Photo of Ferdinand Labuga Briones, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ferdinand Labuga Briones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Peoria, AZ 85381
I specialized in treating patients (children and adults) who are suffering from depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, mood disorders, Obsessive-Compulsive disorder, PTSD, Schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders.
NOW Accepting New Patients (Open Weekends & Evenings). I am a compassionate clinician who values each of my client regardless of their gender, color, race, religion, values, beliefs, disability, and economic status. We provide in-office or virtual services.
I specialized in treating patients (children and adults) who are suffering from depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, mood disorders, Obsessive-Compulsive disorder, PTSD, Schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders.
NOW Accepting New Patients (Open Weekends & Evenings). I am a compassionate clinician who values each of my client regardless of their gender, color, race, religion, values, beliefs, disability, and economic status. We provide in-office or virtual services.
(623) 253-7958 View (623) 253-7958
Photo of Brett Curran - Ages 4 And Up, PMHNPBC, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brett Curran - Ages 4 And Up
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, DNP
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85718
Over many years of practice, I have specialized in the treatment of ADHD, other childhood related psychiatric disorders, depression, anxiety, panic disorders, OCD, PTSD, bipolar, eating disorders, sleep related disorders, and other psychosis disorders.
I have been practicing as a Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) since graduating from the University of Southern Maine in 2010. I completed my doctoral education in 2021 culminating in a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree. I have also obtained Master’s and Bachelor’s level degrees in psychology/forensic psychology and have worked previously as a counselor. As a PMHNP, I have worked in a variety of settings including inpatient, outpatient, virtual telemedicine, corrections, IOP, ACT, long term care, and administration.
Over many years of practice, I have specialized in the treatment of ADHD, other childhood related psychiatric disorders, depression, anxiety, panic disorders, OCD, PTSD, bipolar, eating disorders, sleep related disorders, and other psychosis disorders.
I have been practicing as a Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) since graduating from the University of Southern Maine in 2010. I completed my doctoral education in 2021 culminating in a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree. I have also obtained Master’s and Bachelor’s level degrees in psychology/forensic psychology and have worked previously as a counselor. As a PMHNP, I have worked in a variety of settings including inpatient, outpatient, virtual telemedicine, corrections, IOP, ACT, long term care, and administration.
(520) 729-4188 View (520) 729-4188
Photo of undefined - Pool of Bethesda Psychiatric Health, PMHNPBC, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Pool of Bethesda Psychiatric Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, CNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Surprise, AZ 85374  (Online Only)
Are you overwhelmed in these troubled times? Are you experiencing Acute Stress Syndrome? Is your Anxiety or Depression uncontrollable? Are you living with BIPOLAR, PTSD and ADHD? Together, let's end the shame, guilt, doubt, hopelessness, helplessness, and lack of self-worth. We are Dr. Hancock and Shawn Dugan- Your Compassionate Board-Certified Psych. Mental Health (PMHNP-BC) DNP. Regardless of who you see, We Care & We Serve. Appointments In Green Valley, Surprise, and AZ Offices Are Available, however due to COVID-19 Pandemic, We are currently open for Tele-Psych & TMS appts in Arizona. Most insurances are accepted. Call us today!
Are you overwhelmed in these troubled times? Are you experiencing Acute Stress Syndrome? Is your Anxiety or Depression uncontrollable? Are you living with BIPOLAR, PTSD and ADHD? Together, let's end the shame, guilt, doubt, hopelessness, helplessness, and lack of self-worth. We are Dr. Hancock and Shawn Dugan- Your Compassionate Board-Certified Psych. Mental Health (PMHNP-BC) DNP. Regardless of who you see, We Care & We Serve. Appointments In Green Valley, Surprise, and AZ Offices Are Available, however due to COVID-19 Pandemic, We are currently open for Tele-Psych & TMS appts in Arizona. Most insurances are accepted. Call us today!
(623) 278-7729 View (623) 278-7729
Photo of undefined - Psych ZenHealth, Pllc, MSN, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Psych ZenHealth, Pllc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85014
I treat various disorders such as anxiety disorders, depression, insomnia, PTSD, ADHD, panic attacks, phobias, OCD, conduct disorder, adjustment disorder, anger mngt, stress, bipolar disorder, psychosis, borderline and other personality disorders.
Psych ZenHealth is committed to providing holistic and compassionate care to the population in our community from ages 17 years and above; to restore, improve and maintain optimal mental health. In course of providing treatment for my clients, I incorporate psychotherapy, Christian counseling, motivational interview, cognitive behavioral therapy, reality orientation, counseling, meditation, health education on diet & exercise and positive reinforcement. I am committed to collaborative care which means, I consider overall physical, mental, emotional and social issues and make referral when necessary to other healthcare specialists.
I treat various disorders such as anxiety disorders, depression, insomnia, PTSD, ADHD, panic attacks, phobias, OCD, conduct disorder, adjustment disorder, anger mngt, stress, bipolar disorder, psychosis, borderline and other personality disorders.
Psych ZenHealth is committed to providing holistic and compassionate care to the population in our community from ages 17 years and above; to restore, improve and maintain optimal mental health. In course of providing treatment for my clients, I incorporate psychotherapy, Christian counseling, motivational interview, cognitive behavioral therapy, reality orientation, counseling, meditation, health education on diet & exercise and positive reinforcement. I am committed to collaborative care which means, I consider overall physical, mental, emotional and social issues and make referral when necessary to other healthcare specialists.
(623) 439-7645 View (623) 439-7645
Photo of undefined - Fidel Psychiatric Health Services PLLC, MSN, APN, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Fidel Psychiatric Health Services PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85029  (Online Only)
Make Appointment now with link: https://provider.kareo.com/fidelis-ebereonwu Your mental health has a lot to tell about your success in life. Many people are suffering from depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, psychosis and substance abuse to mention only a few. There is no shame in seeking help. You will be helped and not judged. I will do my best to help you get better and get well. I have the compassion and what it takes to help you. Please let us share that problem. Book here and be seen through headway. https://headway.co/providers/fidelis-ebereonwu?utm_source=pem&utm_medium=direct_link&utm_campaign=71305
Make Appointment now with link: https://provider.kareo.com/fidelis-ebereonwu Your mental health has a lot to tell about your success in life. Many people are suffering from depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, psychosis and substance abuse to mention only a few. There is no shame in seeking help. You will be helped and not judged. I will do my best to help you get better and get well. I have the compassion and what it takes to help you. Please let us share that problem. Book here and be seen through headway. https://headway.co/providers/fidelis-ebereonwu?utm_source=pem&utm_medium=direct_link&utm_campaign=71305
(602) 584-8623 View (602) 584-8623
Photo of Benitho Louissaint, MSN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Benitho Louissaint
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85283
Mission statement: Samaria Behavioral Health Center’s (SBHC) mission strives to provide the highest level of mental wellness for the community. The clients range from adolescents to geriatric patients. We promise to provide culturally competent, comprehensive, compassionate, evidence-based, wellness-focused care that promotes a safe space for optimal mental health recovery.
Mission statement: Samaria Behavioral Health Center’s (SBHC) mission strives to provide the highest level of mental wellness for the community. The clients range from adolescents to geriatric patients. We promise to provide culturally competent, comprehensive, compassionate, evidence-based, wellness-focused care that promotes a safe space for optimal mental health recovery.
(480) 372-9760 View (480) 372-9760
Photo of Dr. Travis Wolfangel, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Travis Wolfangel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85013
As a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community, my goal is to empower every individual to live their authentic self.
As a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community, my goal is to empower every individual to live their authentic self.
(623) 294-6304 View (623) 294-6304
Photo of undefined - BM Global Healthcare Services, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
BM Global Healthcare Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gilbert, AZ 85295
What are you going through? Are you experiencing Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, ADHD, Stress, or just feel like nothing is working. Come see us at BM Global Healthcare Services so we can help you be the better version of yourself. Bala Michael Wambebe is a board certified and compassionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with over seven years of clinical experience in medical and psychiatric settings. Bala specializes in Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, ADHD, Stress, and Substance abuse. Complimentary services such as supportive therapy, medication management, and counseling are offered with a focus on client empowerment.
What are you going through? Are you experiencing Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, ADHD, Stress, or just feel like nothing is working. Come see us at BM Global Healthcare Services so we can help you be the better version of yourself. Bala Michael Wambebe is a board certified and compassionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with over seven years of clinical experience in medical and psychiatric settings. Bala specializes in Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, ADHD, Stress, and Substance abuse. Complimentary services such as supportive therapy, medication management, and counseling are offered with a focus on client empowerment.
(928) 285-6141 View (928) 285-6141
Photo of undefined - Ponyacare , PHMNP , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ponyacare
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PHMNP
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85257
At Ponyacare, we recognize that psychiatric care plays a vital role in managing mental health conditions. Our dedicated team includes qualified psychiatrists who specialize in diagnosing and treating a wide range of mental illnesses. They will work closely with you to provide personalized psychiatric evaluations, ongoing monitoring, and medication management when necessary. Our approach to psychiatric care is centered on collaborative and holistic treatment. We understand that medication alone may not address all the complexities of mental health, which is why our psychiatrists work closely with our therapists and other mental heal
At Ponyacare, we recognize that psychiatric care plays a vital role in managing mental health conditions. Our dedicated team includes qualified psychiatrists who specialize in diagnosing and treating a wide range of mental illnesses. They will work closely with you to provide personalized psychiatric evaluations, ongoing monitoring, and medication management when necessary. Our approach to psychiatric care is centered on collaborative and holistic treatment. We understand that medication alone may not address all the complexities of mental health, which is why our psychiatrists work closely with our therapists and other mental heal
(480) 906-3236 View (480) 906-3236
Photo of undefined - Estrella Integrative Psychiatry, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Estrella Integrative Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Avondale, AZ 85392
Estrella Integrative Psychiatry is an outpatient mental health clinic located in Avondale, Arizona. We specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, attention deficit disorder, childhood behavioral problems, substance abuse, and a variety of other mental health issues. We treat patients of all ages, from children and adolescents, to adults and geriatric populations.
Estrella Integrative Psychiatry is an outpatient mental health clinic located in Avondale, Arizona. We specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, attention deficit disorder, childhood behavioral problems, substance abuse, and a variety of other mental health issues. We treat patients of all ages, from children and adolescents, to adults and geriatric populations.
(623) 207-7333 View (623) 207-7333
Photo of Dr. David Tanis, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. David Tanis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anthem, AZ 85086
Now offering ketamine treatments for depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Are you or your child struggling with anorexia, bulimia, or binge eating disorder? Has substance abuse and addiction been holding you or your teen back from building loving relationships, holding high self-worth, or reaching work or school achievements? Have you been overwhelmed with anxiety and depression, and is it preventing you from living your fullest life? I look forward to working with you or your child to address issues with eating disorders, addiction, anxiety, depression, trauma, and PTSD.
Now offering ketamine treatments for depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Are you or your child struggling with anorexia, bulimia, or binge eating disorder? Has substance abuse and addiction been holding you or your teen back from building loving relationships, holding high self-worth, or reaching work or school achievements? Have you been overwhelmed with anxiety and depression, and is it preventing you from living your fullest life? I look forward to working with you or your child to address issues with eating disorders, addiction, anxiety, depression, trauma, and PTSD.
(928) 693-4527 View (928) 693-4527
Photo of Sean Elrod, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sean Elrod
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Mesa, AZ 85207  (Online Only)
ADHD Certified! I know you're looking for a better life, I know you don't like how things are going right now. Lets get you to where you want to be..fast! You may feel overwhelmed, like you're being judged all the time, criticized, or maybe you're spending a lot of time worrying, and feel down. All these emotions can make you feel exhausted all the time, like you don't know how or where to start! It takes a lot of courage to acknowledge that you need help and to take the first step toward finding a solution for your concerns. I promise you, I will make you feel comfortable and earn your trust.
ADHD Certified! I know you're looking for a better life, I know you don't like how things are going right now. Lets get you to where you want to be..fast! You may feel overwhelmed, like you're being judged all the time, criticized, or maybe you're spending a lot of time worrying, and feel down. All these emotions can make you feel exhausted all the time, like you don't know how or where to start! It takes a lot of courage to acknowledge that you need help and to take the first step toward finding a solution for your concerns. I promise you, I will make you feel comfortable and earn your trust.
(480) 470-3086 View (480) 470-3086
Photo of Dr. Anthony Quinn, Psychiatrist
Dr. Anthony Quinn
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85281
Immediate Availability! Behavioral Health Solutions is accepting new patients for medication consultation, suboxone treatment and other psychiatry needs. Are you experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma or other concerns that keep you from progressing in life? Here at Behavioral Health Solutions, our team of licensed therapists and psychiatrists are experienced and caring. My interest in practicing psychiatry stems from a passion and desire to form meaningful connections with other people. Building self-esteem, increasing resilience, and expanding personal development are all involved in my daily work with patients.
Immediate Availability! Behavioral Health Solutions is accepting new patients for medication consultation, suboxone treatment and other psychiatry needs. Are you experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma or other concerns that keep you from progressing in life? Here at Behavioral Health Solutions, our team of licensed therapists and psychiatrists are experienced and caring. My interest in practicing psychiatry stems from a passion and desire to form meaningful connections with other people. Building self-esteem, increasing resilience, and expanding personal development are all involved in my daily work with patients.
(702) 820-4164 View (702) 820-4164
Photo of Ken Gifford, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ken Gifford
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85719
My ideal client as a nurse practitioner seeks psychiatric care to improve mental well-being. They may have mood or anxiety disorders. They need assessments, medication management, and support. They desire a provider who listens, respects autonomy, and creates a tailored treatment plan. Their goal is symptom relief, better functioning, and a higher quality of life. They value mental health's impact on overall well-being. I provide expert care, prescribe medication when necessary, monitor outcomes, and offer education for self-management. It's about promoting well-being through trust and patient-centered care.
My ideal client as a nurse practitioner seeks psychiatric care to improve mental well-being. They may have mood or anxiety disorders. They need assessments, medication management, and support. They desire a provider who listens, respects autonomy, and creates a tailored treatment plan. Their goal is symptom relief, better functioning, and a higher quality of life. They value mental health's impact on overall well-being. I provide expert care, prescribe medication when necessary, monitor outcomes, and offer education for self-management. It's about promoting well-being through trust and patient-centered care.
(520) 317-7282 View (520) 317-7282
Photo of undefined - Desert Sage Behavioral Health, Psych, MH, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Desert Sage Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Psych, MH, NP
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85719
Daniel Chafetz is PsychMH/NP Board Certified Graduate of University of Arizona and Arizona State University with over 20 years of experience working in behavioral health in a variety of settings. "I do take a genuine interest in my clients. It is very fulfilling to watch people get better and attain their highest level of functioning. I use a collaborative approach with my clients and strive for excellence in over-all wholesome health."
Daniel Chafetz is PsychMH/NP Board Certified Graduate of University of Arizona and Arizona State University with over 20 years of experience working in behavioral health in a variety of settings. "I do take a genuine interest in my clients. It is very fulfilling to watch people get better and attain their highest level of functioning. I use a collaborative approach with my clients and strive for excellence in over-all wholesome health."
(520) 357-0072 View (520) 357-0072
Photo of David Rope, MSN, FNP-BC, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
David Rope
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-BC, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Queen Creek, AZ 85142
I am a dual board-certified Nurse Practitioner in Psychiatry and Mental Health as well as Family Practice. I graduated in 2000 with a Master’s of Science in Nursing from University of San Diego and in 2019 with a postgraduate degree in Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing from Western Kentucky University. I have a subspecialty in Latino health and am bilingual in Spanish and bicultural in the Latino lifestyle. My training and experiences have led to a passionate pursuit of partnering with individuals and families to restore optimal mental health. I also advocate to erase the stigma and stereotypes of mental health.
I am a dual board-certified Nurse Practitioner in Psychiatry and Mental Health as well as Family Practice. I graduated in 2000 with a Master’s of Science in Nursing from University of San Diego and in 2019 with a postgraduate degree in Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing from Western Kentucky University. I have a subspecialty in Latino health and am bilingual in Spanish and bicultural in the Latino lifestyle. My training and experiences have led to a passionate pursuit of partnering with individuals and families to restore optimal mental health. I also advocate to erase the stigma and stereotypes of mental health.
(520) 214-9475 View (520) 214-9475
Photo of Chris Azode (Dnp), BC, DNP, PMHNP-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Chris Azode (Dnp)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BC, DNP, PMHNP-
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85029
I am a doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) prepared, dependable, high energy, and self-motivated. Detail-oriented with strongly organizational skills and the ability to adapt easily to change as part of the team. I am a strong team player, have good communication skills, and enthusiasm for learning new skills and taking on new tasks. Practice Style: close attention to personal service as well as attention to individual needs. Office Setting: My office is in a quiet environment and easily accessible from major cross streets. It is handicapped accessible, has dedicated parking spaces for patients, and private entrance.
I am a doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) prepared, dependable, high energy, and self-motivated. Detail-oriented with strongly organizational skills and the ability to adapt easily to change as part of the team. I am a strong team player, have good communication skills, and enthusiasm for learning new skills and taking on new tasks. Practice Style: close attention to personal service as well as attention to individual needs. Office Setting: My office is in a quiet environment and easily accessible from major cross streets. It is handicapped accessible, has dedicated parking spaces for patients, and private entrance.
(602) 975-3930 View (602) 975-3930
Photo of undefined - K&E Behavioral Health Services LLC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
K&E Behavioral Health Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85015
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, mood disorder, or substance use disorder? Are you struggling with your daily activities because of your mental health challenges? K& E Behavioral Health Services is here to help. We are happy to serve individuals and their families manage their mental health challenges through counseling and therapeutic support.
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, mood disorder, or substance use disorder? Are you struggling with your daily activities because of your mental health challenges? K& E Behavioral Health Services is here to help. We are happy to serve individuals and their families manage their mental health challenges through counseling and therapeutic support.
(602) 878-9850 View (602) 878-9850
Photo of Jared Brink, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jared Brink
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85027  (Online Only)
Jared Brink is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner raised in Northern AZ. He discovered his passion for helping others after graduating from ASU with a degree in nursing in 2012. Over the years Jared has developed a keen desire to help people who are hurting, both physically and mentally. Working as an acute care ICU nurse for years, it was extremely satisfying providing care and compassion to people who desperately needed it. However, after joining an outpatient assertive community treatment (ACT) team helping those with severe mental illness Jared knew he would become a psychiatric provider.
Jared Brink is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner raised in Northern AZ. He discovered his passion for helping others after graduating from ASU with a degree in nursing in 2012. Over the years Jared has developed a keen desire to help people who are hurting, both physically and mentally. Working as an acute care ICU nurse for years, it was extremely satisfying providing care and compassion to people who desperately needed it. However, after joining an outpatient assertive community treatment (ACT) team helping those with severe mental illness Jared knew he would become a psychiatric provider.
(480) 300-8965 View (480) 300-8965
Photo of Dr. Robbie Westerman, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Robbie Westerman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Surprise, AZ 85387  (Online Only)
Dr. Robbie, PMHNP, offers treatment and medication management for depression, ADHD, substance use, anxiety, and other mood disorders. This includes children up through adulthood. Professionally, he has worked at renowned Meadows Behavioral Healthcare for over ten years. This has included work with drug addiction, sex addiction, personality disorders, eating disorders, adolescent psychiatry, and general psychiatry. Other assignments have included Calvary Healing Center, Fountain Hills Recovery, and Springridge School for Girls. Dr. Robbie focuses on accurately formulating diagnostics and uncovering the root cause of your struggle.
Dr. Robbie, PMHNP, offers treatment and medication management for depression, ADHD, substance use, anxiety, and other mood disorders. This includes children up through adulthood. Professionally, he has worked at renowned Meadows Behavioral Healthcare for over ten years. This has included work with drug addiction, sex addiction, personality disorders, eating disorders, adolescent psychiatry, and general psychiatry. Other assignments have included Calvary Healing Center, Fountain Hills Recovery, and Springridge School for Girls. Dr. Robbie focuses on accurately formulating diagnostics and uncovering the root cause of your struggle.
(623) 432-7368 View (623) 432-7368
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.