Bipolar
Bipolar disorder, also known as bipolar affective disorder, manic-depressive disorder, or manic depression, is a serious illness that causes changes in mood, energy, and the ability to function. People with this disorder experience periods of a frenzied mood known as mania or manic episodes. The manic episodes can vary immensely in their level of seriousness and can range from feeling energetic, excitable, and highly productive to erratic and impulsive behavior with a distorted view of reality. Many people with bipolar disorder also experience periods of depression, but some do not. Manic and depressive episodes can last from a few days to months. Only about 4% of the population is bipolar and genetics contribute to an individual’s likelihood of developing the disorder. There is no simple test to confirm bipolar disorder and the diagnosis is often a difficult one, even for mental health professionals.
Local experts in Bipolar
Sam Wilson
Licensed Clinical Social Worker
LCSW, LCSW-C
Bipolar disorder is often a lifelong challenge, but it can be managed successfully, and it does not have to be a barrier to happiness or success. Outside of medication management there is a great deal that the individual can do to institute a healthy routine, monitor symptoms, and compensate for temporary impairments. I can help.
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Michelle Sorensen (she/her)
Student Counselor
CMHCI
I work with individuals living with bipolar disorder and understand the profound impact it can have on identity, relationships, and daily life. My understanding is informed by both clinical training and personal experience within my own family. I approach this work with compassion and without judgment, helping clients build self-awareness, strengthen coping and support systems, and move toward greater stability, resilience, and hope.
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Amber Bishop (She/Her)
Licensed Professional Counselor
I specialize in helping adults navigate Bipolar I and II through evidence-based, trauma-informed care. Utilizing Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), CBT, and somatic techniques, I help clients recognize early mood triggers, regulate intense emotional shifts, and build sustainable daily routines. Working collaboratively alongside your medical team, I focus on stabilizing symptoms, preventing relapse, and restoring a sense of control and balance in your life.
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Karen Albert (she/her)
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
PMHNP
Living with bipolar disorder can feel like riding emotional waves—periods of high energy, impulsivity, or restlessness, followed by stretches of deep fatigue or disconnection. These shifts can be confusing, exhausting, and disruptive to your daily life. In our work together, we’ll explore what you’ve been experiencing and discuss treatment options that support stability and well-being. I offer thoughtful, collaborative medication management and coordinate care with therapists when helpful.
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Gil Gutierrez (He/Him)
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
PMHNP-BC
Managing bipolar disorder requires a deep clinical "toolbox." I combine foundational, "old school" psychopharmacological knowledge with modern insights, often repurposing established medications in innovative ways. This allows us to target stability effectively while being highly protective of your long-term health and daily energy.
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Grace Silvia, LCSW (she/her)
Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Deep lows and intense highs can wreck havoc on your life. But they can also be gifts of exquisite sensitivity, a response to trauma, or/and a spiritual awakening. My biggest teachers are friends, clients and colleagues who have these experiences, and have found ways to live well and joyously. I would be honored to share what I am learning and learn with you on this journey.
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Laura Peterson
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I specialize in providing compassionate, individualized care for patients living with bipolar disorder. I work closely with my patients to monitor symptoms, manage triggers, and develop coping strategies that promote stability and resilience. By integrating psychoeducation, cognitive-behavioral techniques, and ongoing monitoring, I aim to help patients achieve a balanced mood, improved daily functioning, and a higher quality of life. My goal is to build a tr
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Erik Lee (he/him)
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
PMHNP-BC
I provide diagnostic evaluations and medication management for adults with bipolar disorder, or who suspect they may have bipolar disorder.
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Jeremy Jones (They/them)
Licensed Professional Counselor
LPC, CADC-II, BC-TMH
I have extensive work in treating individuals who have recently been diagnosed with this disorder in understanding what the symptoms are, and how to best manage them in tandem with medications and therapy.
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Colleen Burke-Sivers, LPC (She/her)
Licensed Professional Counselor
Bipolar disorder is such a difficult, confusing, and isolating illness. Those who suffer from it feel miserably depressed, alternating with boundless energy and ideas, irritability and impulsiveness. At times, you may feel ecstatic and other times, you have no idea why you ever felt that way. I help people make sense of their moods, swings, frantic thoughts, and unravel the mess of symptoms.
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