Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Alexander City, AL

Photo of Karla Rae Ver Meer, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alexander City, AL
Karla Rae Ver Meer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Alexander City, AL 35010
Now licensed in Alabama, Colorado and Texas! After 13 years of private practice in Colorado, my Alabama office is open! Education & learning new skills are significant components of my approach. I'm relational & easy to talk to about even the most difficult issues of life. I specialize in trauma, depression, anxiety, personality disorders, spiritual & relational issues, & severe mental illnesses, such as bipolar disorder. I am certified in EMDR. Pysch & personality assessments are available to identify strengths & areas for growth. I enjoy working with teens & adults, male or female. I love to renew hope when it seems lost.
Now licensed in Alabama, Colorado and Texas! After 13 years of private practice in Colorado, my Alabama office is open! Education & learning new skills are significant components of my approach. I'm relational & easy to talk to about even the most difficult issues of life. I specialize in trauma, depression, anxiety, personality disorders, spiritual & relational issues, & severe mental illnesses, such as bipolar disorder. I am certified in EMDR. Pysch & personality assessments are available to identify strengths & areas for growth. I enjoy working with teens & adults, male or female. I love to renew hope when it seems lost.
(719) 660-8099 View (719) 660-8099
Photo of Terri Tucker Robinette, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alexander City, AL
Terri Tucker Robinette
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CRC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alexander City, AL 35010
Counseling has been defined as "helping others to help themselves". Our journey in life often takes unexpected and unwanted twists and turns. Sometimes a little help is all that's needed to navigate the obstacles and regain our path. It would be my honor to help you to live the life you desire. Help comes through an offer of a warm, inviting environment with a compassionate, nonjudgmental listener. My role is not to tell you what to do or what to think but to help and to guide. I would love the opportunity to talk with you to assist you on your personal journey.
Counseling has been defined as "helping others to help themselves". Our journey in life often takes unexpected and unwanted twists and turns. Sometimes a little help is all that's needed to navigate the obstacles and regain our path. It would be my honor to help you to live the life you desire. Help comes through an offer of a warm, inviting environment with a compassionate, nonjudgmental listener. My role is not to tell you what to do or what to think but to help and to guide. I would love the opportunity to talk with you to assist you on your personal journey.
(256) 626-8095 View (256) 626-8095
Photo of Caroline Aaron, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alexander City, AL
Caroline Aaron
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Alexander City, AL 35010
Waitlist for new clients
Having a good therapist can be an essential aid in negotiating life’s challenges. A compassionate therapist who listens without judgment is a valuable resource in not only getting you through trying times but also aiding you in developing strength and resiliency for future challenges. My goal as a therapist is to help you reach your goals. Whether it is a more peaceful life, a life with healthier relationships, or life with less stress and anxiety I will help you with achieving it. A good therapist helps you get stronger and provides you with skills to tackle life’s challenges. I work with adults, adolescents, and children.
Having a good therapist can be an essential aid in negotiating life’s challenges. A compassionate therapist who listens without judgment is a valuable resource in not only getting you through trying times but also aiding you in developing strength and resiliency for future challenges. My goal as a therapist is to help you reach your goals. Whether it is a more peaceful life, a life with healthier relationships, or life with less stress and anxiety I will help you with achieving it. A good therapist helps you get stronger and provides you with skills to tackle life’s challenges. I work with adults, adolescents, and children.
(256) 769-1043 View (256) 769-1043
Photo of Tom Davis, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alexander City, AL
Tom Davis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Alexander City, AL 35011  (Online Only)
Prior to creating Addiction Specialists LLC, I was the Director of a men’s treatment facility, provided addictions and trauma counseling services for adults and families in a private practice setting, the Program Director for an outpatient facility, and a Mental Health and Addiction Specialists at Auburn University Athletics Sports Medicine. I bring over 25 years of experience in the field of addiction treatment
Prior to creating Addiction Specialists LLC, I was the Director of a men’s treatment facility, provided addictions and trauma counseling services for adults and families in a private practice setting, the Program Director for an outpatient facility, and a Mental Health and Addiction Specialists at Auburn University Athletics Sports Medicine. I bring over 25 years of experience in the field of addiction treatment
(205) 289-5087 View (205) 289-5087

Online Therapists

Photo of Jillian Littlefield, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alexander City, AL
Jillian Littlefield
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Hoover, AL 35244
Whether it's anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, substance use, etc.
If you are struggling to manage a mood, anxiety, or substance use disorder and feeling discouraged, or you find yourself at a loss for how to deal with unresolved trauma, grief and loss issues, or major life changes, I invite you to reach out. I am passionate about working with all members of addicted families, whether you have a substance use disorder yourself or find yourself trying to cope with a loved one's addiction. Whether you are in recovery and trying to stay there, caught in a pattern of relapse, or uncertain whether your substance use is even problematic, let's work on it together. Mental health matters, and so do you.
Whether it's anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, substance use, etc.
If you are struggling to manage a mood, anxiety, or substance use disorder and feeling discouraged, or you find yourself at a loss for how to deal with unresolved trauma, grief and loss issues, or major life changes, I invite you to reach out. I am passionate about working with all members of addicted families, whether you have a substance use disorder yourself or find yourself trying to cope with a loved one's addiction. Whether you are in recovery and trying to stay there, caught in a pattern of relapse, or uncertain whether your substance use is even problematic, let's work on it together. Mental health matters, and so do you.
(205) 883-5541 View (205) 883-5541
Photo of Tamara Oliver-Jackson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alexander City, AL
Tamara Oliver-Jackson
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LPC , NCC, CAMS-II, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bessemer, AL 35020
As your therapist, I have over two decades of experience working with children, adolescents, teens, families, and couples with the following: depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, addictions, parenting issues, divorce issues, domestic violence, anger management attention deficit disorder, ADHD, post-traumatic stress disorder, physical and sexual abuse, oppositional defiant disorder, adjustment disorder, parenting skills development, learning disabilities, educational/school problems and relational issues and divorce.
I work to create a safe, confidential, genuine, and non-judgmental setting, which is essential for establishing a healthy therapeutic relationship. When clients can experience a sense of unconditional positive regard from their therapist, they will be more apt to be vested in the therapeutic process. Part of my job as a therapist is to actively listen to what you are saying and not saying, during each session. Through active listening, I can help you explore the underlying issues of your experience as well as identify your personal strengths. I utilize a myriad of therapeutic approaches in meeting clients' individual therapeutic goals, needs, and styles. Such as, 'talk' therapy, humanistic, cognitive-behavioral therapy, rational emotive behavior therapy, play therapy, and sand tray therapy, etc. I promote increased self-awareness and actualization, which develops emotional, physical, and spiritual balance. This works towards reducing many sources of conflict in one's life.
As your therapist, I have over two decades of experience working with children, adolescents, teens, families, and couples with the following: depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, addictions, parenting issues, divorce issues, domestic violence, anger management attention deficit disorder, ADHD, post-traumatic stress disorder, physical and sexual abuse, oppositional defiant disorder, adjustment disorder, parenting skills development, learning disabilities, educational/school problems and relational issues and divorce.
I work to create a safe, confidential, genuine, and non-judgmental setting, which is essential for establishing a healthy therapeutic relationship. When clients can experience a sense of unconditional positive regard from their therapist, they will be more apt to be vested in the therapeutic process. Part of my job as a therapist is to actively listen to what you are saying and not saying, during each session. Through active listening, I can help you explore the underlying issues of your experience as well as identify your personal strengths. I utilize a myriad of therapeutic approaches in meeting clients' individual therapeutic goals, needs, and styles. Such as, 'talk' therapy, humanistic, cognitive-behavioral therapy, rational emotive behavior therapy, play therapy, and sand tray therapy, etc. I promote increased self-awareness and actualization, which develops emotional, physical, and spiritual balance. This works towards reducing many sources of conflict in one's life.
(205) 881-5028 View (205) 881-5028
Photo of David Eckhardt Kilmer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alexander City, AL
David Eckhardt Kilmer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PIP
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35209
I have worked in the mental health field for 40+ years. During my career I have worked with a variety of patients including adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I have treated trauma exposure, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, mild autism spectrum disorders, attention deficit disorder (and related issues). I have also provided support for individuals in recovery. I believe that by identifying, focusing on, and enhancing clients' strengths, I can assist them in developing additional individualized tools to meet mental health challenges.
I have worked in the mental health field for 40+ years. During my career I have worked with a variety of patients including adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I have treated trauma exposure, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, mild autism spectrum disorders, attention deficit disorder (and related issues). I have also provided support for individuals in recovery. I believe that by identifying, focusing on, and enhancing clients' strengths, I can assist them in developing additional individualized tools to meet mental health challenges.
(205) 769-4938 View (205) 769-4938
Photo of Amanda Hood, Counselor in Alexander City, AL
Amanda Hood
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Gadsden, AL 35901
I have over 10 years experience with treating clients of all ages with Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, and Panic Disorder.
I believe that counseling should be tailored to the individual so I strive to create a unique, safe environment for every person who comes in for help. I work with my clients to help them overcome the issues that are keeping them from moving forward in their life.
I have over 10 years experience with treating clients of all ages with Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, and Panic Disorder.
I believe that counseling should be tailored to the individual so I strive to create a unique, safe environment for every person who comes in for help. I work with my clients to help them overcome the issues that are keeping them from moving forward in their life.
(256) 365-7136 View (256) 365-7136
Photo of Tekeisha Goggins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alexander City, AL
Tekeisha Goggins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anniston, AL 36207  (Online Only)
Are you depressed or anxious or have recently been diagnosed with a mental illness and are perplexed, confused, even angry? Is your relationship stuck and you can't seem to find peace? The Healing Corner, LLC embodies change, restoration, and healing through counseling as a Christian. I have experience and a passion to teach children and adults in crisis, as well as those with behavior problems, substance abuse, and grief issues, along with bipolar disorder how to manage and cope. Everyone deserves to unlock the treasure of an abundant life within. Communities are healed one individual at a time.
Are you depressed or anxious or have recently been diagnosed with a mental illness and are perplexed, confused, even angry? Is your relationship stuck and you can't seem to find peace? The Healing Corner, LLC embodies change, restoration, and healing through counseling as a Christian. I have experience and a passion to teach children and adults in crisis, as well as those with behavior problems, substance abuse, and grief issues, along with bipolar disorder how to manage and cope. Everyone deserves to unlock the treasure of an abundant life within. Communities are healed one individual at a time.
(256) 727-6455 View (256) 727-6455
Photo of New Beginnings Therapy LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alexander City, AL
New Beginnings Therapy LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Calera, AL 35040
I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, borderline personality disorder, bipolar, obsessive compulsive disorders, and addiction disorders.
My passion for counseling comes from the enjoyment of being able to engage the client into sharing their life stories and seeing the positive outcomes of overcoming those issues that are keeping the client from living a fully engaging life. As an experienced counselor, the most rewarding feeling comes from seeing clients transition from emotional and mental anguish into a more peaceful mind and soul. Clients can be assured that they will have a warm, caring, and non-judgmental therapist who will listen and be present with them on their journey to well-being.
I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, borderline personality disorder, bipolar, obsessive compulsive disorders, and addiction disorders.
My passion for counseling comes from the enjoyment of being able to engage the client into sharing their life stories and seeing the positive outcomes of overcoming those issues that are keeping the client from living a fully engaging life. As an experienced counselor, the most rewarding feeling comes from seeing clients transition from emotional and mental anguish into a more peaceful mind and soul. Clients can be assured that they will have a warm, caring, and non-judgmental therapist who will listen and be present with them on their journey to well-being.
(659) 200-6397 View (659) 200-6397
Photo of Leslie Carol Gaultney, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alexander City, AL
Leslie Carol Gaultney
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Opelika, AL 36801
Hello, My name is Leslie Gaultney. I am a Licensed Profession Counselor with over 31 years of experience working with individual adults. I have recently started my private practice, Perception Therapy. I accept BCBS, United Healthcare and American Behavioral Insurance. I offer sessions at a reduced rate for people without insurance and who are unable to pay the full fee. My specialties are Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, Panic Attacks, Social Phobia, Trauma, PTSD and Dementia. I offer an eclectic client focused approach.
Hello, My name is Leslie Gaultney. I am a Licensed Profession Counselor with over 31 years of experience working with individual adults. I have recently started my private practice, Perception Therapy. I accept BCBS, United Healthcare and American Behavioral Insurance. I offer sessions at a reduced rate for people without insurance and who are unable to pay the full fee. My specialties are Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, Panic Attacks, Social Phobia, Trauma, PTSD and Dementia. I offer an eclectic client focused approach.
(334) 781-5676 View (334) 781-5676
Photo of Lee Knight, Counselor in Alexander City, AL
Lee Knight
Counselor, MEd, ALC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35205
Hi! My name is Lee Knight, and I am an Associate Licensed Counselor at Alabama Counseling & Consulting Services, LLC. I have experience working with a wide range of individuals and families with diverse presenting problems, including, but not limited to: anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, bipolar disorders, schizophrenia spectrum and other psychotic disorders, autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, obsessive-compulsive and related disorders, trauma- and stressor-related disorders, gender dysphoria, eating disorders, disruptive, impulse-control, and conduct disorders, substance-related disorders, and personality disorders.
Hi! My name is Lee Knight, and I am an Associate Licensed Counselor at Alabama Counseling & Consulting Services, LLC. I have experience working with a wide range of individuals and families with diverse presenting problems, including, but not limited to: anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, bipolar disorders, schizophrenia spectrum and other psychotic disorders, autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, obsessive-compulsive and related disorders, trauma- and stressor-related disorders, gender dysphoria, eating disorders, disruptive, impulse-control, and conduct disorders, substance-related disorders, and personality disorders.
(205) 619-9849 View (205) 619-9849
Photo of Leigh Miller Counseling, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alexander City, AL
Leigh Miller Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35243
Waitlist for new clients
I treat most mental health disorders, including depression, bipolar, anxiety, and PTSD.
Seeking counseling is a very personal decision. Finding the right provider can be the most important step in the healing process. I believe I have helped so many clients because I use an array of tools and methods which I tailor to a client's unique goals. My approach is to work hard to understand a client's perspective and values. Sometimes this means helping the client explore and discover what that is for themselves. I lead AND follow - I may prompt, encourage, and confront, but I follow a client's pace (willingness and readiness) to delve into the issues.
I treat most mental health disorders, including depression, bipolar, anxiety, and PTSD.
Seeking counseling is a very personal decision. Finding the right provider can be the most important step in the healing process. I believe I have helped so many clients because I use an array of tools and methods which I tailor to a client's unique goals. My approach is to work hard to understand a client's perspective and values. Sometimes this means helping the client explore and discover what that is for themselves. I lead AND follow - I may prompt, encourage, and confront, but I follow a client's pace (willingness and readiness) to delve into the issues.
(205) 291-0143 View (205) 291-0143
Photo of Bridget Finlen Smith, Psychologist in Alexander City, AL
Bridget Finlen Smith
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Opelika, AL 36801
Dr. Smith is the Clinical Director at Psychological Assessment Center in the Auburn/Opelika community. She is a Licensed Psychologist with 36 years of experience in the treatment and evaluation of children, adolescents and adults. Assessments provided include: Cognitive and Academic Issues (Intellectual Functioning, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Learning Disorders), Developmental Delays, Mood Disorders (Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, PTSD), Memory Concerns, and Surgery Assessments.
Dr. Smith is the Clinical Director at Psychological Assessment Center in the Auburn/Opelika community. She is a Licensed Psychologist with 36 years of experience in the treatment and evaluation of children, adolescents and adults. Assessments provided include: Cognitive and Academic Issues (Intellectual Functioning, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Learning Disorders), Developmental Delays, Mood Disorders (Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, PTSD), Memory Concerns, and Surgery Assessments.
(334) 234-3339 View (334) 234-3339
Photo of Derrick C. Manora, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alexander City, AL
Derrick C. Manora
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Montgomery, AL 36117
I work with families, couples, adolescents and adults coping with stress, anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder.
An ideal client is one who is opening and invested in seeking growth and improvement. Working together we can find, not only the right answers, but find the right questions.
I work with families, couples, adolescents and adults coping with stress, anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder.
An ideal client is one who is opening and invested in seeking growth and improvement. Working together we can find, not only the right answers, but find the right questions.
(334) 458-8043 View (334) 458-8043
Photo of Virginia H Young, Counselor in Alexander City, AL
Virginia H Young
Counselor, ALC
Verified Verified
Auburn, AL 36830
With over 10 years of experience and direct training from acknowledged experts in the field of Tourette and tic disorders (and their co-occurring conditions such as ADHD, OCD, anxiety, depression, autism, bipolar, various learning disabilities, and sensory integration needs), I can adequately address many different neurotypes.
I crafted PEACE Center, LLC. to serve neurodivergent children and families in the Auburn community. I use a team approach to better provide tailored interventions and a higher level of care. Though I use play and am trained for trauma and anxiety, my expertise is with neurodivergent children, adolescents, and very new adults and their supports -- especially those with Tics, OCD, ADHD, and Autism. My goal is to come alongside through affirming, creating allies, advocates, community, and connection to resources through the use of a variety of therapeutic interventions, intentional partnerships, research and training, groups, and more.
With over 10 years of experience and direct training from acknowledged experts in the field of Tourette and tic disorders (and their co-occurring conditions such as ADHD, OCD, anxiety, depression, autism, bipolar, various learning disabilities, and sensory integration needs), I can adequately address many different neurotypes.
I crafted PEACE Center, LLC. to serve neurodivergent children and families in the Auburn community. I use a team approach to better provide tailored interventions and a higher level of care. Though I use play and am trained for trauma and anxiety, my expertise is with neurodivergent children, adolescents, and very new adults and their supports -- especially those with Tics, OCD, ADHD, and Autism. My goal is to come alongside through affirming, creating allies, advocates, community, and connection to resources through the use of a variety of therapeutic interventions, intentional partnerships, research and training, groups, and more.
(334) 203-9768 View (334) 203-9768
Photo of Restoration Faith Based Counseling, Inc, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alexander City, AL
Restoration Faith Based Counseling, Inc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, PIP, MPH, MDiv, DMin
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bessemer, AL 35022  (Online Only)
I have specialty experience with anxiety disorder, depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and personality disorder.
I desire to serve any person in need of mental health counseling across multiple areas. I want to provide affordable counseling to those in need by accepting insurance from multiple insurance providers and providing a sliding fee scale.
I have specialty experience with anxiety disorder, depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and personality disorder.
I desire to serve any person in need of mental health counseling across multiple areas. I want to provide affordable counseling to those in need by accepting insurance from multiple insurance providers and providing a sliding fee scale.
(205) 582-7885 View (205) 582-7885
Photo of Kat Lawson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alexander City, AL
Kat Lawson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, CMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hoover, AL 35244
Some of my counseling emphasis' are personality disorders, autism issues and mood disorders including major depression, anxiety and bipolar disorders.
My philosophy of counseling is that every human soul is unique and their experiences shape their view of the world. The process of individuation is essential in order for a person to become whole and fully developed as his, her, or their 'true self.' I believe empathy, collaboration and validation are key to the counseling relationship. The person as NOT the problem, rather, the problem is the problem. In the counseling relationship we will focus on strengths and mindfully and collaboratively awaken awareness of the authentic self to free clients of negative learned beliefs. The goal is for you to have a satisfactory life.
Some of my counseling emphasis' are personality disorders, autism issues and mood disorders including major depression, anxiety and bipolar disorders.
My philosophy of counseling is that every human soul is unique and their experiences shape their view of the world. The process of individuation is essential in order for a person to become whole and fully developed as his, her, or their 'true self.' I believe empathy, collaboration and validation are key to the counseling relationship. The person as NOT the problem, rather, the problem is the problem. In the counseling relationship we will focus on strengths and mindfully and collaboratively awaken awareness of the authentic self to free clients of negative learned beliefs. The goal is for you to have a satisfactory life.
(205) 336-5015 View (205) 336-5015
Photo of Ariela H Aaron, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alexander City, AL
Ariela H Aaron
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LPC-S, S
Verified Verified
Tuscaloosa, AL 35404
I specialize in clients that have issues with anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder. In addition I specialize in ADHD of adults and children. As I therapist I am laid back yet positive and goal oriented. I would like to teach my potential clients skills to improve their quality of life not to be dependent on the therapist. It is my belief that therapy is not just a session or a conversation it is actual work on you yourself or family members.
I specialize in clients that have issues with anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder. In addition I specialize in ADHD of adults and children. As I therapist I am laid back yet positive and goal oriented. I would like to teach my potential clients skills to improve their quality of life not to be dependent on the therapist. It is my belief that therapy is not just a session or a conversation it is actual work on you yourself or family members.
(205) 270-5951 View (205) 270-5951
Photo of Elpida Counseling, LLC, Counselor in Alexander City, AL
Elpida Counseling, LLC
Counselor, MEd, ALC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vestavia Hills, AL 35216  (Online Only)
I take special interest in adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) with adults, or trauma exposure, and believe that only by working through these experiences can we begin to heal. ACEs can lead to issues in adulthood relationships, careers, and mental health that we do not often realize correlates with our childhood experiences. I have extensive experience working with those experiencing PTSD, panic attacks, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, OCD, phobias, and life transitions. I also have unique experience working with individuals with mood disorders, such as bipolar disorder, personality disorders, and major depressive disorder.
I take special interest in adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) with adults, or trauma exposure, and believe that only by working through these experiences can we begin to heal. ACEs can lead to issues in adulthood relationships, careers, and mental health that we do not often realize correlates with our childhood experiences. I have extensive experience working with those experiencing PTSD, panic attacks, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, OCD, phobias, and life transitions. I also have unique experience working with individuals with mood disorders, such as bipolar disorder, personality disorders, and major depressive disorder.
(205) 850-5173 View (205) 850-5173

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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.