo of Jennifer Brobst, Psychologist in Princeton, TX
Jennifer Brobst
Psychologist, PhD, LSSP
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75069
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and a Licensed Specialist in School Psychology. I love working with adults, teenagers, children, and families. I have experience helping patients with depression, anxiety, bipolar, autism and other developmental disabilities, OCD, ADHD, family concerns, parenting stress, career and academic concerns, as well as traumatic experiences. In addition, I have extensive experience in grief therapy during times of loss, such as in a time of death, divorce, and other significant life changes. I also enjoy working on goals of self-improvement, self-awareness, and compassion with my patients.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and a Licensed Specialist in School Psychology. I love working with adults, teenagers, children, and families. I have experience helping patients with depression, anxiety, bipolar, autism and other developmental disabilities, OCD, ADHD, family concerns, parenting stress, career and academic concerns, as well as traumatic experiences. In addition, I have extensive experience in grief therapy during times of loss, such as in a time of death, divorce, and other significant life changes. I also enjoy working on goals of self-improvement, self-awareness, and compassion with my patients.
(972) 833-0114 View (972) 833-0114
Photo of David L. Falkstein, Ph.D., & Associates, Psychologist in Princeton, TX
David L. Falkstein, Ph.D., & Associates
Psychologist, PhD, LSSP
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070
We have expertise in the areas of ADHD, depression, anxiety, Autism/Aspergers, dyslexia, learning disabilities, and emotional/behavioral disorders (anxiety, depression, Oppositional Defiant, and Bipolar Disorder).
Dr. Falkstein has worked in the mental health field since 1988 and has conducted several thousand evaluations over the past 25 years. Unlike most psychologists, Dr. Falkstein has experience and knowledge as a psychologist in private practice and as a school psychologist actually working in the schools. Dr. Falkstein has a clinical team that works with him that includes 6 other Psychologists and 4 Licensed Professional Counselors. We offer evaluation services and therapy services to children, adolescents, and adults.
We have expertise in the areas of ADHD, depression, anxiety, Autism/Aspergers, dyslexia, learning disabilities, and emotional/behavioral disorders (anxiety, depression, Oppositional Defiant, and Bipolar Disorder).
Dr. Falkstein has worked in the mental health field since 1988 and has conducted several thousand evaluations over the past 25 years. Unlike most psychologists, Dr. Falkstein has experience and knowledge as a psychologist in private practice and as a school psychologist actually working in the schools. Dr. Falkstein has a clinical team that works with him that includes 6 other Psychologists and 4 Licensed Professional Counselors. We offer evaluation services and therapy services to children, adolescents, and adults.
(214) 427-1468 View (214) 427-1468
Photo of Samantha Wilson, Psychological Associate in Princeton, TX
Samantha Wilson
Psychological Associate, MS, LPA, BCN
Verified Verified
Allen, TX 75002  (Online Only)
Samantha Wilson, M.S., LPA, earned her master’s degree in Clinical Psychology with a specialization in Neuropsychology from the University of Texas at Tyler. A clinician offering experience with child (10+), adolescent, adult individual psychotherapy and couples counseling, Samantha specializes in the treatment of trauma, PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder), depression, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, anxiety, various mood disorders, sexual abuse and relationship concerns. She is well versed in Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), depression and anxiety due to childhood trauma.
Samantha Wilson, M.S., LPA, earned her master’s degree in Clinical Psychology with a specialization in Neuropsychology from the University of Texas at Tyler. A clinician offering experience with child (10+), adolescent, adult individual psychotherapy and couples counseling, Samantha specializes in the treatment of trauma, PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder), depression, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, anxiety, various mood disorders, sexual abuse and relationship concerns. She is well versed in Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), depression and anxiety due to childhood trauma.
(972) 498-1670 View (972) 498-1670
Photo of Monica (Love The Beach) Ferraro, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Princeton, TX
Monica (Love The Beach) Ferraro
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, CA AMFT, MA/EMDR, DV/P&V, IFS, NP, TX LPCA
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75071  (Online Only)
Welcome Couples and young adults ready to make the "shifts" in life to find THE thing that you're missing. First step, awareness; then reflection and finally forward thinking options. It's scary, but let's examine what is and tackle the fear; THIS is where the biggest growth begins! Neuroplasticity is the tool; you have it. I work with trauma, anxiety, bipolar, depression, grief, sexual abuse/rape, addiction, nonstop thoughts, low self esteem and nightmares. Is peace worth seeking? Let's get after it CA and Texas!
Welcome Couples and young adults ready to make the "shifts" in life to find THE thing that you're missing. First step, awareness; then reflection and finally forward thinking options. It's scary, but let's examine what is and tackle the fear; THIS is where the biggest growth begins! Neuroplasticity is the tool; you have it. I work with trauma, anxiety, bipolar, depression, grief, sexual abuse/rape, addiction, nonstop thoughts, low self esteem and nightmares. Is peace worth seeking? Let's get after it CA and Texas!
(619) 259-6498 View (619) 259-6498
Photo of Hope In Motion, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Princeton, TX
Hope In Motion, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CCATP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75070  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas. I received my B.S in Clinical/Applied Psychology and my M.S in Clinical/Applied Psychology from Texas A&M University-Commerce. Additionally, I am a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional (CCATP). Throughout my career, I have had experience working with adolescents (16+) and young adults who have depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, gender/identity struggles, and life adjustment stressors.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas. I received my B.S in Clinical/Applied Psychology and my M.S in Clinical/Applied Psychology from Texas A&M University-Commerce. Additionally, I am a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional (CCATP). Throughout my career, I have had experience working with adolescents (16+) and young adults who have depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, gender/identity struggles, and life adjustment stressors.
(214) 865-7553 View (214) 865-7553
Photo of Barbara Armitage, Licensed Professional Counselor in Princeton, TX
Barbara Armitage
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LPC-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Allen, TX 75002
I specialize in various life challenges, such as: depression, anxiety, stress, bipolar disorder, abuse, grief/loss issues, communication problems and relationship issues.
It is my intention and my hope to bring warmth, comfort, skill, mindfulness, confidentiality and good humor into each client partnership.
I specialize in various life challenges, such as: depression, anxiety, stress, bipolar disorder, abuse, grief/loss issues, communication problems and relationship issues.
It is my intention and my hope to bring warmth, comfort, skill, mindfulness, confidentiality and good humor into each client partnership.
(469) 844-4258 View (469) 844-4258
Photo of Jordan Doyle, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Princeton, TX
Jordan Doyle
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75071
There's an exhaustion and isolation that often come with mental health struggles. It’s easy to feel trapped in a cycle, simultaneously yearning for change and fearing it – especially when the cycle involves suicidal ideation, self-harm, substance use, addiction, or disordered eating. They all become ingrained in one's identity, making the idea of letting go terrifying. I want my clients to know there's more to them than their struggles. I'm here to support and guide them as they uncover their resilience and empowerment underneath the depression, anxiety, bipolar, trauma, and PTSD.
There's an exhaustion and isolation that often come with mental health struggles. It’s easy to feel trapped in a cycle, simultaneously yearning for change and fearing it – especially when the cycle involves suicidal ideation, self-harm, substance use, addiction, or disordered eating. They all become ingrained in one's identity, making the idea of letting go terrifying. I want my clients to know there's more to them than their struggles. I'm here to support and guide them as they uncover their resilience and empowerment underneath the depression, anxiety, bipolar, trauma, and PTSD.
(469) 645-8944 View (469) 645-8944
Photo of Eleonora Bass, Psychologist in Princeton, TX
Eleonora Bass
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75070
Accepting new patients! Available for psychological testing only. Dr. Eleonora Bass, Psy.D is a multi-lingual (English, Spanish, Russian, Italian), licensed psychologist with a range of clinical experience in the US and abroad. Dr. Bass has experience doing evaluations with children, adolescents, and adults struggling with mood disorders (anxiety, depression, bipolar), personality disorders, ADHD, learning disabilities, trauma, substance abuse, anger management, adult ASD, chronic pain, and life changes. She completed her clinical trainings in Houston, Massachusetts, Costa Rica, Israel, and Ecuador.
Accepting new patients! Available for psychological testing only. Dr. Eleonora Bass, Psy.D is a multi-lingual (English, Spanish, Russian, Italian), licensed psychologist with a range of clinical experience in the US and abroad. Dr. Bass has experience doing evaluations with children, adolescents, and adults struggling with mood disorders (anxiety, depression, bipolar), personality disorders, ADHD, learning disabilities, trauma, substance abuse, anger management, adult ASD, chronic pain, and life changes. She completed her clinical trainings in Houston, Massachusetts, Costa Rica, Israel, and Ecuador.
(214) 253-8710 View (214) 253-8710
Photo of Kate Whitley, Licensed Professional Counselor in Princeton, TX
Kate Whitley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070
I specialize in treating children, adolescents, and adults facing trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, and parenting or co-parenting challenges. I believe in helping you develop a deeper understanding of yourself. Additionally, I work with individuals dealing with ADHD, borderline personality disorder, and bipolar disorder.
I specialize in treating children, adolescents, and adults facing trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, and parenting or co-parenting challenges. I believe in helping you develop a deeper understanding of yourself. Additionally, I work with individuals dealing with ADHD, borderline personality disorder, and bipolar disorder.
(512) 768-2731 View (512) 768-2731
Photo of Pam Flint, Psychologist in Princeton, TX
Pam Flint
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070
I work with a variety of issues including: depression, anxiety, grief, relationship issues, career counseling, spirituality, divorce, OCD, Panic Disorder, and Bipolar Disorder.
I work with adult clients dealing with a variety of issues. My previous career was as a registered nurse, which affords me comprehensive knowledge about psychiatric medications prescribed by your PCP or psychiatrist. I worked for over 20 years, full-time at the University of North Texas as a staff psychologist, Assistant Professor in the psychology department, and later transitioned to the Clinical Director of the Counseling Center. Please visit my website to learn more about my training, experience and professional services I offer. Drpamflint.com If interested in my children's book, you can check it out www.roxythetherapydog.com
I work with a variety of issues including: depression, anxiety, grief, relationship issues, career counseling, spirituality, divorce, OCD, Panic Disorder, and Bipolar Disorder.
I work with adult clients dealing with a variety of issues. My previous career was as a registered nurse, which affords me comprehensive knowledge about psychiatric medications prescribed by your PCP or psychiatrist. I worked for over 20 years, full-time at the University of North Texas as a staff psychologist, Assistant Professor in the psychology department, and later transitioned to the Clinical Director of the Counseling Center. Please visit my website to learn more about my training, experience and professional services I offer. Drpamflint.com If interested in my children's book, you can check it out www.roxythetherapydog.com
(469) 702-8381 View (469) 702-8381
Photo of Laurie Todd, Licensed Professional Counselor in Princeton, TX
Laurie Todd
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Allen, TX 75002
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor in the state of Texas. I graduated with a MS in Counseling from Southern Methodist University. Throughout my career I have had experience in working with clients who have depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, dissociative identity disorder, schizoaffective disorder, gender/identity struggles, life adjustment stressors, grief, phobias, and PTSD/trauma. I am trained to treat clients with PTSD and trauma through Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM).
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor in the state of Texas. I graduated with a MS in Counseling from Southern Methodist University. Throughout my career I have had experience in working with clients who have depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, dissociative identity disorder, schizoaffective disorder, gender/identity struggles, life adjustment stressors, grief, phobias, and PTSD/trauma. I am trained to treat clients with PTSD and trauma through Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM).
(702) 766-4674 View (702) 766-4674
Photo of Dana Sutter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Princeton, TX
Dana Sutter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75070
Are you struggling with overwhelming thoughts and fears? Do you feel alone in your battles with anxiety and trauma? Are feelings of isolation and loneliness weighing heavy on you, yet you struggle to muster the courage to seek support?
Are you struggling with overwhelming thoughts and fears? Do you feel alone in your battles with anxiety and trauma? Are feelings of isolation and loneliness weighing heavy on you, yet you struggle to muster the courage to seek support?
(737) 258-2447 View (737) 258-2447

See more therapy options for Princeton

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.