Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Fairfax County, VA

Photo of Ann Boyer Holmes - Ann Boyer Holmes, LCSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ann Boyer Holmes, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Centreville, VA 20120
I work with men, women and adolescents dealing with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, life transitions, alcohol abuse, domestic violence, infertility, couples/relationship issues, parenting and adjustment issues.
Would you like to become the best version of yourself? That journey begins with figuring out what you want, choosing what you believe and taking responsibility for the changes you want to make. This is a step by step process best achieved in an environment of unconditional positive regard, validation and genuineness. I use evidence-based techniques including Cognitive Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy and Interpersonal Therapy along with mindfulness, assertiveness training and relaxation techniques. I am out of network for all insurance but happy to help you navigate that process. Ask me if you qualify for a reduced fee.
I work with men, women and adolescents dealing with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, life transitions, alcohol abuse, domestic violence, infertility, couples/relationship issues, parenting and adjustment issues.
Would you like to become the best version of yourself? That journey begins with figuring out what you want, choosing what you believe and taking responsibility for the changes you want to make. This is a step by step process best achieved in an environment of unconditional positive regard, validation and genuineness. I use evidence-based techniques including Cognitive Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy and Interpersonal Therapy along with mindfulness, assertiveness training and relaxation techniques. I am out of network for all insurance but happy to help you navigate that process. Ask me if you qualify for a reduced fee.
(703) 884-2177 View (703) 884-2177
Photo of Melissa Addessi, LPC-R
Melissa Addessi
Resident in Counseling, LPC-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030  (Online Only)
I have experience working with adults and teens who experience anxiety, depression, trauma, social anxiety and bipolar disorder.
Seeking a compassionate guide for your journey? Look no further. I offer empathetic, judgment-free support to help you navigate challenges and embark on transformation. My person-centered approach ensures a tailored experience. By actively listening and asking thoughtful questions, I empower you to discover solutions that resonate with your unique needs, fostering autonomy. Using cognitive-behavioral therapy, I assist in gaining control over thoughts and behaviors. Together, we reshape negative patterns, cultivating a positive mindset. Mindfulness enhances self-awareness, providing tools for stress management.
I have experience working with adults and teens who experience anxiety, depression, trauma, social anxiety and bipolar disorder.
Seeking a compassionate guide for your journey? Look no further. I offer empathetic, judgment-free support to help you navigate challenges and embark on transformation. My person-centered approach ensures a tailored experience. By actively listening and asking thoughtful questions, I empower you to discover solutions that resonate with your unique needs, fostering autonomy. Using cognitive-behavioral therapy, I assist in gaining control over thoughts and behaviors. Together, we reshape negative patterns, cultivating a positive mindset. Mindfulness enhances self-awareness, providing tools for stress management.
(571) 777-0233 View (571) 777-0233
Photo of Alicia Margarita Funes, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alicia Margarita Funes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Reston, VA 20190
I specialize in treating Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, Depression, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
Therapy is a method of improving daily functioning by acquiring self-motivation through gaining insight, establishing boundaries, and embracing positive and challenging emotional states. You will learn to trust yourself, enhance your self-compassion, recognize your strengths, and discover the gifts with which you have been blessed. I have extensive experience working with individuals of all ages, including children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I have worked in diverse settings, including inpatient and outpatient care, home-based counseling, residential treatment centers, hospitals, private practice, and schools.
I specialize in treating Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, Depression, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
Therapy is a method of improving daily functioning by acquiring self-motivation through gaining insight, establishing boundaries, and embracing positive and challenging emotional states. You will learn to trust yourself, enhance your self-compassion, recognize your strengths, and discover the gifts with which you have been blessed. I have extensive experience working with individuals of all ages, including children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I have worked in diverse settings, including inpatient and outpatient care, home-based counseling, residential treatment centers, hospitals, private practice, and schools.
(571) 520-4674 View (571) 520-4674
Photo of Teri Bistarkey, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Teri Bistarkey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Herndon, VA 20171
I have many years of experience working with people with depression and anxiety as well as bipolar and schizophrenia.
Feeling like you can't quite keep it together? Sometimes we get overwhelmed with the stresses in life and need help sorting them out. Maybe you've just hit a low point or feeling overly worried and anxious. Talking to a therapist has helped many people who are feeling the same way. The last two years have been more than difficult, and people are struggling. I help people figure out what's working well for them and what's not. Then we explore together the many strengths and skills you already have and can use to overcome the problems life throws at us.
I have many years of experience working with people with depression and anxiety as well as bipolar and schizophrenia.
Feeling like you can't quite keep it together? Sometimes we get overwhelmed with the stresses in life and need help sorting them out. Maybe you've just hit a low point or feeling overly worried and anxious. Talking to a therapist has helped many people who are feeling the same way. The last two years have been more than difficult, and people are struggling. I help people figure out what's working well for them and what's not. Then we explore together the many strengths and skills you already have and can use to overcome the problems life throws at us.
(434) 813-6641 View (434) 813-6641
Photo of Dr. Aaliyah Gibbons, PsyD, PSYPACT, Psychologist
Dr. Aaliyah Gibbons
Psychologist, PsyD, PSYPACT
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with trauma, PTSD, addiction, eating disorders, bipolar disorder, BPD, or grief? I am here to help clients work through significant life stressors and emotional experiences. Even in the most difficult of circumstances, I try to help my clients find hope and learn the skills necessary to create a life they truly enjoy. My ideal client will appreciate an honest, direct approach that also emphasizes humor and creativity for a truly unique therapy experience.
Are you struggling with trauma, PTSD, addiction, eating disorders, bipolar disorder, BPD, or grief? I am here to help clients work through significant life stressors and emotional experiences. Even in the most difficult of circumstances, I try to help my clients find hope and learn the skills necessary to create a life they truly enjoy. My ideal client will appreciate an honest, direct approach that also emphasizes humor and creativity for a truly unique therapy experience.
(703) 782-3603 View (703) 782-3603
Photo of Anabelle Kumbe Hwang, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anabelle Kumbe Hwang
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030  (Online Only)
Anabelle Hwang is a dedicated Licensed Clinical Social Worker committed to providing compassionate and effective therapy to adults to overcome a variety of mental health challenges. Her expertise encompasses the treatment of mood-related concerns, post-traumatic stress, and Bipolar, with a focus on serving clients from diverse cultural backgrounds. Grounded in the belief that therapy is a collaborative journey, Anabelle fosters a secure and trusting relationship with her clients. She tailors her approach to meet the unique needs of each individual, drawing from a variety of evidence-based therapeutic modalities.
Anabelle Hwang is a dedicated Licensed Clinical Social Worker committed to providing compassionate and effective therapy to adults to overcome a variety of mental health challenges. Her expertise encompasses the treatment of mood-related concerns, post-traumatic stress, and Bipolar, with a focus on serving clients from diverse cultural backgrounds. Grounded in the belief that therapy is a collaborative journey, Anabelle fosters a secure and trusting relationship with her clients. She tailors her approach to meet the unique needs of each individual, drawing from a variety of evidence-based therapeutic modalities.
(571) 200-7703 x420 View (571) 200-7703 x420
Photo of Alexandra Roth, LCSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alexandra Roth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Falls Church, VA 22046
Through over twenty-five years experience with diagnoses like bipolar disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, depression, and OCD I have developed a client-centered and collaborative style.
What I'm especially good at is helping people get clarity about their relationships and their boundaries. This means I work well with individuals in difficult marriages, children and parents trying to establish adult bonds, codependent people, and with anyone who wants warmer, happier, more peaceful interactions in their life. If you can't figure out why your relationships go off the rails, I can help. I like to work with adults, teens and parents, couples, minor-attracted persons (pedophiles), LGBTQ folks and people who don't know why they feel bad.
Through over twenty-five years experience with diagnoses like bipolar disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, depression, and OCD I have developed a client-centered and collaborative style.
What I'm especially good at is helping people get clarity about their relationships and their boundaries. This means I work well with individuals in difficult marriages, children and parents trying to establish adult bonds, codependent people, and with anyone who wants warmer, happier, more peaceful interactions in their life. If you can't figure out why your relationships go off the rails, I can help. I like to work with adults, teens and parents, couples, minor-attracted persons (pedophiles), LGBTQ folks and people who don't know why they feel bad.
(703) 997-1274 View (703) 997-1274
Photo of Dan McDonald, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dan McDonald
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS
Verified Verified
Falls Church, VA 22046
I have experience counseling a wide variety of clients, including individuals diagnosed with depressive/anxiety/bipolar disorders, ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, substance use disorders, and mild intellectual disabilities, adults frustrated or dissatisfied by their current job, and teenagers struggling with the academic and social demands of high school.
I specialize in working with individuals who feel stuck, anxious, or depressed, and couples who are looking to improve their relationship. I help my individual clients overcome depression and anxiety, increase self-confidence, establish healthy relationships, increase career satisfaction, and heal from trauma. I help couples improve communication, increase understanding, and rebuild trust. I use a nonjudgmental, empathic approach, working calmly and collaboratively. I incorporate techniques from a variety of counseling models such as cognitive-behavioral, existential, family systems, and attachment theories.
I have experience counseling a wide variety of clients, including individuals diagnosed with depressive/anxiety/bipolar disorders, ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, substance use disorders, and mild intellectual disabilities, adults frustrated or dissatisfied by their current job, and teenagers struggling with the academic and social demands of high school.
I specialize in working with individuals who feel stuck, anxious, or depressed, and couples who are looking to improve their relationship. I help my individual clients overcome depression and anxiety, increase self-confidence, establish healthy relationships, increase career satisfaction, and heal from trauma. I help couples improve communication, increase understanding, and rebuild trust. I use a nonjudgmental, empathic approach, working calmly and collaboratively. I incorporate techniques from a variety of counseling models such as cognitive-behavioral, existential, family systems, and attachment theories.
(571) 777-0065 View (571) 777-0065
Photo of Cynthia Diane Stroud, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cynthia Diane Stroud
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Herndon, VA 20170
Years of experience with helping clients with anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD, Bipolar, loss and grief, stress, relationships, separation & divorce, LGBT, ACOA, Codependency, postpartum depression, etc.
A Licensed Professional Therapist holding a Master’s Degree in Social Work from Virginia Commonwealth University and a BA in Psychology. Experienced providing therapy for over 25 years helping all individuals with a variety of concerns and issues. Telehealth and/or phone sessions available, flexible hours. Compassion and empathy to all clients at all times meeting each person wherever they are in their journey of healing. I believe that everyone is capable of change, and by giving you my best, we will work together bring out the best in you!
Years of experience with helping clients with anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD, Bipolar, loss and grief, stress, relationships, separation & divorce, LGBT, ACOA, Codependency, postpartum depression, etc.
A Licensed Professional Therapist holding a Master’s Degree in Social Work from Virginia Commonwealth University and a BA in Psychology. Experienced providing therapy for over 25 years helping all individuals with a variety of concerns and issues. Telehealth and/or phone sessions available, flexible hours. Compassion and empathy to all clients at all times meeting each person wherever they are in their journey of healing. I believe that everyone is capable of change, and by giving you my best, we will work together bring out the best in you!
(571) 380-7652 View (571) 380-7652
Photo of Ayrielle Williams - The Peaceful Place, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
The Peaceful Place
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vienna, VA 22182
The Peaceful Place hosts a diverse group of therapists who are passionate about helping clients heal and tap into their power! Our therapists host a wide range of specialties such as Sex Therapy, Trauma Therapy, Substance Dependence/Abuse, and personality disorders! Our expert clinicians treat several mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, narcissistic personality disorder, antisocial personality disorder, addictions, intimacy issues, sexual issues/dysfunctions. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with one of our amazing clinicians!
The Peaceful Place hosts a diverse group of therapists who are passionate about helping clients heal and tap into their power! Our therapists host a wide range of specialties such as Sex Therapy, Trauma Therapy, Substance Dependence/Abuse, and personality disorders! Our expert clinicians treat several mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, narcissistic personality disorder, antisocial personality disorder, addictions, intimacy issues, sexual issues/dysfunctions. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with one of our amazing clinicians!
(571) 200-1836 View (571) 200-1836
Photo of Ben Thomas, MEd, LPC, CSAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ben Thomas
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, CSAC
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030
I have experience supporting people in recovery, addressing issues related to depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder.
I am a clinician with over 30 years combined experience in the fields of substance abuse and mental health. I have worked for a number of years assisting adults find recovery in an outpatient substance abuse setting. In more recent years, I have worked with people of all ages experiencing a mental health and/or substance abuse crisis. I use a client centered approach and I am familiar with other treatment modalities such as cognitive behavior therapy.
I have experience supporting people in recovery, addressing issues related to depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder.
I am a clinician with over 30 years combined experience in the fields of substance abuse and mental health. I have worked for a number of years assisting adults find recovery in an outpatient substance abuse setting. In more recent years, I have worked with people of all ages experiencing a mental health and/or substance abuse crisis. I use a client centered approach and I am familiar with other treatment modalities such as cognitive behavior therapy.
(571) 520-9567 View (571) 520-9567
Photo of Seth Yavit - Art Therapist - Dc And Va, LPC, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Seth Yavit - Art Therapist - Dc And Va
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030
Are you struggling to build or maintain relationships, manage emotions, or adjust to life's challenges? Depression, anxiety, anger, autism, schizophrenia, bipolar, and other disorders can be challenging to face alone. Therapy can help you build coping skills that you can use to overcome your challenges. While trauma can cause great pain in your life, learning the tools to become more positive and more focused can turn those defeats into the very things that build perseverance. I have helped clients of all ages overcome challenges to unlock more fulfilling lives. So reach out, I look forward to helping.
Are you struggling to build or maintain relationships, manage emotions, or adjust to life's challenges? Depression, anxiety, anger, autism, schizophrenia, bipolar, and other disorders can be challenging to face alone. Therapy can help you build coping skills that you can use to overcome your challenges. While trauma can cause great pain in your life, learning the tools to become more positive and more focused can turn those defeats into the very things that build perseverance. I have helped clients of all ages overcome challenges to unlock more fulfilling lives. So reach out, I look forward to helping.
(202) 217-1193 View (202) 217-1193
Photo of Sofia Anna Crowe, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sofia Anna Crowe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Annandale, VA 22003  (Online Only)
Clinical focus includes ADHD, child/adult, parenting and family concerns, young adulthood issues, post-COVID, depression, anxiety, bipolar and chronic medical issues, addiction, co-occurring issues and a variety of couples and family issues.
I have worked as a clinician for 23 years. I have a Master's from the U of MD Social Work program. My training is wide ranging and I worked in many settings, including a county-wide suicide hotline, with adolescents in crisis, and outpatient and in-home therapy, and for an AZ Native Tribal Nation. I use multiple modalities in my at-home practice, including DBT (group and individual) CBT and schema, ACT, Strength based and Imago/communication focused couples therapy, multi-systemic and strategic family therapy. I work to match therapy to your needs.
Clinical focus includes ADHD, child/adult, parenting and family concerns, young adulthood issues, post-COVID, depression, anxiety, bipolar and chronic medical issues, addiction, co-occurring issues and a variety of couples and family issues.
I have worked as a clinician for 23 years. I have a Master's from the U of MD Social Work program. My training is wide ranging and I worked in many settings, including a county-wide suicide hotline, with adolescents in crisis, and outpatient and in-home therapy, and for an AZ Native Tribal Nation. I use multiple modalities in my at-home practice, including DBT (group and individual) CBT and schema, ACT, Strength based and Imago/communication focused couples therapy, multi-systemic and strategic family therapy. I work to match therapy to your needs.
(804) 596-4564 View (804) 596-4564
Photo of Bridget Kanz, CP, Psychologist
Bridget Kanz
Psychologist, CP
Verified Verified
Oakton, VA 22124
My name is Bridget Kanz and I am a licensed clinical psychologist. I believe that every person has the desire and capacity to live a full and healthy life. My goal as a therapist is to provide you with the support and skills needed to realize your potential. I have worked with a wide variety of clients throughout my career and am very comfortable treating many conditions including anxiety/panic, PTSD, bipolar, schizophrenia, schizoaffective, substance use, personality disorders, and depression.
My name is Bridget Kanz and I am a licensed clinical psychologist. I believe that every person has the desire and capacity to live a full and healthy life. My goal as a therapist is to provide you with the support and skills needed to realize your potential. I have worked with a wide variety of clients throughout my career and am very comfortable treating many conditions including anxiety/panic, PTSD, bipolar, schizophrenia, schizoaffective, substance use, personality disorders, and depression.
(571) 605-6421 View (571) 605-6421
Photo of Robert Phillips, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Robert Phillips
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Springfield, VA 22153
My experiences are with adults suffering from substance use, anxiety disorders, bipolar, schizophrenia disorders, anger issues, children and adults suffering from ADHD, and autism spectrum.
My name is Robert Phillips. I hold an LPC license from the state of Virginia and am a Certified Substance Abuse Professional with CSAC - A certificate. My approach is to build a strong therapeutic relationship, stay focused on the client in the present moment without judgment, help people gain skills and tools for managing complicated situations, and encourage a spirit of openness, curiosity, and acceptance to help individuals understand they can choose to respond rationally and control behaviors
My experiences are with adults suffering from substance use, anxiety disorders, bipolar, schizophrenia disorders, anger issues, children and adults suffering from ADHD, and autism spectrum.
My name is Robert Phillips. I hold an LPC license from the state of Virginia and am a Certified Substance Abuse Professional with CSAC - A certificate. My approach is to build a strong therapeutic relationship, stay focused on the client in the present moment without judgment, help people gain skills and tools for managing complicated situations, and encourage a spirit of openness, curiosity, and acceptance to help individuals understand they can choose to respond rationally and control behaviors
(757) 993-4881 View (757) 993-4881
Photo of Michael T. Greelis, PhD, LPC, LMFT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michael T. Greelis
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Herndon, VA 20170
I provide counseling services to adolescents, adults, and preteens. I see people for individual, family, and couples counseling. Services for individuals address the following conditions: depression; bipolar disorder (in conjunction with a psychiatrist); trauma and grief; disruptive behavior including anger problems; substance abuse; and work/professional problems involving mood or other behavioral problems.
I provide counseling services to adolescents, adults, and preteens. I see people for individual, family, and couples counseling. Services for individuals address the following conditions: depression; bipolar disorder (in conjunction with a psychiatrist); trauma and grief; disruptive behavior including anger problems; substance abuse; and work/professional problems involving mood or other behavioral problems.
(703) 935-5782 View (703) 935-5782
Photo of Allison Kacmar, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Allison Kacmar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Springfield, VA 22153  (Online Only)
"There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you" Maya Angelou. Words have power, words build the world around us, your story has power. As a clinician I do not just treat depression, anxiety, trauma etc. I treat the person experiencing the symptoms of those diagnoses. I want to know your story, to help you regain control of your story, & help you write the next chapters of your life with joy instead of fear, frustration, or negativity. Trauma is my specialty, however I treat most mental health disorders - particularly depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, aging related disorders, & family therapy.
"There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you" Maya Angelou. Words have power, words build the world around us, your story has power. As a clinician I do not just treat depression, anxiety, trauma etc. I treat the person experiencing the symptoms of those diagnoses. I want to know your story, to help you regain control of your story, & help you write the next chapters of your life with joy instead of fear, frustration, or negativity. Trauma is my specialty, however I treat most mental health disorders - particularly depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, aging related disorders, & family therapy.
(571) 357-5136 View (571) 357-5136
Photo of Jing Yuan, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jing Yuan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030  (Online Only)
I treat individuals with anxiety, depression, bipolar, trauma and relationship problems.
Welcome! Thank you for taking the time to care for your mental health! Although I don’t know what you are going through, I’m convinced that you are ready to take more control of your life. It will be my honor to work alongside you during this meaningful journey.
I treat individuals with anxiety, depression, bipolar, trauma and relationship problems.
Welcome! Thank you for taking the time to care for your mental health! Although I don’t know what you are going through, I’m convinced that you are ready to take more control of your life. It will be my honor to work alongside you during this meaningful journey.
(571) 946-6597 View (571) 946-6597
Photo of Scarlete Johnson, LPC, CSAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Scarlete Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CSAC
Verified Verified
Reston, VA 20191  (Online Only)
I have walked alongside others on journeys to healing from depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, domestic abuse, childhood trauma, sex trauma, drug and alcohol addiction, workplace related trauma, low self worth, self hate, grief and through manufactured emotions such as guilt and shame.
I have been in the field of mental health for the last 15 years doing case management, intensive in home therapy, substance use disorder counseling, intensive outpatient and outpatient therapy. I enjoy working with adolescents and adults ranging in age from 14 years and up. I am aware of cultural, religious, and ethnic differences and take on an individualized approach tailored to fit the specific needs of person in treatment. I do what I do because I believe that humans are neither fundamentally good or bad but the product of their experiences that have taught them something about the world, others and most importantly, themselves.
I have walked alongside others on journeys to healing from depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, domestic abuse, childhood trauma, sex trauma, drug and alcohol addiction, workplace related trauma, low self worth, self hate, grief and through manufactured emotions such as guilt and shame.
I have been in the field of mental health for the last 15 years doing case management, intensive in home therapy, substance use disorder counseling, intensive outpatient and outpatient therapy. I enjoy working with adolescents and adults ranging in age from 14 years and up. I am aware of cultural, religious, and ethnic differences and take on an individualized approach tailored to fit the specific needs of person in treatment. I do what I do because I believe that humans are neither fundamentally good or bad but the product of their experiences that have taught them something about the world, others and most importantly, themselves.
(571) 946-6920 View (571) 946-6920
Joan Rockwell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakton, VA 22124  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have experience treating a broad range of issues including depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, relationship issues, life transition issues, work-related issues, stress management, self-esteem issues. I also work with co-occurring disorders and with couples who are struggling in their relationships due to addictive behaviors. When indicated, I work collaboratively with other therapists to maximize therapeutic benefits.
I have experience treating a broad range of issues including depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, relationship issues, life transition issues, work-related issues, stress management, self-esteem issues. I also work with co-occurring disorders and with couples who are struggling in their relationships due to addictive behaviors. When indicated, I work collaboratively with other therapists to maximize therapeutic benefits.
(540) 908-3815 View (540) 908-3815

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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.