Bipolar Disorder Counselling in West London, London

Photo of Nuria Bara-Carril, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Nuria Bara-Carril
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
West London, London W4
I am a Chartered Clinical Psychologist working with adults to address mild to severe psychological difficulties including anxiety, depression, OCD and Bipolar Affective Disorder. I can also help with concerns around stress, relationships, challenging life events, loss, adjustment to illness, low self-esteem, and unresolved childhood issues. Since becoming a mother, I have developed a specific interest in working with maternal mental health and wellbeing. I frequently support parents as they navigate the new demands, change in role and stresses that come with pregnancy and parenthood.
I am a Chartered Clinical Psychologist working with adults to address mild to severe psychological difficulties including anxiety, depression, OCD and Bipolar Affective Disorder. I can also help with concerns around stress, relationships, challenging life events, loss, adjustment to illness, low self-esteem, and unresolved childhood issues. Since becoming a mother, I have developed a specific interest in working with maternal mental health and wellbeing. I frequently support parents as they navigate the new demands, change in role and stresses that come with pregnancy and parenthood.
020 4538 8943 View 020 4538 8943
Photo of Keyong Ma, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Keyong Ma
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
West London, London W14  (Online Only)
With a diverse background in community psychological services, NHS secondary care affective disorder services, specialist eating disorder services, and NeuroDevelopmental Disorder services, I possess a wealth of experience in addressing a wide range of issues, including ADHD, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, emotion dysregulation, borderline disorder, bipolar disorders and trauma. I aim to tailor treatment to meet the specific needs of clients, rather than requiring clients to adapt to a pre-determined model.
With a diverse background in community psychological services, NHS secondary care affective disorder services, specialist eating disorder services, and NeuroDevelopmental Disorder services, I possess a wealth of experience in addressing a wide range of issues, including ADHD, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, emotion dysregulation, borderline disorder, bipolar disorders and trauma. I aim to tailor treatment to meet the specific needs of clients, rather than requiring clients to adapt to a pre-determined model.
020 4538 4999 View 020 4538 4999
Photo of Michelle Lam, MSc, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Michelle Lam
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
West London, London W13
I specialise in working with personality disorders EUPD, young people, exam stress, trauma, pstd, bereavement, sexual abuse, generalised anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, panic attacks, low-self esteem, depression, stress, existential crisis, self harm, life transitions, sex and relationships and familial conflicts. I adapt my practise to each individual's needs and can provide (DBT) Dialectical Behavioural Therapy aimed at helping with distress tolerance and interpersonal relationships. I will work with you to help gain a better understanding of the cause of these issues and find ways to move forward.
I specialise in working with personality disorders EUPD, young people, exam stress, trauma, pstd, bereavement, sexual abuse, generalised anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, panic attacks, low-self esteem, depression, stress, existential crisis, self harm, life transitions, sex and relationships and familial conflicts. I adapt my practise to each individual's needs and can provide (DBT) Dialectical Behavioural Therapy aimed at helping with distress tolerance and interpersonal relationships. I will work with you to help gain a better understanding of the cause of these issues and find ways to move forward.
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Photo of Eoghan Naughton, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Eoghan Naughton
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West London, London W1W
My approach aims to provide a safe and trusted space, respectful of each individual's capacity for personal growth. Psychotherapy seeks to help each individual live a more fulfilling life. My aim is to help each person find what works in dealing with the particular circumstances and stresses which cause suffering. I have experience and training in working with complex and longstanding mental health problems such as interpersonal difficulties, bipolar affective disorder, severe depression, trauma and anxiety and currently work in the NHS in secondary care. I have worked as a visiting lecturer at City University.
My approach aims to provide a safe and trusted space, respectful of each individual's capacity for personal growth. Psychotherapy seeks to help each individual live a more fulfilling life. My aim is to help each person find what works in dealing with the particular circumstances and stresses which cause suffering. I have experience and training in working with complex and longstanding mental health problems such as interpersonal difficulties, bipolar affective disorder, severe depression, trauma and anxiety and currently work in the NHS in secondary care. I have worked as a visiting lecturer at City University.
020 3974 1455 View 020 3974 1455
Photo of Anastasios Toumpanakis, PsychD, CPsychol, Psychologist
Anastasios Toumpanakis
Psychologist, PsychD, CPsychol
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West London, London W4
Need to find the right person to talk to? If you have only just started to look for help you maybe feeling confused or even overwhelmed by the choice of therapies and therapists available - I understand and am here to help. I work with a wide range of concerns including complex and longstanding conditions, such as anxiety disorders, depression, personality disorders, obsessive compulsive disorder, alcohol/drug/gambling addiction, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, bipolar affective disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and psychosis.
Need to find the right person to talk to? If you have only just started to look for help you maybe feeling confused or even overwhelmed by the choice of therapies and therapists available - I understand and am here to help. I work with a wide range of concerns including complex and longstanding conditions, such as anxiety disorders, depression, personality disorders, obsessive compulsive disorder, alcohol/drug/gambling addiction, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, bipolar affective disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and psychosis.
020 7046 0669 View 020 7046 0669
Photo of Tim Walker, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Tim Walker
Psychologist, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
West London, London W1G
He has experience working with clients presenting with a wide range of psychological issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, phobias, identity issues, grief, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, self-esteem issues, relationship problems and many more.
Dr Tim Walker is a BPS Chartered & HCPC Registered Counselling Psychologist. Drawing from senior NHS clinical experience, he runs a successful private practice operating both in central London and in Marlow, Buckinghamshire. Accredited with major healthcare insurance providers, Tim is an experienced clinician with specialist skills in delivering evidence-based psychological interventions using a wide range of proven therapies including CBT, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), Mindfulness and Schema-focused Therapy, but always maintains a focus on the client’s individual needs and goals.
He has experience working with clients presenting with a wide range of psychological issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, phobias, identity issues, grief, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, self-esteem issues, relationship problems and many more.
Dr Tim Walker is a BPS Chartered & HCPC Registered Counselling Psychologist. Drawing from senior NHS clinical experience, he runs a successful private practice operating both in central London and in Marlow, Buckinghamshire. Accredited with major healthcare insurance providers, Tim is an experienced clinician with specialist skills in delivering evidence-based psychological interventions using a wide range of proven therapies including CBT, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), Mindfulness and Schema-focused Therapy, but always maintains a focus on the client’s individual needs and goals.
01628 951201 View 01628 951201
Photo of Dr Joana Breda Vidal, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Joana Breda Vidal
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
West London, London W4  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I'm a Clinical Psychologist with over 15 years of NHS mental health experience who has worked with people experiencing a variety of difficulties, including: stress, anxiety, low mood, anger, relationship difficulties, bipolar affective disorder, bereavement, dementia, chronic pain and physical health problems. I work with adult individuals and couples and am available on weekdays between 9.30am and 3.30pm online.
I'm a Clinical Psychologist with over 15 years of NHS mental health experience who has worked with people experiencing a variety of difficulties, including: stress, anxiety, low mood, anger, relationship difficulties, bipolar affective disorder, bereavement, dementia, chronic pain and physical health problems. I work with adult individuals and couples and am available on weekdays between 9.30am and 3.30pm online.
01227 532612 View 01227 532612
Photo of Melissa Thompson, DCounsPsych, MBACP, Counsellor
Melissa Thompson
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
West London, London W8
I specialise in the following areas anxiety/generalised anxiety disorder, depression, stress, bereavement, trauma, low self esteem, abuse, bipolar, obsessive compulsive disorder and relationship problems.
Reaching out for help can be hard but it is an important step in the right direction towards living your life fully. Sometimes trying to navigate through life alone can be confusing and speaking to friends or family can often be too difficult, this is why talking to a neutral professional counsellor can provide you with the support you need. I offer a safe, confidential and non-judgemental space where you can explore the areas of your life that you are struggling with. By exploring your thoughts, feelings and behaviours of the past and present I can help you gain better self-awareness and overcome the obstacles weighing you down.
I specialise in the following areas anxiety/generalised anxiety disorder, depression, stress, bereavement, trauma, low self esteem, abuse, bipolar, obsessive compulsive disorder and relationship problems.
Reaching out for help can be hard but it is an important step in the right direction towards living your life fully. Sometimes trying to navigate through life alone can be confusing and speaking to friends or family can often be too difficult, this is why talking to a neutral professional counsellor can provide you with the support you need. I offer a safe, confidential and non-judgemental space where you can explore the areas of your life that you are struggling with. By exploring your thoughts, feelings and behaviours of the past and present I can help you gain better self-awareness and overcome the obstacles weighing you down.
020 8138 0228 View 020 8138 0228
Photo of Melissa Steyn - Melissa Steyn, DCounsPsych, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Melissa Steyn
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
West London, London W1G  (Online Only)
I have experience in working with eating disorders, ADHD, autism, Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), Bipolar Disorder, addictions, self-abuse, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), depression, stress, anxiety, low self-esteem, bullying, social anxiety, grief and loss, bullying, childhood sexual abuse, narcissistic abuse, domestic abuse and rape.
I work from a Humanistic stance and integrate the following approaches: Person-centred Therapy, Transactional Analysis, Gestalt, Existential Psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Polyvagal Theory, Mindfulness Meditation, Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused Approach, Inner Child Healing, Creative Therapies and Compassionate Mind Training. Moreover, I work holistically thus exploring the mind-body connection; alongside helping clients to gain a better understanding of the automatic nervous system (ANS) and more importantly to learn how to regulate their nervous system.
I have experience in working with eating disorders, ADHD, autism, Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), Bipolar Disorder, addictions, self-abuse, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), depression, stress, anxiety, low self-esteem, bullying, social anxiety, grief and loss, bullying, childhood sexual abuse, narcissistic abuse, domestic abuse and rape.
I work from a Humanistic stance and integrate the following approaches: Person-centred Therapy, Transactional Analysis, Gestalt, Existential Psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Polyvagal Theory, Mindfulness Meditation, Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused Approach, Inner Child Healing, Creative Therapies and Compassionate Mind Training. Moreover, I work holistically thus exploring the mind-body connection; alongside helping clients to gain a better understanding of the automatic nervous system (ANS) and more importantly to learn how to regulate their nervous system.
01642 065522 View 01642 065522
Photo of Samantha McDonnell, MBACP, Counsellor
Samantha McDonnell
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
West London, London W6
I work with a diverse range of clients and issues, including extensive experience with LGBTQ, those with personality disorders, PTSD/CPTSD, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, low self-esteem, and/or survivors of bullying, sexual, domestic or historical abuse.
Are you affected by issues like anxiety, depression, addiction, abuse, loss, or relationships? My approach is compassionate and holistic, incorporating Sensorimotor Psyhotherapy, Internal Family Systems and Emotional Freedom Technique, to treat the somatic, emotional and psychological elements of unresolved trauma. Such symptoms may lie deep within the body, often at an unconscious level, and which traditional talking therapies may fail to address. I value our uniqueness as individuals and believe that we each have an innate capacity for healing and growth. I work with adults and offer both short-term and open-ended work.
I work with a diverse range of clients and issues, including extensive experience with LGBTQ, those with personality disorders, PTSD/CPTSD, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, low self-esteem, and/or survivors of bullying, sexual, domestic or historical abuse.
Are you affected by issues like anxiety, depression, addiction, abuse, loss, or relationships? My approach is compassionate and holistic, incorporating Sensorimotor Psyhotherapy, Internal Family Systems and Emotional Freedom Technique, to treat the somatic, emotional and psychological elements of unresolved trauma. Such symptoms may lie deep within the body, often at an unconscious level, and which traditional talking therapies may fail to address. I value our uniqueness as individuals and believe that we each have an innate capacity for healing and growth. I work with adults and offer both short-term and open-ended work.
020 3973 9250 View 020 3973 9250
Photo of Julie Bridger, MA, MBACP, Counsellor
Julie Bridger
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
West London, London W5
Hi, I'm Julie. Since 2013, I’ve worked with people from all over the world to offer a warm, reflective space where they can build the tools they need to live more fully. Typically, my trauma informed and integrative approach helps people move forward with challenges such as: - Anxiety and depression - ADHD - Hypersensitivity - Bipolar disorders - any feelings of difference rooted in neurodivergence - co-dependency, emotional or physical abuse, anger management professional or interpersonal struggles. Therapy is ultimately about both healing and better understanding yourself, and using that understanding to enhance your life.
Hi, I'm Julie. Since 2013, I’ve worked with people from all over the world to offer a warm, reflective space where they can build the tools they need to live more fully. Typically, my trauma informed and integrative approach helps people move forward with challenges such as: - Anxiety and depression - ADHD - Hypersensitivity - Bipolar disorders - any feelings of difference rooted in neurodivergence - co-dependency, emotional or physical abuse, anger management professional or interpersonal struggles. Therapy is ultimately about both healing and better understanding yourself, and using that understanding to enhance your life.
01273 092705 View 01273 092705
Photo of Samantha Jayne Byron, BACP, Psychotherapist
Samantha Jayne Byron
Psychotherapist, BACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West London, London W9
As a clinical psychotherapist,​ I have over 10 year’s experience of working with patients and clients with many different struggles and difficulties. Trained as an integrative therapist, I work in a unique way that is based on your own individual needs. I believe that everyone is different and not every modality suits everyone. I know only too well how difficult life can be, yet uniquely different, we all suffer pain and loss in many similar ways. I feel truly humbled to work in this field and would be honoured to support you. You are not alone.
As a clinical psychotherapist,​ I have over 10 year’s experience of working with patients and clients with many different struggles and difficulties. Trained as an integrative therapist, I work in a unique way that is based on your own individual needs. I believe that everyone is different and not every modality suits everyone. I know only too well how difficult life can be, yet uniquely different, we all suffer pain and loss in many similar ways. I feel truly humbled to work in this field and would be honoured to support you. You are not alone.
020 3984 8715 View 020 3984 8715
Photo of Michaela de Cruz - MdC Music Therapy, MA, HCPC-Music Therap., Psychotherapist
MdC Music Therapy
Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Music Therap.
Verified Verified
West London, London W1G  (Online Only)
I believe in each person’s innate musicality (Trevarthen and Malloch 2000) and recognise each person’s musical and creative core. I believe we are all resilient and resourceful but that many forces in the world, including racism, sexism, colonialism, capitalism, and more, consistently try to disconnect us from our inner power and the power of our collective communities. I believe strongly in the capacity of music in therapy to restore this connection, empowering us to access our authentic musicality and creativity and our buried resilience. I am here to support your healing in the way that feels best for you.
I believe in each person’s innate musicality (Trevarthen and Malloch 2000) and recognise each person’s musical and creative core. I believe we are all resilient and resourceful but that many forces in the world, including racism, sexism, colonialism, capitalism, and more, consistently try to disconnect us from our inner power and the power of our collective communities. I believe strongly in the capacity of music in therapy to restore this connection, empowering us to access our authentic musicality and creativity and our buried resilience. I am here to support your healing in the way that feels best for you.
020 3879 4239 View 020 3879 4239
Photo of Shifaa Ali - Shifaa Healing Hearts & Minds, MA, MBACP, Counsellor
Shifaa Healing Hearts & Minds
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
West London, London W10  (Online Only)
Shifaa, fittingly means 'healing.' With nearly a decade of experience in the mental health sector across private, NHS, and voluntary settings, I provide evidence-based counselling techniques tailored to your unique needs and goals. I prioritise genuine, trusting relationships as the foundation for healing and growth. Drawing from Person-Centred Therapy, I focus on your unique experiences and strengths, creating a safe space for you to explore and understand your emotions, thoughts, and experiences. I also incorporate object relations theories, examining how your early relationships impact your current emotional life.
Shifaa, fittingly means 'healing.' With nearly a decade of experience in the mental health sector across private, NHS, and voluntary settings, I provide evidence-based counselling techniques tailored to your unique needs and goals. I prioritise genuine, trusting relationships as the foundation for healing and growth. Drawing from Person-Centred Therapy, I focus on your unique experiences and strengths, creating a safe space for you to explore and understand your emotions, thoughts, and experiences. I also incorporate object relations theories, examining how your early relationships impact your current emotional life.
020 7078 8658 View 020 7078 8658
Photo of Jozef Louis Bries, MSc, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist
Jozef Louis Bries
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
West London, London W7
i am a senior psychotherapist and counsellor who trained at the University of Roehampton, UK and with the Southern Association For Psychotherapy And Counselling, SAFPAC, (www.safpac.co.uk), and am the organisations' Honorary Secretary. Prior to this, I trained and qualified as a paramedic at the University of Hertfordshire, subsequently working both as an ambulance and helicopter air ambulance flight paramedic in different frontline and trauma services in London and the South East. I hold over 11 years clinical experience as a therapist and nearly 20 years clinical experience as a paramedic.
i am a senior psychotherapist and counsellor who trained at the University of Roehampton, UK and with the Southern Association For Psychotherapy And Counselling, SAFPAC, (www.safpac.co.uk), and am the organisations' Honorary Secretary. Prior to this, I trained and qualified as a paramedic at the University of Hertfordshire, subsequently working both as an ambulance and helicopter air ambulance flight paramedic in different frontline and trauma services in London and the South East. I hold over 11 years clinical experience as a therapist and nearly 20 years clinical experience as a paramedic.
020 8579 3038 View 020 8579 3038
Photo of James Mann, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
James Mann
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Verified Verified
West London, London W2  (Online Only)
Hello , I am James, my website is www.psychotherapynow.co.uk. I have worked for 25 years as a psychotherapist in central London. Before that I was employed mostly working with children and young people in some capacity or other. I am approachable and constructive. I enjoy what I do and I believe in the transformative power of therapy to bring about more life and better possibilities. I have taught at the Site for Contemporary Psychoanalysis for many years as well as the Philadelphia Association. I also have several talks and interviews on YouTube.
Hello , I am James, my website is www.psychotherapynow.co.uk. I have worked for 25 years as a psychotherapist in central London. Before that I was employed mostly working with children and young people in some capacity or other. I am approachable and constructive. I enjoy what I do and I believe in the transformative power of therapy to bring about more life and better possibilities. I have taught at the Site for Contemporary Psychoanalysis for many years as well as the Philadelphia Association. I also have several talks and interviews on YouTube.
020 3870 3635 View 020 3870 3635
Photo of Dr Cristian A Nica, MSc, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Cristian A Nica
Psychologist, MSc, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
West London, London W2
My goal is to enable a strong mental foundation where mindful skills will help you keep your life in reach. Progress means change, rehearsing new ways of thinking or a range of strategies to iterate development safely. The result, a genuine approach for you to always find a better way forward. I am HCPC-registered in clinical, counselling, health and occupational psychology. Supervisor, providing services beginning from eclectic CBT interventions (ACT, DBT or ST), the most effective and intuitive psychological framework.
My goal is to enable a strong mental foundation where mindful skills will help you keep your life in reach. Progress means change, rehearsing new ways of thinking or a range of strategies to iterate development safely. The result, a genuine approach for you to always find a better way forward. I am HCPC-registered in clinical, counselling, health and occupational psychology. Supervisor, providing services beginning from eclectic CBT interventions (ACT, DBT or ST), the most effective and intuitive psychological framework.
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Photo of Jon Gee, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Jon Gee
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Verified Verified
West London, London W1G  (Online Only)
I help highly driven professionals/entrepreneurs, particularly those in tech/finance/law/media/arts. I often work with those with experience of living life on the edge, and/or complex, troubled relationships. I work well with people for whom talking about personal matters feels very difficult. Those who feel disconnected from their bodies, and themselves. I am not easily shocked and I also understand the need for taking things slowly and sensitively. My approach is kind, practical, down-to-earth and creative.
I help highly driven professionals/entrepreneurs, particularly those in tech/finance/law/media/arts. I often work with those with experience of living life on the edge, and/or complex, troubled relationships. I work well with people for whom talking about personal matters feels very difficult. Those who feel disconnected from their bodies, and themselves. I am not easily shocked and I also understand the need for taking things slowly and sensitively. My approach is kind, practical, down-to-earth and creative.
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Photo of Letizia Orlando Counselling And Psychotherapy, MBACP, Counsellor
Letizia Orlando Counselling And Psychotherapy
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
West London, London W1G  (Online Only)
My first and foremost care is for you as my client. My counselling style is tailored to your personal circumstances and specific needs and to you as a whole. My priority to you is to promote your healing, facilitate your wholeness and ensure that your mental, physical and emotional levels are very soon back to their full potential. My personalized approach to therapy reflects elements of different schools. I will start by setting goals with you; consequently you will feel empowered to practice new behaviours, to move beyond your present limitations and you will very soon start to experience a greater satisfaction in your life.
My first and foremost care is for you as my client. My counselling style is tailored to your personal circumstances and specific needs and to you as a whole. My priority to you is to promote your healing, facilitate your wholeness and ensure that your mental, physical and emotional levels are very soon back to their full potential. My personalized approach to therapy reflects elements of different schools. I will start by setting goals with you; consequently you will feel empowered to practice new behaviours, to move beyond your present limitations and you will very soon start to experience a greater satisfaction in your life.
020 3870 2428 View 020 3870 2428
Photo of Juliet Anton - Dr Juliet Anton, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Juliet Anton
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West London, London W2  (Online Only)
Expressing our vulnerabilities can be risky especially if we feel our society is too quick to judge or misunderstand our personal experience(s). I completed my undergraduate studies at King’s College London and my postgraduate/ doctoral studies at the University of Surrey. I am able to work using a number of approaches including humanistic, psychodynamic, cognitive behavioural, integrative and EMDR approaches. I currently offer individual therapy online. I can offer a free 30-minute consultation where we can discuss what you want to work on and whether you feel we could work together to achieve your goals.
Expressing our vulnerabilities can be risky especially if we feel our society is too quick to judge or misunderstand our personal experience(s). I completed my undergraduate studies at King’s College London and my postgraduate/ doctoral studies at the University of Surrey. I am able to work using a number of approaches including humanistic, psychodynamic, cognitive behavioural, integrative and EMDR approaches. I currently offer individual therapy online. I can offer a free 30-minute consultation where we can discuss what you want to work on and whether you feel we could work together to achieve your goals.
020 8138 9230 View 020 8138 9230

See more therapy options for West London, London

Bipolar Disorder Counsellors

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.