Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Aberdeen, NC
![Photo of Brandon Patrick Couch, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/271e8eed-d31c-470c-8913-97437744fc1b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Let's Connect: If you or someone you know is seeking support for PTSD, ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, or struggles with social anxiety, I am here to help.
My passion for helping others stems from my belief in the inherent resilience that lies within every person. I am a firm advocate for de-stigmatizing mental health challenges and fostering an environment of understanding and acceptance. I understand that seeking help can be a courageous step, and I am here to provide a judgment-free space where individuals can explore their thoughts, emotions, and concerns. My approach to therapy is rooted in a combination of Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), and Trauma-Focused Therapy. I enjoy working with Neurodivergents.
Let's Connect: If you or someone you know is seeking support for PTSD, ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, or struggles with social anxiety, I am here to help.
My passion for helping others stems from my belief in the inherent resilience that lies within every person. I am a firm advocate for de-stigmatizing mental health challenges and fostering an environment of understanding and acceptance. I understand that seeking help can be a courageous step, and I am here to provide a judgment-free space where individuals can explore their thoughts, emotions, and concerns. My approach to therapy is rooted in a combination of Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), and Trauma-Focused Therapy. I enjoy working with Neurodivergents.
![Photo of Felicity L. Sanders, PhD, HSP-P, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5328cde1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
I enjoy working with a variety of clients to overcome obstacles and challenges and increase happiness and satisfaction in multiple areas of life. My primary treatment approach is cognitive-behavioral therapy, meaning we work on changing thoughts and behaviors in order to change feelings, but I do incorporate other approaches when they would be beneficial. If you are seeking to improve your self-esteem, relationships, work, or school performance, I may be able to assist. Also, as an Army veteran and the spouse of a retired veteran, I understand the issues our military and families face.
I enjoy working with a variety of clients to overcome obstacles and challenges and increase happiness and satisfaction in multiple areas of life. My primary treatment approach is cognitive-behavioral therapy, meaning we work on changing thoughts and behaviors in order to change feelings, but I do incorporate other approaches when they would be beneficial. If you are seeking to improve your self-esteem, relationships, work, or school performance, I may be able to assist. Also, as an Army veteran and the spouse of a retired veteran, I understand the issues our military and families face.
![Photo of Susan Diane Couch - Serenity Mental and Medical Health Care, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/475f7c72-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Serenity Mental and Medical Health Care
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Aberdeen, NC 28315
Our clinic is dedicated to providing comprehensive health care. We have a collaborative practice which allows us to see the "whole person" not just parts. We believe in the innate ability our bodies have to heal wounds both physical and psychological. Each client is treated with compassion and care. We focus on developing a treatment plan that addresses your needs as well as our knowledge. We don't believe in "doing things" to clients without their understanding. Developing a safe and caring relationship is of utmost importance so we make every effort to create an environment that is as relaxing as possible.
Our clinic is dedicated to providing comprehensive health care. We have a collaborative practice which allows us to see the "whole person" not just parts. We believe in the innate ability our bodies have to heal wounds both physical and psychological. Each client is treated with compassion and care. We focus on developing a treatment plan that addresses your needs as well as our knowledge. We don't believe in "doing things" to clients without their understanding. Developing a safe and caring relationship is of utmost importance so we make every effort to create an environment that is as relaxing as possible.
![Photo of Allen Lamont Brooks - Allen Brooks Professional Counseling Service, MA, LPCS, NBCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fc45026-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Allen Brooks Professional Counseling Service
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, MA, LPCS, NBCC
Verified Verified
Aberdeen, NC 28315
Hi are you thinking what Im thinking, if so you're probably thinking "GEEZZ" Im tired of searching.. then stop, because you've located the right person at the right time, to help you navigate through your life journey. Everyone has a story to tell and yours is very important & Im ready to listen and ready to do whatever it takes to promote and initiate the needed changes you desire in life at this time.Trauma's often experienced and unrecognized! Instantly we think about hurricanes and earthquakes. Your personal storm, transition or change will be handled with care. Take a look at my website !!!!
Hi are you thinking what Im thinking, if so you're probably thinking "GEEZZ" Im tired of searching.. then stop, because you've located the right person at the right time, to help you navigate through your life journey. Everyone has a story to tell and yours is very important & Im ready to listen and ready to do whatever it takes to promote and initiate the needed changes you desire in life at this time.Trauma's often experienced and unrecognized! Instantly we think about hurricanes and earthquakes. Your personal storm, transition or change will be handled with care. Take a look at my website !!!!
![Photo of Jessica Parfitt - Lotus Counseling Center, MSW, LCSW, LCAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51e62fdd-f08c-40f5-aa11-76a43d3fe51b/3/320x400.jpeg)
Lotus Counseling Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
Aberdeen, NC 28315
I enjoy working with teens and adults on issues related to anger, ADHD, adjustments, depression, anxiety, PTSD and self-esteem. Teaching teens how to cope in this often times chaotic world is a passion of mine, but I also enjoy working with adults and teaching them how to decrease distorted thinking and create a life they love living. Self-awareness, self-regulation, self-soothing, and self-determination are fundamentally important for healing and I ask the questions that will help you understand your own barriers and teach you the skills that will empower you to change.
I enjoy working with teens and adults on issues related to anger, ADHD, adjustments, depression, anxiety, PTSD and self-esteem. Teaching teens how to cope in this often times chaotic world is a passion of mine, but I also enjoy working with adults and teaching them how to decrease distorted thinking and create a life they love living. Self-awareness, self-regulation, self-soothing, and self-determination are fundamentally important for healing and I ask the questions that will help you understand your own barriers and teach you the skills that will empower you to change.
![Photo of Laura Carson, MSW, LCSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fd0ea251-96a6-40f0-8a7e-8fa5a5b78c41/3/320x400.jpeg)
Laura Carson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Aberdeen, NC 28315 (Online Only)
Has something happened to you, your child, or someone you know and it's really been a lot to deal with? Does it feel like your feelings and thoughts are impacting your ability to enjoy life fully? Maybe you don't feel like your old self, or maybe you need help stepping into the self you really want to be. When you are struggling with sleep, stress, school, job,relationships, parenting, family issues, it can feel pretty overwhelming.Maybe you have tried all the things you can think of, and now realize you may need some help to move forward.It takes a lot of courage to reach out and I'm glad you are here!
Has something happened to you, your child, or someone you know and it's really been a lot to deal with? Does it feel like your feelings and thoughts are impacting your ability to enjoy life fully? Maybe you don't feel like your old self, or maybe you need help stepping into the self you really want to be. When you are struggling with sleep, stress, school, job,relationships, parenting, family issues, it can feel pretty overwhelming.Maybe you have tried all the things you can think of, and now realize you may need some help to move forward.It takes a lot of courage to reach out and I'm glad you are here!
![Photo of Shelwilbed Wray - Kardia Counseling & Consulting, PLLC, NCC, LCAS, AADC, LMHC, LCMHC-S, Drug & Alcohol Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45f945ec-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kardia Counseling & Consulting, PLLC
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, NCC, LCAS, AADC, LMHC, LCMHC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Aberdeen, NC 28315 (Online Only)
Kardia Counseling & Consulting began with the idea that the healing process is as much about what you feel and think as it is HOW you think about your feelings; the notion that healing, at its core is the repairing of our soul; to be done respectfully, compassionately and with conscious intention. The realignment of our innermost "being-ness" with that of our true nature could indeed recenter and heal us; that our deepest desires for internal peace, blissful coexistence with loved ones and even the contemplation of true happiness is within our reach.
Kardia Counseling & Consulting began with the idea that the healing process is as much about what you feel and think as it is HOW you think about your feelings; the notion that healing, at its core is the repairing of our soul; to be done respectfully, compassionately and with conscious intention. The realignment of our innermost "being-ness" with that of our true nature could indeed recenter and heal us; that our deepest desires for internal peace, blissful coexistence with loved ones and even the contemplation of true happiness is within our reach.
![Photo of Rose Yarborough - Harley Grace Farm and Counseling Center , MA, LPCS, JSOTS, CATP, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43ed5809-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Harley Grace Farm and Counseling Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCS, JSOTS, CATP
Verified Verified
Aberdeen, NC 28315
If going to a traditional office for therapy and medication management doesn't appeal to you, there is another option. Harley Grace Farm & Counseling Center combines evidence based mental health treatment with a non-traditional setting. Both therapy and medication management is offered. Therapy is designed to meet your individual needs; you can take a walk on the farm's trails, utilize activities with horses to actually practice new skills necessary to meet your goals or select one of the seating areas on the farm. The farm is a safe place of acceptance, growth & healing as we are all deserving of happiness & second chances.
If going to a traditional office for therapy and medication management doesn't appeal to you, there is another option. Harley Grace Farm & Counseling Center combines evidence based mental health treatment with a non-traditional setting. Both therapy and medication management is offered. Therapy is designed to meet your individual needs; you can take a walk on the farm's trails, utilize activities with horses to actually practice new skills necessary to meet your goals or select one of the seating areas on the farm. The farm is a safe place of acceptance, growth & healing as we are all deserving of happiness & second chances.
![Photo of Liz Harry (She Her Hers), MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cc3612d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Liz Harry (She Her Hers)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Aberdeen, NC 28315
I believe that we live in difficult and challenging times and there is no one who, at least on occasion, would not benefit from help in navigating their way through these times in order to have a better quality of life. I am here to listen to you and to help you achieve your vision for a happier and healthier life. I work with adults, teens, youth and children to address issues such as depression, anxiety, stress, adjustment to life changes, abuse, trauma, grief, and behavioral problems.
I believe that we live in difficult and challenging times and there is no one who, at least on occasion, would not benefit from help in navigating their way through these times in order to have a better quality of life. I am here to listen to you and to help you achieve your vision for a happier and healthier life. I work with adults, teens, youth and children to address issues such as depression, anxiety, stress, adjustment to life changes, abuse, trauma, grief, and behavioral problems.
![Photo of Barbara McGowan, MA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3eed0a45-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome to my practice! I appreciate your interest and would be honored to join you in your journey of self-discovery and healing. Are you faced with a situation that seems unfixable? Are you experiencing intense emotions that seem overwhelming? Be they circumstantial or long term problems such as grief, depression, loss of loved ones - anxiety, frustration and loneliness can affect you so much that you feel stuck, unable to live life the way you want. I have 21 years of experience in implementing evidence-based treatments that can help you make positive change and live a fuller and more joyful life.
Welcome to my practice! I appreciate your interest and would be honored to join you in your journey of self-discovery and healing. Are you faced with a situation that seems unfixable? Are you experiencing intense emotions that seem overwhelming? Be they circumstantial or long term problems such as grief, depression, loss of loved ones - anxiety, frustration and loneliness can affect you so much that you feel stuck, unable to live life the way you want. I have 21 years of experience in implementing evidence-based treatments that can help you make positive change and live a fuller and more joyful life.
![Photo of Kayla Staples, MSW, LCSW, RPT, TF-CBT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/859f948d-3e17-4497-b2fa-518881b15c2d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kayla Staples
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, RPT, TF-CBT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Aberdeen, NC 28315
Waitlist for new clients
I believe the hardest part of beginning any new experience is walking through the door. Acknowledging you need help and letting people in (let alone a stranger) is hard too! I strive to ensure that the experience of therapy is safe, welcoming, and positive. My hope is to help my clients discover strength within themselves and develop coping skills to help them improve their life and reduce unwanted symptoms.
I believe the hardest part of beginning any new experience is walking through the door. Acknowledging you need help and letting people in (let alone a stranger) is hard too! I strive to ensure that the experience of therapy is safe, welcoming, and positive. My hope is to help my clients discover strength within themselves and develop coping skills to help them improve their life and reduce unwanted symptoms.
![Photo of Ebone Rocker - Carolina Counseling Services - Southern Pines, NC, LCMHCS, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6ccca005-9bec-4a64-b708-165a89a59f28/1/320x400.jpeg)
Carolina Counseling Services - Southern Pines, NC
Counselor, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
Aberdeen, NC 28315
Life can be challenging, therapy can help. Our independently contracted therapists work with couples, adults, teens and children to get to where they want to be. We contract with friendly, experienced, licensed clinicians with different specialties who are able to help. Our Southern Pines and Pinehurst offices are warm and welcoming, allowing you to feel at home when meeting with your therapist. Please visit the website for detailed information on how we may assist you: www.CarolinaCounselingServices.com.
Life can be challenging, therapy can help. Our independently contracted therapists work with couples, adults, teens and children to get to where they want to be. We contract with friendly, experienced, licensed clinicians with different specialties who are able to help. Our Southern Pines and Pinehurst offices are warm and welcoming, allowing you to feel at home when meeting with your therapist. Please visit the website for detailed information on how we may assist you: www.CarolinaCounselingServices.com.
![Photo of Jessica C Lykes, LCMHC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ec1e3679-d5fe-48c5-84cd-9c9de9b7a0ad/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jessica C Lykes
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Aberdeen, NC 28315
Change at times can be difficult. I am here to help you navigate that. Having someone else to talk to other than a family member can provide a sense of comfort especially when dealing with emotional distress. I like to will work closely with the clients and their parents/guardians in order to provide the best possible tools in order to be able to create a plan for success in order to ameliorate this emotional distress or behavior problems..The ultimate goal of counseling is to establish mental equilibrium in order to live the best life possible.
Change at times can be difficult. I am here to help you navigate that. Having someone else to talk to other than a family member can provide a sense of comfort especially when dealing with emotional distress. I like to will work closely with the clients and their parents/guardians in order to provide the best possible tools in order to be able to create a plan for success in order to ameliorate this emotional distress or behavior problems..The ultimate goal of counseling is to establish mental equilibrium in order to live the best life possible.
![Photo of Healing Reflections Pllc, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9452b61b-b3d0-47e1-be6b-8e269be626a8/2/320x400.jpeg)
There are many reasons and life situations that move us toward seeking out therapy but making that decision to take the first step toward healing, for most clients, can be uncertain and often anxiety provoking. It's important for the therapists at Healing Reflections to create a compassionate and collaborative space to begin building a therapeutic relationship based on feelings of safety and a sense of trust helping clients to heal wounds, discover their purpose and feel more alive. Immediate Openings for new clients!
There are many reasons and life situations that move us toward seeking out therapy but making that decision to take the first step toward healing, for most clients, can be uncertain and often anxiety provoking. It's important for the therapists at Healing Reflections to create a compassionate and collaborative space to begin building a therapeutic relationship based on feelings of safety and a sense of trust helping clients to heal wounds, discover their purpose and feel more alive. Immediate Openings for new clients!
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Cindy W Hickman, MA, LCMHC, NCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52372c38-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Cindy W Hickman
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Southern Pines, NC 28387
I have received training in Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy (IPSRT) for managing bipolar disorders as well as certification as a clinical trauma professional.
Are you feeling stressed, overwhelmed with life, exhausted, anxious, or depressed? Have you experienced a stressful or traumatic life event? Perhaps you struggle with a chronic illness. Maybe you struggle with a difficult child or teen. Or maybe your partner has been unfaithful. Are you tired of feeling isolated and hopeless? You want- no, you need- things to change, but you don’t where to begin. Asking for help can be one of the most difficulty things to do, but I would be honored to help you discover your inner strength and begin your journey to healing and being who you are meant to be.
I have received training in Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy (IPSRT) for managing bipolar disorders as well as certification as a clinical trauma professional.
Are you feeling stressed, overwhelmed with life, exhausted, anxious, or depressed? Have you experienced a stressful or traumatic life event? Perhaps you struggle with a chronic illness. Maybe you struggle with a difficult child or teen. Or maybe your partner has been unfaithful. Are you tired of feeling isolated and hopeless? You want- no, you need- things to change, but you don’t where to begin. Asking for help can be one of the most difficulty things to do, but I would be honored to help you discover your inner strength and begin your journey to healing and being who you are meant to be.
![Photo of Tayloe Compton Moye - Be Free Therapy, LCSW, LCAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3425e0dc-bc13-4e82-9abd-7b696e00a645/2/320x400.jpeg)
Be Free Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Southern Pines, NC 28387
I have experience in working with issues related to Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, and Substance Use Disorders.
Welcome to Be Free Therapy. My name is Tayloe C. Moye, and I opened Be Free Therapy with the hope of offering a more diversified therapeutic experience. I deliver evidence-based models and I am passionate about people. My wish is to help anyone achieve a higher level of peace and joy in their life. I love nature, riding horses, gardening, and helping people find the best version of themselves. I appreciate being able to use my personal past in helping others, the way others have helped me.
I have experience in working with issues related to Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, and Substance Use Disorders.
Welcome to Be Free Therapy. My name is Tayloe C. Moye, and I opened Be Free Therapy with the hope of offering a more diversified therapeutic experience. I deliver evidence-based models and I am passionate about people. My wish is to help anyone achieve a higher level of peace and joy in their life. I love nature, riding horses, gardening, and helping people find the best version of themselves. I appreciate being able to use my personal past in helping others, the way others have helped me.
Lotus Care Psychological Services PLLC
Psychologist, PsyD , HSP-P
Verified Verified
Pinehurst, NC 28374
Lotus Care Psychological Services was established in 2022 in the Fayetteville area by Dr. Alina Contino. At Lotus Care Psychological Services we support, diagnose and empower, children, individuals and families living with the challenges of mental health conditions and disabilities. Lotus Care will provide you with resources and service referrals to help you grow in wisdom, knowledge and understanding. We want to promote your self awareness in order to treat and help you manage your life challenges the best way possible.
Lotus Care Psychological Services was established in 2022 in the Fayetteville area by Dr. Alina Contino. At Lotus Care Psychological Services we support, diagnose and empower, children, individuals and families living with the challenges of mental health conditions and disabilities. Lotus Care will provide you with resources and service referrals to help you grow in wisdom, knowledge and understanding. We want to promote your self awareness in order to treat and help you manage your life challenges the best way possible.
![Photo of Dr. Tawana Denise Helmich, EdD, LPC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fa9ec1fa-6731-4bff-94b3-536269278f5e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Tawana Denise Helmich
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, EdD, LPC
Verified Verified
Pinehurst, NC 28370 (Online Only)
As a military veteran and Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, I understand life circumstances can often leave you feeling overwhelmed and at times defeated. Know these obstacles do not have to be permanent. I strongly believe with compassion, encouragement, and vulnerability an individual can overcome life's hurdles and reach their fullest potential. I assist clients with setting realistic therapeutic goals which ultimately restores their confidence and trust not only in themselves but in others as well. My approach is to provide each client with the effective techniques required to have a well balanced self empowered life.
As a military veteran and Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, I understand life circumstances can often leave you feeling overwhelmed and at times defeated. Know these obstacles do not have to be permanent. I strongly believe with compassion, encouragement, and vulnerability an individual can overcome life's hurdles and reach their fullest potential. I assist clients with setting realistic therapeutic goals which ultimately restores their confidence and trust not only in themselves but in others as well. My approach is to provide each client with the effective techniques required to have a well balanced self empowered life.
![Photo of Donald Sanders, LCMHC, MA, MDiv](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/36ea3e3c-b2ec-49d8-842f-3f2962b655af/1/320x400.jpeg)
Donald Sanders
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, MA, MDiv
Verified Verified
Southern Pines, NC 28387 (Online Only)
I believe that everyone may experience unfortunate circumstances during their lifetime. When this happens, we may need a helping hand in managing our difficulties. It takes a brave person to ask for assistance but this is the first step in the healing process. If you would like for me to be that helping hand, please contact me. I offer Tele-Counseling at various times in order to meet the busy schedules that many people have in their lives. Please feel free to email me and request an appointment.
I believe that everyone may experience unfortunate circumstances during their lifetime. When this happens, we may need a helping hand in managing our difficulties. It takes a brave person to ask for assistance but this is the first step in the healing process. If you would like for me to be that helping hand, please contact me. I offer Tele-Counseling at various times in order to meet the busy schedules that many people have in their lives. Please feel free to email me and request an appointment.
![Photo of Luevelyn Jacobs Tillman - Greater Vision Counseling & Consulting Agency PLLC, LCSW, LCASA, TF-CBT, SOTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45f46559-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Greater Vision Counseling & Consulting Agency PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCASA, TF-CBT, SOTP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pinehurst, NC 28374
I have personal experience in the challenges of being a wife and mother. I have dealt with the struggles of deciding the courses of treatment for my children. I have endured the restless nights of stress with many factors that affect the ability to balance life and self-care. We live in difficult times but together we can find a way to navigate through to brighter days. Life experiences has brought me to this place and time to help others.
I have personal experience in the challenges of being a wife and mother. I have dealt with the struggles of deciding the courses of treatment for my children. I have endured the restless nights of stress with many factors that affect the ability to balance life and self-care. We live in difficult times but together we can find a way to navigate through to brighter days. Life experiences has brought me to this place and time to help others.
See more therapy options for Aberdeen
Nearby Bipolar Disorder Therapists Searches for Aberdeen
- Cameron
- Carthage
- Fayetteville
- Fort Bragg
- Laurinburg
- Pinehurst
- Raeford
- Rockingham
- Sanford
- Southern Pines
- Spring Lake
- Whispering Pines
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.