Therapists in Atlanta, GA
Meagan Ross
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30308 (Online Only)
Hello! I am Meagan, a therapist specializing in depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders, and working with at-risk youth. I primarily utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and solution-focused techniques in my practice. Depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorders can greatly impact your quality of life and daily functioning. My aim is to assist you in understanding and managing these conditions through evidence-based interventions.
Hello! I am Meagan, a therapist specializing in depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders, and working with at-risk youth. I primarily utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and solution-focused techniques in my practice. Depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorders can greatly impact your quality of life and daily functioning. My aim is to assist you in understanding and managing these conditions through evidence-based interventions.
Corrine Jones-Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30309 (Online Only)
Corrine Jones-Williams is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who has been in the vast field of social work for more than nine years. Holding a Bachelor of Social Work degree from Livingstone College and a Master of Social Work from The University of South Carolina – Columbia. She is also certified as an Anger Management Specialist. Corrine possesses knowledge of numerous diagnoses from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV) including Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder(s), psychotic disorders and substance abuse and/or dependency.
Corrine Jones-Williams is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who has been in the vast field of social work for more than nine years. Holding a Bachelor of Social Work degree from Livingstone College and a Master of Social Work from The University of South Carolina – Columbia. She is also certified as an Anger Management Specialist. Corrine possesses knowledge of numerous diagnoses from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV) including Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder(s), psychotic disorders and substance abuse and/or dependency.
Perimeter Therapy Associates, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30346
We have clinicians that specialize in Trauma, Substance Abuse, Couples Counseling, Maternal Mental Health, Play Therapy, Sex Therapy, LGBT community, Autism Spectrum, Developmental Disabilities, Parenting Issues, BiPolar Disorder, Hypnotherapy, Cancer Diagnosis, and Elder Issues.
Perimeter Therapy Associates provides psychological services for children, adolescents, adults, older adults, couples, and families experiencing life transitions, relationship difficulties, depression, post partum depression, anxiety, grief, parenting concerns and other mental health issues. Our approach to therapy is tailored to the unique needs of each client, facilitating positive change in a warm and caring environment. We assist clients in making fundamental changes in the way they think and act thereby improving their ability to solve problems, cope and communicate effectively. We also provide supervision for LAPC's working toward LPC licensure.
We have clinicians that specialize in Trauma, Substance Abuse, Couples Counseling, Maternal Mental Health, Play Therapy, Sex Therapy, LGBT community, Autism Spectrum, Developmental Disabilities, Parenting Issues, BiPolar Disorder, Hypnotherapy, Cancer Diagnosis, and Elder Issues.
Perimeter Therapy Associates provides psychological services for children, adolescents, adults, older adults, couples, and families experiencing life transitions, relationship difficulties, depression, post partum depression, anxiety, grief, parenting concerns and other mental health issues. Our approach to therapy is tailored to the unique needs of each client, facilitating positive change in a warm and caring environment. We assist clients in making fundamental changes in the way they think and act thereby improving their ability to solve problems, cope and communicate effectively. We also provide supervision for LAPC's working toward LPC licensure.
Talk it Out
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30339
We specialize in numerous mental health concerns, such as anxiety, depression, addiction, eating disorders, trauma, grief, LGBTQIAA issues, personality disorders, bipolar disorder, life transitions, among others.
Hello and welcome to Talk it Out! We are a family friendly group practice located near Truist Park (formally SunTrust Park) with easy access off of 285 and 75. We specialize in a wide array of mental health concerns. One of our knowledgeable and compassionate clinicians will work with you to meet your specific goals in therapy. Our clinicians utilize various treatment modalities and vary in terms of gender and age so you can feel confident that you will be matched with a clinician that you will feel comfortable and safe with.
We specialize in numerous mental health concerns, such as anxiety, depression, addiction, eating disorders, trauma, grief, LGBTQIAA issues, personality disorders, bipolar disorder, life transitions, among others.
Hello and welcome to Talk it Out! We are a family friendly group practice located near Truist Park (formally SunTrust Park) with easy access off of 285 and 75. We specialize in a wide array of mental health concerns. One of our knowledgeable and compassionate clinicians will work with you to meet your specific goals in therapy. Our clinicians utilize various treatment modalities and vary in terms of gender and age so you can feel confident that you will be matched with a clinician that you will feel comfortable and safe with.
Gail Foorman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, Cantor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30326 (Online Only)
I have extensive background treating people with depression, anxiety, bipolar, ADHD and ASD disorders as well as issues related to aging.
Welcome! I specialize in helping Jewish individuals and couples of all levels of religious observance or communal affiliation to explore and resolve concerns over interpersonal, family and community relationships, life-cycle events, intermarriage, conversion, religious or spiritual questions, the Holocaust, and antisemitism/anti-Zionism. I also help young adults cope with the demands of work, school, socializing, dating, relationships, managing finances, setting goals and generally coping with this surprisingly challenging time of life. More generally, I see anyone needing help dealing with and overcoming depression and anxiety.
I have extensive background treating people with depression, anxiety, bipolar, ADHD and ASD disorders as well as issues related to aging.
Welcome! I specialize in helping Jewish individuals and couples of all levels of religious observance or communal affiliation to explore and resolve concerns over interpersonal, family and community relationships, life-cycle events, intermarriage, conversion, religious or spiritual questions, the Holocaust, and antisemitism/anti-Zionism. I also help young adults cope with the demands of work, school, socializing, dating, relationships, managing finances, setting goals and generally coping with this surprisingly challenging time of life. More generally, I see anyone needing help dealing with and overcoming depression and anxiety.
Suzanne E. Goodwin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CCH
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30315
Religious Trauma Syndrome (RTS) can look like other disorders – PTSD, clinical depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders (i.
You are trying to escape the control of a fundamentalist faith community/lifestyle, that holds great personal meaning to you; but you’re conflicted about leaving the dogmatic, authoritarian belief system in which you find yourself. You want to make sense of the damage that has been done by indoctrination. Or perhaps you experienced chronic abuse in a harmful religion and are trying to sever your connection to the faith, but you have no idea how to go about it? Have you experienced confusion, inability to think critically and have negative beliefs about yourself? You may be experiencing Religious Trauma Syndrome.
Religious Trauma Syndrome (RTS) can look like other disorders – PTSD, clinical depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders (i.
You are trying to escape the control of a fundamentalist faith community/lifestyle, that holds great personal meaning to you; but you’re conflicted about leaving the dogmatic, authoritarian belief system in which you find yourself. You want to make sense of the damage that has been done by indoctrination. Or perhaps you experienced chronic abuse in a harmful religion and are trying to sever your connection to the faith, but you have no idea how to go about it? Have you experienced confusion, inability to think critically and have negative beliefs about yourself? You may be experiencing Religious Trauma Syndrome.
Jennifer A Riapos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30339
Waitlist for new clients
Jennifer has a passion for and specializes in working with LGBTQ+ youth, addiction issues, trauma, & families in crisis; a wealth of experience working with clients with bipolar, anxiety, depression, personality disorders, anger and relationship issues.
Jennifer earned her Master's degree in Social Work at Kennesaw State University graduating cum laude. She is currently a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a member of the National Association of Social Workers. A New Jersey native, Jennifer relocated to Cobb County in 2005 as a single parent raising two children. She is active in the community and her church. Jennifer has extensive experience working with varied populations: working with a pregnancy resource center; inpatient adolescents; individuals/families in the community; as well as substance abuse/mental health IOP/PHP treatment settings.
Jennifer has a passion for and specializes in working with LGBTQ+ youth, addiction issues, trauma, & families in crisis; a wealth of experience working with clients with bipolar, anxiety, depression, personality disorders, anger and relationship issues.
Jennifer earned her Master's degree in Social Work at Kennesaw State University graduating cum laude. She is currently a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a member of the National Association of Social Workers. A New Jersey native, Jennifer relocated to Cobb County in 2005 as a single parent raising two children. She is active in the community and her church. Jennifer has extensive experience working with varied populations: working with a pregnancy resource center; inpatient adolescents; individuals/families in the community; as well as substance abuse/mental health IOP/PHP treatment settings.
Nathan Mascaro
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30307
I am an ABPP certified psychologist providing evidence-based psychotherapy to people ages 17+. Having practiced in Georgia since 2007 when I completed my postdoctoral fellowship in Clinical Psychology at Emory University, I've worked in private practice and hospital settings for 15+ years treating depression, anxiety (including OCD, panic, phobias, and chronic worry/GAD), PTSD and other trauma or grief related issues, bipolar disorder, insomnia, and issues related to meaning/purpose and existential distress. I work with individuals from late adolescence through older adulthood across the continua of gender, ethnicity, and faith.
I am an ABPP certified psychologist providing evidence-based psychotherapy to people ages 17+. Having practiced in Georgia since 2007 when I completed my postdoctoral fellowship in Clinical Psychology at Emory University, I've worked in private practice and hospital settings for 15+ years treating depression, anxiety (including OCD, panic, phobias, and chronic worry/GAD), PTSD and other trauma or grief related issues, bipolar disorder, insomnia, and issues related to meaning/purpose and existential distress. I work with individuals from late adolescence through older adulthood across the continua of gender, ethnicity, and faith.
Ericka Keith
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30326 (Online Only)
I enjoys helping teens & adults develop coping skills to manage conditions including PTSD, depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorders & OCD.
Happily ever after’ doesn’t always happen easily. Acknowledging that happiness is a journey, not just a destination, I am dedicated to helping you create transformational changes that can last a lifetime. Guided by an endearing spirit and a genuine desire to see you succeed both within and outside the walls of therapy, it is my priority to offer a safe space to process authentic emotions and embark on a path toward self-awareness and healing.
I enjoys helping teens & adults develop coping skills to manage conditions including PTSD, depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorders & OCD.
Happily ever after’ doesn’t always happen easily. Acknowledging that happiness is a journey, not just a destination, I am dedicated to helping you create transformational changes that can last a lifetime. Guided by an endearing spirit and a genuine desire to see you succeed both within and outside the walls of therapy, it is my priority to offer a safe space to process authentic emotions and embark on a path toward self-awareness and healing.
Dawn Bennett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LCSW, MAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30303
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in treating individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia, Bipolar disorder, Borderline personality disorder etc.
Are you constantly in crisis and can't seem to get on track? Then I am the therapist for individuals who are motivated and commited to peeling away at the core and working through issues hindering personal growth. Your Individual partnership, personal responsibility and commitment to oneself are essential tools in obtaining optimal success.
I specialize in treating individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia, Bipolar disorder, Borderline personality disorder etc.
Are you constantly in crisis and can't seem to get on track? Then I am the therapist for individuals who are motivated and commited to peeling away at the core and working through issues hindering personal growth. Your Individual partnership, personal responsibility and commitment to oneself are essential tools in obtaining optimal success.
Natalie L. Wakeley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, CPCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30327 (Online Only)
Welcome! If you're new to therapy or have tried therapy in the past and are looking for a holistic and solutions based approach, I can help. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Professional Counselor Supervisor and I have experience working with clients from all walks of life with varying concerns. My specializations include treating Trauma, PTSD, BPD, Bipolar Disorder, Anger, Depression, Anxiety, family conflict, life transitions and co-dependency. I offer both individual and family therapy.
Welcome! If you're new to therapy or have tried therapy in the past and are looking for a holistic and solutions based approach, I can help. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Professional Counselor Supervisor and I have experience working with clients from all walks of life with varying concerns. My specializations include treating Trauma, PTSD, BPD, Bipolar Disorder, Anger, Depression, Anxiety, family conflict, life transitions and co-dependency. I offer both individual and family therapy.
15 Second Videos
Nathan Mascaro
Ericka Keith
Huei Chen Cheng
Eric Groh | LPC Supervision | Continuing Ed
Glenda E Demas
Rebecca Johnson Osei
Success Brand - Counseling and Coaching
Safe Emotions Center for Trauma Recovery
Lisa Miller Zawko
Tamekia Meko Howard
Darius M Washington
Denitra L. Gaines
Jessica Goodnight
Kelley Collins
Raushannah Johnson-Verwayne
Kelley (Kc) Berto
All 1 Family, Inc (LGBTQ Affirming Clinic)
Lina Munoz
Amy Dickinson-Bush
Brian Teal
Endpoints Health
Yosheika Hubbard-James
HeartSync Therapy, LLC
Lucero del Rocio Morse
Keshia Irving
Steven R. Jones- Marriage Couple Family Therapist
Deva Joy Gouss
Anna Beilman
The Healing Suite - Ciara Pierce
Orchard Human Services, Inc
Sean Massie Doctor Of Psychology
Carlton W Mitchell
Tree of Life Counseling and Consulting
Ashley Rhys
Extriara Gates - Success Brand Counseling
Familial Bonds LLC Psychotherapy and Consultation
Giovanna Burgess Geathers
Candace Dale Mckenzie
Novo Psychotherapy, LLC
Gabrielle Johnson
Elizabeth (Lizz) Toledo
The Transformation Specialists LLC
Katlyn Elizabeth Chambers
Lotus Center for Counseling & Wellness
Innovations in Counseling LLC
Charity Northan
Arianne Washington (Elite Therapy)
Maritza Garza
Tomeki S Davis
Samantha Speed
Nahomie Julien
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADCII, CDVS, CAMS
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30326
Do you experience challenges related to depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder? Are you currently struggling with relationship difficulties? Perhaps you have a young family member who has encountered behavioral issues that resulted in incarceration. Or maybe you are a member of the LGBTQ community and are searching for a secure and empathetic therapeutic environment. I am available to offer individualized support and attentive listening to your concerns. Let us collaborate to achieve optimal wellness.
Do you experience challenges related to depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder? Are you currently struggling with relationship difficulties? Perhaps you have a young family member who has encountered behavioral issues that resulted in incarceration. Or maybe you are a member of the LGBTQ community and are searching for a secure and empathetic therapeutic environment. I am available to offer individualized support and attentive listening to your concerns. Let us collaborate to achieve optimal wellness.
Huei Chen Cheng
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30303
I am passionate to serve teens, kids, adults from age 5 to 70 who like to learn how to better manage emotions such as depression, anxiety, anger, ADHD, Bipolar, Trauma,Grief, Loss, Dissociation as well as improve communication and relationship between family for parents/children and couples to create abundant life. I have empowered many women men children teens and elderly to live a better life.
I am passionate to serve teens, kids, adults from age 5 to 70 who like to learn how to better manage emotions such as depression, anxiety, anger, ADHD, Bipolar, Trauma,Grief, Loss, Dissociation as well as improve communication and relationship between family for parents/children and couples to create abundant life. I have empowered many women men children teens and elderly to live a better life.
Sunflower Counseling Center
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30360
We specialize in: Anxiety, ADD/ADHD, Depression, PTSD, Grief, Chronic Pain/Illness, Faith-Based, Anger Management, Trauma, LGBTQ+, Personality Disorder, Parenting, Religion, Bipolar, Postpartum Depression, Career, Immigrants/Refugees and more.
Sunflower Counseling exists so that people seeking the highest quality of mental health services, at an affordable rate, can be counseled by professionals who train and specialize in multiple areas of mental health healing. Sunflower Counseling is committed to strengthening every individual, couple, child, and family in our community by providing care and therapeutic services to break the chains of mental and behavioral health stigmas.
We specialize in: Anxiety, ADD/ADHD, Depression, PTSD, Grief, Chronic Pain/Illness, Faith-Based, Anger Management, Trauma, LGBTQ+, Personality Disorder, Parenting, Religion, Bipolar, Postpartum Depression, Career, Immigrants/Refugees and more.
Sunflower Counseling exists so that people seeking the highest quality of mental health services, at an affordable rate, can be counseled by professionals who train and specialize in multiple areas of mental health healing. Sunflower Counseling is committed to strengthening every individual, couple, child, and family in our community by providing care and therapeutic services to break the chains of mental and behavioral health stigmas.
Douglas Counseling, Coaching, & Consulting, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30331 (Online Only)
My expertise is in providing individual treatment and psychotherapy services to culturally diverse populations diagnosed with Generalized Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Mood Disorders, and other affective disorders.
Hi, my name is Dr. Tyneisha Douglas. My passion is practicing mental health and helping enhance the lives of others through individualized, personalized, and life-changing therapy because I believe in meeting people where they are. I specialize in helping adults with challenges such as Anxiety, Depression, Stress Management, Mood Disorders, and Post Traumatic Stress. I have a special niche for working with women and mothers who are struggling with the many demands and challenges of motherhood and womanhood. I also hold a very special place for college students or young adults who are going through difficult life transitions.
My expertise is in providing individual treatment and psychotherapy services to culturally diverse populations diagnosed with Generalized Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Mood Disorders, and other affective disorders.
Hi, my name is Dr. Tyneisha Douglas. My passion is practicing mental health and helping enhance the lives of others through individualized, personalized, and life-changing therapy because I believe in meeting people where they are. I specialize in helping adults with challenges such as Anxiety, Depression, Stress Management, Mood Disorders, and Post Traumatic Stress. I have a special niche for working with women and mothers who are struggling with the many demands and challenges of motherhood and womanhood. I also hold a very special place for college students or young adults who are going through difficult life transitions.
Monica Bell Callahan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CLC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30328 (Online Only)
I specialize working with Depressive Disorders, Anxiety Disorder, Individual Marital Counseling, Grief counseling, Bipolar Disorders, Family Counseling, Stress Vocational issues, Women issues and PTSD.
It is my mission to be a vessel and share the love of God with others by providing genuine compassion and concern to hurting people with a desire to rebuild and or restore their lives! We all have something in common which includes pain from the past that affects how we relate to others and/or how they relate to us. Lets work together to get to the root of the problem to reset our lives and Begin Again! I've had the privilege of working in many diverse settings including individual, marital and family counseling, and residential settings helping women to overcome the horrors of human trafficking and/or a history of sexual abuse.
I specialize working with Depressive Disorders, Anxiety Disorder, Individual Marital Counseling, Grief counseling, Bipolar Disorders, Family Counseling, Stress Vocational issues, Women issues and PTSD.
It is my mission to be a vessel and share the love of God with others by providing genuine compassion and concern to hurting people with a desire to rebuild and or restore their lives! We all have something in common which includes pain from the past that affects how we relate to others and/or how they relate to us. Lets work together to get to the root of the problem to reset our lives and Begin Again! I've had the privilege of working in many diverse settings including individual, marital and family counseling, and residential settings helping women to overcome the horrors of human trafficking and/or a history of sexual abuse.
Vicki McMorrough
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30341
I work with individuals middle school aged and up. My client's issues range from ADHD, depression and anxiety, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia in addition to phase of life/life changing issues. I work with many LBGTQ+ individuals and work very hard to be culturally sensitive and competent. If we are a good fit for one another, I have no doubt that we can work together to help you get back on the road to enjoy life or feel more confident in what you want to do next. Ideally, a client would choose me that was looking for a more relaxed feel while being able to complete the work. I'm more sweaters and T's than suits and buttons.
I work with individuals middle school aged and up. My client's issues range from ADHD, depression and anxiety, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia in addition to phase of life/life changing issues. I work with many LBGTQ+ individuals and work very hard to be culturally sensitive and competent. If we are a good fit for one another, I have no doubt that we can work together to help you get back on the road to enjoy life or feel more confident in what you want to do next. Ideally, a client would choose me that was looking for a more relaxed feel while being able to complete the work. I'm more sweaters and T's than suits and buttons.
Jennifer Bailey
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30328
Dr. Bailey is a licensed psychologist who specializes in working with children, adolescents, young adults and their families in the treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorder, anxiety disorders, depression and mood disorders, OCD/panic, trauma and attachment disorders, executive functioning difficulties, behavioral issues, school refusal, social and academic difficulties and family issues. She provides individual and family therapy, group therapy, parent coaching, school consultation, in-home services and psychological evaluations. Therapeutically, she utilizes scientifically supported therapy techniques that are specifically chosen to meet each client and family's needs.
Dr. Bailey is a licensed psychologist who specializes in working with children, adolescents, young adults and their families in the treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorder, anxiety disorders, depression and mood disorders, OCD/panic, trauma and attachment disorders, executive functioning difficulties, behavioral issues, school refusal, social and academic difficulties and family issues. She provides individual and family therapy, group therapy, parent coaching, school consultation, in-home services and psychological evaluations. Therapeutically, she utilizes scientifically supported therapy techniques that are specifically chosen to meet each client and family's needs.
Brittany Silva
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, Intern
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30308 (Online Only)
I am a dedicated mental health professional pursuing a master's in social work at the University of Georgia, who offers unwavering support for individuals seeking help with their mental health. Under the mentorship of Raymond Jeanes, LCSW, of Jeanes Mental Health Services, I prioritizes individual needs and empowerment.
I am a dedicated mental health professional pursuing a master's in social work at the University of Georgia, who offers unwavering support for individuals seeking help with their mental health. Under the mentorship of Raymond Jeanes, LCSW, of Jeanes Mental Health Services, I prioritizes individual needs and empowerment.
Jamie Satterfield
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30303 (Online Only)
Are you feeling disconnected from your body and emotions? Do you struggle to sleep, focus, or feel at ease because your mind is never quiet? I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Trauma-Conscious Yoga Instructor. It’s my passion to help people connect to their true selves and heal the wounds that are holding them back from their full potential.
Are you feeling disconnected from your body and emotions? Do you struggle to sleep, focus, or feel at ease because your mind is never quiet? I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Trauma-Conscious Yoga Instructor. It’s my passion to help people connect to their true selves and heal the wounds that are holding them back from their full potential.
See more therapy options for Atlanta
Nearby Bipolar Disorder Therapists Searches for Atlanta
- Avondale Estates
- Brookhaven
- Chamblee
- College Park
- Decatur
- East Point
- Ellenwood
- Forest Park
- Mableton
- Morrow
- Sandy Springs
- Smyrna
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.