Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Jacksonville, FL
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.
![Photo of Lynnell Moss, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a56a496b-393a-419e-88b6-689d872ff3d0/1/320x400.png)
I am a License Marriage and Family Therapist with over 10 years of clinical experience working with various individuals, couples, and families with Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Trauma, PTSD, Sexual Abuse, and Personality Disorders. I often utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution-focused Therapy, Trauma-focused therapy, and Gestalt techniques, but I also use other approaches. I believe in working adamantly to make a real difference, using an authentic and gentle style.
I am a License Marriage and Family Therapist with over 10 years of clinical experience working with various individuals, couples, and families with Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Trauma, PTSD, Sexual Abuse, and Personality Disorders. I often utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution-focused Therapy, Trauma-focused therapy, and Gestalt techniques, but I also use other approaches. I believe in working adamantly to make a real difference, using an authentic and gentle style.
![Photo of Sean Stephens, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/14f61042-c054-486a-a94b-7c0bfc957308/1/320x400.jpeg)
My areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, adjustment to medical conditions and other health issues, college aged students, stress management, adjustment issues related to transitions in life, and aging and geriatric issues.
In today’s world, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the daily rigors and uncertainties of life. Thoughts like “am I good enough?” or “can I do this?” typically bring to the surface feelings of sadness, self-doubt and inadequacy. Then, you retreat and live within a dark cloud that could color your experience for years. I teach people strategies to manage themselves so that life doesn't seem so debilitating. As a licensed clinical psychologist, I work together with my patients to identify and change their negative self-talk so that they can face their fears and expand their comfort zone.
My areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, adjustment to medical conditions and other health issues, college aged students, stress management, adjustment issues related to transitions in life, and aging and geriatric issues.
In today’s world, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the daily rigors and uncertainties of life. Thoughts like “am I good enough?” or “can I do this?” typically bring to the surface feelings of sadness, self-doubt and inadequacy. Then, you retreat and live within a dark cloud that could color your experience for years. I teach people strategies to manage themselves so that life doesn't seem so debilitating. As a licensed clinical psychologist, I work together with my patients to identify and change their negative self-talk so that they can face their fears and expand their comfort zone.
![Photo of Tracy Foster, LMHC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44a0d579-dda2-4c93-9132-9d05fc5259dd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tracy Foster
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32201 (Online Only)
I also counsel mental health diagnoses such as Bipolar Disorder, among other diagnoses.
Good day! I am licensed in Florida with 7 years of therapeutic work experience. You can book with me here: headway.co/providers/tracy-foster. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My goal is to create a safe and relaxing atmosphere to have my clients feel comfortable in session. You may also find me at www.betterhelp.com/tracy-foster.
I also counsel mental health diagnoses such as Bipolar Disorder, among other diagnoses.
Good day! I am licensed in Florida with 7 years of therapeutic work experience. You can book with me here: headway.co/providers/tracy-foster. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My goal is to create a safe and relaxing atmosphere to have my clients feel comfortable in session. You may also find me at www.betterhelp.com/tracy-foster.
![Photo of Lynnell Moss - Systems Family Therapy, LLC, LMFT, C-PD, C-DBT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/23f1114f-06ac-405e-9290-924b271eb073/2/320x400.jpeg)
Systems Family Therapy, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, C-PD, C-DBT
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32201 (Online Only)
We also specialize in managing Borderline Personality Disorder, Mood Disorder, Trauma/PTSD and Bipolar Disorder.
If you’re feeling lost, broken, helpless …Alone. We can help. We make talking easy, confidential and safe. We work well with shy, socially anxious or nervous people. We’re ready and we can make a difference!
We also specialize in managing Borderline Personality Disorder, Mood Disorder, Trauma/PTSD and Bipolar Disorder.
If you’re feeling lost, broken, helpless …Alone. We can help. We make talking easy, confidential and safe. We work well with shy, socially anxious or nervous people. We’re ready and we can make a difference!
![Photo of Roselyn Ortega, MS, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ea45e9c7-a0fd-4c49-add8-ce752751397b/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have years of experience with a variety of disorders most comfortable and experienced with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, life transition problems, PTSD, sexual abuse, human trafficking, and trauma.
With a passion for helping others achieve their greatest potential, providing a safe and comfortable atmosphere to clients to lay the groundwork for open communication and personal accomplishments. Investing in clients and working with them to achieve their therapeutic goals is a priority. The ideal outcome is to help clients to learn skills that they can use in all settings and relationships and support them as they function in all areas of their life holistically. The idea is they find inner peace and personal joy.
I have years of experience with a variety of disorders most comfortable and experienced with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, life transition problems, PTSD, sexual abuse, human trafficking, and trauma.
With a passion for helping others achieve their greatest potential, providing a safe and comfortable atmosphere to clients to lay the groundwork for open communication and personal accomplishments. Investing in clients and working with them to achieve their therapeutic goals is a priority. The ideal outcome is to help clients to learn skills that they can use in all settings and relationships and support them as they function in all areas of their life holistically. The idea is they find inner peace and personal joy.
![Photo of Ashlyn Knight, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b07af3d4-3e26-441f-9ee4-ff41a873c281/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have experience with adolescents to elder adults who struggle with depression, anxiety, addiction, and an array of other issues including bipolar disorder, relationship issues, stress, and personality disorders.
I am so proud of you for making this first step in looking for a therapist! Are you feeling depressed, anxious, or overwhelmed? Are you wanting to improve your relationships with the people that mean the most to you? Are you having a hard time making decisions? You're in the right place! My goal is to help you through these tough times. You deserve to feel at peace with yourself and with your life and I want to help you get there. I am currently taking on new clients and look forward to meeting you.
I have experience with adolescents to elder adults who struggle with depression, anxiety, addiction, and an array of other issues including bipolar disorder, relationship issues, stress, and personality disorders.
I am so proud of you for making this first step in looking for a therapist! Are you feeling depressed, anxious, or overwhelmed? Are you wanting to improve your relationships with the people that mean the most to you? Are you having a hard time making decisions? You're in the right place! My goal is to help you through these tough times. You deserve to feel at peace with yourself and with your life and I want to help you get there. I am currently taking on new clients and look forward to meeting you.
![Photo of Dr. Ellen A Williams, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/230e8d8e-2565-4b7b-bae2-66d502907540/1/320x400.jpeg)
As a clinical psychologist, I understand the challenges of mental illness and the loneliness and confusion it can sometimes bring. It may be difficult to feel hopeful about getting better. Fortunately, there are many evidence-based treatments that can make a big difference in your life. I offer online psychotherapy to teens, adults, and seniors who are seeking a path towards a better life. My practice centers on addressing depression, and bipolar disorders, anxiety and panic disorders, ADD/ADHD, women's issues, life transitions, and behavioral medicine concerns such as navigating healthcare and chronic medical conditions.
As a clinical psychologist, I understand the challenges of mental illness and the loneliness and confusion it can sometimes bring. It may be difficult to feel hopeful about getting better. Fortunately, there are many evidence-based treatments that can make a big difference in your life. I offer online psychotherapy to teens, adults, and seniors who are seeking a path towards a better life. My practice centers on addressing depression, and bipolar disorders, anxiety and panic disorders, ADD/ADHD, women's issues, life transitions, and behavioral medicine concerns such as navigating healthcare and chronic medical conditions.
![Photo of Stephanie Ortiz, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/802334ac-f429-4e6b-930b-14cdd72a2d41/3/320x400.jpeg)
Stephanie Ortiz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32216
My background specializes in suicide prevention and intervention, Anxiety Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Schizophrenia, and PTSD.
Hello, I’m Stephanie! If you’ve made it this far and it’s your first time pursuing therapy, congratulations! Deciding to begin therapy can be intimidating, but it can also be incredibly life changing. If this isn’t your first go-around, I commend you for continuing to invest in yourself and look forward to working with you in this next chapter of your journey.
My background specializes in suicide prevention and intervention, Anxiety Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Schizophrenia, and PTSD.
Hello, I’m Stephanie! If you’ve made it this far and it’s your first time pursuing therapy, congratulations! Deciding to begin therapy can be intimidating, but it can also be incredibly life changing. If this isn’t your first go-around, I commend you for continuing to invest in yourself and look forward to working with you in this next chapter of your journey.
![Photo of Cynthia Noemi Aleman, LMHC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0fa3e3f4-00fb-4040-8dc7-14fc6c739cb1/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Robyn Boone, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fc72361c-1aff-46a4-9283-2a769f3cf28a/1/320x400.png)
I have experience with addiction and recovery and a wide variety of mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and behavioral issues to name a few.
Welcome, my name is Robyn, and I have been working in mental health for 25 years helping children, individuals, families, and couples work through the challenges that come with life! Whether you are suffering from anxiety, depression, or any other mental health concern, you never have to be alone with it. I strive to support you to have build upon your own personal strengths to overcome life challenges to find happiness, joy and more fulfilling relationships.
I have experience with addiction and recovery and a wide variety of mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and behavioral issues to name a few.
Welcome, my name is Robyn, and I have been working in mental health for 25 years helping children, individuals, families, and couples work through the challenges that come with life! Whether you are suffering from anxiety, depression, or any other mental health concern, you never have to be alone with it. I strive to support you to have build upon your own personal strengths to overcome life challenges to find happiness, joy and more fulfilling relationships.
15 Second Videos
Rennie Manning
Tunisia Brina London
Eft Tapping For Trauma Amanda Mewhorter
Charlotte Osborn
Empowered Sol Wellness Center, LLC
Skylar Hollabaugh Counseling
Lori A Cowan
Kimberly Julia
Diana Cofsky
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Jacksonville
Aquarius N Cox
Lauren Renee Cunningwood
Juliet Robinson
Green Mountain DBT (Michael Nichols LICSW, LCSW)
April Howell
Jacob Hatch
Stephanie Peyton
Allison Gradzki
Julie Mergl
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Jacksonville
Philemon Ministry Of Counseling Academy
Cody McCain
Pooja Vala
Emem Williams
Every Girl Living
Kim Ehly, LCSW
Misty Williams
Christina Rawls-Dolin
Allen Shamon
Jose Cabiya
Tess Zhao
Natalie Feinblatt
Innovative Counseling
Candice Ster
Help Me to Help You Counseling LLC.
Shlomo Lawrence
Hany Urdaneta
Emerald Coast Counseling Services, LLC
James Anthony Casadia
Maya Angela Nelson
Hailey Currington
Ashley Harms
Renewing Minds Counseling & Consulting Services
Jacqueline Frey Therapy and Life Coaching
Charlie JO Therapy
Jacqueline Frey Therapist and Life Coach
Amanda L Redwine
Jacqueline Frey Therapy and Life Coaching
Kristi Gibbs
Natasha Huzevka
![Photo of Melanie Juli, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bc7747b2-2763-4c6e-b91e-fdaed36e6818/2/320x400.png)
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.
![Photo of Tara Louise McNamara, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46c69e58-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Rennie Manning, MACP, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/71d79ce4-8502-4e3d-becb-cf3174b3621d/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Dr. Julia Lockyer, PsyD, MS, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bcdd2cf4-1c49-4f88-bfd4-d9db5aacfd76/2/320x400.jpeg)
My passion is working with college students and adults with a range of concerns such as: anxiety, depression, bipolar, OCD, ADHD, general life stressors, or personal growth. I completed my APA accredited internship at University of Southern California and post-doctoral hours in private practice. I have been trained in a number of evidenced-based and research informed practices and I pull from these to inform my care.
My passion is working with college students and adults with a range of concerns such as: anxiety, depression, bipolar, OCD, ADHD, general life stressors, or personal growth. I completed my APA accredited internship at University of Southern California and post-doctoral hours in private practice. I have been trained in a number of evidenced-based and research informed practices and I pull from these to inform my care.
![Photo of Jonathan Valletta, MA, LMHC, NCC, MCAP, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4cdf566d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mr. Jonathan Valletta is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) and Masters Level Certified Addiction Professional (MCAP). He offers counseling treatment for adults and adolescents in areas such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, substance use, adjustment disorders, relationship issues, trauma, and personality traits. He applies a mindfulness approach with clients to help develop coping skills to more effectively manage stress, anger and difficulties regulating emotions.
Mr. Jonathan Valletta is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) and Masters Level Certified Addiction Professional (MCAP). He offers counseling treatment for adults and adolescents in areas such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, substance use, adjustment disorders, relationship issues, trauma, and personality traits. He applies a mindfulness approach with clients to help develop coping skills to more effectively manage stress, anger and difficulties regulating emotions.
![Photo of Nancy Becker, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/95daf310-a896-4741-8817-f630ecccaf8b/1/320x400.png)
We all have times we need to talk to someone about what is going on in our lives. That is why I am here, to offer you a way to talk about your feelings, concerns, and thoughts that can help you process in a comfortable and safe environment. I am a good listener and want to hear your personal story. In doing that, we can work together to help you achieve the balance and outcomes that you desire to live life to your fullest potential. I have experience in anxiety, depression, bipolar, Borderline Personality Disorder, Narcissist Personality Disorder and many other areas.
We all have times we need to talk to someone about what is going on in our lives. That is why I am here, to offer you a way to talk about your feelings, concerns, and thoughts that can help you process in a comfortable and safe environment. I am a good listener and want to hear your personal story. In doing that, we can work together to help you achieve the balance and outcomes that you desire to live life to your fullest potential. I have experience in anxiety, depression, bipolar, Borderline Personality Disorder, Narcissist Personality Disorder and many other areas.
![Photo of Ron Cipriano - Ron Cipriano and Associates Counseling, MS, CAP, Drug & Alcohol Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6a245d5e-78ea-431e-9412-4a892e86f32b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ron Cipriano and Associates Counseling
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MS, CAP
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32256
We also provide counseling for mental health issues such as: mood and anxiety disorders;major depression, bipolar, dual diagnosis, OCD, & PTSD.
WE ARE REALLY AT THE BEACH!!! Ron Cipriano is the Treatment Director for the Substance Abuse IOP (Intensive Outpatient Program) at the Jacksonville Beach office of Ron Cipriano and Associates Counseling. There are daytime and a night time groups available. In addition to substance abuse, alcoholism and drug addiction groups, I also have individual counseling sessions for addictions and mental health/family/marital counseling.
We also provide counseling for mental health issues such as: mood and anxiety disorders;major depression, bipolar, dual diagnosis, OCD, & PTSD.
WE ARE REALLY AT THE BEACH!!! Ron Cipriano is the Treatment Director for the Substance Abuse IOP (Intensive Outpatient Program) at the Jacksonville Beach office of Ron Cipriano and Associates Counseling. There are daytime and a night time groups available. In addition to substance abuse, alcoholism and drug addiction groups, I also have individual counseling sessions for addictions and mental health/family/marital counseling.
![Photo of Karen Klein, MS, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54ef3005-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have been a therapist for more than 25 years working with clients suffering from depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder and personality disorders. I have worked extensively with those who have issues with substance abuse, childhood sexual abuse and relationship conflicts.
I have been a therapist for more than 25 years working with clients suffering from depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder and personality disorders. I have worked extensively with those who have issues with substance abuse, childhood sexual abuse and relationship conflicts.
![Photo of Claudia S Nichols, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/02150545-ae00-44ed-8bb9-76686cbb7f8d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Claudia S Nichols
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32201 (Online Only)
My experience includes assessing and treating individuals who have struggled with anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder.
Are you someone who would like to improve your quality of life and reduce negative symptoms? You have found the right place! I am a mental health therapist who is passionate about working with clients to find a way to reduce anxiety and depression and maintain a balanced and peaceful life.
My experience includes assessing and treating individuals who have struggled with anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder.
Are you someone who would like to improve your quality of life and reduce negative symptoms? You have found the right place! I am a mental health therapist who is passionate about working with clients to find a way to reduce anxiety and depression and maintain a balanced and peaceful life.
See more therapy options for Jacksonville
Nearby Bipolar Disorder Therapists Searches for Jacksonville
- Atlantic Beach
- Callahan
- Fleming Island
- Fruit Cove
- Jacksonville Beach
- Neptune Beach
- Orange Park
- Ponte Vedra
- Ponte Vedra Beach
- Saint Johns
- Town Of Nocatee
- Yulee
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.