Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Denver, CO

Photo of Christine Lekas, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christine Lekas
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80202  (Online Only)
I work with people who are struggling with bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, self esteem, mood regulation, relationship issues, and communication issues in a collaborative and compassionate environment. In this supportive space you can learn how to navigate the roadblocks that life has presented you. My goal is to help you build the life you want to live by building awareness of yourself, breaking unwanted cycles, and teaching you how to to use coping skills to improve your quality of life. We are all capable of change, and my job is to help guide you through this process of growth and healing.
I work with people who are struggling with bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, self esteem, mood regulation, relationship issues, and communication issues in a collaborative and compassionate environment. In this supportive space you can learn how to navigate the roadblocks that life has presented you. My goal is to help you build the life you want to live by building awareness of yourself, breaking unwanted cycles, and teaching you how to to use coping skills to improve your quality of life. We are all capable of change, and my job is to help guide you through this process of growth and healing.
(720) 619-8275 View (720) 619-8275
Photo of Brysen Bocchino, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brysen Bocchino
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80218  (Online Only)
My areas of specialty include suicidality/crisis counseling, mood disorders (bipolar, depression, etc.
I believe in a holistic approach to therapy, and I do my best to ensure that treatment is tailored specifically to each client. I do not follow a “one-size-fits-all” approach. As a therapist, I emphasize the therapeutic relationship between the client and therapist, as I think that this the foundation and key to successful therapy.
My areas of specialty include suicidality/crisis counseling, mood disorders (bipolar, depression, etc.
I believe in a holistic approach to therapy, and I do my best to ensure that treatment is tailored specifically to each client. I do not follow a “one-size-fits-all” approach. As a therapist, I emphasize the therapeutic relationship between the client and therapist, as I think that this the foundation and key to successful therapy.
(303) 625-6247 View (303) 625-6247
Photo of Andrea M Risi, LPC, MGCP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Andrea M Risi
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MGCP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80206
I specialize in working with chronic medical conditions, Asperger's Disorder/ASD, and Bipolar Disorder.
Are you feeling stuck? I help people move forward! I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor and I work with adults to restore emotional wellness. If you are struggling with chronic illness, sports performance, social skills problems, mood disorders, or anxiety, we can work together to find a balance that can help you live a more satisfying and meaningful life.
I specialize in working with chronic medical conditions, Asperger's Disorder/ASD, and Bipolar Disorder.
Are you feeling stuck? I help people move forward! I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor and I work with adults to restore emotional wellness. If you are struggling with chronic illness, sports performance, social skills problems, mood disorders, or anxiety, we can work together to find a balance that can help you live a more satisfying and meaningful life.
(720) 425-5334 View (720) 425-5334
Photo of William Flug, MSW, SWC, Pre-Licensed Professional
William Flug
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, SWC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80222
I primarily specialize in mood disorders such as Major Depressive Disorder and Bipolar Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Substance Abuse, and Family issues.
I have worked in the clinical realm since 2018 with experience in addiction treatment, high-risk mental health case management, and both group and individual therapy. My clinical approach is reliant on empathy and intuition. Creating a space for my clients to feel heard and understood rather than critiqued and corrected is essential when establishing a therapeutic alliance. Combining these principles with my clinical experience and education while maintaining an inclusive and culturally sensitive approach to my work has allowed success in my practice and continued care with the people I serve.
I primarily specialize in mood disorders such as Major Depressive Disorder and Bipolar Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Substance Abuse, and Family issues.
I have worked in the clinical realm since 2018 with experience in addiction treatment, high-risk mental health case management, and both group and individual therapy. My clinical approach is reliant on empathy and intuition. Creating a space for my clients to feel heard and understood rather than critiqued and corrected is essential when establishing a therapeutic alliance. Combining these principles with my clinical experience and education while maintaining an inclusive and culturally sensitive approach to my work has allowed success in my practice and continued care with the people I serve.
(720) 954-3417 View (720) 954-3417
Photo of Kim Stromgren, MA, LPC
Kim Stromgren
MA, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80222
My experience includes self-esteem, Bipolar, depression & anxiety, grief & loss, transitions, spirituality, chronic pain, & identity.
Are you feeling over-whelmed, worried, stressed, confused, or conflicted within relationships to the point where it feels tough to manage everything by yourself? Are these feelings impacting your daily life, possibly causing you to struggle with how you see yourself and your choices? Oftentimes life's abundance of challenges and opportunities can interfere with our vision of ourselves and our lives. I'll work with you to develop a therapeutic plan to reach your goals and ultimately feel better and more confident now and in the future no matter what obstacles or distractions may arise.
My experience includes self-esteem, Bipolar, depression & anxiety, grief & loss, transitions, spirituality, chronic pain, & identity.
Are you feeling over-whelmed, worried, stressed, confused, or conflicted within relationships to the point where it feels tough to manage everything by yourself? Are these feelings impacting your daily life, possibly causing you to struggle with how you see yourself and your choices? Oftentimes life's abundance of challenges and opportunities can interfere with our vision of ourselves and our lives. I'll work with you to develop a therapeutic plan to reach your goals and ultimately feel better and more confident now and in the future no matter what obstacles or distractions may arise.
(720) 204-5976 View (720) 204-5976
Photo of Jennifer Kate Ferris, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Kate Ferris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80218
My speciality is working with both adults and adolescents with depression, anxiety, bipolar, other mood disorders as well as ADHD.
I have worked with adults of all ages and adolescents in a variety of settings using multiple treatment modalities. I traditionally use psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to support clients in gaining skills and meeting their desired outcome goals. Utilizing individual, couples, family, and play therapy I strive to alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety and a myriad of disorders, diseases and phobias. My primary objective while working with any client is to create a safe environment to process their journey, and for people to be the center of initiative in their own lives.
My speciality is working with both adults and adolescents with depression, anxiety, bipolar, other mood disorders as well as ADHD.
I have worked with adults of all ages and adolescents in a variety of settings using multiple treatment modalities. I traditionally use psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to support clients in gaining skills and meeting their desired outcome goals. Utilizing individual, couples, family, and play therapy I strive to alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety and a myriad of disorders, diseases and phobias. My primary objective while working with any client is to create a safe environment to process their journey, and for people to be the center of initiative in their own lives.
(720) 728-0589 View (720) 728-0589
Photo of Ashanti Gosha, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ashanti Gosha
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80220
I have experience with depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders, bipolar disorder and more.
Hi, my name is Ashanti Gosha. Therapy can be a hard first step for many people. My style of therapy is a collaborative approach where you can be authentic in a safe space free of shame and judgement. We will work together with you as the driver to help navigate any mental health challenges with me offering insight and interventions that will help you along the way. I have an integrative approach to therapy which means I work with everyone to assess their goals and needs of therapy, and I combine skills from various treatment modalities that best fits client’s need.
I have experience with depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders, bipolar disorder and more.
Hi, my name is Ashanti Gosha. Therapy can be a hard first step for many people. My style of therapy is a collaborative approach where you can be authentic in a safe space free of shame and judgement. We will work together with you as the driver to help navigate any mental health challenges with me offering insight and interventions that will help you along the way. I have an integrative approach to therapy which means I work with everyone to assess their goals and needs of therapy, and I combine skills from various treatment modalities that best fits client’s need.
(720) 459-9161 View (720) 459-9161
Photo of Robin Ruscio, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Robin Ruscio
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80210
Is depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder ruining your life? Are you trying to overcome your struggles without success and looking for something different? I can help you with effective, modern therapy that incorporates mindfulness and wellness for true relief from anxiety and depression. Learn REAL skills to prevent your troubling thoughts and emotions from taking control. Find new ways to solve your relationship problems and end self-defeating behaviors. I approach therapy with empathy, knowledge, and research. I work with people with chronic depression, bipolar disorder and anxiety daily and I'm confident I can help you!
Is depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder ruining your life? Are you trying to overcome your struggles without success and looking for something different? I can help you with effective, modern therapy that incorporates mindfulness and wellness for true relief from anxiety and depression. Learn REAL skills to prevent your troubling thoughts and emotions from taking control. Find new ways to solve your relationship problems and end self-defeating behaviors. I approach therapy with empathy, knowledge, and research. I work with people with chronic depression, bipolar disorder and anxiety daily and I'm confident I can help you!
(303) 748-4730 View (303) 748-4730
Photo of Michael Pipich, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michael Pipich
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80237
Located in the DTC, Michael Pipich, LMFT at The Colorado Center for Clinical Excellence, has over 30 years of experience providing psychotherapy services for adults, adolescents, and couples. Assessment and treatment options are offered for a variety of relationship and mental health problems for you or your loved-one, including individual and family therapy work with Bipolar Disorder. Online therapy services (HIPAA-compliant), and assistance with billing out-of-network insurance benefits are among the services available for your convenience. Discover more at thecoloradocenter.com, or call to schedule an appointment today.
Located in the DTC, Michael Pipich, LMFT at The Colorado Center for Clinical Excellence, has over 30 years of experience providing psychotherapy services for adults, adolescents, and couples. Assessment and treatment options are offered for a variety of relationship and mental health problems for you or your loved-one, including individual and family therapy work with Bipolar Disorder. Online therapy services (HIPAA-compliant), and assistance with billing out-of-network insurance benefits are among the services available for your convenience. Discover more at thecoloradocenter.com, or call to schedule an appointment today.
(303) 747-4762 View (303) 747-4762
Photo of Jay Ryser, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jay Ryser
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80210  (Online Only)
Struggling with depression or anxiety? Find yourself avoiding things rather than dealing with them? Find yourself beating yourself up on a regular basis? We can work on that. I have over 30 years of experience working with adults with depression and anxiety (mood disorders - major depression & bipolar and anxiety disorders - panic disorder, generalized anxiety, OCD, phobias, etc.). I tend to take a Here & Now approach, focusing on not just talking, but taking action to make changes. I'm only doing teletherapy currently.
Struggling with depression or anxiety? Find yourself avoiding things rather than dealing with them? Find yourself beating yourself up on a regular basis? We can work on that. I have over 30 years of experience working with adults with depression and anxiety (mood disorders - major depression & bipolar and anxiety disorders - panic disorder, generalized anxiety, OCD, phobias, etc.). I tend to take a Here & Now approach, focusing on not just talking, but taking action to make changes. I'm only doing teletherapy currently.
(720) 410-5399 View (720) 410-5399
Photo of J Lewis, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
J J Lewis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80014  (Online Only)
I work with adults and couples, specializing in Major Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Thought Disorders, Anxiety, Trauma, and PTSD. I practice online and provide a free introductory session. I've been a fully licensed therapist for more than 20 years and am excited to help.
I work with adults and couples, specializing in Major Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Thought Disorders, Anxiety, Trauma, and PTSD. I practice online and provide a free introductory session. I've been a fully licensed therapist for more than 20 years and am excited to help.
(970) 239-8496 View (970) 239-8496
Photo of Taylor Diltz, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Taylor Diltz
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80012  (Online Only)
My specialty involves working with trauma and mood disorders including those with depression, bipolar, and/or anxiety.
As a counselor, I am passionate and dedicated to connecting with people to assist them through any challenges they may be facing. I embrace the strong belief that individuals need to hold a focus on healing rather than not feeling. My approach involves bringing those feelings and memories we try to avoid to the front of our consciousness to process and heal from them in more appropriate and healthy ways. I enjoy working with adults that stem from a variety of backgrounds. In individual, couple, and group settings, I offer a safe, caring, and compassionate environment for all individuals seeking support.
My specialty involves working with trauma and mood disorders including those with depression, bipolar, and/or anxiety.
As a counselor, I am passionate and dedicated to connecting with people to assist them through any challenges they may be facing. I embrace the strong belief that individuals need to hold a focus on healing rather than not feeling. My approach involves bringing those feelings and memories we try to avoid to the front of our consciousness to process and heal from them in more appropriate and healthy ways. I enjoy working with adults that stem from a variety of backgrounds. In individual, couple, and group settings, I offer a safe, caring, and compassionate environment for all individuals seeking support.
(720) 702-1756 View (720) 702-1756
Photo of Lisa Griffiths - Center for Valued Living, PLLC, PsyD, LPC, LCSW, LMFT, LAC, Psychologist
Center for Valued Living, PLLC
Psychologist, PsyD, LPC, LCSW, LMFT, LAC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80237
Common Issues or Specialties: Adults, Children/Adolescents/Teens, Family, Depression, Anxiety, Mood Disorders, Trauma/PTSD, Bipolar, Relationship problems, Couples, EMDR, CBT, DBT, play therapy, work/school stress; Identity issues; panic, grief/loss, work comp.
We are a group of highly-qualified mental health therapists serving all over CO via telehealth and in-person (offices in Aurora). Our licensed therapists and supervised LPCC/SWC/intern providers take most insurances including Medicaid. See c4vl.com or photo gallery for details on our clinicians, & specialties, insurances. We are committed to anti-racist, neurodivergent-affirming, and GLBTQIA+ allied practice. We have providers who speak Spanish, French, and Russian. Hablamos Espanol tambien!
Common Issues or Specialties: Adults, Children/Adolescents/Teens, Family, Depression, Anxiety, Mood Disorders, Trauma/PTSD, Bipolar, Relationship problems, Couples, EMDR, CBT, DBT, play therapy, work/school stress; Identity issues; panic, grief/loss, work comp.
We are a group of highly-qualified mental health therapists serving all over CO via telehealth and in-person (offices in Aurora). Our licensed therapists and supervised LPCC/SWC/intern providers take most insurances including Medicaid. See c4vl.com or photo gallery for details on our clinicians, & specialties, insurances. We are committed to anti-racist, neurodivergent-affirming, and GLBTQIA+ allied practice. We have providers who speak Spanish, French, and Russian. Hablamos Espanol tambien!
(720) 262-5859 View (720) 262-5859
Photo of Bianca Massara, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bianca Massara
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80223
My background includes: extensive work in Community Mental Health, working with a myriad of diverse adult populations; work with Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Adjustment Disorders, Self-Esteem, PTSD, Traumatic Brain Injury, Bipolar Disorder, and specializing in those seeking Ketamine Assisted Therapy, Psychedelic Integration/Psychedelic Assisted Therapy.
Choosing to heal is a brave decision, the work can be difficult, and you don't have to do it alone. I believe it is an honor to hold space for others in their healing, and this space allows individuals to move through healing while feeling supported. I approach each client with humility, care, kindness, and openness. I take pride in creating and providing an inclusive space for others to feel safe, and to fully express their authentic self.
My background includes: extensive work in Community Mental Health, working with a myriad of diverse adult populations; work with Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Adjustment Disorders, Self-Esteem, PTSD, Traumatic Brain Injury, Bipolar Disorder, and specializing in those seeking Ketamine Assisted Therapy, Psychedelic Integration/Psychedelic Assisted Therapy.
Choosing to heal is a brave decision, the work can be difficult, and you don't have to do it alone. I believe it is an honor to hold space for others in their healing, and this space allows individuals to move through healing while feeling supported. I approach each client with humility, care, kindness, and openness. I take pride in creating and providing an inclusive space for others to feel safe, and to fully express their authentic self.
(303) 951-4930 View (303) 951-4930
Photo of Mike Hart, PhD, MS, Psychologist
Mike Hart
Psychologist, PhD, MS
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80211
Oftentimes in life we find ourselves stuck and uncertain how to move forward. Whether it's anxiety, grief, depression, trauma, difficulties with a life transition, or another issue, I aim to help each person I work with identify what's holding them back and explore ways to generate momentum toward a more fulfilling life. I work with adults of diverse cultural identities in addressing a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, grief, OCD, trauma, career concerns, substance abuse, depression, stress, relationship problems, bipolar disorders, and ADHD. I also offer psychological testing and assessment.
Oftentimes in life we find ourselves stuck and uncertain how to move forward. Whether it's anxiety, grief, depression, trauma, difficulties with a life transition, or another issue, I aim to help each person I work with identify what's holding them back and explore ways to generate momentum toward a more fulfilling life. I work with adults of diverse cultural identities in addressing a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, grief, OCD, trauma, career concerns, substance abuse, depression, stress, relationship problems, bipolar disorders, and ADHD. I also offer psychological testing and assessment.
(720) 703-9688 View (720) 703-9688
Photo of Patrick Jeter, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Patrick Jeter
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80219  (Online Only)
I have been working as a counselor (supervised by a licensed counselor, registered counselor and eventually as a fully Licensed Professional Counselor) since 2013. I primarily help young adults and adults who are struggling with depression, anxiety, symptoms of Bipolar 1 and 2 and/or substance use issues (combined with mood issues or addiction alone).
I have been working as a counselor (supervised by a licensed counselor, registered counselor and eventually as a fully Licensed Professional Counselor) since 2013. I primarily help young adults and adults who are struggling with depression, anxiety, symptoms of Bipolar 1 and 2 and/or substance use issues (combined with mood issues or addiction alone).
(720) 807-7484 View (720) 807-7484
Photo of Darin J. Wallis, PhD, LMFT, LCSW, CACIII, Marriage & Family Therapist
Darin J. Wallis
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, LCSW, CACIII
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80207
My experience and clinical work ranges from working with couples experiencing intense conflict in their relationship, high conflict families, troubled youth, individuals experiencing distress due to substance abuse issues, and individual problems related to anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, various psychotic disorders, and paranormal phenomenon.
My name is Dr. Darin Wallis & I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, & a Certified Addictions Counselor in Metro-Denver. My practice focuses on helping couples, families, & individuals with their relationships, their mental health, as well as substance abuse problems. I am a compassionate and committed therapist who is dedicated to helping others achieve security & satisfaction with their relationships. I can help you! Couples Therapy, Marital Therapy, & Family Therapy are my specialties, along with a unique expertise working with families experiencing paranormal phenomenon.
My experience and clinical work ranges from working with couples experiencing intense conflict in their relationship, high conflict families, troubled youth, individuals experiencing distress due to substance abuse issues, and individual problems related to anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, various psychotic disorders, and paranormal phenomenon.
My name is Dr. Darin Wallis & I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, & a Certified Addictions Counselor in Metro-Denver. My practice focuses on helping couples, families, & individuals with their relationships, their mental health, as well as substance abuse problems. I am a compassionate and committed therapist who is dedicated to helping others achieve security & satisfaction with their relationships. I can help you! Couples Therapy, Marital Therapy, & Family Therapy are my specialties, along with a unique expertise working with families experiencing paranormal phenomenon.
(303) 900-7218 View (303) 900-7218
Photo of Jack Williams, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jack Williams
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80211
I help adults with anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, adjustment issues, insomnia, ADHD, grief and loss, perfectionism, self-esteem, relationship struggles, panic, social anxiety, obsessive and compulsive disorder (OCD) and trauma.
Therapy gives us the chance to see ourselves, our relationships, and the world in a different way. Therapy also helps us build the skills necessary to achieve our goals. My approach to therapy is collaborative, goal oriented, and focused on building a strong therapeutic relationship that creates and environment of trust and respect that allows us to grow and solve problems together. Challenges always look the most difficult when you are facing them alone and I want to be there to help you when you’re facing your biggest challenges.
I help adults with anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, adjustment issues, insomnia, ADHD, grief and loss, perfectionism, self-esteem, relationship struggles, panic, social anxiety, obsessive and compulsive disorder (OCD) and trauma.
Therapy gives us the chance to see ourselves, our relationships, and the world in a different way. Therapy also helps us build the skills necessary to achieve our goals. My approach to therapy is collaborative, goal oriented, and focused on building a strong therapeutic relationship that creates and environment of trust and respect that allows us to grow and solve problems together. Challenges always look the most difficult when you are facing them alone and I want to be there to help you when you’re facing your biggest challenges.
(720) 784-5394 View (720) 784-5394
Photo of Jennifer Jennings, LCSW, LAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Jennings
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LAC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80246
Not accepting new clients
Hi! My name is Jennifer Jennings. I specialize treating trauma/PTSD, depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, life transitions, addictions, couples therapy, women and men issues, adolescents’, anger issues, grief/ loss, sexual abuse, relationship issues, co-occurring disorders, and working with the military. I work primarily with adults. I am a military veteran, and I served 4 years in the USAF.
Hi! My name is Jennifer Jennings. I specialize treating trauma/PTSD, depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, life transitions, addictions, couples therapy, women and men issues, adolescents’, anger issues, grief/ loss, sexual abuse, relationship issues, co-occurring disorders, and working with the military. I work primarily with adults. I am a military veteran, and I served 4 years in the USAF.
(720) 744-3963 View (720) 744-3963
Photo of Julia Hamlett, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julia Hamlett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80210
Julia's experience spans a wide range of concerns including anxietyrelated disorders, depression, trauma, bipolar disorder, ADHD, familial/relational conflicts, gender identity, women's issues, men's issues, emotion identification and regulation, grief, attachment wounds, transitional life experiences, and work/school related stress.
Julia Hamlett is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Colorado who has been practicing since 2020. She graduated with her Master of Social Work and AnimalAssisted Social Work Certificate at the University of Denver Graduate School of Social Work and obtained her Bachelor's degree in Psychology with a minor in Human Services from Stevenson University.
Julia's experience spans a wide range of concerns including anxietyrelated disorders, depression, trauma, bipolar disorder, ADHD, familial/relational conflicts, gender identity, women's issues, men's issues, emotion identification and regulation, grief, attachment wounds, transitional life experiences, and work/school related stress.
Julia Hamlett is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Colorado who has been practicing since 2020. She graduated with her Master of Social Work and AnimalAssisted Social Work Certificate at the University of Denver Graduate School of Social Work and obtained her Bachelor's degree in Psychology with a minor in Human Services from Stevenson University.
(720) 734-3846 View (720) 734-3846
1
...
Bipolar Disorder Therapists

What is the most successful approach to treating bipolar disorder?

Living with bipolar disorder can be challenging, and a number of therapies have been found effective in providing support to patients as they gain the skills to understand and manage the disorder. Family-focused therapy is often helpful for children and teens (the majority of cases develop before age 19); it aims to minimize mood cycling by improving family communication and reducing conflict. It also helps young people navigate the developmental challenges the disorder can create. Cognitive and behavioral therapy (CBT) and variants such as Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)help patients manage the thoughts and feelings that influence bipolar mood swings as well as develop specific behavioral strategies to counteract them.

What happens in therapy for bipolar disorder?

Because the patterns of mood switching and its triggers differ for each person and can change over time, mood tracking or monitoring becomes a basic way patients learn about the nature of their condition. One of the most common features of therapy is finding a workable method of mood monitoring, in which patients track their daily activities and rate their moods, then use the findings to adjust routines accordingly. Patients learn ways of handling the many stresses that arise in life so that they do not trigger mood swings.

What kinds of problems does therapy help with?

Like many other mental health disorders, BPD is heavily influenced by stress; therapy provides skills for coping with stressors of all kinds. Therapy is extremely important for helping individuals identify the situations that may trigger mood switching, so that mood swings can be prevented. Therapy may especially target recognition of the early stages of mood change so that they can be managed. In addition, therapy helps patients deal with the significant amount of turbulence the disorder can create in relationships and in work life.

What is the goal of therapy for bipolar disorder?

Therapy helps patients set up their lives to maintain stability so that their mood isn’t constantly threatened by daily events. Perhaps the first task of therapy is to educate people about the nature of the disorder. At the same time, a primary goal of therapy is to enhance adherence to drug treatment. Extended periods of mood stability can prompt patients to discontinue medication, triggering relapse, while the early phases of manic episodes can feel so energizing that patients stop medication, ushering in full-blown mania and the altered self-perception that can lead to destructive behaviors. Another major goal of therapy is to understand one’s mood patterns so as to minimize both the frequency and intensity of mood cycling.