Photo of Terese Westberg, MS, LCPC, Counselor
Terese Westberg
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Wayne, IL 60184
I believe that we all deserve to be happy. I work with clients to identify, evaluate, and challenge non-productive fears, thoughts, behavior patterns and beliefs, and develop purposeful and productive insights, beliefs, and behaviors to encourage and restore well-being.
I believe that we all deserve to be happy. I work with clients to identify, evaluate, and challenge non-productive fears, thoughts, behavior patterns and beliefs, and develop purposeful and productive insights, beliefs, and behaviors to encourage and restore well-being.
(630) 318-3030 View (630) 318-3030
Photo of Cherry Weber, PhD, Psychologist
Cherry Weber
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Wayne, IL 60184
I consider myself to be a professional problem solver. When clients contact my office, I work with them to identify what is causing them distress if they do not already know and help them learn new coping strategies to deal more effectively with problems in the future. I treat each client's problems on an individual basis and believe in treating clients with respect. I know it is difficult to contact a professional with a problem which is causing distress and try to make the process a good experience. It is possible to live a happy life.
I consider myself to be a professional problem solver. When clients contact my office, I work with them to identify what is causing them distress if they do not already know and help them learn new coping strategies to deal more effectively with problems in the future. I treat each client's problems on an individual basis and believe in treating clients with respect. I know it is difficult to contact a professional with a problem which is causing distress and try to make the process a good experience. It is possible to live a happy life.
(630) 743-6501 View (630) 743-6501

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of John Gilmore Dewinski, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
John Gilmore Dewinski
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Batavia, IL 60510
I can assist clients with myriad potential challenges, but I specialize in the treatment of ADHD, depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder.
If you are reading this, then you know better than anyone the struggles that you are facing. Whether you find yourself anxious, depressed, affected by past trauma, or simply finding that you have trouble achieving your current goals, it is important to find support to process these feelings and give yourself the space to make decisions you are happy with. My role is to build a unique connection to each client by empathizing with them and working to understand their current feelings and history. No two clients are the same, and I will select evidence-based treatments based on what the client brings to the session.
I can assist clients with myriad potential challenges, but I specialize in the treatment of ADHD, depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder.
If you are reading this, then you know better than anyone the struggles that you are facing. Whether you find yourself anxious, depressed, affected by past trauma, or simply finding that you have trouble achieving your current goals, it is important to find support to process these feelings and give yourself the space to make decisions you are happy with. My role is to build a unique connection to each client by empathizing with them and working to understand their current feelings and history. No two clients are the same, and I will select evidence-based treatments based on what the client brings to the session.
(630) 528-2731 View (630) 528-2731
Photo of Amariah Carnate, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amariah Carnate
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bloomingdale, IL 60108
I have had the privilege of working with children, adolescents, and adults in a variety of settings with people struggling with a variety of diagnoses, including but not limited to anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, behavioral issues, and emotional dysregulation.
At some point in our lives, we will encounter challenges that can cause us to feel overwhelmed, stressed, or anxious. We might struggle with feeling lost with no sense of direction. When we find ourselves in these situations, it can be difficult to face these obstacles alone. Through therapy you can receive the support needed to help you work through those difficult times. My mission in therapy is to provide a safe, open space to help you identify your strengths, develop skills, create goals, and work through challenges in your life.
I have had the privilege of working with children, adolescents, and adults in a variety of settings with people struggling with a variety of diagnoses, including but not limited to anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, behavioral issues, and emotional dysregulation.
At some point in our lives, we will encounter challenges that can cause us to feel overwhelmed, stressed, or anxious. We might struggle with feeling lost with no sense of direction. When we find ourselves in these situations, it can be difficult to face these obstacles alone. Through therapy you can receive the support needed to help you work through those difficult times. My mission in therapy is to provide a safe, open space to help you identify your strengths, develop skills, create goals, and work through challenges in your life.
(847) 416-8248 View (847) 416-8248
Photo of Meghan Ware, LCPC, EMDR, Counselor
Meghan Ware
Counselor, LCPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Wheaton, IL 60187
I work with a multitude of clients to identify and express their emotions in a healthy manner, teaching them various coping skills. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and adults. I have worked with those suffering from anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, trauma, grief and loss, addiction and those having a hard time finding themselves. I believe in the importance of building rapport using empathy and compassion to reach clients of all ages.
I work with a multitude of clients to identify and express their emotions in a healthy manner, teaching them various coping skills. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and adults. I have worked with those suffering from anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, trauma, grief and loss, addiction and those having a hard time finding themselves. I believe in the importance of building rapport using empathy and compassion to reach clients of all ages.
(331) 244-4973 View (331) 244-4973
Photo of Lisa Aranas - Empowered And Authentic Living, LLC, JD, LCPC
Empowered And Authentic Living, LLC
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, JD, LCPC
Verified Verified
Hoffman Estates, IL 60169
We specialize in anxiety, depression, bipolar, ADD/ADHD, LGBTQ, trauma (PTSD & Complex PTSD), grief and loss, domestic violence, couple, and family issues, shadow work, and inner child healing.
Thank you for taking the time to read about EAL. We believe you have the right to live your best life; to be your most empowered and authentic self. We believe that everyone eventually seeks meaning and purpose in their life, and finding and living this ultimate goal will bring long lasting joy and true happiness. We are a unique holistic practice that focuses on mind, body, and spirit, integrating Psychology, Spirituality, and Metaphysics to get to the root of your emotional issues that block you from experiencing peace and happiness. We help young children, teens, adults, couples, and families to help open and guide them on a path to living and enjoying life fully. We also hold retreats, seminars, and trainings (CEUs) to support the needs of our clients and our community.
We specialize in anxiety, depression, bipolar, ADD/ADHD, LGBTQ, trauma (PTSD & Complex PTSD), grief and loss, domestic violence, couple, and family issues, shadow work, and inner child healing.
Thank you for taking the time to read about EAL. We believe you have the right to live your best life; to be your most empowered and authentic self. We believe that everyone eventually seeks meaning and purpose in their life, and finding and living this ultimate goal will bring long lasting joy and true happiness. We are a unique holistic practice that focuses on mind, body, and spirit, integrating Psychology, Spirituality, and Metaphysics to get to the root of your emotional issues that block you from experiencing peace and happiness. We help young children, teens, adults, couples, and families to help open and guide them on a path to living and enjoying life fully. We also hold retreats, seminars, and trainings (CEUs) to support the needs of our clients and our community.
(847) 780-2081 View (847) 780-2081
Photo of Greg Mahoney, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Greg Mahoney
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Bloomingdale, IL 60108
I have expertise in dealing with Conflict Resolution, Anger Management, Depression, Anxiety, Substance Abuse, Bipolar Disorder, Coping Skills, Stress, and Trauma/PTSD.
Hello, my name is Greg Mahoney and I have been a Professional Counselor for over 30 years. I have a M.A. in Counseling Psychology from the Adler School of Professional Psychology. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor licensed by the State of Illinois. I have worked in numerous settings: Inpatient, Outpatient, a Substance Abuse Clinic, and in Churches. I have wide-ranging experience both professionally and personally. I have been married to my wife for 32 years and we have raised three daughters. I feel it is the calling of my life to help others and it has been the Joy of my life to do so. Let me help you today.
I have expertise in dealing with Conflict Resolution, Anger Management, Depression, Anxiety, Substance Abuse, Bipolar Disorder, Coping Skills, Stress, and Trauma/PTSD.
Hello, my name is Greg Mahoney and I have been a Professional Counselor for over 30 years. I have a M.A. in Counseling Psychology from the Adler School of Professional Psychology. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor licensed by the State of Illinois. I have worked in numerous settings: Inpatient, Outpatient, a Substance Abuse Clinic, and in Churches. I have wide-ranging experience both professionally and personally. I have been married to my wife for 32 years and we have raised three daughters. I feel it is the calling of my life to help others and it has been the Joy of my life to do so. Let me help you today.
(847) 474-9379 View (847) 474-9379
Photo of Melody Wilson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melody Wilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Glendale Heights, IL 60139
My name is Melody Wilson, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in both Illinois and Indiana with over 16 years of clinical experience working with adults with Anger Management, Coping Skills, Grief, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Life Coaching, Parenting, Schizophrenia, Stress, Self Esteem, and Life Transitions. I use various therapy modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, and all those which are adequate for my client’s mental health needs. I firmly believe that support is not a weakness but a need!
My name is Melody Wilson, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in both Illinois and Indiana with over 16 years of clinical experience working with adults with Anger Management, Coping Skills, Grief, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Life Coaching, Parenting, Schizophrenia, Stress, Self Esteem, and Life Transitions. I use various therapy modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, and all those which are adequate for my client’s mental health needs. I firmly believe that support is not a weakness but a need!
(708) 394-7831 View (708) 394-7831
Photo of Lindsay Prombaum, LCPC, CCATP, Counselor
Lindsay Prombaum
Counselor, LCPC, CCATP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wheaton, IL 60189
Areas of practice include: Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, grief/loss, Bipolar Disorder, adjustment issues, suicidal thoughts or behaviors, self-injury, and school struggles.
I am a licensed mental health therapist and certified clinical anxiety treatment provider, working with adolescents and adults to take the necessary steps to improve their well-being. I use compassion, humor, warmth, and respect to connect with clients and their experiences, and my approach focuses on listening, mutual feedback, and collaborative participation in session. Healthy coping skills, self-esteem, communication, and relationships are also focused on, in order to build a stable foundation for continued success.
Areas of practice include: Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, grief/loss, Bipolar Disorder, adjustment issues, suicidal thoughts or behaviors, self-injury, and school struggles.
I am a licensed mental health therapist and certified clinical anxiety treatment provider, working with adolescents and adults to take the necessary steps to improve their well-being. I use compassion, humor, warmth, and respect to connect with clients and their experiences, and my approach focuses on listening, mutual feedback, and collaborative participation in session. Healthy coping skills, self-esteem, communication, and relationships are also focused on, in order to build a stable foundation for continued success.
(630) 243-5216 View (630) 243-5216
Photo of Michelle Reynolds, MS, LCPC, Counselor
Michelle Reynolds
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hoffman Estates, IL 60169
My specialties include: anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, personality disorders, and severe mental illnesses.
I am passionate about working with individuals on illness education, symptom management, cognitive restructuring, affect regulation, behavior modification, and interpersonal skill development. My goal is to provide a safe environment for people to learn about themselves, begin to love who they are, and overcome social, emotional, economical, and vocational struggles while reaching their full potential in life. I want to help those who feel unloved and broken return to feeling whole again with active encouragement and support.
My specialties include: anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, personality disorders, and severe mental illnesses.
I am passionate about working with individuals on illness education, symptom management, cognitive restructuring, affect regulation, behavior modification, and interpersonal skill development. My goal is to provide a safe environment for people to learn about themselves, begin to love who they are, and overcome social, emotional, economical, and vocational struggles while reaching their full potential in life. I want to help those who feel unloved and broken return to feeling whole again with active encouragement and support.
(847) 807-1931 View (847) 807-1931
Photo of Cynthia M Stafford, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Cynthia M Stafford
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Warrenville, IL 60555
I specialize in the treatment of anxiety and panic disorders; depression, bipolar disorders and post-partum depression; eating disorders, including anorexia, bulimia, and compulsive overeating; weight management and healthy lifestyle coaching; trauma recovery, including sexual abuse; self-esteem and self-image issues; marriage and relationship counseling; and divorce recovery.
Are you struggling in your personal life or relationships? Counseling is the first step to becoming healthy and fulfilled. I have 30+ years of experience walking alongside people of all ages, including couples and families, to help them on their journey of personal growth. We will work cooperatively together to reach your goals through proven therapeutic interventions, including stress management, anger management, communication skills, emotion regulation, relaxation techniques, cognitive/behavioral therapy, & EMDR. Let's get started working toward your goals.
I specialize in the treatment of anxiety and panic disorders; depression, bipolar disorders and post-partum depression; eating disorders, including anorexia, bulimia, and compulsive overeating; weight management and healthy lifestyle coaching; trauma recovery, including sexual abuse; self-esteem and self-image issues; marriage and relationship counseling; and divorce recovery.
Are you struggling in your personal life or relationships? Counseling is the first step to becoming healthy and fulfilled. I have 30+ years of experience walking alongside people of all ages, including couples and families, to help them on their journey of personal growth. We will work cooperatively together to reach your goals through proven therapeutic interventions, including stress management, anger management, communication skills, emotion regulation, relaxation techniques, cognitive/behavioral therapy, & EMDR. Let's get started working toward your goals.
(630) 449-7745 View (630) 449-7745
Photo of Cheryl Davidson, MA , LCPC, Counselor
Cheryl Davidson
Counselor, MA , LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Charles, IL 60174
l work with persons dealing with Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Grief and Loss, Bipolar Disorder, Anger Management, Stress Management, Self Esteem, Relationship Communications, Co-Dependency, and Divorce. The therapeutic strategies that I utilize are evidence-based such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. Along with client input, I help you to develop coping strategies and new skills to mitigate current stressors, improve self-compassion, cultivate a sense of self-value and increase resiliency.
l work with persons dealing with Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Grief and Loss, Bipolar Disorder, Anger Management, Stress Management, Self Esteem, Relationship Communications, Co-Dependency, and Divorce. The therapeutic strategies that I utilize are evidence-based such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. Along with client input, I help you to develop coping strategies and new skills to mitigate current stressors, improve self-compassion, cultivate a sense of self-value and increase resiliency.
(630) 394-8620 View (630) 394-8620
Photo of Karen Bailey, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karen Bailey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wheaton, IL 60187
) I also work with people with the diagnosis of bipolar or personality disorder.
TELEHEALTH SESSIONS now available! As a nation, we are being inundated with conflicting information, and you may find yourself feeling stressed, lonely and even overwhelmed during this time of uncertainty. Some of you may be thinking, "And I thought I was anxious before COVID-19!" You may be looking for help in better navigating your reactions, anxiety and depression, especially now as your emotional responses may feel especially strong. I specialize in both providing the "whys" behind these emotional reactions and the "hows" to promote lasting change.
) I also work with people with the diagnosis of bipolar or personality disorder.
TELEHEALTH SESSIONS now available! As a nation, we are being inundated with conflicting information, and you may find yourself feeling stressed, lonely and even overwhelmed during this time of uncertainty. Some of you may be thinking, "And I thought I was anxious before COVID-19!" You may be looking for help in better navigating your reactions, anxiety and depression, especially now as your emotional responses may feel especially strong. I specialize in both providing the "whys" behind these emotional reactions and the "hows" to promote lasting change.
(630) 733-1861 View (630) 733-1861
Photo of Jennifer L. Jackson, MA, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer L. Jackson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carol Stream, IL 60188
Hello, my name is Jennifer Lee Jackson, and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 14 years of clinical experience working with clients living with depression, anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Excoriation Disorder, addiction, unhelpful thinking styles, low self-esteem, codependency, poor boundary setting, PMDD, and trauma. I am an eclectic therapist who uses Cognitive Behavioral, Dialectical, Eclectic, Psychodynamic, and Couples Therapy during treatment with my clients. I believe in creating an egalitarian relationship with you to foster a safe and empowering environment for long-term recovery and stability.
Hello, my name is Jennifer Lee Jackson, and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 14 years of clinical experience working with clients living with depression, anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Excoriation Disorder, addiction, unhelpful thinking styles, low self-esteem, codependency, poor boundary setting, PMDD, and trauma. I am an eclectic therapist who uses Cognitive Behavioral, Dialectical, Eclectic, Psychodynamic, and Couples Therapy during treatment with my clients. I believe in creating an egalitarian relationship with you to foster a safe and empowering environment for long-term recovery and stability.
(618) 205-9340 View (618) 205-9340
Photo of Elizabeth Piazza, MA, LCPC
Elizabeth Piazza
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Elgin, IL 60123
I believe therapy is for everyone. There is no problem too big or small that can't be helped through therapy. My goal with all my clients is to create a safe, judgment-free space for self-exploration and healing. I’ve been a practicing Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor since 2015, after receiving my Master’s in Counseling from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. I’ve worked extensively with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, bipolar, trauma, and substance abuse. I work with ages 12 and up. I am happy to meet in person or via telehealth to design a game plan to address your treatment goals.
I believe therapy is for everyone. There is no problem too big or small that can't be helped through therapy. My goal with all my clients is to create a safe, judgment-free space for self-exploration and healing. I’ve been a practicing Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor since 2015, after receiving my Master’s in Counseling from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. I’ve worked extensively with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, bipolar, trauma, and substance abuse. I work with ages 12 and up. I am happy to meet in person or via telehealth to design a game plan to address your treatment goals.
(630) 332-3873 View (630) 332-3873
Photo of Dianne Grande, PhD, Psychologist
Dianne Grande
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Geneva, IL 60134  (Online Only)
Whether you are seeking help with a current situation or a longer-term problem, you're probably needing understanding and support. I have worked with individuals, couples, and families for over 25 years. The majority of my experience has been working with individuals experiencing depression, anxiety disorders, and relationship problems. I also have expertise with adult ADHD, Highly Sensitive Persons (HSPs), and Bipolar Disorder. I will offer you support, empathy, and helpful tools which address your particular symptoms. I enjoy getting to know each person and helping them create a more satisfying life.
Whether you are seeking help with a current situation or a longer-term problem, you're probably needing understanding and support. I have worked with individuals, couples, and families for over 25 years. The majority of my experience has been working with individuals experiencing depression, anxiety disorders, and relationship problems. I also have expertise with adult ADHD, Highly Sensitive Persons (HSPs), and Bipolar Disorder. I will offer you support, empathy, and helpful tools which address your particular symptoms. I enjoy getting to know each person and helping them create a more satisfying life.
(630) 318-2836 View (630) 318-2836
Photo of Catherine Ness - Affective Counseling, Counselor
Affective Counseling
Counselor
Verified Verified
Hoffman Estates, IL 60192
All therapists at Affective Counseling have an emphasis in treating affective (mood) disorders, including Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Dysthymia, and Cyclothymia.
Affective Counseling provides tailored counseling for adults, children, adolescents, couples and families. Our compassionate and knowledgeable staff realize that you face unique life challenges and it is our goal to understand how you see the world, yourself and others so that we can better help you navigate life’s journey. Building on personal strengths, recognizing and challenging negative thoughts and developing tangible coping skills are some of the interventions our staff utilizes to assist you in reaching your personal goals.
All therapists at Affective Counseling have an emphasis in treating affective (mood) disorders, including Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Dysthymia, and Cyclothymia.
Affective Counseling provides tailored counseling for adults, children, adolescents, couples and families. Our compassionate and knowledgeable staff realize that you face unique life challenges and it is our goal to understand how you see the world, yourself and others so that we can better help you navigate life’s journey. Building on personal strengths, recognizing and challenging negative thoughts and developing tangible coping skills are some of the interventions our staff utilizes to assist you in reaching your personal goals.
(224) 228-3656 View (224) 228-3656
Photo of Shannon M Underwood, MS, Ed, LCPC, Counselor
Shannon M Underwood
Counselor, MS, Ed, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Charles, IL 60174
In my practice, I provide individual, family, couples, and group counseling for ages 4-60 years of age. I have high levels of competence ranging from behavioral/conduct issues, adjustment disorders, high functioning Autism, blended family/divorce issues, ADHD, self esteem issues, relational aggression/bullying, anxiety, depression, Bipolar and other mood disorders, personality disorders, substance abuse, marital issues/relational issues, life transition and a myriad of other complex challenges.
In my practice, I provide individual, family, couples, and group counseling for ages 4-60 years of age. I have high levels of competence ranging from behavioral/conduct issues, adjustment disorders, high functioning Autism, blended family/divorce issues, ADHD, self esteem issues, relational aggression/bullying, anxiety, depression, Bipolar and other mood disorders, personality disorders, substance abuse, marital issues/relational issues, life transition and a myriad of other complex challenges.
(630) 504-2363 x103 View (630) 504-2363 x103
Photo of Amy Matthews, LCPC, NCC, CADC, Counselor
Amy Matthews
Counselor, LCPC, NCC, CADC
Verified Verified
Batavia, IL 60510
I have experience working with many issues: depression, anxiety, bipolar, borderline personality, autism, ADHD, addiction.
Everyone needs help sometimes. Life comes with challenges and finding support is important in order to face them, especially when the challenges feel like more than we can handle on our own. I believe that every person has the strength they need to face these challenges and often just need help to find it. I am here to offer whatever is needed: a safe place to freely speak your mind without judgment, a chance to be understood, an ally to look at situations and options, a companion to offer new ideas and perspectives.
I have experience working with many issues: depression, anxiety, bipolar, borderline personality, autism, ADHD, addiction.
Everyone needs help sometimes. Life comes with challenges and finding support is important in order to face them, especially when the challenges feel like more than we can handle on our own. I believe that every person has the strength they need to face these challenges and often just need help to find it. I am here to offer whatever is needed: a safe place to freely speak your mind without judgment, a chance to be understood, an ally to look at situations and options, a companion to offer new ideas and perspectives.
(331) 702-9433 View (331) 702-9433
Photo of Scott Hamilton, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Scott Hamilton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Elgin, IL 60123
Looking to make a change in your life? I'm here to help. Therapy is a collaborative process and I am here to walk with you through life's struggles, transitions, and achievements. I use an integrative approach that draws on people's individual strengths using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Psychodynamic Theory. I have experience working with people navigating the challenges life brings them. I've treated individuals diagnosed with a range of disorder such as Anxiety Disorders, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Looking to make a change in your life? I'm here to help. Therapy is a collaborative process and I am here to walk with you through life's struggles, transitions, and achievements. I use an integrative approach that draws on people's individual strengths using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Psychodynamic Theory. I have experience working with people navigating the challenges life brings them. I've treated individuals diagnosed with a range of disorder such as Anxiety Disorders, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
(630) 349-5106 View (630) 349-5106

See more therapy options for Wayne

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.