Bipolar Disorder Therapists in San Antonio, TX

Photo of Teri Johnson Psychotherapist, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA , LPC-S
Teri Johnson Psychotherapist
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA , LPC-S
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78228
Screening and treatment for Bipolar, Borderline Personality, Narcissistic Personality, Anti Social Personality, Histrionic Personality, Anxiety, Depression, Austism, and ADHD for children and adults.
Accepting new clients. With over 13 years of experience, I have a passion for helping others discover their best selves. Fears, anxieties, and difficult circumstances can leave us feeling stuck and hold us back from living the life we truly want. I join with my clients to explore barriers and overcome them to create a sense of peace and wholeness. Therapy is the most beneficial when we engage in meaningful discussion and exploration of your thoughts, feelings, beliefs, and life history. My goal with clients is to help them arrive at a place where they feel comfortable, secure, and empowered to be themselves.
Screening and treatment for Bipolar, Borderline Personality, Narcissistic Personality, Anti Social Personality, Histrionic Personality, Anxiety, Depression, Austism, and ADHD for children and adults.
Accepting new clients. With over 13 years of experience, I have a passion for helping others discover their best selves. Fears, anxieties, and difficult circumstances can leave us feeling stuck and hold us back from living the life we truly want. I join with my clients to explore barriers and overcome them to create a sense of peace and wholeness. Therapy is the most beneficial when we engage in meaningful discussion and exploration of your thoughts, feelings, beliefs, and life history. My goal with clients is to help them arrive at a place where they feel comfortable, secure, and empowered to be themselves.
(210) 920-8135 View (210) 920-8135
Photo of Clifford Cantu, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Clifford Cantu
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78247
I work with those experiencing mood disorders (such as depression, bipolar and anxiety), substance use, and trauma as well as challenges surrounding adulthood (such as partner relationships, fatherhood, parenting, blended families, and family dynamics).
I have been successful serving various populations in a variety of behavioral healthcare settings. I am skilled in the use of varying counseling and crisis management techniques and have provided individual, family, and group therapy for adults and adolescents.
I work with those experiencing mood disorders (such as depression, bipolar and anxiety), substance use, and trauma as well as challenges surrounding adulthood (such as partner relationships, fatherhood, parenting, blended families, and family dynamics).
I have been successful serving various populations in a variety of behavioral healthcare settings. I am skilled in the use of varying counseling and crisis management techniques and have provided individual, family, and group therapy for adults and adolescents.
(726) 227-2601 View (726) 227-2601
Photo of Taofeeq Awesu, Counselor, LPC
Taofeeq Awesu
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Online Only
I counsel and develop treatment plan for individuals, couples and group for the treatment of various mental health disorders like Major Depressive Disorder, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Stress and Anger management, PTSD, Grief counseling and host of others.
I'm an empathic licensed professional mental health counselor with proven ability to work independently and collaboratively to at risk diverse population. My unique and diverse backgrounds couples with my multicultural experience helping in crisis intervention, suicide risk evaluation, diagnostic evaluation, psychometric testing, case documentation and biopsychosocial assessment. I work with my population using proven and evidenced based approaches. I am trauma-informed cognitive behavioral therapist with an advanced integrated therapies tailored to meet each client strengths and abilities.
I counsel and develop treatment plan for individuals, couples and group for the treatment of various mental health disorders like Major Depressive Disorder, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Stress and Anger management, PTSD, Grief counseling and host of others.
I'm an empathic licensed professional mental health counselor with proven ability to work independently and collaboratively to at risk diverse population. My unique and diverse backgrounds couples with my multicultural experience helping in crisis intervention, suicide risk evaluation, diagnostic evaluation, psychometric testing, case documentation and biopsychosocial assessment. I work with my population using proven and evidenced based approaches. I am trauma-informed cognitive behavioral therapist with an advanced integrated therapies tailored to meet each client strengths and abilities.
(210) 981-4273 View (210) 981-4273
Photo of Mary A Dom, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Mary A Dom
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I am very experienced in working with mood disorders, especially Bipolar Disorder.
Hi! I'm happy to talk about your concerns because it can help clarify what you want and need in your life. I want to give you the expertise, knowledge, and perspective gained through working with people in therapy for over 30 years. As a licensed counselor with experience in providing preteen, teen, couples, and individual counseling, I offer you a warm and accepting environment where being non-judgmental is necessary to make you feel comfortable. Please note I work by telehealth only and my hours are Sunday through Thursday from 7am to 3pm. Please note the number on this page does not accept texts, but you can email or call.
I am very experienced in working with mood disorders, especially Bipolar Disorder.
Hi! I'm happy to talk about your concerns because it can help clarify what you want and need in your life. I want to give you the expertise, knowledge, and perspective gained through working with people in therapy for over 30 years. As a licensed counselor with experience in providing preteen, teen, couples, and individual counseling, I offer you a warm and accepting environment where being non-judgmental is necessary to make you feel comfortable. Please note I work by telehealth only and my hours are Sunday through Thursday from 7am to 3pm. Please note the number on this page does not accept texts, but you can email or call.
(210) 978-0987 View (210) 978-0987
Photo of Aareon Moore, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Aareon Moore
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Online Only
I specialize in treating bipolar disorder, depression, ADHD, anxiety, school issues, marriage issues, family issues, and women's issues.
My ideal client is someone who is struggling with anxiety, depression, or another mental health issue. They want to feel better and live a more fulfilling life. They need someone who can help them understand and cope with their issues.
I specialize in treating bipolar disorder, depression, ADHD, anxiety, school issues, marriage issues, family issues, and women's issues.
My ideal client is someone who is struggling with anxiety, depression, or another mental health issue. They want to feel better and live a more fulfilling life. They need someone who can help them understand and cope with their issues.
(469) 949-2612 View (469) 949-2612
Photo of Bradie M Harbison, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCDC
Bradie M Harbison
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Online Only
My approach is most successful with adults who may be experiencing struggles related to bipolar disorder, ADHD, depression & other mood disorders, traumas, grief, and/or interpersonal relationships.
I'm not your typical therapist. I'm real. I bring 100% of myself into my work. I am actively present and transparent in session, often reflecting personal examples that may illuminate a place where you are feeling stuck or to help you feel less isolated. I'm not easily intimidated, shaken, or shocked. I've heard it all. I can hold it all, and honestly - I truly want to.
My approach is most successful with adults who may be experiencing struggles related to bipolar disorder, ADHD, depression & other mood disorders, traumas, grief, and/or interpersonal relationships.
I'm not your typical therapist. I'm real. I bring 100% of myself into my work. I am actively present and transparent in session, often reflecting personal examples that may illuminate a place where you are feeling stuck or to help you feel less isolated. I'm not easily intimidated, shaken, or shocked. I've heard it all. I can hold it all, and honestly - I truly want to.
(737) 530-8984 View (737) 530-8984
Photo of Deborah Levi Lane, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Deborah Levi Lane
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am noted for the treatment of anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, ADHD, autism spectrum and other mood and/or behavioral issues.
I am not your typical "one-size-fits-all" therapist. Like you, I am unique. Respect and understanding of the individual and his/her needs are necessary to reach a successful treatment outcome. My work as a psychotherapist is to find what works for you. I build on the strengths of the individual. I provide personalized therapy to discerning clients who want the ultimate therapist-patient relationship, to include convenience, privacy, and real-time support . . . tailored to their lifestyle. Other benefits of this "concierge" approach: increased availability, priority appointments, and after-hours access.
I am noted for the treatment of anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, ADHD, autism spectrum and other mood and/or behavioral issues.
I am not your typical "one-size-fits-all" therapist. Like you, I am unique. Respect and understanding of the individual and his/her needs are necessary to reach a successful treatment outcome. My work as a psychotherapist is to find what works for you. I build on the strengths of the individual. I provide personalized therapy to discerning clients who want the ultimate therapist-patient relationship, to include convenience, privacy, and real-time support . . . tailored to their lifestyle. Other benefits of this "concierge" approach: increased availability, priority appointments, and after-hours access.
(210) 934-7173 View (210) 934-7173
Photo of Kerry Adamek, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Kerry Adamek
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, family conflicts, & bipolar disorder.
Professional experience 10yrs in practice Stress, Anxiety Addictions Family conflicts Bipolar disorder Depression Additional areas of focus: Antisocial Personality, Autism and Asperger Syndrome, Blended Family Issues, Codependency, Dependent Personality, Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder (DMDD), Divorce and Separation, Domestic Violence, Drug and Alco
I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, family conflicts, & bipolar disorder.
Professional experience 10yrs in practice Stress, Anxiety Addictions Family conflicts Bipolar disorder Depression Additional areas of focus: Antisocial Personality, Autism and Asperger Syndrome, Blended Family Issues, Codependency, Dependent Personality, Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder (DMDD), Divorce and Separation, Domestic Violence, Drug and Alco
(903) 342-8307 View (903) 342-8307
Photo of Marka Wight - Esperanza Counseling Services, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC, LPC-S
Esperanza Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC, LPC-S
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78217
I have experience working with ADD/ADHD, ODD, OCD, bipolar disorder, anxiety, depression, divorce recovery, spiritual issues & PTSD.
*** www.EsperanzaCounselingSA.com *** Esperanza Counseling Services offers evening & weekend sessions in English and/or Spanish. I enjoy working with people of all ages: 3 - 100. The purpose of counseling is to instill hope, provide a safe place for people to voice their feelings and concerns, while empowering them with tools to improve their lives. Everyone deserves to be treated with dignity and respect regardless of their age or circumstances. I have many years of experience working with children who have attention deficits and hyperactivity (ADHD). I worked in public schools for 8 years; 4 of which as a Parent Educator.
I have experience working with ADD/ADHD, ODD, OCD, bipolar disorder, anxiety, depression, divorce recovery, spiritual issues & PTSD.
*** www.EsperanzaCounselingSA.com *** Esperanza Counseling Services offers evening & weekend sessions in English and/or Spanish. I enjoy working with people of all ages: 3 - 100. The purpose of counseling is to instill hope, provide a safe place for people to voice their feelings and concerns, while empowering them with tools to improve their lives. Everyone deserves to be treated with dignity and respect regardless of their age or circumstances. I have many years of experience working with children who have attention deficits and hyperactivity (ADHD). I worked in public schools for 8 years; 4 of which as a Parent Educator.
(210) 598-7503 View (210) 598-7503
Photo of Kathy Keith, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Kathy Keith
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Online Only
I have experience working with adults, teenagers, and couples with Anger Management, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, Addiction, Behavioral Issues, Codependency, Coping Skills, Depression, Dual Diagnosis, Eating Disorders, Schizophrenia, Trauma, PTSD, and many more.
I work hard to create an open, nonjudgment environment where you will feel accepted and respected. I am nonjudgmental and begin therapy where you are to meet your needs. I hope that working with me is comfortable and supportive of feeling safe and respected.
I have experience working with adults, teenagers, and couples with Anger Management, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, Addiction, Behavioral Issues, Codependency, Coping Skills, Depression, Dual Diagnosis, Eating Disorders, Schizophrenia, Trauma, PTSD, and many more.
I work hard to create an open, nonjudgment environment where you will feel accepted and respected. I am nonjudgmental and begin therapy where you are to meet your needs. I hope that working with me is comfortable and supportive of feeling safe and respected.
(469) 772-5769 View (469) 772-5769
Photo of Sandra Villarreal, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Sandra Villarreal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
I have worked in the past with children and families on various mental health disorders such as Depression, Generalized Anxiety, ADHD, and Bipolar to name a few.
Besides specializing in youth, I have also specialized in helping individuals who struggle with their mental health due to being part of the LGBTQ community and accepting who they are meant to be.
I have worked in the past with children and families on various mental health disorders such as Depression, Generalized Anxiety, ADHD, and Bipolar to name a few.
Besides specializing in youth, I have also specialized in helping individuals who struggle with their mental health due to being part of the LGBTQ community and accepting who they are meant to be.
(830) 402-4181 View (830) 402-4181
Photo of Shirin Rahimi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Shirin Rahimi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78238
I specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma, grief & loss, bipolar, identity issues, addiction and substance use.
Are you currently feeling overwhelmed? Do you feel like it’s getting harder to get through your days and can no longer function like you used to? If so, just know you’re not alone. If you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, marital conflict, stress, or other stressors affecting your daily functioning I would love to help you. If you just need someone to talk to I am also here to listen. My goal is to help you reach your goal and we will delve deep into that during your first session.
I specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma, grief & loss, bipolar, identity issues, addiction and substance use.
Are you currently feeling overwhelmed? Do you feel like it’s getting harder to get through your days and can no longer function like you used to? If so, just know you’re not alone. If you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, marital conflict, stress, or other stressors affecting your daily functioning I would love to help you. If you just need someone to talk to I am also here to listen. My goal is to help you reach your goal and we will delve deep into that during your first session.
(830) 452-1780 View (830) 452-1780
Photo of Megan Luke, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Megan Luke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78230
Waitlist for new clients
Megan's specialty is in working with complex trauma, anxiety, and mood disorders such as depression and bipolar disorder.
Are you struggling with changes or challenges in life where you need more support? Would you like to manage difficult emotions more effectively? Are you ready to make a change? Megan works with trauma using EMDR therapy as well as DBT for finding balance in life. Megan has experience working with people who have attachment problems, relationship problems, and are struggling with their identity in our complex world. Megan is part of the LGBTQIA+ community and believes strongly in walking the difficult paths with people as they navigate life and mental health challenges.
Megan's specialty is in working with complex trauma, anxiety, and mood disorders such as depression and bipolar disorder.
Are you struggling with changes or challenges in life where you need more support? Would you like to manage difficult emotions more effectively? Are you ready to make a change? Megan works with trauma using EMDR therapy as well as DBT for finding balance in life. Megan has experience working with people who have attachment problems, relationship problems, and are struggling with their identity in our complex world. Megan is part of the LGBTQIA+ community and believes strongly in walking the difficult paths with people as they navigate life and mental health challenges.
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Photo of Carolyn McWilliams, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Carolyn McWilliams
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78209
Are you looking for connection and greater contentment in your life? Or perhaps you have been surviving with a serious mental health condition such as Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, or Trauma for quite some time and are looking for relief.
I have extensive experience serving people with serious mental struggles like Schizophrenia, Bipolar, and Trauma. I am trained in multiculturalism and social justice giving me the awareness to understand how these complex issues impact the wellness of my clients. I often use CBT and DBT techniques, but tailor my approach to meet the client's unique needs.
Are you looking for connection and greater contentment in your life? Or perhaps you have been surviving with a serious mental health condition such as Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, or Trauma for quite some time and are looking for relief.
I have extensive experience serving people with serious mental struggles like Schizophrenia, Bipolar, and Trauma. I am trained in multiculturalism and social justice giving me the awareness to understand how these complex issues impact the wellness of my clients. I often use CBT and DBT techniques, but tailor my approach to meet the client's unique needs.
(210) 899-7191 View (210) 899-7191
Photo of Velma Perez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, C-DBT
Velma Perez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, C-DBT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in helping individuals manage emotional challenges of trauma, bipolar, schizophrenia, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, child and adult ADHD, learning, academic, and work difficulties, self-esteem issues, chronic illness, and adjustment to change.
I have an educational background in psychology and social work. I have worked in psychiatric behavioral health inpatient and outpatient settings but now practice generalist social work theory and mindfulness in private practice.
I specialize in helping individuals manage emotional challenges of trauma, bipolar, schizophrenia, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, child and adult ADHD, learning, academic, and work difficulties, self-esteem issues, chronic illness, and adjustment to change.
I have an educational background in psychology and social work. I have worked in psychiatric behavioral health inpatient and outpatient settings but now practice generalist social work theory and mindfulness in private practice.
(210) 614-4990 View (210) 614-4990
Photo of Miranda M. Solis, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC-S
Miranda M. Solis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78229
Other specialties include sensory processing disorders, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and personality disorders.
I graduated from UTSA in 2012 with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with minors in Sociology and Philosophy and again in 2015 with a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I worked in higher education, counseling college students for nine years. While I have a passion for helping young adults navigate their mental health, I equally enjoy working with teens, couples and families. I draw from various therapeutic styles, including CBT and Relational-Cultural Theory. I enjoy taking a person-centered approach to journey alongside my clients throughout the therapeutic process.
Other specialties include sensory processing disorders, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and personality disorders.
I graduated from UTSA in 2012 with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with minors in Sociology and Philosophy and again in 2015 with a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I worked in higher education, counseling college students for nine years. While I have a passion for helping young adults navigate their mental health, I equally enjoy working with teens, couples and families. I draw from various therapeutic styles, including CBT and Relational-Cultural Theory. I enjoy taking a person-centered approach to journey alongside my clients throughout the therapeutic process.
(210) 880-2393 View (210) 880-2393
Photo of Jim Toombs, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, EMDR
Jim Toombs
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78213
I have helped others with: depression, anxiety, physical or sex abuse, PTSD, bipolar depression, dissociative disorders, phobias, chronic pain, migraines, and performance anxiety.
Emotional pain ... sucks. I can help your pain. Flashbacks, nightmares and PTSD respond very well to EMDR, as do intrusive thoughts and disturbing memories. I have been using it since 1993, so early that Francine Shapiro, the creator of EMDR, trained me herself. In addition, my basic training is Marriage and Family so I excel in relationships. But memories cause most of our problems.
I have helped others with: depression, anxiety, physical or sex abuse, PTSD, bipolar depression, dissociative disorders, phobias, chronic pain, migraines, and performance anxiety.
Emotional pain ... sucks. I can help your pain. Flashbacks, nightmares and PTSD respond very well to EMDR, as do intrusive thoughts and disturbing memories. I have been using it since 1993, so early that Francine Shapiro, the creator of EMDR, trained me herself. In addition, my basic training is Marriage and Family so I excel in relationships. But memories cause most of our problems.
(210) 417-4687 View (210) 417-4687
Photo of Heather Evans, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Heather Evans
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78229
Heather is passionate about working with individuals struggling with anger management, PTSD/trauma, and bipolar disorder.
Heather Evans, LPC, serves clients across Texas, providing compassionate care to individuals, couples, and families seeking help with a variety of mental health challenges. Heather’s therapeutic approach is highly personalized, recognizing that each person’s journey is unique. She offers a safe, empathetic space for her clients to explore their feelings, overcome challenges, and work toward personal growth. Whether addressing anxiety, depression, or relationship issues, Heather is committed to helping clients navigate life’s difficulties and develop healthier coping strategies.
Heather is passionate about working with individuals struggling with anger management, PTSD/trauma, and bipolar disorder.
Heather Evans, LPC, serves clients across Texas, providing compassionate care to individuals, couples, and families seeking help with a variety of mental health challenges. Heather’s therapeutic approach is highly personalized, recognizing that each person’s journey is unique. She offers a safe, empathetic space for her clients to explore their feelings, overcome challenges, and work toward personal growth. Whether addressing anxiety, depression, or relationship issues, Heather is committed to helping clients navigate life’s difficulties and develop healthier coping strategies.
(830) 264-6519 View (830) 264-6519
Photo of Tiffany Poinsett, Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Tiffany Poinsett
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
My areas of focus include anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, work stress, life transitions, grief, aging, substance misuse, personality disorders, and LGBTQ+ issues.
You are a unique individual. We will work together to move at the pace that works best for you while using evidence-based principles to support your goals. I hold myself to the highest ethical standards and believe in transparency, honesty, integrity, and openness. Everyone is welcomed and valued in this safe space.
My areas of focus include anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, work stress, life transitions, grief, aging, substance misuse, personality disorders, and LGBTQ+ issues.
You are a unique individual. We will work together to move at the pace that works best for you while using evidence-based principles to support your goals. I hold myself to the highest ethical standards and believe in transparency, honesty, integrity, and openness. Everyone is welcomed and valued in this safe space.
(512) 643-2448 View (512) 643-2448
Photo of Kelly Clarke, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT-S
Kelly Clarke
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78230
With a wide-ranging background, I've supported clients facing anxiety, depression, trauma, LGBTQ+ issues, and mental health challenges like Schizophrenia and Bipolar Disorder.
Hello, I'm Kelly, a compassionate and experienced therapist in TX. My focus is helping adolescents and adults navigate life's challenges. I've worked with individuals, couples, and families in residential and outpatient settings, addressing issues like depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction, and relationships. My client-centered therapy emphasizes collaboration and leveraging strengths to overcome obstacles. I value storytelling, seeing each client's journey as a unique, meaningful story. As a self-proclaimed geek, I infuse creativity and playfulness into sessions to create a safe supportive environment for exploring experiences.
With a wide-ranging background, I've supported clients facing anxiety, depression, trauma, LGBTQ+ issues, and mental health challenges like Schizophrenia and Bipolar Disorder.
Hello, I'm Kelly, a compassionate and experienced therapist in TX. My focus is helping adolescents and adults navigate life's challenges. I've worked with individuals, couples, and families in residential and outpatient settings, addressing issues like depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction, and relationships. My client-centered therapy emphasizes collaboration and leveraging strengths to overcome obstacles. I value storytelling, seeing each client's journey as a unique, meaningful story. As a self-proclaimed geek, I infuse creativity and playfulness into sessions to create a safe supportive environment for exploring experiences.
(210) 957-1668 View (210) 957-1668
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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.