Support for Living with Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition characterized by significant shifts in mood, energy, and activity levels. These shifts typically include episodes of mania or hypomania—periods of elevated mood, increased energy, and sometimes impulsive behaviour—as well as episodes of depression, which may involve low mood, fatigue, and difficulty finding motivation. The pattern, intensity, and duration of these episodes vary from person to person, and there are different types of bipolar disorder based on these variations.

Bipolar disorder is a lifelong condition, but with appropriate support—often including both medication and therapy—many people live full, meaningful lives. Understanding your unique experience of bipolar disorder is an important step in building a care plan that works for you.

Therapy can be a valuable part of a comprehensive approach to managing bipolar disorder, typically working alongside medication prescribed by a psychiatrist or physician. While therapy does not replace medical care, it may help in several important ways: developing strategies for recognizing early signs of mood episodes, building coping skills for managing symptoms, processing the emotional impact of living with a chronic condition, and establishing routines that support stability.

Approaches like cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), interpersonal and social rhythm therapy (IPSRT), and psychoeducation are often used to support people with bipolar disorder. A therapist can also provide a consistent, supportive space to explore challenges, celebrate progress, and adjust strategies as your needs evolve.

Anyone living with bipolar disorder—whether newly diagnosed or managing the condition for years—may benefit from therapy. You might seek support during a particularly difficult period, after a hospitalization, or simply as part of ongoing self-care. Family members and partners sometimes seek therapy as well, to better understand the condition and learn how to offer support.

There's no single "right" time to start therapy. Some people find it helpful during stable periods to build skills proactively, while others reach out when facing specific challenges. Whatever your situation, seeking support is a meaningful step toward caring for yourself.

Finding a therapist with experience in bipolar disorder can take some patience, as it's a specialized area of practice. On First Session, you can search by focus area and watch therapist intro videos to get a sense of whether their approach feels right for you. Many therapists offer a free consultation, which gives you a chance to ask about their experience with mood disorders and bipolar disorder specifically.

If you don't immediately find someone who lists bipolar disorder as a specialty, consider broadening your search to include therapists who work with mood disorders, depression, or anxiety—there's often significant overlap in the skills and approaches used. The most important factor is finding someone you feel comfortable with and who is willing to collaborate with your broader treatment team.

Yes—if you're having difficulty finding a therapist who specifically focuses on bipolar disorder, exploring related areas may help you connect with support sooner. Therapists who work with mood disorders, depression, anxiety, or emotional regulation often use approaches that are relevant to the challenges of living with bipolar disorder.

You might also consider therapists who specialize in stress management, life transitions, or building healthy routines, as these skills can complement your broader care plan. Remember that therapy is just one part of managing bipolar disorder—maintaining communication with your prescribing physician or psychiatrist remains essential.

First Session makes it easier to find a therapist in Canada by letting you watch intro videos before booking. This helps you get a sense of each therapist's personality and approach, so you can feel more confident reaching out. Many therapists on the platform offer a free consultation to discuss your needs before committing to ongoing sessions.

All therapists on First Session have their credentials verified during onboarding, and you can filter by location, availability, and focus area. If you're curious about how much therapy costs, you'll find that information on each therapist's profile. While our network of therapists experienced with bipolar disorder is growing, you can also explore related focus areas to find compassionate support that meets your needs.