Elevated Mood States

I have extensive experience working with elevated mood states, sometimes referred to as mania or hypomania. I’m familiar with the major pharmacological approaches to treatment and have experience partnering with several local medication providers.

While managing the risks associated with up mood states is of primary importance when treating the challenges that come with cyclothymia, bipolar disorder, and manic depression, I’ve found that working successfully with patients with fluctuating mood often requires acceptance of and appreciation for the creativity and sense of freedom and connectedness that accompany euphoria. I’ve found myself able to understand a great deal about what is deeply important to my patients by listening closely to what comes up for them when they are in elevated mood states. 

When I work in therapy with folks who struggle with the more challenging aspects of mood fluctuation, I start by emphasizing behavioral approaches, including but not limited to those that address exposure to light and darkness, sleep, exercise, diet, and grounding and coping skills. An early behavioral focus on mood stabilization can help patients arrive at a place where I’m able to offer a more open-ended exploration of what’s stopping them from expressing more of themselves during euthymic states.