Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Chatham, ON
![Photo of Andrea Wathy, MA, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/db8ed671-f4cf-43ca-922d-821e4f1ea5ff/2/320x400.jpeg)
Within ourselves, we possess all we need to conquer any battle. The key is being aware of these resources and knowing how to use them. Therapy can assist you on this journey of self-awareness. As a therapist, I will be your guide to fostering confidence in utilizing your strengths when encountering difficulties. If you are ready to focus on your overall wellness and take active steps towards solutions, please reach out and bring about the changes you are looking for.
Within ourselves, we possess all we need to conquer any battle. The key is being aware of these resources and knowing how to use them. Therapy can assist you on this journey of self-awareness. As a therapist, I will be your guide to fostering confidence in utilizing your strengths when encountering difficulties. If you are ready to focus on your overall wellness and take active steps towards solutions, please reach out and bring about the changes you are looking for.
![Photo of Becca Fryer, RSSW, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fa8f05aa-3591-486a-a767-b9b24409e447/3/320x400.jpeg)
Hi there, thank you for stopping by, it's so lovely to meet you. I know this is a vulnerable step to take, so please validate your search for a therapist. I am a Registered Psychotherapist, as well as a Registered Social Service Worker. I hold a Master's degree with Yorkville University, a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a minor in Women and Gender studies, and a diploma with Social Service Work. I work with a wide range of clients, focusing a lot of space but not limited to folks who are battling with addiction, trauma, abuse, grief, anxiety, depression, and serious mental distress.
Hi there, thank you for stopping by, it's so lovely to meet you. I know this is a vulnerable step to take, so please validate your search for a therapist. I am a Registered Psychotherapist, as well as a Registered Social Service Worker. I hold a Master's degree with Yorkville University, a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a minor in Women and Gender studies, and a diploma with Social Service Work. I work with a wide range of clients, focusing a lot of space but not limited to folks who are battling with addiction, trauma, abuse, grief, anxiety, depression, and serious mental distress.
![Photo of Rebecca Flanagan Ck Mental Health Trauma Therapy Centre, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/64363681-3498-40fe-9565-c61f1e38ca95/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rebecca Flanagan Ck Mental Health Trauma Therapy Centre
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chatham, ON N7L
Are you feeling stuck? Feeling like no matter what you do you can't seem to break habits and patterns that are affecting your personal life and relationships? I know how frustrating this can be and am here to help you to get to the root of what is making breaking those habits so difficult! I'm a dig deep therapist who helps you uncover the underlying causes and to work through them to start to truly heal. Many say they've never had a therapist who works like I do, and have come to me after years of unsuccessful attempts at change.
Are you feeling stuck? Feeling like no matter what you do you can't seem to break habits and patterns that are affecting your personal life and relationships? I know how frustrating this can be and am here to help you to get to the root of what is making breaking those habits so difficult! I'm a dig deep therapist who helps you uncover the underlying causes and to work through them to start to truly heal. Many say they've never had a therapist who works like I do, and have come to me after years of unsuccessful attempts at change.
![Photo of Jennifer L Andrews, BA, BSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/843a479d-73a3-4bde-add3-674e5c1720a4/2/320x400.jpeg)
You are not alone! I work with a variety of people from all circles of life who feel that there is more to their life than just going through the motions. Thoughts and feelings can hold people back from reaching their goals. I guide my clients through the clutter of the toxic thoughts and restricting beliefs and help them learn effective strategies to create the freedom they deserve and to lead a fulfilling, joyful life. I work with people who are tired of living their life by other people's rule and expectations. I help people who are ready to take action and create a life full of joy that they know is out there waiting for them.
You are not alone! I work with a variety of people from all circles of life who feel that there is more to their life than just going through the motions. Thoughts and feelings can hold people back from reaching their goals. I guide my clients through the clutter of the toxic thoughts and restricting beliefs and help them learn effective strategies to create the freedom they deserve and to lead a fulfilling, joyful life. I work with people who are tired of living their life by other people's rule and expectations. I help people who are ready to take action and create a life full of joy that they know is out there waiting for them.
![Photo of Nicole Visser, BA Hons, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7ab22d60-cbff-44ea-b0ac-3d9c6d1da7a7/5/320x400.jpeg)
Nicole Visser
Registered Psychotherapist, BA Hons, MA, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chatham, ON N7L (Online Only)
Welcome to therapy! Congratulations, you just took a huge and courageous step towards a happier, healthier you. There are many reasons you may have landed here. Perhaps you’re experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship conflict, burnout, trauma or a variety of overwhelming thoughts and feelings. Maybe you struggle to set healthy boundaries or communicate effectively with others. Perhaps you need extra support while navigating daily stressors or major life transitions. Together we will explore your life with curiosity and compassion.
Welcome to therapy! Congratulations, you just took a huge and courageous step towards a happier, healthier you. There are many reasons you may have landed here. Perhaps you’re experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship conflict, burnout, trauma or a variety of overwhelming thoughts and feelings. Maybe you struggle to set healthy boundaries or communicate effectively with others. Perhaps you need extra support while navigating daily stressors or major life transitions. Together we will explore your life with curiosity and compassion.
![Photo of Laura Pageau - Lambton Counselling Services, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c74a5f6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
As solution-focused therapists, our goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. Lambton Counselling Services is committed to making an inspired contribution to personal growth and encouraging health in all states: Mental, Emotional, Physical and Spiritual. Our mandate is to support clients in identifying and resolving the issues that stop them from experiencing their lives to the fullest. Lambton Counselling Services is designed to meet a wide range of needs through private practice, groupwork, workshops and professional development.
As solution-focused therapists, our goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. Lambton Counselling Services is committed to making an inspired contribution to personal growth and encouraging health in all states: Mental, Emotional, Physical and Spiritual. Our mandate is to support clients in identifying and resolving the issues that stop them from experiencing their lives to the fullest. Lambton Counselling Services is designed to meet a wide range of needs through private practice, groupwork, workshops and professional development.
![Photo of Lesley Allen, BSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7f76caab-0b5d-44a0-bcc8-4a8daf4ea3f2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Know all the theories, master all the techniques, but as you touch a human soul, be just another human soul. -C.G Jung. I have letters after my name, degrees on my wall, and years of experience; but, more importantly than any of that, I am a compassionate human-being, who will not judge and can provide you with a safe place for growth and healing. I have more than 20 years experience working with individuals and families dealing with a variety of life struggles. I hold both a Bachelor's and Master's of Social Work. I use several therapeutic modalities during therapy sessions, tailoring my approach to meet my client’s unique needs.
Know all the theories, master all the techniques, but as you touch a human soul, be just another human soul. -C.G Jung. I have letters after my name, degrees on my wall, and years of experience; but, more importantly than any of that, I am a compassionate human-being, who will not judge and can provide you with a safe place for growth and healing. I have more than 20 years experience working with individuals and families dealing with a variety of life struggles. I hold both a Bachelor's and Master's of Social Work. I use several therapeutic modalities during therapy sessions, tailoring my approach to meet my client’s unique needs.
![Photo of Ken O'Neil - P.A.C.E. Inc. - Therapy and Counselling Services, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/26664bb4-042d-4720-a107-a981a43102c7/1/320x400.jpeg)
P.A.C.E. Inc. - Therapy and Counselling Services
Registered Social Worker
Verified Verified
Chatham, ON N7L
Clients work one-on-one with a trained, certified therapist in a safe, caring, and confidential environment. P.A.C.E. Inc. is proud to offer professional Therapy services for Lambton-Kent and the surrounding area. We have offices in Wallaceburg, Chatham, Walpole Island First Nation and Sarnia. Therapy can be done in-person, by telephone or virtually.
Clients work one-on-one with a trained, certified therapist in a safe, caring, and confidential environment. P.A.C.E. Inc. is proud to offer professional Therapy services for Lambton-Kent and the surrounding area. We have offices in Wallaceburg, Chatham, Walpole Island First Nation and Sarnia. Therapy can be done in-person, by telephone or virtually.
![Photo of Laura Pageau - Lambton Counselling Services, MA, RP, NLP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f372582-3e7a-4cf5-a082-69d9d1ec457c/2/320x400.png)
Lambton Counselling Services
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, NLP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chatham, ON N7L
As solution-focused therapists, our goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. Lambton Counselling Services is committed to making an inspired contribution to personal growth and encouraging health in all states: Mental, Emotional, Physical, and Spiritual. Our mandate is to support clients in identifying and resolving the issues that stop them from experiencing their lives to the fullest. Situated in downtown Sarnia, Lambton Counselling Services is designed to meet a wide range of needs through individual and couples therapy, group work, and workshops.
As solution-focused therapists, our goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. Lambton Counselling Services is committed to making an inspired contribution to personal growth and encouraging health in all states: Mental, Emotional, Physical, and Spiritual. Our mandate is to support clients in identifying and resolving the issues that stop them from experiencing their lives to the fullest. Situated in downtown Sarnia, Lambton Counselling Services is designed to meet a wide range of needs through individual and couples therapy, group work, and workshops.
![Photo of Leonard (Len) Myers, DMin, RMFT, RP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49171d2a-50ea-4bf7-8975-a7994d5b170d/1/320x400.png)
Leonard (Len) Myers
Registered Psychotherapist, DMin, RMFT, RP
Verified Verified
Chatham, ON N7L (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
As a Registered Marriage and Family Therapist (RMFT) and a Registered Psychotherapist (RP), I am extensively prepared (and practiced) to work with individuals, couples, and families. I consider symptoms from an individual’s psychology as well as systematically and contextually from a relational perspective. I am always in awe of the effectiveness of MFT models, even with longstanding individual and family issues. I commonly work with client’s impacted by a variety of clinical issues, including mood and anxiety disorders, parenting issues, relationship problems, substance abuse, workplace issues and more.
As a Registered Marriage and Family Therapist (RMFT) and a Registered Psychotherapist (RP), I am extensively prepared (and practiced) to work with individuals, couples, and families. I consider symptoms from an individual’s psychology as well as systematically and contextually from a relational perspective. I am always in awe of the effectiveness of MFT models, even with longstanding individual and family issues. I commonly work with client’s impacted by a variety of clinical issues, including mood and anxiety disorders, parenting issues, relationship problems, substance abuse, workplace issues and more.
![Photo of Raj Singh- Certified Nurse Psychotherapist, RN, CPMHN, ADS, MEd, CPN, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f4499b07-ec2c-4b7e-bccc-6eb198230642/2/320x400.jpeg)
Raj Singh- Certified Nurse Psychotherapist
Psychiatric Nurse, RN, CPMHN, ADS, MEd, CPN
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Chatham, ON N7M
Change can be a difficult process, I am here to help you navigate through the change. I am dedicated in supporting individuals through their most difficult time using a client centred approach. I provide a safe, judgement free, comfortable atmosphere while being sensitive to your needs. While using a strength and solution focused approach together we can work towards achieving the positive changes you wish to have. If you are suffering with insomnia, I now provide CBT-I (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Insomnia). An evidenced based approach that helps to identify thoughts, feelings and behaviours contributing to insomnia.
Change can be a difficult process, I am here to help you navigate through the change. I am dedicated in supporting individuals through their most difficult time using a client centred approach. I provide a safe, judgement free, comfortable atmosphere while being sensitive to your needs. While using a strength and solution focused approach together we can work towards achieving the positive changes you wish to have. If you are suffering with insomnia, I now provide CBT-I (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Insomnia). An evidenced based approach that helps to identify thoughts, feelings and behaviours contributing to insomnia.
![Photo of Dan Rusu, MSW , RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a9176d29-bb99-426e-91b6-4ce55115cfd9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Many times we find ourselves "stuck in a rut" not knowing how to address our challenges. It looks like we are separated from our goals and we are not sure how to move forward. Seeing a psychotherapist is like the process of crossing the bridge to freedom from "here" to "where you want/need to be". In my practice, I use a holistic treatment approach consisting of: psychotherapy , lifestyle management strategies (sleep, nutrition, physical exercise), building support and at client's request spiritual/ faith-based practice(s).
Many times we find ourselves "stuck in a rut" not knowing how to address our challenges. It looks like we are separated from our goals and we are not sure how to move forward. Seeing a psychotherapist is like the process of crossing the bridge to freedom from "here" to "where you want/need to be". In my practice, I use a holistic treatment approach consisting of: psychotherapy , lifestyle management strategies (sleep, nutrition, physical exercise), building support and at client's request spiritual/ faith-based practice(s).
![Photo of Leslie Taylor, BSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a0071c68-2f6e-48d7-885b-949ee0b2487f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Do you struggle with addiction, grief, and/or ADHD, and you feel like it is holding you back or impacts your life too drastically? Do you feel frustrated, exhausted, or less than, and struggle to meet societies standards? Maybe you even feel hopeless, or like you don’t even know who you are anymore. Are you needs at the bottom of your list? Pushing away your needs and not taking the time for yourself can lead to long-term issues for your mind and body. Do you want things to change? Many people struggle with various issues yet feel alone in their perceived deficits. I believe that it should not be so hard to live a better life.
Do you struggle with addiction, grief, and/or ADHD, and you feel like it is holding you back or impacts your life too drastically? Do you feel frustrated, exhausted, or less than, and struggle to meet societies standards? Maybe you even feel hopeless, or like you don’t even know who you are anymore. Are you needs at the bottom of your list? Pushing away your needs and not taking the time for yourself can lead to long-term issues for your mind and body. Do you want things to change? Many people struggle with various issues yet feel alone in their perceived deficits. I believe that it should not be so hard to live a better life.
![Photo of Rebecca Nettleship, MA, RP, CCC, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5b02953f-ede5-4c82-b20d-d90f3e0fae3c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Rebecca Nettleship
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, CCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chatham, ON N7L
The different seasons of life come with different challenges, emotions & experiences. As we venture through the different seasons of life, we can be left with a series of questions. Maybe you are asking yourself, “How did I get here?” or “What now?”. Maybe your not sure how you feel and are overwhelmed with emotions and want to see life more clear. Whatever season of life you are going through, I want to walk beside you. As your therapist, I want you to feel a sense of safety & security when working with me & that our time together is meaningful. I believe that therapy can offer a time of healing and where hope can be found.
The different seasons of life come with different challenges, emotions & experiences. As we venture through the different seasons of life, we can be left with a series of questions. Maybe you are asking yourself, “How did I get here?” or “What now?”. Maybe your not sure how you feel and are overwhelmed with emotions and want to see life more clear. Whatever season of life you are going through, I want to walk beside you. As your therapist, I want you to feel a sense of safety & security when working with me & that our time together is meaningful. I believe that therapy can offer a time of healing and where hope can be found.
![Photo of Brian Littlewood, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5219d51f-483a-46b5-9dc9-0fc478f61031/2/320x400.jpeg)
Online Counselling & Currently Accepting Clients. Hi, my name is Brian and I am a Registered Social Worker. 18 years ago, I quit my job in a factory, and went back to school to get my Master degree in Social Work. Since then, I have been helping support adults, teens and kids who struggle with mental health, addictions, and parenting challenges. Most people know me for my humor, and my ability to get to the “nuts and bolts” of the situation. My job is to then give people the “tools,” on how handle the problem so they feel back in control again.
Online Counselling & Currently Accepting Clients. Hi, my name is Brian and I am a Registered Social Worker. 18 years ago, I quit my job in a factory, and went back to school to get my Master degree in Social Work. Since then, I have been helping support adults, teens and kids who struggle with mental health, addictions, and parenting challenges. Most people know me for my humor, and my ability to get to the “nuts and bolts” of the situation. My job is to then give people the “tools,” on how handle the problem so they feel back in control again.
![Photo of Crona Airgid, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/510a3fd5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome! Life presents with many challenges... work stress, relationship stress, health issues, parenting, caregiving of parents, juggling so many different responsibilities. It can seem overwhelming when trying to manage it all. And sometimes struggles or hurts from the past, can seem to creep into our everyday lives when we would much rather leave those hurts behind. What a relief it would be... to release those worries, to alleviate those stresses, to heal those hurts. They are heavy to carry, and as we try to keep going, they get heavier along the way. What if, you could have help, to change that...
Welcome! Life presents with many challenges... work stress, relationship stress, health issues, parenting, caregiving of parents, juggling so many different responsibilities. It can seem overwhelming when trying to manage it all. And sometimes struggles or hurts from the past, can seem to creep into our everyday lives when we would much rather leave those hurts behind. What a relief it would be... to release those worries, to alleviate those stresses, to heal those hurts. They are heavy to carry, and as we try to keep going, they get heavier along the way. What if, you could have help, to change that...
Online Therapists
![Photo of Christina Louise Leschied, MADS, BCBA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ce955351-bf8d-46ad-99bb-d4aefaec64bc/3/320x400.jpeg)
Christina Louise Leschied
Registered Psychotherapist, MADS, BCBA, RP
Verified Verified
Dorchester, ON N0L
I specialize in using Applied Behaviour Analysis, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy and Mindfulness techniques to support children, adolescents, families and individuals with developmental disabilities, disruptive behavior problems, ADHD, autism, bipolar, anxiety, depression and other mental health challenges, as well as those struggling with self-esteem and emotional regulation.
Therapy is a collaborative process in which I invest deeply into meeting the individual clients needs. I use a very systematic, goal oriented and reinforcement based method, to meet the goals collaboratively set out by the individual, couple or family, while keeping your values and beliefs at the fore front. I offer a warm and friendly approach to foster a strong rapport with clients and believe in supporting your goals while offering my personal and professional insight.
I specialize in using Applied Behaviour Analysis, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy and Mindfulness techniques to support children, adolescents, families and individuals with developmental disabilities, disruptive behavior problems, ADHD, autism, bipolar, anxiety, depression and other mental health challenges, as well as those struggling with self-esteem and emotional regulation.
Therapy is a collaborative process in which I invest deeply into meeting the individual clients needs. I use a very systematic, goal oriented and reinforcement based method, to meet the goals collaboratively set out by the individual, couple or family, while keeping your values and beliefs at the fore front. I offer a warm and friendly approach to foster a strong rapport with clients and believe in supporting your goals while offering my personal and professional insight.
![Photo of Meredith Coffin, BA, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0b100758-5f70-4180-9cd4-4d97a9031ab9/2/320x400.jpeg)
I bring over 15 years of experience as a clinical social worker and am deeply committed to aiding individuals through their intricate life challenges. My expertise encompasses working with pre-teens, teens, adults and families, focusing on relational issues, anxiety, depression, BPD, disordered eating, body dysmorphia, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and complex trauma. I strive to make a meaningful impact on your journey toward healing and growth while providing you with the tools and skills needed to maintain lasting change in your life.
I bring over 15 years of experience as a clinical social worker and am deeply committed to aiding individuals through their intricate life challenges. My expertise encompasses working with pre-teens, teens, adults and families, focusing on relational issues, anxiety, depression, BPD, disordered eating, body dysmorphia, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and complex trauma. I strive to make a meaningful impact on your journey toward healing and growth while providing you with the tools and skills needed to maintain lasting change in your life.
![Photo of Melissa Ponic, MSW, RSW, BA, TITC-CT, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f584f93b-77c0-455b-a3c2-ee099c49ba5c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Melissa Ponic
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, BA, TITC-CT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Windsor, ON N8W
My specialities include mental health disorders (anxiety, depression, borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder), trauma, addictions, stress management, self-harm, life transitions and adjustment, conflict management, and grief.
Life is full of complex problems and challenges and you do not have to navigate it alone. Through therapy we can set goals and empower positive change for you to live the happy, meaningful life you deserve. I am a Registered Social Worker with a Bachelors of Arts in Psychology and a Master’s of Social Work. I have been working primarily in the mental health and addiction’s sector for the past 10 years. I have completed a certification as a Clinical Traumatologist and completed EMDR Basic Training.
My specialities include mental health disorders (anxiety, depression, borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder), trauma, addictions, stress management, self-harm, life transitions and adjustment, conflict management, and grief.
Life is full of complex problems and challenges and you do not have to navigate it alone. Through therapy we can set goals and empower positive change for you to live the happy, meaningful life you deserve. I am a Registered Social Worker with a Bachelors of Arts in Psychology and a Master’s of Social Work. I have been working primarily in the mental health and addiction’s sector for the past 10 years. I have completed a certification as a Clinical Traumatologist and completed EMDR Basic Training.
![Photo of Nikita Yeryomenko, PhD, CPsych, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5cb21e58-f630-4f9e-a350-1e78fe38bd5c/3/320x400.jpeg)
I offer evidence-based therapies for PTSD (Written Exposure, Prolonged Exposure, Cognitive Processing), depression & bipolar disorders (CBT and IPSRT), psychosis (CBT-P), eating disorders (CBT-T), borderline personality disorder (General Psychiatric Management for BPD).
I am a clinical psychologist at Golden Sun Wellness & Counselling. Our clinic works with a range of issues, from daily worries and temporary life stressors to disabling psychiatric disorders. My training and experience in counselling and clinical psychology allows me to navigate these problems and help us find the best approach for your particular situation. I can help you figure out what might be wrong; learn how to think more clearly when it matters the most; how to get along with your feelings and emotions; and how to build new habits, keep them, and take effective action to achieve your goals and live your values.
I offer evidence-based therapies for PTSD (Written Exposure, Prolonged Exposure, Cognitive Processing), depression & bipolar disorders (CBT and IPSRT), psychosis (CBT-P), eating disorders (CBT-T), borderline personality disorder (General Psychiatric Management for BPD).
I am a clinical psychologist at Golden Sun Wellness & Counselling. Our clinic works with a range of issues, from daily worries and temporary life stressors to disabling psychiatric disorders. My training and experience in counselling and clinical psychology allows me to navigate these problems and help us find the best approach for your particular situation. I can help you figure out what might be wrong; learn how to think more clearly when it matters the most; how to get along with your feelings and emotions; and how to build new habits, keep them, and take effective action to achieve your goals and live your values.
See more therapy options for Chatham
Nearby Bipolar Disorder Counsellors Searches for Chatham
See More Bipolar Disorder CounsellorsBipolar 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.