Therapists in Charlotte, NC
Jessica L. Massey, LCSW, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28226
I provide individual therapy for disorders which include depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder and attention deficit disorder. I see a range of ages, from adolescents to adults.
I provide individual therapy for disorders which include depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder and attention deficit disorder. I see a range of ages, from adolescents to adults.
David K. Massey, MSW, LCSW, BCD
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28211
I'm a directive and empowering therapist with over 30 years of experience. I provide individual and couples therapy for people suffering with depression, bipolar and other mood disorders using a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) as well as other treatment modalities.
I'm a directive and empowering therapist with over 30 years of experience. I provide individual and couples therapy for people suffering with depression, bipolar and other mood disorders using a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) as well as other treatment modalities.
Anna Lanier-Comar
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28202 (Online Only)
I have been practicing in the mental health field for 17 years. I served in the Air Force Reserves for 8 years as a Mental Health Technician while earning my MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I completed the requirements for Licensure while working at an inpatient Eating Disorder Facility in North Carolina. I have been practicing as a Licensed Therapist since 2017. Most of my professional experience is in treating Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar disorder, Borderline personality disorder and Eating disorders. I use a few different modalities in therapy.
I have been practicing in the mental health field for 17 years. I served in the Air Force Reserves for 8 years as a Mental Health Technician while earning my MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I completed the requirements for Licensure while working at an inpatient Eating Disorder Facility in North Carolina. I have been practicing as a Licensed Therapist since 2017. Most of my professional experience is in treating Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar disorder, Borderline personality disorder and Eating disorders. I use a few different modalities in therapy.
Kathleen Marie Monforton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28204
Waitlist for new clients
Is fear, anxiety, or panic preventing you from living the life you want? Are you struggling with changes in thought, behavior, or mood? If this sounds like you, I’d like to help. I have 10+ years of experience working with adults diagnosed with schizophrenia and other severe mental illnesses and I currently specialize in anxiety, bipolar disorder, & psychosis. However, I also work with clients 15 years of age and older struggling with depression, perfectionism, distress tolerance, substance use, life changes, stress management, dating, or just “adulting”. I offer sessions virtually and in person in Elizabeth area of Charlotte.
Is fear, anxiety, or panic preventing you from living the life you want? Are you struggling with changes in thought, behavior, or mood? If this sounds like you, I’d like to help. I have 10+ years of experience working with adults diagnosed with schizophrenia and other severe mental illnesses and I currently specialize in anxiety, bipolar disorder, & psychosis. However, I also work with clients 15 years of age and older struggling with depression, perfectionism, distress tolerance, substance use, life changes, stress management, dating, or just “adulting”. I offer sessions virtually and in person in Elizabeth area of Charlotte.
Well3Plus Collaborative Care
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28203
I specialize in helping people who experience symptoms related to disorders, like: Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective Disorder, Bipolar, PTSD, Depression and more, live more productive lives.
Do you struggle with serious mental illness & psychosis? Are you dealing with the effects of trauma? Are you having difficulty balancing roles & responsibilities? Are you experiencing instability, stress, anxiety & more? Don’t give up on yourself, you deserve much more and I would be honored to partner with you on your journey upward. With therapy, intensive case management & skill building, I will work with you to manage symptoms, sort through difficult feelings, organize your life & connect with community resources to increase your independence & self-reliance.
I specialize in helping people who experience symptoms related to disorders, like: Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective Disorder, Bipolar, PTSD, Depression and more, live more productive lives.
Do you struggle with serious mental illness & psychosis? Are you dealing with the effects of trauma? Are you having difficulty balancing roles & responsibilities? Are you experiencing instability, stress, anxiety & more? Don’t give up on yourself, you deserve much more and I would be honored to partner with you on your journey upward. With therapy, intensive case management & skill building, I will work with you to manage symptoms, sort through difficult feelings, organize your life & connect with community resources to increase your independence & self-reliance.
Frances Jacobs Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MEd, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28210
Areas of experience include: depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, grief/loss, life transitions, healing childhood wounds and relationship issues both past and present.
I earned my masters in counseling from the University of New Orleans in 1987. I earned my masters in social work from the University of South Carolina in 1994. I have worked for over 12 years as a clinical therapist/professional counselor. My clinical and counseling experiences have been in a variety of settings to include private practice, mental health agencies, foster care, department of social services and community outreach. I have had the opportunity to work with children 11+, teens and adults. I believe that therapy has the ability to promote hope, growth and change.
Areas of experience include: depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, grief/loss, life transitions, healing childhood wounds and relationship issues both past and present.
I earned my masters in counseling from the University of New Orleans in 1987. I earned my masters in social work from the University of South Carolina in 1994. I have worked for over 12 years as a clinical therapist/professional counselor. My clinical and counseling experiences have been in a variety of settings to include private practice, mental health agencies, foster care, department of social services and community outreach. I have had the opportunity to work with children 11+, teens and adults. I believe that therapy has the ability to promote hope, growth and change.
Beighley Thornock
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28262
I specialize in trauma, anxiety, and mood disorders (such as depression and bipolar).
I enjoy working with teens and adults, helping them manage the various stressors and anxieties in their lives. I also help couples and families navigate issues they may be experiencing together. I believe that through working together, we will be able to help you achieve your goals and work through the difficulties that come in your life. Always recognizing that clients are the expert of their own life experience, I strive to create a safe and supportive environment for all my clients to promote self-exploration and healing, help them grow, and empower them on their life's journey.
I specialize in trauma, anxiety, and mood disorders (such as depression and bipolar).
I enjoy working with teens and adults, helping them manage the various stressors and anxieties in their lives. I also help couples and families navigate issues they may be experiencing together. I believe that through working together, we will be able to help you achieve your goals and work through the difficulties that come in your life. Always recognizing that clients are the expert of their own life experience, I strive to create a safe and supportive environment for all my clients to promote self-exploration and healing, help them grow, and empower them on their life's journey.
Clear Mind Counseling LLC
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28262
My experience includes treatment in a psychiatric setting for adults diagnosed with Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, and Adjustment Disorder.
The trauma of addiction touches all of us in one way or another. Recognizing how addiction impacts you physically, mentally, and spiritually can be an awesome awakening to an entirely new way of life. Often individuals suffer from the consequences of making high risk decisions that cause crisis for themselves and their families. Dealing with these consequences alone may increase the desire to continue substances and more negative consequences. Allow me shed light on how to end this vicious cycle. I am a dedicated and compassionate clinician that is committed to the well being of my clients and their families.
My experience includes treatment in a psychiatric setting for adults diagnosed with Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, and Adjustment Disorder.
The trauma of addiction touches all of us in one way or another. Recognizing how addiction impacts you physically, mentally, and spiritually can be an awesome awakening to an entirely new way of life. Often individuals suffer from the consequences of making high risk decisions that cause crisis for themselves and their families. Dealing with these consequences alone may increase the desire to continue substances and more negative consequences. Allow me shed light on how to end this vicious cycle. I am a dedicated and compassionate clinician that is committed to the well being of my clients and their families.
SHINE Counseling, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28262
Our experience includes working with youth, adults and families focused on mood disorders (depression, anxiety, Bipolar II), behavior modification, interpersonal development (relationships), trauma, and substance abuse.
Asking for help is an act of strength, courage, and resilience. If you or a loved one suffers from trauma, anxiety, and depression, contact us. For a faster response, please email. Negative thoughts, feelings, and self-defeating behaviors get in the way of us realizing our full potential. We facilitate the healing process needed to recover. We know that with adequate support, compassion, and insight, one can have a new lease on life. We believe in the power we have to transform and overcome minor mistakes to the most significant obstacles to live the life that we want to live, enabling peace to surface and calmness to be present.
Our experience includes working with youth, adults and families focused on mood disorders (depression, anxiety, Bipolar II), behavior modification, interpersonal development (relationships), trauma, and substance abuse.
Asking for help is an act of strength, courage, and resilience. If you or a loved one suffers from trauma, anxiety, and depression, contact us. For a faster response, please email. Negative thoughts, feelings, and self-defeating behaviors get in the way of us realizing our full potential. We facilitate the healing process needed to recover. We know that with adequate support, compassion, and insight, one can have a new lease on life. We believe in the power we have to transform and overcome minor mistakes to the most significant obstacles to live the life that we want to live, enabling peace to surface and calmness to be present.
Kimberly A. (Vogel) Whalen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28277
I have worked with a variety of populations and culturally diverse ethnic groups managing attachment injuries, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, high functioning Autism, codependency, grief, marital/family conflict, infidelity, parenting issues, self-esteem concerns, life transitions, women/men’s issues, and day-to-day stressors.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I obtained my undergraduate degree in Clinical Psychology and graduate degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. My therapy approach is taken from an attachment theory and perspective. I believe humans are wired to feel connected, and that we all greatly benefit from healthy relationships. Without this connectedness, we may experience loneliness or isolation. I provide a safe, accepting space for individuals, couples, and families using a positive Existential Therapy Model to support self-awareness, meaningful relationships, and values of life.
I have worked with a variety of populations and culturally diverse ethnic groups managing attachment injuries, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, high functioning Autism, codependency, grief, marital/family conflict, infidelity, parenting issues, self-esteem concerns, life transitions, women/men’s issues, and day-to-day stressors.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I obtained my undergraduate degree in Clinical Psychology and graduate degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. My therapy approach is taken from an attachment theory and perspective. I believe humans are wired to feel connected, and that we all greatly benefit from healthy relationships. Without this connectedness, we may experience loneliness or isolation. I provide a safe, accepting space for individuals, couples, and families using a positive Existential Therapy Model to support self-awareness, meaningful relationships, and values of life.
Amanda Richardson
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28282 (Online Only)
My special interests include relational issues, communication skills, adjustment issues, and mild psychiatric diagnoses such as: anxiety & depression, bipolar, personality disorders, and conduct disorders.
Hello and Welcome! First and foremost, I'd like to commend you on taking the first step. Oftentimes the first step is the hardest, but... YOU'VE DONE IT! Often, I ask clients, “How do you eat an elephant?” After the looks of bewilderment subside, I am most often told, “You can’t”. As your counselor, it is my hope to show you that it can be accomplished. But how? "One small bite at a time." My ideal client is one who is willing to take a chance on becoming the absolute best version of themselves. It is my hope that in working together, we can tackle the stressors of everyday life and get back to living a fulfilled life.
My special interests include relational issues, communication skills, adjustment issues, and mild psychiatric diagnoses such as: anxiety & depression, bipolar, personality disorders, and conduct disorders.
Hello and Welcome! First and foremost, I'd like to commend you on taking the first step. Oftentimes the first step is the hardest, but... YOU'VE DONE IT! Often, I ask clients, “How do you eat an elephant?” After the looks of bewilderment subside, I am most often told, “You can’t”. As your counselor, it is my hope to show you that it can be accomplished. But how? "One small bite at a time." My ideal client is one who is willing to take a chance on becoming the absolute best version of themselves. It is my hope that in working together, we can tackle the stressors of everyday life and get back to living a fulfilled life.
15 Second Videos
Jessica L. Massey, LCSW, PLLC
Kathleen Marie Monforton
Well3Plus Collaborative Care
SHINE Counseling, PLLC
Compass Life Skills and Counseling
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Integrity House Treatment Services
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Kristin Hammond
BayElla Counseling Services
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Matthew House Counseling Center/Anthony Redfearn
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Megan Ashley Smith
La'Tracia S Jones
Believe Within Counseling, PLLC
Samantha Speed
Robin Fine
Self Talk Counseling Consulting
Blake Clemmons
Art of Care Counseling
Karen McKinney
Diana Levitt
Danelle Brown Holbrook
Brittany C. (Ptsd Specialist)
Steffie M Beard
Blossom Wellness Plaza Midwood
Justin J. B. (Lgbtq+ Therapist)
Kirsten Cole
Alexis J Stein
Jeff Helms
Markeeta Bryant
Sarah Webber
James Hanrahan
Arise Wellness, LLC
Richard Halliburton
Rita L Berry
Richard McDonald
Another Level Counseling and Consultation
Bethany V
Sister WELLS Counseling, Coaching & Consulting
Erica A Merrill
Erik Goldfield, Individual & Family Therapist
Laura Saune
Bethany Otten
Elizabeth Nailling
Donna Murray
ShiftingParadigms Counseling and Consulting, PC
Kelly Stilwell Saylor
Margurite Reaves
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28277
Hello, my name is Margurite Reaves; I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW). I approach the therapeutic process with an individualized approach. My areas of expertise include mood disorders, unhealthy attachment patterns, trauma, and conduct disorders. I have several years of experience working with adults, children/adolescence, and families in areas that include but are not limited to depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, relationship issues, adjustment issues, defiant behaviors, stress management, and trauma.
Hello, my name is Margurite Reaves; I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW). I approach the therapeutic process with an individualized approach. My areas of expertise include mood disorders, unhealthy attachment patterns, trauma, and conduct disorders. I have several years of experience working with adults, children/adolescence, and families in areas that include but are not limited to depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, relationship issues, adjustment issues, defiant behaviors, stress management, and trauma.
Compass Life Skills and Counseling
Counselor, LCMHC, TF-CBT, BC-TMH, NCC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28269
We are proficient in treating mental health diagnosis from PTSD to Bipolar.
Life can be difficult for even the strongest person. We are an agency committed to helping you heal from devastating experiences and traumatic situations. Our therapists will help you identify, label and heal the emotional wounds that have developed. Our goal is for you to be your BEST SELF! No matter the situation, our non-judgemental approach creates a safe space for healing to take place.
We are proficient in treating mental health diagnosis from PTSD to Bipolar.
Life can be difficult for even the strongest person. We are an agency committed to helping you heal from devastating experiences and traumatic situations. Our therapists will help you identify, label and heal the emotional wounds that have developed. Our goal is for you to be your BEST SELF! No matter the situation, our non-judgemental approach creates a safe space for healing to take place.
Sherille Denise Barber
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28216
My typical client focus is adults, couples, and families who are struggling with relationship issues that typically revolve around communication styles, adults struggling with depressive symptoms as well as anxiety symptoms and other adult disorders commonly seen, such as bipolar disorder and trauma-related disorders.
Hello, my name is Dr. Sherille Barber, and I am a licensed clinical counselor in the states of North and South Carolina. I have worked in the mental health field for over 35 years and primarily utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to aid clients in reaching their optimum potential in life. I primarily work with those battling depression and anxiety as well as those dealing with trauma-related issues.
My typical client focus is adults, couples, and families who are struggling with relationship issues that typically revolve around communication styles, adults struggling with depressive symptoms as well as anxiety symptoms and other adult disorders commonly seen, such as bipolar disorder and trauma-related disorders.
Hello, my name is Dr. Sherille Barber, and I am a licensed clinical counselor in the states of North and South Carolina. I have worked in the mental health field for over 35 years and primarily utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to aid clients in reaching their optimum potential in life. I primarily work with those battling depression and anxiety as well as those dealing with trauma-related issues.
Kimberly D. Williams
Counselor, MA, NCC, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28204
However, Kim also has experience in treating a variety of challenges including bipolar disorder, domestic violence and depression.
For many of life’s issues, it is helpful to talk with someone within a nonjudgmental, safe environment. To be listened to and heard in a way that facilitates an understanding of what the underlying origin of the problem is in order to bring about healing. Kimberly uses the psychodynamic approach to counseling as a means to assist clients with understanding themselves more deeply. Serving adults, couples and adolescents, she collaborates with the client to address patterns and behaviors that disrupt wellbeing.
However, Kim also has experience in treating a variety of challenges including bipolar disorder, domestic violence and depression.
For many of life’s issues, it is helpful to talk with someone within a nonjudgmental, safe environment. To be listened to and heard in a way that facilitates an understanding of what the underlying origin of the problem is in order to bring about healing. Kimberly uses the psychodynamic approach to counseling as a means to assist clients with understanding themselves more deeply. Serving adults, couples and adolescents, she collaborates with the client to address patterns and behaviors that disrupt wellbeing.
Rebecca G Weisenthal
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28262
I have more than 20+ years experience as a psychologist treating adults of all ages. My areas of specialty include, but are not limited to, depression and anxiety management; bipolar disorder; grief and loss issues; issues related to life transitions; and diversity issues. I provide clinical services based upon empirically validated approaches to therapy that have a proven track record of effectiveness. I will work to assist clients in developing coping skills and increased knowledge regarding self-care for psychological and psychiatric difficulties. I bring a passion to clinical work based on my experience in a variety of community settings.
I have more than 20+ years experience as a psychologist treating adults of all ages. My areas of specialty include, but are not limited to, depression and anxiety management; bipolar disorder; grief and loss issues; issues related to life transitions; and diversity issues. I provide clinical services based upon empirically validated approaches to therapy that have a proven track record of effectiveness. I will work to assist clients in developing coping skills and increased knowledge regarding self-care for psychological and psychiatric difficulties. I bring a passion to clinical work based on my experience in a variety of community settings.
Ciarra Spruill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS, LISWCP
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28269 (Online Only)
Life is tough, but so are you! I am a dual licensed therapist in mental health and substance abuse and the owner of Emerge Therapy & Consulting. I understand life circumstances that negatively impact individuals mentally and emotionally. I provide diagnosis & treatment in several areas such as depression, couples therapy, anxiety, bipolar, narcissistic personality disorder and borderline personality disorder. Allow me to assist you in emerging from your inner shadow and becoming a healthier, authentic you! Remember, broken crayons still color.
Life is tough, but so are you! I am a dual licensed therapist in mental health and substance abuse and the owner of Emerge Therapy & Consulting. I understand life circumstances that negatively impact individuals mentally and emotionally. I provide diagnosis & treatment in several areas such as depression, couples therapy, anxiety, bipolar, narcissistic personality disorder and borderline personality disorder. Allow me to assist you in emerging from your inner shadow and becoming a healthier, authentic you! Remember, broken crayons still color.
Beverly (Mecca) L Moss
Counselor, MA, LCMHC-S, LCAS-A
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28205
Moss Counseling Services specializes in the following populations: Transgender, gender non-conforming, Lesbian ,Gay , Sexually aggressive youth, Trauma Focused(CBT), ADHD * Anxiety Disorder * Bipolar Disorder * Compulsive Disorder * Depression * Sexuality Identity * Childhood /adolescent Behavioral concerns, Learning /academic Disabilities * Panic Disorder * schizophrenia * Substance Abuse * Grief and Loss.
"Beginning therapy can be a very difficult decision for one to make. I am so excited that you have taken the first step in this rewarding journey!" My passion and goals are to assist others to experience healing and wholeness in life through management of the symptoms that cause dysfunction in everyday lives. Today you are one step closer to a new you where you feel empowered and on a positive path to growth and well-being. As an integrated therapist my goal is to help you figure out how to use your own resiliency."
Moss Counseling Services specializes in the following populations: Transgender, gender non-conforming, Lesbian ,Gay , Sexually aggressive youth, Trauma Focused(CBT), ADHD * Anxiety Disorder * Bipolar Disorder * Compulsive Disorder * Depression * Sexuality Identity * Childhood /adolescent Behavioral concerns, Learning /academic Disabilities * Panic Disorder * schizophrenia * Substance Abuse * Grief and Loss.
"Beginning therapy can be a very difficult decision for one to make. I am so excited that you have taken the first step in this rewarding journey!" My passion and goals are to assist others to experience healing and wholeness in life through management of the symptoms that cause dysfunction in everyday lives. Today you are one step closer to a new you where you feel empowered and on a positive path to growth and well-being. As an integrated therapist my goal is to help you figure out how to use your own resiliency."
Kristen Pascal
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28210
My specialty areas include working with anxiety disorders, OCD, depression, bipolar disorder, trauma/PTSD, life transitions, and other presenting challenges.
Welcome! I'm glad you're here. Whether you've tried therapy before or you're brand new to the process, taking these first steps can be nerve-wracking. Because of this, I believe that the safe, trusting environment and relationship built between therapist and client is at the core of this work. What’s most important to me is that you feel comfortable being yourself in therapy, and my goal is that you always feel heard, supported, and accepted. Therapy is different for everybody, and I want this process to be unique and personal to you and your needs.
My specialty areas include working with anxiety disorders, OCD, depression, bipolar disorder, trauma/PTSD, life transitions, and other presenting challenges.
Welcome! I'm glad you're here. Whether you've tried therapy before or you're brand new to the process, taking these first steps can be nerve-wracking. Because of this, I believe that the safe, trusting environment and relationship built between therapist and client is at the core of this work. What’s most important to me is that you feel comfortable being yourself in therapy, and my goal is that you always feel heard, supported, and accepted. Therapy is different for everybody, and I want this process to be unique and personal to you and your needs.
Tiffany Henry
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28211
Waitlist for new clients
I am a licensed counselor that provides therapy for children, adolescents, adults and their families. My goal is to provide a safe and welcoming atmosphere for every person that allows me the opportunity to help them navigate through some of life's toughest challenges. I use a variety of approaches and techniques that fit clients based on their personality and area of comfort. My experience includes but is not limited to issues such as anxiety, depression, oppositional defiance, ADD/ADHD, parenting challenges, and bipolar disorder.
I am a licensed counselor that provides therapy for children, adolescents, adults and their families. My goal is to provide a safe and welcoming atmosphere for every person that allows me the opportunity to help them navigate through some of life's toughest challenges. I use a variety of approaches and techniques that fit clients based on their personality and area of comfort. My experience includes but is not limited to issues such as anxiety, depression, oppositional defiance, ADD/ADHD, parenting challenges, and bipolar disorder.
See more therapy options for Charlotte
Nearby Bipolar Disorder Therapists Searches for Charlotte
- Belmont
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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.