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More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Kelly Fein, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelly Fein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Danville, IL 61834  (Online Only)
I have over 12 years of experience in the field. Areas I like to address include, past trauma and abuse, depression, anxiety, relationships, eating disorders, personality disorders, self-esteem, bullying, social awareness, and parenting support among other issues. I have extensive training in therapeutic approaches with children and adolescents including art therapy and play-based approaches, however I enjoy working with all age groups.
I have over 12 years of experience in the field. Areas I like to address include, past trauma and abuse, depression, anxiety, relationships, eating disorders, personality disorders, self-esteem, bullying, social awareness, and parenting support among other issues. I have extensive training in therapeutic approaches with children and adolescents including art therapy and play-based approaches, however I enjoy working with all age groups.
(217) 742-6841 View (217) 742-6841
Photo of Milia B Bergkoetter, MS, MFCC, LCPC, Counselor
Milia B Bergkoetter
Counselor, MS, MFCC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Danville, IL 61832
I'm a seasoned therapist with 30+ years of experience working with families, couples, children, and adolescents. In addition to conducting a successful private practice, my experience includes working in various settings ranging from hospital in-patient, residential treatment, out-reach, and community mental health. I'm trained in several modalities to treat a variety of presenting concerns; depression, anxiety, abuse, trauma, or stress.
I'm a seasoned therapist with 30+ years of experience working with families, couples, children, and adolescents. In addition to conducting a successful private practice, my experience includes working in various settings ranging from hospital in-patient, residential treatment, out-reach, and community mental health. I'm trained in several modalities to treat a variety of presenting concerns; depression, anxiety, abuse, trauma, or stress.
(217) 754-8221 View (217) 754-8221
Photo of Amanda Gaugler, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amanda Gaugler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Danville, IL 61832  (Online Only)
The present world can be a beautiful and intriguing place-but when dealing with day to day stressors or mental health we tend to lose sight of this. It can be overwhelming to both witness and experience these challenges. I decided to become a therapist when I saw so many around me struggling to navigate life and wanted to be a part of change with hope. With our never ending priority lists, it's easy to at times feel like we are a burden when we experience challenges, but I'm honored to hold space for you! I take you trusting me with your story very seriously.
The present world can be a beautiful and intriguing place-but when dealing with day to day stressors or mental health we tend to lose sight of this. It can be overwhelming to both witness and experience these challenges. I decided to become a therapist when I saw so many around me struggling to navigate life and wanted to be a part of change with hope. With our never ending priority lists, it's easy to at times feel like we are a burden when we experience challenges, but I'm honored to hold space for you! I take you trusting me with your story very seriously.
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Photo of Amber Loewenstein, MS, LCPC, LMHC, Counselor
Amber Loewenstein
Counselor, MS, LCPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Danville, IL 61832
Life can be very complicated. You may feel like you are doing everything possible to make things better for yourself or for someone you love, but have run out of energy, ideas, or both. You may have a relationship with someone you love but just can't seem to get along. You may be a parent trying to best figure out how to help a child or teen who is having problems. You may feel burdened by sadness, fear, or stress. Or perhaps you have old wounds that seem to keep interfering with your ability to create the life you desire.
Life can be very complicated. You may feel like you are doing everything possible to make things better for yourself or for someone you love, but have run out of energy, ideas, or both. You may have a relationship with someone you love but just can't seem to get along. You may be a parent trying to best figure out how to help a child or teen who is having problems. You may feel burdened by sadness, fear, or stress. Or perhaps you have old wounds that seem to keep interfering with your ability to create the life you desire.
(765) 560-1590 View (765) 560-1590

Online Therapists

Photo of Jessica Moreno, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Moreno
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Steger, IL 60475
Hello! My name is Jessica Moreno, and I currently hold my LCSW. My approach to therapy is individualized and holistic. I have experience providing ACT, DBT, trauma-focused therapy, and crisis therapy. I have worked with people who have been diagnosed with depression, anxiety, Bipolar disorder, PTSD, eating disorders, etc. I'm comfortable treating the previously noted diagnosis. My approach to therapy is individualized and holistic. I have experience providing ACT, DBT, trauma-focused therapy, and crisis therapy. try to create an open and interactive environment in which clients can express themselves.
Hello! My name is Jessica Moreno, and I currently hold my LCSW. My approach to therapy is individualized and holistic. I have experience providing ACT, DBT, trauma-focused therapy, and crisis therapy. I have worked with people who have been diagnosed with depression, anxiety, Bipolar disorder, PTSD, eating disorders, etc. I'm comfortable treating the previously noted diagnosis. My approach to therapy is individualized and holistic. I have experience providing ACT, DBT, trauma-focused therapy, and crisis therapy. try to create an open and interactive environment in which clients can express themselves.
(773) 904-1931 View (773) 904-1931
Photo of Melissa Allinger, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa Allinger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61820  (Online Only)
I work with adults, teens, & adolescents, specializing in depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, OCD, schizophrenia, & trauma counseling.
I am an MSW, Licensed Social Worker specializing in clinical therapy. My goal is to assist and advocate for others in our community. We will construct achievable goals and evaluate them as we progress. I look forward to walking down your path, collaborating, and working with you to improve your whole health. I strive to end our community's behavioral and mental health stigmas! It is OKAY - to not be OKAY!
I work with adults, teens, & adolescents, specializing in depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, OCD, schizophrenia, & trauma counseling.
I am an MSW, Licensed Social Worker specializing in clinical therapy. My goal is to assist and advocate for others in our community. We will construct achievable goals and evaluate them as we progress. I look forward to walking down your path, collaborating, and working with you to improve your whole health. I strive to end our community's behavioral and mental health stigmas! It is OKAY - to not be OKAY!
(217) 817-0204 View (217) 817-0204
Photo of Krista Woods, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Krista Woods
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Homewood, IL 60430
Have you been struggling with feelings of sadness, anxiety or panic attacks? Or are you tired of people using you or struggling to get motivated? I provide compassionate care while providing the tools and information to help you heal. Other challenges like drugs/alcohol, bipolar disorder; or if you're not sure what the problem is but need help and support, I will work with you to help you live a better, healthier life. My extensive experience also includes helping children, teens and adults impacted by foster care, have been adopted, are birth parents, or who are adoptive/ foster parents.
Have you been struggling with feelings of sadness, anxiety or panic attacks? Or are you tired of people using you or struggling to get motivated? I provide compassionate care while providing the tools and information to help you heal. Other challenges like drugs/alcohol, bipolar disorder; or if you're not sure what the problem is but need help and support, I will work with you to help you live a better, healthier life. My extensive experience also includes helping children, teens and adults impacted by foster care, have been adopted, are birth parents, or who are adoptive/ foster parents.
(708) 669-0730 View (708) 669-0730
Photo of Keri Powell, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Keri Powell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61820
I'm comfortable treating most issues. My strength is the ability to quickly cultivate trusting and meaningful relationships in which my clients find the comfort they need to explore difficult issues and emotions. I most often help clients with basic life stressors and adjustments, but I have extensive experience in treating Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, and Co-Dependency issues. I'm most passionate about empowering women and promoting self-acceptance. I encourage exploring the mind-body-spirit connections. My goal is to lead clients through a journey of self-discovery to assist them in arriving at new insights and realizations.
I'm comfortable treating most issues. My strength is the ability to quickly cultivate trusting and meaningful relationships in which my clients find the comfort they need to explore difficult issues and emotions. I most often help clients with basic life stressors and adjustments, but I have extensive experience in treating Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, and Co-Dependency issues. I'm most passionate about empowering women and promoting self-acceptance. I encourage exploring the mind-body-spirit connections. My goal is to lead clients through a journey of self-discovery to assist them in arriving at new insights and realizations.
(217) 814-0972 View (217) 814-0972
Photo of Brian Jula, PsyD, Psychologist
Brian Jula
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Frankfort, IL 60423
In private practice I have worked with and treated individuals with a variety of struggles including depression, anxiety, bipolar, obsessive-compulsive, sexual disorders and more.
“Most people seek therapy because something isn’t working. Sometimes people do not feel equipped to handle life’s problems – work stress, family stress, health issues, etc. Many individuals feel stuck trying to solve problems the same way when those solutions are no longer helpful. This pain can leave someone suffering and feeling helpless.” I want to help you gain perspective and new knowledge and skills for change. Often this involves being more aware and present in the moment. Many people do not recognize the power they have to create positive change in their lives. I will help empower you to find your strengths and make change.
In private practice I have worked with and treated individuals with a variety of struggles including depression, anxiety, bipolar, obsessive-compulsive, sexual disorders and more.
“Most people seek therapy because something isn’t working. Sometimes people do not feel equipped to handle life’s problems – work stress, family stress, health issues, etc. Many individuals feel stuck trying to solve problems the same way when those solutions are no longer helpful. This pain can leave someone suffering and feeling helpless.” I want to help you gain perspective and new knowledge and skills for change. Often this involves being more aware and present in the moment. Many people do not recognize the power they have to create positive change in their lives. I will help empower you to find your strengths and make change.
(779) 207-3857 View (779) 207-3857
Photo of James Orseno, PsyD, Psychologist
James Orseno
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Orland Park, IL 60462
Hello! I work with children, adolescents, and adults on a variety of issues. I specialize in trauma work, personality disorders, ADHD, autism, depression, anxiety issues, bipolar one and two, social anxiety, separation anxiety, and psychotic disorders. I also am in charge of the psychological testing department at V&R. We test for various issues including ADHD, learning disabilities, ASD assessments, and general diagnostic concerns for clarity.
Hello! I work with children, adolescents, and adults on a variety of issues. I specialize in trauma work, personality disorders, ADHD, autism, depression, anxiety issues, bipolar one and two, social anxiety, separation anxiety, and psychotic disorders. I also am in charge of the psychological testing department at V&R. We test for various issues including ADHD, learning disabilities, ASD assessments, and general diagnostic concerns for clarity.
(708) 221-8571 x4 View (708) 221-8571 x4
Photo of Jamie Simmert, MS, LSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jamie Simmert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Mokena, IL 60448
I specialize in anxiety/depression, relationship issues, bipolar disorder, substance abuse, eating disorders, PTSD/trauma (EMDR), and improving communication and self-esteem.
We’ve all experienced times when we just feel stuck, going through the motions of life rather than actually living our best lives. Anxiety, depression, addiction, low self-esteem, past trauma or many other issues can impact your ability to live a full and happy life and have healthy family and other relationships. Therapy is a powerful medium that can provide many tools and strategies to help you navigate all of these challenges and many more. I enjoy working with child/adolescent, adult, and geriatric populations using a variety of therapeutic techniques including CBT, DBT, 12-Step, Trauma-Informed, and Family Systems Therapy.
I specialize in anxiety/depression, relationship issues, bipolar disorder, substance abuse, eating disorders, PTSD/trauma (EMDR), and improving communication and self-esteem.
We’ve all experienced times when we just feel stuck, going through the motions of life rather than actually living our best lives. Anxiety, depression, addiction, low self-esteem, past trauma or many other issues can impact your ability to live a full and happy life and have healthy family and other relationships. Therapy is a powerful medium that can provide many tools and strategies to help you navigate all of these challenges and many more. I enjoy working with child/adolescent, adult, and geriatric populations using a variety of therapeutic techniques including CBT, DBT, 12-Step, Trauma-Informed, and Family Systems Therapy.
(708) 315-2734 View (708) 315-2734
Photo of Amy N Druzik, LPC, MA, Counselor
Amy N Druzik
Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Homer Glen, IL 60491
I also work with clients who have grief/loss issues, ADD/ADHD, bipolar disorder, self-injury, OCD, and LGBTQ+.
I am committed to supporting my clients, responding to their therapeutic needs, and understanding the problems that are present in their daily lives. I value each client and work to build a therapeutic relationship based on trust and transparency. While offering support, nurturance, and compassion, I will help you successfully cope with life's many challenges.
I also work with clients who have grief/loss issues, ADD/ADHD, bipolar disorder, self-injury, OCD, and LGBTQ+.
I am committed to supporting my clients, responding to their therapeutic needs, and understanding the problems that are present in their daily lives. I value each client and work to build a therapeutic relationship based on trust and transparency. While offering support, nurturance, and compassion, I will help you successfully cope with life's many challenges.
(708) 746-4086 View (708) 746-4086
Photo of Kimberly Briney - Mental Edge Counseling LLC, PsyD, RDDP, Psychologist
Mental Edge Counseling LLC
Psychologist, PsyD, RDDP
Verified Verified
Mokena, IL 60448
Kimberly specializes in numerous mental health issues, including: Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, PTSD, Anger Issues, Relationship issues, and Personality and Behavior Disorders. Over the years, Kimberly has gained expertise with several specialty areas and populations in mental health, including co-occurring disorders, trauma-informed/ gender-responsive treatment, and has significant experience working with diverse populations. Kimberly also has expertise working with clients with substance abuse struggles and is a Registered Dual Disorder Professional (RDDP).
Kimberly specializes in numerous mental health issues, including: Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, PTSD, Anger Issues, Relationship issues, and Personality and Behavior Disorders. Over the years, Kimberly has gained expertise with several specialty areas and populations in mental health, including co-occurring disorders, trauma-informed/ gender-responsive treatment, and has significant experience working with diverse populations. Kimberly also has expertise working with clients with substance abuse struggles and is a Registered Dual Disorder Professional (RDDP).
(708) 742-7166 View (708) 742-7166
Photo of Abby Schuldt, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Abby Schuldt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61821
I am passionate about helping college students and adults experiencing depression, anxiety, and/or bipolar disorder.
I am passionate about creating a safe, nonjudgemental space for individuals and couples to process, learn and grow. In addition to encouraging my clients to set the pace of how they would like things to go, I also help them to challenge and reframe certain thought patterns that are causing suffering. Together, we find pathways of possibility and celebrate positive life changes.
I am passionate about helping college students and adults experiencing depression, anxiety, and/or bipolar disorder.
I am passionate about creating a safe, nonjudgemental space for individuals and couples to process, learn and grow. In addition to encouraging my clients to set the pace of how they would like things to go, I also help them to challenge and reframe certain thought patterns that are causing suffering. Together, we find pathways of possibility and celebrate positive life changes.
(217) 269-5533 View (217) 269-5533
Photo of Erin Sturm, LCPC
Erin Sturm
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61820
I work with clients who are struggling with depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and other life adjustments in which they need additional support.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 10 years of experience providing mental health treatment. During my graduate internship, I worked at a rape crisis center and was privileged to witness the resiliency and strength of those who have experienced significant traumas in their life. After receiving my master’s degree from Western Illinois University, I worked for 9 years at the local rape crisis center, which offered me valuable training in trauma and opportunities to grow in my clinical work.
I work with clients who are struggling with depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and other life adjustments in which they need additional support.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 10 years of experience providing mental health treatment. During my graduate internship, I worked at a rape crisis center and was privileged to witness the resiliency and strength of those who have experienced significant traumas in their life. After receiving my master’s degree from Western Illinois University, I worked for 9 years at the local rape crisis center, which offered me valuable training in trauma and opportunities to grow in my clinical work.
(217) 318-3007 View (217) 318-3007
Photo of Shannon M Mannix - Shannon Mannix Services Inc, MSW, LCSW, type 73, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shannon Mannix Services Inc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, type 73
Verified Verified
Homer Glen, IL 60491
I specialize in working with young kids, teens, and adults struggling with a variety of issues; Depression, ADHD, Autism, Anxiety, behavioral issues, sleeping difficulties, Bipolar disorder, Chronic pain, Medical issues, Grief/Loss.
Ms. Mannix's clinical practice focuses on providing cognitive behavioral therapy to children, adolescents & adults. Ms. Mannix also provides family therapy to clients of all ages. She has worked extensively with children, adolescents and adults who have Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Behavioral Problems & ADHD, Bipolar disorder, Autism, Divorce, Grief and loss, family conflicts, learning difficulties, school concerns. Ms. Mannix focuses on post traumatic stress, relational/behavioral problems in children, school difficulties, adolescences and adults as well. Ms. Mannix is also a strong advocate for persons with disabilities.
I specialize in working with young kids, teens, and adults struggling with a variety of issues; Depression, ADHD, Autism, Anxiety, behavioral issues, sleeping difficulties, Bipolar disorder, Chronic pain, Medical issues, Grief/Loss.
Ms. Mannix's clinical practice focuses on providing cognitive behavioral therapy to children, adolescents & adults. Ms. Mannix also provides family therapy to clients of all ages. She has worked extensively with children, adolescents and adults who have Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Behavioral Problems & ADHD, Bipolar disorder, Autism, Divorce, Grief and loss, family conflicts, learning difficulties, school concerns. Ms. Mannix focuses on post traumatic stress, relational/behavioral problems in children, school difficulties, adolescences and adults as well. Ms. Mannix is also a strong advocate for persons with disabilities.
(708) 315-6302 View (708) 315-6302
Photo of Becky Kalvelage-Roth, PsyD, CADC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Becky Kalvelage-Roth
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD, CADC
Verified Verified
Bradley, IL 60915
My work includes treating a variety of clinical disorders: Pain, depression, anxiety, bipolar, posttraumatic stress disorder, substance abuse, anger management, domestic violence, relational issues, adolescent issues, delinquency etc.
Are you in pain from an injury. Do you feel your family is falling apart? Is there domestic violence in your home? Have you lost interest and pleasure in the things you used to do? Do you get angry over the little things in life and feel out of control? Are you dependent or abuse alcohol and/ or drugs and it is interfering with your personal life or job? You are not alone many people suffer from these issues.The decision to seek therapy could be a new beginning for you.Treatment is always confidential.
My work includes treating a variety of clinical disorders: Pain, depression, anxiety, bipolar, posttraumatic stress disorder, substance abuse, anger management, domestic violence, relational issues, adolescent issues, delinquency etc.
Are you in pain from an injury. Do you feel your family is falling apart? Is there domestic violence in your home? Have you lost interest and pleasure in the things you used to do? Do you get angry over the little things in life and feel out of control? Are you dependent or abuse alcohol and/ or drugs and it is interfering with your personal life or job? You are not alone many people suffer from these issues.The decision to seek therapy could be a new beginning for you.Treatment is always confidential.
(815) 676-6924 View (815) 676-6924
Photo of Chelsea (Derks) Knight, LCSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chelsea (Derks) Knight
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60657  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My clients describe my approach as gentle and direct with a dab of humor. I do my best work treating individuals who have experienced interpersonal trauma, people who are navigating their role in complicated families, and those who have been emotionally abused. I tend to find success with people who struggle with depression or low self-esteem, people who work in high-stress or helping professions, and people who do not know where to start. I have experience working with people with Bipolar Disorder, PMDD, learning disabilities, ADHD, anxiety, insomnia, auto-immune conditions, depression, anxiety, panic disorders, autism, & PTSD.
My clients describe my approach as gentle and direct with a dab of humor. I do my best work treating individuals who have experienced interpersonal trauma, people who are navigating their role in complicated families, and those who have been emotionally abused. I tend to find success with people who struggle with depression or low self-esteem, people who work in high-stress or helping professions, and people who do not know where to start. I have experience working with people with Bipolar Disorder, PMDD, learning disabilities, ADHD, anxiety, insomnia, auto-immune conditions, depression, anxiety, panic disorders, autism, & PTSD.
(248) 609-4698 View (248) 609-4698
Photo of Rosa V. King, MA, LCPC, NCC, Counselor
Rosa V. King
Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Homewood, IL 60430
I have over 11 years of experience working with adults, couples, and teens with different diagnosis such as anxiety, depression, motherhood, parenting, grief, childhood trauma, ADHD, college/career stress, bipolar disorder, etc.
My approach to life is eclectic. We can only control the NOW. We can plan for the future and learn to deal with the past. I help my clients (teens, parents (girlmomhere), adults & couples) learn to accept/like or love their current life. No one said life would be easy, but as long as we are breathing, we can learn how to make the best of it. I have an art background, so I use horticultural therapy (plants) and art projects with clients. I also educate clients on fitness and nutrition. I am a problem solver, so we will figure things out together. What, when, why and how?! We can dig into the past, work on now or plan for the future.
I have over 11 years of experience working with adults, couples, and teens with different diagnosis such as anxiety, depression, motherhood, parenting, grief, childhood trauma, ADHD, college/career stress, bipolar disorder, etc.
My approach to life is eclectic. We can only control the NOW. We can plan for the future and learn to deal with the past. I help my clients (teens, parents (girlmomhere), adults & couples) learn to accept/like or love their current life. No one said life would be easy, but as long as we are breathing, we can learn how to make the best of it. I have an art background, so I use horticultural therapy (plants) and art projects with clients. I also educate clients on fitness and nutrition. I am a problem solver, so we will figure things out together. What, when, why and how?! We can dig into the past, work on now or plan for the future.
(331) 226-1710 View (331) 226-1710
Photo of Tracey Kim Snow, PhD, LCPC, LFT, RMT, CFT, Counselor
Tracey Kim Snow
Counselor, PhD, LCPC, LFT, RMT, CFT
Verified Verified
Homer Glen, IL 60491
I have multiple specialties including; adult and womens' issues, grief and bereavement, family and couples counseling, anxiety and depression, bipolar, positive psychology, spirituality and mindfulness, child and adolescent counseling, young adults, divorce and life transitions, self esteem, parenting, blended families, caregivers, self care, personal coaching and empowerment, trauma, addiction & recovery.
Counseling is my calling. I feel honored to play a role in assisting people to overcome obstacles and to become the person that they always felt was possible. I am hear to guide people on their journey of self discovery while also providing the skills and tools necessary to overcome what ever challenges life has brought their way. I truly love what I do and provide caring acceptance and support to my clients. I am proud to say that my biggest referral base is former clients and I could not ask for a biggest compliment. Looking forward to helping you.
I have multiple specialties including; adult and womens' issues, grief and bereavement, family and couples counseling, anxiety and depression, bipolar, positive psychology, spirituality and mindfulness, child and adolescent counseling, young adults, divorce and life transitions, self esteem, parenting, blended families, caregivers, self care, personal coaching and empowerment, trauma, addiction & recovery.
Counseling is my calling. I feel honored to play a role in assisting people to overcome obstacles and to become the person that they always felt was possible. I am hear to guide people on their journey of self discovery while also providing the skills and tools necessary to overcome what ever challenges life has brought their way. I truly love what I do and provide caring acceptance and support to my clients. I am proud to say that my biggest referral base is former clients and I could not ask for a biggest compliment. Looking forward to helping you.
(708) 265-3858 View (708) 265-3858
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.