Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Castle Hayne, NC

Photo of Kristin Hammond, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristin Hammond
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Castle Hayne, NC 28429
Hello! It's great to meet you! My name is Kristin Hammond, and I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 23 years of clinical experience working with adults, couples, and some adolescence. I work with many issues, including anxiety, health anxiety, panic, depression, life stressors, family dysfunction, relationship issues, self-esteem, and other emotional and behavioral issues. I mainly draw from Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Holistic, Mindfulness-Based (MBCT), Solution Focused Brief (SFBT), and Supportive therapies. I believe one of the biggest keys to success in treatment is having a connection with your therapist.
Hello! It's great to meet you! My name is Kristin Hammond, and I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 23 years of clinical experience working with adults, couples, and some adolescence. I work with many issues, including anxiety, health anxiety, panic, depression, life stressors, family dysfunction, relationship issues, self-esteem, and other emotional and behavioral issues. I mainly draw from Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Holistic, Mindfulness-Based (MBCT), Solution Focused Brief (SFBT), and Supportive therapies. I believe one of the biggest keys to success in treatment is having a connection with your therapist.
(336) 999-6951 View (336) 999-6951
Photo of Char Boyette, LCAS, EMDRIA, CCS, MDiv, JD, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Char Boyette
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCAS, EMDRIA, CCS, MDiv, JD
Verified Verified
Castle Hayne, NC 28429
Everyone's story is unique and every person deserves an individualized approach to their problems. Initially we will complete an assessment. Then we become partners in your therapeutic journey. If you have been suffering alone or found past attempts unsatisfactory, please contact me. The therapeutic relationship we develop will be the cornerstone of your wellness journey. I will do everything I can to support you in feeling safe and respected to share. I strive to provide a setting that will allows you to do this. I am open to your input and welcome your feedback as we progress on the path of your renewed happiness.
Everyone's story is unique and every person deserves an individualized approach to their problems. Initially we will complete an assessment. Then we become partners in your therapeutic journey. If you have been suffering alone or found past attempts unsatisfactory, please contact me. The therapeutic relationship we develop will be the cornerstone of your wellness journey. I will do everything I can to support you in feeling safe and respected to share. I strive to provide a setting that will allows you to do this. I am open to your input and welcome your feedback as we progress on the path of your renewed happiness.
(828) 450-2919 View (828) 450-2919
Photo of Joseph Rengifo - Wilmington Mental Health, LCMHC, LCAS, LCSW, NPMHNP, FNP, Counselor
Wilmington Mental Health
Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS, LCSW, NPMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Castle Hayne, NC 28429
Wilmington Mental Health (WMH) provides evidence-based and person-centered treatment to residents of Southeastern North Carolina. Our mission is to offer accessible universal mental health treatment so that everyone in our community has access to the services they need, when and where they need them. WMH integrates multiple therapeutic techniques to create optimal patient experience. WMH understands that life presents difficulties that can reduce the quality of life and happiness of those in our community. These challenges can be detrimental if left on unresolved. Hence, it is critical that access to mental health care exist when individuals need it most. WMH has developed a platform that provides therapeutic support for teenagers, college students, adults, couples, and families. Our compassionate counselors are ready to meet with you to help you resolve challenges and move forward in your life. Get on the road to recovery with Wilmington Mental Health Today! Book a confidential consultation, call 910-777-5575 or email us at info@wmhwc.com.
Wilmington Mental Health (WMH) provides evidence-based and person-centered treatment to residents of Southeastern North Carolina. Our mission is to offer accessible universal mental health treatment so that everyone in our community has access to the services they need, when and where they need them. WMH integrates multiple therapeutic techniques to create optimal patient experience. WMH understands that life presents difficulties that can reduce the quality of life and happiness of those in our community. These challenges can be detrimental if left on unresolved. Hence, it is critical that access to mental health care exist when individuals need it most. WMH has developed a platform that provides therapeutic support for teenagers, college students, adults, couples, and families. Our compassionate counselors are ready to meet with you to help you resolve challenges and move forward in your life. Get on the road to recovery with Wilmington Mental Health Today! Book a confidential consultation, call 910-777-5575 or email us at info@wmhwc.com.
(910) 909-4408 View (910) 909-4408
Photo of Dawn Richard Cook, MA, LCMHC
Dawn Richard Cook
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Castle Hayne, NC 28429
Not accepting new clients
A colleague once told me that sometimes you just have to validate your client by saying "life sucks". Hi, welcome, I am happy you are here! I have been working in the field of mental health for over 20 years. My experience includes a variety of work settings, including community mental health, school guidance, contract mental health and private practice. Along with my psychiatric facility dog RUPP, I use an integrated, person-centered approach to therapy that first establishes therapeutic rapport to determine goals and objectives.
A colleague once told me that sometimes you just have to validate your client by saying "life sucks". Hi, welcome, I am happy you are here! I have been working in the field of mental health for over 20 years. My experience includes a variety of work settings, including community mental health, school guidance, contract mental health and private practice. Along with my psychiatric facility dog RUPP, I use an integrated, person-centered approach to therapy that first establishes therapeutic rapport to determine goals and objectives.
(910) 446-6382 View (910) 446-6382

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Andrew Robert Brady, LCMHC, LCAS
Andrew Robert Brady
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28401  (Online Only)
My clinical experience includes working with adults with ADHD, bipolar, anxiety, relationship stressors, grief, divorce/separation, substance abuse, and addressing overall life adjustments that can be scary to handle on your own. I work with clients who desire to have a deeper understanding of life's challenges and who want to have the tools necessary to manage whatever life has to throw at them.
My clinical experience includes working with adults with ADHD, bipolar, anxiety, relationship stressors, grief, divorce/separation, substance abuse, and addressing overall life adjustments that can be scary to handle on your own. I work with clients who desire to have a deeper understanding of life's challenges and who want to have the tools necessary to manage whatever life has to throw at them.
(910) 773-4556 View (910) 773-4556
Photo of Serena Faison, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Serena Faison
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28401  (Online Only)
I help with stress-anxiety, self-esteem, motivation, Bipolar Depression, Depression, Coping with Life-Changes Addictions, LGBT, Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Trauma and abuse, Grief, Intimacy-related issues, Eating disorders, Sleeping disorders, Parenting issues, Anger management, Career difficulties, Spiritual Coaching, Compassion fatigue, & ADHD.
I am licensed in North Carolina with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence, bipolar disorder, & depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change.
I help with stress-anxiety, self-esteem, motivation, Bipolar Depression, Depression, Coping with Life-Changes Addictions, LGBT, Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Trauma and abuse, Grief, Intimacy-related issues, Eating disorders, Sleeping disorders, Parenting issues, Anger management, Career difficulties, Spiritual Coaching, Compassion fatigue, & ADHD.
I am licensed in North Carolina with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence, bipolar disorder, & depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change.
(910) 634-3204 View (910) 634-3204
Photo of Samantha Quiel, MSW, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Samantha Quiel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
My specialties include depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, life transitions, chronic illness, and survivors of interpersonal violence.
Accepting New Clients-I believe that we all face unique challenges throughout our lives. I provide a space for you to authentically be yourself, without judgment. I aim to forge a trusting relationship to help you feel comfortable discussing your most protected thoughts and feelings. I provide support as we process through tough times, ask questions, and work with you to find solutions to your challenges. There are no quick fixes, but developing life skills, improving self-respect, and connecting with loved ones can be key in building a positive path for your future. We will create a custom treatment plan that works best for you.
My specialties include depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, life transitions, chronic illness, and survivors of interpersonal violence.
Accepting New Clients-I believe that we all face unique challenges throughout our lives. I provide a space for you to authentically be yourself, without judgment. I aim to forge a trusting relationship to help you feel comfortable discussing your most protected thoughts and feelings. I provide support as we process through tough times, ask questions, and work with you to find solutions to your challenges. There are no quick fixes, but developing life skills, improving self-respect, and connecting with loved ones can be key in building a positive path for your future. We will create a custom treatment plan that works best for you.
(919) 289-4023 View (919) 289-4023
Photo of Sophia Caudle - Bull City Psychotherapy, PLLC, PhD, LPC-S, LCSW, LCAS, CSAT-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bull City Psychotherapy, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, LCSW, LCAS, CSAT-S
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28403
Our areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, bipolar, trauma, sex addiction, pornography addiction, substance abuse, LGBTQ.
Welcome to Bull City Psychotherapy. We are a caring group of psychotherapists who are passionate about helping others improve their moods, improve relationships, and recover from addictions. We offer a private and comfortable environment for our work with you, so you can feel safe and at ease. We are all highly trained in our areas of expertise, and we value our clients achieving their goals and moving forward. We believe in effective therapy that works.
Our areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, bipolar, trauma, sex addiction, pornography addiction, substance abuse, LGBTQ.
Welcome to Bull City Psychotherapy. We are a caring group of psychotherapists who are passionate about helping others improve their moods, improve relationships, and recover from addictions. We offer a private and comfortable environment for our work with you, so you can feel safe and at ease. We are all highly trained in our areas of expertise, and we value our clients achieving their goals and moving forward. We believe in effective therapy that works.
(919) 698-7061 View (919) 698-7061
Photo of Isabell Fasnacht, MSW, LCSW-A, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Isabell Fasnacht
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-A
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28405
My goal as your therapist is to provide a non-judgemental and supportive therapeutic environment where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. I place great importance on establishing a strong therapeutic alliance based on trust and collaboration. I aim to meet you where you are at in your journey to help you gain insight and awareness and identify strengths and solutions in order to accomplish your goals. I help clients with a variety of issues including but not limited to anxiety, depression, bipolar, relationship issues, behavioral issues, and stressful life transitions.
My goal as your therapist is to provide a non-judgemental and supportive therapeutic environment where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. I place great importance on establishing a strong therapeutic alliance based on trust and collaboration. I aim to meet you where you are at in your journey to help you gain insight and awareness and identify strengths and solutions in order to accomplish your goals. I help clients with a variety of issues including but not limited to anxiety, depression, bipolar, relationship issues, behavioral issues, and stressful life transitions.
(910) 812-1057 View (910) 812-1057
Photo of Mary M Godin, MA, LPA, LCMHC, Psychological Associate
Mary M Godin
Psychological Associate, MA, LPA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
I work with children, adolescents, and adults utilizing cognitive-behavioral therapy and cognitive interpersonal therapy. I strive to develop a trusting and nonjudgmental atmosphere in which clients can grow to reach their potential and work through difficult times. I have worked in outpatient mental health for over 20 years with a variety of mental disorders including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, attachment disorders, autistic spectrum disorders, ADHD and other childhood behavioral disorders.
I work with children, adolescents, and adults utilizing cognitive-behavioral therapy and cognitive interpersonal therapy. I strive to develop a trusting and nonjudgmental atmosphere in which clients can grow to reach their potential and work through difficult times. I have worked in outpatient mental health for over 20 years with a variety of mental disorders including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, attachment disorders, autistic spectrum disorders, ADHD and other childhood behavioral disorders.
(910) 679-4733 View (910) 679-4733
Photo of Kristyn Martinez, LCMHC
Kristyn Martinez
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28401  (Online Only)
Expert in guiding clients through bipolar, psychosis, dissociative, and mood disorders, I offer strategies for healing and coping, fostering success and well-being.
Reaching out for help is a courageous step, and I admire your strength. As a grounded and approachable therapist, I'm here to meet you where you are on your journey. Together, we'll work to lighten your load and navigate your path forward with compassion and understanding. If you're seeking a guide to support and empower you towards your goals, I'm ready to start this journey with you. Let's unlock your resilience and foster the change you desire.
Expert in guiding clients through bipolar, psychosis, dissociative, and mood disorders, I offer strategies for healing and coping, fostering success and well-being.
Reaching out for help is a courageous step, and I admire your strength. As a grounded and approachable therapist, I'm here to meet you where you are on your journey. Together, we'll work to lighten your load and navigate your path forward with compassion and understanding. If you're seeking a guide to support and empower you towards your goals, I'm ready to start this journey with you. Let's unlock your resilience and foster the change you desire.
(910) 727-4171 View (910) 727-4171
Kim Rubin Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28401
I see clients with depression, anxiety, ASD, PTSD, Bipolar, individual, couples and families. I will work with you to focus on your needs, your goals and how to achieve them. Addressing struggles in life is difficult and seeking support from a therapist is a great start to gain clarity, peace and making choices for yourself.
I see clients with depression, anxiety, ASD, PTSD, Bipolar, individual, couples and families. I will work with you to focus on your needs, your goals and how to achieve them. Addressing struggles in life is difficult and seeking support from a therapist is a great start to gain clarity, peace and making choices for yourself.
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Photo of Dr. Michael Stinnett, PsyD, LP, HSP-P, Psychologist
Dr. Michael Stinnett
Psychologist, PsyD, LP, HSP-P
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28401
Oceanview Mental Health & Wellness may be a great fit for you if you're seeking a safe, affirming space to address mental health concerns like anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, gender dysphoria, ADHD, etc. You likely value culturally responsive, trauma-informed care and want a provider who understands the impact of systemic injustices on your well-being. Your goals likely include achieving emotional well-being, building resilience, and enhancing your overall quality of life. You'll appreciate my compassionate approach, delivering high-quality mental health care, and my dedication to social justice issues.
Oceanview Mental Health & Wellness may be a great fit for you if you're seeking a safe, affirming space to address mental health concerns like anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, gender dysphoria, ADHD, etc. You likely value culturally responsive, trauma-informed care and want a provider who understands the impact of systemic injustices on your well-being. Your goals likely include achieving emotional well-being, building resilience, and enhancing your overall quality of life. You'll appreciate my compassionate approach, delivering high-quality mental health care, and my dedication to social justice issues.
(984) 422-3803 View (984) 422-3803
Photo of Jessica Taylor Dean, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Jessica Taylor Dean
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFT
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28405
I enjoy working with couples wanting to enhance their relationship, recover from affairs, increase their emotional intimacy, or have other goals that might pertain to a couple. I also enjoy utilizing play therapy, where children and adolescents can utilize toys and sand trays to process current or past experiences, including traumatic events, as well as increase their self-awareness and self-esteem. Finally, I appreciate working with generalized anxiety, social anxiety, bipolar disorder, self-esteem/identity issues, spiritual issues, relational issues, family issues, and stressful life transitions.
I enjoy working with couples wanting to enhance their relationship, recover from affairs, increase their emotional intimacy, or have other goals that might pertain to a couple. I also enjoy utilizing play therapy, where children and adolescents can utilize toys and sand trays to process current or past experiences, including traumatic events, as well as increase their self-awareness and self-esteem. Finally, I appreciate working with generalized anxiety, social anxiety, bipolar disorder, self-esteem/identity issues, spiritual issues, relational issues, family issues, and stressful life transitions.
(910) 406-6525 x335 View (910) 406-6525 x335
Photo of Nicole Merrigan, MA, LPA, Psychological Associate
Nicole Merrigan
Psychological Associate, MA, LPA
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28401  (Online Only)
Clients who reach out to me are either their worst critic, ready and willing but may lack particular skills, or both. Self-acceptance is a needed foundation. It is important for people to learn to accept themselves and their emotions, thoughts, and behaviors, making room for being uncomfortable; while also learning to regulate or change behaviors when it is needed to do so. Whether the issue is depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, emotion dysregulation, trauma/PTSD, ADHD, or substance use, I have a set of skills that will be helpful.
Clients who reach out to me are either their worst critic, ready and willing but may lack particular skills, or both. Self-acceptance is a needed foundation. It is important for people to learn to accept themselves and their emotions, thoughts, and behaviors, making room for being uncomfortable; while also learning to regulate or change behaviors when it is needed to do so. Whether the issue is depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, emotion dysregulation, trauma/PTSD, ADHD, or substance use, I have a set of skills that will be helpful.
(910) 543-2878 View (910) 543-2878
Photo of Lynanne Romano, PsyD, Psychologist
Lynanne Romano
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28403  (Online Only)
Dr. Romano is a licensed and dedicated clinical psychologist treating Adult ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Trauma, and Depression. With a Psy.D. from Immaculata University and over fifteen years of experience in mental health, she brings a wealth of expertise and a compassionate, relatable approach to her practice. Dr. Romano establishes a strong connection with clients, fostering a safe and supportive environment for growth and healing. Her evidence-based treatments are personalized to meet the unique needs of each individual, ensuring a holistic and empowering therapeutic experience.
Dr. Romano is a licensed and dedicated clinical psychologist treating Adult ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Trauma, and Depression. With a Psy.D. from Immaculata University and over fifteen years of experience in mental health, she brings a wealth of expertise and a compassionate, relatable approach to her practice. Dr. Romano establishes a strong connection with clients, fostering a safe and supportive environment for growth and healing. Her evidence-based treatments are personalized to meet the unique needs of each individual, ensuring a holistic and empowering therapeutic experience.
(910) 541-9780 View (910) 541-9780
Photo of Gloria M Brown, MA, LPA, Psychological Associate
Gloria M Brown
Psychological Associate, MA, LPA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
I am a licensed therapist with 25+ years of experience. I see adults and adolescents who are ready to work on issues that have a negative impact on their lives and emotional health. I combine a holistic mind/body/spirit approach using positive, solution-focused therapy methods, as well as cognitive behavioral strategies and the many tools from the 12-Step Programs. I work with individuals having problems with addiction, alcoholism, anxiety, panic attacks, social anxiety, anger, bipolar I and II disorders, cyclothymic disorder, depression, chronic pain and health issues, kleptomania, excoriation, self-injury, trichotillomania, schizophrenia, ADHD, OCD, and PTSD.
I am a licensed therapist with 25+ years of experience. I see adults and adolescents who are ready to work on issues that have a negative impact on their lives and emotional health. I combine a holistic mind/body/spirit approach using positive, solution-focused therapy methods, as well as cognitive behavioral strategies and the many tools from the 12-Step Programs. I work with individuals having problems with addiction, alcoholism, anxiety, panic attacks, social anxiety, anger, bipolar I and II disorders, cyclothymic disorder, depression, chronic pain and health issues, kleptomania, excoriation, self-injury, trichotillomania, schizophrenia, ADHD, OCD, and PTSD.
(910) 499-4712 View (910) 499-4712
Photo of Carol Kirby, MS, LCMHC
Carol Kirby
MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28411
I have experience with a wide variety of issues including overcoming damaging effects of life experiences, anxiety, depression, anger management, PTSD, impulse control, bipolar disorder, parenting skills, stress management, grieving, relationship skills, self esteem, and spirituality.
If you think about it, your mental health is probably the most important thing you have. Without it, there is not a lot left. I like to work collaboratively in helping others grow and deepen themselves and their self esteem to make a stronger, self empowered individual of your own design. I have found that with support, insight, and building a strong identity, people feel more free and happy, not depending on others for happiness. I mostly do Individual therapy with adults and older teens.
I have experience with a wide variety of issues including overcoming damaging effects of life experiences, anxiety, depression, anger management, PTSD, impulse control, bipolar disorder, parenting skills, stress management, grieving, relationship skills, self esteem, and spirituality.
If you think about it, your mental health is probably the most important thing you have. Without it, there is not a lot left. I like to work collaboratively in helping others grow and deepen themselves and their self esteem to make a stronger, self empowered individual of your own design. I have found that with support, insight, and building a strong identity, people feel more free and happy, not depending on others for happiness. I mostly do Individual therapy with adults and older teens.
(910) 400-1161 View (910) 400-1161
Photo of Courtney Howard Ind. Contractor @ Deep Connections Counseling, MS, LCMHCA
Courtney Howard Ind. Contractor @ Deep Connections Counseling
MS, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403  (Online Only)
Life can be…a bit of a rollercoaster at times and can often feel unmanageable. If you find yourself becoming bogged down by life’s twists and turns, I’m here to help! My name is Courtney Howard and I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in the state of North Carolina. My mission is to provide a safe space for you to explore, repair, and grow. Taking the steps to begin a counseling journey isn’t easy and I’m proud of you for searching for a therapist to fit your needs. Are you stressed, depressed, anxious, suffering with illness, grieving, or struggling with mood? Then I may be the perfect fit for you!
Life can be…a bit of a rollercoaster at times and can often feel unmanageable. If you find yourself becoming bogged down by life’s twists and turns, I’m here to help! My name is Courtney Howard and I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in the state of North Carolina. My mission is to provide a safe space for you to explore, repair, and grow. Taking the steps to begin a counseling journey isn’t easy and I’m proud of you for searching for a therapist to fit your needs. Are you stressed, depressed, anxious, suffering with illness, grieving, or struggling with mood? Then I may be the perfect fit for you!
(252) 486-5072 View (252) 486-5072
Photo of Amarilia Martinez-Cordova, LCAS, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Amarilia Martinez-Cordova
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403  (Online Only)
Struggling with substance use, navigating dynamics with a family member with substance use, or experiencing religious trauma or domestic violence? I'm here to help. As a therapist specializing in substance use therapy and family support, I offer a safe space for healing and growth. With a deep understanding of the challenges faced by Spanish-speaking clients, I provide therapy in both English and Spanish. Having personally experienced the transition from Puerto Rico to the United States as a young adult, I bring empathy and cultural sensitivity to my practice.
Struggling with substance use, navigating dynamics with a family member with substance use, or experiencing religious trauma or domestic violence? I'm here to help. As a therapist specializing in substance use therapy and family support, I offer a safe space for healing and growth. With a deep understanding of the challenges faced by Spanish-speaking clients, I provide therapy in both English and Spanish. Having personally experienced the transition from Puerto Rico to the United States as a young adult, I bring empathy and cultural sensitivity to my practice.
(910) 857-5043 View (910) 857-5043

See more therapy options for Castle Hayne

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.