Therapy for Bipolar Disorder in Seattle

Therapy Also Available Across WA

Do you feel confused and overwhelmed by unpredictable mood episodes? I guide adults with bipolar disorder through both new diagnoses and long-term management so they can achieve stability and live fulfilling lives beyond their diagnosis.

Does Bipolar Disorder Feel Impossible to Understand and Manage?

Everything feels unpredictable. One day you're on top of the world, the next you can barely get out of bed. Maybe you're newly diagnosed and everything feels confusing and scary. Or perhaps you've had this diagnosis for years but haven't found the right therapist who truly understands what you're experiencing.

The impact of bipolar disorder touches every area of life:

  • Feeling like you can't trust your own thoughts and emotions during episodes

  • Worrying constantly about when the next mood swing will hit

  • Struggling to maintain relationships when your moods feel so unpredictable

  • Losing confidence in your ability to handle work, school, or daily responsibilities

You're not broken, and you're definitely not alone. With the right support and strategies, you can learn to recognize patterns, manage symptoms, and build the stable life you want through therapy for bipolar. My specialized training helps people just like you navigate these challenges successfully.

What is Bipolar Disorder?

Bipolar disorder is a mood disorder that causes significant shifts in mood, energy, and activity levels. These aren't just normal ups and downs - they're distinct episodes that can last days, weeks, or even months.

Many people live successfully with bipolar disorder when they have the right combination of therapy, medications, routine, and coping strategies. While bipolar disorder can present real challenges and limitations, having this diagnosis doesn't define you - and with the right support, you can learn to problem-solve through obstacles and find meaningful ways to pursue your goals.

Understanding Bipolar 1 vs Bipolar 2

Bipolar 1 Disorder

Bipolar 1 Disorder involves at least one full manic episode, which may or may not be followed by a depressive episode. Manic episodes are intense periods lasting at least one week and up to several months, while depressive episodes last at least 2 weeks and sometimes for several months.

Bipolar 2 Disorder

Bipolar 2 Disorder involves at least one hypomanic episode and at least one major depressive episode, but never a full manic episode. Hypomanic episodes are milder than mania - you might feel unusually energetic or productive, but can still function in daily life. Many people with Bipolar 2 struggle more with depression than hypomania.

Common Symptoms of Bipolar:

Manic episodes

Depressive episodes

Mixed episodes

Hypomania

Rapid cycling

elevated mood, increased energy, decreased need for sleep, racing thoughts, impulsive decisions

persistent sadness, loss of interest, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, feelings of worthlessness

experiencing both manic and depressive symptoms simultaneously

milder manic symptoms that may seem manageable but still impact functioning

four or more mood episodes within a year

Why Choose Michelle Solomon for Bipolar Therapy?

I use an eclectic approach that incorporates elements of Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy (IPSRT), a specialized approach designed specifically for bipolar disorder that focuses on how your mood, interpersonal events, and routine are intertwined and impact one another. I tailor these evidence-based techniques to each individual's unique needs and circumstances. My background combines social work and recreation therapy, giving me a unique perspective on both clinical treatment and practical wellness strategies. During my years working in inpatient hospital settings, I gained extensive experience supporting individuals through manic and depressive episodes. Colleagues in the area refer clients to me for specialized bipolar support.

I understand that bipolar disorder isn't one-size-fits-all. Every person experiences different triggers, warning signs, and symptoms. Together, we'll create personalized strategies for recognizing your specific patterns, preventing episodes from getting worse, and building daily routines that support mood stability. You deserve a therapist who won't generalize your experience or make you feel like just another diagnosis.

Benefits of Bipolar Therapy

Episode Prevention

Learn to recognize your unique warning signs and implement strategies before mood episodes escalate.

Stable Routines

Develop daily patterns and sleep schedules that support consistent mood regulation and energy levels.

Identity Beyond Diagnosis

Rediscover your strengths and interests separate from bipolar disorder while managing symptoms effectively.

Don’t Let Bipolar Disorder Become Increasingly Difficult

Mood episodes can become more frequent and severe over time without the proper support. Relationships can suffer, career opportunities may be lost, and many people end up in crisis situations or hospitalizations that could have been prevented with early intervention. I don’t want this for you. I want to see you thrive in your life.

Here's what's possible with specialized bipolar therapy:

You can learn to anticipate and manage mood changes before they disrupt your life. Many of my clients develop such strong self-awareness that they catch warning signs early and adjust their routines to prevent full episodes. They maintain stable relationships, advance in their careers, and live rich, fulfilling lives where bipolar disorder is just one manageable aspect of who they are.

Get Expert Bipolar Treatment in Seattle

Your journey toward mood stability and a fulfilling life starts with getting the specialized support you deserve.

Our Therapy Process

Step 1: Assessment

  • We'll review your mood history, identify your specific triggers and warning signs, and discuss past treatment experiences to create your personalized plan.

Step 2: Personalized Approach

  • Using evidence-based techniques including IPSRT elements, we'll work on establishing consistent daily routines, sleep schedules, and social rhythms that support mood stability, tailored specifically to your lifestyle and needs.

Step 3: Implementation Support

  • We'll develop your toolkit for recognizing early warning signs, implementing intervention strategies, and working effectively with your treatment plan.

FAQs

  • Depending on severity of your symptoms, there are likely a lot of things you can do to help manage on your own. Some of these may include good sleep hygiene, a healthy routine, limiting life stressors and transitions, having a strong support system, and knowing your triggers and warning signs.

    While some people can manage on their own, these individuals are more likely people that have been living with bipolar for many years and have worked with mental health professionals to get to a place of stability.

    Managing on your own is not a solution for everyone, and some people may need medication management and/or talk therapy for ongoing support.

  • Yes, it’s absolutely possible to lead a stable life as someone with bipolar disorder. It does take time, energy, resources, and hard work into building your skills and tools to minimize the risk of possible manic, hypomanic, or depressive episodes.

    Those that are stable typically have a strong support system for accountability, stick to a healthy routine, and utilize coping skills when they are feeling triggered to help prevent their symptoms from worsening.

  • As someone that takes an eclectic and collaborative approach with meeting you where you are at, the following are types of therapy I recommend the most for treating bipolar disorder:

    • Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy (IPSRT), emphasizing the importance on a healthy routine and managing life stressors and transitions to help improve your mood

    • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to work on shifting and replacing negative thoughts

    • Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) to work on improving emotional regulation skills and mindfulness skills with staying in the present

  • While therapists that specialize in depression have a lot to offer in helping manage depressive symptoms, they likely do not have the skillset to help catch potential episodes, especially for mania or hypomania.

    A therapist specializing in bipolar disorder will be more thorough and pay attention to all your triggers and warning signs, know what to look for prior to an episode starting, and can give you specific tools you need to help maintain stability.

Here is a great video from NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness. Understand bipolar disorder - what it looks like, where it comes from, and how it can be treated