Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Portland, OR
Are you feeling weighed down by depression, struggling to find hope or motivation? Whether you're new to counseling or considering re-engaging in this meaningful work, I'm here to offer you support. My approach is centered on authenticity, empathy, and creating a space of unconditional acceptance. I understand the challenges of navigating depression, and I'm dedicated to providing a holistic approach that meets you where you are. Together, we'll work at a pace that feels comfortable for you, focusing on your strengths and goals. I center warmth, compassion, and gentle directness, ensuring you feel supported every step of the way.
Are you feeling weighed down by depression, struggling to find hope or motivation? Whether you're new to counseling or considering re-engaging in this meaningful work, I'm here to offer you support. My approach is centered on authenticity, empathy, and creating a space of unconditional acceptance. I understand the challenges of navigating depression, and I'm dedicated to providing a holistic approach that meets you where you are. Together, we'll work at a pace that feels comfortable for you, focusing on your strengths and goals. I center warmth, compassion, and gentle directness, ensuring you feel supported every step of the way.
I’m interested in working with people who would like to take a holistic look at their mental health. This can include an interpersonal counseling approach as well as testing for and treating any potential underlying physiological causes of mental and emotional symptoms. I particularly enjoy working with people with mood disorders, ADHD, anxiety, and OCD.
I’m interested in working with people who would like to take a holistic look at their mental health. This can include an interpersonal counseling approach as well as testing for and treating any potential underlying physiological causes of mental and emotional symptoms. I particularly enjoy working with people with mood disorders, ADHD, anxiety, and OCD.
Only accepting OHP and cash online clients. Do you sometimes feel like your own mind is against you? Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, intrusive thoughts, existential angst, lack of motivation, or interpersonal alienation and difficulty getting your needs met? I have a whole bag of tricks that I've developed in my 15+ year career that may help; and what I've found helps most is the therapeutic relationship itself. My goal as a counselor is always to be a mental health ally, to be present and focused. To help you figure out concrete and actionable goals to help you grow more towards being the best version of yourself.
Only accepting OHP and cash online clients. Do you sometimes feel like your own mind is against you? Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, intrusive thoughts, existential angst, lack of motivation, or interpersonal alienation and difficulty getting your needs met? I have a whole bag of tricks that I've developed in my 15+ year career that may help; and what I've found helps most is the therapeutic relationship itself. My goal as a counselor is always to be a mental health ally, to be present and focused. To help you figure out concrete and actionable goals to help you grow more towards being the best version of yourself.
Why do people go to therapy? Most often, it is because we are in a crisis of some kind. Although we all find crises painful, they are also opportunities for growth. In fact growth does not occur without discomfort, maybe even pain. Without that challenge, we will not grow. But we must also have support. That’s where therapy comes in. Through support and challenge, something new emerges. We don’t just get through. We grow. We come out the other side greater than we were.
Why do people go to therapy? Most often, it is because we are in a crisis of some kind. Although we all find crises painful, they are also opportunities for growth. In fact growth does not occur without discomfort, maybe even pain. Without that challenge, we will not grow. But we must also have support. That’s where therapy comes in. Through support and challenge, something new emerges. We don’t just get through. We grow. We come out the other side greater than we were.
Mary Chakhtoura is a Clinical Social Work Associate who has been practicing since 2021. She has a BA in Humanities degree and a Master of Social Work degree. Drawing on many therapeutic approaches, the goal of Mary's work is to empower clients to become their own therapists. Mary helps clients learn about the relationships between early experiences, beliefs, thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. She also helps clients access and develop healthy relationships with all of their internal parts.
Mary Chakhtoura is a Clinical Social Work Associate who has been practicing since 2021. She has a BA in Humanities degree and a Master of Social Work degree. Drawing on many therapeutic approaches, the goal of Mary's work is to empower clients to become their own therapists. Mary helps clients learn about the relationships between early experiences, beliefs, thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. She also helps clients access and develop healthy relationships with all of their internal parts.
Lucia received her master's degree in 2003 from Pacific University's School of Professional Psychology and has been a licensed professional counselor in Oregon since 2007. Her experience includes providing counseling services in community mental health for adults and children with a variety of issues, as well as providing services in residential treatment, a family medical clinic, providing ER consultation to hospitals, and running a private practice. Lucia uses an eclectic approach to therapy; she utilizes supportive, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), EMDR, DBT and mindfulness, as well as somatic interventions.
Lucia received her master's degree in 2003 from Pacific University's School of Professional Psychology and has been a licensed professional counselor in Oregon since 2007. Her experience includes providing counseling services in community mental health for adults and children with a variety of issues, as well as providing services in residential treatment, a family medical clinic, providing ER consultation to hospitals, and running a private practice. Lucia uses an eclectic approach to therapy; she utilizes supportive, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), EMDR, DBT and mindfulness, as well as somatic interventions.
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Struggling with insomnia can affect your mood, focus, and daily functioning. Many people try apps, tips, or supplements without real improvement. There is a research-backed solution that can help you.
I am a Clinical Social Work Associate (CSWA) with experience in a variety of mental health settings. I’ve worked in residential facilities for teens, led teams providing wraparound, in-community care for adults with severe mental illness, and facilitated individual and group therapy for adults with co-occurring mental health and substance use diagnoses at the intensive outpatient level. My diverse experience allows me to tailor my approach to meet the unique needs of each individual.
I am a Clinical Social Work Associate (CSWA) with experience in a variety of mental health settings. I’ve worked in residential facilities for teens, led teams providing wraparound, in-community care for adults with severe mental illness, and facilitated individual and group therapy for adults with co-occurring mental health and substance use diagnoses at the intensive outpatient level. My diverse experience allows me to tailor my approach to meet the unique needs of each individual.
Laura Birchard, LPC – Portland Depth
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CADCI
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97209
You hold a unique process of transformation within. Yet becoming your authentic self in the world can be deeply challenging. You may feel stuck, disconnected, or weighed down by something you can’t quite name. A part of you longs for change, yet the way forward feels unclear. I work with teens and adults, helping them understand their emotions, build resilience, and reconnect with what feels true and whole. Symptoms can be a calling to deeper self-connection. Using a compassionate, creative approach, I support those facing personal growth challenges, trauma, stressful or overwhelming experiences, anxiety, and mood disorders.
You hold a unique process of transformation within. Yet becoming your authentic self in the world can be deeply challenging. You may feel stuck, disconnected, or weighed down by something you can’t quite name. A part of you longs for change, yet the way forward feels unclear. I work with teens and adults, helping them understand their emotions, build resilience, and reconnect with what feels true and whole. Symptoms can be a calling to deeper self-connection. Using a compassionate, creative approach, I support those facing personal growth challenges, trauma, stressful or overwhelming experiences, anxiety, and mood disorders.
My experience helping individuals with limited means has been informative and insightful, leading to recognition that compassion and effortful understanding is what drives positive outcomes. Growth is a developmental process that is individualized. In our work together, I commit to helping you achieve meaningful change that is unique to your situation, environment, challenges and cultural context. My intention to be helpful prioritizes validation as much as growth. I will strive to help you see what’s possible, expedition into the unexplored territories of your mind, and overcome obstacles; sticking with you every step of the way.
My experience helping individuals with limited means has been informative and insightful, leading to recognition that compassion and effortful understanding is what drives positive outcomes. Growth is a developmental process that is individualized. In our work together, I commit to helping you achieve meaningful change that is unique to your situation, environment, challenges and cultural context. My intention to be helpful prioritizes validation as much as growth. I will strive to help you see what’s possible, expedition into the unexplored territories of your mind, and overcome obstacles; sticking with you every step of the way.
I bring a wealth of experience from working in inpatient, partial hospitalization, and intensive outpatient settings, where I have supported individuals navigating a wide variety of mental health challenges. Over my career, I have developed a deep understanding of conditions such as trauma, PTSD, grief, loss, and dual diagnoses, enabling me to provide care that is both informed and compassionate. My approach is rooted in flexibility and collaboration, tailoring evidence-based techniques to fit each client’s unique circumstances and goals.
I bring a wealth of experience from working in inpatient, partial hospitalization, and intensive outpatient settings, where I have supported individuals navigating a wide variety of mental health challenges. Over my career, I have developed a deep understanding of conditions such as trauma, PTSD, grief, loss, and dual diagnoses, enabling me to provide care that is both informed and compassionate. My approach is rooted in flexibility and collaboration, tailoring evidence-based techniques to fit each client’s unique circumstances and goals.
My ideal clients are individuals who are thoughtful, self-aware, and reflective, but who carry a harsh inner critic. They tend to ruminate, overanalyze, and feel worn down by cycles of self-doubt and hopelessness, even when things “look fine” from the outside. They are often deeply introspective and emotionally attuned, yet struggle to extend that same compassion to themselves.
My ideal clients are individuals who are thoughtful, self-aware, and reflective, but who carry a harsh inner critic. They tend to ruminate, overanalyze, and feel worn down by cycles of self-doubt and hopelessness, even when things “look fine” from the outside. They are often deeply introspective and emotionally attuned, yet struggle to extend that same compassion to themselves.
Although my work is mainly influence by a Psychodynamic approach, I often draw from many other techniques in order to best be supportive. Through our work together we will explore the pervasive narratives and patterns that have led you to embody these uncomfortable and painful feelings. Through exploring past dynamics and identifying present difficulties, we will work towards increasing awareness and understanding of self.
Although my work is mainly influence by a Psychodynamic approach, I often draw from many other techniques in order to best be supportive. Through our work together we will explore the pervasive narratives and patterns that have led you to embody these uncomfortable and painful feelings. Through exploring past dynamics and identifying present difficulties, we will work towards increasing awareness and understanding of self.
Blake is deeply committed to helping clients explore the origins of their suffering, including the impact of early relationships, unresolved grief, and unspoken emotional truths. He believes that through sustained reflection, emotional honesty, and a collaborative therapeutic relationship, individuals can begin to untangle the deeper sources of their distress, foster greater self-awareness, and cultivate a more authentic, connected way of being in the world.Blake is deeply committed to helping clients explore the origins of their suffering, including the impact of early relationships, unresolved grief, and unspoken emotional truths.
Blake is deeply committed to helping clients explore the origins of their suffering, including the impact of early relationships, unresolved grief, and unspoken emotional truths. He believes that through sustained reflection, emotional honesty, and a collaborative therapeutic relationship, individuals can begin to untangle the deeper sources of their distress, foster greater self-awareness, and cultivate a more authentic, connected way of being in the world.Blake is deeply committed to helping clients explore the origins of their suffering, including the impact of early relationships, unresolved grief, and unspoken emotional truths.
Living with depression, anxiety, or Bipolar Disorder can feel like a constant battle.
I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help you identify and reframe unhelpful thought patterns affecting your emotions and behavior. My approach is collaborative and tailored to your unique needs, fostering resilience and emotional well-being. Together, we’ll build practical tools for lasting change.
Living with depression, anxiety, or Bipolar Disorder can feel like a constant battle.
I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help you identify and reframe unhelpful thought patterns affecting your emotions and behavior. My approach is collaborative and tailored to your unique needs, fostering resilience and emotional well-being. Together, we’ll build practical tools for lasting change.
I have provided individual therapy for anxiety, OCD, depression, PTSD, and bipolar disorders, BPD, and addiction.
You deserve to be heard, valued, and empowered to navigate life's challenges. You don’t have to feel overwhelmed, anxious, or alone in your struggles. My passion is helping all individuals overcome obstacles and discover new pathways toward healing and growth. I have extensive experience in community mental health and specialized treatment centers. By working together, I am confident that you can gain a deeper understanding of yourself and develop effective strategies to build a more fulfilling life.
I have provided individual therapy for anxiety, OCD, depression, PTSD, and bipolar disorders, BPD, and addiction.
You deserve to be heard, valued, and empowered to navigate life's challenges. You don’t have to feel overwhelmed, anxious, or alone in your struggles. My passion is helping all individuals overcome obstacles and discover new pathways toward healing and growth. I have extensive experience in community mental health and specialized treatment centers. By working together, I am confident that you can gain a deeper understanding of yourself and develop effective strategies to build a more fulfilling life.
Chad was born and raised in New Orleans and moved to Portland in 2012. He was educated at the University of New Orleans and received his master's degree in 2004 and has been a licensed LPC since 2009. Chad's interests outside of his practice includes video games, podcasts, sound editing, and being loved by his cats.
Chad was born and raised in New Orleans and moved to Portland in 2012. He was educated at the University of New Orleans and received his master's degree in 2004 and has been a licensed LPC since 2009. Chad's interests outside of his practice includes video games, podcasts, sound editing, and being loved by his cats.
There are multiple approaches we can take to therapy together, whether that is dealing with stressors in the present or processing difficult or traumatic events from the past. We can work to develop better insight and self-compassion, set boundaries and develop healthier relationships, and better understand and work with rather than against your unique mental health needs. I am comfortable and knowledgeable about topics relating to gender, sexuality, sex positivity, poly/non-monogamy, and intersections of identity.
I am able to take Moda, Blue Cross/Blue Shield, Aetna and PacificSource. Unfortunately I am not able to take OHP.
There are multiple approaches we can take to therapy together, whether that is dealing with stressors in the present or processing difficult or traumatic events from the past. We can work to develop better insight and self-compassion, set boundaries and develop healthier relationships, and better understand and work with rather than against your unique mental health needs. I am comfortable and knowledgeable about topics relating to gender, sexuality, sex positivity, poly/non-monogamy, and intersections of identity.
I am able to take Moda, Blue Cross/Blue Shield, Aetna and PacificSource. Unfortunately I am not able to take OHP.
Over 20 years experience working with individuals and couples from marginalized groups, especially neurodivergence in the form of bipolar disorder, autism, and/or ADHD.
In couples work, I help folks relate more effectively to feel more like "experts" on each other's needs. With individuals, I focus on support and skills for neurodivergent people who are autistic, have bipolar disorder and/or ADHD. I see a lot of late-in-life diagnosed people who are finally realizing why their life has felt like a struggle for so long.
Over 20 years experience working with individuals and couples from marginalized groups, especially neurodivergence in the form of bipolar disorder, autism, and/or ADHD.
In couples work, I help folks relate more effectively to feel more like "experts" on each other's needs. With individuals, I focus on support and skills for neurodivergent people who are autistic, have bipolar disorder and/or ADHD. I see a lot of late-in-life diagnosed people who are finally realizing why their life has felt like a struggle for so long.
I have a great passion for empowering those suffering from chronic mental health disorders such as BIPOLAR disorder.
Our life stories do not always have the fairy tale endings that we hoped for, but we are not mere puppets. We are active agents in pursuit of meaningful moments and positive outcomes. I will help you identify your strengths and collaborate with you to find solutions to challenges in your story. I strive to provide a counseling relationship in which you can feel safe, heard, and supported as you explore or process whatever you choose.
I have a great passion for empowering those suffering from chronic mental health disorders such as BIPOLAR disorder.
Our life stories do not always have the fairy tale endings that we hoped for, but we are not mere puppets. We are active agents in pursuit of meaningful moments and positive outcomes. I will help you identify your strengths and collaborate with you to find solutions to challenges in your story. I strive to provide a counseling relationship in which you can feel safe, heard, and supported as you explore or process whatever you choose.
See more therapy options for Portland
Nearby Bipolar Disorder Therapists Searches for Portland
- Aloha
- Beaverton
- Clackamas
- Fairview
- Gladstone
- Happy Valley
- King City
- Lake Oswego
- Milwaukie
- Tigard
- Tualatin
- West Linn
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.


