Bipolar

Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition characterized by episodes of mood swings ranging from depressive lows to manic highs. Formally known as manic depression, bipolar is a serious condition that can cause dangerous behavior, including suicidal tendencies. The manic and depressive periods can be brief (hours or days) or last several weeks or even months. Bipolar disorder is typically treated with a combination of therapy and medication. If you are suffering from bipolar disorder (or suspect you might be), contact one of TherapyDen’s specialists to get help today.

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Bipolar can be treated with several therapies. Interpersonal Social Rhythm Therapy uses tracking, social interaction, and circadian rhythms to keep you stable. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy can be really effective for depression. Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing therapy (EMDR), Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), and Internal Family Systems (IFS) can help resolve any trauma, such as hospitalizations and embarrassing memories. Mindfulness and education round out the treatment.

— Anna Khandrueva, Therapist in Broomfield, CO

I spent the majority of my education exploring bipolar disorder. My master's thesis was on the connection between artistic genius and bipolar disorder. I can offer bipolar clients a nuanced understanding of their symptoms, and the multitude of ways bipolar can interact with their life and identity. Many of my clients who identify as bipolar have intersecting creative talents and/or exceptional abilities that sometimes dance with the various mood states of bipolar.

— Caitlin Miller, Counselor in Northbrook, IL
 

Psychotherapy and psychoeducation, cognitive-behavioral therapy, interpersonal and social rhythm therapy are all effective in supporting those living with Bipolar Disorder. Modalities I use include functional remediation and mindfulness-based cognitive therapy.

— Fightress Aaron, Licensed Professional Counselor in Montgomery, AL

I have worked with people with Bipolar Disorders for 3 years and believe a collaborative approach towards a treatment plan works best.

— Samantha Fitzgerald, Mental Health Counselor in New York, NY
 

Managing the ups and downs of bipolar disorder is more than just 'finding balance.' I blend evidence-based techniques with creative approaches to help you understand your unique patterns. We'll develop strategies that fit your life and strengthen your ability to navigate mood shifts with confidence.

— viviane zaccour, Mental Health Counselor in New York, NY

Bipolar Disorder is a mental illness that will always be dear to my heart. It may be a condition that you have for reasons beyond your control, but it does not define you. There are a myriad of solutions to help pad its difficult symptoms. Depending on what benefits you, we will work together to find them.

— Katherine Marie Work, Therapist in Northbrook, IL
 

For the last three years I have facilitated a bipolar education and support group as well as worked with individuals both new to the diagnosis and those who have known about it for years. Because of the unique nature of this diagnosis, it is important to talk about stigma, triggers, early warning signs, a wellness action plan, including the creation and maintenance of daily structure and routines. With education and self-compassion, it's possible to have a full, engaged, and meaningful life.

— Sage Leitson, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in Alameda, CA

Bipolar can be a difficult experience, but it does not have to be a negative one. Together I help my clients understand the way their cycles and symptoms effect their lives, create interventions to reduce vulnerabilities and increase protective factors, and see themselves as the whole person they are.

— Nicole Depasquale, Licensed Professional Counselor in Beachwood, NJ
 

I have a strong interest and background working with people with bipolar disorder. I do so under the recommendations of the APA which is to offer weekly therapy in combination with medications. Because I am working online, I may refer some clients with severe cases to in person therapy. This is to provide them with the best protection possible.

— Patricia Ellis Christensen, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in , CA

I have many years of experience working with mood disorders. There are a lot of misconceptions about Bipolar Disorder out there. I work with my clients to help them develop adaptive ways to regulate their moods.

— Micia Harris, Licensed Professional Counselor
 

Bipolar disorder can lead to abrupt mood shifts that can be difficult to manage and lead to impulsive choices, psychosis, challenged relationships, etc. There are therapeutic techniques we can engage in together to help bring about increased awareness of how lifestyle and mood are intertwined for you personally and identify areas for adjustment. Through processing in therapy, we can work together toward a greater sense of balance - both internally and externally.

— Dr. Dana Avey, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in Colorado Springs, CO

Bipolar disorder presents with high or low moods, described as mood swings. These mood swings can affect sleep, energy, activity, judgement, behavior and the ability to think clearly.

— Mariam Odu-onikosi, Mental Health Practitioner in Euless, TX
 

I have a strong interest and background working with people with bipolar disorder. I do so under the recommendations of the APA which is to offer weekly therapy in combination with medications. Because I am working online, I may refer some clients with severe cases to in person therapy. This is to provide them with the best protection possible.

— Patricia Ellis Christensen, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in , CA

Bipolar mood swings can be frightening. One week you may feel depressed, unmotivated even suicidal. Then you surge into a whirlwind of high energy, racing thoughts, sleeplessness, and maybe you do things that you feel embarrassed about later, when you come down from the emotional high. And this leads to more depression, shame and guilt. It's exhausting! There's hope. People with bipolar disorder lead healthy, productive lives with proper diagnosis and treatment.

— Celia Tatman, Counselor in Matthews, NC, NC
 

Being a dual diagnosis clinician, I have built specific skills to help patients of all ages challenge their mental health symptoms from bipolar disorder, anxiety, and depression, among others. Working openly and honestly with patients they learn new techniques to manage their symptoms effectively.

— Dawn Ginestra, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin, TX

I have several years of experience working as a DBT therapist and during this time I treated clients diagnosed with bipolar disorder. I help clients learn to be more mindful in their shifts in mood and symptoms and develop a preventative self-care style to better manage their symptoms.

— Wild Therapy/ Stacey Cholick, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Austin, TX
 

Psychotherapy and psychoeducation, cognitive-behavioral therapy, interpersonal and social rhythm therapy are all effective in supporting those living with Bipolar Disorder. Modalities I use include functional remediation and mindfulness-based cognitive therapy.

— Fightress Aaron, Licensed Professional Counselor in Montgomery, AL

I have several years of experience working as a therapist and during this time I treated clients diagnosed with bipolar disorder. I help clients learn to be more mindful in their shifts in mood and symptoms and develop a preventative self-care style to better manage their symptoms.

— Wild Therapy/ Stacey Cholick, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Austin, TX