Therapy for Bipolar Disorder & Depression

Individual Therapy

1-on-1 sessions utilizing research-supported psychotherapies to improve your mood, functioning, and quality of life. We will draw upon elements of cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), psychoeducation, and social rhythm therapy to help you achieve your therapy goals. We can use these same treaments to help you with co-occuring disorders, such as anxiety and insomnia.

Family Therapy

Family-focused therapy for bipolar disorder (FFT) can help you and your family work together to better understand and manage mood disorders. We will use psycheducation, communication training, and problem-solving skills to decrease conflict and stress, and increase collaboration between, and support for, all members of the family.

A weekly on-line therapy group for adults with bipolar disorder. This group will help you build skills and receive support from others who have similar experiences. Each month we focus on a specific skill drawn from CBT or ACT. Members support each other in using the skills, and have time each session to share current challenges and triumphs. All group members are diagnosed with bipolar I, bipolar II, or cyclothymia.

Group Therapy

2 people, partially shown, sitting across from eachother and speaking intently

Open laptop computer showing 10 people around perimeter and the words "Online Therapy" in center

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Frequently Asked Questions

How often will we meet?

For individual and family therapy, I suggest weekly sessions to start. We may then decrease our meeting frequency to every 2 weeks to give you more time to work on things between therapy sessions. Once you've met your treatment goals, you may choose to meet every 1-3 months for support in maintaining your improvements.

Do you work with children and teens?

I generally work only with adults (ages 18+). I will sometimes see older adolescents in FFT, or for insomnia.

How can I schedule an appointment?

I do all of my own scheduling. I encourage you to call me (720/252-0611) so we can talk for a few minutes to see if we think we'll be a good fit.

Do you train professionals who want to gain expertise in treating mood disorders?

Yes! I love training therapists at all levels -- pre-doctoral practicum students, post-doctoral candidates for licensure, and licensed clinicians seeking consultation. I have provided workshops on behavioral treatments for bipolar disorder in various settings, and would be happy to tailor something to your organization's needs.

How long will treatment last?

The length of treatment varies greatly depending on a person's goals and how big the gap is between where they are and where they want to be. Most research trials of CBT for depression have used a 12-16 week protocol. Psychotherapy studies for bipolar disorder are often about 6 months long. However, these studies generally excluded people with co-occuring disorders (like anxiety, substance use) and those who are suicidal. Many of my patients with mood disorders elect to stay in treatment for a year or longer.

How do you educate the public about mood disorders?

I work as a consultant for the Colorado Bipolar Education Project (CoBE). We provide a free, virtual, 5-session educational series each spring and fall. We aim to educate individuals with bipolar disorder, and the family, friends, and mental health professionals who support them. I am also available to give talks sponsored by local community organizations.

How can I join the bipolar disorder group?

First read this document. If the logistics (e.g., meeting time, cost) work for you, and you want to schedule a screening interview (or be added to the wait list if the group is full), please call me at 720/252-0611.

Are you accepting new patients?

My availability is constantly in flux! When I am not accepting new patients, I will be happy to help you find someone who is. I currently have two postdoctoral therapists working under my supervision, and I will connect you with one of them if you want me to be involved in your care when I cannot provide it directly.