Bipolar Disorder Psychiatrists in 97202

Photo of Davonna (Dee) Wilson, DNP, PMHNP, BC, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Davonna (Dee) Wilson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202
I provide mental health diagnostic evaluations and medication management, I work and treat an array of acute and chronic conditions with clients aged 7+, some of my specialties include Eating Disorders, ADHD, Behavior/Conduct, Mood disorders, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, OCD, PTSD, LGBTQ+, PMS/PMDD.
I am a board-certified Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My primary goal is to empower clients to regain their well-being and fully embrace their personal and professional lives. I believe compassionate care is at the heart of effective treatment. I prioritize active listening and open communication, allowing patients to express their concerns, fears, and aspirations freely. Creating a non-judgmental space fosters a strong therapeutic alliance based on trust and mutual respect, my approach goes beyond the diagnosis and treatment of mental health conditions, I like to get to know my patients as a whole person.
I provide mental health diagnostic evaluations and medication management, I work and treat an array of acute and chronic conditions with clients aged 7+, some of my specialties include Eating Disorders, ADHD, Behavior/Conduct, Mood disorders, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, OCD, PTSD, LGBTQ+, PMS/PMDD.
I am a board-certified Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My primary goal is to empower clients to regain their well-being and fully embrace their personal and professional lives. I believe compassionate care is at the heart of effective treatment. I prioritize active listening and open communication, allowing patients to express their concerns, fears, and aspirations freely. Creating a non-judgmental space fosters a strong therapeutic alliance based on trust and mutual respect, my approach goes beyond the diagnosis and treatment of mental health conditions, I like to get to know my patients as a whole person.
(971) 251-1623 View (971) 251-1623
UltimateProfessionalServices
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202  (Online Only)
Specialize in Anxiety disorders, ADHD, Depression, bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia and sleep related disorders.
Gostine Dankwa is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who provides comprehensive and individualized psychiatric care for patients who suffer from a variety of mental illnesses such as Anxiety disorders, ADHD, Depression, bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia and sleep related disorders. He is an engaging and compassionate practitioner who focuses on patient-centered care and listens to heal the patient from within. He specializes in therapy and medication management for individuals who suffer from mental illnesses. His focus is on holistic care and encourages individuals to be part of their care and help manage their physical and emotional.
Specialize in Anxiety disorders, ADHD, Depression, bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia and sleep related disorders.
Gostine Dankwa is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who provides comprehensive and individualized psychiatric care for patients who suffer from a variety of mental illnesses such as Anxiety disorders, ADHD, Depression, bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia and sleep related disorders. He is an engaging and compassionate practitioner who focuses on patient-centered care and listens to heal the patient from within. He specializes in therapy and medication management for individuals who suffer from mental illnesses. His focus is on holistic care and encourages individuals to be part of their care and help manage their physical and emotional.
(503) 447-8069 View (503) 447-8069
Photo of Jake Alan Freeman - Clarity Health Integrative Psychiatry Jake Freeman, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Clarity Health Integrative Psychiatry Jake Freeman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202  (Online Only)
I am currently seeing clients with Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar II, ADHD, OCD, Insomnia, and PTSD (and more).
Now taking Regence Blue Cross/Blue Shield! I am excited to have the opportunity to introduce myself as your potential healthcare partner. With openings available for tele-Health services, I am ready to extend care to those 12 and older. I bring 20 years of expertise including seven years of focused psychiatric medicine during which I have served diverse populations and specialize in tailoring medications to your unique symptoms. My commitment to my clients is unwavering. I believe in the importance of inclusivity and respect to all patient populations, regardless of gender, sexual orientation, and ethnicity.
I am currently seeing clients with Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar II, ADHD, OCD, Insomnia, and PTSD (and more).
Now taking Regence Blue Cross/Blue Shield! I am excited to have the opportunity to introduce myself as your potential healthcare partner. With openings available for tele-Health services, I am ready to extend care to those 12 and older. I bring 20 years of expertise including seven years of focused psychiatric medicine during which I have served diverse populations and specialize in tailoring medications to your unique symptoms. My commitment to my clients is unwavering. I believe in the importance of inclusivity and respect to all patient populations, regardless of gender, sexual orientation, and ethnicity.
(503) 850-2341 View (503) 850-2341
Photo of Davieca Singh - Ideal Mental Health and Wellness, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ideal Mental Health and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202
Hello, I'm Debbie, a mental health provider specializing in complex mental illness and personal issues. My mission is to equip you with the tools and resources necessary to regain control of your well-being. Together, we'll work towards empowering you to actively manage your mental health and achieve a happier, healthier life. My focus is on providing dedicated support to individuals navigating a wide range of mental health conditions and symptoms, such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, PTSD, autism, medication management, and ADHD, and I specialize in women's health.
Hello, I'm Debbie, a mental health provider specializing in complex mental illness and personal issues. My mission is to equip you with the tools and resources necessary to regain control of your well-being. Together, we'll work towards empowering you to actively manage your mental health and achieve a happier, healthier life. My focus is on providing dedicated support to individuals navigating a wide range of mental health conditions and symptoms, such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, PTSD, autism, medication management, and ADHD, and I specialize in women's health.
(971) 308-4036 View (971) 308-4036
Photo of Jeremy Flagel, MD, ABIHM, IFMCP, Psychiatrist
Jeremy Flagel
Psychiatrist, MD, ABIHM, IFMCP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202
What we call depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, dementia and schizophrenia involve whole body processes.
Conventionally and holistically trained, I'm a psychiatrist also certified in Functional Medicine. Applying an integrative and functional approach to psychiatry provides a more complete model to treating chronic illness. We partner to evaluate how your unique biology, history, lifestyle and environment are contributing to disease. Taking a wider lens to view the systems involved in underlying disease we can focus on healing root causes, rather than just trying to cover up the symptoms. Seeking short term relief while planning long term recovery, together, we seek the right balance of body, mind and spirit.
What we call depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, dementia and schizophrenia involve whole body processes.
Conventionally and holistically trained, I'm a psychiatrist also certified in Functional Medicine. Applying an integrative and functional approach to psychiatry provides a more complete model to treating chronic illness. We partner to evaluate how your unique biology, history, lifestyle and environment are contributing to disease. Taking a wider lens to view the systems involved in underlying disease we can focus on healing root causes, rather than just trying to cover up the symptoms. Seeking short term relief while planning long term recovery, together, we seek the right balance of body, mind and spirit.
(619) 536-1566 View (619) 536-1566
Photo of Mary 'maria' Tobey - M Tobey Psychiatry LLC, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
M Tobey Psychiatry LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202  (Online Only)
My specialty is treating ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, Mania, Insomnia, and other brain disorders like Schizophrenia and Schizoaffective disorder.
My name is Mary, I go by "Maria". I have been working in mental health nursing for the past 9 years, and nursing in general for the past 23 years. My greatest joy is connecting with my patients at a human level and helping them realize the strengths within themselves to achieving a more calm and peaceful life. My style of engaging with patients is holistic. I believe in meeting the needs of the mind, the body and soul, for a more fulfilled existence. My clients can expect to feel more hopeful, understood, and empowered after a session with me.
My specialty is treating ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, Mania, Insomnia, and other brain disorders like Schizophrenia and Schizoaffective disorder.
My name is Mary, I go by "Maria". I have been working in mental health nursing for the past 9 years, and nursing in general for the past 23 years. My greatest joy is connecting with my patients at a human level and helping them realize the strengths within themselves to achieving a more calm and peaceful life. My style of engaging with patients is holistic. I believe in meeting the needs of the mind, the body and soul, for a more fulfilled existence. My clients can expect to feel more hopeful, understood, and empowered after a session with me.
(253) 364-7030 View (253) 364-7030
Photo of Heather Hemmeger, PharmD, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Heather Hemmeger
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PharmD, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202  (Online Only)
My clinical interests include women's mental health (including perinatal), OCD, Bipolar, chronic pain, college mental health and much more.
Do you struggle with depression, anxiety or other emotional distress? Are you feeling frustrated that things you've tried so far haven't worked? Lets work together to change that! As both a psychiatric nurse practitioner and former pharmacist, I strategically blend elements of both together to foster healing, restore mind-body balance, and inspire self-compassion. My therapeutic approach can be described as warm, collaborative, and grounded in evidence based research. 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.
My clinical interests include women's mental health (including perinatal), OCD, Bipolar, chronic pain, college mental health and much more.
Do you struggle with depression, anxiety or other emotional distress? Are you feeling frustrated that things you've tried so far haven't worked? Lets work together to change that! As both a psychiatric nurse practitioner and former pharmacist, I strategically blend elements of both together to foster healing, restore mind-body balance, and inspire self-compassion. My therapeutic approach can be described as warm, collaborative, and grounded in evidence based research. 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.
(971) 260-3492 View (971) 260-3492
Photo of Melinda Pilar Anello, PMHNP-B, PMH-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Melinda Pilar Anello
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202  (Online Only)
Melinda's unique training and experience may benefit individuals with mental health concerns related to premenstrual distress, perinatal mood and anxiety disorders ( bipolar, depression, PTSD), trauma, pregnancy loss, or abortion.
Melinda uses a person-centered, holistic approach that incorporates medication management, exercise, nutrition, and lifestyle modifications in conjunction with supportive psychotherapy . She feels strongly that each person’s mental health is influenced by their age, gender, sexual and gender identity, hormonal health, and reproductive history, and believes that healing must incorporate all of the things that make you, uniquely you. Most importantly, she believes that we all have the innate ability to heal.
Melinda's unique training and experience may benefit individuals with mental health concerns related to premenstrual distress, perinatal mood and anxiety disorders ( bipolar, depression, PTSD), trauma, pregnancy loss, or abortion.
Melinda uses a person-centered, holistic approach that incorporates medication management, exercise, nutrition, and lifestyle modifications in conjunction with supportive psychotherapy . She feels strongly that each person’s mental health is influenced by their age, gender, sexual and gender identity, hormonal health, and reproductive history, and believes that healing must incorporate all of the things that make you, uniquely you. Most importantly, she believes that we all have the innate ability to heal.
(503) 751-8663 View (503) 751-8663
Photo of Lynae Edmonds, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lynae Edmonds
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202
My experience includes working with conditions such as depression, anxiety, insomnia, bipolar, PTSD, psychosis, and substance use.
Currently Accepting New Patients! I am a board-certified Doctor of Nursing Practice, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (DNP, PMHNP-BC) located in Bend, Oregon. I have experience working with patients across the lifespan who suffer from a variety of mental health concerns. A majority of my experience as a DNP has been focused on medication management in addition to the use of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) for treatment-resistant depression.
My experience includes working with conditions such as depression, anxiety, insomnia, bipolar, PTSD, psychosis, and substance use.
Currently Accepting New Patients! I am a board-certified Doctor of Nursing Practice, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (DNP, PMHNP-BC) located in Bend, Oregon. I have experience working with patients across the lifespan who suffer from a variety of mental health concerns. A majority of my experience as a DNP has been focused on medication management in addition to the use of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) for treatment-resistant depression.
(458) 213-4989 View (458) 213-4989
Photo of Trae Stewart, PhD, MPH, MSN, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Trae Stewart
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, MPH, MSN, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202  (Online Only)
Accepting NEW patients! Make appointments directly at www.psychmatters.net Dr. Stewart is a Board Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with full prescriptive authority. He provides quality mental health care through assessment, diagnosis, and medication management via virtual appointments. Dr. Stewart focuses on medication management for adolescents and adults (13+ years old). He treats mental health disorders like anxiety, OCD, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, ADHD, and sleep disorders. Email us for quickest response at psychmatters (at) outlook.com
Accepting NEW patients! Make appointments directly at www.psychmatters.net Dr. Stewart is a Board Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with full prescriptive authority. He provides quality mental health care through assessment, diagnosis, and medication management via virtual appointments. Dr. Stewart focuses on medication management for adolescents and adults (13+ years old). He treats mental health disorders like anxiety, OCD, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, ADHD, and sleep disorders. Email us for quickest response at psychmatters (at) outlook.com
(503) 832-6847 View (503) 832-6847
Photo of Nichole Slykhous, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nichole Slykhous
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202
Nichole practices Integrative Psychiatry to help you identify and treat the underlying cause(s) and symptoms of depression, ADD/ADHD, anxiety, insomnia, mood disorders, brain fog, fatigue, and other contemporary mental health conditions. ​Integrative Psychiatry is a personalized approach to mental health that uses functional medicine and traditional psychiatry to identify and treat core imbalances which affect your brain, body, and life
Nichole practices Integrative Psychiatry to help you identify and treat the underlying cause(s) and symptoms of depression, ADD/ADHD, anxiety, insomnia, mood disorders, brain fog, fatigue, and other contemporary mental health conditions. ​Integrative Psychiatry is a personalized approach to mental health that uses functional medicine and traditional psychiatry to identify and treat core imbalances which affect your brain, body, and life
(971) 314-4643 View (971) 314-4643
Photo of Linda Bett - Healthcore Psychiatry, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Healthcore Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202  (Online Only)
Welcome to Healthcore Psychiatry Consultants! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I diagnose and provide medication management to adult individuals (ages 18-60). I specialize in Alcohol and Drug Addiction, ADHD, and Mood Disorders.
Welcome to Healthcore Psychiatry Consultants! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I diagnose and provide medication management to adult individuals (ages 18-60). I specialize in Alcohol and Drug Addiction, ADHD, and Mood Disorders.
(971) 274-5563 View (971) 274-5563
Photo of Dr. Dominique Wilson, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Dominique Wilson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202
Accepting new Clients! Are you questioning college, career transitions or life in general? Having difficulty concentrating? Feeling unmotivated or undesirable? Moody, stressed, or anxious all the time? Questioning identity or acceptance? Have you tried everything? Therapy, mindfulness, lifestyle changes, and still struggling? Entering treatment can be an intimidating process & making that first appointment can be one of our biggest hurdles. But by taking that first step to look for support, you are already making progress. Dr. Wilson, DNP is a certified Family & Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
Accepting new Clients! Are you questioning college, career transitions or life in general? Having difficulty concentrating? Feeling unmotivated or undesirable? Moody, stressed, or anxious all the time? Questioning identity or acceptance? Have you tried everything? Therapy, mindfulness, lifestyle changes, and still struggling? Entering treatment can be an intimidating process & making that first appointment can be one of our biggest hurdles. But by taking that first step to look for support, you are already making progress. Dr. Wilson, DNP is a certified Family & Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
(855) 704-2004 View (855) 704-2004
Photo of Dominique Sanders, PhD, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dominique Sanders
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202  (Online Only)
Do you find yourself feeling on edge with anxiety, stress, and worried sick no matter what you do? Anxiety leaves us feeling panicked, exhausted and disconnected. You’re someone who deeply wants to feel peace, relaxed, and safe but still find yourself feeling out of control and heart racing. You want to feel calm and have no idea how to get there. You are ready to feel like yourself again, grounded with no fear or panic. You are ready to feel at ease in public and embrace connection at work and in your relationships. Most of all, you are ready to be free from the burden of anxiety, causing depression- I want to help you get there.
Do you find yourself feeling on edge with anxiety, stress, and worried sick no matter what you do? Anxiety leaves us feeling panicked, exhausted and disconnected. You’re someone who deeply wants to feel peace, relaxed, and safe but still find yourself feeling out of control and heart racing. You want to feel calm and have no idea how to get there. You are ready to feel like yourself again, grounded with no fear or panic. You are ready to feel at ease in public and embrace connection at work and in your relationships. Most of all, you are ready to be free from the burden of anxiety, causing depression- I want to help you get there.
(323) 487-7038 View (323) 487-7038
Photo of Wendy Zamora, MSN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Wendy Zamora
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202
I believe that considering the whole person and integrating exercise, healthy diet habits and managing life circumstances are all important. I am appreciative of your interest in alternative treatments and will provide support for those as appropriate. I engage in supportive therapy techniques and will refer to a psychotherapist for those who would benefit.
I believe that considering the whole person and integrating exercise, healthy diet habits and managing life circumstances are all important. I am appreciative of your interest in alternative treatments and will provide support for those as appropriate. I engage in supportive therapy techniques and will refer to a psychotherapist for those who would benefit.
(503) 308-7538 View (503) 308-7538
Photo of Robert Hernandez, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Robert Hernandez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202
When treating patients, I consider the whole person, not just symptoms. I take into account other underlying medical conditions, medications, and physiological changes that may impact the effectiveness of a planned treatment. I consider these factors to determine your best treatment path. I have a developmental orientation toward understanding human behavior. I recognize that everyone is unique; and therefore, I will tailor your treatment plan to meet your needs. I also appreciate a collaborative approach, working with other providers to help facilitate the best treatment outcomes.
When treating patients, I consider the whole person, not just symptoms. I take into account other underlying medical conditions, medications, and physiological changes that may impact the effectiveness of a planned treatment. I consider these factors to determine your best treatment path. I have a developmental orientation toward understanding human behavior. I recognize that everyone is unique; and therefore, I will tailor your treatment plan to meet your needs. I also appreciate a collaborative approach, working with other providers to help facilitate the best treatment outcomes.
(503) 563-2731 View (503) 563-2731
Photo of Marguerite Maguire, MD, Psychiatrist
Marguerite Maguire
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202
I am a general adult psychiatrist, treating a wide variety of psychiatric illnesses with particular interests in depression, anxiety, maternal mental health, and ADHD. I earned my medical degree from the University of Rochester and completed my psychiatry residency at the University of Southern California/LAC+USC.
I am a general adult psychiatrist, treating a wide variety of psychiatric illnesses with particular interests in depression, anxiety, maternal mental health, and ADHD. I earned my medical degree from the University of Rochester and completed my psychiatry residency at the University of Southern California/LAC+USC.
(424) 383-5047 View (424) 383-5047
Photo of Megan Vandell, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Megan Vandell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202
Megan is a board certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner specializing in patients struggling with dual diagnosis (mental health and addictions), PTSD, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders. Focused on patient-centered care and optimizing medication regimen, my goal in treatment is to use the fewest medications at the lowest doses possible to robustly support mood and wellness. I offer a calm, understanding environment during our sessions. Seeking help with mental health is a challenge, and I strive to make it an easy process for my patients.
Megan is a board certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner specializing in patients struggling with dual diagnosis (mental health and addictions), PTSD, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders. Focused on patient-centered care and optimizing medication regimen, my goal in treatment is to use the fewest medications at the lowest doses possible to robustly support mood and wellness. I offer a calm, understanding environment during our sessions. Seeking help with mental health is a challenge, and I strive to make it an easy process for my patients.
(503) 738-1346 View (503) 738-1346
Lynnette McLagan
Physician Assistant, PA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202
My practice has been guided by a singular passion: to provide personalized, evidence-based care that addresses the unique needs of each individual. Whether you're a teenager grappling with identity and societal pressures, an adult navigating the demands of work and relationships, or a parent seeking guidance for your child's emotional well-being, I'm here to support you. My holistic approach considers not just symptoms, but also the underlying factors that shape mental health, fostering lasting healing. I offer psychiatric evaluation and diagnosis: through thorough assessments, I can provide accurate diagnoses and personalized treat
My practice has been guided by a singular passion: to provide personalized, evidence-based care that addresses the unique needs of each individual. Whether you're a teenager grappling with identity and societal pressures, an adult navigating the demands of work and relationships, or a parent seeking guidance for your child's emotional well-being, I'm here to support you. My holistic approach considers not just symptoms, but also the underlying factors that shape mental health, fostering lasting healing. I offer psychiatric evaluation and diagnosis: through thorough assessments, I can provide accurate diagnoses and personalized treat
(971) 299-8777 View (971) 299-8777
Photo of Dr. Katharine Frissora, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Katharine Frissora
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202  (Online Only)
I am a doctorally prepared Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with 15 years of healthcare experience providing psychiatric care. I aim to promote holistic mental health by partnering with you to create healing and wellness.
I am a doctorally prepared Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with 15 years of healthcare experience providing psychiatric care. I aim to promote holistic mental health by partnering with you to create healing and wellness.
(971) 202-1122 View (971) 202-1122
1
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.