Bipolar disorder is a mood disorder characterized by cycles of depression and elevated or irritable mood (mania or hypomania). While medication is often part of bipolar disorder treatment, online therapy plays a critical role in long-term stability. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) helps individuals build emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and impulse control skills that support mood balance.

Navigating the intense mood swings of bipolar disorder can be challenging, and DBT is designed to be your ally in this journey. The core of DBT’s effectiveness lies in its emphasis on emotion regulation. It provides you with practical skills to identify, understand, and manage these intense fluctuations. Imagine DBT as your personalized toolkit, offering a range of techniques to help you stay in control during both the highs and lows of bipolar disorder.

During therapy sessions, you’ll work on recognizing patterns in your emotions, understanding your triggers, and learn specific strategies to regulate them. This might include mindfulness exercises to ground yourself in the present moment or distress tolerance techniques for times when emotions run high. By developing these skills, you gain a sense of mastery over your emotional experiences, allowing you to navigate the challenges that bipolar disorder presents more effectively.

DBT can be highly effective as part of bipolar disorder treatment, especially for managing intense emotions, impulsivity, and relationship stress. DBT focuses on practical coping tools you can use daily. Many clients benefit from combining DBT skills with medication management and structured online therapy support.

In DBT-informed bipolar disorder treatment, you’ll learn structured skills in four core areas: mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotional regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness. Online sessions focus on identifying mood triggers, tracking patterns, and applying DBT tools to reduce escalation. The goal is to increase stability and improve day-to-day functioning.

Yes. DBT skills can help you recognize early warning signs of mood shifts and respond more effectively. During depressive episodes, DBT supports behavioral activation and distress tolerance. During elevated moods, it helps manage impulsivity, improve decision-making, and maintain structure.

DBT recognizes the overwhelming nature of racing thoughts during manic episodes and introduces mindfulness-based practices to provide relief. Mindfulness is like a soothing balm for your mind. It encourages you to stay present and non-judgmentally observe those rapid thoughts without getting entangled in them. Through mindfulness exercises, you’ll learn to create a mental space that allows you to witness the thoughts without being carried away by their intensity. This newfound awareness becomes a powerful tool in managing the cognitive aspects of manic episodes.

DBT teaches you not to resist these thoughts but to acknowledge and let them pass without getting caught in their whirlwind. By incorporating mindfulness into your daily routine, you’ll find that you’re better equipped to cope with the cognitive challenges that accompany manic episodes.

No, Makin Wellness does not offer screening for bipolar disorder. Screening and diagnosis for bipolar disorder typically involve comprehensive evaluations by licensed professionals, such as psychiatrists or psychologists, using interviews, assessments, and sometimes medical tests to determine if you meet the criteria for bipolar disorder. For a formal diagnosis, we recommend consulting a psychiatrist or a psychologist who specializes in bipolar disorder.

No. If you’re experiencing significant mood swings, emotional intensity, or difficulty maintaining stability, online therapy can still help. A qualified clinician can assess your symptoms and determine whether bipolar disorder treatment or a DBT-focused approach is appropriate for you.

While medication is commonly recommended for bipolar disorder, online therapy remains essential for long-term management. DBT does not replace psychiatric care; instead, it strengthens coping skills and relapse prevention strategies. We collaborate with prescribing providers when medication support is part of your treatment plan.

We do not offer medication management services at Makin Wellness. If you’re struggling with bipolar disorder, our online therapy services provide support in managing symptoms, improving coping strategies, and enhancing overall mental health.

For medication management, we suggest contacting a psychiatrist or a primary care provider who can prescribe and monitor appropriate medications.

Our therapists are trained in evidence-based treatments for bipolar disorder, including DBT-informed approaches. Licensed clinicians and supervised prelicensed providers receive ongoing training and follow established clinical standards. Care is structured, ethical, and tailored to your individual needs.

We believe online counseling should feel clear and straightforward — including pricing. Our rates are transparent, so you know exactly what to expect before scheduling.

Effective March 1, 2026

Private pay rates:

• First session: $211.75
• Ongoing sessions: $181.50 per session

Insurance holders:

If you plan to use insurance, the listed rates are not necessarily what you will pay. Before your first appointment, our team will complete a benefits verification to determine your coverage details, including your estimated copay, coinsurance, or deductible responsibility. This helps you understand your expected costs in advance.

• First session: $192.50
• Ongoing sessions: $165 per session

Your first appointment allows time for a deeper assessment, understanding your goals, and creating a personalized plan with your therapist. Follow-up sessions focus on ongoing support, skill-building, and progress toward your goals.

Many clients find that online counseling is a valuable investment in their mental health, relationships, and overall well-being.

If you have questions about cost, insurance, or scheduling, our team is happy to help — you can request an appointment online or call us at (833)-274-heal.

The primary goals are mood stabilization, improved emotional regulation, reduced impulsive behaviors, and stronger relationship skills. DBT also supports relapse prevention planning and routine-building, which are key parts of bipolar disorder treatment. Online therapy focuses on practical tools you can apply outside of sessions.

Yes. Online therapy sessions are confidential and follow professional privacy and safety standards, with limited legal exceptions related to immediate risk. Your therapist will review confidentiality policies clearly before bipolar disorder treatment begins.

Yes, it’s common to feel hesitant about seeking bipolar disorder treatment. DBT-informed therapy provides structure and clear skills, which many clients find reassuring. You are never pressured to move faster than you’re ready for.