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Understanding Bipolar Disorder and How Therapy Can Help

What Does Being Bipolar Mean?

Bipolar is a mood condition that involves changes in mood, energy, and activity levels. These mood changes can range from periods of elevated energy and activity – often called mania or hypomania – to periods of low mood and low energy – often called depression. People living with bipolar may have different patterns of mood changes, and the condition can affect daily functioning, relationships, work, and sleep.

Therapy is one part of a broader approach to managing bipolar. As a directory, we help connect you with licensed therapists and mental health professionals who have experience working with mood disorders and teletherapy. Finding the right clinician – whether through online therapy or in-person services – can help you build skills and strategies to cope with mood changes and improve daily functioning.

Common Signs and Symptoms

Signs and symptoms of bipolar vary by person and by mood phase. If you are concerned about bipolar for yourself or a loved one, a licensed clinician can provide a professional evaluation. Common signs include:

• Manic or hypomanic signs – increased energy, decreased need for sleep, racing thoughts, impulsive behaviors, increased talkativeness, heightened goal-directed activity
• Depressive signs – persistent low mood, loss of interest in activities, fatigue, changes in appetite or sleep, difficulty concentrating, feelings of worthlessness
• Changes in daily routines – disrupted sleep or activity rhythms, trouble maintaining responsibilities

Not everyone experiences every symptom, and severity can vary. If you notice mood patterns that impact your safety or daily life, reach out to a clinician for an assessment and safety planning.

How Online Therapy Can Help with Bipolar

Online therapy – also called teletherapy or telehealth – provides access to licensed therapists through video, phone, or messaging. For people with bipolar, online therapy can support symptom management through evidence-based approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), psychoeducation, interpersonal and social rhythm therapy (IPSRT), and skills training for coping and relapse prevention.

Online therapy can help in several practical ways:

• Provide regular, accessible sessions that fit into your schedule and reduce barriers like travel time
• Offer continuity of care if you move or travel, making it easier to stay connected to a trusted clinician
• Facilitate collaboration with prescribers – many therapists coordinate care with psychiatrists or primary care providers when medication is part of treatment

While therapy is not a substitute for medical evaluation or medication when needed, it is often an important component of a comprehensive approach to managing bipolar.

Benefits of Online Therapy vs Traditional In-Person Sessions

Online therapy offers several advantages that can be particularly helpful for people managing bipolar:

• Convenience and flexibility – attend sessions from home or another private space, which can make it easier to maintain consistent care
• Broader access to specialists – connect with clinicians who have specific expertise in mood disorders even if they are not local
• Reduced stigma and increased privacy – some people find it easier to seek help when they can meet remotely
• Often faster appointment availability – many online clinicians offer evening or weekend slots

That said, in-person care may be preferable in certain situations – for example, if hands-on assessment is needed, or if someone is in a crisis that requires immediate, face-to-face support. Online therapy complements in-person options and can be chosen based on your needs, preferences, and safety considerations.

What to Expect in Online Therapy

When you begin online therapy, a clinician typically starts with an intake or assessment to understand your symptoms, history, goals, and safety needs. Expect conversations about mood patterns, sleep, routines, relationships, and any current treatment such as medication.

Practical aspects of online therapy include:

• Video or phone sessions – make sure you have a private space and a stable internet connection
• Session frequency – may start weekly and adjust based on progress and need
• Collaborative treatment planning – you and your therapist set goals and choose strategies to track progress
• Safety planning – clinicians will discuss what to do in a crisis and how to access emergency services if needed

Therapy techniques may include mood tracking, developing routines to stabilize sleep and activity, cognitive tools to manage unhelpful thinking patterns, and interpersonal strategies to improve relationships and daily functioning.

Finding the Right Therapist for Bipolar

Choosing a therapist is a personal decision. As a directory, we list licensed professionals and include information to help you compare options. When looking for a therapist for bipolar, consider these factors:

• Clinical experience with mood disorders and bipolar specifically
• Licensure and credentials – such as LCSW, LPC, LMFT, or psychologist
• Familiarity with teletherapy and comfort working remotely
• Approach and interventions – ask about CBT, IPSRT, psychoeducation, and relapse prevention
• Willingness to coordinate with prescribers if medication is part of your care

Questions to ask during a consultation may include:

• How much experience do you have treating bipolar?
• What therapeutic approaches do you use and why?
• How do you handle emergencies or safety concerns in teletherapy?
• Do you coordinate care with psychiatrists or primary care providers?

Taking the First Step

Taking the first step toward therapy can feel challenging, but you do not have to do it alone. Start by noting your main concerns, patterns you have noticed in your moods, and what you hope to change. Use the directory to filter therapists by experience, availability, and teletherapy options. Many clinicians offer a brief consultation so you can see if you feel comfortable working with them.

Prepare for your first session by thinking about recent mood patterns, sleep and activity changes, and any current supports or treatments. Make sure you have a private, quiet space for your video session and check your device and internet connection ahead of time.

Remember – asking for support is a strength. Online therapy can make it easier to get consistent care with a clinician who understands bipolar and can work with you to develop practical skills, routines, and a plan for managing mood changes. Use this directory to explore options and connect with a licensed therapist who fits your needs and preferences.

If you are in immediate danger or experiencing a medical emergency, contact local emergency services or a crisis line right away. Online therapists will provide guidance for safety planning, but emergency services are the appropriate resource for immediate risk.