Photo of Nicolas J Comeau, Psychologist in Crystal Lake, IL
Nicolas J Comeau
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
I provide individual psychotherapy for adults struggling with depression, bipolar disorders, anxiety, OCD, trauma-related disorders, substance use disorders, and personality disorders.
Emotional pain has a way of making life feel narrow and less enjoyable. In therapy, I help clients to focus on what gives them joy, excitement, and meaning in life, and to identify valued goals. As clients get closer their goals, unforeseen obstacles can crop up, and these roadblocks may cause stress or hardship. I offer a variety of coping skills to help people overcome such obstacles. These skills include stress management, mindfulness, assertiveness, confronting fears, and many, many more!
I provide individual psychotherapy for adults struggling with depression, bipolar disorders, anxiety, OCD, trauma-related disorders, substance use disorders, and personality disorders.
Emotional pain has a way of making life feel narrow and less enjoyable. In therapy, I help clients to focus on what gives them joy, excitement, and meaning in life, and to identify valued goals. As clients get closer their goals, unforeseen obstacles can crop up, and these roadblocks may cause stress or hardship. I offer a variety of coping skills to help people overcome such obstacles. These skills include stress management, mindfulness, assertiveness, confronting fears, and many, many more!
(779) 242-2640 View (779) 242-2640
Photo of Mindy Jackson, Counselor in Crystal Lake, IL
Mindy Jackson
Counselor, LCPC, CRC
Verified Verified
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
My areas of expertise are: anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, substance use disorders, life adjustment/transition issues, self-esteem challenges, anger management, and dealing with stress.
I understand that making the decision to come to therapy can be a difficult choice. It's also a courageous one and I want to assure you that you are not alone. You may be facing many challenges in your life right now and may feel stuck looking for the answers. I believe that we all deserve the chance to discover the best version of ourselves. It's important to me to provide a safe space rooted in mutual respect, trust, and free of judgement and believe this is the key to the therapeutic alliance.
My areas of expertise are: anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, substance use disorders, life adjustment/transition issues, self-esteem challenges, anger management, and dealing with stress.
I understand that making the decision to come to therapy can be a difficult choice. It's also a courageous one and I want to assure you that you are not alone. You may be facing many challenges in your life right now and may feel stuck looking for the answers. I believe that we all deserve the chance to discover the best version of ourselves. It's important to me to provide a safe space rooted in mutual respect, trust, and free of judgement and believe this is the key to the therapeutic alliance.
(815) 201-8397 View (815) 201-8397
Photo of Revival Therapy, Counselor in Crystal Lake, IL
Revival Therapy
Counselor, MA, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
Our areas of expertise are: depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, disordered eating, substance use disorders, personality disorders, grief, divorce, PTSD/trauma, co-dependency, narcissistic abuse, chronic illness, and life adjustments/transitions.
At Revival Therapy believe in compassionate care and authentic connections dedicated towards your wellness. Collectively our professional counselors have over 50 years of experience in the mental heath field working with individuals, couples and families. We believe the key towards your healing lies deeply within you. Our role is to be on the journey with you, helping guide you, and tap into those unrealized or forgotten strengths. We are with you every step of the way on your journey to a personal revival. We are accepting new clients. Let us help you begin your REVIVAL today. Your mental health matters!
Our areas of expertise are: depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, disordered eating, substance use disorders, personality disorders, grief, divorce, PTSD/trauma, co-dependency, narcissistic abuse, chronic illness, and life adjustments/transitions.
At Revival Therapy believe in compassionate care and authentic connections dedicated towards your wellness. Collectively our professional counselors have over 50 years of experience in the mental heath field working with individuals, couples and families. We believe the key towards your healing lies deeply within you. Our role is to be on the journey with you, helping guide you, and tap into those unrealized or forgotten strengths. We are with you every step of the way on your journey to a personal revival. We are accepting new clients. Let us help you begin your REVIVAL today. Your mental health matters!
(779) 243-5246 View (779) 243-5246
Photo of Helenn McManaman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Crystal Lake, IL
Helenn McManaman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC, PsyD
Not Verified Not Verified
Crystal Lake, IL 60012
My areas of specialization include: depression, anxiety, ADHD/ADD, bipolar disorder, oppositional/defiant disorder, anger management, domestic violence, and victims of sexual abuse.
Anything can happen in life! Sometimes difficult things happen that are outside of our control. My focus is to help clients overcome life challenges by helping them identify their strengths and help them overcome stressful life events. I support clients by increasing their level of self-awareness as they identify their strengths and resources. I also support clients by helping them gain insight into self-defeating patterns and work toward making themselves feel confident, calm, and powerful. By providing a warm and safe environment, I help my clients move forward in life and have a more balanced, fulfilled life.
My areas of specialization include: depression, anxiety, ADHD/ADD, bipolar disorder, oppositional/defiant disorder, anger management, domestic violence, and victims of sexual abuse.
Anything can happen in life! Sometimes difficult things happen that are outside of our control. My focus is to help clients overcome life challenges by helping them identify their strengths and help them overcome stressful life events. I support clients by increasing their level of self-awareness as they identify their strengths and resources. I also support clients by helping them gain insight into self-defeating patterns and work toward making themselves feel confident, calm, and powerful. By providing a warm and safe environment, I help my clients move forward in life and have a more balanced, fulfilled life.
(815) 205-0194 View (815) 205-0194
Photo of Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC, Counselor in Crystal Lake, IL
Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC
Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
We have been trained to work with a variety of issues-Depression, Anger, Anxiety (group and individual formats), Bipolar disorder, Trauma, Child and Adolescent work (males and females), Sexual Abuse, Play Therapy, Family therapy, Cultural issues (adapting to the western culture), and Gay/Lesbian family issues.
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers, finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward an Integrative approach and help our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tends toward a systems based approach using behavior methods.
We have been trained to work with a variety of issues-Depression, Anger, Anxiety (group and individual formats), Bipolar disorder, Trauma, Child and Adolescent work (males and females), Sexual Abuse, Play Therapy, Family therapy, Cultural issues (adapting to the western culture), and Gay/Lesbian family issues.
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers, finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward an Integrative approach and help our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tends toward a systems based approach using behavior methods.
(773) 312-3612 View (773) 312-3612
Photo of Mercedes Conus, Licensed Professional Counselor in Crystal Lake, IL
Mercedes Conus
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, EMDR, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
I am a fully bilingual Spanish/English EMDR therapist who treats trauma, post-partum depression, low self-esteem, borderline personality disorder, depression, anxiety, prolonged grief, school refusal, self-harm, ADHD, bipolar, DID, addiction, disruptive behavior, relationship conflict, and physical, sexual, and emotional abuse.
We all have a story and this story guides us. I believe that life is a journey with good and bad moments. Coping with these challenges could be difficult; why do you have to go through it alone? I believe therapy is a place where you truly find yourself and grow as person. I believe it takes great courage, self insight, and strength to reach out for help. Often when we are adjusting to new life circumstances, we don't realize the importance of acceptance. Therapy is a great place to process, explore and adapt to these changes. In therapy, we will work together to identify your needs and find the best of you.
I am a fully bilingual Spanish/English EMDR therapist who treats trauma, post-partum depression, low self-esteem, borderline personality disorder, depression, anxiety, prolonged grief, school refusal, self-harm, ADHD, bipolar, DID, addiction, disruptive behavior, relationship conflict, and physical, sexual, and emotional abuse.
We all have a story and this story guides us. I believe that life is a journey with good and bad moments. Coping with these challenges could be difficult; why do you have to go through it alone? I believe therapy is a place where you truly find yourself and grow as person. I believe it takes great courage, self insight, and strength to reach out for help. Often when we are adjusting to new life circumstances, we don't realize the importance of acceptance. Therapy is a great place to process, explore and adapt to these changes. In therapy, we will work together to identify your needs and find the best of you.
(847) 469-9869 View (847) 469-9869
Photo of Julianna Evischi, Licensed Social Worker in Crystal Lake, IL
Julianna Evischi
Licensed Social Worker, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
In addition, I treat anxiety, depression, BiPolar Disorder, disordered eating, PTSD/trauma, substance use disorders, co-dependency, life adjustments/life transitions, chronic stress related issues and grief.
Hi, I'm Julianna, and I work with both teens and adults! I believe that everyone has a unique story and I acknowledge that beginning therapy can feel intimidating and even scary. I approach therapy with a collaborative mindset, free of judgement, and built on mutual respect and trust. I value a therapeutic environment where one is free to be their authentic self. I value a focus on solutions, offering guidance and unconditional support, while simultaneously acknowledging that you are the expert of your own life.
In addition, I treat anxiety, depression, BiPolar Disorder, disordered eating, PTSD/trauma, substance use disorders, co-dependency, life adjustments/life transitions, chronic stress related issues and grief.
Hi, I'm Julianna, and I work with both teens and adults! I believe that everyone has a unique story and I acknowledge that beginning therapy can feel intimidating and even scary. I approach therapy with a collaborative mindset, free of judgement, and built on mutual respect and trust. I value a therapeutic environment where one is free to be their authentic self. I value a focus on solutions, offering guidance and unconditional support, while simultaneously acknowledging that you are the expert of your own life.
(815) 396-6425 View (815) 396-6425
Photo of Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC, Counselor in Crystal Lake, IL
Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
We have been trained to work with a variety of issues-Depression, Anger, Anxiety (group and individual formats), Bipolar disorder, Trauma, Child and Adolescent work (males and females), Sexual Abuse, Play Therapy, Family therapy, Cultural issues (adapting to the western culture), and Gay/Lesbian family issues.
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers, finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward an Integrative approach and help our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tends toward a systems based approach using behavior methods.
We have been trained to work with a variety of issues-Depression, Anger, Anxiety (group and individual formats), Bipolar disorder, Trauma, Child and Adolescent work (males and females), Sexual Abuse, Play Therapy, Family therapy, Cultural issues (adapting to the western culture), and Gay/Lesbian family issues.
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers, finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward an Integrative approach and help our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tends toward a systems based approach using behavior methods.
(773) 312-3612 View (773) 312-3612
Photo of Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC, Counselor in Crystal Lake, IL
Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC
Counselor, MA, LPC, LSW, LCPC, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
We have been trained to work with a variety of issues-Depression, Anger, Anxiety (group and individual formats), Bipolar disorder, Trauma, Child and Adolescent work (males and females), Sexual Abuse, Play Therapy, Family therapy, Cultural issues (adapting to the western culture), and Gay/Lesbian family issues.
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward and Integrative approach and have our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tends toward a systems based approach using behavior methods.
We have been trained to work with a variety of issues-Depression, Anger, Anxiety (group and individual formats), Bipolar disorder, Trauma, Child and Adolescent work (males and females), Sexual Abuse, Play Therapy, Family therapy, Cultural issues (adapting to the western culture), and Gay/Lesbian family issues.
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward and Integrative approach and have our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tends toward a systems based approach using behavior methods.
(773) 312-3612 View (773) 312-3612
Photo of Donna Brooks, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Crystal Lake, IL
Donna Brooks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PLLC
Verified Verified
Crystal Lake, IL 60039
Supporting you on your journey of mental, emotional, and spiritual health is important to me. If you are dealing with anxiety, stress, depression, life transitions, marital/relationship issues, parenting/familial issues, or loss, I will partner with you to work towards resolution. I provide an affirming and creative space in which to explore your challenges - aware that we are all perfectly imperfect and striving - and there is hope! "There is a crack in everything. That's how the light gets in." -Leonard Cohen
Supporting you on your journey of mental, emotional, and spiritual health is important to me. If you are dealing with anxiety, stress, depression, life transitions, marital/relationship issues, parenting/familial issues, or loss, I will partner with you to work towards resolution. I provide an affirming and creative space in which to explore your challenges - aware that we are all perfectly imperfect and striving - and there is hope! "There is a crack in everything. That's how the light gets in." -Leonard Cohen
(224) 479-1180 View (224) 479-1180
Photo of Judy A Carlson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Crystal Lake, IL
Judy A Carlson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CRADC
Verified Verified
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
I believe in working collaboratively with a client to help them work through problems and barriers so that they can reach their unique potential. I believe in a positive, solution focused approach, which encourages hope and gratitude related to all of life's lessons.
I believe in working collaboratively with a client to help them work through problems and barriers so that they can reach their unique potential. I believe in a positive, solution focused approach, which encourages hope and gratitude related to all of life's lessons.
(847) 813-7320 x132 View (847) 813-7320 x132
Photo of McKenna Noyes, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Crystal Lake, IL
McKenna Noyes
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
Reaching out for help in our most vulnerable moments can be overwhelming and scary. Sometimes our self talk convinces us that we should figure it out on our own, or that our problems aren’t as bad as they could be - and we find ourselves hesitant to make that next step. I will meet your bravery and vulnerability with compassion, curiosity, feeling, and a bit of humor. I want to center what matters to you, develop skills and abilities, and help you rediscover a fullness in being alive and in your body. My areas of experience include working with individuals of the LBGTQ+, and navigating barriers to receiving gender affirming care.
Reaching out for help in our most vulnerable moments can be overwhelming and scary. Sometimes our self talk convinces us that we should figure it out on our own, or that our problems aren’t as bad as they could be - and we find ourselves hesitant to make that next step. I will meet your bravery and vulnerability with compassion, curiosity, feeling, and a bit of humor. I want to center what matters to you, develop skills and abilities, and help you rediscover a fullness in being alive and in your body. My areas of experience include working with individuals of the LBGTQ+, and navigating barriers to receiving gender affirming care.
(224) 529-0421 View (224) 529-0421
Photo of David P Cook, Marriage & Family Therapist in Crystal Lake, IL
David P Cook
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MDiv, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Crystal Lake, IL 60012
Does if feel like you're at a loss for how to make things better? Are you struggling with a relationship problem, and individual challenge or family conflict? Are you not "feeling the love" in your marriage, stressed over a life event, or trying to keep your family from falling apart? If you answered "yes" to any of this questions, it might be time to give me a call. I am confident that together we can work to help equip you with the necessary tools to help you face and overcome these challenges.
Does if feel like you're at a loss for how to make things better? Are you struggling with a relationship problem, and individual challenge or family conflict? Are you not "feeling the love" in your marriage, stressed over a life event, or trying to keep your family from falling apart? If you answered "yes" to any of this questions, it might be time to give me a call. I am confident that together we can work to help equip you with the necessary tools to help you face and overcome these challenges.
(815) 768-4712 View (815) 768-4712
Photo of Kristin Camorlinga, Counselor in Crystal Lake, IL
Kristin Camorlinga
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
Kristin Camorlinga, LCPC, received her Masters in Counseling from Loyola University in 2012. She specializes in working with children, adolescents and their families and has been doing so in different capacities since 1995. She has counseled bilingually in many settings including three schools, a domestic abuse shelter, two non-for-profits and two community public health agencies. She is passionate about helping people overcome mental health difficulties so they can reach their greatest potential and live their best life.
Kristin Camorlinga, LCPC, received her Masters in Counseling from Loyola University in 2012. She specializes in working with children, adolescents and their families and has been doing so in different capacities since 1995. She has counseled bilingually in many settings including three schools, a domestic abuse shelter, two non-for-profits and two community public health agencies. She is passionate about helping people overcome mental health difficulties so they can reach their greatest potential and live their best life.
(224) 412-5788 x142 View (224) 412-5788 x142
Photo of Blair Counseling and Mediation in Crystal Lake, IL
Blair Counseling and Mediation
LMFT, LCPC, NCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Crystal Lake, IL 60012
Our clients enjoy humor, are honest, and are wanting to try new things if it makes sense to them. Some want relief from depression, or various forms of anxiety including trauma and grief. Others struggle with addictions and addictive behavior and are looking for ways to feel more in control. Or, they have concerns about their kids, ADHD, autism, or other behavior, and would like someone to come along side them to help support them or their child. Services are also available in Spanish. Christian counseling can be requested. Prefer Communication Coaching to Therapy? Find our app (MinuteMood.com) on Google Play and Apple Play stores.
Our clients enjoy humor, are honest, and are wanting to try new things if it makes sense to them. Some want relief from depression, or various forms of anxiety including trauma and grief. Others struggle with addictions and addictive behavior and are looking for ways to feel more in control. Or, they have concerns about their kids, ADHD, autism, or other behavior, and would like someone to come along side them to help support them or their child. Services are also available in Spanish. Christian counseling can be requested. Prefer Communication Coaching to Therapy? Find our app (MinuteMood.com) on Google Play and Apple Play stores.
(815) 450-9902 View (815) 450-9902
Kennis Harr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
Waitlist for new clients
I'm here as a compassionate guide, offering support and encouragement as you embrace your innate strengths, fostering growth, and navigating life's intricacies with resilience and self-compassion. We often believe we are broken, unlovable, or inadequate; I provide a safe space to share and deconstruct those beliefs. I specialize in supporting individuals navigating personality/mood disorders, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, substance use, life transitions, military issues/transitions, and LGBTQIA+ issues.
I'm here as a compassionate guide, offering support and encouragement as you embrace your innate strengths, fostering growth, and navigating life's intricacies with resilience and self-compassion. We often believe we are broken, unlovable, or inadequate; I provide a safe space to share and deconstruct those beliefs. I specialize in supporting individuals navigating personality/mood disorders, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, substance use, life transitions, military issues/transitions, and LGBTQIA+ issues.
(815) 473-8371 View (815) 473-8371
Photo of Gina Collori, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Crystal Lake, IL
Gina Collori
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Crystal Lake, IL 60012
I truly believe that all humans have the capacity to heal, adapt and transform our lives. When given the right tools and support, we become empowered for change. The primary focus of my practice is support individuals as they work to cope and heal from complex trauma, addictive behaviors, and codependency. I strive to nurture and empower my clients without enabling. I am neurodivergent-affirming and support my clients in developing feeling understandings of themselves. I hold a warm, down to earth, and non-judgmental therapeutic space where all can feel secure.
I truly believe that all humans have the capacity to heal, adapt and transform our lives. When given the right tools and support, we become empowered for change. The primary focus of my practice is support individuals as they work to cope and heal from complex trauma, addictive behaviors, and codependency. I strive to nurture and empower my clients without enabling. I am neurodivergent-affirming and support my clients in developing feeling understandings of themselves. I hold a warm, down to earth, and non-judgmental therapeutic space where all can feel secure.
(847) 347-0387 View (847) 347-0387
Photo of Sharon K Fu, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Crystal Lake, IL
Sharon K Fu
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
Currently Accepting New Clients. Reaching out for help can be stressful and scary but it doesn't need to be. I provide a supportive, nonjudgmental and comfortable setting to women where we will work collaboratively to address any issue and worries.
Currently Accepting New Clients. Reaching out for help can be stressful and scary but it doesn't need to be. I provide a supportive, nonjudgmental and comfortable setting to women where we will work collaboratively to address any issue and worries.
(224) 249-3138 View (224) 249-3138
Photo of Next Direction Counseling, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Crystal Lake, IL
Next Direction Counseling
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
Life can be difficult and at times people need an outside source of support. Through a collaborative approach, the focus at Next Direction is developing skills and insight that help the client navigate and resolve the issues that brought them to counseling. Because clients need to feel comfortable with the counselor they select, Next Direction Counseling offers an initial phone consultation to discuss your counseling goals and answer any questions. We believe providing an introductory meeting allows clients to make informed decisions about their mental healthcare and facilitates a positive counseling experience.
Life can be difficult and at times people need an outside source of support. Through a collaborative approach, the focus at Next Direction is developing skills and insight that help the client navigate and resolve the issues that brought them to counseling. Because clients need to feel comfortable with the counselor they select, Next Direction Counseling offers an initial phone consultation to discuss your counseling goals and answer any questions. We believe providing an introductory meeting allows clients to make informed decisions about their mental healthcare and facilitates a positive counseling experience.
(779) 218-9987 View (779) 218-9987
Photo of Audrey DaMore, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Crystal Lake, IL
Audrey DaMore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW , CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
Are you feeling low or anxious, but can’t sort out why? Would you like to better understand your emotional and physical reactions? Maybe you’re noticing themes in your relationships and wondering how childhood experiences challenge these connections? Focused on soothing the nervous system and recognizing the parts that form you, our work together will help you restore your sense of wholeness. By honoring self-energy, letting go of burdens, and learning to trust your internal wisdom, you can find calm in everyday life.
Are you feeling low or anxious, but can’t sort out why? Would you like to better understand your emotional and physical reactions? Maybe you’re noticing themes in your relationships and wondering how childhood experiences challenge these connections? Focused on soothing the nervous system and recognizing the parts that form you, our work together will help you restore your sense of wholeness. By honoring self-energy, letting go of burdens, and learning to trust your internal wisdom, you can find calm in everyday life.
(779) 209-0965 View (779) 209-0965

See more therapy options for Crystal Lake

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.