Bipolar Disorder Treatment Centers in Clearwater, FL
People with addiction issues often have other mental health concerns such as anxiety. depression, stress, bipolar disorder, etc. This is called a co-occurring disorder (also known as dual diagnosis) where substance abuse and mental health issues are present together. To recover successfully from an addiction, it is crucial to treat the mental health issue (s) as well as the addiction, which is what we do at Advantage Mental Health. Treatment with medication and counseling/behavioral therapy allows you to live their lives while overcoming addiction -- you can still work, attend school, or participate in family events with our outpatient services.
People with addiction issues often have other mental health concerns such as anxiety. depression, stress, bipolar disorder, etc. This is called a co-occurring disorder (also known as dual diagnosis) where substance abuse and mental health issues are present together. To recover successfully from an addiction, it is crucial to treat the mental health issue (s) as well as the addiction, which is what we do at Advantage Mental Health. Treatment with medication and counseling/behavioral therapy allows you to live their lives while overcoming addiction -- you can still work, attend school, or participate in family events with our outpatient services.
The Wave of Columbia, nestled in Winnsboro, South Carolina, is a comprehensive recovery center. At The Wave of Columbia, we don’t follow predetermined treatment tracks. Instead, each treatment plan is meticulously tailored for each resident and their specific needs. We treat Mental and Behavioral Health issues like PTSD, Depression, Mood disorders ,Anxiety, Personality Disorders, that are co-occurring with Substance abuse. At The Wave of Columbia, we exclusively utilize evidence-based programs for addiction and mental health treatment. Our team comprises skilled and experienced treatment professionals who are deeply committed to the success of our clients’ recovery journeys. We recognize that substance abuse often stems from underlying issues; hence, we focus on treating mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and trauma-related disorders, facilitating a more comprehensive healing process for our clients.
The Wave of Columbia, nestled in Winnsboro, South Carolina, is a comprehensive recovery center. At The Wave of Columbia, we don’t follow predetermined treatment tracks. Instead, each treatment plan is meticulously tailored for each resident and their specific needs. We treat Mental and Behavioral Health issues like PTSD, Depression, Mood disorders ,Anxiety, Personality Disorders, that are co-occurring with Substance abuse. At The Wave of Columbia, we exclusively utilize evidence-based programs for addiction and mental health treatment. Our team comprises skilled and experienced treatment professionals who are deeply committed to the success of our clients’ recovery journeys. We recognize that substance abuse often stems from underlying issues; hence, we focus on treating mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and trauma-related disorders, facilitating a more comprehensive healing process for our clients.
Transitions Outpatient Program at Largo West
Treatment Center
Verified Verified
Clearwater, FL 33764
Our specialized program helps with: • Depression • Anxiety • Post Traumatic Disorder/Trauma • Addiction • Process Addictions • Postpartum Depression • Depression/Anxiety Related to Illness • Grief • Bipolar Disorder • Trauma Related to Domestic Violence • Trauma Related to Sexual Assault/Abuse • Childhood Trauma Recovery • Work/Family Stress • Codependency/Self Worth • Daily Life Balance/Self Care • Personality Disorders
Our specialized program helps with: • Depression • Anxiety • Post Traumatic Disorder/Trauma • Addiction • Process Addictions • Postpartum Depression • Depression/Anxiety Related to Illness • Grief • Bipolar Disorder • Trauma Related to Domestic Violence • Trauma Related to Sexual Assault/Abuse • Childhood Trauma Recovery • Work/Family Stress • Codependency/Self Worth • Daily Life Balance/Self Care • Personality Disorders
Because we don't believe that healing can happen in a cold hospital like setting, we created The Wave of Clearwater. We carry out this goal with a vast amount of resources, expertise and care. We are a private women-only facility for the treatment and healing of mental and behavioral health challenges. The WAVE offers personalized inpatient and outpatient treatment programs. Our Women-Only Clearwater FL location, The Wave of Clearwater, treats women suffering from mental and behavioral health challenges. The Wave of Clearwater treats depression, anxiety, PTSD, emotional and physical abuse, postpartum depression, body issues, mood and personality disorders, and many other mental and behavior health challenges. We provide an individualized long-term residential treatment program and partial hospitalization program for women who are suffering from mental health concerns. The WAVE International is an AHCA-licensed treatment facility.
Because we don't believe that healing can happen in a cold hospital like setting, we created The Wave of Clearwater. We carry out this goal with a vast amount of resources, expertise and care. We are a private women-only facility for the treatment and healing of mental and behavioral health challenges. The WAVE offers personalized inpatient and outpatient treatment programs. Our Women-Only Clearwater FL location, The Wave of Clearwater, treats women suffering from mental and behavioral health challenges. The Wave of Clearwater treats depression, anxiety, PTSD, emotional and physical abuse, postpartum depression, body issues, mood and personality disorders, and many other mental and behavior health challenges. We provide an individualized long-term residential treatment program and partial hospitalization program for women who are suffering from mental health concerns. The WAVE International is an AHCA-licensed treatment facility.
ClearPath Health is an established local Florida based mental health provider with offices in Clearwater, Ocala, Port Saint Lucie and West Melbourne, with more in the works. We currently serve children ages five (5) and up and adults any age in all locations in-person and via telehealth. At ClearPath Health, we view therapy as a collaborative process in which clients are encouraged to explore thoughts, feelings, and behaviors in a supportive, non-judgmental, and compassionate setting and at their own pace. Clients who have completed treatment leave with new coping skills, a renewed sense of confidence and fresh perspectives on their lives. You have taken a huge step just by seeking out therapy. Now let's embark on this journey together! Reach out today for an appointment.
ClearPath Health is an established local Florida based mental health provider with offices in Clearwater, Ocala, Port Saint Lucie and West Melbourne, with more in the works. We currently serve children ages five (5) and up and adults any age in all locations in-person and via telehealth. At ClearPath Health, we view therapy as a collaborative process in which clients are encouraged to explore thoughts, feelings, and behaviors in a supportive, non-judgmental, and compassionate setting and at their own pace. Clients who have completed treatment leave with new coping skills, a renewed sense of confidence and fresh perspectives on their lives. You have taken a huge step just by seeking out therapy. Now let's embark on this journey together! Reach out today for an appointment.
Windmoor Healthcare is a progressive, fully accredited behavioral health facility that treats adults suffering from a substance use disorder, mental health issue, or co-occurring disorders. Sometimes a person develops a mental health or substance use disorder so severe they require around-the-clock care at a live-in psychiatric facility. If this sounds like the current situation of you or a loved one, it may be in your best interest to contact Windmoor Healthcare. Our inpatient treatment programs assist patients in achieving mental stability and long-term sobriety. Inpatient programs average three weeks long and we provide an aftercare network for continued improvement.
Windmoor Healthcare is a progressive, fully accredited behavioral health facility that treats adults suffering from a substance use disorder, mental health issue, or co-occurring disorders. Sometimes a person develops a mental health or substance use disorder so severe they require around-the-clock care at a live-in psychiatric facility. If this sounds like the current situation of you or a loved one, it may be in your best interest to contact Windmoor Healthcare. Our inpatient treatment programs assist patients in achieving mental stability and long-term sobriety. Inpatient programs average three weeks long and we provide an aftercare network for continued improvement.
We are dedicated to providing high quality, goal-oriented, faith-integrative counseling and therapy to achieve and maintain emotional well-being for individuals and families.
We are dedicated to providing high quality, goal-oriented, faith-integrative counseling and therapy to achieve and maintain emotional well-being for individuals and families.
White Sands Tampa, beautifully located in Plant City, Florida is a drug and alcohol addiction treatment center that believes in pinpointing the core issues behind where the behavioral disorder and/or addiction began so that we can aid in eradicating any and all behaviors associated with the initial birthplace of the addictive behaviors. Our warm, compassionate, and well-trained staff are dedicated towards helping you or your loved one to recover from addiction safely, comfortably, and effectively. We want you to feel safe in knowing that you can tell us anything without feeling judged or misunderstood. We truly care and want you to succeed. We also know that in order to truly recover, honesty is key - not just with us, but with yourself as well. You don't have to go through this alone. We are here for you and are endlessly committed towards not only your long-term recovery, from a chemical dependency standpoint, but also towards helping you to become a productive, happy, and healthy member of society. We are an addiction treatment center that truly cares about every person who walks through our doors that are willing and ready to change for the better.
White Sands Tampa, beautifully located in Plant City, Florida is a drug and alcohol addiction treatment center that believes in pinpointing the core issues behind where the behavioral disorder and/or addiction began so that we can aid in eradicating any and all behaviors associated with the initial birthplace of the addictive behaviors. Our warm, compassionate, and well-trained staff are dedicated towards helping you or your loved one to recover from addiction safely, comfortably, and effectively. We want you to feel safe in knowing that you can tell us anything without feeling judged or misunderstood. We truly care and want you to succeed. We also know that in order to truly recover, honesty is key - not just with us, but with yourself as well. You don't have to go through this alone. We are here for you and are endlessly committed towards not only your long-term recovery, from a chemical dependency standpoint, but also towards helping you to become a productive, happy, and healthy member of society. We are an addiction treatment center that truly cares about every person who walks through our doors that are willing and ready to change for the better.
Tranquil Shores offers a dual diagnosis program designed for individuals seeking relief from alcohol and substance abuse with co-occurring mental health disorders. We feel undiagnosed or misdiagnosed mental heath disorders can be one of the leading causes of substance abuse. With guidance from our licensed Clinical Team and Psychiatrists, you will create a treatment plan uniquely specific to your individual needs. The professional staff at Tranquil Shores is focused on helping you gain long-term recovery and is committed to providing exceptional dual diagnosis treatment. Our collective experience ensures that we are qualified to meet all your treatment needs for a successful, abstinence-based lifestyle. From our medical and clinical staff to our support staff, you will experience compassion, care and confidential healing at Tranquil Shores
Tranquil Shores offers a dual diagnosis program designed for individuals seeking relief from alcohol and substance abuse with co-occurring mental health disorders. We feel undiagnosed or misdiagnosed mental heath disorders can be one of the leading causes of substance abuse. With guidance from our licensed Clinical Team and Psychiatrists, you will create a treatment plan uniquely specific to your individual needs. The professional staff at Tranquil Shores is focused on helping you gain long-term recovery and is committed to providing exceptional dual diagnosis treatment. Our collective experience ensures that we are qualified to meet all your treatment needs for a successful, abstinence-based lifestyle. From our medical and clinical staff to our support staff, you will experience compassion, care and confidential healing at Tranquil Shores
7 Summit Pathways Treatment and Recovery Center
Treatment Center
Not Verified Not Verified
Clearwater, FL 33755
Why Choose 7 Summit Pathways? At 7 Summit Pathways, we take an evidence-based approach to substance abuse/addiction, and Co-occurring mental health disorders coupled with the natural healing abilities of holistic and experiential therapies. Our comprehensive, personalized methods of addiction treatment, led by our nationally recognized addictions medicine expert Dr. Lawrence Wilson, MD, MRO, ABAM, FASAM, sets us apart from other Florida recovery centers. Our experienced and caring physicians, licensed therapists, substance abuse certified counselors, case managers and certified recovery coaches work together to develop individualized treatment plans addressing each patient’s specific needs. We are a Joint Commission accredited facility that specializes in treating all types of substance abuse, including addictions to illicit drugs, alcohol, and prescription medications. We are a private intimate treatment center using proven successful, medically based treatment methods.
Why Choose 7 Summit Pathways? At 7 Summit Pathways, we take an evidence-based approach to substance abuse/addiction, and Co-occurring mental health disorders coupled with the natural healing abilities of holistic and experiential therapies. Our comprehensive, personalized methods of addiction treatment, led by our nationally recognized addictions medicine expert Dr. Lawrence Wilson, MD, MRO, ABAM, FASAM, sets us apart from other Florida recovery centers. Our experienced and caring physicians, licensed therapists, substance abuse certified counselors, case managers and certified recovery coaches work together to develop individualized treatment plans addressing each patient’s specific needs. We are a Joint Commission accredited facility that specializes in treating all types of substance abuse, including addictions to illicit drugs, alcohol, and prescription medications. We are a private intimate treatment center using proven successful, medically based treatment methods.
We offer Mental Health Treatment. We specialize in: anxiety, depression, bi-polar and anger issues. We offer a safe and nurturing environment. We are close to beaches and parks for many outdoor activities. Our philosophy stems from the fact we know addiction is a disease that affects both brain and behavior. The definition of addiction has changed through research and scientific advances. Today addiction is defined by the National Institute on Drug Abuse as a chronic, relapsing brain disease that is characterized by compulsive drug seeking and use, despite harmful consequences. It is considered a brain disease because drugs change the brain: they change the structure and how the brain works. These changes in the brain can be long lasting and lead to destructive behaviors seen in people who abuse drugs. Over the years many variations of treatment techniques and optimum lengths of stay have been implemented in attempts to change the often times antisocial behaviors associated with abusive drinking and or drugging. Few have worked. There is hope! CALL US we can HELP! 727-220-2422
We offer Mental Health Treatment. We specialize in: anxiety, depression, bi-polar and anger issues. We offer a safe and nurturing environment. We are close to beaches and parks for many outdoor activities. Our philosophy stems from the fact we know addiction is a disease that affects both brain and behavior. The definition of addiction has changed through research and scientific advances. Today addiction is defined by the National Institute on Drug Abuse as a chronic, relapsing brain disease that is characterized by compulsive drug seeking and use, despite harmful consequences. It is considered a brain disease because drugs change the brain: they change the structure and how the brain works. These changes in the brain can be long lasting and lead to destructive behaviors seen in people who abuse drugs. Over the years many variations of treatment techniques and optimum lengths of stay have been implemented in attempts to change the often times antisocial behaviors associated with abusive drinking and or drugging. Few have worked. There is hope! CALL US we can HELP! 727-220-2422
15 Second Videos
Transitions Outpatient Program at Largo West
The Wave of Clearwater
ClearPath Health LLC
Windmoor Healthcare of Clearwater
Tranquil Shores Dual Diagnosis Program
At Footprints Beachside Recovery, we know there is no “one size fits all” approach to effective drug treatment programs. Instead, the therapeutic response must be oriented to an individual’s specific configuration of needs. We take a holistic approach to drug and alcohol treatment with a range of “wrap around” drug treatment programs that target the biological, psychological and social causes of addiction. We know how tough the decision is to go to treatment, that's why since 2008 we have maintained our boutique approach to 15 clients, both residing in beautiful, clean, private beachside residences, and a team of professionals to treat you.
At Footprints Beachside Recovery, we know there is no “one size fits all” approach to effective drug treatment programs. Instead, the therapeutic response must be oriented to an individual’s specific configuration of needs. We take a holistic approach to drug and alcohol treatment with a range of “wrap around” drug treatment programs that target the biological, psychological and social causes of addiction. We know how tough the decision is to go to treatment, that's why since 2008 we have maintained our boutique approach to 15 clients, both residing in beautiful, clean, private beachside residences, and a team of professionals to treat you.
North Tampa Behavioral Health - Adult Outpatient
Treatment Center
Not Verified Not Verified
Clearwater, FL 33755
North Tampa Behavioral Health, located in Wesley Chapel, Florida, offers a partial hospitalization program (PHP) for adults age 18 and older who have mental health disorders and substance use concerns. Our PHP is an ideal option for people who do not need intensive inpatient treatment but could still benefit from structured support. Patients in our PHP take part in programming five days a week, six hours each day, for two to four weeks. During their time in treatment, patients receive weekly medication management services and participate in daily group therapies. Therapists lead processing and psychotherapy groups that are informed by cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). Topics covered in groups may include setting boundaries, how to cope with stress and anger, navigating grief and loss, and healthy communication skills. Patients can also take part in yoga, meditation, and recreational groups led by experienced recreational therapists and certified yoga instructors.
North Tampa Behavioral Health, located in Wesley Chapel, Florida, offers a partial hospitalization program (PHP) for adults age 18 and older who have mental health disorders and substance use concerns. Our PHP is an ideal option for people who do not need intensive inpatient treatment but could still benefit from structured support. Patients in our PHP take part in programming five days a week, six hours each day, for two to four weeks. During their time in treatment, patients receive weekly medication management services and participate in daily group therapies. Therapists lead processing and psychotherapy groups that are informed by cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). Topics covered in groups may include setting boundaries, how to cope with stress and anger, navigating grief and loss, and healthy communication skills. Patients can also take part in yoga, meditation, and recreational groups led by experienced recreational therapists and certified yoga instructors.
Or caring Professional staff include on call Doctors, and Onsite Nurses 24 hours per day. This helps to ensure the safest environment to Detox from Drugs and Alcohol. A typical detox ranges in length from 3-10 days in length. A detox from opiates is the longest time period often between 7-10 days long. While a Alcohol detox is typically 3-7 days in length. We work carefully with each patient to ensure their comfort and safety during the detox period. Medication to minimize the risks of seizures and limit the discomfort associated with withdrawal. Our Detox In Punta Gorda Florida is ideally situated next to the Hospital for any acute emergencies. In Charlotte county there is a shortage of Detox services, and we are proud to be available to help service the residents of Charlotte County.
Or caring Professional staff include on call Doctors, and Onsite Nurses 24 hours per day. This helps to ensure the safest environment to Detox from Drugs and Alcohol. A typical detox ranges in length from 3-10 days in length. A detox from opiates is the longest time period often between 7-10 days long. While a Alcohol detox is typically 3-7 days in length. We work carefully with each patient to ensure their comfort and safety during the detox period. Medication to minimize the risks of seizures and limit the discomfort associated with withdrawal. Our Detox In Punta Gorda Florida is ideally situated next to the Hospital for any acute emergencies. In Charlotte county there is a shortage of Detox services, and we are proud to be available to help service the residents of Charlotte County.
More Treatment Centers Nearby
At Acera Health, we believe that everyone has the potential to create a life that they love. However, sometimes life can get in the way, and it can be challenging to know where to turn. That's where we come in. We offer a range of services to help restore your mind and transform your life. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, or addiction, we'll be there to support you every step of the way. We know that change can be difficult, but we also know that it's possible. With our help, you can create the life you've always wanted. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you create lasting change in your life.
At Acera Health, we believe that everyone has the potential to create a life that they love. However, sometimes life can get in the way, and it can be challenging to know where to turn. That's where we come in. We offer a range of services to help restore your mind and transform your life. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, or addiction, we'll be there to support you every step of the way. We know that change can be difficult, but we also know that it's possible. With our help, you can create the life you've always wanted. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you create lasting change in your life.
Tranquil Shores offers a comprehensive, Dual diagnosis program designed for individuals seeking relief from substance abuse and mental health issues. With guidance from our licensed Clinical Team, most of whom are internationally recognized, you will create a treatment plan uniquely specific to your individual needs. The professional staff at Tranquil Shores is focused on helping you gain long-term recovery and is committed to providing exceptional treatment from substance abuse and mental health issues. Our collective experience ensures that we are qualified to meet the treatment needs of many different individuals for a successful, abstinence-based lifestyle. From our medical and clinical staff to our support staff, you will experience compassion, care and confidential healing at Tranquil Shores.
Tranquil Shores offers a comprehensive, Dual diagnosis program designed for individuals seeking relief from substance abuse and mental health issues. With guidance from our licensed Clinical Team, most of whom are internationally recognized, you will create a treatment plan uniquely specific to your individual needs. The professional staff at Tranquil Shores is focused on helping you gain long-term recovery and is committed to providing exceptional treatment from substance abuse and mental health issues. Our collective experience ensures that we are qualified to meet the treatment needs of many different individuals for a successful, abstinence-based lifestyle. From our medical and clinical staff to our support staff, you will experience compassion, care and confidential healing at Tranquil Shores.
Our patients range from ages 4 and up, and we offer both online and in-person therapy options. We are here if you need to talk it out, whatever the issue. We’ve created a comfy, judgment-free zone where you can be authentic, get real about where you’re at in your mental health. We strive to break down treatment barriers and provide you with customized counseling services that meet your therapy needs. We have an incredible group of therapists who are encouraged to be unique and creative while offering customized care.
Our patients range from ages 4 and up, and we offer both online and in-person therapy options. We are here if you need to talk it out, whatever the issue. We’ve created a comfy, judgment-free zone where you can be authentic, get real about where you’re at in your mental health. We strive to break down treatment barriers and provide you with customized counseling services that meet your therapy needs. We have an incredible group of therapists who are encouraged to be unique and creative while offering customized care.
Online Treatment Centers
Located on West Cypress St, in the Westshore Business District, with easy access to the Tampa airport other parts of Tampa Bay and surrounding areas, Pasadena Villa Outpatient – Tampa specializes in treating adults, 18 years and older, who struggle with various mental illnesses, including but not limited to, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and psychotic disorders.
Located on West Cypress St, in the Westshore Business District, with easy access to the Tampa airport other parts of Tampa Bay and surrounding areas, Pasadena Villa Outpatient – Tampa specializes in treating adults, 18 years and older, who struggle with various mental illnesses, including but not limited to, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and psychotic disorders.
We have IOP's for Adults with Bipolar Disorder and/or chronic depression, Adults with a history of trauma, Adults with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD).
If you have grown weary of "just talking" and are wondering where your therapy is going we probably have what you need. We have therapeutic modalities and tools that very few people have, we have experience that very few therapists have. We are goal oriented and driven to help you get you where you want to be; as quickly and as efficiently as possible. We enjoy the challenge of working with the "hard to treat" symptoms as much as we enjoy helping a couple work through a difficult time in their relationship. For those that are in severe distress we have Intensive Outpatient Programs for adolescents and adults. These IOP's are 10 weeks long and are created for those with severe issues that are causing self harming behaviors and/or suicidal ideation. These IOP's are fun, educational and extremely life changing. Come meet with us before you spend ten's of thousands of dollars on inpatient services.
We have IOP's for Adults with Bipolar Disorder and/or chronic depression, Adults with a history of trauma, Adults with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD).
If you have grown weary of "just talking" and are wondering where your therapy is going we probably have what you need. We have therapeutic modalities and tools that very few people have, we have experience that very few therapists have. We are goal oriented and driven to help you get you where you want to be; as quickly and as efficiently as possible. We enjoy the challenge of working with the "hard to treat" symptoms as much as we enjoy helping a couple work through a difficult time in their relationship. For those that are in severe distress we have Intensive Outpatient Programs for adolescents and adults. These IOP's are 10 weeks long and are created for those with severe issues that are causing self harming behaviors and/or suicidal ideation. These IOP's are fun, educational and extremely life changing. Come meet with us before you spend ten's of thousands of dollars on inpatient services.
Serving Central Florida since 1970, La Amistad offers residential, partial hospitalization, and intensive outpatient programs. The programs serve youth ages 12-17 and adults 18-65 with behavioral, emotional, family, school and social issues including bipolar, depression, alcohol and drug dependency, trauma-related conditions, schizophrenia, anxiety, ADHD, personality disorders, and co-occurring psychiatric and substance abuse issues. Treatment modalities include Cognitive Behavioral, Client-Centered, Prolonged Exposure, EMDR, and Chemical Recovery utilizing the 12-Step model. La Amistad Behavioral Health Services celebrated 54-years as a leader in the field of behavioral health care, and its experts are committed to providing the highest quality of care in an atmosphere that nurtures healing and growth. La Amistad believes in building healthy communities, which start with healthy individuals, linked through sound relationships with family, friends, neighbors, and community. Call 407.647.0660 for more information or to schedule a tour.
Serving Central Florida since 1970, La Amistad offers residential, partial hospitalization, and intensive outpatient programs. The programs serve youth ages 12-17 and adults 18-65 with behavioral, emotional, family, school and social issues including bipolar, depression, alcohol and drug dependency, trauma-related conditions, schizophrenia, anxiety, ADHD, personality disorders, and co-occurring psychiatric and substance abuse issues. Treatment modalities include Cognitive Behavioral, Client-Centered, Prolonged Exposure, EMDR, and Chemical Recovery utilizing the 12-Step model. La Amistad Behavioral Health Services celebrated 54-years as a leader in the field of behavioral health care, and its experts are committed to providing the highest quality of care in an atmosphere that nurtures healing and growth. La Amistad believes in building healthy communities, which start with healthy individuals, linked through sound relationships with family, friends, neighbors, and community. Call 407.647.0660 for more information or to schedule a tour.
See more therapy options for Clearwater
Bipolar Disorder Treatment Centers
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.