About bipolar
Find local and online therapists who list bipolar among their specialties on this page. Each listing highlights approaches, credentials, languages and focus areas to help you compare options. Browse the therapist listings below to learn more and refine your search.
What to compare in entries
| Credentials | A US state licence, or membership of a professional body such as BACP or NCPS. They are different kinds of thing; each profile shows what was supplied. |
|---|---|
| Focus | Whether bipolar is listed as a main focus or among the wider list of areas. Entries show both. |
| Way of working | The approaches named on the entry. Two people working with the same concern can describe very different sessions. |
| Time in practice | Years in practice, as supplied. A fact to weigh, not a ranking. |
| Language | The languages sessions can be held in, where that matters to you. |
Common questions
How were these entries chosen?
Everyone listed on this page has bipolar among the areas they told the platform they work with. They are not ranked, rated or endorsed by this directory, and the order is not a recommendation.
Do I need a referral to start?
No. You can contact a therapist through their entry directly. A GP referral is not required for independent online therapy.
What if the first therapist is not right?
Changing therapist is normal and expected, and can be done at any point. One session is a small sample of how someone works.
Entries for bipolar
Savithri (Savi) Jayaweera, NCPS
Ref 151058
Compassionate counsellor for complex life challenges
Works with: Bipolar, Stress, Anxiety, Relationship Languages: English, Hindi, Sinhala
View listingCarmen Chaney, LIMHP
Ref 48397
Therapist blending practical skills and compassion
Works with: Bipolar, Stress, Anxiety, Family Languages: English
View listingJoy Nussen, LMFT
Ref 13668
Practical, compassionate therapy for adults
Works with: Bipolar, Stress, Anxiety, Relationship Languages: English
View listingJames French, BACP
Ref 203032
Practical support for anxiety and life transitions
Works with: Bipolar, Stress, Anxiety, Relationship Languages: English
View listingDr. Paula Alvarez, LCSW
Ref 29756
Compassionate clinical social worker with practical tools
Works with: Bipolar, Stress, Anxiety, Trauma and abuse Languages: English
View listingMargaret Johnston, LMHC
Ref 62092
Calm listening that helps you move forward
Works with: Bipolar, Stress, Anxiety, Trauma and abuse Languages: English
View listingDavid Potts, LCSW
Ref 23255
Practical, compassionate therapy for life changes
Works with: Bipolar, Stress, Anxiety, Trauma and abuse Languages: English
View listingRichard Gordon-Smith , NCPS
Ref 120083
Straightforward, experienced counsellor for complex issues
Works with: Bipolar, Stress, Anxiety, Relationship Languages: English
View listingAnnette OBryant, LPC
Ref 77726
Compassionate counselor focused on practical change
Works with: Bipolar, Stress, Anxiety, Trauma and abuse Languages: English
View listingAllysia Steward, LCSW
Ref 331970
Compassionate skills-based therapy for daily life
Works with: Bipolar, Stress, Anxiety, Grief Languages: English
View listingJoanne Rothery, NCPS
Ref 179003
Compassionate counsellor for stress and trauma
Works with: Bipolar, Stress, Anxiety, Addictions Languages: English
View listingJennifer Lee Sylvester, LCSW
Ref 116075
Experienced LCSW offering respectful, practical care
Works with: Bipolar, Stress, Anxiety, Trauma and abuse Languages: English
View listingSara Lowe, LPC
Ref 104527
Practical, compassionate therapy for life changes
Works with: Bipolar, Stress, Anxiety, Self esteem Languages: English
View listingMichael Pfisterer, LCSW
Ref 6636
Practical goal-focused therapy
Works with: Bipolar, Stress, Anxiety, Parenting Languages: English
View listingFrank Centonze, LPC
Ref 297421
Direct, practical counseling for emotional recovery
Works with: Bipolar, Stress, Anxiety, Addictions Languages: English
View listingJudith Ramsay, BACP
Ref 135275
Counselling that focuses on practical change
Works with: Bipolar, Stress, Anxiety, Self esteem Languages: English
View listingDestiny York, LPC
Ref 340789
Compassionate, practical counseling for life changes
Works with: Bipolar, Addictions, LGBT Languages: English
View listingCecile Terrelonge, BACP
Ref 134582
Person-centred counsellor offering practical support
Works with: Bipolar, Stress, Anxiety, LGBT Languages: English
View listingAnjanette Morton, LMHC
Ref 207471
Calm, practical support for life changes
Works with: Bipolar, Stress, Anxiety, Addictions Languages: English
View listingJoshua Plantz, LMHC
Ref 10378
Practical, goal-focused counseling for life challenges
Works with: Bipolar, Stress, Anxiety, Addictions Languages: English
View listingMichael Witham, LPC
Ref 56161
Practical, person-focused counseling for daily struggles
Works with: Bipolar, Stress, Anxiety, Trauma and abuse Languages: English
View listingRev. Catherine Bogue, LCSW
Ref 168255
Compassionate guidance for life’s hard changes
Works with: Bipolar, Stress, Anxiety, Addictions Languages: English
View listingFaith Beaulieu, LCMHC
Ref 23986
Somatic-minded counselor for focused change
Works with: Bipolar, Stress, Anxiety, LGBT Languages: English
View listingDianna Wheeler, LPC
Ref 354614
Practical support for healing and stronger coping skills
Works with: Bipolar, Stress, Anxiety, Trauma and abuse Languages: English
View listingJohn Swearengin, LPC
Ref 93490
Practical support for stress, addiction, and mood
Works with: Bipolar, Addictions, Trauma and abuse Languages: English
View listingMegan Warner, BACP
Ref 241754
Short-term practical counselling and coaching
Works with: Bipolar, Stress, Anxiety, Self esteem Languages: English
View listingClaudia Santiago, LCSW
Ref 149793
Practical, collaborative therapy for everyday struggles
Works with: Bipolar, Stress, Anxiety, Trauma and abuse Languages: English, Spanish
View listingDr. Yael Banai, LPC
Ref 120836
Experienced counselor with a calm style
Works with: Bipolar, Stress, Anxiety, Career Languages: English
View listingRobert Skuy, LCSW
Ref 53066
Practical, compassionate therapy for everyday struggles
Works with: Bipolar, Stress, Anxiety, Family Languages: English
View listingMaria Wilson, LCSW
Ref 138055
Understanding, practical support for everyday struggles
Works with: Bipolar, Stress, Anxiety, Relationship Languages: English
View listingVivian Fleming, LPCC
Ref 88191
Practical support for trauma and mood challenges
Works with: Bipolar, Stress, Anxiety, Trauma and abuse Languages: English
View listingDr. Robert Nolan, LMHC
Ref 15781
Steady, practical counseling for real-life struggles
Works with: Bipolar, Stress, Anxiety, Trauma and abuse Languages: English
View listingFaye Noyland, BACP
Ref 176481
Calm, practical counselling for everyday struggles
Works with: Bipolar, Stress, Anxiety, Relationship Languages: English
View listingCarson Gerber, LPC
Ref 27651
Compassionate practical therapy for everyday struggles
Works with: Bipolar, Stress, Anxiety, Trauma and abuse Languages: English
View listingKelley Sullivan, LCSW
Ref 526
Compassionate, practical therapy for real life struggles
Works with: Bipolar, Stress, Anxiety, Relationship Languages: English, Spanish
View listingDr. Robert Hunt, LPC
Ref 187307
Experienced therapist for life changes and emotion work
Works with: Bipolar, Stress, Anxiety, Addictions Languages: English
View listingPatrick Gribel, LMHC
Ref 348422
Therapist focused on depth and steady change
Works with: Bipolar, Stress, Anxiety, Addictions Languages: English, Portuguese
View listingSusan Sigl, LPC
Ref 82483
Experienced counselor focusing on practical support
Works with: Bipolar, Stress, Anxiety, Addictions Languages: English
View listingLisa Spears, LPC
Ref 101050
Hopeful, practical counseling for life
Works with: Bipolar, Stress, Anxiety, Relationship Languages: English
View listingJamie Finkelstein, LPC
Ref 16744
Compassionate counselor for practical change
Works with: Bipolar, Stress, Anxiety, LGBT Languages: English
View listingCarlisle Bergquist, LCMFT
Ref 194649
Gentle, experienced therapist focused on relationships
Works with: Bipolar, Relationship, Family Languages: English
View listingDanielle Turner, LCPC
Ref 43399
Practical, compassionate therapy for everyday challenges
Works with: Bipolar, Stress, Anxiety, Trauma and abuse Languages: English
View listingRani Sagar, BACP
Ref 180509
Gentle humanistic counselling for life changes
Works with: Bipolar, Relationship, Trauma and abuse Languages: English
View listingDanielle Morgan, BACP
Ref 144635
Compassionate listener who helps people move forward
Works with: Bipolar, Stress, Anxiety, Trauma and abuse Languages: English
View listingNina Pavitt , BACP
Ref 123931
Supportive person-centred counsellor
Works with: Bipolar, Stress, Anxiety, Trauma and abuse Languages: English
View listingLisa Fairclough, BACP
Ref 160254
Practical, values-focused support for change
Works with: Bipolar, Stress, Anxiety, Relationship Languages: English
View listingFarah Southwell, LPC
Ref 203059
Practical, experienced therapist for life’s hard moments
Works with: Bipolar, Stress, Anxiety, Relationship Languages: English, Haitian Creole
View listingStephony Mark, LPC
Ref 101941
Client-centered care with practical tools
Works with: Bipolar, Stress, Anxiety, Relationship Languages: English
View listingMore about bipolar
Understanding bipolar disorder and how it can affect you
What bipolar typically looks like
Bipolar is a mood condition characterized by shifts in mood, energy and activity levels that can affect your ability to function day to day. Some people experience periods of elevated mood or high energy that may include increased activity, faster thoughts or reduced need for sleep. Others experience low mood, slowed thinking and low energy that can make routine tasks feel overwhelming. These mood periods can vary in intensity and duration from person to person, and they may change across weeks, months or years.
The condition often affects relationships, work or school performance and overall quality of life. You might notice changes in sleep patterns, appetite, concentration or impulsive decision-making during mood shifts. It is common for people to describe feeling like they are not themselves during these periods, and that can create confusion and emotional strain for both you and those close to you. Understanding the typical patterns of your own moods can be an important first step toward managing symptoms and finding helpful strategies.
Signs you might benefit from therapy for bipolar
When therapy can be useful
You may consider therapy if mood swings are causing distress, interfering with relationships or making it hard to meet work or family responsibilities. Therapy can be helpful when you notice recurring patterns of elevated or depressed mood that are hard to predict or when episodes feel more intense than you can manage on your own. You might seek support if sleep disruption, reckless spending, risky behavior or severe low mood are becoming frequent issues, or if mood changes are accompanied by trouble concentrating, increased irritability or social withdrawal.
Therapy is also often sought when you want to better understand triggers, develop practical skills to reduce the impact of mood shifts, and create routines that support stability. If you find yourself cycling between periods of high energy and low mood and it affects your sense of safety or wellbeing, reaching out to a mental health professional can help you put a plan in place. If you are experiencing thoughts of harming yourself, please contact local emergency services or a crisis hotline right away.
What to expect in therapy sessions focused on bipolar
Initial sessions and assessment
Your early sessions will typically focus on learning about your history, current concerns and how mood changes show up in your life. A therapist will ask about the patterns of highs and lows, triggers you have noticed, your support network and any current strategies you use to cope. You can expect discussions about sleep, routine, medication history if applicable and any previous treatments. The goal of these early conversations is to form a collaborative plan that fits your priorities and daily life.
Ongoing work and goals
As you continue in therapy, sessions often include mood tracking, goal-setting and skill building tailored to the issues you identify. You may work on improving sleep and daily rhythms, recognizing early warning signs, managing stress and learning techniques to cope with intense emotions. Therapy frequently integrates education about mood patterns so you can better predict and respond to shifts. Some people also involve family members or partners in sessions to improve communication and create a shared plan for crisis points. Over time, therapy aims to increase your sense of control over mood swings, reduce impairment and support recovery-oriented goals you set with your therapist.
Common therapeutic approaches used for bipolar
Talk therapies and structured approaches
Therapists often combine several approaches to address different aspects of bipolar. You may find therapists who list cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy or interpersonal approaches among their approaches. Therapists who list cognitive behavioral therapy among their approaches may help you identify thinking patterns that influence mood and teach practical strategies for managing symptoms. Therapists who list interpersonal or social rhythm approaches among their approaches often focus on stabilizing daily routines, sleep and social rhythms because consistent patterns can support mood regulation.
Family and skills-based approaches
Some therapists who work with bipolar also incorporate family-focused methods and skills training to help you and your loved ones develop clearer communication and relapse prevention plans. Therapists who list family-focused approaches among their approaches may work with you to map triggers, create action plans for early warning signs and strengthen support systems. Mindfulness practices and behavioral strategies listed by some clinicians can help you increase awareness of mood shifts and respond in ways that reduce harm. If you take medication as part of your treatment, therapists frequently coordinate with prescribing clinicians to align therapy goals with medication management, always within the limits of their role.
How online therapy works for bipolar and tips for choosing a therapist
How online therapy is delivered
Online therapy typically offers sessions by video, phone or messaging, which can make it easier to fit care into a busy schedule or access clinicians who practice in other areas. When you choose online sessions, expect an initial intake that mirrors in-person visits - gathering history, current concerns and immediate needs. Many clinicians use platforms that include features for text-based messaging, appointment reminders and session notes, and you can often combine remote sessions with in-person care if that suits you better. Online therapy can be especially helpful if travel, mobility or geography make in-person appointments difficult, but it still requires the same attention to boundaries, safety planning and communication with other care providers when needed.
Practical tips for choosing the right therapist
Start by thinking about what matters most to you - whether that is a focus on mood stabilization, family involvement, specific therapeutic approaches, cultural understanding or experience with comorbid issues like anxiety or substance use. Look for therapists whose profiles mention a focus on bipolar or mood disorders and note the approaches they list, such as cognitive behavioral methods, interpersonal approaches or skills training. Consider language needs, cultural competence and whether you prefer a clinician who emphasizes structure and homework or one who takes a more exploratory style.
It is reasonable to ask therapists about their experience working with bipolar and how they typically structure sessions related to mood episodes, medication coordination and crisis planning. You can also inquire about session format - whether they offer video, phone or messaging - and about fees and insurance policies so you have clarity on logistics. Reading therapist biographies and watching introductory videos when available can give you a sense of their style and whether you feel comfortable with them. Ultimately, choosing a therapist is a personal decision and it is okay to try a few conversations to find someone whose approach aligns with your goals.
Finding ongoing support and next steps
Building a plan that fits your life
Therapy for bipolar is often most effective when it is part of a broader plan that includes stable routines, monitoring of mood patterns and coordination with medical care when appropriate. You can work with a therapist to develop relapse prevention strategies, create a list of early warning signs and outline steps to take during different mood states. Building a practical toolbox of strategies - from sleep hygiene and activity scheduling to communication plans with loved ones - can make daily life more manageable.
Moving forward with confidence
When you begin to engage with therapy, give yourself time to find the right fit and build rapport with a clinician who understands your needs. Therapy is a collaborative process that adapts as your circumstances change. By clarifying your priorities, asking about approaches that resonate with you and choosing a therapist who communicates clearly about goals and methods, you can create a supportive path forward for managing bipolar and improving your overall wellbeing.