Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Hilliard, FL

Photo of Amanda Miller-Hodges, LMHC, C-DBT, CGP
Amanda Miller-Hodges
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, C-DBT, CGP
Verified Verified
Hilliard, FL 32046  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, a challenging relationship, loss of a sense of self, or overwhelming emotions that affect your day-to-day life? Do you often have the thought that there’s no light at the end of the tunnel or wonder that life could be better? Now more than ever people are feeling uncertain or overwhelmed about navigating difficult relationships, managing intense emotions, working through a loss or finding your purpose in life. I believe people can change & there is hope. Together we will work to change your negative thoughts & behaviors and create a better response to life’s difficult situations.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, a challenging relationship, loss of a sense of self, or overwhelming emotions that affect your day-to-day life? Do you often have the thought that there’s no light at the end of the tunnel or wonder that life could be better? Now more than ever people are feeling uncertain or overwhelmed about navigating difficult relationships, managing intense emotions, working through a loss or finding your purpose in life. I believe people can change & there is hope. Together we will work to change your negative thoughts & behaviors and create a better response to life’s difficult situations.
(904) 830-6109 View (904) 830-6109
Photo of Stephanie Barshay, LCMHC, Counselor
Stephanie Barshay
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Hilliard, FL 32046
I am a licensed mental health counselor in Florida with over 15 years of experience. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns, including addictions (drugs, alcohol, gambling, eating, shopping, and hoarding), depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, trauma, children and adolescents in foster care, OCD, and eating disorders. I am a qualified supervisor for therapists, have treated professionals with substance abuse disorders to maintain their licensure, and was employed as a psycho-forensic evaluator for the Public Defender's Office in Delaware.
I am a licensed mental health counselor in Florida with over 15 years of experience. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns, including addictions (drugs, alcohol, gambling, eating, shopping, and hoarding), depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, trauma, children and adolescents in foster care, OCD, and eating disorders. I am a qualified supervisor for therapists, have treated professionals with substance abuse disorders to maintain their licensure, and was employed as a psycho-forensic evaluator for the Public Defender's Office in Delaware.
(305) 686-5497 View (305) 686-5497
Photo of Patricia Barreto, PhD, Psychologist
Patricia Barreto
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Hilliard, FL 32046
Dr. Barreto is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with a background in Medical Psychology, Geriatrics, Trauma, and General Mental Health. In addition, she has extensive knowledge in treating military members, veterans, and their families. She completed her PhD in Medical and Clinical Psychology at the University of Alabama at Birmingham in 2012. Her practice blends neurobiological, interpersonal, and humanistic treatment modalities. Specializing in behavioral medicine, the mind-body connection is a central theme in her work. Dr. Barreto offers home visits to homebound and hospice patients.
Dr. Barreto is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with a background in Medical Psychology, Geriatrics, Trauma, and General Mental Health. In addition, she has extensive knowledge in treating military members, veterans, and their families. She completed her PhD in Medical and Clinical Psychology at the University of Alabama at Birmingham in 2012. Her practice blends neurobiological, interpersonal, and humanistic treatment modalities. Specializing in behavioral medicine, the mind-body connection is a central theme in her work. Dr. Barreto offers home visits to homebound and hospice patients.
(904) 447-1442 View (904) 447-1442

Online Therapists

Photo of Dawna Bone, PsyD, Psychologist
Dawna Bone
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Yulee, FL 32097  (Online Only)
I am a licensed psychologist with over 25 years of experience. I specialize in PTSD and other anxiety disorders, as well as. in Bipolar Disorder and Depression.
I am a licensed psychologist with over 25 years of experience. I specialize in PTSD and other anxiety disorders, as well as. in Bipolar Disorder and Depression.
(904) 747-3217 View (904) 747-3217
Photo of Jeannie L Mitchell, MS, LMHC, NCC, CCMHC, EMDR, Counselor
Jeannie L Mitchell
Counselor, MS, LMHC, NCC, CCMHC, EMDR
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Fleming Island, FL 32003
She sees patients with a variety of diagnosis and problems including; PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, Anger, Bipolar, Chronic Stress, Health Issues, Relationship issues, Phobias, or Professional Development.
Jeannie Mitchell works in a therapeutic setting, helping individuals overcome the effects of trauma, anxiety & depression. She is non-judgmental and caring in her approach and will individually tailor counseling strategies to meet your needs, diagnosis, and preferences. She has advanced training in Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR), an evidenced-based treatment for those with past trauma or PTSD. Jeannie is a veteran with a unique perspective to help veterans, military members, and their families work through military life issues.
She sees patients with a variety of diagnosis and problems including; PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, Anger, Bipolar, Chronic Stress, Health Issues, Relationship issues, Phobias, or Professional Development.
Jeannie Mitchell works in a therapeutic setting, helping individuals overcome the effects of trauma, anxiety & depression. She is non-judgmental and caring in her approach and will individually tailor counseling strategies to meet your needs, diagnosis, and preferences. She has advanced training in Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR), an evidenced-based treatment for those with past trauma or PTSD. Jeannie is a veteran with a unique perspective to help veterans, military members, and their families work through military life issues.
(904) 844-0742 View (904) 844-0742
Photo of Melanie Juli, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Melanie Juli
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32256
My specialties include marriage and relationship issues, family systems issues, co-dependency, addiction, trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and chronic pain.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I earned a BA in Interdisciplinary Arts and Humanities from Florida Atlantic University in 2009. I then went on to earn a Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy from Nova Southeastern University in 2012, which I did in 2013. I have had experience working with a variety of different clients in multiple settings. I have extensive experience treating clients with addiction disorders as well as working with their families and loved ones who are working on their own program of recovery as well.
My specialties include marriage and relationship issues, family systems issues, co-dependency, addiction, trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and chronic pain.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I earned a BA in Interdisciplinary Arts and Humanities from Florida Atlantic University in 2009. I then went on to earn a Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy from Nova Southeastern University in 2012, which I did in 2013. I have had experience working with a variety of different clients in multiple settings. I have extensive experience treating clients with addiction disorders as well as working with their families and loved ones who are working on their own program of recovery as well.
(321) 710-0407 View (321) 710-0407
Photo of Julie Johnson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julie Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Orange Park, FL 32073  (Online Only)
I am a Clinical Social Worker licensed in Florida with over 10 years of experience working as a psychotherapist and life coach. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, bipolar disorders, and ADHD. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. I have specialty training working with healthcare providers.
I am a Clinical Social Worker licensed in Florida with over 10 years of experience working as a psychotherapist and life coach. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, bipolar disorders, and ADHD. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. I have specialty training working with healthcare providers.
(904) 977-6631 View (904) 977-6631
Photo of Rennie Manning, MACP, LMHC, Counselor
Rennie Manning
Counselor, MACP, LMHC
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32210
I work with many populations and have had much success with PTSD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, pre-marital and couples counseling.
Is past trauma keeping you stuck? Does depression, anxiety and worry keep you from enjoying the life you want and deserve? Do you feel trapped in your marriage or relationship? Are you a teen trying to navigate middle or high school? I can help. I have 30 years of experience helping my clients improve communication, resolve conflicts, increase marital satisfaction, and letting go of things that no longer serve. I combine cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment, and compassion focused therapy. Many of us carry shame and guilt and seem blocked from forgiving ourselves. I teach compassion for self.
I work with many populations and have had much success with PTSD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, pre-marital and couples counseling.
Is past trauma keeping you stuck? Does depression, anxiety and worry keep you from enjoying the life you want and deserve? Do you feel trapped in your marriage or relationship? Are you a teen trying to navigate middle or high school? I can help. I have 30 years of experience helping my clients improve communication, resolve conflicts, increase marital satisfaction, and letting go of things that no longer serve. I combine cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment, and compassion focused therapy. Many of us carry shame and guilt and seem blocked from forgiving ourselves. I teach compassion for self.
(904) 421-9710 View (904) 421-9710
Photo of Amy A Wilson, LMHC, Counselor
Amy A Wilson
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Orange Park, FL 32065  (Online Only)
I specialize in trauma, marriage and family counseling, grief and loss, and various mental health diagnoses including psychotic disorders, Borderline Personality Disorder, depression, anxiety, separation disorder, oppositional defiant disorder, ADHD, and Bipolar Disorder.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in the state of Florida with 16 years experience in the field of mental health. I help individuals, couples, and families find new ways to navigate life. To find hope and where there once was none. I specialize in trauma, substance use, marriage and family counseling, and various mental health diagnoses. I am a wife, mother, and lover of Great Danes (we have 2). I am a trained in EMDR through EMDRIA and a Certified Trauma Professional, a Certified Mindfulness-Informed Clinician, certified in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and CAMS Certified in Suicide Prevention.
I specialize in trauma, marriage and family counseling, grief and loss, and various mental health diagnoses including psychotic disorders, Borderline Personality Disorder, depression, anxiety, separation disorder, oppositional defiant disorder, ADHD, and Bipolar Disorder.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in the state of Florida with 16 years experience in the field of mental health. I help individuals, couples, and families find new ways to navigate life. To find hope and where there once was none. I specialize in trauma, substance use, marriage and family counseling, and various mental health diagnoses. I am a wife, mother, and lover of Great Danes (we have 2). I am a trained in EMDR through EMDRIA and a Certified Trauma Professional, a Certified Mindfulness-Informed Clinician, certified in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and CAMS Certified in Suicide Prevention.
(904) 780-9668 View (904) 780-9668
Photo of Raquisha Bing, RMHCI, Pre-Licensed Professional
Raquisha Bing
Pre-Licensed Professional, RMHCI
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32244  (Online Only)
I have experience working with individuals with trauma, depression, bipolar, anxiety, phobias, self-esteem issues, survivors of abuse, life transitions, inner-child work, racial issues, LGBTQIA+ issues, and stress.
EMDR clinician (EMDRIA-Approved). Currently accepting clients! Embarking on your journey to healing can feel like a daunting task because you may not know where to start. Our time together will be spent working collaboratively to help you on your path to healing past/current traumas, self-exploration, self-discovery, and empowerment. We all need support no matter what problems we have. I strive to create a safe environment where you can speak your mind freely without judgement but also, I am also here to challenge you for you to achieve your greatest potential.
I have experience working with individuals with trauma, depression, bipolar, anxiety, phobias, self-esteem issues, survivors of abuse, life transitions, inner-child work, racial issues, LGBTQIA+ issues, and stress.
EMDR clinician (EMDRIA-Approved). Currently accepting clients! Embarking on your journey to healing can feel like a daunting task because you may not know where to start. Our time together will be spent working collaboratively to help you on your path to healing past/current traumas, self-exploration, self-discovery, and empowerment. We all need support no matter what problems we have. I strive to create a safe environment where you can speak your mind freely without judgement but also, I am also here to challenge you for you to achieve your greatest potential.
(904) 932-9401 View (904) 932-9401
Photo of Sara Fulkerson, MSW, RCSWI
Sara Fulkerson
Registered Clinical Social Worker Intern, MSW, RCSWI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palm Coast, FL 32137  (Online Only)
Life’s twists, turns, and transitions can at times be overwhelming. You do not have to walk alone. My approach to therapy is to create a safe space to work through your experiences and to support you in the next steps on your journey. I have experience working with individuals diagnosed with bipolar, schizophrenia, depression, and anxiety. My client-centered approach includes utilizing mindfulness, boundary-setting, grief processing, narrative therapy, ACT, and DBT. I am also a Gottman Level 1 trained therapist.
Life’s twists, turns, and transitions can at times be overwhelming. You do not have to walk alone. My approach to therapy is to create a safe space to work through your experiences and to support you in the next steps on your journey. I have experience working with individuals diagnosed with bipolar, schizophrenia, depression, and anxiety. My client-centered approach includes utilizing mindfulness, boundary-setting, grief processing, narrative therapy, ACT, and DBT. I am also a Gottman Level 1 trained therapist.
(904) 650-4090 View (904) 650-4090
Photo of Michelle Rampone About You Counseling Coaching Llc, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Rampone About You Counseling Coaching Llc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Fernandina Beach, FL 32034
Our practice offers individual, couples, family & group counseling. Our area of speciality, however, is working with school age children, young adults & their families who struggle with emotional, behavioral & mood issues such as ADD / ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Anger Management, Grief & Adjustments to life changes and stress. Growing up is a challenge for most, but for kids & young adults who deal with these issues, life may seem overwhelming specially those who are defiant, disrespectful, who feel entitled or are resistant to counseling. Our goal is to teach them the essential skills in coping, problem solving, communication, organization, studying, socializing, etc.
Our practice offers individual, couples, family & group counseling. Our area of speciality, however, is working with school age children, young adults & their families who struggle with emotional, behavioral & mood issues such as ADD / ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Anger Management, Grief & Adjustments to life changes and stress. Growing up is a challenge for most, but for kids & young adults who deal with these issues, life may seem overwhelming specially those who are defiant, disrespectful, who feel entitled or are resistant to counseling. Our goal is to teach them the essential skills in coping, problem solving, communication, organization, studying, socializing, etc.
(904) 674-3906 View (904) 674-3906
Photo of Deborah Tome, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Deborah Tome
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fernandina Beach, FL 32034
I am a laid-back therapist. I have over 40 years of experience in this profession and have learned a variety of approaches and techniques. My top modalities are Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Eclectic, Family Systems, Dialectical (DBT), Family / Marital, Interpersonal, Mindfulness, Trauma Therapy, and Couples Therapy. My specialties are Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Coping Skills, Trauma, and PTSD. I believe our relationship is a partnership, with both of us working as a team to provide you with success!
I am a laid-back therapist. I have over 40 years of experience in this profession and have learned a variety of approaches and techniques. My top modalities are Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Eclectic, Family Systems, Dialectical (DBT), Family / Marital, Interpersonal, Mindfulness, Trauma Therapy, and Couples Therapy. My specialties are Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Coping Skills, Trauma, and PTSD. I believe our relationship is a partnership, with both of us working as a team to provide you with success!
(305) 518-1257 View (305) 518-1257
Photo of Chermora Johnson, LCMHC, Counselor
Chermora Johnson
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Palm Coast, FL 32164
I work with trauma, depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.
Hello, my name is Chermora Johnson, a Licensed Mental Health therapist. I have experience with adolescence, substance abuse, crisis, trauma, depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. I have worked with various substance abuse and crisis intervention for several years. I work with trauma, depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. I used the following theoretical approach of person-centered, cognitive-behavioral, motivational-interview, Gestalt, solution-focused, and WRAP approach.
I work with trauma, depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.
Hello, my name is Chermora Johnson, a Licensed Mental Health therapist. I have experience with adolescence, substance abuse, crisis, trauma, depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. I have worked with various substance abuse and crisis intervention for several years. I work with trauma, depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. I used the following theoretical approach of person-centered, cognitive-behavioral, motivational-interview, Gestalt, solution-focused, and WRAP approach.
(904) 447-1473 View (904) 447-1473
Photo of Aquarius N Cox, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Aquarius N Cox
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32244  (Online Only)
Taking new clients. Accept many insurances. I have worked with adolescents and adults for 5 years. Whether you are working through life struggles, marital problems, depression, anxiety, grief, bipolar disorder or other forms of mental illness, I am here to help you gain the insight and skills need for increased self-awareness, coping, motivation and overall improvement. Once we meet, I will work with you to create a treatment plan that will help you achieve your goals.
Taking new clients. Accept many insurances. I have worked with adolescents and adults for 5 years. Whether you are working through life struggles, marital problems, depression, anxiety, grief, bipolar disorder or other forms of mental illness, I am here to help you gain the insight and skills need for increased self-awareness, coping, motivation and overall improvement. Once we meet, I will work with you to create a treatment plan that will help you achieve your goals.
(904) 601-1145 View (904) 601-1145
Photo of Melody Marzulli Ott, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melody Marzulli Ott
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Augustine, FL 32086
I specialize in working with older children, adolescents and adults who struggle with anxiety disorders, OCD, depression, bipolar disorder, oppositional defiant disorder, and any life transition that may be creating a challenge.
I have been blessed to work with children, adolescents and families for the past 25 years, in both clinical and faith-based settings. As a wife and mother of three wonderful children I understand the challenges that face both children and parents in this fast-paced world. By utilizing a multidimensional approach, the mind, body and spirit can be transformed to facilitate healing on all levels. I earned my Masters Degree in Clinical Social work from Florida State University and am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker.
I specialize in working with older children, adolescents and adults who struggle with anxiety disorders, OCD, depression, bipolar disorder, oppositional defiant disorder, and any life transition that may be creating a challenge.
I have been blessed to work with children, adolescents and families for the past 25 years, in both clinical and faith-based settings. As a wife and mother of three wonderful children I understand the challenges that face both children and parents in this fast-paced world. By utilizing a multidimensional approach, the mind, body and spirit can be transformed to facilitate healing on all levels. I earned my Masters Degree in Clinical Social work from Florida State University and am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker.
(904) 423-8826 View (904) 423-8826
Hydee Vanterpool
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32216
I'm proficient in treating Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, PTSD, relationships, self-esteem, couple/family conflict, Trauma, Eating Disorders, Stress Management and Coping Skills.
I'm a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with several years of experience. I've volunteered with several community agencies in the past in the areas of domestic violence, trauma, and family dynamic including improving familial relationships and communication. I have experiencing working with children, adolescents, adults and families in regards to mental health issues, trauma, domestic violence, substance abuse, parenting, marital/family conflict, stress management, school issues, communication, self-esteem in a healthy way using a cognitive behavioral approach.
I'm proficient in treating Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, PTSD, relationships, self-esteem, couple/family conflict, Trauma, Eating Disorders, Stress Management and Coping Skills.
I'm a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with several years of experience. I've volunteered with several community agencies in the past in the areas of domestic violence, trauma, and family dynamic including improving familial relationships and communication. I have experiencing working with children, adolescents, adults and families in regards to mental health issues, trauma, domestic violence, substance abuse, parenting, marital/family conflict, stress management, school issues, communication, self-esteem in a healthy way using a cognitive behavioral approach.
(904) 615-8312 View (904) 615-8312
Photo of Cynthia Noemi Aleman, LMHC
Cynthia Noemi Aleman
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32256  (Online Only)
I have over 10 years of experience working with addictions and mental health disorders including; anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, and PTSD among others.
Book with me now by clicking on my website. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and I am here to help navigate through life issues and mental health challenges. I can help you through your journey providing support, guidance, and facilitating processing difficult emotions utilizing cognitive techniques and behavior modification among others. I am a responsible, mature, and committed individual with strong communication skills who has a long standing and successful counseling career and loves to work with individuals, families, couples, and groups.
I have over 10 years of experience working with addictions and mental health disorders including; anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, and PTSD among others.
Book with me now by clicking on my website. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and I am here to help navigate through life issues and mental health challenges. I can help you through your journey providing support, guidance, and facilitating processing difficult emotions utilizing cognitive techniques and behavior modification among others. I am a responsible, mature, and committed individual with strong communication skills who has a long standing and successful counseling career and loves to work with individuals, families, couples, and groups.
(863) 862-4924 View (863) 862-4924
Photo of Megan Segall, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Megan Segall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Orange Park, FL 32065
I work with clients experiencing trauma, depression, anxiety, dissociative disorders, gender dysphoria, bipolar disorder, grief, addiction, and obsessive-compulsive disorders.
My name is Megan Segall and as a clinical social worker, I approach therapy with a sociological perspective and look at each individual with a fresh lens based on their unique circumstances. I have experience working with individuals, couples, and families of all ages with varying issues. My treatment approach modalities include CBT, mindfulness, inner child work, trauma-focused CBT, motivational interviewing, and more. I have a laid-back approach. I want you to feel comfortable and supported throughout our time together.
I work with clients experiencing trauma, depression, anxiety, dissociative disorders, gender dysphoria, bipolar disorder, grief, addiction, and obsessive-compulsive disorders.
My name is Megan Segall and as a clinical social worker, I approach therapy with a sociological perspective and look at each individual with a fresh lens based on their unique circumstances. I have experience working with individuals, couples, and families of all ages with varying issues. My treatment approach modalities include CBT, mindfulness, inner child work, trauma-focused CBT, motivational interviewing, and more. I have a laid-back approach. I want you to feel comfortable and supported throughout our time together.
(407) 743-7123 View (407) 743-7123
Photo of Tara Louise McNamara, LMHC, Counselor
Tara Louise McNamara
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32224
I have worked with individuals experiencing a variety of disorders such as depression, PTSD, anxiety and bipolar disorder.
Hope. I hear that so much in therapy. Is there hope? Will things get better? My answer is there will always be hope. Hope brought you to this website. Hope motivates us and with the help of a therapeutic alliance provides insight and a course foward. My goal is to teach you tools and provide a environment in which you feel secure in sharing your experiences.
I have worked with individuals experiencing a variety of disorders such as depression, PTSD, anxiety and bipolar disorder.
Hope. I hear that so much in therapy. Is there hope? Will things get better? My answer is there will always be hope. Hope brought you to this website. Hope motivates us and with the help of a therapeutic alliance provides insight and a course foward. My goal is to teach you tools and provide a environment in which you feel secure in sharing your experiences.
(904) 875-5346 View (904) 875-5346

See more therapy options for Hilliard

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.