Bipolar Wellness

Family and Individual Counseling

Supporting you and your family through a Bipolar Diagnosis

When treatment includes your entire support system, you can better manage the symptoms of your illness, leading to a better quality of life for you and those around you.

How We Work

We put education and planning at the centre of all of our interactions. When you understand your illness, you are better equipped to manage it. Together, we will formulate a treatment plan that includes:

Psychoeducation - Learning About Bipolar

Knowledge is power. Psychoeducation offers you a deep understanding of bipolar disorder, its triggers, and management strategies. This knowledge forms the foundation for informed decisions and a more confident, proactive approach to your well-being.

Identifying Warnings Signs and Triggers

We’ll collaborate to pinpoint and identify patterns and events that may trigger an episode. We will look at recognizing early symptoms (lack of sleep, racing thoughts, etc.) and develop an early intervention plan.

We will find ways to include your support network in the plan. Ultimately, we aim to reduce stress for the individual and their family. Doing this has been shown to lessen the frequency and severity of mood episodes.

Problem Solving

Reducing conflict in your support system creates a more positive environment for everyone. Together, we work on the skills that allow you to address problems and challenges in a productive way as they arise, to ensure that problems are solved before they progress. 

Communication Skills

High conflict in a support system can lead to more frequent relapses. We will draw on your strengths and find skills to help you and your supports communicate more effectively.

Making lifestyle Changes

We will show you how adjusting your lifestyle and environment can help you stay healthier longer. We will help you make a regular sleep schedule. We will find ways for you to manage stress and track your mood. We will identify barriers to managing and taking medication. We will empower you to make good choices and live your best life.

Building Resilience

We will build upon the strengths of you and your family. Through our client-centered approach, we’ll work together to enhance your coping skills, enabling you to face challenges with confidence and grace. 

Explore Services

Family and Individual Counseling

The primary treatment for bipolar disorder is medication. Therapy cannot be a substitute. Therapy, however, is an important part of your overall treatment plan. This is a safe place to process difficult emotions for individuals and families.

  • Family-Focused Therapy (FFT)

    Family-focused therapy (FFT) is an evidence-based intervention for adults and teens with bipolar disorder and their supports. FFT states that a patient’s relationship with their family and other support persons is vital to successfully managing their illness. The therapy consists of education regarding bipolar illness, communication enhancement training, and problem-solving skills training.

  • Narrative Therapy

    We are the stories that we tell about ourselves and the stories others tell about us. By reframing and reauthoring these stories, you can find empowerment, resilience, and a new perspective on your journey.

  • Accelerated Resolution Therapy

    This innovative approach helps your brain rapidly reprocess and emotional distress, providing relief and supporting your journey to wellness. It is excellent also for addressing anxiety and phobias.

  • Recovery-Oriented Cognitive Therapy (CT-R)

    What does your best life look like for you? What are your dreams and goals? Together we will explore what you find meaningful and engaging. We will establish goals to help you on your journey to your best life.

Our commitment to you

What you can expect

  • Non-judgmental Approach

    We will accept and appreciate you for who you are.

  • Respect

    Respect is the foundation of all relationships.

  • Warmth

    We focus on providing a warm and nurturing environment.

  • Humour

    We believe that laughter is the best medicine

  • Honesty

    Honesty is the foundation of our interactions.

Trust Us

Discover the Bipolar Wellness Advantage

Explore four compelling reasons why Bipolar Wellness is your premier choice for specialized care and support.

Specialized Knowledge and Focus

Bipolar Wellness is dedicated to addressing the specific needs of individuals with bipolar disorder.

Compassionate Support

Our core values of compassion and empathy underscore everything we do.

Holistic Approach

We prioritize your overall wellbeing and quality of life

Community

Choose Bipolar Wellness for a supportive community that truly understands your journey.

Headshot
Meet Giovanni

About Me

I am a registered social worker with a Master of Social Work degree from the University of Calgary. I have 14 years of experience working with clients with serious mental illness in educational, community, and clinical settings. My passion is helping others live their best lives.

In my free time, I enjoy reading non-fiction books about weird and random things. I’ve been playing video games since they were a new thing, but my passion is Pinball. I especially love spending time with my lovely wife, son, dog (Ronin), and cat (Stan Lee). 

Giovanni Di Monaco

MSW RSW