Psychotherapeutic Treatment

In selecting a therapist that is the "best fit" it is important to consider rapport, ability to collaborate, experience, and expertise in treating bipolar conditions. The most positive outcomes seem to be achieved by clinicians who are trained in empirically supported treatments (ESTs).

A longstanding EST is cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which helps people change underlying beliefs and maladaptive behaviors to facilitate reduction of negative depressive and manic symptoms. CBT also is effective with anxiety and obsessive-compulsive symptoms, which often accompany bipolar conditions. Interpersonal social rhythm therapy (IPSRT) facilitates functional and mood stability by examining and restructuring individuals' current activities, sleep-wake cycles, relationships, and situational stressors. Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) was developed to treat borderline personality disorder, but recent applications also have proven effective in treating bipolar conditions in adults and adolescents. Family-focused treatment was developed for pediatric bipolar disorder, though adult interventions often incorporate family supports to help individuals recognize early warning signs and prevent relapse. Many therapists integrate components of different ESTs to address specific patient needs. Regardless of which therapist or type of treatment you choose, it is important to ask how your progress will be regularly assessed and monitored, since ongoing monitoring has been shown to facilitate the best outcomes.

Contact our Personal Advocate to help you to find the right provider for your needs.