Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Shawnee, OK

Photo of Angela Lacynda Phillips - Olive Branch Behavioral Health Counseling Services, HRM, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Olive Branch Behavioral Health Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, HRM, LPC
Verified Verified
Shawnee, OK 74801
Waitlist for new clients
I love clients with eclectic issues, needs, and goals. I enjoy the deepest of issues that a person desires to find answers to. Sexual addiction, Marital problems, Parental help,and teenagers that are troubled and need a helping hand. I love to collaboratte with clients that desire to enhance a better and healthier life.
I love clients with eclectic issues, needs, and goals. I enjoy the deepest of issues that a person desires to find answers to. Sexual addiction, Marital problems, Parental help,and teenagers that are troubled and need a helping hand. I love to collaboratte with clients that desire to enhance a better and healthier life.
(405) 873-7236 View (405) 873-7236
Photo of Theresa R Yu, MS, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Theresa R Yu
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Shawnee, OK 74804
I am a clinical director and independent contractor. I provide online telehealth, home-based & office-based counseling services with children, teens, and families with history of trauma/abuse/neglect, special needs, Autism Spectrum Disorders/Aspergers, and other behavioral problems/issues. I use traditional approaches and biofeedback approaches. I also works with adults, couples and families for a variety of issues. I have worked in several fields including as a social worker, foster/adoptive specialist for DHS, Elem. School Special Education paraprofessional, pre-k teacher, and behavioral health rehabilitation/case manager.
I am a clinical director and independent contractor. I provide online telehealth, home-based & office-based counseling services with children, teens, and families with history of trauma/abuse/neglect, special needs, Autism Spectrum Disorders/Aspergers, and other behavioral problems/issues. I use traditional approaches and biofeedback approaches. I also works with adults, couples and families for a variety of issues. I have worked in several fields including as a social worker, foster/adoptive specialist for DHS, Elem. School Special Education paraprofessional, pre-k teacher, and behavioral health rehabilitation/case manager.
(405) 458-8874 View (405) 458-8874
Photo of Serena Ward, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Serena Ward
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Shawnee, OK 74804
In sessions, I work to listen deeply and create an accepting atmosphere. There, you can become curious about your thoughts, feelings and actions, explore how your past is influencing your life today and confront the repeating patterns of emotional reaction and behavior that get in the way of your finding satisfaction in your relationships and work. In my practice, I work with individuals with anxiety, depression, problems of adjustment to stages of life, work related stress, relationship problems, transitions and coping with the effects of trauma.
In sessions, I work to listen deeply and create an accepting atmosphere. There, you can become curious about your thoughts, feelings and actions, explore how your past is influencing your life today and confront the repeating patterns of emotional reaction and behavior that get in the way of your finding satisfaction in your relationships and work. In my practice, I work with individuals with anxiety, depression, problems of adjustment to stages of life, work related stress, relationship problems, transitions and coping with the effects of trauma.
(405) 300-4485 View (405) 300-4485
Photo of Kelly Veeley, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kelly Veeley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shawnee, OK 74801
Hey there! I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist who works with clients age 17 and older; individuals, couples, and any relationships are welcome. I believe that people are capable of change and growth, and you will have a safe space with me to explore just exactly how that will look for you. I've dealt with everything you can think of, so nothing is off the table. All issues are welcome. This is a space for you to feel loving kindness and to be heard without judgment. Let me guide you into healing today.
Hey there! I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist who works with clients age 17 and older; individuals, couples, and any relationships are welcome. I believe that people are capable of change and growth, and you will have a safe space with me to explore just exactly how that will look for you. I've dealt with everything you can think of, so nothing is off the table. All issues are welcome. This is a space for you to feel loving kindness and to be heard without judgment. Let me guide you into healing today.
(405) 725-2353 View (405) 725-2353
Photo of Valari Jett, MS, LMFT-C, Pre-Licensed Professional
Valari Jett
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, LMFT-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shawnee, OK 74804
Life often throws hurdles at us. Sometimes it can be challenging to reach out for help. Therapy is a safe place to share your experiences in a non-judgmental environment, and it can be healing to express your feelings and experiences in this safe place.
Life often throws hurdles at us. Sometimes it can be challenging to reach out for help. Therapy is a safe place to share your experiences in a non-judgmental environment, and it can be healing to express your feelings and experiences in this safe place.
(405) 963-5386 View (405) 963-5386
Photo of Mary Brazier - Advocates for Change Family Services, PLLC, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Advocates for Change Family Services, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Shawnee, OK 74801
I enjoy working with individuals and families who are on a journey to find more emotional health and healing from past trauma. My mission with families is to re-engage with communication, healing, forgiveness and acceptance of each other to heal relationship needs. My goal is to help individuals find self acceptance, with emotional healing to manage anxiety, depression, anger, and low self worth. I find that most people need a sense of support and acceptance in order to grow and overcome issues with Aging, Family Reconciliation, Divorce, Domestic Trauma, Depression, Physical Health. All clients are met with compassion here.
I enjoy working with individuals and families who are on a journey to find more emotional health and healing from past trauma. My mission with families is to re-engage with communication, healing, forgiveness and acceptance of each other to heal relationship needs. My goal is to help individuals find self acceptance, with emotional healing to manage anxiety, depression, anger, and low self worth. I find that most people need a sense of support and acceptance in order to grow and overcome issues with Aging, Family Reconciliation, Divorce, Domestic Trauma, Depression, Physical Health. All clients are met with compassion here.
(405) 645-7631 View (405) 645-7631
Photo of Juanita Pearl Marshall, MSHR, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Juanita Pearl Marshall
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSHR, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shawnee, OK 74801
I work with clients of all ages and backgrounds. I enjoy helping individuals with issues such as ADHD, ADD, anxiety, depression, and anger. I also have experience with children and teens with ADHD, ADD, ODD, low self esteem and much more. I am neurofeedback trained and EMDR trained, which gives me the ability to treat trauma along with behavioral issues. By treating the two together we are able to fix the core issues along with the behavioral issues. I love clients with eclectic issues, goals, and needs and collaborating with them to achieve these goals and enhance their lives.
I work with clients of all ages and backgrounds. I enjoy helping individuals with issues such as ADHD, ADD, anxiety, depression, and anger. I also have experience with children and teens with ADHD, ADD, ODD, low self esteem and much more. I am neurofeedback trained and EMDR trained, which gives me the ability to treat trauma along with behavioral issues. By treating the two together we are able to fix the core issues along with the behavioral issues. I love clients with eclectic issues, goals, and needs and collaborating with them to achieve these goals and enhance their lives.
(405) 451-1347 View (405) 451-1347
Photo of Kathleen Niblack - Cobblestone Counseling Services LLC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cobblestone Counseling Services LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Shawnee, OK 74801  (Online Only)
Our mission is to provide a compassionate and confidential atmosphere to discuss personal concerns for all those seeking help. Through individual, family, teen, couples, and group counseling, our hope is that each person will come to appreciate the uniqueness of their personalities and find new avenues of self discovery.
Our mission is to provide a compassionate and confidential atmosphere to discuss personal concerns for all those seeking help. Through individual, family, teen, couples, and group counseling, our hope is that each person will come to appreciate the uniqueness of their personalities and find new avenues of self discovery.
(405) 880-8821 View (405) 880-8821
Photo of Tiara Donn Kruta, MS, LPC-C, Pre-Licensed Professional
Tiara Donn Kruta
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, LPC-C
Verified Verified
Shawnee, OK 74801
Are you an individual who has been having trouble but does not know what's going on? Do you have struggles with communicating how you feel and processing it? I want to be able to help individuals that need some support to be able to communicate and process their negative emotions. I understand that sometimes we need someone that is supportive and willing to listen. I am here to do both of those. I am able to help you identify your problems and bring light to it. If you're ready to take the first step and ask for help I am here to walk the journey with you.
Are you an individual who has been having trouble but does not know what's going on? Do you have struggles with communicating how you feel and processing it? I want to be able to help individuals that need some support to be able to communicate and process their negative emotions. I understand that sometimes we need someone that is supportive and willing to listen. I am here to do both of those. I am able to help you identify your problems and bring light to it. If you're ready to take the first step and ask for help I am here to walk the journey with you.
(405) 955-2514 View (405) 955-2514

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Shaya Harris, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shaya Harris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tecumseh, OK 74873
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have a background in community mental health. I have experience with a variety of diagnoses ranging from anxiety to schizophrenia. I have a passion for trauma but enjoy working with a variety of issues. I am eclectic with my approach and like to meet the client where they are at by utilizing various therapeutic modalities. I also consider myself very solution-focused and there's nothing more satisfying than having the privilege of walking with my clients on their journey to reach their goals.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have a background in community mental health. I have experience with a variety of diagnoses ranging from anxiety to schizophrenia. I have a passion for trauma but enjoy working with a variety of issues. I am eclectic with my approach and like to meet the client where they are at by utilizing various therapeutic modalities. I also consider myself very solution-focused and there's nothing more satisfying than having the privilege of walking with my clients on their journey to reach their goals.
(405) 963-3035 View (405) 963-3035

Online Therapists

Photo of Brittany Lovick, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brittany Lovick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oklahoma City, OK 73116
Throughout her career, she has gained insight and experience into how to help others struggling with loss and grief, chronic and terminal illness, aging concerns, trauma, low self-esteem, shame, guilt, family stressors, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and more.
Brittany Lovick is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Oklahoma who has been practicing since 2012. She has a B.A. in Human Development with an emphasis in counseling from California State University San Marcos and a Master of Social Work from San Diego State University. Brittany has worked in various settings, such as long-term care, hospice, along with inpatient and outpatient mental health care settings.
Throughout her career, she has gained insight and experience into how to help others struggling with loss and grief, chronic and terminal illness, aging concerns, trauma, low self-esteem, shame, guilt, family stressors, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and more.
Brittany Lovick is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Oklahoma who has been practicing since 2012. She has a B.A. in Human Development with an emphasis in counseling from California State University San Marcos and a Master of Social Work from San Diego State University. Brittany has worked in various settings, such as long-term care, hospice, along with inpatient and outpatient mental health care settings.
(405) 956-2516 View (405) 956-2516
Photo of Stacie L Ridley, MS, LPC, CGIP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stacie L Ridley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CGIP
Verified Verified
Broken Arrow, OK 74011  (Online Only)
I specialize in anxiety, depression, PTSD, grief, addiction issues, anger issues, women issues, domestic violence, stress, Bipolar, BPD, guilt, shame, mood disorders, codependency, and self-harm.
Healthy Mindset Therapy, LLC is a Native American, female owned practice that is committed to assisting and providing competent therapeutic counseling to children, adults and their families. Healthy Mindset Therapy, LLC seeks to fulfill its mission through partnerships with schools, courts, probation and various other agencies in the state of Oklahoma. The mission of Healthy Mindset Therapy, LLC is to promote individual and family strengths and resources, engaging health and wellness, and guide mental health and addiction recovery for the betterment of individual and family life. Healthy Mindset Therapy, LLC is d
I specialize in anxiety, depression, PTSD, grief, addiction issues, anger issues, women issues, domestic violence, stress, Bipolar, BPD, guilt, shame, mood disorders, codependency, and self-harm.
Healthy Mindset Therapy, LLC is a Native American, female owned practice that is committed to assisting and providing competent therapeutic counseling to children, adults and their families. Healthy Mindset Therapy, LLC seeks to fulfill its mission through partnerships with schools, courts, probation and various other agencies in the state of Oklahoma. The mission of Healthy Mindset Therapy, LLC is to promote individual and family strengths and resources, engaging health and wellness, and guide mental health and addiction recovery for the betterment of individual and family life. Healthy Mindset Therapy, LLC is d
(918) 265-1988 View (918) 265-1988
Photo of Autumn Slaughter, PhD, Psychologist
Autumn Slaughter
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Tulsa, OK 74119
I have extensive experience in treating problems and concerns that include trauma, PTSD, treatment-resistant depression, bipolar, borderline, anxiety, and other personality disorders.
Now Accepting New Clients. You may have always felt like an outsider, but you still have the innate human desire to find comfort and companionship. In times of disconnect & loneliness, it can be tempting to build poor boundaries to keep people close, perhaps you look for a sense of control by acting out or you seek refuge away from others through isolation. We will work to build the skills you need to live a life that fits within your values. Together we will recognize and understand the patterns in your life, explore ways to change those patterns, learn techniques to help you cope with life, and learn to navigate it more smoothly.
I have extensive experience in treating problems and concerns that include trauma, PTSD, treatment-resistant depression, bipolar, borderline, anxiety, and other personality disorders.
Now Accepting New Clients. You may have always felt like an outsider, but you still have the innate human desire to find comfort and companionship. In times of disconnect & loneliness, it can be tempting to build poor boundaries to keep people close, perhaps you look for a sense of control by acting out or you seek refuge away from others through isolation. We will work to build the skills you need to live a life that fits within your values. Together we will recognize and understand the patterns in your life, explore ways to change those patterns, learn techniques to help you cope with life, and learn to navigate it more smoothly.
(918) 900-1511 View (918) 900-1511
Photo of Ronald Butler, LPC , Licensed Professional Counselor
Ronald Butler
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Broken Arrow, OK 74012
I'm looking forward to meeting with you to assist with mood disorders, depression, bipolar disorders, anxiety, adult ADHD, and other stress related issues.
Ronnie Butler, LPC - Licensed Professional Counselor In Oklahoma, Texas, & New Mexico (LPCC). I've been practicing Counseling/Psychotherapy for over 25 years. I also hold an endorsement from the Oklahoma Board of Behavioral Health as a Clinical Supervisor for LPC Interns. My approach to therapy can best be described as multi-disciplinary, eclectic, with solid foundations in Client-Centered and Cognitive Behavioral models. Establishing trust in our therapeutic relationship is crucial to facilitate positive changes, achieve goals for treatment, and help you realize your potential.
I'm looking forward to meeting with you to assist with mood disorders, depression, bipolar disorders, anxiety, adult ADHD, and other stress related issues.
Ronnie Butler, LPC - Licensed Professional Counselor In Oklahoma, Texas, & New Mexico (LPCC). I've been practicing Counseling/Psychotherapy for over 25 years. I also hold an endorsement from the Oklahoma Board of Behavioral Health as a Clinical Supervisor for LPC Interns. My approach to therapy can best be described as multi-disciplinary, eclectic, with solid foundations in Client-Centered and Cognitive Behavioral models. Establishing trust in our therapeutic relationship is crucial to facilitate positive changes, achieve goals for treatment, and help you realize your potential.
(918) 972-1542 View (918) 972-1542
Photo of Cristopher Hicks, MSW,  LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cristopher Hicks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tulsa, OK 74133
As a therapist for more than 20 years, Cris has a passion to help people from a variety of social and cultural backgrounds work through challenges due to phase of life adjustments. He has a Master of Science in Social Work from the University of Texas at Austin and is a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW). In addition, he has completed decades of further post-graduate training and education. Cris has broad experience counseling adults facing depression, anxiety, phobias, grief and loss issues, trauma and bipolar disorder.
As a therapist for more than 20 years, Cris has a passion to help people from a variety of social and cultural backgrounds work through challenges due to phase of life adjustments. He has a Master of Science in Social Work from the University of Texas at Austin and is a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW). In addition, he has completed decades of further post-graduate training and education. Cris has broad experience counseling adults facing depression, anxiety, phobias, grief and loss issues, trauma and bipolar disorder.
(918) 601-4073 View (918) 601-4073
Photo of Alicia Jarman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alicia Jarman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oklahoma City, OK 73112
I specialize in Abuse & Trauma (Physical, Sexual, & Emotional), trauma due to violent crime, Bipolar, Depression, Grief & Loss, Mood & Anxiety Disorders, Marriage Conflict, Panic Disorders, Anger management, Parenting Challenges, Postpartum Depression, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Self-Esteem Issues, Sexual Dysfunction, and Stress Management.
Life can be a struggle at times. I have great respect for anyone who's willing to be vulnerable during the therapeutic process so they can meet their goals. I have devoted my life to helping people heal & bring balance back to their lives. I provide individual therapy by using a wide range of tools & techniques, I help people overcome obstacles within themselves & in their relationships. I've worked with clients to successfully address a wide variety of challenges related to interpersonal, home, family, & romantic relationships.
I specialize in Abuse & Trauma (Physical, Sexual, & Emotional), trauma due to violent crime, Bipolar, Depression, Grief & Loss, Mood & Anxiety Disorders, Marriage Conflict, Panic Disorders, Anger management, Parenting Challenges, Postpartum Depression, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Self-Esteem Issues, Sexual Dysfunction, and Stress Management.
Life can be a struggle at times. I have great respect for anyone who's willing to be vulnerable during the therapeutic process so they can meet their goals. I have devoted my life to helping people heal & bring balance back to their lives. I provide individual therapy by using a wide range of tools & techniques, I help people overcome obstacles within themselves & in their relationships. I've worked with clients to successfully address a wide variety of challenges related to interpersonal, home, family, & romantic relationships.
(405) 562-9581 View (405) 562-9581
Photo of Melissa Rupprecht, MA,  LPC, Candida, CDSVRP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Melissa Rupprecht
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LPC, Candida, CDSVRP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tulsa, OK 74136
I work with ADHD, depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Traumas, Victims/ Survivors of Domestic Violence & Sexual assault, Teen dating violence, stalking, dissociative identity disorder, bipolar disorders, eating disorders and more.
I became a therapist because I want to help people through their traumas and sufferings. I am dedicated to helping individuals overcome obstacles that are holding them back from their full potential and helping families strengthen their communication with each other and identify obstacles and relational patterns that weaken the familial bonds. I work with ADHD, depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Traumas, Victims/ Surviors of Domestic Violence & Sexual assault, Teen dating violence, stalking, borderline personality disorder, dissociative identity disorder, bipolar disorders and more. I work with people 12+.
I work with ADHD, depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Traumas, Victims/ Survivors of Domestic Violence & Sexual assault, Teen dating violence, stalking, dissociative identity disorder, bipolar disorders, eating disorders and more.
I became a therapist because I want to help people through their traumas and sufferings. I am dedicated to helping individuals overcome obstacles that are holding them back from their full potential and helping families strengthen their communication with each other and identify obstacles and relational patterns that weaken the familial bonds. I work with ADHD, depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Traumas, Victims/ Surviors of Domestic Violence & Sexual assault, Teen dating violence, stalking, borderline personality disorder, dissociative identity disorder, bipolar disorders and more. I work with people 12+.
(918) 238-8045 View (918) 238-8045
Photo of Cynthia T McCoy - Cynthia T McCoy LPC Emotional Wellness Counseling, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cynthia T McCoy LPC Emotional Wellness Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Oklahoma City, OK 73120
My name is Cynthia Tobar-McCoy and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in New Mexico and Oklahoma. I am honored each day to walk along side individuals who choose to therapuetically journey through the path of overcoming life stressors. Stressors can come in the form of experiencing conflict in relationships with family, couples, marital and peer groups, as well as grief, trauma and suffering from posttraumatic stress. Stress can also manifest itself when working to maintain a healthy recovery plan that addresses certain medical conditions of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and obsessive compulsive disorder.
My name is Cynthia Tobar-McCoy and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in New Mexico and Oklahoma. I am honored each day to walk along side individuals who choose to therapuetically journey through the path of overcoming life stressors. Stressors can come in the form of experiencing conflict in relationships with family, couples, marital and peer groups, as well as grief, trauma and suffering from posttraumatic stress. Stress can also manifest itself when working to maintain a healthy recovery plan that addresses certain medical conditions of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and obsessive compulsive disorder.
(405) 335-0955 View (405) 335-0955
Photo of Amy Bartel, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Amy Bartel
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Norman, OK 73072  (Online Only)
Specializing in Treating: Stress, Trauma/PTSD (physical/sexual/emotional abuse), Depression and Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety/Panic, Relationship Issues, Life Transitions, Grief/Loss, Eating Disorders, OCD, Women's Issues/Fertility, Spiritual Issues, & support for personal goals/coaching.
A Holistic Healing Model That Includes All of You. You are Much More Than You Think You Are! Questions To Consider: ​Are you dealing with trauma and stress? Do you wish you had tools to transform your mood and mindset from negative to positive? Do you wonder who you would be without your current worries and problems? Do you have a feeling that there is something bigger and more meaningful that you are here to do? Are you struggling to understand your inner world but keep creating the same situations over and over again?
Specializing in Treating: Stress, Trauma/PTSD (physical/sexual/emotional abuse), Depression and Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety/Panic, Relationship Issues, Life Transitions, Grief/Loss, Eating Disorders, OCD, Women's Issues/Fertility, Spiritual Issues, & support for personal goals/coaching.
A Holistic Healing Model That Includes All of You. You are Much More Than You Think You Are! Questions To Consider: ​Are you dealing with trauma and stress? Do you wish you had tools to transform your mood and mindset from negative to positive? Do you wonder who you would be without your current worries and problems? Do you have a feeling that there is something bigger and more meaningful that you are here to do? Are you struggling to understand your inner world but keep creating the same situations over and over again?
(405) 993-4318 View (405) 993-4318
Photo of Melissa R Baldwin, MA, LPC, LADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Melissa R Baldwin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LADC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Enid, OK 73703
Hi! I am a therapist in private practice who is experienced in providing therapy for clients who struggle with multiple issues including Mood disorders (depression, anxiety), Bipolar disorders, trauma, relationships, addictions, and substance abuse. I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and families. My style of therapy is client centered with a focus on education. In therapy, I use a multi-disciplinary approach with evidenced based practices to help you achieve your goals. In therapy, we work together to achieve the changes you have been wanting. I look forward to hearing from you soon!
Hi! I am a therapist in private practice who is experienced in providing therapy for clients who struggle with multiple issues including Mood disorders (depression, anxiety), Bipolar disorders, trauma, relationships, addictions, and substance abuse. I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and families. My style of therapy is client centered with a focus on education. In therapy, I use a multi-disciplinary approach with evidenced based practices to help you achieve your goals. In therapy, we work together to achieve the changes you have been wanting. I look forward to hearing from you soon!
(580) 609-4089 View (580) 609-4089
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.