Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Alberta

Photo of Giovanni Di Monaco - Bipolar Wellness , MSW, RSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bipolar Wellness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T6E
Whether you’ve been recently diagnosed or living with bipolar disorder for a while, therapy is an important part of your recovery and wellness plan.
Hello. I'm Giovanni Di Monaco. I have a small practice devoted solely to people with bipolar disorder. Bipolar disorder can be a frightening and confusing diagnosis. People often wonder, "How will this affect my life?" and "What do I do now?" Let me reassure you that you can still live a full and satisfying life. Just like any other chronic illness, bipolar disorder can be managed. We will help you find ways to do this. Together we will create a personalized wellness plan to help you to recover and thrive. We can also work with you and your family to create an atmosphere of understanding and support.
Whether you’ve been recently diagnosed or living with bipolar disorder for a while, therapy is an important part of your recovery and wellness plan.
Hello. I'm Giovanni Di Monaco. I have a small practice devoted solely to people with bipolar disorder. Bipolar disorder can be a frightening and confusing diagnosis. People often wonder, "How will this affect my life?" and "What do I do now?" Let me reassure you that you can still live a full and satisfying life. Just like any other chronic illness, bipolar disorder can be managed. We will help you find ways to do this. Together we will create a personalized wellness plan to help you to recover and thrive. We can also work with you and your family to create an atmosphere of understanding and support.
(825) 254-7543 View (825) 254-7543
Photo of Richard M Alarie, MA, RPsych, Psychologist
Richard M Alarie
Psychologist, MA, RPsych
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T2M
Life can feel overwhelming at times and it's important to realize you are not alone. I am a registered psychologist who provides assessment and treatment services to adults and seniors with mild to severe mental health issues—specifically, depression, anxiety, chronic pain, self-esteem, life transition, addiction issues, bipolar and psychotic disorders, as well as posttraumatic stress among MVA survivors. My work conducting psychological assessments offers another angle in promoting self-exploration and identifying opportunities for growth. I also provide vocational counselling in the context of life and career transitions.
Life can feel overwhelming at times and it's important to realize you are not alone. I am a registered psychologist who provides assessment and treatment services to adults and seniors with mild to severe mental health issues—specifically, depression, anxiety, chronic pain, self-esteem, life transition, addiction issues, bipolar and psychotic disorders, as well as posttraumatic stress among MVA survivors. My work conducting psychological assessments offers another angle in promoting self-exploration and identifying opportunities for growth. I also provide vocational counselling in the context of life and career transitions.
(825) 254-9151 View (825) 254-9151
Photo of Greg Rennie - Bipolar Disorder And Addiction Specialist, BSW, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Greg Rennie - Bipolar Disorder And Addiction Specialist
Registered Psychotherapist, BSW, RP
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T1X
I have over 20 years working with clients who are on the bipolar disorder 'spectrum'.
Hello! I’m a Psychotherapist registered with CRPO in Ontario, with 20 years experience helping clients struggling with bipolar disorder, substance abuse/ substance use disorders, sex/ porn addiction and trauma. I’ve worked in mental health and addiction hospitals like Homewood Health Centre and I'm trained in CBT and IPSRT for bipolar disorder. I provide support for families impacted by bipolar disorder. IN-PERSON sessions are available in Toronto. To a free consultation go to 'my website" or bipolar-addiction.com. I've teamed up with Atma Cena Psychedelic Therapy and soon will offer rTMS and ketamine for addiction and depression.
I have over 20 years working with clients who are on the bipolar disorder 'spectrum'.
Hello! I’m a Psychotherapist registered with CRPO in Ontario, with 20 years experience helping clients struggling with bipolar disorder, substance abuse/ substance use disorders, sex/ porn addiction and trauma. I’ve worked in mental health and addiction hospitals like Homewood Health Centre and I'm trained in CBT and IPSRT for bipolar disorder. I provide support for families impacted by bipolar disorder. IN-PERSON sessions are available in Toronto. To a free consultation go to 'my website" or bipolar-addiction.com. I've teamed up with Atma Cena Psychedelic Therapy and soon will offer rTMS and ketamine for addiction and depression.
(289) 307-5154 View (289) 307-5154
Photo of Gregory Rennie - Bipolar Disorder Therapy, Registered Psychotherapist
Bipolar Disorder Therapy
Registered Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T1X
Greg Rennie has over 20 years experience as a Psychotherapist and specializes in treating Bipolar Disorder, trauma, abuse and addiction often co-occurring in his clients.
As a Psychotherapist and Bipolar Disorder specialist registered with CRPO in Ontario, Greg Rennie is trained in Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy. He has over 20 years experience and 40 years lived experience as two of his family members have Bipolar Disorder. Greg has worked in hospitals like Homewood Health Centre. He provides online therapy for individuals and families impacted by Bipolar Disorder and provides education and support for families impacted by bipolar. Video, phone and text therapy is available. IN-PERSON for Toronto only. For a free consultation go to "website" or call Greg at (289) 401-5610.
Greg Rennie has over 20 years experience as a Psychotherapist and specializes in treating Bipolar Disorder, trauma, abuse and addiction often co-occurring in his clients.
As a Psychotherapist and Bipolar Disorder specialist registered with CRPO in Ontario, Greg Rennie is trained in Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy. He has over 20 years experience and 40 years lived experience as two of his family members have Bipolar Disorder. Greg has worked in hospitals like Homewood Health Centre. He provides online therapy for individuals and families impacted by Bipolar Disorder and provides education and support for families impacted by bipolar. Video, phone and text therapy is available. IN-PERSON for Toronto only. For a free consultation go to "website" or call Greg at (289) 401-5610.
(289) 401-5610 View (289) 401-5610
Photo of Lisa Karasick, RPsych, MSc, BA, Psychologist
Lisa Karasick
Psychologist, RPsych, MSc, BA
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T2L  (Online Only)
depression, bipolar disorder I and II, cyclothymia, and any emotional imbalance).
Has life stress become too much? Do you feel like you are just surviving each day? You are not alone. Anxiety and mood issues can manifest in many forms, including low energy, irritability, anger, and more. Identifying and coping with the core issues can lead to better every day functioning and even gaining enjoyment out of life. How is your teen doing with not only school and peer pressure, but also the added stress of COVID-19 and isolation? Working with adolescents is a special area of interest of mine and I can help with issues such as anxiety, depression, bullying, suicidal ideation, and self-harm.
depression, bipolar disorder I and II, cyclothymia, and any emotional imbalance).
Has life stress become too much? Do you feel like you are just surviving each day? You are not alone. Anxiety and mood issues can manifest in many forms, including low energy, irritability, anger, and more. Identifying and coping with the core issues can lead to better every day functioning and even gaining enjoyment out of life. How is your teen doing with not only school and peer pressure, but also the added stress of COVID-19 and isolation? Working with adolescents is a special area of interest of mine and I can help with issues such as anxiety, depression, bullying, suicidal ideation, and self-harm.
(825) 250-3405 View (825) 250-3405
Photo of Jonathan Stephansson, BA, BSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Jonathan Stephansson
Registered Social Worker, BA, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T2B  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating anxiety, depression and mood disorders, including, OCD, PTSD, specific phobias, panic attacks, social anxiety, separation and attachment anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and borderline personality disorder.
Therapy is a unique and individual journey that requires trust, honesty, and authenticity at its core from day one. I strive for all these qualities with clients and to foster successful healing and growth that addresses your current mental health challenges and in the pursuit of long-term sustainable mental health and wellness. My clinical practice is grounded in an anti-oppressive, trauma informed, anti-racism, and social justice foundation, and I specialize in individual therapy with adolescents (ages 12-19) and adults of all ages.
I specialize in treating anxiety, depression and mood disorders, including, OCD, PTSD, specific phobias, panic attacks, social anxiety, separation and attachment anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and borderline personality disorder.
Therapy is a unique and individual journey that requires trust, honesty, and authenticity at its core from day one. I strive for all these qualities with clients and to foster successful healing and growth that addresses your current mental health challenges and in the pursuit of long-term sustainable mental health and wellness. My clinical practice is grounded in an anti-oppressive, trauma informed, anti-racism, and social justice foundation, and I specialize in individual therapy with adolescents (ages 12-19) and adults of all ages.
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Photo of Robert Kidd, MA, BA, Psychologist
Robert Kidd
Psychologist, MA, BA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Red Deer, AB T4P
Hi there! I'm Robert, a registered Psychologist dedicated to improving mental well-being. With 10+ years of experience, I specialize in therapy for teenagers and adults facing various challenges, including ADHD, addictions, anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, grief, low self-esteem, stress, and trauma. I personalize therapy for each client, offering in-person or virtual sessions. Let's work together to navigate life's challenges. With the rising prevalence of individuals being diagnosis with ADHD, I have diligently sought out specialized training and education to enhance my ability to support and guide my clients.
Hi there! I'm Robert, a registered Psychologist dedicated to improving mental well-being. With 10+ years of experience, I specialize in therapy for teenagers and adults facing various challenges, including ADHD, addictions, anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, grief, low self-esteem, stress, and trauma. I personalize therapy for each client, offering in-person or virtual sessions. Let's work together to navigate life's challenges. With the rising prevalence of individuals being diagnosis with ADHD, I have diligently sought out specialized training and education to enhance my ability to support and guide my clients.
(403) 597-3093 View (403) 597-3093
Photo of Dr. Dale Dirkse, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Dale Dirkse
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T2C
I am a PhD trained Clinical Psychologist with expertise in assessing and treating mood disorders (e.g., depression, bipolar disorder), anxiety disorders (e.g., social anxiety, generalized anxiety and worry, panic disorder), and sleep disorders (e.g., insomnia, parasomnias), amongst other issues. I also work with many clients who are having difficulty in an area of their life and need support in learning how to cope most effectively with life circumstances. I provide services to individual adults of all ages (not children or couples), in Alberta and Manitoba.
I am a PhD trained Clinical Psychologist with expertise in assessing and treating mood disorders (e.g., depression, bipolar disorder), anxiety disorders (e.g., social anxiety, generalized anxiety and worry, panic disorder), and sleep disorders (e.g., insomnia, parasomnias), amongst other issues. I also work with many clients who are having difficulty in an area of their life and need support in learning how to cope most effectively with life circumstances. I provide services to individual adults of all ages (not children or couples), in Alberta and Manitoba.
(587) 402-9638 View (587) 402-9638
Photo of Gary Hotson, PhD, Psychologist
Gary Hotson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T5K
I am a registered Clinical Psychologist in Edmonton, Alberta. Co-founder of the Edmonton Psychological Group. I have worked in both hospital and private practice settings. I work primarily with adults contending with: depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), trauma, abuse, grieving, substance abuse, and personality disorders.
I am a registered Clinical Psychologist in Edmonton, Alberta. Co-founder of the Edmonton Psychological Group. I have worked in both hospital and private practice settings. I work primarily with adults contending with: depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), trauma, abuse, grieving, substance abuse, and personality disorders.
(866) 804-4016 View (866) 804-4016
Photo of James P Bateman, MA, Psychologist
James P Bateman
Psychologist, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T5N
I have expertise working with children, adolescents, couples and families. This includes work with high risk youth, work with children who have been abused or neglected, and work with families in crisis. I have extensive Court experience, and have been appointed as a expert in the areas of counseling and clinical psychology. I have been appointed as a Parenting Expert in clinical interventions and custody evaluations. I have supported couples in developing skills to strengthen their relationships. I have experience assisting children, adolescents, and adults in dealing with anxiety, depression, Post traumatic stress disorder, Bipolar disorder, and other psychiatric diagnoses.
I have expertise working with children, adolescents, couples and families. This includes work with high risk youth, work with children who have been abused or neglected, and work with families in crisis. I have extensive Court experience, and have been appointed as a expert in the areas of counseling and clinical psychology. I have been appointed as a Parenting Expert in clinical interventions and custody evaluations. I have supported couples in developing skills to strengthen their relationships. I have experience assisting children, adolescents, and adults in dealing with anxiety, depression, Post traumatic stress disorder, Bipolar disorder, and other psychiatric diagnoses.
(780) 424-0123 x4 View (780) 424-0123 x4
Photo of Whitney Glaseman, MC, Registered Provisional Psychologist
Whitney Glaseman
Registered Provisional Psychologist, MC
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T2E
I create a supportive and collaborative space for adults, children and families to grow, and work toward their desired outcomes. I work with people with goals to reduce difficult emotions, improve relationships or careers, navigate life changes, and/or move through the grief process. This sometimes involves navigating symptoms of depression, anxiety, post traumatic stress, manic depression, or personality disorder related challenges.
I create a supportive and collaborative space for adults, children and families to grow, and work toward their desired outcomes. I work with people with goals to reduce difficult emotions, improve relationships or careers, navigate life changes, and/or move through the grief process. This sometimes involves navigating symptoms of depression, anxiety, post traumatic stress, manic depression, or personality disorder related challenges.
(587) 841-0565 View (587) 841-0565
Photo of Farrel Greenspan, MC, BA, BMOS, Psychologist
Farrel Greenspan
Psychologist, MC, BA, BMOS
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T5K
I am a registered psychologist specializing in Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, and PTSD. I previously conducted research at the University of Alberta, designing a treatment center intended to treat children of sexual abuse. I completed my Master's degree in counselling psychology at City University in Edmonton, Alberta. Prior to that I completed two Bachelor degrees in Psychology and Organizational Studies with a specialization in human resources. I aim to provide my clients with as much time and comfort as they need until they feel safe and secure.
I am a registered psychologist specializing in Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, and PTSD. I previously conducted research at the University of Alberta, designing a treatment center intended to treat children of sexual abuse. I completed my Master's degree in counselling psychology at City University in Edmonton, Alberta. Prior to that I completed two Bachelor degrees in Psychology and Organizational Studies with a specialization in human resources. I aim to provide my clients with as much time and comfort as they need until they feel safe and secure.
(780) 901-2638 View (780) 901-2638
Photo of Samantha Pekh - PsychSolutions, Inc (Alberta), MA, Psychologist
PsychSolutions, Inc (Alberta)
Psychologist, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T5M
Our team of therapists specialize in supporting clients through depression, anxiety, suicidality, grief/bereavement, bipolar disorder, relationship difficulties, sleep disruption or insomnia, work-injury recovery, or motor vehicle accident recovery.
PsychSolutions is an Edmonton based Mental Wellness Clinic, focused on supporting people to heal, grow, and thrive. Our therapists support people in moving through and beyond life difficulties and traumas experienced. Our therapists use empirically validated treatment approaches, in addition to approaches found to be clinically effective. Treatment is always fine-tuned to match specific client needs and preferences to ensure best fit occurs and clients are able to connect with strategies taught. We support clients in becoming the “who they want to be” and to move towards the “life that they are wanting.” www.psychsolutions.ca
Our team of therapists specialize in supporting clients through depression, anxiety, suicidality, grief/bereavement, bipolar disorder, relationship difficulties, sleep disruption or insomnia, work-injury recovery, or motor vehicle accident recovery.
PsychSolutions is an Edmonton based Mental Wellness Clinic, focused on supporting people to heal, grow, and thrive. Our therapists support people in moving through and beyond life difficulties and traumas experienced. Our therapists use empirically validated treatment approaches, in addition to approaches found to be clinically effective. Treatment is always fine-tuned to match specific client needs and preferences to ensure best fit occurs and clients are able to connect with strategies taught. We support clients in becoming the “who they want to be” and to move towards the “life that they are wanting.” www.psychsolutions.ca
(825) 435-1083 View (825) 435-1083
Photo of Seraphim Mork, PhD, Psychologist
Seraphim Mork
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T5M
I can diagnose Autism, ADHD, Learning Disabilities, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder PTSD, Personality Disorders and so on.
Specialized Assessments: Do you require a psychological assessment to give you insight into you or your child’s psychological functioning and to provide you with information on how you or your child could be supported? Are you struggling with issues related to trauma, depression or anxiety? Do you difficulty with learning, inattention or poor memory? I am a doctoral level psychologist and I provide neuropsychological, psychological/mental health and psychoeducational assessments to children, youth and adults.
I can diagnose Autism, ADHD, Learning Disabilities, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder PTSD, Personality Disorders and so on.
Specialized Assessments: Do you require a psychological assessment to give you insight into you or your child’s psychological functioning and to provide you with information on how you or your child could be supported? Are you struggling with issues related to trauma, depression or anxiety? Do you difficulty with learning, inattention or poor memory? I am a doctoral level psychologist and I provide neuropsychological, psychological/mental health and psychoeducational assessments to children, youth and adults.
(587) 417-6494 View (587) 417-6494
Photo of Irene Mary Haire, MC, RCAT, Art Therapist
Irene Mary Haire
Art Therapist, MC, RCAT
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T5T
I am a Registered Provisional Psychologist and a Registered Art Therapist and I work with adults, children and adolescents individually, with couples, families and facilitate groups . My experience with individuals includes working with people with mental health problems, such as depression, bipolar, anxiety, addictions, trauma, relationship problems and many others conditions that relate to family of origin developments. I'm trained at the Beck Institute and offer CBT for Depression, Anxiety & Personality Disorders. I believe in client empowerment and by using whatever strategies that you want to use with me, I will help you.
I am a Registered Provisional Psychologist and a Registered Art Therapist and I work with adults, children and adolescents individually, with couples, families and facilitate groups . My experience with individuals includes working with people with mental health problems, such as depression, bipolar, anxiety, addictions, trauma, relationship problems and many others conditions that relate to family of origin developments. I'm trained at the Beck Institute and offer CBT for Depression, Anxiety & Personality Disorders. I believe in client empowerment and by using whatever strategies that you want to use with me, I will help you.
(587) 801-5441 View (587) 801-5441
Photo of Alexis Haws, MC, Psychologist
Alexis Haws
Psychologist, MC
Verified Verified
Camrose, AB T4V  (Online Only)
Alexis works in the areas of Emotional reactivity and sensitivity, mood, nightmares, flashbacks, suicidal ideation, self-harm, interpersonal communication, attention and executive functioning, anger, impulsivity, stress management, BPD, Bipolar Disorder and ADHD.
Specializing in emotional dysregulation and trauma, Alexis is passionate about helping others. She has extensive experience working in mental health crisis work and is keen to help in those moments that follow the crisis, the time when healing takes place. Whether you are struggling with the ups and downs of emotions or feel that you have some trauma to heal, Alexis may be a great fit for you.
Alexis works in the areas of Emotional reactivity and sensitivity, mood, nightmares, flashbacks, suicidal ideation, self-harm, interpersonal communication, attention and executive functioning, anger, impulsivity, stress management, BPD, Bipolar Disorder and ADHD.
Specializing in emotional dysregulation and trauma, Alexis is passionate about helping others. She has extensive experience working in mental health crisis work and is keen to help in those moments that follow the crisis, the time when healing takes place. Whether you are struggling with the ups and downs of emotions or feel that you have some trauma to heal, Alexis may be a great fit for you.
(587) 816-2956 View (587) 816-2956
Photo of Dr. Raheleh Tarani, PhD , MSc , BA, Registered Provisional Psychologist
Dr. Raheleh Tarani
Registered Provisional Psychologist, PhD , MSc , BA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T3E
As a compassionate and experienced mental health expert, I am committed to empowering clients facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, grief and loss, OCD, trauma-related disorders such as PTSD, and neurodiversity (including autism or ADHD) in achieving their well-being and recovery objectives. With a unique set of skills and knowledge, I am able to offer effective therapeutic services in multiple languages, including Turkish, Farsi, Urdu, Hindi, Panjabi, and basic Japanese, in addition to English. I have earned Ph.D., MSc., and BA degrees in Psychology from reputable universities in the USA, India, and Iran.
As a compassionate and experienced mental health expert, I am committed to empowering clients facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, grief and loss, OCD, trauma-related disorders such as PTSD, and neurodiversity (including autism or ADHD) in achieving their well-being and recovery objectives. With a unique set of skills and knowledge, I am able to offer effective therapeutic services in multiple languages, including Turkish, Farsi, Urdu, Hindi, Panjabi, and basic Japanese, in addition to English. I have earned Ph.D., MSc., and BA degrees in Psychology from reputable universities in the USA, India, and Iran.
(825) 254-9759 View (825) 254-9759
Photo of Yamila Zimerman, BA(Adv), MA, CCC, C-DBT, Licensed Professional Counsellor
Yamila Zimerman
Licensed Professional Counsellor, BA(Adv), MA, CCC, C-DBT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T1X
I provide counselling to teens and adults (ages 12+) in English & Spanish. I work with individuals who struggle with depression, ADHD, anxiety, stress, relationship issues, trauma, BPD, bipolar, self-esteem issues, self-harm, emotion dysregulation, burnout, family conflict & chronic illness. I also work with couples who are looking to strengthen their relationship. Starting counselling and even trying to find a counsellor can be nerve-wracking, but you’re doing it! You took the first step! I have availability during the week in the daytime and evening. There is currently a waitlist for evening in-person appointments.
I provide counselling to teens and adults (ages 12+) in English & Spanish. I work with individuals who struggle with depression, ADHD, anxiety, stress, relationship issues, trauma, BPD, bipolar, self-esteem issues, self-harm, emotion dysregulation, burnout, family conflict & chronic illness. I also work with couples who are looking to strengthen their relationship. Starting counselling and even trying to find a counsellor can be nerve-wracking, but you’re doing it! You took the first step! I have availability during the week in the daytime and evening. There is currently a waitlist for evening in-person appointments.
(204) 817-6925 View (204) 817-6925
Photo of Yamila Zimerman - Mind Recovery Therapy, CCC, RCC, LCT-C, RPC, Counsellor
Mind Recovery Therapy
Counsellor, CCC, RCC, LCT-C, RPC
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T1X
Evening & weekend availability, no waitlist! Welcome to our page! We help clients with a variety of presenting issues such as trauma, anxiety, ADHD, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, BPD, bipolar, stress, burnout, self-esteem and more! Our therapists have different specializations and we aim to match clients up with a therapist that could be the best fit for them.
Evening & weekend availability, no waitlist! Welcome to our page! We help clients with a variety of presenting issues such as trauma, anxiety, ADHD, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, BPD, bipolar, stress, burnout, self-esteem and more! Our therapists have different specializations and we aim to match clients up with a therapist that could be the best fit for them.
(431) 244-1999 View (431) 244-1999
Photo of Samantha Pekh, MA, Psychologist
Samantha Pekh
Psychologist, MA
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T5M
We will work well together if you want to understand how experiences have shaped who you are, how you respond/react to life events, and if you have a deep desire to move forward with life goals...even if this means parts of you might be hesitant or unsure how to begin. Exploring the past is used to understand the "who you are" and to help guide our work towards the "who you want to become." All parts of you, even the parts that you feel ashamed about or wish would disappear, are honoured, so you can move into a sense of wholeness and being able to respond to life events rather than react in ways that don't make sense to you
We will work well together if you want to understand how experiences have shaped who you are, how you respond/react to life events, and if you have a deep desire to move forward with life goals...even if this means parts of you might be hesitant or unsure how to begin. Exploring the past is used to understand the "who you are" and to help guide our work towards the "who you want to become." All parts of you, even the parts that you feel ashamed about or wish would disappear, are honoured, so you can move into a sense of wholeness and being able to respond to life events rather than react in ways that don't make sense to you
(780) 800-4928 View (780) 800-4928
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Bipolar Disorder Counsellors

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.