Learn about bipolar disorder
Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition that describes a category of mood disorders. Individuals with bipolar disorder go back and forth between periods of a very good mood (mania), irritable mood and depression. These ‘mood swings’ can be very quick, but will vary in how severe or how long they last for each person. Bipolar disorder affects men and women equally and usually starts between the ages of 15 – 25.
There are two types of bipolar disorder:
1) Bipolar I Disorder: characterised by at least one manic episode and periods of major depression.
2) Bipolar II Disorder: characterised by experience periods of high energy levels and impulsiveness that are not as extreme as mania (called hypomania), and episodes of depression.
Mania refers to abnormally elevated mood and energy, which can sometimes be triggered by life changes, medications, lack of sleep or recreational drug use. If you have experienced mania you may remember being reckless, easily agitated, and experiencing an extreme increase in energy and self-esteem. You may have experienced racing thoughts and may have felt energised to do everything at once. You may have also been more likely to take risks and and felt you could stay awake for long periods without sleep.
The depressed phase of both types of bipolar disorder include the following symptoms:
Daily low mood or sadness
Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions
Eating problems; loss of appetite or overeating
Lack of energy
Feeling worthless, hopeless, or guilty
Loss of pleasure in activities once enjoyed
Loss of self-esteem
Problems with sleep or excessive sleeping
Thoughts of death and suicide
If you think you are experiencing symptoms of Bipolar Disorder, or you have previously been diagnosed and are struggling to cope, it is crucial to seek professional help. Treatment for bipolar disorder can often involve medication, however your someone.health psychologist can assist individuals with bipolar disorder in various other ways including:
Providing clarity around the diagnosis and education on the various treatment options
Facilitate goal setting and formulate plans to promote a stable routine
Engage social support networks
Assist with identifying meaningful and pleasurable activities
Promote positive psychology principles, including resilience, optimism and motivation
Bipolar Disorder Psychologists
Meet the someone.health psychologists currently available to see new clients for counselling on bipolar disorder
Kathie McDonald
Kathie enjoys helping a broad range of people aged 16 years and over, and has a keen interest in helping people adjust to various life transitions such as changes in work, relationships, and parenthood. Kathie also has extensive experience in helping women work through issues related to sexual intimacy. Kathie uses evidence-based treatments including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance...
View ProfileTrisha Nowland
Trisha has experience working with a diverse range of clients including children, community from different cultural backgrounds, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community, and LGBT+ community.
View ProfileBec Hill
Hi! I'm looking forward to supporting you on your journey in working towards your goals, wherever you want to go. I aim to provide a safe space to talk about difficult things and value working with a bit of humour. Sometimes it helps bring some spark of joy back to the day to day. It can add meaning when it...
View ProfileMichiel Gonzales
I have learned that deep and lasting change is possible, that long-term issues can be resolved, and people can be free of emotional pain they carry by making sense of difficult experiences together, both past and present, and moving towards a place of self-understanding. Michiel works with adults and adolescents using an integrative approach which is based on empathy and...
View ProfileRachel Crossley
Rachel only works with children and young adults, up to the age of 25. She has over 20 years experience. Rachel has a keen interest in helping those who struggle with anxiety issues, including social anxiety, OCD and phobias. She has also worked extensively with young people who experience depression and other mood disorders, alongside other significant life events, such...
View ProfileWinifred Asare-Doku
Winifred has a keen interest in working with people experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, work-related mental health problems, perfectionism, procrastination, low self esteem and interpersonal difficulties. She focuses on being empathetic and supports clients on their journey. Winifred believes in creating a comfortable and safe environment where you feel you can talk openly about any issue.
View ProfileManya Scheftsik
Manya is experienced in helping people change behaviours that form part of a chronic condition whether physical or psychological. These changes include becoming more physically active and fit; pain management; feeling in control of your eating; the moderate consumption of alcohol; and cessation of smoking & problem gambling. She also has extensive experience helping people exit a substance abuse lifestyle.
View ProfileJeanette McLean
Jeanette has 27 years of experience as a psychologist. She has worked in private practice, as an Employee Assistance Provider (both internal and external) and as a teacher of counselling in a private counselling college. Jeanette has gained a lot of expertise working in many areas of psychopathology over the years and continues to enjoy ongoing professional development, offering a...
View ProfileLeah Hague
Hi, I’m Leah, a wholistic psychologist specialising in creating a positive outlook and cultivating whole body and mind wellbeing. I will explore and unpack your history with you to the extent that it affects your current functioning and collaborate with you to forge the path forwards toward a happier, healthier, and more fulfilling life of meaning and purpose.
View ProfileJessie Bendavid
Jessie has expertise with the psychological impact of perinatal loss, the topic of her Ph.D. She has worked with adults experiencing mood disorders, personality disorders, procrastination, anxiety and grief. Jessie offers a supportive, non-judgmental and accepting environment for her clients to feel safe so that they can openly discuss the issues that they would like to change.
View ProfileRosemary Lindsay
Rosemary welcomes clients concerned with personal issues such as anger, stress, anxiety, and depression, self-esteem, phobias, adjustment, behavioural change, eating disorders, smoking cessation, grief and loss, and relationships. She also welcomes clients with workplace issues such as career development, motivation, performance, and interpersonal conflict. Rosemary only provides video consultations.
View ProfileMichelle Scott
Michelle enjoys helping people to deal with life challenges and developmental problems to optimise psychological well-being. Her approach is to work together with clients to process feelings and to develop self insight and understanding. This aims to alleviate distress as well as to provide different ways of thinking, being and relating to the self and others.
View ProfileLakers Komaiya
I am a clinical psychologist with experience working with adolescents and adults. I aim to provide a safe, non-judgemental space where we can collaboratively explore the challenges you are currently facing; identify and work on the goals you want to achieve in therapy.
View ProfileLee-Anne Organ
I believe all humans share the experience of suffering and that it can be helpful to seek out professional help when this suffering becomes overwhelming. I think every person will benefit from different experiences in therapy and that its really important to work with someone who sees you as a person who is unique.
View ProfileBruce Wilson
I am committed to working with clients through a collaborative client-centered approach. I view acceptance and a non-judgmental interaction as critical components to the client-therapist relationship. I believe in focusing on strengths and self-observation skills as the keys to client change, growth, and development. I look forward to the opportunity of working with clients who are seeking to move forward...
View ProfileAgnes Szollos (Agi)
My combined professional and life experiences make me highly aware of the types of difficulties encountered by people from all walks of life and the impact on their and others’ lives these obstacles to wellbeing can have. My efforts and professional skill are dedicated toward helping to make a difference and to assist people in developing their greater potential
View ProfileDajana Bjelosevic
Dajana has 20 years experience as a Psychologist working with a diverse range of clients. She has extensive experience in substance abuse and addictions, depression, anxiety, stress management, adjustment disorder, PTSD and grief and loss.
View ProfileMelisa Holmes
Welcome and congratulations on taking this first step – it isn’t always an easy one! I can’t wait to meet you and hear your story. There isn’t a ‘one-size-fits-all’ in therapy, and the connection you have with your therapist is so important.
View ProfileChristine Craig
I’m excited to be able to share your journey and support you as you navigate through these changing times. I believe that we are all unique in how we respond to changes and difficulties that can arise in our lives varies accordingly. I believe that you are the maker of your own destiny and that I, as a psychologist, join...
View ProfileKristy Johnstone
Deciding to see a Psychologist is a big step, so congratulations for coming this far. Once you choose a therapist, stepping into a their virtual therapy room is the next big step, and for many people this can feel overwhelming. A big part of my job is to help you feel comfortable and safe. All you have to do is...
View ProfileAngela Stanojevic
Angela has an unwavering dedication to helping those in need overcome challenges in their lives. Her patience, curiosity and understanding allow her to build a therapeutic relationship with her clients. She is a warm and compassionate individual who successfully connects with people to feel heard and understood. Angela approaches therapy from a client-centred perspective, creating a safe and non-judgmental environment...
View ProfileSteve McDavitt
I’m a warm and engaging Clinical Psychologist who works collaboratively with my clients to develop evidence-based interventions to help clients reach their goals. While skilled in the treatment of mental health disorders, my approach to sessions goes beyond treating symptoms, to address broader goals including motivation, client-centred values, identity, meaning, and purpose. I use a range of evidence-based models including...
View ProfileWilliam Heaton
Will is a warm and compassionate Psychologist who is passionate about supporting individuals attain greater mental health and well-being. Therapeutic sessions are centered around helping individuals gain a deeper insight of themselves, their behavioural patterns and self-beliefs.
View ProfileKlaus War
I am a fully qualified hypnotherapist, treating all types of anxiety disorders, sleep disturbances, drug addictions, self-esteem issues, chronic pain, and IBS. I have 20 years of experience as a music teacher and taught children from age four to adults, aged 64 years. I also treat children and adolescents for peer relationship issues, school refusal, bullying, and poor school performance.
View ProfileMatthew Perrin
Matthew is trained in several evidence-based therapies, including; Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Motivational Interviewing. Matthew has a keen interest in working with people experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma related concerns, drug and alcohol misuse, and OCD.
View ProfileAmanda Kassis
I look forward to working with you collaboratively to create a comfortable and safe place for you to work through challenges you may be experiencing and create change that is meaningful for you. I have a keen interest in humanistic and strengths based therapeutic approaches which value and promote you as the expert in your own life and am passionate...
View ProfileAudrey Fletcher
It is very exciting when people take the first step to being proactive in their mental health and it makes me happy that mental health is becoming a topic we can talk freely about. I am excited to learn more about you and work together on how we can begin to create the life you want for yourself.
View ProfileYaari Caroline Self
I am looking forward to meeting many and varied clients to work with together to bring the very best in your life. My style is relaxed and friendly and I like to focus on the relationship we build together. I have practiced for over 30 years with all range of problems so I welcome all or any struggles in your...
View ProfileJulian Couzins
Julian's professional style is a person-to-person clinical practice focusing on individual needs. He works in a natural and holistic style. Your personal preferences are key to the therapy that you receive. Julian delivers therapy that considers your being in the world so that you can gain positive personal relationships and satisfying personal interactions.
View ProfileSarah Coleman
I like to take a unique approach, tailoring strategies around what works best for you. Whether you are comfortable with talk therapy or taking a more creative approach, I can be flexible in my therapeutic style. I look forward to getting to you know as a person so we can work together creating a better life for you. I am...
View ProfileMelissa Sykes
Welcome and hello to you, I am looking forward to understanding who you are as an individual. I am hopeful that through our time together we can put in place some steps and strategies to assist you in achieving the outcomes you desire.
View ProfileBilyana Riley
Bilyana's 20 years’ experience is vast, having started my career in nursing before embarking on study to become a Clinical Psychologist. She sees people presenting with a broad spectrum of presentations, including trauma, depressive and anxiety based disorders, workplace bullying, phobias, relationship issues, stress disorders, schizophrenia, self-harm, suicidal behaviour, personality disorders, grief and relationship issues.
View ProfileSamiul Hossain
My main goal as a psychologist is to help people to re-discover their inner strengths. People are often very aware of their strengths and difficulties, but when things go south, they may need a little nudge from someone who is not their family or friends. I try to nudge and change in people’s perspective by pointing out other side of...
View ProfileLouis van der Bank
Louis has experience working with adults and young people aged 16+. Louis has a keen interest in working with people experiencing anxiety, depression, grief and bereavement, trauma and PTSD, bipolar disorder, dealing with anger, stress management, drug and alcohol issues, and managing health and lifestyle.
View ProfileSarah Krueger
Sarah uses a person-centred, strength-based approach, working in collaboration with clients to reach their therapeutic goals. Sarah is highly focused on the therapeutic relationship using a calm and relaxed manner, positive communication strategies, empathy, and understanding during therapy sessions.
View ProfileMartin Pearce
Martin is best known for his humour and pragmatism. Martin has experience working with a diverse range of clients, including children, adolescents, adults and families. Martin has spent recent years working in a mental health clinic for people living with addictions, trauma and mood disorders.
View ProfileJenny Drury
Jenny has been a registered Psychologist since 2005. Jenny’s key areas of interest are stress and health management, mood and anxiety disorders, parenting, managing life transitions, executive functioning and neurodevelopmental disorders, such as autism spectrum disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.
View ProfileRosara Squirchuk
Rosara has a keen interest in working with children, adolescents and adults who are experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma including PTSD and adjustment disorder, OCD, bipolar disorder, gambling and other addictive behaviours, alcohol misuse, work/personal stress and domestic violence survivors.
View ProfileAriana Kenny
Congratulations in taking the next step to tackling whatever it is that brought you here. I have enjoyed 20 years as a Psychologist working in a number of areas, and the one thing that ties all the people I work with is the desire for more in their lives - because they deserve more. In a judgement free space we...
View ProfileSimon Coyle
Simon is a qualified primary school teacher as well as a registered psychologist. Simon has a keen interest in working with people experiencing anxiety, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, post traumatic stress disorder and behaviour and emotional disorders in children. He has a relaxed, easy going nature and likes to provide people with the skills to manage life's challenges.
View ProfileMartha Weinmann
I have a passion for making a difference in people’s lives by increasing their psychological flexibility to become equipped with skills to live a more valued life despite the challenges. I am experienced in providing successful therapy grounded in empathy, genuineness and respect, I assists individuals across the lifespan referred from local stakeholders, mental health clinicians and GPs.
View ProfileEmine Brandstaetter
You can not change the waves but you can learn to surf them. I really like that saying because it emphasizes that although you might not be able to control certain situations, you can still control your reaction and response to it. You might be surprised how small changes in our behaviours or our perspectives can have a great impact...
View ProfileWendy Devine
Hi! I’m Wendy. I’m a dedicated psychologist who loves working with adult clients wishing to improve their mental health. I have been working in psychology since 2012. I take a client centred approach, and work with a range of evidence-based approaches individually tailored to suit to your preference and needs. I have lived most of my life in remote, rural...
View ProfileMelissa Boulind
Melissa has extensive experience in working with teen conflicts including peer conflicts, relationships, exam stress and fitting in. In addition to that she has an interest in PTSD and trauma, poor health, covid-related adjustment and loss, HIV and cancer. Melissa can provide support for LBGTQ conflicts including coming out.
View ProfileJames Minson
James' approach to mental health is about mind-body integration and looking at the “whole person”. Mental health influences how we feel, think and move, how we communicate and relate to the world, and can seriously impact our physical health. James will hep make sense of how this all fits together, to explore unhelpful thoughts and behaviour, and identify different options.
View ProfileGeoff Pearce
“First I’ll listen, then I’ll help” Hello, I am Dr Geoff Pearce, a Performance and Positivity Psychologist and have 30 years’ experience. I work with Performance and Positivity in adults. ‘Performance’ refers to how well people do the things that are important to them
View ProfileIoanna Culleton
Ioanna has over 30 years of experience working with a diverse range of clients including adolescents, adults and seniors in both rural and urban settings. Ioanna is keen to work with clients who experience anxiety and depression, low self esteem, family and/or relationship conflicts, amongst other areas or simply to be a sounding board.
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