Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Decatur, GA

Photo of Teri Sivilli, MPH, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Teri Sivilli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MPH, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30030
My focus areas are: Trauma • Bipolar Disorder • PTSD • Anxiety & Depression • Chronic illness • DID • Addiction • Psychedelic Preparation and Integration • Psychedelic Harm Reduction.
I am passionate about helping people find meaning and purpose in their lives, and helping them identify ways that conscious and unconscious traits and habits impact functioning and relationships. By exploring how you relate to yourself and to the world around you, you can build a life that is informed by past experience, not trapped by it. As a trained meditation teacher I integrate mindfulness and other meditation techniques where appropriate. My trauma work is integrative. While I do not condone the use of controlled substances, I endorse harm reduction practices and enjoy working with psychedelic preparation and integration.
My focus areas are: Trauma • Bipolar Disorder • PTSD • Anxiety & Depression • Chronic illness • DID • Addiction • Psychedelic Preparation and Integration • Psychedelic Harm Reduction.
I am passionate about helping people find meaning and purpose in their lives, and helping them identify ways that conscious and unconscious traits and habits impact functioning and relationships. By exploring how you relate to yourself and to the world around you, you can build a life that is informed by past experience, not trapped by it. As a trained meditation teacher I integrate mindfulness and other meditation techniques where appropriate. My trauma work is integrative. While I do not condone the use of controlled substances, I endorse harm reduction practices and enjoy working with psychedelic preparation and integration.
(404) 495-8573 View (404) 495-8573
Photo of Brenda Hailey, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Brenda Hailey
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30030
Brenda Hailey, Therapist Brenda Hailey obtained her master's degree from Mercer University in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Her previous experience includes working at Metro Atlanta Recovery Residences. Brenda sees adolescents and adults individually as well as groups. She enjoys working with a wide range of behavioral health issues including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders, and substance use disorders.
Brenda Hailey, Therapist Brenda Hailey obtained her master's degree from Mercer University in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Her previous experience includes working at Metro Atlanta Recovery Residences. Brenda sees adolescents and adults individually as well as groups. She enjoys working with a wide range of behavioral health issues including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders, and substance use disorders.
(470) 946-6577 View (470) 946-6577
Photo of Trakeeta Patterson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Trakeeta Patterson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30034
Has stress, anxiety, depression or anger been problematic for you? Has your ability to cope affected your daily living and/or relationships? Have you been diagnosed with bipolar schizophrenia or any other illness and has had difficulty accepting and managing your symptoms? Untreated mental illness can easily affect your health and well-being and often cause strain on important relationships. Help is out there! Get ready to live a more healthy and productive life!
Has stress, anxiety, depression or anger been problematic for you? Has your ability to cope affected your daily living and/or relationships? Have you been diagnosed with bipolar schizophrenia or any other illness and has had difficulty accepting and managing your symptoms? Untreated mental illness can easily affect your health and well-being and often cause strain on important relationships. Help is out there! Get ready to live a more healthy and productive life!
(404) 777-4478 View (404) 777-4478
Photo of Sydney Calloway, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Sydney Calloway
Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30030
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a National Certified Counselor. I graduated from Mercer University with a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. After 5 years of working in community mental health both at the inpatient and outpatient levels I have gained invaluable experience working with individuals from multicultural backgrounds. My experience includes treating individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, grief, postpartum, racial issues, substance abuse, and more.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a National Certified Counselor. I graduated from Mercer University with a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. After 5 years of working in community mental health both at the inpatient and outpatient levels I have gained invaluable experience working with individuals from multicultural backgrounds. My experience includes treating individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, grief, postpartum, racial issues, substance abuse, and more.
(404) 948-3194 View (404) 948-3194
Photo of Suwanne Sancko, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Suwanne Sancko
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30034  (Online Only)
She has comprehensive experience with assessing and counseling adolescents and adults with co-occurring disorders such as depression, anxiety, anger management, work issues, stress, bipolar disorder, etc.
Suwanne is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Georgia. In addition, she is a Certified Master Addiction Counselor. She holds a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Argosy University. She obtained her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Sociology and Women Studies from the State University of New York at Albany. Suwanne trained at an inpatient psychiatric hospital and substance abuse treatment facility.
She has comprehensive experience with assessing and counseling adolescents and adults with co-occurring disorders such as depression, anxiety, anger management, work issues, stress, bipolar disorder, etc.
Suwanne is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Georgia. In addition, she is a Certified Master Addiction Counselor. She holds a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Argosy University. She obtained her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Sociology and Women Studies from the State University of New York at Albany. Suwanne trained at an inpatient psychiatric hospital and substance abuse treatment facility.
(470) 250-3222 View (470) 250-3222
Photo of Colleen Dougherty, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Colleen Dougherty
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30030
As a therapist, I hope to provide my clients with a place where they feel seen, heard and understood. My ultimate goal is to help others navigate the challenges of life and work towards helping them to achieve their best possible quality of life. I use an integrative approach, tailoring interventions towards the needs of each individual I work with. After being in the mental health field for over 25 years, I have experience in treating trauma, ADHD, depression, anxiety, panic disorder, bipolar disorder, self harming behavior, grief and adjustment to life transitions. I enjoy working with diverse clients ranging in age from 15 to 80.
As a therapist, I hope to provide my clients with a place where they feel seen, heard and understood. My ultimate goal is to help others navigate the challenges of life and work towards helping them to achieve their best possible quality of life. I use an integrative approach, tailoring interventions towards the needs of each individual I work with. After being in the mental health field for over 25 years, I have experience in treating trauma, ADHD, depression, anxiety, panic disorder, bipolar disorder, self harming behavior, grief and adjustment to life transitions. I enjoy working with diverse clients ranging in age from 15 to 80.
(404) 383-8816 View (404) 383-8816
Photo of Dr. Tonya Sumner Brown Queen Of Hearts, PsyD, MDiv, LPC, CPCS, DVISII, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Tonya Sumner Brown Queen Of Hearts
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, MDiv, LPC, CPCS, DVISII
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30034
As a Nationally Certified Counselor, Licensed Professional Counselor, Licensed Professional Christian Therapist, Certified Anger Management Specialist, Domestic Violence Intervention Specialist II, Certified Nurturing Programs, I specialize in Conduct/ Oppositional Defiant Disorders, ADHD, PTSD, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, Drug and Alcohol, HIV/AIDS, Cancer and Bereavement.
I have 32 years of counseling experience. I blend Spiritual (when requested) and Clinical Counseling. Many spiritual people across America are confused about where to go for counseling. My husband of 30 years and I have traveled the world with many religions. I have 2 Bachelors, 2 Master of Divinity Degrees, a Post-Masters in Hospital & Hospice Chaplaincy, and a PsyD. in Psychology. I was a Chaplain intern, resident or taught religious programs at many Atlanta hospitals. I am a HIV/AIDS, cancer and bereavement specialist. I bring a multiplicity of clinical specialties and counseling modalities to my clients from 2 and up.
As a Nationally Certified Counselor, Licensed Professional Counselor, Licensed Professional Christian Therapist, Certified Anger Management Specialist, Domestic Violence Intervention Specialist II, Certified Nurturing Programs, I specialize in Conduct/ Oppositional Defiant Disorders, ADHD, PTSD, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, Drug and Alcohol, HIV/AIDS, Cancer and Bereavement.
I have 32 years of counseling experience. I blend Spiritual (when requested) and Clinical Counseling. Many spiritual people across America are confused about where to go for counseling. My husband of 30 years and I have traveled the world with many religions. I have 2 Bachelors, 2 Master of Divinity Degrees, a Post-Masters in Hospital & Hospice Chaplaincy, and a PsyD. in Psychology. I was a Chaplain intern, resident or taught religious programs at many Atlanta hospitals. I am a HIV/AIDS, cancer and bereavement specialist. I bring a multiplicity of clinical specialties and counseling modalities to my clients from 2 and up.
(404) 800-3044 View (404) 800-3044
Photo of Kelli C McLeod-Roy, LPC, NCC, CPCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kelli C McLeod-Roy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CPCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30033
Waitlist for new clients
, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorders), Young adult issues, Couples' Issues, Family Issues, LGBT Issues, and Poly Issues.
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, general sense of emptiness or dissatisfaction? Are you and your partner not getting along as well as you would like? Are you having problems with alcohol or other substances? If so, let's set up some counseling for you to help decrease the negative and increase the positive in your life. My approach is empathic and caring and of a cognitive behavioral orientation. I will help you identify and develop the skills and insights you need to experience success over your problems and to have more satisfaction in your life and relationships.
, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorders), Young adult issues, Couples' Issues, Family Issues, LGBT Issues, and Poly Issues.
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, general sense of emptiness or dissatisfaction? Are you and your partner not getting along as well as you would like? Are you having problems with alcohol or other substances? If so, let's set up some counseling for you to help decrease the negative and increase the positive in your life. My approach is empathic and caring and of a cognitive behavioral orientation. I will help you identify and develop the skills and insights you need to experience success over your problems and to have more satisfaction in your life and relationships.
(678) 329-8483 View (678) 329-8483
Photo of Huei Chen Cheng, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Huei Chen Cheng
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30034
I am passionate to serve teens, kids, adults from age 5 to 70 who like to learn how to better manage emotions such as depression, anxiety, anger, ADHD, Bipolar, Trauma,Grief, Loss, Dissociation as well as improve communication and relationship between family for parents/children and couples to create abundant life. I have empowered many women men children teens and elderly to live a better life.
I am passionate to serve teens, kids, adults from age 5 to 70 who like to learn how to better manage emotions such as depression, anxiety, anger, ADHD, Bipolar, Trauma,Grief, Loss, Dissociation as well as improve communication and relationship between family for parents/children and couples to create abundant life. I have empowered many women men children teens and elderly to live a better life.
(404) 999-1842 View (404) 999-1842
Photo of Kelly Dahlke, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelly Dahlke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30035
Welcome! My name is Kelly Dahlke. I am a licensed clinical social worker in the state of Georgia. I am a client centered therapist who works with clients who are dealing with life transitions, grief and loss, and who may benefit from direction and help outside of their circle of family and friends. I work with clients dealing with a number of disorders, including anxiety and depression, trauma, substance abuse issues, and bipolar disorder.
Welcome! My name is Kelly Dahlke. I am a licensed clinical social worker in the state of Georgia. I am a client centered therapist who works with clients who are dealing with life transitions, grief and loss, and who may benefit from direction and help outside of their circle of family and friends. I work with clients dealing with a number of disorders, including anxiety and depression, trauma, substance abuse issues, and bipolar disorder.
(404) 998-4784 View (404) 998-4784
Photo of Pat Drerup-Cotter - Pat Drerup-Cotter, M.S., Ed.S., LPC, NCC, MS, EdS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Pat Drerup-Cotter, M.S., Ed.S.
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MS, EdS
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30033
She works with mood disorders including Bipolar Disorder and Major Depressive Disorders.
Therapy is a process that can be an extremely rewarding journey in your life. We currently live in an anxiety-producing society and it’s easy to forget that our purpose is a path of self-actualization, or to be our best selves.
She works with mood disorders including Bipolar Disorder and Major Depressive Disorders.
Therapy is a process that can be an extremely rewarding journey in your life. We currently live in an anxiety-producing society and it’s easy to forget that our purpose is a path of self-actualization, or to be our best selves.
(404) 402-2176 View (404) 402-2176
Photo of Ngoneh Bullard - BetterSelf, LLC, LICSW, LCSW, MAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
BetterSelf, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW, MAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30031
Waitlist for new clients
At BetterSelf, LLC, I offer compassionate support for postpartum depression, anxiety, stress, obesity, relationship/divorce adjustment, bipolar disorder, trauma, PTSD, substance use disorders, self-esteem, women's issues, parenting, and veterans' issues.
As an LCSW, I'm dedicated to helping clients navigate life's stressors, including postpartum periods and common mental health issues. My unique perspective as an African American therapist allows me to specialize in serving Aferican American men and women, particularly men, ensuring meaningful therapeutic connections. Through flexible sessions, we set goals and manage symptoms. I believe in therapy's transformative power and help clients tap into inner strength and personal growth. As a self-pay practice, I guarantee utmost privacy and respect.
At BetterSelf, LLC, I offer compassionate support for postpartum depression, anxiety, stress, obesity, relationship/divorce adjustment, bipolar disorder, trauma, PTSD, substance use disorders, self-esteem, women's issues, parenting, and veterans' issues.
As an LCSW, I'm dedicated to helping clients navigate life's stressors, including postpartum periods and common mental health issues. My unique perspective as an African American therapist allows me to specialize in serving Aferican American men and women, particularly men, ensuring meaningful therapeutic connections. Through flexible sessions, we set goals and manage symptoms. I believe in therapy's transformative power and help clients tap into inner strength and personal growth. As a self-pay practice, I guarantee utmost privacy and respect.
(404) 923-8360 View (404) 923-8360
Photo of Hannah Boos, MA, LPC, NCC, CPTT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Hannah Boos
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, CPTT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30033
With the hope of supporting those navigating challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem, identity development, life transitions, bipolar disorder, spirituality, deconstruction/reconstruction, and healing from infidelity and sexual betrayal.
Hi and thank you for visiting my profile. Your decision to explore counseling reflects courage and vulnerability, and I'm honored you're here. I'm dedicated to supporting individuals (16+) facing challenges like anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem, identity development, life transitions, and spirituality. Additionally, I'm passionate about aiding those recovering from infidelity and sexual betrayal. My primary aim is to create a safe, non-judgmental space where your healing journey can begin, fostering progress and personal growth. Let's embark on this transformative journey together!
With the hope of supporting those navigating challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem, identity development, life transitions, bipolar disorder, spirituality, deconstruction/reconstruction, and healing from infidelity and sexual betrayal.
Hi and thank you for visiting my profile. Your decision to explore counseling reflects courage and vulnerability, and I'm honored you're here. I'm dedicated to supporting individuals (16+) facing challenges like anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem, identity development, life transitions, and spirituality. Additionally, I'm passionate about aiding those recovering from infidelity and sexual betrayal. My primary aim is to create a safe, non-judgmental space where your healing journey can begin, fostering progress and personal growth. Let's embark on this transformative journey together!
(404) 390-4987 View (404) 390-4987
Photo of Nathan Mascaro, PhD, ABPP, Psychologist
Nathan Mascaro
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30030
I am an ABPP certified psychologist providing evidence-based psychotherapy to people ages 17+. Having practiced in Georgia since 2007 when I completed my postdoctoral fellowship in Clinical Psychology at Emory University, I've worked in private practice and hospital settings for 15+ years treating depression, anxiety (including OCD, panic, phobias, and chronic worry/GAD), PTSD and other trauma or grief related issues, bipolar disorder, insomnia, and issues related to meaning/purpose and existential distress. I work with individuals from late adolescence through older adulthood across the continua of gender, ethnicity, and faith.
I am an ABPP certified psychologist providing evidence-based psychotherapy to people ages 17+. Having practiced in Georgia since 2007 when I completed my postdoctoral fellowship in Clinical Psychology at Emory University, I've worked in private practice and hospital settings for 15+ years treating depression, anxiety (including OCD, panic, phobias, and chronic worry/GAD), PTSD and other trauma or grief related issues, bipolar disorder, insomnia, and issues related to meaning/purpose and existential distress. I work with individuals from late adolescence through older adulthood across the continua of gender, ethnicity, and faith.
(404) 390-4843 View (404) 390-4843
Photo of Jasmine Culberson, LPC, NCC, C-DBT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jasmine Culberson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, C-DBT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30030  (Online Only)
Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Trauma, Mood Disorders, and ADHD are just a few of the areas I can be of assistance.
I may be a counselor but I'm always Jasmine. I bring my authentic self to each session so my clients can feel safe to do the same. I strive to meet my clients where they are and assist them in gaining the tools they need to accomplish whatever goals they have set for themselves and become the version of themselves they desire. I don't believe in the "one size fits all" method and truly tailor not only my approach for that client based on their needs but also each session. I'd be honored to assist anyone in the journey with mental health wellness. Who said games are for kids?Therapy Uno anyone?
Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Trauma, Mood Disorders, and ADHD are just a few of the areas I can be of assistance.
I may be a counselor but I'm always Jasmine. I bring my authentic self to each session so my clients can feel safe to do the same. I strive to meet my clients where they are and assist them in gaining the tools they need to accomplish whatever goals they have set for themselves and become the version of themselves they desire. I don't believe in the "one size fits all" method and truly tailor not only my approach for that client based on their needs but also each session. I'd be honored to assist anyone in the journey with mental health wellness. Who said games are for kids?Therapy Uno anyone?
(678) 203-3682 View (678) 203-3682
Photo of Amber Griffin, LMSW, CA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amber Griffin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30030
Her clinical expertise encompasses a wide range of mental health and wellness areas including but not limited to C-PTSD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, sexual exploitation and abuse, adjustment disorder, self-harm and suicidal ideations, trauma, adulthood ADHD, gender dysphoria, and intermittent explosive disorder.
Amber is a Licensed Master Social Worker with over seven years of clinical experience. Amber is steadfastly committed to fostering the holistic well-being of individuals, families, and communities. Amber is driven by a desire to empower individuals to unlock their inherent potential and live fulfilling lives.
Her clinical expertise encompasses a wide range of mental health and wellness areas including but not limited to C-PTSD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, sexual exploitation and abuse, adjustment disorder, self-harm and suicidal ideations, trauma, adulthood ADHD, gender dysphoria, and intermittent explosive disorder.
Amber is a Licensed Master Social Worker with over seven years of clinical experience. Amber is steadfastly committed to fostering the holistic well-being of individuals, families, and communities. Amber is driven by a desire to empower individuals to unlock their inherent potential and live fulfilling lives.
(516) 884-9977 View (516) 884-9977
Photo of Zenitra Williams, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Zenitra Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30030  (Online Only)
I am originally from Delaware, I received my undergraduate degree in Psychology from Wilmington University. I went on to receive my Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health from Mercer University, in Atlanta, GA. My background includes working at Emory Wesley Woods inpatient psychiatric hospital, Transitions Behavioral Health Intensive Outpatient (IOP) and Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP), was well as Twin Lakes Drug Rehabilitation center.
I am originally from Delaware, I received my undergraduate degree in Psychology from Wilmington University. I went on to receive my Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health from Mercer University, in Atlanta, GA. My background includes working at Emory Wesley Woods inpatient psychiatric hospital, Transitions Behavioral Health Intensive Outpatient (IOP) and Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP), was well as Twin Lakes Drug Rehabilitation center.
(470) 664-4364 View (470) 664-4364
Photo of Austin Hunter, MA CMHC, LPC, Counselor
Austin Hunter
Counselor, MA CMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30030
Anxious, stuck, depressed, afraid. These words may be a few you use to describe your life, keeping you from living the way you want to live. I’m here to help you make sense of your struggles, build your strengths, and find peace in the midst of it all. My counseling practice is approachable and comfortable for people who have never seen a counselor before and those seeking a different therapy experience. Knowing where and how to begin might feel difficult for you, which is why we'll use the well-researched and evidence driven approach of ACT to guide us every step of the way.
Anxious, stuck, depressed, afraid. These words may be a few you use to describe your life, keeping you from living the way you want to live. I’m here to help you make sense of your struggles, build your strengths, and find peace in the midst of it all. My counseling practice is approachable and comfortable for people who have never seen a counselor before and those seeking a different therapy experience. Knowing where and how to begin might feel difficult for you, which is why we'll use the well-researched and evidence driven approach of ACT to guide us every step of the way.
(404) 924-6632 View (404) 924-6632
Photo of Sally Hildreth, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sally Hildreth
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30030
You're feeling disconnected, like life as you're living it has lost purpose and meaning. It's even hard to name the exact discomfort and pain. Life might look successful on the surface, but you know something feels off. Depressed, anxious, or going through normal turmoil during unprecedented collective change? You just know the way you move through the world isn't working anymore. You're ready to reconnect with who you know yourself to be. Together, we'll listen deeply to what eludes you. Making space for life—as it is in the here and now—opens a door toward a future full of vibrant possibilities, gently waiting for you to arrive.
You're feeling disconnected, like life as you're living it has lost purpose and meaning. It's even hard to name the exact discomfort and pain. Life might look successful on the surface, but you know something feels off. Depressed, anxious, or going through normal turmoil during unprecedented collective change? You just know the way you move through the world isn't working anymore. You're ready to reconnect with who you know yourself to be. Together, we'll listen deeply to what eludes you. Making space for life—as it is in the here and now—opens a door toward a future full of vibrant possibilities, gently waiting for you to arrive.
(678) 616-9744 View (678) 616-9744
Photo of Claudia Calderon, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Claudia Calderon
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30030
We all want to live rich meaningful lives. You’ve heard the phrase, “it’s about the journey not the destination.” All people, regardless of race, gender, geography, income, religion, experience moments in their lives when things become tough to handle, when no matter what resources or emotional fortitude we may have we are unable to manage. While some problems are more challenging than others, we all experience times in our lives when we begin to lose hope and doubt that a resolution will emerge.
We all want to live rich meaningful lives. You’ve heard the phrase, “it’s about the journey not the destination.” All people, regardless of race, gender, geography, income, religion, experience moments in their lives when things become tough to handle, when no matter what resources or emotional fortitude we may have we are unable to manage. While some problems are more challenging than others, we all experience times in our lives when we begin to lose hope and doubt that a resolution will emerge.
(404) 975-1549 View (404) 975-1549
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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.