Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar Disorder Therapy Ottawa

Bipolar disorder is a mental illness that can cause significant shifts in mood and energy, including depressive lows and manic highs. Bipolar symptoms usually become apparent during late adolescence or early adulthood. Symptoms can be triggered by events, as well, such as pregnancy and childbirth. 


Depressive episodes are signified by feeling "down," sad, indifferent, or hopeless. Signs of a manic episode include feeling very energized, elated and/or irritable. Manic or depressive episodes may happen fairly rarely, up to multiple times a year.


Individuals with a diagnosis of Bipolar Disorder I tend to experience episodes of mania as well as depressive episodes. A diagnosis of Bipolar Disorder II is characterized by episodes of depression and episodes of hypomania (an elevated state that is less intense and lengthy than a manic episode).

Gilmour Psychologists with Expertise in Bipolar Disorder

Contact Gilmour Psychological Services® in Ottawa to schedule a consultation with a psychologist who has an expertise in bipolar disorder.

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By Kristi Rudolph May 4, 2026
Dr. Mari Shanahan Somerville, PhD, C.Psych, is in supervised practice at GPS under supervision by Dr. Deanna Drahovzal . Dr. Shanahan Somerville approaches therapy with the belief that the human mind is both powerful and adaptable. Each person experiences the world through a unique lens shaped by past experiences. While these experiences cannot be changed, the ways we understand and respond to them can evolve. Even when it may feel difficult, it is possible to develop new, more adaptive ways of relating to ourselves, others, and the world around us. Dr. Shanahan Somerville views therapy as an opportunity to cultivate self-direction and inner capacity, approaching oneself with compassion, curiosity, and resilience while exploring meaningful change. Dr. Shanahan Somerville holds a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from Concordia University and has worked with individuals across the lifespan in a range of settings, including private practice, community mental health in both Indigenous and urban settings, a school board, and the Allan Memorial Institute of the McGill University Health Centre (MUHC) . This breadth of experience has reinforced her belief that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to healing. She practices from an integrative framework, grounded primarily in psychodynamic and cognitive behavioural therapies, and incorporates elements of third-wave cognitive behavioural approaches and mindful self-compassion. Central to Dr. Shanahan Somerville’s work is a deep respect for each client’s individual pace. She recognizes that trust develops over time and is committed to creating a space where clients feel safe to explore their inner world in a way that feels manageable and secure. She strives to meet clients where they are, offering a compassionate, non-judgmental environment where their voice and perspective remain at the center of the work. Beginning therapy is a meaningful and often courageous step. Dr. Shanahan Somerville would be honoured to support you in this process as you work toward greater understanding, growth, and well-being.
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September 17, 2022
Dr. Davies provides psychological services to individual adults, couples, children, and their families. She has had her own private practice since 1989, and for seven years prior to that worked as a supervised associate in private practice.
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September 5, 2022
Dr. Zahradnik provides psychodiagnostic assessment and psychotherapeutic services to both adolescents and adults.
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September 3, 2022
Dr. Ostiguy provides psychotherapy to Anglophone and Francophone adults and young adults. She works with clients experiencing a wide range of challenges such as anger problems, low self-esteem, anxiety, and stress management. Her particular area of expertise is in the assessment and treatment of mood disorders such as depression and bipolar disorder.
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August 30, 2022
Dr. Miller’s theoretical orientation integrates interpersonal, cognitive behavioural, schema-focused and mindfulness-based approaches in helping clients develop an increased awareness of the factors that cause and maintain their difficulties. She guides them towards achieving their goals and making positive changes in their lives.
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August 28, 2022
Dr. Angelina Chupetlovska provides treatment to children, adolescents, adults and families. She also conducts child custody and access assessments. In her psychotherapy orientation Dr. Chupetlovska brings together aspects from the psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioural, rational-emotive, and humanistic approaches.