Bipolar Disorder Therapists in College Park, GA
![Photo of Darleen Claire Wodzenski, MA-ESE, MA-CMHC, QPPE, PhD LPC, NCC ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4afbf0e0-9ec8-49ae-a6d8-5aa41864caa8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Darleen Claire Wodzenski
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA-ESE, MA-CMHC, QPPE, PhD LPC, NCC ACS
Verified Verified
College Park, GA 30337
Our practice offers research-based holistic services to support healing from such challenges as Depression, Anxiety, Autism, Neurodiversity, Attachment Disorder, Trauma, IPV or DV, Sexual or Physical Abuse, Dissociation, Borderline Personality Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Learning & Developmental Issues & Child Protective Services, Adoption, Foster Placement.
I love children of all ages - from 0 to 99 - and I am truly here to help. Are you dealing with Relationship issues? Mental health? Learning? Development? Getting along with siblings, peers, spouse? We know that humans must learn a precise set of skills & developmental capacities to thrive. When people experience an interruption in healthy social, emotional, moral, and attachment development, serious problems can arise throughout their lives. We provide integrated support for clients of all ages in a compassionate, loving, & safe environment.
Our practice offers research-based holistic services to support healing from such challenges as Depression, Anxiety, Autism, Neurodiversity, Attachment Disorder, Trauma, IPV or DV, Sexual or Physical Abuse, Dissociation, Borderline Personality Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Learning & Developmental Issues & Child Protective Services, Adoption, Foster Placement.
I love children of all ages - from 0 to 99 - and I am truly here to help. Are you dealing with Relationship issues? Mental health? Learning? Development? Getting along with siblings, peers, spouse? We know that humans must learn a precise set of skills & developmental capacities to thrive. When people experience an interruption in healthy social, emotional, moral, and attachment development, serious problems can arise throughout their lives. We provide integrated support for clients of all ages in a compassionate, loving, & safe environment.
![Photo of Francine Bouyett, MS, LPC, NCC, CMAC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/051f03a6-c95a-4b30-aa6d-ab6542bd2741/2/320x400.png)
Francine Bouyett
Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, CMAC
Verified Verified
College Park, GA 30337 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
It can be difficult to open up and talk about your life stressors to someone you don’t know. Sometimes we can feel unheard or alone and just need someone who can be a helping, nonjudgmental, and listening ear. The hardest part can be finding the words to express ourselves and process what can feel like a jumbled mess and you just need someone to help put the scattered puzzle pieces together to create a beautiful picture. Aristotle said it best, “Knowing yourself is the beginning of all wisdom.” I can help with building coping skills, work on effective communication, self-expression, processing trauma/grief, and mindfulness.
It can be difficult to open up and talk about your life stressors to someone you don’t know. Sometimes we can feel unheard or alone and just need someone who can be a helping, nonjudgmental, and listening ear. The hardest part can be finding the words to express ourselves and process what can feel like a jumbled mess and you just need someone to help put the scattered puzzle pieces together to create a beautiful picture. Aristotle said it best, “Knowing yourself is the beginning of all wisdom.” I can help with building coping skills, work on effective communication, self-expression, processing trauma/grief, and mindfulness.
![Photo of Nak Union Behavioral Health - Nak Union Behavioral Health, MSW, LCSW, MAC, DR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bfae38bb-ec49-4d53-b93b-dc689e56af5a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nak Union Behavioral Health
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, MAC, DR
Verified Verified
College Park, GA 30349
Often when people are faced with life's challenges, they do not realize how strong they can be. We work with Children, Families and Adults who find they are struggling with chronic mental health illness, substance recovery, divorce, loss, grief or trauma. Transitions can be difficult but they can also lead us to new emotional growth. Our strength-based approach will help you heal emotionally and find your inner resiliency.
Often when people are faced with life's challenges, they do not realize how strong they can be. We work with Children, Families and Adults who find they are struggling with chronic mental health illness, substance recovery, divorce, loss, grief or trauma. Transitions can be difficult but they can also lead us to new emotional growth. Our strength-based approach will help you heal emotionally and find your inner resiliency.
![Photo of Carlton W Mitchell, MBA, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/542ca916-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Carlton W Mitchell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MBA, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
College Park, GA 30337
In my practice, I have the opportunity to help many clients with a variety of needs. I have worked with people as young as nine and have been fortunate enough to work with couples well into their fifties and individuals in their seventies. My clients have had concerns ranging from learning how to better function in relationships to recovering from trauma. My goal is always to move people to a place where they become equipped to better deal with life's struggles by equipping them with skills needed to face challenges.
In my practice, I have the opportunity to help many clients with a variety of needs. I have worked with people as young as nine and have been fortunate enough to work with couples well into their fifties and individuals in their seventies. My clients have had concerns ranging from learning how to better function in relationships to recovering from trauma. My goal is always to move people to a place where they become equipped to better deal with life's struggles by equipping them with skills needed to face challenges.
![Photo of Leslie Perez - Lifebulb Counseling & Therapy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6056e679-63dd-4982-b5b1-dd60b327c968/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lifebulb Counseling & Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
College Park, GA 30337
Working with us you'll get results. Because we believe you're best served by a clinician who's passionate about not only their work, but who they work with as well. That's why we started Lifebulb - We're committed to building an organization that truly allows therapists to get back to enjoying their work, so you, our client, can receive the highest quality therapy services, whether in person at one of our locations or online through telehealth. We hire only highly trained and educated, licensed clinicians dedicated to the therapy process. We're confident we can help you achieve your therapy goals.
Working with us you'll get results. Because we believe you're best served by a clinician who's passionate about not only their work, but who they work with as well. That's why we started Lifebulb - We're committed to building an organization that truly allows therapists to get back to enjoying their work, so you, our client, can receive the highest quality therapy services, whether in person at one of our locations or online through telehealth. We hire only highly trained and educated, licensed clinicians dedicated to the therapy process. We're confident we can help you achieve your therapy goals.
![Photo of Dr. Darleen Claire Wodzenski - Orchard Human Services, Inc, MS ESE, MA CMHC, PhD, NCC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dd9b3981-07ad-400e-95f3-c1e1ec03dba9/3/320x400.png)
Orchard Human Services, Inc
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS ESE, MA CMHC, PhD, NCC, ACS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
College Park, GA 30337
Our ideal client wants to make life better ... and sees the possibility of a better way of living for the self, child, family, relationship, education, wellbeing ... and is looking for specialized and focused support to create a better reality. Our ideal client KNOWS that healing is possible and that they deserve compassion and support to work through some of life's most difficult challenges.
Our ideal client wants to make life better ... and sees the possibility of a better way of living for the self, child, family, relationship, education, wellbeing ... and is looking for specialized and focused support to create a better reality. Our ideal client KNOWS that healing is possible and that they deserve compassion and support to work through some of life's most difficult challenges.
![Photo of Kanika Bell, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fca26967-239d-4d2b-b357-45fbb6e43911/1/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in an eclectic mix of cognitive behavioral therapy & insight-oriented therapy geared toward helping clients discover answers & take control of their lives. I specialize in women's issues but also treat youth with attachment, abuse, identity & oppositional behavior problems; adults with occupational & relationship stress & chronic medical problems; & older adults confronting life's changes. I enjoy helping couples function most optimally and provide evaluations related to ADHD, bariatric surgery & organ transplant hopefuls, parental fitness, psychosexual issues, vocational & career exploration, & general intellectual, academic & personality testing.
I specialize in an eclectic mix of cognitive behavioral therapy & insight-oriented therapy geared toward helping clients discover answers & take control of their lives. I specialize in women's issues but also treat youth with attachment, abuse, identity & oppositional behavior problems; adults with occupational & relationship stress & chronic medical problems; & older adults confronting life's changes. I enjoy helping couples function most optimally and provide evaluations related to ADHD, bariatric surgery & organ transplant hopefuls, parental fitness, psychosexual issues, vocational & career exploration, & general intellectual, academic & personality testing.
![Photo of Johanna Elizabeth Harris - Asikari Perfect Impact, LLC., MA, LPC, CPCS, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40b78122-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Asikari Perfect Impact, LLC.
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
College Park, GA 30349
I work with individuals and families who are suffering from emotional, behavioral, relationship, and trauma issues My visions is by providing clients with a safe environment, where they are able to begin to express themselves without judgment. I encourage my clients to feel free to bring any thought feeling and concern to the partnership.
I work with individuals and families who are suffering from emotional, behavioral, relationship, and trauma issues My visions is by providing clients with a safe environment, where they are able to begin to express themselves without judgment. I encourage my clients to feel free to bring any thought feeling and concern to the partnership.
![Photo of Abeke Baker - All 1 Family, Inc (LGBTQ Affirming Clinic), LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/70e67687-45a7-4e83-85fa-3d20bc469372/2/320x400.jpeg)
All 1 Family, Inc (LGBTQ Affirming Clinic)
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
College Park, GA 30349
Everyone deserves a safe space. Our aim at All-1-Family is to provide a safe space for all persons, but in particular, LGBT+ identified persons in the Atlanta metro area to simply, be.
Everyone deserves a safe space. Our aim at All-1-Family is to provide a safe space for all persons, but in particular, LGBT+ identified persons in the Atlanta metro area to simply, be.
![Photo of Wanda S Cager, MS, LPC, NCC, CPCS, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4030a955-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Wanda S Cager
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, CPCS
Verified Verified
College Park, GA 30349
Hello, I am Wanda S. Cager, a Licensed Professional Counselor and a National Board Certified Counselor. I accomplished my academic goals; while attending Mercer University. There are many reasons individuals, couples and families seek counseling. Perhaps you are having a difficult time with depression, anxiety, children behavioral issues, family conflict, couples conflict, sexual identity, grief, divorce, or suicidal thoughts. Well, I am here to offer you and/or your family professional counseling to assist you address your concerns and obtain your goals.
Hello, I am Wanda S. Cager, a Licensed Professional Counselor and a National Board Certified Counselor. I accomplished my academic goals; while attending Mercer University. There are many reasons individuals, couples and families seek counseling. Perhaps you are having a difficult time with depression, anxiety, children behavioral issues, family conflict, couples conflict, sexual identity, grief, divorce, or suicidal thoughts. Well, I am here to offer you and/or your family professional counseling to assist you address your concerns and obtain your goals.
![Photo of Stephanie Westbrook - Lotus Center for Counseling, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3969bb18-15e0-44c3-892e-e9417b0e513b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lotus Center for Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
College Park, GA 30349 (Online Only)
Have you been meeting your goals and achieving success, but still feel unhappy and dissatisfied? Do you often feel as though you are just going through life but are not truly present savoring the day? Are you spending too much time scrolling on social media watching people’s lives opposed to living your own? Is today the day you take the first step towards getting “unstuck” and out of this rut? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you are in the right place! We can help you move out of the mud and into the sunshine! You were born to thrive and enjoy life. Pain is inevitable, but suffering is optional.
Have you been meeting your goals and achieving success, but still feel unhappy and dissatisfied? Do you often feel as though you are just going through life but are not truly present savoring the day? Are you spending too much time scrolling on social media watching people’s lives opposed to living your own? Is today the day you take the first step towards getting “unstuck” and out of this rut? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you are in the right place! We can help you move out of the mud and into the sunshine! You were born to thrive and enjoy life. Pain is inevitable, but suffering is optional.
15 Second Videos
Darleen Claire Wodzenski
Carlton W Mitchell
Orchard Human Services, Inc
All 1 Family, Inc (LGBTQ Affirming Clinic)
Pamala T Love
![Photo of Solomon Berewa, LPC, MAC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0a3d392a-0ed5-4ff4-ad62-1a4654ec69cf/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you having problems at work, school or in your family? Sometimes these situations are caused by internal or external circumstances. I believe that individuals can overcome the circumstances that have caused problems in their lives. My role in therapy is to assist you gain more insight about the problems or the circumstances that resulted in you seeking therapy. I create an environment to allow you to resolve the underlying issues, and to enable you to overcome the problems/situations that resulted in you seeking therapy. I am available for Telehealth and in person sessions
Are you having problems at work, school or in your family? Sometimes these situations are caused by internal or external circumstances. I believe that individuals can overcome the circumstances that have caused problems in their lives. My role in therapy is to assist you gain more insight about the problems or the circumstances that resulted in you seeking therapy. I create an environment to allow you to resolve the underlying issues, and to enable you to overcome the problems/situations that resulted in you seeking therapy. I am available for Telehealth and in person sessions
![Photo of Leigh D Bennett, MS, APC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/64a1e4ca-345d-4418-b79e-102c423979fd/2/320x400.jpeg)
Leigh D Bennett
Counselor, MS, APC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
College Park, GA 30349 (Online Only)
I appreciate working with individuals of all ages and backgrounds. I use an eclectic approach that tailors the therapeutic process to the unique needs of each client. I have experience treating adolescents, teens, and adults that are facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, suicidal ideation, life transitions and self-esteem.
I appreciate working with individuals of all ages and backgrounds. I use an eclectic approach that tailors the therapeutic process to the unique needs of each client. I have experience treating adolescents, teens, and adults that are facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, suicidal ideation, life transitions and self-esteem.
![Photo of Jacye Johnson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9fe738ab-7da0-457e-9332-8ebedadef758/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jacye Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
College Park, GA 30349 (Online Only)
I am a caring and compassionate clinical social worker with 20 + years of experience serving children, adolescents, and adults. When people experience significant life stressors or trauma, their lives often begin to unravel, and they find it difficult to function. I specialize in working with individuals struggling with the daily stressors of life, depression, anxiety, and trauma. I’m also passionate about working to improve the social and emotional development of young people, and often work with parents who need support in managing their children’s challenging behaviors.
I am a caring and compassionate clinical social worker with 20 + years of experience serving children, adolescents, and adults. When people experience significant life stressors or trauma, their lives often begin to unravel, and they find it difficult to function. I specialize in working with individuals struggling with the daily stressors of life, depression, anxiety, and trauma. I’m also passionate about working to improve the social and emotional development of young people, and often work with parents who need support in managing their children’s challenging behaviors.
![Photo of Deon L Sanders - Seek Wise Counsel , MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b24a3dba-1279-40ff-bccd-527c79b9f0b1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Seek Wise Counsel
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
College Park, GA 30349
My name is Deon L Sanders and I am the Ower/CEO of Seek Wise Counsel. I and my staff, specialize in African American psychology, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Existential, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Schema Therapy, Gestalt, Trauma Focused CBT and IFS. My specific training/education in African American Psychology has provided me knowledge and a deeper subconscious understanding of how the residual effects of slavery, and religious trauma hinders our people. We have both Male and Female therapist on staff. To see staff bios and to book free consultations please visit our website seekwisecounseling.com
My name is Deon L Sanders and I am the Ower/CEO of Seek Wise Counsel. I and my staff, specialize in African American psychology, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Existential, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Schema Therapy, Gestalt, Trauma Focused CBT and IFS. My specific training/education in African American Psychology has provided me knowledge and a deeper subconscious understanding of how the residual effects of slavery, and religious trauma hinders our people. We have both Male and Female therapist on staff. To see staff bios and to book free consultations please visit our website seekwisecounseling.com
![Photo of Felicia Zachery, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1dca0b46-396f-4d50-8bca-d83700a38d1b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Felicia Zachery
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
College Park, GA 30349 (Online Only)
Hello! I help women, professionals, entertainers, veterans, and their families. Do you check one of these boxes? Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed? Have you experienced trauma, family discord, or a major life change? Do you lack self-confidence? Do you struggle to communicate in relationships? Are you experiencing career concerns? Have you been neglecting your activities of daily living? Do you feel unheard or unseen? Do you feel present but alone? I know you may be struggling but you do not have to suffer alone. I am here to journey alongside you! I will help you navigate a plan to enhance your quality of life.
Hello! I help women, professionals, entertainers, veterans, and their families. Do you check one of these boxes? Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed? Have you experienced trauma, family discord, or a major life change? Do you lack self-confidence? Do you struggle to communicate in relationships? Are you experiencing career concerns? Have you been neglecting your activities of daily living? Do you feel unheard or unseen? Do you feel present but alone? I know you may be struggling but you do not have to suffer alone. I am here to journey alongside you! I will help you navigate a plan to enhance your quality of life.
![Photo of Pamala T Love, PhD, LCSW, TF-CBT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fedb8759-82b7-4510-9b38-d81a6f53bfd6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Pamala T Love
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, TF-CBT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
College Park, GA 30337 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Research shows the benefits of therapy last longer than medication alone. People struggling with emotional difficulties, life challenges, and mental health concerns should look for a counselor or therapist to help them. Let's talk and see if I am a good fit for you. Locate my appointment calendars by going straight to https://headway.co/providers/pamala-love?fbclid=IwAR2wMrsWuYS7w2mMXE-dK5Q76ZKhGFH7Zdkw1hecNaX3ndL59eGQWo8QFi8 for NC and https://www.pathmentalhealth.com/providers/GA/1396892055-pamala-love for GA.
Research shows the benefits of therapy last longer than medication alone. People struggling with emotional difficulties, life challenges, and mental health concerns should look for a counselor or therapist to help them. Let's talk and see if I am a good fit for you. Locate my appointment calendars by going straight to https://headway.co/providers/pamala-love?fbclid=IwAR2wMrsWuYS7w2mMXE-dK5Q76ZKhGFH7Zdkw1hecNaX3ndL59eGQWo8QFi8 for NC and https://www.pathmentalhealth.com/providers/GA/1396892055-pamala-love for GA.
![Photo of Gabriella M Thompson - Creating Links Consultants, MSEdS, LPC, CPCS, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e3d01e5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Creating Links Consultants
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEdS, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
College Park, GA 30349
Not accepting new clients
It is my experience and belief children and their families desire a loving bond and connection despite the life obstacles they may endure. My techniques and interventions provide reassurance, support, guidance and insight through cognitive behavioral, behavioral modification,play therapy and trainings.My entire professional career, over 15 years, has involved working with children and their families dealing with crises and/or temporary concerns. I have experiences in settings such as daycares, emergency shelters, residential facilities, mental health outpatient clinics, and foster homes. I work in tandem with pediatricians, psychologists, psychiatrists, and teachers to ensure the best effective treatment for my young clients.
It is my experience and belief children and their families desire a loving bond and connection despite the life obstacles they may endure. My techniques and interventions provide reassurance, support, guidance and insight through cognitive behavioral, behavioral modification,play therapy and trainings.My entire professional career, over 15 years, has involved working with children and their families dealing with crises and/or temporary concerns. I have experiences in settings such as daycares, emergency shelters, residential facilities, mental health outpatient clinics, and foster homes. I work in tandem with pediatricians, psychologists, psychiatrists, and teachers to ensure the best effective treatment for my young clients.
![Photo of Pamela D. Johnson, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44b6dbec-988e-4501-bc7f-43e8ea973c8f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Pamela D. Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
College Park, GA 30349
Not accepting new clients
My mission is to help you obtain the essential skills necessary to grow and reach your full potential. We all experience challenges in life and they can be very overwhelming. I can relate as I have experienced my own struggles. I am here to walk you through your difficult times in life and I will provide you with very effective tools to help cope with life's difficulties. I specialize in and focus on adolescent, teens, young adults, and parenting counseling.
My mission is to help you obtain the essential skills necessary to grow and reach your full potential. We all experience challenges in life and they can be very overwhelming. I can relate as I have experienced my own struggles. I am here to walk you through your difficult times in life and I will provide you with very effective tools to help cope with life's difficulties. I specialize in and focus on adolescent, teens, young adults, and parenting counseling.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Tiffany Scott, LPC, MAC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ec50d73c-2527-45f8-83ac-142f7df93b1e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Tiffany Scott
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MAC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30349 (Online Only)
I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, bipolar, schizophrenia, grief/loss, relationship issues, co-ocurring disorders, and addiction.
Have you been experiencing anxiety and depression related to heartbreak, financial difficulties, or loss of a loved one? Have you been feeling stressed and not like yourself lately? I can help you address these issues. I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC) and master addiction counselor (MAC) in Georgia and NJ. I have over a decade of experience providing counseling services. I believe in treating anyone with respect and compassion. I provide an open and honest environment.
I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, bipolar, schizophrenia, grief/loss, relationship issues, co-ocurring disorders, and addiction.
Have you been experiencing anxiety and depression related to heartbreak, financial difficulties, or loss of a loved one? Have you been feeling stressed and not like yourself lately? I can help you address these issues. I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC) and master addiction counselor (MAC) in Georgia and NJ. I have over a decade of experience providing counseling services. I believe in treating anyone with respect and compassion. I provide an open and honest environment.
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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.