Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Whispering Pines, NC
![Photo of Suzanne Gabrielle Martin, PsyD, ABPP, MPH, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4cb7f5dc-2bc4-4770-bb63-8c92fad53f93/2/320x400.jpeg)
Suzanne Gabrielle Martin
Psychologist, PsyD, ABPP, MPH
Verified Verified
Whispering Pines, NC 28327 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My approach to therapy is rooted in empathy, respect, and collaboration. I believe that each person's story is unique, and I am here to provide a safe and non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences. Together, we will work towards understanding your concerns, identifying your strengths, and developing effective coping strategies. I understand that seeking therapy can be both exciting and daunting. Whether you are dealing with specific challenges, facing a life transition, or simply seeking personal growth, I am committed to supporting you throughout this process. I value the therapeutic relat
My approach to therapy is rooted in empathy, respect, and collaboration. I believe that each person's story is unique, and I am here to provide a safe and non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences. Together, we will work towards understanding your concerns, identifying your strengths, and developing effective coping strategies. I understand that seeking therapy can be both exciting and daunting. Whether you are dealing with specific challenges, facing a life transition, or simply seeking personal growth, I am committed to supporting you throughout this process. I value the therapeutic relat
![Photo of Devon Burnore, MS, LCMHC, LCAS, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5e8431f2-dadc-41c0-a5b6-6c9e4247de90/1/320x400.png)
My name is Devon Burnore, I am a licensed professional counselor and a licensed clinical addictions specialist. My counseling style is client centered and works to empower and create internal growth, strength and resiliency. I am open and accepting and have experience with a variety of clients including military, couples, families and medically compromised. I have over 15 years of experience working in the field of mental health in a variety of settings and enjoy helping others. My goal is for you to leave the session feeling supported and armed with the tools to begin improving your over all well-being.
My name is Devon Burnore, I am a licensed professional counselor and a licensed clinical addictions specialist. My counseling style is client centered and works to empower and create internal growth, strength and resiliency. I am open and accepting and have experience with a variety of clients including military, couples, families and medically compromised. I have over 15 years of experience working in the field of mental health in a variety of settings and enjoy helping others. My goal is for you to leave the session feeling supported and armed with the tools to begin improving your over all well-being.
![Photo of Shay Jones, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f85aabd6-2488-40c6-a450-bd5c083f0102/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shay Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Whispering Pines, NC 28327 (Online Only)
I am licensed in both Washington state and North Carolina. My clinical background is primarily working with adults who have experienced trauma and relationship issues which present in anxiety, depression, grief/loss and other areas of concern. I pull from various modalities including psychodynamic therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and grief therapy.
I am licensed in both Washington state and North Carolina. My clinical background is primarily working with adults who have experienced trauma and relationship issues which present in anxiety, depression, grief/loss and other areas of concern. I pull from various modalities including psychodynamic therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and grief therapy.
![Photo of Susan Kay Byerly - Byerly Christian Psychotherapy, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50ca995f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Byerly Christian Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Whispering Pines, NC 28327
Don’t Just Survive, Learn To Thrive. If you are experiencing worry, anxiety, sadness, or trouble with relationships, I can help you overcome and deal with these issues. I have been helping clients with similar issues since 1995.
Don’t Just Survive, Learn To Thrive. If you are experiencing worry, anxiety, sadness, or trouble with relationships, I can help you overcome and deal with these issues. I have been helping clients with similar issues since 1995.
![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
Whispering Pines, NC 28327 (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 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
Whispering Pines, NC 28327
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 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
Whispering Pines, NC 28327
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.
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.
![Photo of Brandon Patrick Couch, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/271e8eed-d31c-470c-8913-97437744fc1b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Brandon Patrick Couch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Southern Pines, NC 28387
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 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
Southern Pines, NC 28387
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 Debra Bergman, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/999a6bce-a933-460f-b5ce-72c2af2e0a05/1/320x400.png)
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 30 years of clinical experience. I have extensive experience working with individuals with issues like anxiety, depression, impulse control, addiction, chronic and life-threatening illness, life transitions, grief and loss, relationship/family problems, stress management, and job stress. I combine a variety of modalities, perspectives, and techniques including client-centered, cognitive behavioral, existential, humanistic, mindfulness, solution-focused, somatic, and trauma-informed care. My mission is to help you manage stress and find more balance in your life.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 30 years of clinical experience. I have extensive experience working with individuals with issues like anxiety, depression, impulse control, addiction, chronic and life-threatening illness, life transitions, grief and loss, relationship/family problems, stress management, and job stress. I combine a variety of modalities, perspectives, and techniques including client-centered, cognitive behavioral, existential, humanistic, mindfulness, solution-focused, somatic, and trauma-informed care. My mission is to help you manage stress and find more balance in your life.
![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
Southern Pines, NC 28387
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 Patricia A Flowers - Enhanced Care Counseling & Consulting Services, LCMHC, CAS](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c24ccdac-ae19-4ecf-a7a6-2069414f56c7/2/320x400.png)
Enhanced Care Counseling & Consulting Services
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, CAS
Verified Verified
Southern Pines, NC 28387
I am an experienced Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor who is dedicated to individuals from all walks of life cope with anxiety, depression etc. I am friendly and compassionate to all and everyone I meet. My counseling process involves a collaborative relationship between client and counselor in an open environment where my clients is free to share their thoughts and feelings honestly. Thus, your active participation and personal and personal work outside of session are essential for counseling to be effective. I may ask you to try various things outside of the counseling hour to help you reach your goal.
I am an experienced Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor who is dedicated to individuals from all walks of life cope with anxiety, depression etc. I am friendly and compassionate to all and everyone I meet. My counseling process involves a collaborative relationship between client and counselor in an open environment where my clients is free to share their thoughts and feelings honestly. Thus, your active participation and personal and personal work outside of session are essential for counseling to be effective. I may ask you to try various things outside of the counseling hour to help you reach your goal.
![Photo of Kris Anthony Barton - Outreach Journey Counseling, MSW, LCSW, LCASA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4688fb78-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Outreach Journey Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCASA
Verified Verified
Southern Pines, NC 28387
I believe in the power of self-determination and advocating for others who cannot advocate for themselves. Every person is unique to their core and require special attention in order to reach their full potential. I have personally overcome many life challenges that shook me to my very core. I have worked in a variety of social environments that has helped me to become the person I am today - fun, energetic and outgoing. I love working with others, learning from others and learning from each other. I look forward in meeting new folks and learning life from other's perspectives.
I believe in the power of self-determination and advocating for others who cannot advocate for themselves. Every person is unique to their core and require special attention in order to reach their full potential. I have personally overcome many life challenges that shook me to my very core. I have worked in a variety of social environments that has helped me to become the person I am today - fun, energetic and outgoing. I love working with others, learning from others and learning from each other. I look forward in meeting new folks and learning life from other's perspectives.
![Photo of Robyn Mirassou - Divine Wellness Therapeutic Center, MA, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1e2efc9a-e62d-4fee-b6ed-d75009fab1e0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Divine Wellness Therapeutic Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Pinehurst, NC 28374
Life can be hard sometimes. At times we have no idea how to get through what we are going through. It is okay to ask for help. Here at Divine Wellness Therapeutic Center, we believe in giving you a safe, non-judgmental environment to walk the journey of healing. "Facilitating the Healing of Invisible Wounds". We have an interdisciplinary team of Clinical Mental Health Therapists, Marriage and Family Therapists, Social Workers, Massage Therapists and Play Therapy Certified Therapists ready to guide you through any situation that you are facing.
Life can be hard sometimes. At times we have no idea how to get through what we are going through. It is okay to ask for help. Here at Divine Wellness Therapeutic Center, we believe in giving you a safe, non-judgmental environment to walk the journey of healing. "Facilitating the Healing of Invisible Wounds". We have an interdisciplinary team of Clinical Mental Health Therapists, Marriage and Family Therapists, Social Workers, Massage Therapists and Play Therapy Certified Therapists ready to guide you through any situation that you are facing.
![Photo of Denise Dauval - Be Herd LLC, ES](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/460d86a3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
The traditional office environment is not for everyone. We offer real therapy in a beautiful farm setting where our clients have the opportunity to work with the horses, take a walk around the farm and experience the peaceful setting. Our therapist utilize all the techniques of talk therapy in addition to treatment models incorporating animals. We customize our sessions to meet your needs and our hope is to make you as comfortable as possible so that you are able to focus on the changes you are looking for. We work with children ages 6 years and up, adolescents, adults, couples, and families.
The traditional office environment is not for everyone. We offer real therapy in a beautiful farm setting where our clients have the opportunity to work with the horses, take a walk around the farm and experience the peaceful setting. Our therapist utilize all the techniques of talk therapy in addition to treatment models incorporating animals. We customize our sessions to meet your needs and our hope is to make you as comfortable as possible so that you are able to focus on the changes you are looking for. We work with children ages 6 years and up, adolescents, adults, couples, and families.
![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
Southern Pines, NC 28387
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 Samantha Moore, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ad27b421-a91a-4784-9bbb-b9a70a1f0cb2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Samantha Moore
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Southern Pines, NC 28387 (Online Only)
Now accepting new clients! Are you struggling with feeling insecure in yourself and your relationships? Are you wanting to strengthen your connections and find your place? My ideal clients are seeking connection, authenticity, and purpose. It is my belief that when we are authentically connected, we are our happiest, truest selves. I aim to create an authentic connection in my sessions with my clients in order to heal relational difficulty. If you are looking for the safe space to explore, grow, and challenge yourself, I would love to work with you.
Now accepting new clients! Are you struggling with feeling insecure in yourself and your relationships? Are you wanting to strengthen your connections and find your place? My ideal clients are seeking connection, authenticity, and purpose. It is my belief that when we are authentically connected, we are our happiest, truest selves. I aim to create an authentic connection in my sessions with my clients in order to heal relational difficulty. If you are looking for the safe space to explore, grow, and challenge yourself, I would love to work with you.
![Photo of Denise Frutchey, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a239dbd4-09a3-4aaa-869c-79d052259349/1/320x400.png)
I have been a licensed clinical psychologist for over 35 years. I have devoted my career to working with clients of all ages who come to me with some form of emotional distress or problems in living. I help them to understand the cause of their pain, educate about the importance of healthy boundaries and guide them to find relief and workable solutions. To this end I use family of origin therapy, psychodynamic therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy and EMDR. I address such concerns as anxiety and depression, panic, trauma, self-esteem and couples and family conflict.
I have been a licensed clinical psychologist for over 35 years. I have devoted my career to working with clients of all ages who come to me with some form of emotional distress or problems in living. I help them to understand the cause of their pain, educate about the importance of healthy boundaries and guide them to find relief and workable solutions. To this end I use family of origin therapy, psychodynamic therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy and EMDR. I address such concerns as anxiety and depression, panic, trauma, self-esteem and couples and family conflict.
See more therapy options for Whispering Pines
Nearby Bipolar Disorder Therapists Searches for Whispering Pines
- Aberdeen
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- Fayetteville
- Fort Bragg
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Bipolar Disorder Therapists
What is the most successful approach to treating bipolar disorder?
Living with bipolar disorder can be challenging, and a number of therapies have been found effective in providing support to patients as they gain the skills to understand and manage the disorder. Family-focused therapy is often helpful for children and teens (the majority of cases develop before age 19); it aims to minimize mood cycling by improving family communication and reducing conflict. It also helps young people navigate the developmental challenges the disorder can create. Cognitive and behavioral therapy (CBT) and variants such as Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)help patients manage the thoughts and feelings that influence bipolar mood swings as well as develop specific behavioral strategies to counteract them.
What happens in therapy for bipolar disorder?
Because the patterns of mood switching and its triggers differ for each person and can change over time, mood tracking or monitoring becomes a basic way patients learn about the nature of their condition. One of the most common features of therapy is finding a workable method of mood monitoring, in which patients track their daily activities and rate their moods, then use the findings to adjust routines accordingly. Patients learn ways of handling the many stresses that arise in life so that they do not trigger mood swings.
What kinds of problems does therapy help with?
Like many other mental health disorders, BPD is heavily influenced by stress; therapy provides skills for coping with stressors of all kinds. Therapy is extremely important for helping individuals identify the situations that may trigger mood switching, so that mood swings can be prevented. Therapy may especially target recognition of the early stages of mood change so that they can be managed. In addition, therapy helps patients deal with the significant amount of turbulence the disorder can create in relationships and in work life.
What is the goal of therapy for bipolar disorder?
Therapy helps patients set up their lives to maintain stability so that their mood isn’t constantly threatened by daily events. Perhaps the first task of therapy is to educate people about the nature of the disorder. At the same time, a primary goal of therapy is to enhance adherence to drug treatment. Extended periods of mood stability can prompt patients to discontinue medication, triggering relapse, while the early phases of manic episodes can feel so energizing that patients stop medication, ushering in full-blown mania and the altered self-perception that can lead to destructive behaviors. Another major goal of therapy is to understand one’s mood patterns so as to minimize both the frequency and intensity of mood cycling.