Bipolar Disorder Therapy and Treatment

Dr. Sandra Smith-Hanen and the team at River Lake Clinic will work with you to help with bipolar disorder therapy and treatment.

Bipolar disorder is a chronic mental illness that causes dramatic shifts in a person’s mood, energy and ability to think clearly. We work with people who suffer from bipolar. Common signs include extreme high and extreme low moods. If you or a loved one is experiencing “mood swings”, it is important to seek help. If left untreated, the symptoms usually worsen. However, with psychological therapy and a good treatment plan, many people can better deal with the negative effects of this condition.

Vulnerable traumatised stress victim woman with bipolar disorder

Signs & Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder

  • Manic
  • Hypomania
  • Extreme high mood and extreme low moods
  • Hallucinations
  • Delusions
  • Feeling of hopelessness
  • Feeling of helplessness
  • Inability to perform normal tasks
  • unable to get out of bed
  • Feeling overwhelmed
  • Obsessed with feelings of loss
  • Feeling of personal failure
  • Feeling of guilt
  • Thoughts of suicide

Possible Causes

  • Genetics
  • Stress
  • Brain structure

Bipolar Disorder Treatment & Support

To diagnose bipolar disorder, it is important for a medical doctor to perform a full consultation and physical examination. The consultation may include an interview and lab testing. Bipolar disorder cannot be specifically detected through blood work. Instead, lab testing is often used to rule out other illnesses or conditions that may cause similar symptoms, such as hyperthyroidism.

After testing is completed and other conditions are ruled out, working with a psychologist can help you develop a treatment plan that improves your overall quality of life. Bipolar disorder therapy can help patients better manage mood swings, emotional changes, and daily challenges associated with the condition.

Let us assist you. Dr. Sandra Smith-Hanen provides a thorough intake process and a practical treatment plan for you or a loved one.

Contact us today for bipolar disorder therapy and treatment services. We proudly serve patients throughout Minneapolis, St. Paul, and surrounding Twin Cities communities.