Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Baden, PA
Amber Doran
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Baden, PA 15005
Waitlist for new clients
Whether you’re trying to manage an increase in anxiety, work through past trauma, or figure out how to deal with life's curveballs, I am here to help. Maybe you're struggling with how to navigate school or work demands, perhaps questioning your identity and life's purpose, or wanting to find a way to be kinder to yourself. Life often has a way of holding us down, not allowing us to see clearly, and we end up being consumed by worries and doubts. This can alter our reality and we become lost to the whole picture. A picture that shows us a life full of potential, hope and kindness.
Whether you’re trying to manage an increase in anxiety, work through past trauma, or figure out how to deal with life's curveballs, I am here to help. Maybe you're struggling with how to navigate school or work demands, perhaps questioning your identity and life's purpose, or wanting to find a way to be kinder to yourself. Life often has a way of holding us down, not allowing us to see clearly, and we end up being consumed by worries and doubts. This can alter our reality and we become lost to the whole picture. A picture that shows us a life full of potential, hope and kindness.
Erica Rodriguez
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Baden, PA 15005 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Hello! I strive to create a space that meets all of your needs. I offer a wide range of therapy resulting from my diverse experience: sexuality and gender identity, substance use disorders, mood disorders, relationship difficulties, anxiety, depression, and personality disorders. I work primarily with adults and adolescents, and I provide both individual and couple’s counseling.
Hello! I strive to create a space that meets all of your needs. I offer a wide range of therapy resulting from my diverse experience: sexuality and gender identity, substance use disorders, mood disorders, relationship difficulties, anxiety, depression, and personality disorders. I work primarily with adults and adolescents, and I provide both individual and couple’s counseling.
More Therapists Nearby
Tonji Good Cooper
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, EMDR, CCPT
Verified Verified
Aliquippa, PA 15001
Waitlist for new clients
Over the past ten years I have developed and cultivated great skill in working with those impacted by and struggling with Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Conduct Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, and Anxiety Disorder.
As a therapist, I like to reach out to those who feel their life is spiraling out of control. My specialty is addressing behaviors, such as ADHD or Conduct Disorder, accepting who you are as an individual, and helping you realize you have the key to change your situation. For those who want to get their emotions under control, perhaps due to bipolar disorder or anxiety disorder, together we will work to get your life moving "straight forward."
Over the past ten years I have developed and cultivated great skill in working with those impacted by and struggling with Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Conduct Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, and Anxiety Disorder.
As a therapist, I like to reach out to those who feel their life is spiraling out of control. My specialty is addressing behaviors, such as ADHD or Conduct Disorder, accepting who you are as an individual, and helping you realize you have the key to change your situation. For those who want to get their emotions under control, perhaps due to bipolar disorder or anxiety disorder, together we will work to get your life moving "straight forward."
Michael F Dunbar
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA , LPC
Verified Verified
Wexford, PA 15090
Trained in CBT, REBT, Gestalt, Rogerian, and numerous other therapies, his clinical experience includes Divorce, Extramarital Affairs, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Addiction Issues, Codependency, OCD, Career, Marriage, and Family needs.
Michael is a Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC) and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) receiving his Masters Degree in Marriage and Family Counseling from Geneva College in Beaver Pennsylvania. Mike offers holistic counseling services for those struggling to find balance on a spiritual, emotional or cognitive level.
Trained in CBT, REBT, Gestalt, Rogerian, and numerous other therapies, his clinical experience includes Divorce, Extramarital Affairs, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Addiction Issues, Codependency, OCD, Career, Marriage, and Family needs.
Michael is a Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC) and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) receiving his Masters Degree in Marriage and Family Counseling from Geneva College in Beaver Pennsylvania. Mike offers holistic counseling services for those struggling to find balance on a spiritual, emotional or cognitive level.
Dunlap & Associates Counseling and Art Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Wexford, PA 15090
We have experience working with those who face Academic Struggles, Addictions, ADHD, Anger, Anxiety, Autism, Bipolar, Behavioral Problems, Breakups, Codependency, Communication, Dating, Divorce, Depression, Grief, Hoarding, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Parenting Issues, Relational Problems, Self-Injurious Behavior, Trauma, Work conflicts, etc.
NOW OFFERING ART THERAPY. Many people have had negative experiences with counseling, making them hesitant to seek help again. We are especially skilled at working with those who are uncomfortable with the idea of therapy. Clients have described us as “Therapists for people who don’t like therapy”. We try to understand people on an individual level & adapt our skills to meet their needs. Our goal is to provide a safe, comfortable, & nonjudgmental atmosphere. Therapy should not be simply "learning coping skills", to deal with negative feelings, it should involve working to root of the problem to facilitate long-lasting change.
We have experience working with those who face Academic Struggles, Addictions, ADHD, Anger, Anxiety, Autism, Bipolar, Behavioral Problems, Breakups, Codependency, Communication, Dating, Divorce, Depression, Grief, Hoarding, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Parenting Issues, Relational Problems, Self-Injurious Behavior, Trauma, Work conflicts, etc.
NOW OFFERING ART THERAPY. Many people have had negative experiences with counseling, making them hesitant to seek help again. We are especially skilled at working with those who are uncomfortable with the idea of therapy. Clients have described us as “Therapists for people who don’t like therapy”. We try to understand people on an individual level & adapt our skills to meet their needs. Our goal is to provide a safe, comfortable, & nonjudgmental atmosphere. Therapy should not be simply "learning coping skills", to deal with negative feelings, it should involve working to root of the problem to facilitate long-lasting change.
Diane Dolata
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wexford, PA 15090
I work best with individuals and couples who wish to address and explore issues related to emotion regulation, conflict and distress, personality difficulties and communication. In my practice, I have seen depressed and bipolar adults and people with personality issues or disorders for over 15 years.
I work best with individuals and couples who wish to address and explore issues related to emotion regulation, conflict and distress, personality difficulties and communication. In my practice, I have seen depressed and bipolar adults and people with personality issues or disorders for over 15 years.
Robert Bartek
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Wexford, PA 15090
Family means everything and when one member suffers the whole family suffers. Our marriages matter, our children matter, our families matter and so do you. I have been in the field of psychology since 1983. I specialize in marital, child, and adolescent therapies and issues related to depression, anxiety, bipolar and personality disorders. Behavioral, relationship and personality variables all contribute to wellness. I offer behavioral, cognitive and psychodynamic modalities to address these issues. Please call, no e-mails. Thank you.
Family means everything and when one member suffers the whole family suffers. Our marriages matter, our children matter, our families matter and so do you. I have been in the field of psychology since 1983. I specialize in marital, child, and adolescent therapies and issues related to depression, anxiety, bipolar and personality disorders. Behavioral, relationship and personality variables all contribute to wellness. I offer behavioral, cognitive and psychodynamic modalities to address these issues. Please call, no e-mails. Thank you.
Dr. Cydney V. Quinn
PhD, NCSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wexford, PA 15090
Dr. Cydney V. Quinn is a doctoral-level psychologist who conducts neuropsychological and psychological evaluations. Dr. Quinn has over 10 years of experience in the field supporting clients with concerns related to ADHD, specific learning disabilities, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), mood disorders (e.g., bipolar, depression, anxiety), behavioral disorders (e.g., conduct, ODD, DMDD), personality disorders (e.g., borderline, etc), trauma, and other diagnoses such as memory concerns, eating disorders, and OCD. She works with the individuals who are between 2 years and 65 years old
Dr. Cydney V. Quinn is a doctoral-level psychologist who conducts neuropsychological and psychological evaluations. Dr. Quinn has over 10 years of experience in the field supporting clients with concerns related to ADHD, specific learning disabilities, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), mood disorders (e.g., bipolar, depression, anxiety), behavioral disorders (e.g., conduct, ODD, DMDD), personality disorders (e.g., borderline, etc), trauma, and other diagnoses such as memory concerns, eating disorders, and OCD. She works with the individuals who are between 2 years and 65 years old
Luisa Bonavita
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wexford, PA 15090
I am a licensed clinical social worker with many years of practice experience. My background includes working with individuals, couples, and families affected by depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, stress, relationship conflicts, drug and alcohol problems, and other mental health issues. I have a particular interest in women's mental health issues including but not limited to, perinatal and postpartum mental health concerns.
I am a licensed clinical social worker with many years of practice experience. My background includes working with individuals, couples, and families affected by depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, stress, relationship conflicts, drug and alcohol problems, and other mental health issues. I have a particular interest in women's mental health issues including but not limited to, perinatal and postpartum mental health concerns.
Monica Dunlap
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Cranberry Township, PA 16066
I work with Addictions, ADHD, Anger, Anxiety, Bipolar, Communication, Depression, Grief, Hoarding, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Parenting Issues, Relational Issues, Breakups, Divorce, Dating, Self-Esteem, Self-Injurious Behavior, Work conflicts, etc.
Unfortunately many people have had negative experiences with counseling, making them hesitant to seek help again. I am especially skilled at working with those who are uncomfortable with the idea of therapy. A client once told me "You should be a therapist for people who do not like therapy". I try to understand people on an individual level & adapt my skills to meet their needs. My goal is to provide a safe, comfortable, & nonjudgmental atmosphere. Therapy should not be simply "learning coping skills", to deal with negative feelings, it should involve working through the root of the problem to facilitate long-lasting change.
I work with Addictions, ADHD, Anger, Anxiety, Bipolar, Communication, Depression, Grief, Hoarding, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Parenting Issues, Relational Issues, Breakups, Divorce, Dating, Self-Esteem, Self-Injurious Behavior, Work conflicts, etc.
Unfortunately many people have had negative experiences with counseling, making them hesitant to seek help again. I am especially skilled at working with those who are uncomfortable with the idea of therapy. A client once told me "You should be a therapist for people who do not like therapy". I try to understand people on an individual level & adapt my skills to meet their needs. My goal is to provide a safe, comfortable, & nonjudgmental atmosphere. Therapy should not be simply "learning coping skills", to deal with negative feelings, it should involve working through the root of the problem to facilitate long-lasting change.
David E Levit
Psychologist, PSY
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15237
I was born and raised in Pittsburgh. I earned my doctorate at Nova University School of Professional Psychology, my Master's Degree at Duquesne University, and my Bachelor's Degree from Washington and Jefferson College. I completed an APA approved internship at the VA Medical Center in Salem Virginia. My almost thirty years experience is in both inpatient and outpatient psychotherapy, and have worked in private practice since 1985. I have extensive experience working with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. I treat a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, relationship issues, anger management, ADD/ADHD/ODD, loss, behavioral management, and thought disorders.
I was born and raised in Pittsburgh. I earned my doctorate at Nova University School of Professional Psychology, my Master's Degree at Duquesne University, and my Bachelor's Degree from Washington and Jefferson College. I completed an APA approved internship at the VA Medical Center in Salem Virginia. My almost thirty years experience is in both inpatient and outpatient psychotherapy, and have worked in private practice since 1985. I have extensive experience working with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. I treat a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, relationship issues, anger management, ADD/ADHD/ODD, loss, behavioral management, and thought disorders.
Barb Marsch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Wexford, PA 15090 (Online Only)
Among my interests are helping people with Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Anxiety, Depression , and Adjustment Disorde.
I am seeing new clients. I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker with 33 years experience serving Ohio, Pennsylvania and West Virginia. I specialize in helping children, adolescents and adults dealing with Adjustment Disorders, Anxiety, ADHD, Depression, Complex Trauma, Family Conflict, Mood Disorders and Self Esteem issues. I have a passion for working with individuals who have been affected by trauma. The therapeutic session is a collaborative, nonjudgmental sphere where you can become open to share and achieve positive thoughts, aspirations, healthy patterns, and a more peaceful existence. I offer a variety of approaches
Among my interests are helping people with Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Anxiety, Depression , and Adjustment Disorde.
I am seeing new clients. I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker with 33 years experience serving Ohio, Pennsylvania and West Virginia. I specialize in helping children, adolescents and adults dealing with Adjustment Disorders, Anxiety, ADHD, Depression, Complex Trauma, Family Conflict, Mood Disorders and Self Esteem issues. I have a passion for working with individuals who have been affected by trauma. The therapeutic session is a collaborative, nonjudgmental sphere where you can become open to share and achieve positive thoughts, aspirations, healthy patterns, and a more peaceful existence. I offer a variety of approaches
New Directions Mental Health - Robinson Twp
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Wexford, PA 15090
We provide help for adults, children, teens, couples, and families struggling with: depression; bipolar disorder; anxiety; recovery from trauma; grief and loss; relationship difficulties; sexual dysfunctions; eating disorders; substance abuse; pain management; disease management; ADHD; parenting difficulties; and disruptive behavior problems.
Offering Teletherapy, Telepsychiatry and in-office visits. We are a heart-centered practice dedicated to providing highly personalized care that supports you in making lasting changes. At New Directions, we specialize in providing the help you need from start to finish including matching you with the right therapist or psychiatric provider and offering effective services. Whether you are looking for individual therapy for yourself, therapy for a child or teen, couple's therapy, family therapy and/or psychiatric services, we can assist.
We provide help for adults, children, teens, couples, and families struggling with: depression; bipolar disorder; anxiety; recovery from trauma; grief and loss; relationship difficulties; sexual dysfunctions; eating disorders; substance abuse; pain management; disease management; ADHD; parenting difficulties; and disruptive behavior problems.
Offering Teletherapy, Telepsychiatry and in-office visits. We are a heart-centered practice dedicated to providing highly personalized care that supports you in making lasting changes. At New Directions, we specialize in providing the help you need from start to finish including matching you with the right therapist or psychiatric provider and offering effective services. Whether you are looking for individual therapy for yourself, therapy for a child or teen, couple's therapy, family therapy and/or psychiatric services, we can assist.
Mandy Kushner
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, CCTP, NCC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15237
Additionally, I work with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, & relationship issues.
I strive to create a relaxed, supportive and positive environment for my clients during each counseling session, because I understand how difficult and scary it can be for clients to disclose personal information. I show my clients respect, honesty, compassion and I listen without judgement. I make sure my clients feel heard, validated, supported and gain insight. I have 22 years of experience working with children, adolescents and adults in a variety of settings which include: Outpatient, Home/Community, School-Based, Psychiatric Hospitals and Primary Care Physician Offices.
Additionally, I work with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, & relationship issues.
I strive to create a relaxed, supportive and positive environment for my clients during each counseling session, because I understand how difficult and scary it can be for clients to disclose personal information. I show my clients respect, honesty, compassion and I listen without judgement. I make sure my clients feel heard, validated, supported and gain insight. I have 22 years of experience working with children, adolescents and adults in a variety of settings which include: Outpatient, Home/Community, School-Based, Psychiatric Hospitals and Primary Care Physician Offices.
New Directions Mental Health - Wexford
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wexford, PA 15090
We provide help for adults, children, teens, couples, and families struggling with challenges including: depression; bipolar disorder; anxiety; recovery from traumatic experiences; grief and loss; relationship difficulties; sexual dysfunctions; eating disorders; substance abuse; pain management; ADHD; parenting difficulties; and disruptive behavior problems.
Offering Teletherapy, Telepsychiatry and in-office visits. We are a heart-centered practice dedicated to providing highly personalized care that supports you in making lasting changes. At New Directions, we specialize in providing the help you need from start to finish including matching you with the right therapist or psychiatric provider. Whether you are looking for individual therapy for yourself, therapy for a child or teen, couple's therapy, family therapy or psychiatric services, we look forward to providing you with compassionate care.
We provide help for adults, children, teens, couples, and families struggling with challenges including: depression; bipolar disorder; anxiety; recovery from traumatic experiences; grief and loss; relationship difficulties; sexual dysfunctions; eating disorders; substance abuse; pain management; ADHD; parenting difficulties; and disruptive behavior problems.
Offering Teletherapy, Telepsychiatry and in-office visits. We are a heart-centered practice dedicated to providing highly personalized care that supports you in making lasting changes. At New Directions, we specialize in providing the help you need from start to finish including matching you with the right therapist or psychiatric provider. Whether you are looking for individual therapy for yourself, therapy for a child or teen, couple's therapy, family therapy or psychiatric services, we look forward to providing you with compassionate care.
Heather Narayan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Sewickley, PA 15143
Waitlist for new clients
With over 10 years of clinical experience, I specialize in the treatment of mood disorders (depression, bipolar), anxiety, developmental issues (ADHD, Autism), and parenting/family struggles.
Every one of us encounters situations which challenge our ability to be healthy and happy. I believe you have the capability to make changes that will result in increased well-being, whether you experience chronic worry, sadness, dissatisfaction with your life or relationships, or have suffered trauma. I am dedicated to providing care that is personalized, supportive, nonjudgmental, and, most importantly, effective. I offer treatment focused on helping you identify your unique goals then work hand-in-hand to help you achieve them; finding ways to overcome obstacles and setbacks along the way.
With over 10 years of clinical experience, I specialize in the treatment of mood disorders (depression, bipolar), anxiety, developmental issues (ADHD, Autism), and parenting/family struggles.
Every one of us encounters situations which challenge our ability to be healthy and happy. I believe you have the capability to make changes that will result in increased well-being, whether you experience chronic worry, sadness, dissatisfaction with your life or relationships, or have suffered trauma. I am dedicated to providing care that is personalized, supportive, nonjudgmental, and, most importantly, effective. I offer treatment focused on helping you identify your unique goals then work hand-in-hand to help you achieve them; finding ways to overcome obstacles and setbacks along the way.
Nicole Metzger
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wexford, PA 15090
My name is Nicole, and I have worked in the mental health field for 15 years. As a therapist I specialize in working with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, grief/loss, trauma and more. Together we can change the way you process feelings and emotions. You can learn to have a more positive outlook on life. I will work with you to help you achieve your goals using a person-centered approach. Every person can change and grow.
My name is Nicole, and I have worked in the mental health field for 15 years. As a therapist I specialize in working with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, grief/loss, trauma and more. Together we can change the way you process feelings and emotions. You can learn to have a more positive outlook on life. I will work with you to help you achieve your goals using a person-centered approach. Every person can change and grow.
Rae Kotar
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Moon Township, PA 15108
I have conducted individual and group sessions. My work thus far has been with children, adolescents, young adults, and adults. I use a variety of therapy approaches, such a as Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) or Person Centered Therapy (PCT), in order to keep the process of therapy focused on the client and what works best with them. Additionally, I have experience working with a variety of differing mental health diagnoses, such as Autism, anxiety, depression, Bipolar disorder, adjustment issues, to name a few.
I have conducted individual and group sessions. My work thus far has been with children, adolescents, young adults, and adults. I use a variety of therapy approaches, such a as Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) or Person Centered Therapy (PCT), in order to keep the process of therapy focused on the client and what works best with them. Additionally, I have experience working with a variety of differing mental health diagnoses, such as Autism, anxiety, depression, Bipolar disorder, adjustment issues, to name a few.
Rachael Johnston
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Wexford, PA 15090
I specialize in Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD and Substance Use disorders.
Too often in this world, we are forced to continue forward and not stop to take care of ourselves. As humans, we long for connection, empathy, and purpose in life to move forward to the best of our abilities. As a therapist, my goal is to help individuals see their true potential and move forward with purpose and connections that will improve all aspects of their lives.
I specialize in Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD and Substance Use disorders.
Too often in this world, we are forced to continue forward and not stop to take care of ourselves. As humans, we long for connection, empathy, and purpose in life to move forward to the best of our abilities. As a therapist, my goal is to help individuals see their true potential and move forward with purpose and connections that will improve all aspects of their lives.
Jannette Travali
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSCP, MPH, MS, NCC/LPC, RDN/LDN, CEDS
Verified Verified
Seven Fields, PA 16046
DISORDERED EATING (Sprectur: Anorexia, Bulimia, Binge Eating, AFRID, PICA, Body Image Distortion, Orthorexia) SAFETY/IDENTITY/RELATIONSHIPS (PTSD, Trauma/Acute Abuse, Bullying, Self-Harm, Suicidality, Grief, LGBTQIA+) MOOD COMPONENTS (Anxiety, OCD, Depression, Bipolar) MEDICAL LAYERS (Food Allergies/Autoimmune/Metabolic) CORE GROUNDING (Spiritual &/or Faith).
I am a Psychotherapist, Nutrition Therapist & Exercise Physiologist. With the Client/Therapist Relationship at CORE, I provide Individualized, Integrative Care: Eating Disorders, Trauma, Mood, Relationships, Transitions -acknowledging & encouraging growth of diverse values &/or needs, I use an Eclectic Therapeutic Approach –including Person-Centered, Mindfulness, Expressive (art, music, movement, writing), Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), CBT, RO-DBT, Existential, Narrative, EMDR, Gestalt, Motivational Interviewing, Positive Psychology, Nutrition Therapy –Intuitive Eating/HAES (Health at Any Size) & Medical Nutrition Therapy.
DISORDERED EATING (Sprectur: Anorexia, Bulimia, Binge Eating, AFRID, PICA, Body Image Distortion, Orthorexia) SAFETY/IDENTITY/RELATIONSHIPS (PTSD, Trauma/Acute Abuse, Bullying, Self-Harm, Suicidality, Grief, LGBTQIA+) MOOD COMPONENTS (Anxiety, OCD, Depression, Bipolar) MEDICAL LAYERS (Food Allergies/Autoimmune/Metabolic) CORE GROUNDING (Spiritual &/or Faith).
I am a Psychotherapist, Nutrition Therapist & Exercise Physiologist. With the Client/Therapist Relationship at CORE, I provide Individualized, Integrative Care: Eating Disorders, Trauma, Mood, Relationships, Transitions -acknowledging & encouraging growth of diverse values &/or needs, I use an Eclectic Therapeutic Approach –including Person-Centered, Mindfulness, Expressive (art, music, movement, writing), Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), CBT, RO-DBT, Existential, Narrative, EMDR, Gestalt, Motivational Interviewing, Positive Psychology, Nutrition Therapy –Intuitive Eating/HAES (Health at Any Size) & Medical Nutrition Therapy.
See more therapy options for Baden
Nearby Bipolar Disorder Therapists Searches for Baden
- Aliquippa
- Beaver
- Coraopolis
- Cranberry Township
- Mars
- Monaca
- Moon Township
- Seven Fields
- Sewickley
- Warrendale
- Wexford
- Zelienople
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.