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Bipolar Disorder Therapists in San Jose, CA

Photo of Melody D London, PhD, Psychologist
Melody D London
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95129  (Online Only)
She has specific training in personal growth, learning about emotions, understanding relationships, conflict resolution, intimacy problems, bipolar disorder, depression and substance overuse.
Dr. London has 20 years of experience providing services in a confidential space where you can safely explore your concerns. You can work though personal and professional transitions by learning new skills and improving relationships or, if desired, you can be led to heal from pain, conquer substance overuse or better understand and cope with bipolar disorder, depression or anxiety. Your journey will be personally crafted to meet your specific needs. Your goals, needs and perspectives will be an integral part of your treatment plan. Your therapy will be part of a collaborative process in which you will be an active participant.
She has specific training in personal growth, learning about emotions, understanding relationships, conflict resolution, intimacy problems, bipolar disorder, depression and substance overuse.
Dr. London has 20 years of experience providing services in a confidential space where you can safely explore your concerns. You can work though personal and professional transitions by learning new skills and improving relationships or, if desired, you can be led to heal from pain, conquer substance overuse or better understand and cope with bipolar disorder, depression or anxiety. Your journey will be personally crafted to meet your specific needs. Your goals, needs and perspectives will be an integral part of your treatment plan. Your therapy will be part of a collaborative process in which you will be an active participant.
(408) 214-8477 View (408) 214-8477
Photo of Melinda Carlisle Brackett, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Melinda Carlisle Brackett
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95126
Are you looking for therapy that is efficient, time-sensitive, and focused on practical strategies? I am a Behavioral Therapist whose approach includes short-term, evidence-based therapies for adults, couples, parents, adolescents and groups. My style is collaborative and includes skill-building in critical areas such as communication and relationship repair. I treat complex Mood Disorders, Anxiety, Panic, Bipolar, Depression, and Borderline Personality Disorder. I'm clear and direct- keeping our work on track so you meet your goals- while building in you the capacity for flexibility in order to have a peaceful and enjoyable life.
Are you looking for therapy that is efficient, time-sensitive, and focused on practical strategies? I am a Behavioral Therapist whose approach includes short-term, evidence-based therapies for adults, couples, parents, adolescents and groups. My style is collaborative and includes skill-building in critical areas such as communication and relationship repair. I treat complex Mood Disorders, Anxiety, Panic, Bipolar, Depression, and Borderline Personality Disorder. I'm clear and direct- keeping our work on track so you meet your goals- while building in you the capacity for flexibility in order to have a peaceful and enjoyable life.
(408) 641-6424 View (408) 641-6424
Photo of Bonnie Jones, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bonnie Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95112  (Online Only)
Brynn graduated with her master's in social work in 2014. Her philosophy of care is grounded in compassion and curiosity, with a focus on being direct and honest. She uses a strengths-based approach, serving with empathy while also advocating for needed support. Brynn recognizes the courage and resiliency in every client, holding equal respect for their challenges, traumas, triumphs, and achievements. Her expertise is in trauma-informed cognitive behavioral therapy, specializing in diagnoses including Anxiety, Depression, OCD, and Bipolar Disorder. She enjoys working with moms, the LGBTQQ+ community, and young adults.
Brynn graduated with her master's in social work in 2014. Her philosophy of care is grounded in compassion and curiosity, with a focus on being direct and honest. She uses a strengths-based approach, serving with empathy while also advocating for needed support. Brynn recognizes the courage and resiliency in every client, holding equal respect for their challenges, traumas, triumphs, and achievements. Her expertise is in trauma-informed cognitive behavioral therapy, specializing in diagnoses including Anxiety, Depression, OCD, and Bipolar Disorder. She enjoys working with moms, the LGBTQQ+ community, and young adults.
(669) 303-8570 View (669) 303-8570
Photo of Lesa M Pascali, Lesa Pascali, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lesa M Pascali
Marriage & Family Therapist, Lesa Pascali, MFT
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95110  (Online Only)
My work can include Conservatorship, case management & working with families with problems with neurological imbalances & diseases such as schizophrenia, bipolar disease & other issues.
Welcome! I’m Lesa Pascali and I am committed to connecting with individuals, couples and families through individualized therapy and to helping them to discover/rediscover the harmony, meaning and wellness within their lives. After 23 years in law enforcement and 18 years doing therapy, I have dealt with a variety of situations. I’ve worked with individuals, couples and families, veterans, ex-offenders, children, teens and neurologically imbalanced individuals. I use a variety of therapies including RLT therapy, CBT & Solution Focused therapy and am a Certified Relational Life couples therapist.
My work can include Conservatorship, case management & working with families with problems with neurological imbalances & diseases such as schizophrenia, bipolar disease & other issues.
Welcome! I’m Lesa Pascali and I am committed to connecting with individuals, couples and families through individualized therapy and to helping them to discover/rediscover the harmony, meaning and wellness within their lives. After 23 years in law enforcement and 18 years doing therapy, I have dealt with a variety of situations. I’ve worked with individuals, couples and families, veterans, ex-offenders, children, teens and neurologically imbalanced individuals. I use a variety of therapies including RLT therapy, CBT & Solution Focused therapy and am a Certified Relational Life couples therapist.
(408) 715-3046 View (408) 715-3046
Photo of Holly Osment, LMFT, LPCC, CST, Marriage & Family Therapist
Holly Osment
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC, CST
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95126
Specialties include bipolar disorder, life transitions, and sexual issues and/or concerns.
Life is complex at all ages, but we know that...right? Yet knowing this does not necessarily help or give us direction. In my work, I try to help guide people through this murky life, examine choices and explore options, personal history, and experience. I have a deep respect for my clients, for their wisdom and their struggles. I provide an encouraging and non-judgmental space to look at each unique concern and situation. I often explore the role of meaning and choice in our lives, and how both powerfully (but often invisibly) affect how we live our days.
Specialties include bipolar disorder, life transitions, and sexual issues and/or concerns.
Life is complex at all ages, but we know that...right? Yet knowing this does not necessarily help or give us direction. In my work, I try to help guide people through this murky life, examine choices and explore options, personal history, and experience. I have a deep respect for my clients, for their wisdom and their struggles. I provide an encouraging and non-judgmental space to look at each unique concern and situation. I often explore the role of meaning and choice in our lives, and how both powerfully (but often invisibly) affect how we live our days.
(408) 550-5101 View (408) 550-5101
Photo of Molly A Walsh, PhD, Psychologist
Molly A Walsh
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95124  (Online Only)
I am a licensed psychologist and help individuals overcome problems related to bipolar disorder, depression, emotion dysregulation, anxiety, stress management, and relationship difficulties. I completed postdoctoral training at Stanford University focused on evidence-based approaches to therapy that are supported by research. I utilize these approaches in my work, incorporating techniques from cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), mindfulness, and motivational interviewing (MI) depending on client need.
I am a licensed psychologist and help individuals overcome problems related to bipolar disorder, depression, emotion dysregulation, anxiety, stress management, and relationship difficulties. I completed postdoctoral training at Stanford University focused on evidence-based approaches to therapy that are supported by research. I utilize these approaches in my work, incorporating techniques from cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), mindfulness, and motivational interviewing (MI) depending on client need.
(650) 830-3087 View (650) 830-3087
Photo of Christi Bell, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christi Bell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95127
Hello! My name is Christi Bell. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and I'm looking forward to working with you! I believe that the best therapy happens in partnership between the therapist and the client. My focus of clinical practice is working with teenagers and adults in the LGBTQIA2S+ community and survivors of trauma. I look forward to getting to know you better! I enjoy working with adolescents and adults up to age 50 who have been diagnosed with depression, anxiety, panic disorder, bipolar disorder, body dysmorphia, and PTSD. I specialize in working with members of the LGBTQIA2S+ community and survivors of trauma.
Hello! My name is Christi Bell. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and I'm looking forward to working with you! I believe that the best therapy happens in partnership between the therapist and the client. My focus of clinical practice is working with teenagers and adults in the LGBTQIA2S+ community and survivors of trauma. I look forward to getting to know you better! I enjoy working with adolescents and adults up to age 50 who have been diagnosed with depression, anxiety, panic disorder, bipolar disorder, body dysmorphia, and PTSD. I specialize in working with members of the LGBTQIA2S+ community and survivors of trauma.
(650) 663-4273 View (650) 663-4273
Photo of Deborah Johnson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Deborah Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95112
Greetings, my name is Deborah Johnson, Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I work with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adolescents, adults, and couples. My areas of expertise are working with depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, generalized anxiety, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, trauma-informed and focused, and co-occurring disorders. My typical client population is comprised of mood disorders, including Major Depressive Disorder and Bipolar Disorder, a spectrum of Anxiety Disorders, including Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, and Panic Disorder.
Greetings, my name is Deborah Johnson, Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I work with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adolescents, adults, and couples. My areas of expertise are working with depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, generalized anxiety, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, trauma-informed and focused, and co-occurring disorders. My typical client population is comprised of mood disorders, including Major Depressive Disorder and Bipolar Disorder, a spectrum of Anxiety Disorders, including Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, and Panic Disorder.
(408) 715-1383 View (408) 715-1383
Photo of Nadia Nader, PhD, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nadia Nader
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95138
Welcome to all of you. I am primarily trained in health psychology, working with those hoping to harmonize their body and mind benefiting from alternative and integrative initiatives. I am comfortable treating issues of dual realities: behaviors; bipolar disorder; death; hyphenated/intersectional identities; inter/multi-generational traumas; relationships (children/parents, couples, blended families, siblings); life transitions and personal journeys of assimilation, breakup, borders crossing, conversion, displacement, divorce, migration, sobriety and transitioning - all great examples of the incredible power of human transformation.
Welcome to all of you. I am primarily trained in health psychology, working with those hoping to harmonize their body and mind benefiting from alternative and integrative initiatives. I am comfortable treating issues of dual realities: behaviors; bipolar disorder; death; hyphenated/intersectional identities; inter/multi-generational traumas; relationships (children/parents, couples, blended families, siblings); life transitions and personal journeys of assimilation, breakup, borders crossing, conversion, displacement, divorce, migration, sobriety and transitioning - all great examples of the incredible power of human transformation.
(408) 617-9077 View (408) 617-9077
Photo of R Brian Salinas, PsyD, MA, Psychologist
R Brian Salinas
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95123  (Online Only)
As an adult in today’s society the pressures and stress take their toll on our mental health. I work with adults, helping them develop the skills necessary to successfully navigate life’s stressors. My work addresses a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, divorce and other family issues, substance abuse and dependence, trauma, stage of life issues, professional stresses and transitions, and deeper exploration of emotional, psychological and spiritual issues. I use a mix of approaches designed to help my patients gain insight and deal with the core issues they wish to address.
As an adult in today’s society the pressures and stress take their toll on our mental health. I work with adults, helping them develop the skills necessary to successfully navigate life’s stressors. My work addresses a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, divorce and other family issues, substance abuse and dependence, trauma, stage of life issues, professional stresses and transitions, and deeper exploration of emotional, psychological and spiritual issues. I use a mix of approaches designed to help my patients gain insight and deal with the core issues they wish to address.
(408) 461-3118 View (408) 461-3118
Private
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95120
I work with clients who are diagnosed with Bipolar disorder, mood disorder, personality disorders, borderline personality disorder, anxiety and depression.
Clients are looking for someone who can help them with their depression, anxiety, and someone who can help them learn more about themselves, and to help them improve their self-awareness. Clients have different issues, and they need to have someone being a good listener, validating, and acknowledging them throughout the sessions. Clients like to see their therapist help them to see the life with better lens, so they become more focused and stay in the present moment by learning healthy coping skills to make better decisions about their personal life, their careers, or when they’re not sure how to live a healthier life.
I work with clients who are diagnosed with Bipolar disorder, mood disorder, personality disorders, borderline personality disorder, anxiety and depression.
Clients are looking for someone who can help them with their depression, anxiety, and someone who can help them learn more about themselves, and to help them improve their self-awareness. Clients have different issues, and they need to have someone being a good listener, validating, and acknowledging them throughout the sessions. Clients like to see their therapist help them to see the life with better lens, so they become more focused and stay in the present moment by learning healthy coping skills to make better decisions about their personal life, their careers, or when they’re not sure how to live a healthier life.
(408) 692-9811 View (408) 692-9811
Photo of Cristina M. Collada, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cristina M. Collada
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95117
My approach is supportive, direct, and problem-focused. I utilize evidenced-based approaches including EMDR, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, and Mindfulness-based techniques. With over 30 years of experience in the public and private sectors, I have extensive training and knowledge in the Assessment, Diagnosis and Treatment of a variety of mental health issues including Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Trauma, Addiction, Psychotic Disorders, Relationship Issues, Stress Management, Self-esteem Issues, Grief and Loss. I also have extensive experience responding to critical incidents including mass shootings and natural disasters.
My approach is supportive, direct, and problem-focused. I utilize evidenced-based approaches including EMDR, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, and Mindfulness-based techniques. With over 30 years of experience in the public and private sectors, I have extensive training and knowledge in the Assessment, Diagnosis and Treatment of a variety of mental health issues including Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Trauma, Addiction, Psychotic Disorders, Relationship Issues, Stress Management, Self-esteem Issues, Grief and Loss. I also have extensive experience responding to critical incidents including mass shootings and natural disasters.
(408) 549-8980 View (408) 549-8980
Photo of Yessica Islas McLenegan, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Yessica Islas McLenegan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95125  (Online Only)
My specialities include working with depression, anxiety, PTSD, social anxiety, bipolar disorder, adjustment disorder, and stress. I have experience working with adults and young adults. I provide Individual therapy.
My specialities include working with depression, anxiety, PTSD, social anxiety, bipolar disorder, adjustment disorder, and stress. I have experience working with adults and young adults. I provide Individual therapy.
(408) 763-5195 View (408) 763-5195
Photo of Melissa E Miller, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Melissa E Miller
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95117  (Online Only)
Are you a worried parent of a teenager who's headed for trouble, or is already there? I'll help you get your kid back on track. Are you suffering the aftereffects of trauma (nightmares, flashbacks, intrusive thoughts, feeling disconnected from yourself and loved ones)? We'll find a way to heal your pain and make you whole again. Had enough of the bipolar roller-coaster? Want to break free of alcohol, substances, and other addictions, including eating disorders? Let's develop a plan for your recovery, so you have your life back.
Are you a worried parent of a teenager who's headed for trouble, or is already there? I'll help you get your kid back on track. Are you suffering the aftereffects of trauma (nightmares, flashbacks, intrusive thoughts, feeling disconnected from yourself and loved ones)? We'll find a way to heal your pain and make you whole again. Had enough of the bipolar roller-coaster? Want to break free of alcohol, substances, and other addictions, including eating disorders? Let's develop a plan for your recovery, so you have your life back.
(408) 676-9909 x408835 View (408) 676-9909 x408835
Photo of Michael A Schmidt, PhD, Psychologist
Michael A Schmidt
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95110
We provide testing and therapy services to youth and adults struggling in their everyday functioning. PSYCHOTHERAPY: Treatment for youth, families, and adults with mild to severe depression, suicidality/hospitalization, anxiety, behavioral issues, relationship distress, and more. TESTING: Cognitive Testing (IQ/mental abilities); Psychoeducational Testing (Learning Disability/academic achievement); Developmental Testing (Autism Spectrum Disorder, language/motor delay, behavioral disturbance); ADHD Testing (distractibility/concentration, fidgety, impulsive); Behavioral/Emotional Testing (Depression, Schizophrenia, Bipolar, Anxiety).
We provide testing and therapy services to youth and adults struggling in their everyday functioning. PSYCHOTHERAPY: Treatment for youth, families, and adults with mild to severe depression, suicidality/hospitalization, anxiety, behavioral issues, relationship distress, and more. TESTING: Cognitive Testing (IQ/mental abilities); Psychoeducational Testing (Learning Disability/academic achievement); Developmental Testing (Autism Spectrum Disorder, language/motor delay, behavioral disturbance); ADHD Testing (distractibility/concentration, fidgety, impulsive); Behavioral/Emotional Testing (Depression, Schizophrenia, Bipolar, Anxiety).
(408) 418-2503 View (408) 418-2503
Photo of Tracy Lynn Fleming, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tracy Lynn Fleming
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95126
I specialize in the treatment of depression, bipolar disorder, relational issues, trauma, adjustment disorders, domestic violence, divorce and child custody/visitation issues, and issues related to sexual orientation.
Many people come to therapy to resolve problems in relationships, manage stress related to work and family, to learn how to adapt to minor and major changes in life, or simply to enhance one’s sense of self. I believe that clients are the experts in their own lives, and that my job as a therapist is to guide clients in resolving their issues by providing a wide variety of cognitive behavioral and mindfulness tools and techniques that can easily be applied to daily life and that will alleviate suffering in a relatively short period of time.
I specialize in the treatment of depression, bipolar disorder, relational issues, trauma, adjustment disorders, domestic violence, divorce and child custody/visitation issues, and issues related to sexual orientation.
Many people come to therapy to resolve problems in relationships, manage stress related to work and family, to learn how to adapt to minor and major changes in life, or simply to enhance one’s sense of self. I believe that clients are the experts in their own lives, and that my job as a therapist is to guide clients in resolving their issues by providing a wide variety of cognitive behavioral and mindfulness tools and techniques that can easily be applied to daily life and that will alleviate suffering in a relatively short period of time.
(408) 628-1061 View (408) 628-1061
Photo of Dulce Reyes, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dulce Reyes
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95124
Hi there, I'm Dulce Reyes, a Marriage & Family Therapist. I'm a bilingual therapist (English and Spanish) who has helped people with anxiety, depression, self esteem, bipolar disorder, borderline personality, relationship issues, life transitions, substance use, trauma, PTSD, and more. I use techniques from cognitive behavioral (CBT), dialectical behavioral (DBT), mindfulness-based, attachment-based, client centered, EMDR, and motivational interviewing modalities. Together, we will construct new, healthier, and more empowered narratives to find your inner voice, rewrite your story, heal, and discover your worth and value.
Hi there, I'm Dulce Reyes, a Marriage & Family Therapist. I'm a bilingual therapist (English and Spanish) who has helped people with anxiety, depression, self esteem, bipolar disorder, borderline personality, relationship issues, life transitions, substance use, trauma, PTSD, and more. I use techniques from cognitive behavioral (CBT), dialectical behavioral (DBT), mindfulness-based, attachment-based, client centered, EMDR, and motivational interviewing modalities. Together, we will construct new, healthier, and more empowered narratives to find your inner voice, rewrite your story, heal, and discover your worth and value.
(909) 310-1345 View (909) 310-1345
Photo of Kelly Albrecht, ASW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelly Albrecht
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, ASW
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95129
With expertise in substance use disorder, ADHD, bipolar and personality disorders, my holistic approach to therapy prioritizes safety and healing, with trauma-informed care.
Are you struggling to process depression, anxiety, relationship/family issues, and trauma? These emotional ruptures can cause major disruptions in our lives. The work to process these types of life events is multifaceted, and I can help you identify your feelings and potential relational patterns, build tolerance and acceptance around challenging ones, and set meaningful goals. In order to do so, I utilize various therapeutic approaches consisting of ACT, CBT, and Problem-Solving Therapy, and somatic interventions.
With expertise in substance use disorder, ADHD, bipolar and personality disorders, my holistic approach to therapy prioritizes safety and healing, with trauma-informed care.
Are you struggling to process depression, anxiety, relationship/family issues, and trauma? These emotional ruptures can cause major disruptions in our lives. The work to process these types of life events is multifaceted, and I can help you identify your feelings and potential relational patterns, build tolerance and acceptance around challenging ones, and set meaningful goals. In order to do so, I utilize various therapeutic approaches consisting of ACT, CBT, and Problem-Solving Therapy, and somatic interventions.
(650) 436-4565 View (650) 436-4565
Photo of Bryan Sanchez, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Bryan Sanchez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95136
The clients I typically worked with in the past have conditions of Trauma, Anxiety, Bipolar, and Depression, and some experience working with Psychotic disorders.
Hello. My name is Bryan Sanchez, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (146686) based in Northern California. I work with clients throughout California via Telehealth. I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. My focus areas of practice are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy for treating Trauma, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, and Depression.
The clients I typically worked with in the past have conditions of Trauma, Anxiety, Bipolar, and Depression, and some experience working with Psychotic disorders.
Hello. My name is Bryan Sanchez, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (146686) based in Northern California. I work with clients throughout California via Telehealth. I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. My focus areas of practice are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy for treating Trauma, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, and Depression.
(831) 653-5755 View (831) 653-5755
Photo of Stephen Gutknecht, LCP, Psychologist
Stephen Gutknecht
Psychologist, LCP
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95125
These issues range from anxiety and depression to PTSD, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia spectrum disorders.
Hi there, I am Dr. Stephen Gutknecht! I have a rich experience covering a wide range of issues. My approach stems from both Cognitive Behavior Therapy as well as Existential theory. I believe how we communicate with ourselves, and others, changes the perspective we hold and are seen through. When people are empowered through being heard, emotionally supported, helped to develop skills they have a greater ability to lead emotionally healthy lives.
These issues range from anxiety and depression to PTSD, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia spectrum disorders.
Hi there, I am Dr. Stephen Gutknecht! I have a rich experience covering a wide range of issues. My approach stems from both Cognitive Behavior Therapy as well as Existential theory. I believe how we communicate with ourselves, and others, changes the perspective we hold and are seen through. When people are empowered through being heard, emotionally supported, helped to develop skills they have a greater ability to lead emotionally healthy lives.
(818) 456-1780 View (818) 456-1780
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.