PSYCHOTHERAPY SERVICES
BIPOLAR SPECTRUM DISORDERS
FIND SUPPORT AND START ON YOUR PATH TO RECOVERY
ARE YOU FEELING OUT OF
CONTROL WITH MOOD SWINGS?
Do you experience extreme highs and lows that make it difficult to maintain stability in your daily life? Are there times when you feel unstoppable — full of energy, ideas, and confidence — only to crash into overwhelming sadness, exhaustion, or hopelessness? Do these shifts leave you feeling out of control, struggling to maintain relationships, work, or a sense of balance?
Living with bipolar disorder can be exhausting, not just for you but for those around you. You may find yourself making impulsive decisions during manic episodes, only to later feel guilt or regret when the energy fades. Depression may drain your motivation, making even small tasks feel impossible. The unpredictability of these cycles can make it difficult to plan for the future, leaving you feeling isolated, misunderstood, or unsure of where to turn for help.
Stability and hope are possible. At Aspen Grove Wellness, we understand the complexities of bipolar disorder and are here to help you regain control. Therapy can provide a structured, supportive space to help you recognize patterns, manage mood swings, and develop strategies for maintaining stability. Whether you’re newly diagnosed or have been managing bipolar disorder for years, our compassionate, evidence-based approach can help you feel more balanced and in control of your life.
With the help of therapy, you can learn to manage mood swings, strengthen relationships, and build a life that feels stable, fulfilling, and aligned with your goals.
WHAT DOES A MANIC EPISODE FEEL LIKE?
Individuals with bipolar spectrum disorders will experience episodes of mania and/or hypomania. While the specific experiences many vary from person to person, mania and hypomania are mood states characterized by elevated, expansive, or irritable emotions and often include some of the following symptoms:
EMOTIONAL SYMPTOMS
During a manic or hypomanic episode, individuals often experience a surge of heightened emotions, including intense euphoria or irritability. They may feel unusually energetic, overconfident, or invincible, often leading to impulsive decisions and risky behavior. Emotional stability can become compromised, with mood swings occurring rapidly. This elevated state can also bring about a sense of agitation, racing thoughts, and an overwhelming desire to engage in numerous activities simultaneously, which can make it difficult to focus or complete tasks.
COGNITIVE SYMPTOMS
Cognitive symptoms often include racing thoughts and a rapid flow of ideas that can be difficult to control or organize. Individuals may experience an inflated sense of self-esteem or grandiosity, leading to unrealistic plans or goals. Attention and concentration can become fragmented, with a tendency to jump from one topic to another. This heightened cognitive activity can result in poor judgment and impulsive decisions, as well as an increased susceptibility to distraction and difficulty in completing tasks.
PHYSICAL SYMPTOMS
Physical symptoms often include increased energy levels and restlessness. Individuals may experience a decreased need for sleep, feeling rested despite only a few hours of sleep or no sleep at all. They might engage in hyperactive behaviors, such as talking rapidly, moving quickly, or undertaking multiple tasks simultaneously. This heightened physical activity can lead to fatigue and exhaustion as the episode progresses, even though the person initially feels unusually energetic.
BEHAVIORAL SYMPTOMS
During a manic or hypomanic episode, behavioral symptoms often include increased impulsivity and risk-taking activities. Individuals might engage in excessive spending, unrestrained social interactions, or dangerous behaviors without regard for potential consequences. They may also exhibit heightened restlessness, an increased drive to start new projects or ventures, and a tendency to interrupt others or dominate conversations. This behavior can be characterized by a notable decrease in self-control and an escalation in activities that can strain relationships and disrupt daily functioning.
TYPES OF BIPOLAR SPECTRUM DISORDERS
Bipolar I Disorder is a type of mood disorder characterized by the occurrence of at least one manic episode, which may be preceded or followed by hypomanic or depressive episodes. The manic episodes in Bipolar I Disorder are severe and can significantly impair daily functioning, often requiring hospitalization or leading to significant distress. This condition involves extreme mood swings, including periods of intense euphoria or irritability, high energy levels, and impaired judgment during manic phases that occur throughout the majority of the day nearly every day for at least seven days. Manic episodes are often followed by periods of deep depression that impact overall well-being.”
Bipolar II Disorder is characterized by recurring episodes of hypomania and depression. Unlike Bipolar I Disorder, individuals with Bipolar II experience hypomanic episodes, which typically last most of the day nearly every day for 4-7 days and are less severe than full manic episodes. While hypomania involves elevated mood and increased energy, it does not typically lead to severe functional impairment or require hospitalization. The depressive episodes in Bipolar II can be profoundly debilitating, affecting mood, motivation, and daily functioning.
Cyclothymic Disorder is a mood disorder characterized by chronic, fluctuating moods that include periods of hypomanic symptoms and mild depressive symptoms. These mood swings are less severe than those seen in Bipolar I or II Disorders but can still impact daily life and emotional well-being. Individuals with Cyclothymia experience ongoing mood shifts for at least two years, with symptoms that may not meet the criteria for full manic or depressive episodes.
It is important to note that the nuances of life are not always captured in a simple diagnosis. Only trained mental health professionals who have completed a comprehensive evaluation with a specific individual can assign a diagnosis. If you are experiencing symptoms that you believe could be consistent with bipolar spectrum disorders, it’s important to seek professional help to receive an accurate diagnosis and individualized treatment from a trained bipolar disorder therapist.
Emotional stability is within your grasp.
Bipolar spectrum disorders affect approximately 2-3% of the global population, encompassing a range of mood disturbances from severe manic episodes to milder hypomanic states. These conditions can significantly impact daily life, relationships, and overall well-being.
If you are experiencing symptoms such as extreme mood swings, heightened energy levels, or changes in behavior, it’s important to seek professional help. Reaching out to a trained bipolar disorder therapist can provide you with the support and treatment needed to manage your symptoms effectively and improve your quality of life. Don’t hesitate to take the first step towards wellness—help is available and recovery is possible!
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DON’T LET WORRY GET IN YOUR WAY
How do I know whether therapy will truly help or if it’s worth the time and effort? Research shows that therapy can be highly effective for treating bipolar spectrum disorders, improving overall quality of life and helping individuals manage their symptoms more effectively. Taking that first step by reaching out to one of our bipolar disorder therapists can lead to positive changes you may not have anticipated. Therapy for bipolar disorder can help you understand and manage these feelings, providing support tailored to your unique situation. Your feelings are valid, and you don’t have to face recovery alone.
I’m worried about the cost of therapy. We understand that the cost of therapy can be intimidating and a very realistic barrier to treatment for many people. This is why we, at Aspen Grove Wellness, are in network with most major commercial payers and have a radical commitment to helping you access your health insurance benefits. If you would like to know your specific benefits, we recommend that you call the Member Services number on the back of your insurance card.
What if I do not want to take prescription medication to manage my symptoms? Our trained bipolar disorder therapists specialize in a number of different evidence-based and client-centered treatment modalities. Our therapists are not prescribing providers and do not require that patients use medication. Therapy can be a standalone option or used in conjunction with medication, but the choice is ultimately yours. Our bipolar disorder therapists will work with you to explore what feels right for you, prioritizing your preferences and comfort.
HOW IT WORKS
TYPES OF THERAPY FOR BIPOLAR DISORDER:
Some of Our Bipolar Disorder Therapists’ Favorite Approaches
DIALECTICAL BEHAVIORAL THERAPY (DBT)
This type of therapy for bipolar disorder combines mindfulness, emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness skills to help manage intense mood swings and improve overall emotional stability. By learning to observe and accept their emotions without judgment, individuals can develop healthier coping strategies, reduce impulsive behaviors, and enhance their relationships. DBT’s structured approach offers practical tools for navigating the complexities of bipolar disorder and supports long-term emotional well-being.
COGNITIVE BEHAVIORAL THERAPY (CBT)
Is an evidence based type of therapy for bipolar disorder. CBT modifies negative thought patterns and behaviors that can exacerbate mood episodes. CBT helps individuals recognize and challenge distorted thinking, develop practical coping strategies, and manage stress more effectively. By focusing on the connection between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, CBT empowers individuals to better manage their symptoms, maintain stability, and enhance overall functioning. This structured approach provides valuable tools for coping with mood swings and preventing relapse.
ACCEPTANCE AND COMMUTMENT THERAPY (ACT)
Helps people accept their thoughts and feelings rather than struggling against them. ACT is a type of therapy for bipolar disorder that focuses on increasing psychological flexibility. Increased cognitive flexibility enables individuals to engage in meaningful activities aligned with their values despite the presence of mood fluctuations. By fostering mindfulness and acceptance, ACT helps manage emotional distress, reduce avoidance behaviors, and promote a more fulfilling life. This approach empowers individuals to cope with their symptoms constructively and improve their overall quality of life.
INSIGHT-ORIENTED (PSYCHODYNAMIC) THERAPY
Helps individuals with bipolar disorder by exploring the underlying emotional and psychological factors contributing to their mood episodes. It focuses on increasing self-awareness and understanding of one’s thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. By uncovering the root causes of mood fluctuations and gaining deeper insight into personal patterns and triggers, individuals can develop more effective coping strategies and make meaningful changes in their lives. This enhanced self-awareness supports better management of bipolar symptoms and fosters personal growth and emotional stability.