Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Tillamook, OR

Photo of Danesh Oleshko, Marriage & Family Therapist in Tillamook, OR
Danesh Oleshko
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA, LLM, CADC I, JD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Tillamook, OR 97141  (Online Only)
My commitment is to offer effective therapy. As a person seeking therapy, you need a counselor who can understand and meet you where healing and growth is waiting to take place within you. Let's connect and find out if that counselor is me. I offer depth therapy that is emotionally sensitive, trauma-informed and transpersonal: integrating soul-searching and the management of daily life & relationships. My practice is integrative: weaving elements of nature therapy, body-centered expression and a receptive, feminine/masculine balanced approach.
My commitment is to offer effective therapy. As a person seeking therapy, you need a counselor who can understand and meet you where healing and growth is waiting to take place within you. Let's connect and find out if that counselor is me. I offer depth therapy that is emotionally sensitive, trauma-informed and transpersonal: integrating soul-searching and the management of daily life & relationships. My practice is integrative: weaving elements of nature therapy, body-centered expression and a receptive, feminine/masculine balanced approach.
(541) 204-8870 View (541) 204-8870

Online Therapists

Photo of Alex Perez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tillamook, OR
Alex Perez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in issues important to teenagers and young adults/families, including issues related to family dynamics, depression, anxiety, bipolar/schizophrenia, substance abuse concerns, transracial adoptions, grief, LGBTQ dynamics, racial identity, gender transitioning process, and abandonment trauma. My relational approach to therapy can help you gain awareness of your road blocks and provide you with the tools (skills/coping strategies) you have for your own growth.
I specialize in issues important to teenagers and young adults/families, including issues related to family dynamics, depression, anxiety, bipolar/schizophrenia, substance abuse concerns, transracial adoptions, grief, LGBTQ dynamics, racial identity, gender transitioning process, and abandonment trauma. My relational approach to therapy can help you gain awareness of your road blocks and provide you with the tools (skills/coping strategies) you have for your own growth.
(503) 433-8452 View (503) 433-8452
Photo of Jeremy Steenstrup Balthazar, Professional Counselor Associate in Tillamook, OR
Jeremy Steenstrup Balthazar
Professional Counselor Associate, MA, QMHP-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97206  (Online Only)
My practice is grounded in existential therapy which recognizes the importance of meaning, relationships, autonomy, authenticity, agency, creativity, and connection for acceptance, growth, and change. I work with clients collaboratively to individualize therapy, and use a variety of interventions including narrative, psychodynamic, cognitive, polyvagal, attachment, and mindfulness practices. My experience includes working with bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, grief and bereavement, personality disorders, psychotic disorders, ADHD, sex addiction, substance addiction, and interpersonal relationships.
My practice is grounded in existential therapy which recognizes the importance of meaning, relationships, autonomy, authenticity, agency, creativity, and connection for acceptance, growth, and change. I work with clients collaboratively to individualize therapy, and use a variety of interventions including narrative, psychodynamic, cognitive, polyvagal, attachment, and mindfulness practices. My experience includes working with bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, grief and bereavement, personality disorders, psychotic disorders, ADHD, sex addiction, substance addiction, and interpersonal relationships.
(503) 966-7356 View (503) 966-7356
Photo of Gil Winkelman ND in Tillamook, OR
Gil Winkelman ND
ND, MA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97210  (Online Only)
His primary interests are in Autism/ASD/Asperger's, OCD, ADD/ADHD, schizophrenia, migraines and bipolar disorders.
Dr Winkelman's focus is on understanding patients personal traits and health history to customize treatments that have the maximum possible impact. With a focus on neurological (brain) health, he uses a combination of neurofeedback, Walsh Protocol, and other natural treatments to help patients with a variety of conditions including, but not limited to: migraines, digestive disorders, depression, anxiety, Aspergers/Autism, OCD, ADD/ADHD, and Radical Attachment Disorder. Dr. Winkelman was trained in Neurofeedback by BCIA certified practitioners and utilizes the most up-to-date equipment in his practice. He has worked with veterans.
His primary interests are in Autism/ASD/Asperger's, OCD, ADD/ADHD, schizophrenia, migraines and bipolar disorders.
Dr Winkelman's focus is on understanding patients personal traits and health history to customize treatments that have the maximum possible impact. With a focus on neurological (brain) health, he uses a combination of neurofeedback, Walsh Protocol, and other natural treatments to help patients with a variety of conditions including, but not limited to: migraines, digestive disorders, depression, anxiety, Aspergers/Autism, OCD, ADD/ADHD, and Radical Attachment Disorder. Dr. Winkelman was trained in Neurofeedback by BCIA certified practitioners and utilizes the most up-to-date equipment in his practice. He has worked with veterans.
(503) 451-6760 View (503) 451-6760
Photo of Jennifer Pitt, Marriage & Family Therapist in Tillamook, OR
Jennifer Pitt
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Beaverton, OR 97005
My areas of specialty include working with children, new mothers, parenting, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and providing ADHD evaluations.
I believe therapy is a collaborative process between client and therapist. My role is to provide a safe environment where client views are respected, and strengths are emphasized. I take a whole-body approach to healing while incorporating history and CBT techniques.
My areas of specialty include working with children, new mothers, parenting, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and providing ADHD evaluations.
I believe therapy is a collaborative process between client and therapist. My role is to provide a safe environment where client views are respected, and strengths are emphasized. I take a whole-body approach to healing while incorporating history and CBT techniques.
(971) 229-4009 View (971) 229-4009
Photo of Jennifer Crocker, Licensed Professional Counselor in Tillamook, OR
Jennifer Crocker
Licensed Professional Counselor, MCFC, LPC
Verified Verified
Newberg, OR 97132
I have lived and educational experience working with PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, ADHD, and Anxiety.
I enjoy clients who come to me with complex concerns, who are looking for something other than a cookie cutter experience. My focus is on helping you work through the things that aren’t working for you. My goal is to meet you where you are and walk with you through your journey. You are the driver of our therapeutic car and I step into the passenger seat. I guide you using many different techniques/therapy styles and you are the one completely in control.
I have lived and educational experience working with PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, ADHD, and Anxiety.
I enjoy clients who come to me with complex concerns, who are looking for something other than a cookie cutter experience. My focus is on helping you work through the things that aren’t working for you. My goal is to meet you where you are and walk with you through your journey. You are the driver of our therapeutic car and I step into the passenger seat. I guide you using many different techniques/therapy styles and you are the one completely in control.
(971) 287-6369 View (971) 287-6369
Photo of Clarissa Jane Shepherd, Licensed Professional Counselor in Tillamook, OR
Clarissa Jane Shepherd
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Woodburn, OR 97071  (Online Only)
I specialize in trauma based treatment, working with those struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, parenting issues, marriage & family difficulties, weight issues/struggles, spiritual crisis & questions, women's issues including struggles associated with pregnancy & postpartum, coping with spousal abuse, pornography addiction, etc.
I specialize in trauma based treatment, working with those struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, parenting issues, marriage & family difficulties, weight issues/struggles, spiritual crisis & questions, women's issues including struggles associated with pregnancy & postpartum, coping with spousal abuse, pornography addiction, etc.
(503) 217-2465 View (503) 217-2465
Photo of Joy Wilson, Counselor in Tillamook, OR
Joy Wilson
Counselor, LMHCA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97222
I have a great passion for empowering those suffering from chronic mental health disorders such as BIPOLAR disorder.
Our life stories do not always have the fairy tale endings that we hoped for, but we are not mere puppets. We are active agents in pursuit of meaningful moments and positive outcomes. I will help you identify your strengths and collaborate with you to find solutions to challenges in your story. I strive to provide a counseling relationship in which you can feel safe, heard, and supported as you explore or process whatever you choose.
I have a great passion for empowering those suffering from chronic mental health disorders such as BIPOLAR disorder.
Our life stories do not always have the fairy tale endings that we hoped for, but we are not mere puppets. We are active agents in pursuit of meaningful moments and positive outcomes. I will help you identify your strengths and collaborate with you to find solutions to challenges in your story. I strive to provide a counseling relationship in which you can feel safe, heard, and supported as you explore or process whatever you choose.
(503) 850-8088 View (503) 850-8088
Photo of Tera Hadassah Gold, Licensed Professional Counselor in Tillamook, OR
Tera Hadassah Gold
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Astoria, OR 97103  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have experience and training in CPTSD, Dissociative Disorders, Ruminating types of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, ADHD, ASD, and Bipolar Disorder, and Personality Disorders.
My ideal client is someone who is committed to changing their lives for the better. I like to work with people who want to make a difference in the world in their own unique way. True healing and change is always a door we can walk through. Together, we can find out what works so that you can feel better about yourself, express yourself, and share your unique self or selves with the world.
I have experience and training in CPTSD, Dissociative Disorders, Ruminating types of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, ADHD, ASD, and Bipolar Disorder, and Personality Disorders.
My ideal client is someone who is committed to changing their lives for the better. I like to work with people who want to make a difference in the world in their own unique way. True healing and change is always a door we can walk through. Together, we can find out what works so that you can feel better about yourself, express yourself, and share your unique self or selves with the world.
(971) 248-7816 View (971) 248-7816
Photo of Cassandra Gardner, Licensed Professional Counselor in Tillamook, OR
Cassandra Gardner
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97212  (Online Only)
When working with clients I prioritize the therapeutic relationship. We become a team working toward your goals, and I place significant value on honesty, authenticity, humor, compassion, validation, and accountability into our work together. Since starting my counseling practice I have worked with people of all ages and backgrounds experiencing various challenges including but not limited to anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma, gender dysphoria, grief, interpersonal issues, life transitions, adoption, self-esteem, bipolar II disorder, and more.
When working with clients I prioritize the therapeutic relationship. We become a team working toward your goals, and I place significant value on honesty, authenticity, humor, compassion, validation, and accountability into our work together. Since starting my counseling practice I have worked with people of all ages and backgrounds experiencing various challenges including but not limited to anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma, gender dysphoria, grief, interpersonal issues, life transitions, adoption, self-esteem, bipolar II disorder, and more.
(503) 966-8721 View (503) 966-8721
Photo of Don Dodson, Psychologist in Tillamook, OR
Don Dodson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Clackamas, OR 97015
With regard to adults, my focus has been on treating depression, anxiety, ADHD, life adjustments (divorce, unemployment, death of a loved one), and bipolar disorder.
Therapy can be a tremendously rewarding and enlightening experience leading to lifelong change. My approach to working with clients is to tailor my interventions to meet their specific needs and to work with them in a collaborative fashion to help them access their own strengths and wisdom. My first priority is to listen,to understand your perspective and life experience. I will then work with you to help you gain insight into your current challenges. My goal is to address your problems directly, assist you in finding solutions, and get you back into your life as soon as possible.
With regard to adults, my focus has been on treating depression, anxiety, ADHD, life adjustments (divorce, unemployment, death of a loved one), and bipolar disorder.
Therapy can be a tremendously rewarding and enlightening experience leading to lifelong change. My approach to working with clients is to tailor my interventions to meet their specific needs and to work with them in a collaborative fashion to help them access their own strengths and wisdom. My first priority is to listen,to understand your perspective and life experience. I will then work with you to help you gain insight into your current challenges. My goal is to address your problems directly, assist you in finding solutions, and get you back into your life as soon as possible.
(503) 446-6251 View (503) 446-6251
Photo of Dana Fears, Licensed Professional Counselor in Tillamook, OR
Dana Fears
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97223
Are you on a personal journey to heal from grief and trauma? I am someone to guide you through the chaos and help you encounter hope. I specialize in grief and loss, narcissistic abuse recovery, Bipolar disorder, adult children of alcoholics, and individuals with disabilities and those auto-immune disorders, and individuals who are domestic violence and cancer survivors. Unfortunately, I don't treat suicidal ideation or self-harm at this time.
Are you on a personal journey to heal from grief and trauma? I am someone to guide you through the chaos and help you encounter hope. I specialize in grief and loss, narcissistic abuse recovery, Bipolar disorder, adult children of alcoholics, and individuals with disabilities and those auto-immune disorders, and individuals who are domestic violence and cancer survivors. Unfortunately, I don't treat suicidal ideation or self-harm at this time.
(503) 782-8649 View (503) 782-8649
Photo of Robert Socherman, Psychologist in Tillamook, OR
Robert Socherman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97227
The focus of my practice is working with people with mood disorders, usually defined as depression or bipolar disorder as well as anxiety disorders.
I think of my approach to helping people as a collaborative and educational one. Most people who come in for therapy are wanting to make a change in their lives but are struggling in some manor. I feel that the best way to implement change is through one's thoughts (cognitions), feelings, and behaviors-this kind of approach is known as Cognitive-Behavioral therapy (CBT). A person needs to welcome the challenges and opportunities in his or her life with a clear and calm mind - These are the cognitive and behavioral aspects of CBT.
The focus of my practice is working with people with mood disorders, usually defined as depression or bipolar disorder as well as anxiety disorders.
I think of my approach to helping people as a collaborative and educational one. Most people who come in for therapy are wanting to make a change in their lives but are struggling in some manor. I feel that the best way to implement change is through one's thoughts (cognitions), feelings, and behaviors-this kind of approach is known as Cognitive-Behavioral therapy (CBT). A person needs to welcome the challenges and opportunities in his or her life with a clear and calm mind - These are the cognitive and behavioral aspects of CBT.
(503) 218-3970 View (503) 218-3970
Photo of Noel Sicat, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tillamook, OR
Noel Sicat
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97211  (Online Only)
I have had experience in working with clients who struggle with symptoms of Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Bipolar disorder, psychosis, personality disorders and other mood disorders and symptoms.
Hi! My name is Noël, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Oregon, with over a decade of experience in a variety of settings. I completed my MSW at Loma Linda University and a Social Work Fellowship at Yale University. I want to help you with whatever situation you are facing. We all need support sometimes, and I know that taking these first steps to finding the help you need are some of the hardest. Everyone deserves to be truly heard and their life journey to be respected.
I have had experience in working with clients who struggle with symptoms of Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Bipolar disorder, psychosis, personality disorders and other mood disorders and symptoms.
Hi! My name is Noël, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Oregon, with over a decade of experience in a variety of settings. I completed my MSW at Loma Linda University and a Social Work Fellowship at Yale University. I want to help you with whatever situation you are facing. We all need support sometimes, and I know that taking these first steps to finding the help you need are some of the hardest. Everyone deserves to be truly heard and their life journey to be respected.
(971) 545-8015 View (971) 545-8015
Photo of Molz Wirtz-Wold, Counselor in Tillamook, OR
Molz Wirtz-Wold
Counselor, MS, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97203
I also specialize in supporting folks with bipolar find and maintain balance and stability.
Accepting clients as of 5/13/24. A therapist for 19 years, I am a good fit for people looking for a non-judgmental, open, directive and creative clinician. I support individual adults and couples/relationships from an attachment and relational approach. I am very experienced in supporting transgender, queer, polyamorous and/or sex positive clients. People looking for a safe space to be their authentic selves are welcomed. I am queer, transgender, autistic and have lived experience as a fat bodied person.
I also specialize in supporting folks with bipolar find and maintain balance and stability.
Accepting clients as of 5/13/24. A therapist for 19 years, I am a good fit for people looking for a non-judgmental, open, directive and creative clinician. I support individual adults and couples/relationships from an attachment and relational approach. I am very experienced in supporting transgender, queer, polyamorous and/or sex positive clients. People looking for a safe space to be their authentic selves are welcomed. I am queer, transgender, autistic and have lived experience as a fat bodied person.
(503) 379-9742 View (503) 379-9742
Photo of Sam Wilson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tillamook, OR
Sam Wilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97212  (Online Only)
Do you feel trapped by circumstances beyond your control? Are you unable to escape negative thoughts? Have you forgotten why you made the decisions that led you to this moment? Talk therapy can offer a way forward. Therapy can be a safe space to catch your breath, to talk out ideas that feel strange or risky, and to devise a new strategy for reconnecting with your best self. I'll do my best to help no matter what you're facing but right now I'm especially enthusiastic about working with young adults and professionals coping with ADHD, men's issues, relationship issues, bipolar disorder, depression, anger management and anxiety.
Do you feel trapped by circumstances beyond your control? Are you unable to escape negative thoughts? Have you forgotten why you made the decisions that led you to this moment? Talk therapy can offer a way forward. Therapy can be a safe space to catch your breath, to talk out ideas that feel strange or risky, and to devise a new strategy for reconnecting with your best self. I'll do my best to help no matter what you're facing but right now I'm especially enthusiastic about working with young adults and professionals coping with ADHD, men's issues, relationship issues, bipolar disorder, depression, anger management and anxiety.
(240) 292-8651 View (240) 292-8651
Photo of Shana Schmitz, Licensed Professional Counselor in Tillamook, OR
Shana Schmitz
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Oregon City, OR 97045  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with adults 18 and older. My specialties are working with those dealing with bipolar and other persistent mental illnesses, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, life transitions, trauma related symptoms and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD, C-PTSD). The evidence based practices I am trained in and able to incorporate into sessions include: Person-Centered Therapy, Motivational Interviewing Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy and Solution-Focused Therapy.
I enjoy working with adults 18 and older. My specialties are working with those dealing with bipolar and other persistent mental illnesses, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, life transitions, trauma related symptoms and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD, C-PTSD). The evidence based practices I am trained in and able to incorporate into sessions include: Person-Centered Therapy, Motivational Interviewing Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy and Solution-Focused Therapy.
(503) 673-9848 View (503) 673-9848
Photo of Andrea J Tyler, Licensed Professional Counselor in Tillamook, OR
Andrea J Tyler
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC, CADCIII, CIEC, NCC
Verified Verified
Newberg, OR 97132  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Whether you have a diagnosis of Borderline Personality Disorder, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, disordered eating/eating disorders, co-occurring substance use, depressive or anxiety disorders, together we will find the best treatment approach to address your specific goals.
Do any of these comments sound familiar? “You’re too emotional.” “You’re so dramatic.” “Why can’t you just let it go?” “You’re so sensitive!” Do you struggle to cope without going to extremes? Too many people haven’t been taught how to cope with the struggles of life in healthy, effective ways and instead find any possible way to feel better, as quickly as possible. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) in particular can help you learn these vital skills to begin building the life you choose. If you’re tired of being stuck in suffering and emotional pain, I’d like to help you find your way through. -Adult clients only at this time.-
Whether you have a diagnosis of Borderline Personality Disorder, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, disordered eating/eating disorders, co-occurring substance use, depressive or anxiety disorders, together we will find the best treatment approach to address your specific goals.
Do any of these comments sound familiar? “You’re too emotional.” “You’re so dramatic.” “Why can’t you just let it go?” “You’re so sensitive!” Do you struggle to cope without going to extremes? Too many people haven’t been taught how to cope with the struggles of life in healthy, effective ways and instead find any possible way to feel better, as quickly as possible. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) in particular can help you learn these vital skills to begin building the life you choose. If you’re tired of being stuck in suffering and emotional pain, I’d like to help you find your way through. -Adult clients only at this time.-
(971) 287-1587 View (971) 287-1587
Photo of Dr. Dianna Harris (Accepting New Clients), Psychologist in Tillamook, OR
Dr. Dianna Harris (Accepting New Clients)
Psychologist, PsyD, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Beaverton, OR 97005
I have successfully helped people reduce anxiety and depression that has only partially been helped through therapy by adding psychiatric medication that is targeted to treat worry, panic, OCD, depression and bipolar symptoms.
Accepting NEW Clients (ages 18-65) as of 5/13/24 for Medication Management (I am not taking clients for therapy). Appointments are available in 2 weeks. Complete the Patient Inquiry Form on my website. You will receive a response the same or next day. My practice is primarily composed of adults struggling with anxiety and depression. I find that people reach out to treatment when excessive worry, low motivation, and negative thinking can lead to feeling less confident in their work, behind on tasks at home, and impacting their relationships. I don't treat ADHD and I don't prescribe controlled substances, such as Xanax for anxiety.
I have successfully helped people reduce anxiety and depression that has only partially been helped through therapy by adding psychiatric medication that is targeted to treat worry, panic, OCD, depression and bipolar symptoms.
Accepting NEW Clients (ages 18-65) as of 5/13/24 for Medication Management (I am not taking clients for therapy). Appointments are available in 2 weeks. Complete the Patient Inquiry Form on my website. You will receive a response the same or next day. My practice is primarily composed of adults struggling with anxiety and depression. I find that people reach out to treatment when excessive worry, low motivation, and negative thinking can lead to feeling less confident in their work, behind on tasks at home, and impacting their relationships. I don't treat ADHD and I don't prescribe controlled substances, such as Xanax for anxiety.
(971) 265-6721 View (971) 265-6721
Photo of Dianna Harris (Accepting New Clients), Psychologist in Tillamook, OR
Dianna Harris (Accepting New Clients)
Psychologist, PsyD, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Salem, OR 97302
I have successfully helped people reduce anxiety and depression that has only partially been helped through therapy by adding psychiatric medication that is targeted to treat worry, panic, OCD, depression and bipolar symptoms.
Accepting NEW Clients (ages 18-65) as of 5/13/24 for Medication Management (I am not taking clients for therapy). Appointments are available in 2 weeks. Complete the Patient Inquiry Form on my website. You will receive a response the same or next day. My practice is primarily composed of adults struggling with anxiety and depression. I find that people reach out to treatment when excessive worry, low motivation, and negative thinking can lead to feeling less confident in their work, behind on tasks at home, and impacting their relationships. I don't treat ADHD and I don't prescribe controlled substances, such as Xanax for anxiety.
I have successfully helped people reduce anxiety and depression that has only partially been helped through therapy by adding psychiatric medication that is targeted to treat worry, panic, OCD, depression and bipolar symptoms.
Accepting NEW Clients (ages 18-65) as of 5/13/24 for Medication Management (I am not taking clients for therapy). Appointments are available in 2 weeks. Complete the Patient Inquiry Form on my website. You will receive a response the same or next day. My practice is primarily composed of adults struggling with anxiety and depression. I find that people reach out to treatment when excessive worry, low motivation, and negative thinking can lead to feeling less confident in their work, behind on tasks at home, and impacting their relationships. I don't treat ADHD and I don't prescribe controlled substances, such as Xanax for anxiety.
(971) 306-4143 View (971) 306-4143

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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.