As someone living with a bipolar disorder, I realized that I couldn't heal alone and that I needed a team of professionals ofthe sanity to support me in my reinstatement.
Scientific studies also confirm that the bipolarity is best managed with the help of a team composed of a psychologist And of a psychiatrist.
It's important to note that the term “shrink” is a general term that encompasses various types of mental health professionals.
Les psychiatrists are in a position to prescribe medicines, while the therapists and psychologists offer a talk therapy.
However, many people choose to consult both a psychologist And a psychiatrist who work collaboratively to offer a complete treatment.
There is a great variety of mental health professionals available, with different specialties and approaches.
Whether you need therapy, of medicines or a combination of both, there are qualified professionals who can help you manage your bipolarity And to live a fulfilling life.
If you need help solving problems with sanity, emotional or relational, a therapist can help you.
Contrary to psychiatrists, the therapists do not have medical skills and cannot prescribe medicines.
But don't worry, they are experts at listening and communication, and are trained to help you find practical and sustainable solutions to manage your problems.
Psychiatrists, for their part, followed a medical education comprehensive to diagnose, treat, and prevent mental disorders, including the bipolarity.
They are also authorized to prescribe medicines to treat the symptoms of bipolarity, in addition to offering therapies and to work with other professionals in sanity to develop a treatment plan effective.
Les psychologists, for their part, are experts In the study of human behavior, mental processes, and social relationships.
They use scientific methods to assess patients and develop personalized treatment plans.
The profession of psychologist is regulated in France, which means that they must obtain a Master 2 and are subject to codes of ethics and regulations to ensure the confidentiality of patients and respect for professional standards.
In the end, each mental health professional Has unique skills to help you Managing your bipolarity.
In France, there are several options for finding a psychologist who is an expert in bipolarity. Some of the main options are:
As you know, there are a variety of options for following a psychotherapy.
It is a work that is done through the word, which involves the exploration of different currents of psychology, such as Behavioral and Cognitive Therapy (CBT), to help the people with bipolar disorders to manage their symptoms.
It is important to To be accompanied By a health professional to get a personalized help outside of your circle of friends and family.
It is possible to be reimbursed by your mutual insurance for psychotherapy sessions.
This support is essential to ensure the stability Of your mental health status.
Sessions generally last 45 minutes to 1 hour, and it is recommended that you consult at least once a month.
It is also possible to consult a psychologist online in addition to a psychiatrist, because the psychiatrists do not always have time for psychotherapy.
By creating a support team, you give yourself the best Chance of success in the management of your bipolar disorder, just like a top athlete.
Consulting a psychologist online can be an interesting option for maintaining a long-term follow-up relationship, no matter where you move.
It also allows you to maintain contact even during depressive phases or periods when you have difficulty moving around.
Of course, it is also possible to consult in person if you prefer, this will also depend on your personality.
In any case, it is important to find the option of psychotherapy that suits you best and to work closely collaboration With mental health professionals to get a complete and personalized care of your bipolar disorder.
HopeStage accompanies you throughout your career thanks to professionals selected for their expertise.
Where do you start to find a shrink?
To start your search, ask for a recommendation to your primary physician or to your friends or family.
You can also search online or ask in our bipolar discussion group.
Check these items when looking for a psychologist online:
Once you find a therapist, you need to understand if they are right for you.
Here are some questions to ask during your first appointment or in advance by phone.
When asking them, talk openly about your needs to make sure you have the same goals.
Experiment
Style/Approach
Availability
It's okay if you don't like your psychologist/therapist/psychiatrist and you want to change people.
Be truthful and outspoken when you tell your therapist that it's not working.
Try saying something like, “I don't think that's right for me...”
Don't leave your current therapist until you find a new one in order to limit the risks, as the treatment times can sometimes be long.
“Finding the right therapist depends mainly on your needs, so take the time to write your objectives.”
Finding a good therapist is only one step in your stabilizing.
It is thanks to the combination of factors that bipolar people succeed in managing their disorders.
It is also essential to collect factual data on your condition and for this, several applications exist in order to calculate your time of slumber and your physical activity.
With this information you can help your therapist understand you better.
Finding a shrink takes time for you to be able to establish a relationship of trust.
One last piece of advice: it is often recommended to give your therapist's contact details to a trusted friend in case of problems.
Here are some bonus tips to help you with your search:
If you are ready to take the next step, feel free to click here.