Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Northampton County, VA

Photo of Shore Therapy, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Northampton County, VA
Shore Therapy, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CSOTP, LSAT
Verified Verified
Cape Charles, VA 23310
Other experience includes, anxiety, depression, anger, self-esteem, life changes, LGBT, OCD, Bipolar disorders, stress management, grief, isolation and loneliness, guilt, ADHD and focus.
I am a Culturally competent Psychotherapist with over 15 years of experience working with diverse populations providing treatment using various evidence-based, person-centered treatment modalities. I do not believe in stigmatizing or judging people, nor do I believe that people "are" their diagnosis. I believe that the relationship between client and therapist is one of the most important tools of change, so I strive to create a safe space where the client feels free to be their authentic self. I have experience working with individuals, groups, couples, polyamorous, unions, and justice involved clients.
Other experience includes, anxiety, depression, anger, self-esteem, life changes, LGBT, OCD, Bipolar disorders, stress management, grief, isolation and loneliness, guilt, ADHD and focus.
I am a Culturally competent Psychotherapist with over 15 years of experience working with diverse populations providing treatment using various evidence-based, person-centered treatment modalities. I do not believe in stigmatizing or judging people, nor do I believe that people "are" their diagnosis. I believe that the relationship between client and therapist is one of the most important tools of change, so I strive to create a safe space where the client feels free to be their authentic self. I have experience working with individuals, groups, couples, polyamorous, unions, and justice involved clients.
(757) 801-3797 View (757) 801-3797
Photo of Solutions Psychotherapy in Northampton County, VA
Solutions Psychotherapy
Verified Verified
Cape Charles, VA 23310
Accepting new patients (ages 6 yrs-65 yrs) for Medication Management and limited therapy with online, virtual, or in person appointments available. So if you are a new patient or need a change from your current provider, we're here for you. Our staff will provide a safe space to explore your needs, questions and beliefs in a nonjudgmental environment, while working toward positive solutions for the future. As a small group of experienced mental health professionals, we offer a variety of research-based, therapeutic approaches and medication management, in a comfortable setting without the "big office" feel.
Accepting new patients (ages 6 yrs-65 yrs) for Medication Management and limited therapy with online, virtual, or in person appointments available. So if you are a new patient or need a change from your current provider, we're here for you. Our staff will provide a safe space to explore your needs, questions and beliefs in a nonjudgmental environment, while working toward positive solutions for the future. As a small group of experienced mental health professionals, we offer a variety of research-based, therapeutic approaches and medication management, in a comfortable setting without the "big office" feel.
(757) 379-8897 View (757) 379-8897
Photo of Life Domains and Eudaimonia Tessellation Center, Licensed Professional Counselor in Northampton County, VA
Life Domains and Eudaimonia Tessellation Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC, LMFT, LSATP, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cape Charles, VA 23310  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
The first step towards figuring out what is wrong is getting in touch with your life domains—exploring different aspects of life we experience through living well and covering all the surfaces. As an innovative therapist, I can help you work through these tough times in the comfort of your personal space. I have experience working with adults and couples. As a professional mental health care provider, I am familiar with animal-assisted therapies. I can help you get a certification for your pet or locate a program or animal that is right for you.
The first step towards figuring out what is wrong is getting in touch with your life domains—exploring different aspects of life we experience through living well and covering all the surfaces. As an innovative therapist, I can help you work through these tough times in the comfort of your personal space. I have experience working with adults and couples. As a professional mental health care provider, I am familiar with animal-assisted therapies. I can help you get a certification for your pet or locate a program or animal that is right for you.
(757) 330-1780 View (757) 330-1780

Online Therapists

Photo of Jing Yuan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Northampton County, VA
Jing Yuan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23225  (Online Only)
I treat individuals with anxiety, depression, bipolar, trauma and relationship problems.
Welcome! Thank you for taking the time to care for your mental health! Although I don’t know what you are going through, I’m convinced that you are ready to take more control of your life. It will be my honor to work alongside you during this meaningful journey.
I treat individuals with anxiety, depression, bipolar, trauma and relationship problems.
Welcome! Thank you for taking the time to care for your mental health! Although I don’t know what you are going through, I’m convinced that you are ready to take more control of your life. It will be my honor to work alongside you during this meaningful journey.
(571) 946-6597 View (571) 946-6597
Photo of Shantel Cooper, Resident in Counseling in Northampton County, VA
Shantel Cooper
Resident in Counseling, MEd, LMHP-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23236
Do you speak your child's language? In today's world, chances are the answer is no. My name is Shantel, Resident in Counseling at Centering Elements. I specialize in families. I enjoy using my professional experience and person-centered approach to assist parents with cultivating healthy relationships with their children. I have experience with Depression, ADHD, Anxiety, Substance use, Bipolar I and II, as well as changes in family dynamics. I have assisted children and their parents with learning to communicate effectively, establishing boundaries, and navigating conflicts.
Do you speak your child's language? In today's world, chances are the answer is no. My name is Shantel, Resident in Counseling at Centering Elements. I specialize in families. I enjoy using my professional experience and person-centered approach to assist parents with cultivating healthy relationships with their children. I have experience with Depression, ADHD, Anxiety, Substance use, Bipolar I and II, as well as changes in family dynamics. I have assisted children and their parents with learning to communicate effectively, establishing boundaries, and navigating conflicts.
(804) 395-5304 x6 View (804) 395-5304 x6
Photo of Roderick A. Hampton II, Licensed Professional Counselor in Northampton County, VA
Roderick A. Hampton II
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23230  (Online Only)
I have more than 15 years of experience working with children, adolescents and adults who are seeking help with mental health concerns related to depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, trauma, anxiety, PTSD, substance use disorders, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, as well as life transitions and other obstacles.
Wellness has been defined as a way of life oriented toward optimal health and well-being in which body, mind, and spirit are integrated to live more fully within the human and natural community. Ideally, it is the optimum state of health and well-being that each individual is capable of achieving. When working together in counseling, I perceive one’s thoughts are related to their feelings and reactions to events, not the events themselves. Counseling sessions are individualized to meet the unique needs of each client.
I have more than 15 years of experience working with children, adolescents and adults who are seeking help with mental health concerns related to depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, trauma, anxiety, PTSD, substance use disorders, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, as well as life transitions and other obstacles.
Wellness has been defined as a way of life oriented toward optimal health and well-being in which body, mind, and spirit are integrated to live more fully within the human and natural community. Ideally, it is the optimum state of health and well-being that each individual is capable of achieving. When working together in counseling, I perceive one’s thoughts are related to their feelings and reactions to events, not the events themselves. Counseling sessions are individualized to meet the unique needs of each client.
(804) 258-6027 View (804) 258-6027
Photo of Alliance Family Counseling, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Northampton County, VA
Alliance Family Counseling, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
My professional experience includes the provision of clinical services in both residential (milieu) therapy and outpatient practice clinical specialties include Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, Borderline Personality, Schizoaffective Disorder, PTSD, Attachment, Anger Management and Grief and loss, etc. I have expertise in trauma recovery, specifically healing from childhood physical, emotional and sexual abuse. I accept and work with patients of all age ranges and work with clients who are over the age of 65.
My professional experience includes the provision of clinical services in both residential (milieu) therapy and outpatient practice clinical specialties include Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, Borderline Personality, Schizoaffective Disorder, PTSD, Attachment, Anger Management and Grief and loss, etc. I have expertise in trauma recovery, specifically healing from childhood physical, emotional and sexual abuse. I accept and work with patients of all age ranges and work with clients who are over the age of 65.
(804) 207-7220 View (804) 207-7220
Photo of Lawrence M Ross, Psychologist in Northampton County, VA
Lawrence M Ross
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Norfolk, VA 23510
Specialty areas include: ADHD, Learning Disabilities,School or Behavior problems, Socialization issues, Depression,Bipolar Disorder,Anxiety, Asperger's/ASD Anger/Stress Management,Military Issues,Parenting Issues, Communication and Relationship difficulties,Family Therapy and Marital Therapy.
If you're looking for a psychologist who is easy to speak with, has a wide variety of experience, who offers cost effective confidential treatment and who has a proven track record of helping people manage the challenges in their lives, then look no further! I have been in practice for over 25 years. My work with clients includes: *Individual Therapy (with children, adolescents and adults). *Family Therapy. *Parenting Issues .*ADHD/Learning Disabilities Testing and Treatment. *Marital/Couples Therapy (including Collaborative Marital/Couples Therapy). *Separation and Divorce work (Collaborative and Traditional models of Divorce) Divorce Coach, Co-Parenting Coach,Co-Parenting Plan Development, Child Specialist
Specialty areas include: ADHD, Learning Disabilities,School or Behavior problems, Socialization issues, Depression,Bipolar Disorder,Anxiety, Asperger's/ASD Anger/Stress Management,Military Issues,Parenting Issues, Communication and Relationship difficulties,Family Therapy and Marital Therapy.
If you're looking for a psychologist who is easy to speak with, has a wide variety of experience, who offers cost effective confidential treatment and who has a proven track record of helping people manage the challenges in their lives, then look no further! I have been in practice for over 25 years. My work with clients includes: *Individual Therapy (with children, adolescents and adults). *Family Therapy. *Parenting Issues .*ADHD/Learning Disabilities Testing and Treatment. *Marital/Couples Therapy (including Collaborative Marital/Couples Therapy). *Separation and Divorce work (Collaborative and Traditional models of Divorce) Divorce Coach, Co-Parenting Coach,Co-Parenting Plan Development, Child Specialist
(757) 986-6234 View (757) 986-6234
Photo of Chelsea Vicario, Licensed Professional Counselor in Northampton County, VA
Chelsea Vicario
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CSAC
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23229
I also have experience in private practice working with individuals and couples struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar, self-esteem issues and relationships concerns.
Hello! My name is Chelsea Lisk. I received a Bachelors degree in Psychoogy and a Masters degree in Counseling from Radford University. The meaning of healing and growth looks different for everyone. I am here to help guide you to being your best self and to help you figure out what your healing and growth journey will look like. I have a passion for helping people reach their full potential. I truly believe that healthy boundaries, healthy coping skills and a positive mindset can change a person’s life for the better.
I also have experience in private practice working with individuals and couples struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar, self-esteem issues and relationships concerns.
Hello! My name is Chelsea Lisk. I received a Bachelors degree in Psychoogy and a Masters degree in Counseling from Radford University. The meaning of healing and growth looks different for everyone. I am here to help guide you to being your best self and to help you figure out what your healing and growth journey will look like. I have a passion for helping people reach their full potential. I truly believe that healthy boundaries, healthy coping skills and a positive mindset can change a person’s life for the better.
(804) 322-9955 View (804) 322-9955
Virginia Support Services, PC
LPC
Verified Verified
Chester, VA 23831
Virginia Support Services is a State Licensed Mental Health Skill-Building Service program that provides behavioral and mental health training and support services to individuals with mental, behavioral, or emotional impairments in major life activities by supporting an individual's level of functioning and promoting his/her autonomy. We service individuals age 16 and up with a mental health diagnosis of Major Depressive Disorder-recurrent, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia or other psychotic disorder, a history of higher level of psychiatric care such as hospitalization, residential treatment or ICT/PACT, prescribed Rx therapy.
Virginia Support Services is a State Licensed Mental Health Skill-Building Service program that provides behavioral and mental health training and support services to individuals with mental, behavioral, or emotional impairments in major life activities by supporting an individual's level of functioning and promoting his/her autonomy. We service individuals age 16 and up with a mental health diagnosis of Major Depressive Disorder-recurrent, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia or other psychotic disorder, a history of higher level of psychiatric care such as hospitalization, residential treatment or ICT/PACT, prescribed Rx therapy.
(804) 348-0326 View (804) 348-0326
Photo of Aretha Porter, Resident in Counseling in Northampton County, VA
Aretha Porter
Resident in Counseling, MS
Verified Verified
Suffolk, VA 23434
My specialties include working with individuals who have been diagnosed with severe mental illnesses. Specifically, those who have been diagnosed with Major Depressive Disorder, Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective Disorder, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder and Generalized Anxiety Disorder. Most of my background features individual therapy. My motive is to encourage, motivate and support those who are seeking change and personal growth.
My specialties include working with individuals who have been diagnosed with severe mental illnesses. Specifically, those who have been diagnosed with Major Depressive Disorder, Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective Disorder, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder and Generalized Anxiety Disorder. Most of my background features individual therapy. My motive is to encourage, motivate and support those who are seeking change and personal growth.
(757) 210-7087 View (757) 210-7087
Photo of Andrew Lawson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Northampton County, VA
Andrew Lawson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Midlothian, VA 23112
I take a person centered approach recognizing that we are all individuals with out own strengths and needs that will need a tailored approach. I believe that the client is the driving force in therapy and that its my job to be support and guidance as we work toward achieving your stated goals. I believe that you deserve to find relief from the experiences and/or symptoms you are working through. I have extensive experience working with individuals with complex trauma/PTSD, depression, anxiety, severe mental illness, Bipolar, traumatic experiences, grief, anger, stress, familial conflict, and substance abuse.
I take a person centered approach recognizing that we are all individuals with out own strengths and needs that will need a tailored approach. I believe that the client is the driving force in therapy and that its my job to be support and guidance as we work toward achieving your stated goals. I believe that you deserve to find relief from the experiences and/or symptoms you are working through. I have extensive experience working with individuals with complex trauma/PTSD, depression, anxiety, severe mental illness, Bipolar, traumatic experiences, grief, anger, stress, familial conflict, and substance abuse.
(804) 258-6942 x2 View (804) 258-6942 x2
Photo of Erin Janovec, Licensed Professional Counselor in Northampton County, VA
Erin Janovec
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23220
Hello! My name is Erin Janovec. I am a licensed professional counselor in Virginia. My approach to therapy is a humanistic and integrated approach that considers each individual's unique needs. I am certified in EMDR and trained in TF-CBT. I have worked with clients ranging from young to old with varying diagnoses. I have experience working with individuals with substance use disorders, depression, anxiety, bipolar, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, and more.
Hello! My name is Erin Janovec. I am a licensed professional counselor in Virginia. My approach to therapy is a humanistic and integrated approach that considers each individual's unique needs. I am certified in EMDR and trained in TF-CBT. I have worked with clients ranging from young to old with varying diagnoses. I have experience working with individuals with substance use disorders, depression, anxiety, bipolar, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, and more.
(804) 373-2360 View (804) 373-2360
Photo of Carli C Papas-Pasco, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Northampton County, VA
Carli C Papas-Pasco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Williamsburg, VA 23185
I have worked with many different populations and with many different issues to include: adolescents, adults, families, couples, depression, anxiety, bipolar, life transitions, grief and loss and many more.
If you can't fly then run, if you can't run then walk, if you can't walk then crawl, but whatever you do, you have to keep moving forward and thrive. This quote by Martin Luther King is what I support my patients to achieve in life. Whatever mental health or situations that you are suffering with, you deserve the opportunity to thrive and find happiness, success, worth and meaning in your life. Let's connect and discuss how I could support what goals you are trying to achieve.
I have worked with many different populations and with many different issues to include: adolescents, adults, families, couples, depression, anxiety, bipolar, life transitions, grief and loss and many more.
If you can't fly then run, if you can't run then walk, if you can't walk then crawl, but whatever you do, you have to keep moving forward and thrive. This quote by Martin Luther King is what I support my patients to achieve in life. Whatever mental health or situations that you are suffering with, you deserve the opportunity to thrive and find happiness, success, worth and meaning in your life. Let's connect and discuss how I could support what goals you are trying to achieve.
(757) 250-4657 View (757) 250-4657
Photo of Dr. Jannie W. Robinson, EdD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Northampton County, VA
Dr. Jannie W. Robinson, EdD, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, EdD, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chesapeake, VA 23320
Helping others maximize their potential by learning how to restructure the way they think can vastly improve one's quality of life. Over the past twenty plus years I have worked with women and men from adolescence to their senior years sort through some of the many issues we all face. As an experienced therapist I have provided therapeutic counseling services to both military and civilians addressing diagnoses of Depression, Attention Deficient Disorder (ADD), Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), relationship issues and a variety of women concerns.
Helping others maximize their potential by learning how to restructure the way they think can vastly improve one's quality of life. Over the past twenty plus years I have worked with women and men from adolescence to their senior years sort through some of the many issues we all face. As an experienced therapist I have provided therapeutic counseling services to both military and civilians addressing diagnoses of Depression, Attention Deficient Disorder (ADD), Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), relationship issues and a variety of women concerns.
(757) 742-5491 View (757) 742-5491
Photo of Sofia Anna Crowe, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Northampton County, VA
Sofia Anna Crowe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23230
Areas of expertise include ADHD child/adult, parenting and family concerns, working with young adulthood issues, post-COVID, depression, anxiety, bipolar and chronic medical issues, addiction, co-occurring issues and a variety of couples and family issues.
I have been a clinician for 23 years. I have a Master's from the U of MD Social Work program. I have enjoyed wide-ranging training and employment in many settings, including supervising a county-wide suicide hotline, in an adolescent residential facility, intensive outpatient and in-home therapy. I have worked in diverse settings, such as Johns Hopkins Methadone/Suboxone program and for an AZ Native Tribal Nation. I am experienced in diverse treatment modalities, including DBT (couples and family) dual-diagnosis treatment, Imago and in Imago/communication focused couples therapy, and multi-systemic or strategic family therapy.
Areas of expertise include ADHD child/adult, parenting and family concerns, working with young adulthood issues, post-COVID, depression, anxiety, bipolar and chronic medical issues, addiction, co-occurring issues and a variety of couples and family issues.
I have been a clinician for 23 years. I have a Master's from the U of MD Social Work program. I have enjoyed wide-ranging training and employment in many settings, including supervising a county-wide suicide hotline, in an adolescent residential facility, intensive outpatient and in-home therapy. I have worked in diverse settings, such as Johns Hopkins Methadone/Suboxone program and for an AZ Native Tribal Nation. I am experienced in diverse treatment modalities, including DBT (couples and family) dual-diagnosis treatment, Imago and in Imago/communication focused couples therapy, and multi-systemic or strategic family therapy.
(804) 596-4564 View (804) 596-4564
Photo of Anjinai Hendriex, Licensed Professional Counselor in Northampton County, VA
Anjinai Hendriex
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, , LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chesapeake, VA 23320
I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, anger management, motivation, self esteem, trauma, bipolar, & depression, all being areas of my speciality.
I am licensed in Virginia with 3 years of professional work experience in therapy. I have been working in the field for 10+ years. I received a Bachelors of Science in Human Services with a Minor in Women Studies from Old Dominion University and a Master of Arts in Professional Counseling and Master of Arts Marriage and Family Therapy from Liberty University.
I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, anger management, motivation, self esteem, trauma, bipolar, & depression, all being areas of my speciality.
I am licensed in Virginia with 3 years of professional work experience in therapy. I have been working in the field for 10+ years. I received a Bachelors of Science in Human Services with a Minor in Women Studies from Old Dominion University and a Master of Arts in Professional Counseling and Master of Arts Marriage and Family Therapy from Liberty University.
(757) 909-6156 View (757) 909-6156
Photo of Robert Phillips, Licensed Professional Counselor in Northampton County, VA
Robert Phillips
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
My experiences are with adults suffering from substance use, anxiety disorders, bipolar, schizophrenia disorders, anger issues, children and adults suffering from ADHD, and autism spectrum.
My name is Robert Phillips. I hold an LPC license from the state of Virginia and am a Certified Substance Abuse Professional with CSAC - A certificate. My approach is to build a strong therapeutic relationship, stay focused on the client in the present moment without judgment, help people gain skills and tools for managing complicated situations, and encourage a spirit of openness, curiosity, and acceptance to help individuals understand they can choose to respond rationally and control behaviors
My experiences are with adults suffering from substance use, anxiety disorders, bipolar, schizophrenia disorders, anger issues, children and adults suffering from ADHD, and autism spectrum.
My name is Robert Phillips. I hold an LPC license from the state of Virginia and am a Certified Substance Abuse Professional with CSAC - A certificate. My approach is to build a strong therapeutic relationship, stay focused on the client in the present moment without judgment, help people gain skills and tools for managing complicated situations, and encourage a spirit of openness, curiosity, and acceptance to help individuals understand they can choose to respond rationally and control behaviors
(757) 993-4881 View (757) 993-4881
Photo of Shelby Pearce, Pre-Licensed Professional in Northampton County, VA
Shelby Pearce
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPC-R, QMHPA/C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chesterfield, VA 23832
Shelby Pearce is a dedicated mental health professional with 5 years of experience in community mental health for adults and adolescents. Shelby specializes in a range of challenges, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, postpartum challenges, LGBTQIA+ matters, bipolar disorder, substance use, trauma, relationship and familial challenges, grief, and work-life balance. Shelby is passionate about providing individualized therapy tailored to everyone’s unique challenges and creating an open and empathetic space.
Shelby Pearce is a dedicated mental health professional with 5 years of experience in community mental health for adults and adolescents. Shelby specializes in a range of challenges, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, postpartum challenges, LGBTQIA+ matters, bipolar disorder, substance use, trauma, relationship and familial challenges, grief, and work-life balance. Shelby is passionate about providing individualized therapy tailored to everyone’s unique challenges and creating an open and empathetic space.
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William T Burke
Psychologist, PhD, LCP
Verified Verified
Midlothian, VA 23112
William T. Burke, Ph.D. Dr. Burke received his doctoral degree from the University of Virginia in 1978. Following internship and residency training in Hartford CT and Charlottesville VA he entered private practice in Richmond in 1981. His interests include psychotherapy with children, adolescents and adults. He sees individuals , families and couples.We have a shared interest and expertise in treating individuals experiencing ADD/ADHD and the full spectrum of mood disorders including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and post-traumatic issues. We are able to offer a range of treatment options including therapy and medication
William T. Burke, Ph.D. Dr. Burke received his doctoral degree from the University of Virginia in 1978. Following internship and residency training in Hartford CT and Charlottesville VA he entered private practice in Richmond in 1981. His interests include psychotherapy with children, adolescents and adults. He sees individuals , families and couples.We have a shared interest and expertise in treating individuals experiencing ADD/ADHD and the full spectrum of mood disorders including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and post-traumatic issues. We are able to offer a range of treatment options including therapy and medication
(804) 913-2754 x101 View (804) 913-2754 x101

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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.