Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Richmond, VA

Photo of Tameka Boone, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tameka Boone
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23230
Tameka Boone is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who has over 10 years of experience in the mental health field and has worked extensively with people diagnosed with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, and disorders on the schizophrenia and personality disorder spectrums.
Tameka Boone is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who has over 10 years of experience in the mental health field and has worked extensively with people diagnosed with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, and disorders on the schizophrenia and personality disorder spectrums.
(804) 369-8985 View (804) 369-8985
Photo of Sarah Mines, LPC, MSEd, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sarah Mines
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MSEd
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23235
I have experience with a wide range of troubles including (but not limited to) adjustments to life changes, anxiety, depression, Bipolar Disorder, women's issues, persons in helping professions, trauma, and LGBTQIA+ issues.
Therapy is a place where we are allowed to be raw, imperfect, vulnerable humans in a society that expects us to be flawlessly composed. I focus my practice on personal power and can provide you with tools to work on whatever is causing your stress, whether that's in the present, past, or future. My goal in counseling is to be a source of unconditional support while we step back and explore the ways in which social forces impact(ed) the ways you understand yourself and the world. I firmly believe knowing oneself as a whole person is a crucial step to substantial and sustainable change and know we can find solutions to help you grow.
I have experience with a wide range of troubles including (but not limited to) adjustments to life changes, anxiety, depression, Bipolar Disorder, women's issues, persons in helping professions, trauma, and LGBTQIA+ issues.
Therapy is a place where we are allowed to be raw, imperfect, vulnerable humans in a society that expects us to be flawlessly composed. I focus my practice on personal power and can provide you with tools to work on whatever is causing your stress, whether that's in the present, past, or future. My goal in counseling is to be a source of unconditional support while we step back and explore the ways in which social forces impact(ed) the ways you understand yourself and the world. I firmly believe knowing oneself as a whole person is a crucial step to substantial and sustainable change and know we can find solutions to help you grow.
(757) 347-8966 View (757) 347-8966
Photo of Layne Talbott Mitchell - RVA Personal Wellness, Telehealth only, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
RVA Personal Wellness, Telehealth only
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23230  (Online Only)
Layne also has experience with psychotic disorders, Bipolar disorders, and other serious mental illnesses and offers symptom mapping and management.
I am currently accepted new clients and I accept all Cigna, Optum (United Healthcare), Anthem and Aetna plans. Layne is certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), which has shown to effectively treat trauma. Layne also uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy to treat depression, anxiety and a variety of personality disorders. Layne has experience with psychotic disorders, Bipolar disorders, and other serious mental illnesses and offers symptom mapping and management.
Layne also has experience with psychotic disorders, Bipolar disorders, and other serious mental illnesses and offers symptom mapping and management.
I am currently accepted new clients and I accept all Cigna, Optum (United Healthcare), Anthem and Aetna plans. Layne is certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), which has shown to effectively treat trauma. Layne also uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy to treat depression, anxiety and a variety of personality disorders. Layne has experience with psychotic disorders, Bipolar disorders, and other serious mental illnesses and offers symptom mapping and management.
(804) 581-1794 View (804) 581-1794
Photo of Rhianna Beasley, PsyD, Psychologist
Rhianna Beasley
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23235
I also have specialized experience treating psychotic disorders and bipolar disorder.
I believe that recovery is possible for everyone and healing occurs best in the context of an authentic, trusting relationship. Many of my clients come to me after other short-term therapy approaches have not worked for them. We work not only to manage distressing symptoms, but also to break enduring patterns related to identity, relationships, emotional expression, and safety that often stem from earlier experiences where we felt unsafe, out of control, or invalidated. In therapy we work to make meaning out of past experiences, break those patterns, learn more about ourselves, and move towards the life we want.
I also have specialized experience treating psychotic disorders and bipolar disorder.
I believe that recovery is possible for everyone and healing occurs best in the context of an authentic, trusting relationship. Many of my clients come to me after other short-term therapy approaches have not worked for them. We work not only to manage distressing symptoms, but also to break enduring patterns related to identity, relationships, emotional expression, and safety that often stem from earlier experiences where we felt unsafe, out of control, or invalidated. In therapy we work to make meaning out of past experiences, break those patterns, learn more about ourselves, and move towards the life we want.
(804) 676-6429 View (804) 676-6429
Photo of Shameka Clark-Savage, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shameka Clark-Savage
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23235
I’ve worked with individuals with diagnoses of Bipolar, Major Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, and Schizophrenia.
My name is Shameka Clark-Savage and I was born and raised in Virginia. I completed my undergraduate degree in Liberal Arts & Education and Masters of Education in School/Community Counseling at Virginia State University. I completed my internship providing outpatient therapy for a Christian Counseling organization where I worked with an array of disorders and life changing situations. I have experience working with victims of domestic violence.
I’ve worked with individuals with diagnoses of Bipolar, Major Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, and Schizophrenia.
My name is Shameka Clark-Savage and I was born and raised in Virginia. I completed my undergraduate degree in Liberal Arts & Education and Masters of Education in School/Community Counseling at Virginia State University. I completed my internship providing outpatient therapy for a Christian Counseling organization where I worked with an array of disorders and life changing situations. I have experience working with victims of domestic violence.
(804) 581-1895 View (804) 581-1895
Photo of Roderick A. Hampton II, MS, LPC-S, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Roderick A. Hampton II
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23230  (Online Only)
I have more than 15 years of experience working with children, adolescents and adults who are seeking help with mental health concerns related to depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, trauma, anxiety, PTSD, substance use disorders, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, as well as life transitions and other obstacles.
Wellness has been defined as a way of life oriented toward optimal health and well-being in which body, mind, and spirit are integrated to live more fully within the human and natural community. Ideally, it is the optimum state of health and well-being that each individual is capable of achieving. When working together in counseling, I perceive one’s thoughts are related to their feelings and reactions to events, not the events themselves. Counseling sessions are individualized to meet the unique needs of each client.
I have more than 15 years of experience working with children, adolescents and adults who are seeking help with mental health concerns related to depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, trauma, anxiety, PTSD, substance use disorders, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, as well as life transitions and other obstacles.
Wellness has been defined as a way of life oriented toward optimal health and well-being in which body, mind, and spirit are integrated to live more fully within the human and natural community. Ideally, it is the optimum state of health and well-being that each individual is capable of achieving. When working together in counseling, I perceive one’s thoughts are related to their feelings and reactions to events, not the events themselves. Counseling sessions are individualized to meet the unique needs of each client.
(804) 258-6027 View (804) 258-6027
Photo of Ashley Burgess, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ashley Burgess
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23225  (Online Only)
I have worked with individuals of diverse populations and backgrounds experiencing serious mental illness (such as major depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, PTSD), substance use disorders, co-occurring disorders, trauma, domestic violence, etc.
Hi, I'm Ashley! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the state of Virginia with over 12 years of experience in the mental health field providing a variety of services including crisis intervention, mental health skill building, group therapy, individual therapy, and case management. I've worked in both inpatient and outpatient behavioral health settings including community service boards, non-profits, residential group homes, residential crisis stabilization units, and hospital acute psychiatric units.
I have worked with individuals of diverse populations and backgrounds experiencing serious mental illness (such as major depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, PTSD), substance use disorders, co-occurring disorders, trauma, domestic violence, etc.
Hi, I'm Ashley! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the state of Virginia with over 12 years of experience in the mental health field providing a variety of services including crisis intervention, mental health skill building, group therapy, individual therapy, and case management. I've worked in both inpatient and outpatient behavioral health settings including community service boards, non-profits, residential group homes, residential crisis stabilization units, and hospital acute psychiatric units.
(804) 709-3863 View (804) 709-3863
Photo of Eeremene Piaro, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Eeremene Piaro
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23225
Hello! I'm a licensed professional therapist with four years of experience specializing in outpatient counseling. My practice encompasses working with children, adolescents, and adults dealing with various challenges, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, grief, trauma, autism spectrum disorder, LGBTQ+ issues, life stage transition difficulties, and other mental health disorders. Taking the initiative to pursue a more fulfilling and happier life requires courage, and I commend you for taking that first step towards change. I'm here to provide you with the support and empowerment you need on your journey.
Hello! I'm a licensed professional therapist with four years of experience specializing in outpatient counseling. My practice encompasses working with children, adolescents, and adults dealing with various challenges, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, grief, trauma, autism spectrum disorder, LGBTQ+ issues, life stage transition difficulties, and other mental health disorders. Taking the initiative to pursue a more fulfilling and happier life requires courage, and I commend you for taking that first step towards change. I'm here to provide you with the support and empowerment you need on your journey.
(757) 844-5723 View (757) 844-5723
Photo of Michael Tinsley, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michael Tinsley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23225  (Online Only)
I have several years of experience in working with children, adults, and families, on a broad array of issues ranging from depression, anxiety, bipolar, ADHD, schizophrenia, substance abuse and trauma.
I am a Graduate of Howard University and UNC Charlotte, I have a BA in Psychology and a Masters in Social Work. I have a passion for working with individuals, couples and families who seek change to become happier, healthier and gain control over obstacles that are weighing them down.
I have several years of experience in working with children, adults, and families, on a broad array of issues ranging from depression, anxiety, bipolar, ADHD, schizophrenia, substance abuse and trauma.
I am a Graduate of Howard University and UNC Charlotte, I have a BA in Psychology and a Masters in Social Work. I have a passion for working with individuals, couples and families who seek change to become happier, healthier and gain control over obstacles that are weighing them down.
(757) 801-3428 View (757) 801-3428
Photo of Eeremene Piaro, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Eeremene Piaro
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23223
Hello! I'm a licensed professional therapist with four years of experience specializing in outpatient counseling. My practice encompasses working with children, adolescents, and adults dealing with various challenges, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, grief, trauma, autism spectrum disorder, LGBTQ+ issues, life stage transition difficulties, and other mental health disorders. Taking the initiative to pursue a more fulfilling and happier life requires courage, and I commend you for taking that first step towards change. I'm here to provide you with the support and empowerment you need on your journey.
Hello! I'm a licensed professional therapist with four years of experience specializing in outpatient counseling. My practice encompasses working with children, adolescents, and adults dealing with various challenges, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, grief, trauma, autism spectrum disorder, LGBTQ+ issues, life stage transition difficulties, and other mental health disorders. Taking the initiative to pursue a more fulfilling and happier life requires courage, and I commend you for taking that first step towards change. I'm here to provide you with the support and empowerment you need on your journey.
(757) 654-5145 View (757) 654-5145
Photo of Scarlete Johnson, LPC, CSAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Scarlete Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CSAC
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23225  (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
Photo of Jing Yuan, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jing Yuan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23225  (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 Angela White, LPC, CACII, Licensed Professional Counselor
Angela White
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CACII
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23173  (Online Only)
I specialize in several areas including depression, anxiety, PTSD, Bipolar, parenting, relationship issues, communication, stress management, life transitions, social anxiety, and addiction.
Teletherapy appts available within one week! Winston Churchill once said, "If you're going through hell, keep going." Well, that's easier said than done, right? I want to help you "keep going" through whatever hell you feel like you might be in and after you get past it (whatever that looks like for you), help you to learn skills to make it easier next time life comes at you full force. I've been working with adults for the last 12 years and truly cannot imagine doing anything else with my life! I seek to develop authentic, unique, connected relationships with all my clients.
I specialize in several areas including depression, anxiety, PTSD, Bipolar, parenting, relationship issues, communication, stress management, life transitions, social anxiety, and addiction.
Teletherapy appts available within one week! Winston Churchill once said, "If you're going through hell, keep going." Well, that's easier said than done, right? I want to help you "keep going" through whatever hell you feel like you might be in and after you get past it (whatever that looks like for you), help you to learn skills to make it easier next time life comes at you full force. I've been working with adults for the last 12 years and truly cannot imagine doing anything else with my life! I seek to develop authentic, unique, connected relationships with all my clients.
(540) 516-4071 View (540) 516-4071
Photo of Amir Cotton - Breakthrough Counselling LLC, MA, LPC, LSATP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Breakthrough Counselling LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LSATP
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23173  (Online Only)
My name is Amir Cotton and I’m one of the counselors at Breakthrough Counselling LLC. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Substance Abuse Treatment Practitioner in the state of Virginia. I am also a National Certified Counselor, Certified Clinical Mental Counselor, and Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor. I also have a Master’s Degree in Professional Counseling and over 12 years of experience working in the mental health field. I have experience treating depression, anxiety, PTSD/Trauma, addiction, bipolar, and adjustment disorders. I enjoy getting to know and joining with my clients to achieve their goals.
My name is Amir Cotton and I’m one of the counselors at Breakthrough Counselling LLC. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Substance Abuse Treatment Practitioner in the state of Virginia. I am also a National Certified Counselor, Certified Clinical Mental Counselor, and Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor. I also have a Master’s Degree in Professional Counseling and over 12 years of experience working in the mental health field. I have experience treating depression, anxiety, PTSD/Trauma, addiction, bipolar, and adjustment disorders. I enjoy getting to know and joining with my clients to achieve their goals.
(434) 231-2343 View (434) 231-2343
Photo of Tiffany Tait, MS, ASDI
Tiffany Tait
Resident in Counseling, MS, ASDI
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23225  (Online Only)
Currently accepting adult new clients using virtual/teletherapy for concerns including Autism Spectrum Disorder, personality disorders, schizophrenia, phobias, bipolar disorder, trauma, anxiety, depression, family counseling, relationship/intimacy dysfunction, establishing healthy boundaries, assertive communication skills
Currently accepting adult new clients using virtual/teletherapy for concerns including Autism Spectrum Disorder, personality disorders, schizophrenia, phobias, bipolar disorder, trauma, anxiety, depression, family counseling, relationship/intimacy dysfunction, establishing healthy boundaries, assertive communication skills
(571) 517-1794 View (571) 517-1794
Photo of Deborah E Elder, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Deborah E Elder
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23173
I also treat depression, anxiety, OCD, Bipolar Disorder, Trauma, ADHD, Behavior management.
TELEHEALTH AVAILABLE USING A HIPPAA COMPLIANT PLATFORM. Telehealth has been proven effective in treating more mental health issues. At this time, most insurances now cover the service. Are you or your family struggling in your daily lives? Is it depression, anxiety, family dynamics, life changes? Whatever the issue I am here to help you overcome what stands in your way to a peaceful and fulfilling life. I work with teenagers, adults and older adults. I enjoy working with families/parents to provide a safe environment to address difficult dynamics.
I also treat depression, anxiety, OCD, Bipolar Disorder, Trauma, ADHD, Behavior management.
TELEHEALTH AVAILABLE USING A HIPPAA COMPLIANT PLATFORM. Telehealth has been proven effective in treating more mental health issues. At this time, most insurances now cover the service. Are you or your family struggling in your daily lives? Is it depression, anxiety, family dynamics, life changes? Whatever the issue I am here to help you overcome what stands in your way to a peaceful and fulfilling life. I work with teenagers, adults and older adults. I enjoy working with families/parents to provide a safe environment to address difficult dynamics.
(757) 364-0963 View (757) 364-0963
Photo of Matthew Tinsley, LCSW, QMHP, CP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Matthew Tinsley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, QMHP, CP
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23221  (Online Only)
My passion lies in helping others find solutions to their problems and live happier and productive lives. I am a graduate of University of Maryland- Baltimore (MSW) Clinical Social Work, and a graduate of UNC Charlotte (BA in Psychology/Criminal Justice). I enjoy working with individuals and families, children, and adults, and I have a special passion for helping young adults overcome life’s challenges. I have experience in treating emotional and behavioral problems, mood disorders, anxiety, depression, bipolar, substance abuse, schizophrenia, trauma, ADHD, conduct disorder, etc. I also have experience in working with diverse group
My passion lies in helping others find solutions to their problems and live happier and productive lives. I am a graduate of University of Maryland- Baltimore (MSW) Clinical Social Work, and a graduate of UNC Charlotte (BA in Psychology/Criminal Justice). I enjoy working with individuals and families, children, and adults, and I have a special passion for helping young adults overcome life’s challenges. I have experience in treating emotional and behavioral problems, mood disorders, anxiety, depression, bipolar, substance abuse, schizophrenia, trauma, ADHD, conduct disorder, etc. I also have experience in working with diverse group
(757) 996-4753 View (757) 996-4753
Photo of Lisa Noe, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lisa Noe
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23224
Waitlist for new clients
My experience is in providing counseling services to a diverse population of adult and adolescent clients presenting with a variety of concerns, including: depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, substance use issues, trauma and grief.
I use a client-centered and collaborative approach to provide a confidential, safe and supportive space during therapy sessions. Treatment often focuses on strategies to increase flexibility (which has been shown to decrease the severity and occurrence of mental health issues), identify and process concerns, and develop strategies for managing anxiety, depression and other issues. However, all treatment is individualized based on client-specific goals and needs. I utilize solution-focused therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), mindfulness/grounding techniques and other interventions.
My experience is in providing counseling services to a diverse population of adult and adolescent clients presenting with a variety of concerns, including: depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, substance use issues, trauma and grief.
I use a client-centered and collaborative approach to provide a confidential, safe and supportive space during therapy sessions. Treatment often focuses on strategies to increase flexibility (which has been shown to decrease the severity and occurrence of mental health issues), identify and process concerns, and develop strategies for managing anxiety, depression and other issues. However, all treatment is individualized based on client-specific goals and needs. I utilize solution-focused therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), mindfulness/grounding techniques and other interventions.
(804) 509-2755 View (804) 509-2755
Photo of Eeremene Piaro, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Eeremene Piaro
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23223
Hello! I'm a licensed professional therapist with four years of experience specializing in outpatient counseling. My practice encompasses working with children, adolescents, and adults dealing with various challenges, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, grief, trauma, autism spectrum disorder, LGBTQ+ issues, life stage transition difficulties, and other mental health disorders. Taking the initiative to pursue a more fulfilling and happier life requires courage, and I commend you for taking that first step towards change. I'm here to provide you with the support and empowerment you need on your journey.
Hello! I'm a licensed professional therapist with four years of experience specializing in outpatient counseling. My practice encompasses working with children, adolescents, and adults dealing with various challenges, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, grief, trauma, autism spectrum disorder, LGBTQ+ issues, life stage transition difficulties, and other mental health disorders. Taking the initiative to pursue a more fulfilling and happier life requires courage, and I commend you for taking that first step towards change. I'm here to provide you with the support and empowerment you need on your journey.
(434) 442-2840 View (434) 442-2840
Photo of Aaliyah Gibbons - Lifeline Therapy and Wellness PLLC, PsyD, PSYPACT, Psychologist
Lifeline Therapy and Wellness PLLC
Psychologist, PsyD, PSYPACT
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23173  (Online Only)
Do you struggle with trauma, addiction, self-harming, suicidal ideation, eating disorders, BPD, NPD, DID, psychosis, or bipolar disorder? At Lifeline Therapy and Wellness, our mission is to provide holistic support to individuals including those with complex emotional experiences. We understand the impact that trauma can have on your physical and mental wellbeing. We aim to help you overcome challenges, restore balance, and thrive!
Do you struggle with trauma, addiction, self-harming, suicidal ideation, eating disorders, BPD, NPD, DID, psychosis, or bipolar disorder? At Lifeline Therapy and Wellness, our mission is to provide holistic support to individuals including those with complex emotional experiences. We understand the impact that trauma can have on your physical and mental wellbeing. We aim to help you overcome challenges, restore balance, and thrive!
(571) 630-3094 View (571) 630-3094
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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.