Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Orillia, ON
Jen Nicholson, MSW RSW
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orillia, ON L3V
Counselling / Psychotherapy for Adults, Adolescents and Couples. Scope of practice includes mental health struggles (anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder); relationship Issues; addictions / substance abuse; grief and loss; trauma informed work including counselling for male and male identified survivors of sexual abuse. EMDR therapy / treatment available.
Counselling / Psychotherapy for Adults, Adolescents and Couples. Scope of practice includes mental health struggles (anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder); relationship Issues; addictions / substance abuse; grief and loss; trauma informed work including counselling for male and male identified survivors of sexual abuse. EMDR therapy / treatment available.
Starting the therapy process can be difficult. But if you are here, you are likely looking for some help in creating positive changes in your world. Congratulations on taking the first step to finding the right fitting therapist for you! Working with clients who are looking to create meaningful changes in their life is my passion. Supporting clients in reaching goals that are identified and monitored by them is also an important part of my practice. I look forward to understanding client's stories and hearing the areas in their life they are more looking forward to changing.
Starting the therapy process can be difficult. But if you are here, you are likely looking for some help in creating positive changes in your world. Congratulations on taking the first step to finding the right fitting therapist for you! Working with clients who are looking to create meaningful changes in their life is my passion. Supporting clients in reaching goals that are identified and monitored by them is also an important part of my practice. I look forward to understanding client's stories and hearing the areas in their life they are more looking forward to changing.
Many people come to therapy having felt a chronic sense of loneliness or disconnection, having had to hide or reject parts of the self in an effort to find belonging. Therapy is, for many of us, one of the only spaces where we can allow ourselves to be fully and deeply seen without judgment or expectations. It can become an important place to safely, and with guidance, express and explore the difficult emotions and experiences that have built up over time and are now feeling heavy, overwhelming, or harmful.
Many people come to therapy having felt a chronic sense of loneliness or disconnection, having had to hide or reject parts of the self in an effort to find belonging. Therapy is, for many of us, one of the only spaces where we can allow ourselves to be fully and deeply seen without judgment or expectations. It can become an important place to safely, and with guidance, express and explore the difficult emotions and experiences that have built up over time and are now feeling heavy, overwhelming, or harmful.
There are many life changes that bring people to meet with a counsellor. Whether you are seeking to manage your anger, depression, anxiety or to cope with a crisis in you and your family/marriage or build more interpersonal communication skills. I provide counselling for Individuals, marriage or couples therapy. There are many tools that can help you cope with stressful events. Together we can build a treatment plan that meets your goals. Taking the first step to call can be overwhelming, it can also be rewarding when you find that there are tools available to help with achieving your goals.
There are many life changes that bring people to meet with a counsellor. Whether you are seeking to manage your anger, depression, anxiety or to cope with a crisis in you and your family/marriage or build more interpersonal communication skills. I provide counselling for Individuals, marriage or couples therapy. There are many tools that can help you cope with stressful events. Together we can build a treatment plan that meets your goals. Taking the first step to call can be overwhelming, it can also be rewarding when you find that there are tools available to help with achieving your goals.
Glowing Hearts Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orillia, ON L3V
Glowing Hearts Psychotherapy offers clients a compassionate and non-judgemental therapeutic service. Our therapists and team are trained to support clients in their time of need. We work using a variety of frameworks which can be applied to best meet each client's needs individually. Having a team of therapists allows clients to connect with a professional that fits best for their needs. We believe that clients have the ability to create meaningful changes in their lives and we look forward to supporting those changes along side you.
Glowing Hearts Psychotherapy offers clients a compassionate and non-judgemental therapeutic service. Our therapists and team are trained to support clients in their time of need. We work using a variety of frameworks which can be applied to best meet each client's needs individually. Having a team of therapists allows clients to connect with a professional that fits best for their needs. We believe that clients have the ability to create meaningful changes in their lives and we look forward to supporting those changes along side you.
I am a highly empathetic therapist. I am passionate about helping my clients to improve their mental health and well-being. I work collaboratively with clients to create a path towards their healing. I have two separate designations I am proudly a Registered Social Worker (holds a BA in Psychology & Honors Degree in SW) and a Registered Psychotherapist with a Masters in Counselling Psychology. I also hold an advanced diploma in child and youth work. I believe that therapy can be a tool to foster, self-acceptance and compassion.
I am a highly empathetic therapist. I am passionate about helping my clients to improve their mental health and well-being. I work collaboratively with clients to create a path towards their healing. I have two separate designations I am proudly a Registered Social Worker (holds a BA in Psychology & Honors Degree in SW) and a Registered Psychotherapist with a Masters in Counselling Psychology. I also hold an advanced diploma in child and youth work. I believe that therapy can be a tool to foster, self-acceptance and compassion.
Elizabeth Margaret Van Houtte
Registered Social Worker, PhD, RSW
Verified Verified
Orillia, ON L3V (Online Only)
I have worked in the field for over 40 years. My specialty is recovery-oriented services focusing on mental health. People need the opportunity to freely discuss, and heal from, their journey. I specialized for many years in vocational rehabilitation counseling. In addition, I am a breast cancer survivor. I have experienced first hand the grief, loss, and uncertainty of a life-altering illness. Teaching has honed my skills in offering knowledge and mentorship to those working on their personal or professional life plan. A compassionate, calm and open dialogue will build strength in coping and conviction in recovery.
I have worked in the field for over 40 years. My specialty is recovery-oriented services focusing on mental health. People need the opportunity to freely discuss, and heal from, their journey. I specialized for many years in vocational rehabilitation counseling. In addition, I am a breast cancer survivor. I have experienced first hand the grief, loss, and uncertainty of a life-altering illness. Teaching has honed my skills in offering knowledge and mentorship to those working on their personal or professional life plan. A compassionate, calm and open dialogue will build strength in coping and conviction in recovery.
"The truth is that falling hurts. The dare is to keep being brave and feel your way back up." from Rising Strong by Brene Brown. Congratulations on taking a first step on your journey towards a more peaceful, happier, and grounded self. I would be honoured to join you on that journey so that you can face and overcome obstacles while creating an environment of growth and change. I strongly believe that a safe, respectful, and collaborative therapeutic relationship is the foundation of our work together.
"The truth is that falling hurts. The dare is to keep being brave and feel your way back up." from Rising Strong by Brene Brown. Congratulations on taking a first step on your journey towards a more peaceful, happier, and grounded self. I would be honoured to join you on that journey so that you can face and overcome obstacles while creating an environment of growth and change. I strongly believe that a safe, respectful, and collaborative therapeutic relationship is the foundation of our work together.
Alexandria Harris
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orillia, ON L3V
Owner & operator of, Therapy with Alex: Trauma Based Services, located in Simcoe County. I am pleased to offer services for all types of experiences for any demographic. Doing private therapy services part time, I am also an authorized child protection worker. I have experience working with issues from childhood abuse, to familial conflict, neglect and more. I have since completed an advanced certification in Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT). Through my years of practice, I now primarily work with complex traumas and personality disorders; however, this is not limited. I say to folks, nothing is off the table.
Owner & operator of, Therapy with Alex: Trauma Based Services, located in Simcoe County. I am pleased to offer services for all types of experiences for any demographic. Doing private therapy services part time, I am also an authorized child protection worker. I have experience working with issues from childhood abuse, to familial conflict, neglect and more. I have since completed an advanced certification in Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT). Through my years of practice, I now primarily work with complex traumas and personality disorders; however, this is not limited. I say to folks, nothing is off the table.
Karen Szabo
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA, MACP, RP(Q)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orillia, ON L3V
NO WAIT-LIST & In-Person appts! Anxiety/Stress/Burnout, Prenatal/Postpartum, Couples/Relationships, Depression & Trauma- You feel overwhelmed by every little thing and are experiencing a lot of stress/anxiety as a result. You feel down about yourself for letting things "slip" but just can't find the motivation to make changes. Perhaps life just feels like "too much" right now and it's starting to take a toll on your self-esteem and ability to cope with your stress. When you have a lot on your plate and just cant seem to catch a break, it can be hard to find the good in life and think clearly. This is where therapy can help!
NO WAIT-LIST & In-Person appts! Anxiety/Stress/Burnout, Prenatal/Postpartum, Couples/Relationships, Depression & Trauma- You feel overwhelmed by every little thing and are experiencing a lot of stress/anxiety as a result. You feel down about yourself for letting things "slip" but just can't find the motivation to make changes. Perhaps life just feels like "too much" right now and it's starting to take a toll on your self-esteem and ability to cope with your stress. When you have a lot on your plate and just cant seem to catch a break, it can be hard to find the good in life and think clearly. This is where therapy can help!
Inner Growth Counselling & Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orillia, ON L3V
NO-WAIT lists, LOW-COST options, IN-PERSON appts- Perhaps you're feeling down or anxious, or maybe you're unsure about the future of a relationship, or just feel that you aren't living the life you want to lead. Let's face it- life can be hard and sometimes we feel like things will never change or that we are stuck. At Inner Growth Counselling & Psychotherapy, we will help you overcome whatever mental health or personal challenges you are faced with. Our team specializes in treating ADHD, anxiety, stress, depression, self-esteem and self-identity, relationship issues, life transitions, BPD, managing difficult emotions, and trauma.
NO-WAIT lists, LOW-COST options, IN-PERSON appts- Perhaps you're feeling down or anxious, or maybe you're unsure about the future of a relationship, or just feel that you aren't living the life you want to lead. Let's face it- life can be hard and sometimes we feel like things will never change or that we are stuck. At Inner Growth Counselling & Psychotherapy, we will help you overcome whatever mental health or personal challenges you are faced with. Our team specializes in treating ADHD, anxiety, stress, depression, self-esteem and self-identity, relationship issues, life transitions, BPD, managing difficult emotions, and trauma.
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NO WAIT list, Weekend & In-Person Appts- Anxiety/Depression/Stress, Self-Esteem, Relationships, Mood/Emotions- You feel isolated and trapped by your own thoughts and feelings. Right now, reaching out to close friends or loved ones for the support you need may feel impossible. You realize that you can’t get to where you want to be in life alone and have courageously decided to look for a therapist that can help you get to where you want to be. I am honoured that your journey has brought you HERE! Starting therapy can be daunting, but rest assured, you are leading every step of the way.
NO WAIT list, Weekend & In-Person Appts- Anxiety/Depression/Stress, Self-Esteem, Relationships, Mood/Emotions- You feel isolated and trapped by your own thoughts and feelings. Right now, reaching out to close friends or loved ones for the support you need may feel impossible. You realize that you can’t get to where you want to be in life alone and have courageously decided to look for a therapist that can help you get to where you want to be. I am honoured that your journey has brought you HERE! Starting therapy can be daunting, but rest assured, you are leading every step of the way.
ADHD/ASD, Stress/Anxiety, OCD, Perinatal Issues! Perhaps you're struggling to get things done and are getting overwhelmed and procrastinate as a result. Your ADHD, anxiety, stress or depression just seem to get in the way of how you want to be living your life. It's hard to get through the days and you're starting to get down on yourself. You want to learn to overcome your mental health challenges and start feeling like yourself again. That's where therapy can help! I will help you find your strengths to overcome your hurdles while also helping you make meaningful changes and gain new perspectives in life.
ADHD/ASD, Stress/Anxiety, OCD, Perinatal Issues! Perhaps you're struggling to get things done and are getting overwhelmed and procrastinate as a result. Your ADHD, anxiety, stress or depression just seem to get in the way of how you want to be living your life. It's hard to get through the days and you're starting to get down on yourself. You want to learn to overcome your mental health challenges and start feeling like yourself again. That's where therapy can help! I will help you find your strengths to overcome your hurdles while also helping you make meaningful changes and gain new perspectives in life.
Taylor Ellis
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP(Q), MACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Orillia, ON L3V
Relationships, Stress/Anxiety/Depression, Self-Esteem, Trauma- You are feeling anxious, stressed, and overwhelmed to the point that it is starting to impact your daily life. Perhaps your relationships or work/school are starting to suffer and you are now feeling stuck, not knowing what else to do. Maybe you've tried things before with no resolve. Your emotions/mood are up & down, struggling between anxiety and depression, and might be starting to wonder if things will ever get better. Don't worry- we can help you get unstuck and back on track through counselling. I believe that you have the strength to get through this
Relationships, Stress/Anxiety/Depression, Self-Esteem, Trauma- You are feeling anxious, stressed, and overwhelmed to the point that it is starting to impact your daily life. Perhaps your relationships or work/school are starting to suffer and you are now feeling stuck, not knowing what else to do. Maybe you've tried things before with no resolve. Your emotions/mood are up & down, struggling between anxiety and depression, and might be starting to wonder if things will ever get better. Don't worry- we can help you get unstuck and back on track through counselling. I believe that you have the strength to get through this
Anxiety/Stress, ADHD, Child/Parenting, Emotion Regulation- Perhaps you are feeling overwhelmed, stressed and exhausted, and it's starting to take a toll on your parenting, work, relationships, and personal life. Your emotions are becoming harder to "control" and you feel like you're breaking down. Life is starting to feel daunting & hopeless and you're unsure how to get out of this rut, possibly turning to unhealthy coping methods. If this sounds like you, I'm here to help you overcome the emotional burnout and start making positive changes towards the person, parent, and partner you want to be.
Anxiety/Stress, ADHD, Child/Parenting, Emotion Regulation- Perhaps you are feeling overwhelmed, stressed and exhausted, and it's starting to take a toll on your parenting, work, relationships, and personal life. Your emotions are becoming harder to "control" and you feel like you're breaking down. Life is starting to feel daunting & hopeless and you're unsure how to get out of this rut, possibly turning to unhealthy coping methods. If this sounds like you, I'm here to help you overcome the emotional burnout and start making positive changes towards the person, parent, and partner you want to be.
Cheyenne Andrew
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP(Q), MACP, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orillia, ON L3V
ADHD, Stress/Anxiety, Self-Esteem, LGBTQIA+. You have a hard time "turning off" your racing mind and are feeling stressed. It might be hard for you to focus and you find yourself struggling to get things done. Perhaps you are struggling with procrastination, low motivation, or feeling in a "funk" because life is just too much sometimes. When you are stressed and overwhelmed, it can be hard to feel good about yourself and make the changes you'd like to see. If you are ready to work on yourself and start feeling better, you have come to the right place! You deserve to start feeling like YOU again.
ADHD, Stress/Anxiety, Self-Esteem, LGBTQIA+. You have a hard time "turning off" your racing mind and are feeling stressed. It might be hard for you to focus and you find yourself struggling to get things done. Perhaps you are struggling with procrastination, low motivation, or feeling in a "funk" because life is just too much sometimes. When you are stressed and overwhelmed, it can be hard to feel good about yourself and make the changes you'd like to see. If you are ready to work on yourself and start feeling better, you have come to the right place! You deserve to start feeling like YOU again.
Andra Escobar
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA, MACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orillia, ON L3V
Are you seeking to embark on a journey of healing from narcissistic abuse and the scars it leaves behind? Do life's challenges often leave you feeling isolated and misunderstood? Are you yearning to address issues of infidelity and intimacy within your relationship? Rest assured, drawing from personal experience, I understand that the path to self-love, healing, and self-discovery is a continuous one. Because of this, I aspire to help individuals overcome their challenges regarding self-worth, internal strength, and resilience and heal and grow.
Are you seeking to embark on a journey of healing from narcissistic abuse and the scars it leaves behind? Do life's challenges often leave you feeling isolated and misunderstood? Are you yearning to address issues of infidelity and intimacy within your relationship? Rest assured, drawing from personal experience, I understand that the path to self-love, healing, and self-discovery is a continuous one. Because of this, I aspire to help individuals overcome their challenges regarding self-worth, internal strength, and resilience and heal and grow.
Joanne Cantor
Registered Psychotherapist, HonBSc, SpecPsy, BEd, CRPO, OACCPP
Verified Verified
Orillia, ON L3V
I am a Registered Psychotherapist (CRPO) with expertise in Cogitive Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Career Counselling, Assessments, Education and Research. I have an extensive knowledge in Psychology, Children, Anxiety, Depression, Mindfulness, Alcohol, Addictions and Research. I have worked for many years with Senior Scientists, a highly qualified Child Psychiatrist, and other clinical professionals. I am published in several respected Scientific Journals and am available to work with children, teens, individuals, couples, families, and those who need specialized services, such as Depression and Anxiety.
I am a Registered Psychotherapist (CRPO) with expertise in Cogitive Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Career Counselling, Assessments, Education and Research. I have an extensive knowledge in Psychology, Children, Anxiety, Depression, Mindfulness, Alcohol, Addictions and Research. I have worked for many years with Senior Scientists, a highly qualified Child Psychiatrist, and other clinical professionals. I am published in several respected Scientific Journals and am available to work with children, teens, individuals, couples, families, and those who need specialized services, such as Depression and Anxiety.
Veritas is Latin for truth, which is a central value in my therapeutic approach. People have a tendency to mask what they are actually experiencing, subscribing instead to behaviour dictated by social norms. Over time, suppressed emotional suffering manifests itself in disorders such as anxiety, explosive anger, panic attacks, addiction, and depression. While many modern therapies focus on treating surface symptoms (band-aid solutions), I believe in getting to the root of the suffering to help clients gain insight so that they can truly grow, heal, and flourish.
Veritas is Latin for truth, which is a central value in my therapeutic approach. People have a tendency to mask what they are actually experiencing, subscribing instead to behaviour dictated by social norms. Over time, suppressed emotional suffering manifests itself in disorders such as anxiety, explosive anger, panic attacks, addiction, and depression. While many modern therapies focus on treating surface symptoms (band-aid solutions), I believe in getting to the root of the suffering to help clients gain insight so that they can truly grow, heal, and flourish.
ADHD, Men's Issues, Couples, Stress/Anxiety/Depression- You feel stuck, hopeless, and unsure about where to turn but just know that you want to start feeling better. Perhaps you are struggling with anxiety, overwhelm, ADHD or motivation issues and this is complicating seeking help. Or as a man, you've been feeling bad for quite a while but society tells you to "toughen up" and get through it on your own. Your self-worth has taken a hit and feel lost. Whatever it is you're struggling with, I'd be honoured to help you navigate this tough time and work towards creating a more fulfilling, empowered life.
ADHD, Men's Issues, Couples, Stress/Anxiety/Depression- You feel stuck, hopeless, and unsure about where to turn but just know that you want to start feeling better. Perhaps you are struggling with anxiety, overwhelm, ADHD or motivation issues and this is complicating seeking help. Or as a man, you've been feeling bad for quite a while but society tells you to "toughen up" and get through it on your own. Your self-worth has taken a hit and feel lost. Whatever it is you're struggling with, I'd be honoured to help you navigate this tough time and work towards creating a more fulfilling, empowered life.
Michelle Harris & Associates
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, TITC-CT, CTP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orillia, ON L3V
Providing in-person sessions in Barrie and virtually to all Ontario residents. We are a team made up of Registered Social Workers (MSW) who specialize in providing psychotherapy to children (7+), teens (13+), young adults and individuals along with offering parent coaching and consultation. Using evidenced based practices we help you find answers for change for you, for your child or for your family. Working together we can build on existing strengths and skills to make positive life changes. Each approach will be tailored to you, your child or your family's needs and designed with your goal in mind.
Providing in-person sessions in Barrie and virtually to all Ontario residents. We are a team made up of Registered Social Workers (MSW) who specialize in providing psychotherapy to children (7+), teens (13+), young adults and individuals along with offering parent coaching and consultation. Using evidenced based practices we help you find answers for change for you, for your child or for your family. Working together we can build on existing strengths and skills to make positive life changes. Each approach will be tailored to you, your child or your family's needs and designed with your goal in mind.
I am a Registered Psychotherapist and have been treating clients both individually and in groups since 2007. My primary focus has been working with complex populations with both mental health and substance use concerns. I have extensive training and experience in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Skills Training, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), treating adult survivors of trauma / PTSD, Core Mindfulness Skills as well as in a variety of other best practice, evidence based treatments. I provide treatment in a professional, confidential and comfortable environment.
I am a Registered Psychotherapist and have been treating clients both individually and in groups since 2007. My primary focus has been working with complex populations with both mental health and substance use concerns. I have extensive training and experience in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Skills Training, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), treating adult survivors of trauma / PTSD, Core Mindfulness Skills as well as in a variety of other best practice, evidence based treatments. I provide treatment in a professional, confidential and comfortable environment.
Are life struggles causing you unhappiness? It can get better. We are a group of highly trained psychotherapists, social workers and mediators. Many with over 25 years of experience in the field. Hundreds of individuals, couples, families, children and adolescents have benefited from our services. At Family TLC we truly believe in you and that you are bigger than the concern. With our diversely experienced team we are confident that a potential client will find someone best suited to their concerns that will help them make positive changes in their life.
Are life struggles causing you unhappiness? It can get better. We are a group of highly trained psychotherapists, social workers and mediators. Many with over 25 years of experience in the field. Hundreds of individuals, couples, families, children and adolescents have benefited from our services. At Family TLC we truly believe in you and that you are bigger than the concern. With our diversely experienced team we are confident that a potential client will find someone best suited to their concerns that will help them make positive changes in their life.
Carole M. Walker
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, Hon, Psych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orillia, ON L3V
Need Help? I specialize in RELATIONSHIPS, COUPLE & SEX ISSUES, TRAUMA, PTSD, HYPNOTHERAPY, GRIEF, and LIFE PURPOSE issues. I work with individuals, couples, and groups. I can offer you sound therapeutic support in a comfortable and peaceful setting. My approach is non-judgement, client-centered, practical and results oriented. Together we achieve your desired goals!
Need Help? I specialize in RELATIONSHIPS, COUPLE & SEX ISSUES, TRAUMA, PTSD, HYPNOTHERAPY, GRIEF, and LIFE PURPOSE issues. I work with individuals, couples, and groups. I can offer you sound therapeutic support in a comfortable and peaceful setting. My approach is non-judgement, client-centered, practical and results oriented. Together we achieve your desired goals!
Restorative Trauma Practice
Registered Social Worker, MSW/RSW, EMDR, SP
Verified Verified
Orillia, ON L3V
As a social worker/psychotherapist, I am known for my integrity, compassion, and warmth. I have 14 years of extensive clinical practice supporting individuals who have endured past and present traumatic and hurtful life experiences. I guide individuals out of painful emotions, thoughts, and somatic reactions by creatively combining therapies and techniques like EMDR, sensorimotor psychotherapy, brainspotting, deep brain reorienting, and other interventions that heal distressing cognitive, emotional, and behavioural patterns.
As a social worker/psychotherapist, I am known for my integrity, compassion, and warmth. I have 14 years of extensive clinical practice supporting individuals who have endured past and present traumatic and hurtful life experiences. I guide individuals out of painful emotions, thoughts, and somatic reactions by creatively combining therapies and techniques like EMDR, sensorimotor psychotherapy, brainspotting, deep brain reorienting, and other interventions that heal distressing cognitive, emotional, and behavioural patterns.
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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.