The LodeStone Center provides a variety of types of therapy for treating Bipolar Disorder. A number of our clinicians specialize in work with children and treat childhood bipolar disorder. It is our goal to match you with a therapist that will best fit your needs and provide you with the best care possible. If you would like more information, or would like to request a first visit with a therapist, you can either fill out the contact form on this page and we will get in touch with you or you can also call us directly at 847-802-4058.
What is Bipolar Disorder?
Bipolar Disorder, is a disorder that includes major shifts in mood and behavior. There are 2 categories of the disorder: Bipolar I and Bipolar II. The first includes the symptoms of Mania, and may or may not include episodes of Depression. The second type includes recurrent bouts of Depression with episodes of Hypomania, which is a period of unusually elevated mood or irritability that lasts at least 4 days. The specific patterns of symptoms in Bipolar Disorder can be confusing, but all of them include shifts in mood and behavior that last at least 4-7 days (not a matter of hours), and include significant interference with your normal life, including in relationships and occupations. In children, these symptoms may be difficult to identify as they can be expressed in a variety of ways. Through careful assessment and behavioral notes, working as a team we can appropriately diagnose and guide treatment to best meet your child’s needs.
How is Bipolar Disorder Treated?
Bipolar Disorder is usually treated with a combination of medications and therapy. During severe episodes of Depression or Mania, more intensive treatment may be required such as hospitalization or intensive therapy programs. At The LodeStone Center, we tend to use Cognitive Behavior Therapy, or CBT when working with this disorder, and work to coordinate therapy with the medication decisions made by the patient’s medical doctor or psychiatrist. In young children, we incorporate these skills through play and other expressive therapies.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding therapy for Bipolar Disorder in children, please don’t hesitate to call and speak with one of our therapists. We are happy to answer questions, help look into your insurance benefits or explain how counseling might be beneficial to you. If you have questions, and would like to speak to one of our mental health professionals, contact us today.