Bipolar Disorder Psychiatrists in 97205

Photo of Marisa Bell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in 97205, OR
Marisa Bell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205  (Online Only)
I particularly enjoy helping people with bipolar, OCD, and PTSD who may be searching for equilibrium and answers to the big questions these new diagnoses have brought up.
I believe people in early adulthood deserve high-quality and compassionate care tailored for this challenging phase of every person’s life. Your twenties (and thirties) can be awesome. Let’s make it happen for you! I am straightforward in my approach, listen carefully and work at your pace. In treatment I attempt to balance my expertise– the science supporting medication decisions– with your own expertise– your body and mind. At the core, I work with people who are struggling and want to reclaim their lives. If you don’t know what’s going on or how to get better, I’m happy to guide you on your path to finding out.
I particularly enjoy helping people with bipolar, OCD, and PTSD who may be searching for equilibrium and answers to the big questions these new diagnoses have brought up.
I believe people in early adulthood deserve high-quality and compassionate care tailored for this challenging phase of every person’s life. Your twenties (and thirties) can be awesome. Let’s make it happen for you! I am straightforward in my approach, listen carefully and work at your pace. In treatment I attempt to balance my expertise– the science supporting medication decisions– with your own expertise– your body and mind. At the core, I work with people who are struggling and want to reclaim their lives. If you don’t know what’s going on or how to get better, I’m happy to guide you on your path to finding out.
(541) 920-1081 View (541) 920-1081
Photo of Brian Pollock, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in 97205, OR
Brian Pollock
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
My areas of expertise include Bipolar Disorder, Depression, OCD, PTSD, anxiety disorders and mood disorders.
I welcome and am excited to help people of all backgrounds and identities! I am here if you are looking for relief from emotional pain, mental distress or other struggles. I want to help you through whatever is causing you difficulties in a supportive and collaborative way. I am thoughtful, and I listen with openness and compassion. I strive to create an accepting and safe environment where we work together to decrease your symptoms and struggles and to support your health and growth. One specific passion and areas of expertise of mine is working with college students which I have been doing for 10 years!
My areas of expertise include Bipolar Disorder, Depression, OCD, PTSD, anxiety disorders and mood disorders.
I welcome and am excited to help people of all backgrounds and identities! I am here if you are looking for relief from emotional pain, mental distress or other struggles. I want to help you through whatever is causing you difficulties in a supportive and collaborative way. I am thoughtful, and I listen with openness and compassion. I strive to create an accepting and safe environment where we work together to decrease your symptoms and struggles and to support your health and growth. One specific passion and areas of expertise of mine is working with college students which I have been doing for 10 years!
(971) 247-3643 x1 View (971) 247-3643 x1
Photo of Donna D Templeton, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in 97205, OR
Donna D Templeton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, LAC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
I provide medication management, psychotherapy, lifestyle coaching and stress management in a warm, compassionate, non-judgmental environment to adolescents and adults with anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, eating disorders, personality disorders, ADHD, PTSD, sexual abuse and LGBTQ issues.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. I am a board-certified psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner with over twenty years of experience. One thing I have learned in working with a wide variety of clients is that each person is a unique individual. Even though there may be similarities in problems and symptoms, there is no "one size fits all" treatment approach. When you come to me for treatment, I want to get to know you so that together we can figure out the best ways to help you manage the symptoms and deal with the problems you are experiencing. Together we will work toward achieving optimal well being and life satisfaction for you.
I provide medication management, psychotherapy, lifestyle coaching and stress management in a warm, compassionate, non-judgmental environment to adolescents and adults with anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, eating disorders, personality disorders, ADHD, PTSD, sexual abuse and LGBTQ issues.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. I am a board-certified psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner with over twenty years of experience. One thing I have learned in working with a wide variety of clients is that each person is a unique individual. Even though there may be similarities in problems and symptoms, there is no "one size fits all" treatment approach. When you come to me for treatment, I want to get to know you so that together we can figure out the best ways to help you manage the symptoms and deal with the problems you are experiencing. Together we will work toward achieving optimal well being and life satisfaction for you.
(971) 257-1188 View (971) 257-1188
Photo of Onome Edokun, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in 97205, OR
Onome Edokun
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, ACNP, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97205  (Online Only)
Services we offers includes diagnostic evaluation, medication management and psychotherapy for individuals with ADHD, Bipolar, Depression, Anxiety/Panic, OCD, PTSD, Insomnia, and postpartum depression, other mental health disorders.
At Lights Health, we specialized in Adolescent and Adult mental health. We provide Safe Compassionate care using Evidence Based practice to enhance the well-being of individuals struggling with mental health challenges such as ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, PTSD, OCD, Insomnia, Pregnancy a postpartum, eating disorder. We are dedicated to creating a therapeutic alliance with our patients built on trust, empathy and understanding, creating a safe space where individuals can express themselves without judgment. We will work with you to individualize the treatment plan to meet your specific needs.
Services we offers includes diagnostic evaluation, medication management and psychotherapy for individuals with ADHD, Bipolar, Depression, Anxiety/Panic, OCD, PTSD, Insomnia, and postpartum depression, other mental health disorders.
At Lights Health, we specialized in Adolescent and Adult mental health. We provide Safe Compassionate care using Evidence Based practice to enhance the well-being of individuals struggling with mental health challenges such as ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, PTSD, OCD, Insomnia, Pregnancy a postpartum, eating disorder. We are dedicated to creating a therapeutic alliance with our patients built on trust, empathy and understanding, creating a safe space where individuals can express themselves without judgment. We will work with you to individualize the treatment plan to meet your specific needs.
(832) 346-7662 View (832) 346-7662
Photo of Jeff Leininger, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in 97205, OR
Jeff Leininger
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
I help individuals who are experiencing challenging life transitions, acute or chronic anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar, insomnia and chemical dependency issues. Soon, I will offer Ketamine and Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy. I work with clients during their times of wellness in order to create a more balanced, mindful and body-centered consciousness. I have considerable experience working with individuals who are reconsidering their relationship to alcohol and other substances.
I help individuals who are experiencing challenging life transitions, acute or chronic anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar, insomnia and chemical dependency issues. Soon, I will offer Ketamine and Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy. I work with clients during their times of wellness in order to create a more balanced, mindful and body-centered consciousness. I have considerable experience working with individuals who are reconsidering their relationship to alcohol and other substances.
(415) 702-4304 View (415) 702-4304
Photo of Steven Knott, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in 97205, OR
Steven Knott
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205  (Online Only)
I am a board certified, licensed psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I graduated from college with recognition for outstanding scholastic performance in the major of nursing at the University of Nevada-Las Vegas. I spent the next 7 years working in mental health with all different populations and facilities within Las Vegas, then graduated from top-ranked Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program in the United States through Vanderbilt University. I was a recipient of the Vanderbilt School of Nursing Scholarship fund and was invited to the Iota Chapter of Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing.
I am a board certified, licensed psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I graduated from college with recognition for outstanding scholastic performance in the major of nursing at the University of Nevada-Las Vegas. I spent the next 7 years working in mental health with all different populations and facilities within Las Vegas, then graduated from top-ranked Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program in the United States through Vanderbilt University. I was a recipient of the Vanderbilt School of Nursing Scholarship fund and was invited to the Iota Chapter of Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing.
(971) 545-8153 View (971) 545-8153
Soroush Mohandessi
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
Welcome! To the beginning of your journey toward mental clarity, fulfillment and reuniting with your true self. For over 20 years, I've treated individuals with psychiatry disorders. I am currently available for new patients for medication evaluation, 2nd opinion consultation, treatment planning and medication management. I have been appointed a Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association (2015) in recognition of my dedication and service to the field of mental health treatment.
Welcome! To the beginning of your journey toward mental clarity, fulfillment and reuniting with your true self. For over 20 years, I've treated individuals with psychiatry disorders. I am currently available for new patients for medication evaluation, 2nd opinion consultation, treatment planning and medication management. I have been appointed a Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association (2015) in recognition of my dedication and service to the field of mental health treatment.
(971) 715-2826 View (971) 715-2826
Photo of Elena Logvinenko, Psychiatrist in 97205, OR
Elena Logvinenko
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
Waitlist for new clients
I’m a board certified psychiatrist in Portland. I provide both psychotherapy and medication management; I also offer psychiatric evaluation and med management to folks who already have an individual therapist who they see regularly (at least every other week, preferably one or more times a week). While my vibe is casual, my clinical approach (both meds and therapy) is thoughtful, evidence based, and individualized. Medication can turn people's lives around, but it's not the best choice (or likely to work) for everyone. I value having a very thorough picture of the entire situation before proposing any course of treatment.
I’m a board certified psychiatrist in Portland. I provide both psychotherapy and medication management; I also offer psychiatric evaluation and med management to folks who already have an individual therapist who they see regularly (at least every other week, preferably one or more times a week). While my vibe is casual, my clinical approach (both meds and therapy) is thoughtful, evidence based, and individualized. Medication can turn people's lives around, but it's not the best choice (or likely to work) for everyone. I value having a very thorough picture of the entire situation before proposing any course of treatment.
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Photo of Anne Brown, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in 97205, OR
Anne Brown
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
We all must contend with suffering in one form or another, and it can be helpful to develop a relationship with a psychotherapist to explore the meaning to be found in it. I believe this can lead to deep transformation. We typically come to therapy due to getting caught in a whirlwind of some kind: sudden loss via death or romantic breakup, prolonged grief, or an awakening to our outdated patterns and fixed negative beliefs about ourselves. We can also use the therapy space to enrich our capacity for curiosity, enhance our imagination, and better find our footing.
We all must contend with suffering in one form or another, and it can be helpful to develop a relationship with a psychotherapist to explore the meaning to be found in it. I believe this can lead to deep transformation. We typically come to therapy due to getting caught in a whirlwind of some kind: sudden loss via death or romantic breakup, prolonged grief, or an awakening to our outdated patterns and fixed negative beliefs about ourselves. We can also use the therapy space to enrich our capacity for curiosity, enhance our imagination, and better find our footing.
(503) 928-6402 View (503) 928-6402
Photo of Nate Smith, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in 97205, OR
Nate Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MN, RN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205  (Online Only)
Hello! I'm currently accepting clients for medication management only for Oregon residents. As you consider mental health medications, you're likely feeling some mix of overwhelmed, exhausted, unfulfilled, and "stuck." The way you feel might be connected to challenging transitions in your life, a sense of unmet potential, or even long-held emotions and memories of painful experiences and relationships. The good news is that often times medications work and finding the right "fit" in a provider is a big initial step. Please click over to my website to see a full description of my approach. I look forward to hearing from you!
Hello! I'm currently accepting clients for medication management only for Oregon residents. As you consider mental health medications, you're likely feeling some mix of overwhelmed, exhausted, unfulfilled, and "stuck." The way you feel might be connected to challenging transitions in your life, a sense of unmet potential, or even long-held emotions and memories of painful experiences and relationships. The good news is that often times medications work and finding the right "fit" in a provider is a big initial step. Please click over to my website to see a full description of my approach. I look forward to hearing from you!
(503) 962-0493 x2 View (503) 962-0493 x2
Photo of Heramba Mental Healthcare, PC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in 97205, OR
Heramba Mental Healthcare, PC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, ARNP-BC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
We accept new clients every day throughout the year. We are opened every day, include Saturdays and Sundays. We accept Medicaid, Medicare, and all commercial insurances. We do in person appointment and telepsychiatry, telemedicine, or telehealth availabilities. Mental health disorders impact people from a broad spectrum of the population. We love to help and support people. We are passionate about our patients’ psychiatric health and wellbeing. We spend time listening to our clients. We take into considerations our clients’ preferences and complaints. We treat our clients as a “full flesh human being”, with respect and dignity.
We accept new clients every day throughout the year. We are opened every day, include Saturdays and Sundays. We accept Medicaid, Medicare, and all commercial insurances. We do in person appointment and telepsychiatry, telemedicine, or telehealth availabilities. Mental health disorders impact people from a broad spectrum of the population. We love to help and support people. We are passionate about our patients’ psychiatric health and wellbeing. We spend time listening to our clients. We take into considerations our clients’ preferences and complaints. We treat our clients as a “full flesh human being”, with respect and dignity.
(971) 314-6635 View (971) 314-6635
Photo of VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in 97205, OR
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, APRN
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205  (Online Only)
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits in Oregon state for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99. Accepting some insurances.
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits in Oregon state for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99. Accepting some insurances.
(971) 256-8187 View (971) 256-8187
Photo of Heike Sommer, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in 97205, OR
Heike Sommer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP , BC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
Are you are looking for a prescriber who is well trained, experienced and compassionate while you are engaging in therapy and getting back to a healthy self care routine? Have you tried psychotropic medications that have not worked? Would you rather take natural remedies but have not had that much success? I do believe that psychotropic medications can be helpful short and long term. Nurse practitioners are known for their holistic approach and see you in the context of your culture, environment and situation. I am fond of collaboration with other providers to build a team for you and your mental health.
Are you are looking for a prescriber who is well trained, experienced and compassionate while you are engaging in therapy and getting back to a healthy self care routine? Have you tried psychotropic medications that have not worked? Would you rather take natural remedies but have not had that much success? I do believe that psychotropic medications can be helpful short and long term. Nurse practitioners are known for their holistic approach and see you in the context of your culture, environment and situation. I am fond of collaboration with other providers to build a team for you and your mental health.
(503) 334-0750 View (503) 334-0750
Photo of Njideka Domrufus, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in 97205, OR
Njideka Domrufus
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97205
Njideka (NJ) Domrufus is a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Advance Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) with a dual board certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She is an experienced Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with years of clinical experience in treating psychiatric disorders and specializes in treating major depression, substance use disorders, eating disorders, mood disorder, anxiety disorder, OCD, PTSD and ADHD.
Njideka (NJ) Domrufus is a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Advance Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) with a dual board certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She is an experienced Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with years of clinical experience in treating psychiatric disorders and specializes in treating major depression, substance use disorders, eating disorders, mood disorder, anxiety disorder, OCD, PTSD and ADHD.
(971) 224-7994 View (971) 224-7994
Photo of Nicole Ervin, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in 97205, OR
Nicole Ervin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205  (Online Only)
I support young adults in feeling empowered to address the things that are preventing you from being your most genuine self. I started my career as a primary care provider, where I learned that it is difficult to improve your physical health if your emotional health isn’t in a stable place. My background provides me with the expertise to help you navigate the interplay between physical and emotional concerns.
I support young adults in feeling empowered to address the things that are preventing you from being your most genuine self. I started my career as a primary care provider, where I learned that it is difficult to improve your physical health if your emotional health isn’t in a stable place. My background provides me with the expertise to help you navigate the interplay between physical and emotional concerns.
(206) 312-4314 View (206) 312-4314
Photo of Heather Hemmeger, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in 97205, OR
Heather Hemmeger
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PharmD, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
As both a psychiatric nurse practitioner and former pharmacist, I approach patient care from a unique lens, strategically blending elements of psychopharmacology with psychotherapy to foster healing, restore mind-body balance, and inspire self-compassion. My therapeutic approach can be described as warm, collaborative, and thorough—near the intersection of holistic meets scientific. I work from within a trauma-informed, anti-oppressive lens and am committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and empowering space for all who enter my door.
As both a psychiatric nurse practitioner and former pharmacist, I approach patient care from a unique lens, strategically blending elements of psychopharmacology with psychotherapy to foster healing, restore mind-body balance, and inspire self-compassion. My therapeutic approach can be described as warm, collaborative, and thorough—near the intersection of holistic meets scientific. I work from within a trauma-informed, anti-oppressive lens and am committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and empowering space for all who enter my door.
Photo of Melanie Ramsey, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in 97205, OR
Melanie Ramsey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97205  (Online Only)
Are you experiencing distress due to internal conflicts, trauma, relationships, fears, or feeling stuck? Do you feel anxious, depressed, and unmotivated? Some things are just too difficult to go through alone. Working with someone in a safe and compassionate environment without judgment can be the key to your understanding and growth. Your success and happiness are rooted in a partnership that we share. You do the hard part of being vulnerable; to the best of my ability, I will work to listen to and understand you, before developing a shared treatment plan. I am honored to support you on your journey to mental wellness.
Are you experiencing distress due to internal conflicts, trauma, relationships, fears, or feeling stuck? Do you feel anxious, depressed, and unmotivated? Some things are just too difficult to go through alone. Working with someone in a safe and compassionate environment without judgment can be the key to your understanding and growth. Your success and happiness are rooted in a partnership that we share. You do the hard part of being vulnerable; to the best of my ability, I will work to listen to and understand you, before developing a shared treatment plan. I am honored to support you on your journey to mental wellness.
(971) 232-3233 View (971) 232-3233
Photo of Red Clover Wellness, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in 97205, OR
Red Clover Wellness, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97205  (Online Only)
Appointment request can be found at: intakeq.com/new/9phqdc. Better mental health is within reach. I work in an active, collaborative way with individuals to find strategies that will reduce suffering associated with anxiety, mood problems, compulsions, chronic stress, loneliness, and other problems that affect daily living. I specialize in prescribing medication to target symptoms of psychiatric disorders, while maintaining focus on the whole person in treatment. We will discuss your overall health, self-care, relaxation practices, and finding meaning and inspiration in life, alongside evaluating your response to medications.
Appointment request can be found at: intakeq.com/new/9phqdc. Better mental health is within reach. I work in an active, collaborative way with individuals to find strategies that will reduce suffering associated with anxiety, mood problems, compulsions, chronic stress, loneliness, and other problems that affect daily living. I specialize in prescribing medication to target symptoms of psychiatric disorders, while maintaining focus on the whole person in treatment. We will discuss your overall health, self-care, relaxation practices, and finding meaning and inspiration in life, alongside evaluating your response to medications.
(503) 743-6721 View (503) 743-6721
Photo of Annie Hood, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in 97205, OR
Annie Hood
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97205
I received advanced practice training at OHSU, graduating with MSN in addition to a Psychology MA from the University of British Columbia. I am Board Certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center as lifespan Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I have expertise in treatments for anxiety, depression, trauma, psychosis, and medication-assisted treatments for substance use. My approach is client-centered, warm, and collaborative; employing evidence-based pharmacotherapeutic and functional interventions to support individual wellness goals.
I received advanced practice training at OHSU, graduating with MSN in addition to a Psychology MA from the University of British Columbia. I am Board Certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center as lifespan Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I have expertise in treatments for anxiety, depression, trauma, psychosis, and medication-assisted treatments for substance use. My approach is client-centered, warm, and collaborative; employing evidence-based pharmacotherapeutic and functional interventions to support individual wellness goals.
(503) 868-0238 View (503) 868-0238
Photo of Anicka Oyer Meyers, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in 97205, OR
Anicka Oyer Meyers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205  (Online Only)
I help people navigate transitions into young adulthood, parenthood, and gender or sexual identities. These changes can be overwhelming. Together we can connect you to your own inner guide. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, my hope is to create a space where you can share openly, find support for deep challenges, and share decision-making in your treatment. I use clinical diagnosis as a starting point, and together we will explore your individual story that cannot be written by anyone but you. My role is to help you move beyond diagnosis to relief, ease, and wellness.
I help people navigate transitions into young adulthood, parenthood, and gender or sexual identities. These changes can be overwhelming. Together we can connect you to your own inner guide. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, my hope is to create a space where you can share openly, find support for deep challenges, and share decision-making in your treatment. I use clinical diagnosis as a starting point, and together we will explore your individual story that cannot be written by anyone but you. My role is to help you move beyond diagnosis to relief, ease, and wellness.
(503) 564-1935 View (503) 564-1935
Bipolar Disorder Psychiatrists

What is the most successful approach to treating bipolar disorder?

Living with bipolar disorder can be challenging, and a number of therapies have been found effective in providing support to patients as they gain the skills to understand and manage the disorder. Family-focused therapy is often helpful for children and teens (the majority of cases develop before age 19); it aims to minimize mood cycling by improving family communication and reducing conflict. It also helps young people navigate the developmental challenges the disorder can create. Cognitive and behavioral therapy (CBT) and variants such as Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)help patients manage the thoughts and feelings that influence bipolar mood swings as well as develop specific behavioral strategies to counteract them.

What happens in therapy for bipolar disorder?

Because the patterns of mood switching and its triggers differ for each person and can change over time, mood tracking or monitoring becomes a basic way patients learn about the nature of their condition. One of the most common features of therapy is finding a workable method of mood monitoring, in which patients track their daily activities and rate their moods, then use the findings to adjust routines accordingly. Patients learn ways of handling the many stresses that arise in life so that they do not trigger mood swings.

What kinds of problems does therapy help with?

Like many other mental health disorders, BPD is heavily influenced by stress; therapy provides skills for coping with stressors of all kinds. Therapy is extremely important for helping individuals identify the situations that may trigger mood switching, so that mood swings can be prevented. Therapy may especially target recognition of the early stages of mood change so that they can be managed. In addition, therapy helps patients deal with the significant amount of turbulence the disorder can create in relationships and in work life.

What is the goal of therapy for bipolar disorder?

Therapy helps patients set up their lives to maintain stability so that their mood isn’t constantly threatened by daily events. Perhaps the first task of therapy is to educate people about the nature of the disorder. At the same time, a primary goal of therapy is to enhance adherence to drug treatment. Extended periods of mood stability can prompt patients to discontinue medication, triggering relapse, while the early phases of manic episodes can feel so energizing that patients stop medication, ushering in full-blown mania and the altered self-perception that can lead to destructive behaviors. Another major goal of therapy is to understand one’s mood patterns so as to minimize both the frequency and intensity of mood cycling.