Photo of Debbie Singh PMHNP / Ideal Mental Health , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in 98101, WA
Debbie Singh PMHNP / Ideal Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98101
Accepting new clients: I specialize in treating adults and children with a wide range of mental health conditions, including Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, PTSD, Autism Medication Management, ADHD, ODD, and Learning Disabilities. If you're feeling overwhelmed, tired, irritable, struggling with daily tasks, experiencing poor concentration, sadness, anxiety, frequent mood swings, or anger issues, it's crucial not to let these symptoms define you. Seek help today, as many of these symptoms may be linked to your mental health and are often treatable. To schedule a free 15 consult visit our website.
Accepting new clients: I specialize in treating adults and children with a wide range of mental health conditions, including Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, PTSD, Autism Medication Management, ADHD, ODD, and Learning Disabilities. If you're feeling overwhelmed, tired, irritable, struggling with daily tasks, experiencing poor concentration, sadness, anxiety, frequent mood swings, or anger issues, it's crucial not to let these symptoms define you. Seek help today, as many of these symptoms may be linked to your mental health and are often treatable. To schedule a free 15 consult visit our website.
(206) 558-0121 View (206) 558-0121
Photo of Eikon Psychiatry, PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in 98101, WA
Eikon Psychiatry, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98101  (Online Only)
In my role as PMHNP-BC, I am trained in the treatment of psychiatric illness of individuals across the lifespan (age 6-65), especially those with adjustment disorders, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), eating disorders, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), psychotic disorders, bipolar disorders and trauma-related disorders. I have practiced with diverse populations across a variety of settings including: Consult-Liaison Psychiatry Service, Eating disorder, School-Based Psychiatry Program and Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatry Outpatient settings.
In my role as PMHNP-BC, I am trained in the treatment of psychiatric illness of individuals across the lifespan (age 6-65), especially those with adjustment disorders, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), eating disorders, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), psychotic disorders, bipolar disorders and trauma-related disorders. I have practiced with diverse populations across a variety of settings including: Consult-Liaison Psychiatry Service, Eating disorder, School-Based Psychiatry Program and Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatry Outpatient settings.
(253) 487-0401 View (253) 487-0401
Photo of Dr. Ronil Shah, Psychiatrist in 98101, WA
Dr. Ronil Shah
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98101
Dr. Shah is welcoming new patients for video appointments. As a Board-certified M.D. psychiatrist, he specializes in assessing and treating anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, PTSD and other psychiatric issues. A holistic provider, he combines non-pharmacologic approaches - including psychodynamic psychotherapy and cognitive behavioral therapy - in addition to medication. He utilizes such therapeutic modalities in medication management appointments as well as dedicated therapy sessions. Consequently, patients benefit from well-integrated treatment that is both systematic and thorough.
Dr. Shah is welcoming new patients for video appointments. As a Board-certified M.D. psychiatrist, he specializes in assessing and treating anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, PTSD and other psychiatric issues. A holistic provider, he combines non-pharmacologic approaches - including psychodynamic psychotherapy and cognitive behavioral therapy - in addition to medication. He utilizes such therapeutic modalities in medication management appointments as well as dedicated therapy sessions. Consequently, patients benefit from well-integrated treatment that is both systematic and thorough.
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Photo of Ideal Mental Health and Wellness - Debbie Singh , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in 98101, WA
Ideal Mental Health and Wellness - Debbie Singh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, FNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98101
Taking New Clients - Working with adults and children who have a variety of mental health conditions and symptoms, including Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, PTSD, Autism, ODD, and poor concentration. I look forward to helping you on your journey to wellness. My name is Debbie Singh, FNP, PMHNP-BC. Are you feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, irritable, unable to keep up with daily tasks, have poor concentration, feeling sad and anxious, are you experiencing frequent mood swings and anger? Don't let these symptoms define you; get help; often, these symptoms may be related to your mental health in many cases.
Taking New Clients - Working with adults and children who have a variety of mental health conditions and symptoms, including Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, PTSD, Autism, ODD, and poor concentration. I look forward to helping you on your journey to wellness. My name is Debbie Singh, FNP, PMHNP-BC. Are you feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, irritable, unable to keep up with daily tasks, have poor concentration, feeling sad and anxious, are you experiencing frequent mood swings and anger? Don't let these symptoms define you; get help; often, these symptoms may be related to your mental health in many cases.
(206) 278-4533 View (206) 278-4533
Photo of Dianna Smith, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in 98101, WA
Dianna Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC, ARNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98101  (Online Only)
Hi, are you ready to feel better sooner? I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner currently seeing patients virtually in IL, WA, OR, and NC with BlueSky Telepsych. We specialize in PTSD, Depression, Trauma, Bipolar Disorder, OCD, Anxiety, Anger Management, Panic Disorders, Schizophrenia, Mood Disorders, Psychotic Disorders, Grief, Bereavement, ADHD, Psychotherapy, Medication Management, Personality Disorders, and More. Book an appointment today and feel better sooner.
Hi, are you ready to feel better sooner? I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner currently seeing patients virtually in IL, WA, OR, and NC with BlueSky Telepsych. We specialize in PTSD, Depression, Trauma, Bipolar Disorder, OCD, Anxiety, Anger Management, Panic Disorders, Schizophrenia, Mood Disorders, Psychotic Disorders, Grief, Bereavement, ADHD, Psychotherapy, Medication Management, Personality Disorders, and More. Book an appointment today and feel better sooner.
(630) 755-3480 View (630) 755-3480
Photo of Advanced Wellness Mental Health, PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in 98101, WA
Advanced Wellness Mental Health, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN/Ed, MSN, ARNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98101  (Online Only)
We specialize in treating depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, OCD, ADHD/ADD, sleep and more.
We are currently accepting patients via telehealth. Online appointments are conducted from the comfort of your home or private work space, using secure video chat technology. We have two board certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners, Chandra Cogburn and Shanti Herzog. We provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, and psychiatric medication management treatment. Medication appointments are typically accompanied by brief counseling where we focus on achieving your overall health goals. We encourage people to also have a primary talk therapist for more comprehensive therapy. We see ages 5 and above to adult.
We specialize in treating depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, OCD, ADHD/ADD, sleep and more.
We are currently accepting patients via telehealth. Online appointments are conducted from the comfort of your home or private work space, using secure video chat technology. We have two board certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners, Chandra Cogburn and Shanti Herzog. We provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, and psychiatric medication management treatment. Medication appointments are typically accompanied by brief counseling where we focus on achieving your overall health goals. We encourage people to also have a primary talk therapist for more comprehensive therapy. We see ages 5 and above to adult.
(425) 310-4239 View (425) 310-4239
Photo of Carmen Samson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in 98101, WA
Carmen Samson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98101
Suppose you are feeling sad and anxious, with mood swings, insomnia, and poor motivation, or diagnosed with PTSD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, or schizoaffective disorder.
Mental health should not be a taboo subject or a rushed intervention. Each person responds differently to life events. There should be no shame or stigma in sharing feelings and looking for help. I am here to help you find your balance and the correct treatment to regain yourself and succeed in life. I strive to offer excellent and individualized treatment (including medications and therapy), because each client is a unique individual who deserves understanding and is treated with dignity and respect.
Suppose you are feeling sad and anxious, with mood swings, insomnia, and poor motivation, or diagnosed with PTSD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, or schizoaffective disorder.
Mental health should not be a taboo subject or a rushed intervention. Each person responds differently to life events. There should be no shame or stigma in sharing feelings and looking for help. I am here to help you find your balance and the correct treatment to regain yourself and succeed in life. I strive to offer excellent and individualized treatment (including medications and therapy), because each client is a unique individual who deserves understanding and is treated with dignity and respect.
(425) 215-1855 View (425) 215-1855
Outpatient Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, DNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98101
We treat most psychiatric disorders and provide both medication management and brief psychotherapy. We offer evidence-based treatment for various conditions, including depression, anxiety, stress, bipolar, and ADHD. We also believe psychotherapy and lifestyle changes are essential parts of mental well-being to achieve long-term recovery. We are experienced and trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Strength-Based Therapy.
We treat most psychiatric disorders and provide both medication management and brief psychotherapy. We offer evidence-based treatment for various conditions, including depression, anxiety, stress, bipolar, and ADHD. We also believe psychotherapy and lifestyle changes are essential parts of mental well-being to achieve long-term recovery. We are experienced and trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Strength-Based Therapy.
(206) 944-5055 View (206) 944-5055
Photo of Bernard Chessum, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in 98101, WA
Bernard Chessum
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98101
My practice focuses on medication management for ADD/ADHD, Depressive diosrders, Anxiety disorders, Panic disorders, Sleep disorders, OCD, PTSD, Thought disorder, Bipolar disorder, and much more.
I am accepting NEW clients with same day appointments available. Also after-hours and weekends appointments available as well. In network with most major insurances in Washington State. Private pay rates made affordable. I value meeting my clients at any level they are without making them feel judged. During the initial session, i focus on patient-centered strategies and come up with a treatment plan that best suits your needs. The goal is to develop the best therapeutic relationship possible to ease any stress related to having appointments. Most treatment plan involves medication, therapy, or a combination of both.
My practice focuses on medication management for ADD/ADHD, Depressive diosrders, Anxiety disorders, Panic disorders, Sleep disorders, OCD, PTSD, Thought disorder, Bipolar disorder, and much more.
I am accepting NEW clients with same day appointments available. Also after-hours and weekends appointments available as well. In network with most major insurances in Washington State. Private pay rates made affordable. I value meeting my clients at any level they are without making them feel judged. During the initial session, i focus on patient-centered strategies and come up with a treatment plan that best suits your needs. The goal is to develop the best therapeutic relationship possible to ease any stress related to having appointments. Most treatment plan involves medication, therapy, or a combination of both.
(253) 528-8235 View (253) 528-8235
Photo of Gemy George, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in 98101, WA
Gemy George
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98101  (Online Only)
My clinical expertise includes the diagnosis and management of a wide range of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and PTSD.
Not currently accepting new patients I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and received a Doctorate in Nursing Practice from the University of Washington. I have been in practice for almost 10 years. As a psychiatric provider, I offer, psychiatric evaluations, medication management and brief therapy support. I have a deep understanding of the complex interplay between mental and physical health and am committed to providing evidence based holistic care to patients. I provide patient-centered care and work closely with patients to develop treatment plans that meet their unique needs and goals.
My clinical expertise includes the diagnosis and management of a wide range of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and PTSD.
Not currently accepting new patients I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and received a Doctorate in Nursing Practice from the University of Washington. I have been in practice for almost 10 years. As a psychiatric provider, I offer, psychiatric evaluations, medication management and brief therapy support. I have a deep understanding of the complex interplay between mental and physical health and am committed to providing evidence based holistic care to patients. I provide patient-centered care and work closely with patients to develop treatment plans that meet their unique needs and goals.
(425) 475-2986 View (425) 475-2986
Photo of VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in 98101, WA
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98101  (Online Only)
We are board-certified to treat Children and Adults. Accepting new patients via telehealth visits in Washington state for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website. Evening and weekend hours are available. Affordable rates. Also accepting some insurance plans.
We are board-certified to treat Children and Adults. Accepting new patients via telehealth visits in Washington state for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website. Evening and weekend hours are available. Affordable rates. Also accepting some insurance plans.
(206) 590-7417 View (206) 590-7417
Photo of Complete Health Clinic, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in 98101, WA
Complete Health Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98101  (Online Only)
Complete Health clinics mission is to provide excellent Medical and Psychiatric care to patients and family. Our goal is to provide quality care to ​multiple communities and States. We offer onsite and telepsychiatry options to fit your needs. We are a multispecialty clinic that acts as a one stop point so that you can reserve time and energy for other important things that matters. We are committed to continuously educating ourselves and incorporating the best of technology to provide excellent care to our patients.
Complete Health clinics mission is to provide excellent Medical and Psychiatric care to patients and family. Our goal is to provide quality care to ​multiple communities and States. We offer onsite and telepsychiatry options to fit your needs. We are a multispecialty clinic that acts as a one stop point so that you can reserve time and energy for other important things that matters. We are committed to continuously educating ourselves and incorporating the best of technology to provide excellent care to our patients.
(562) 503-4547 View (562) 503-4547
Photo of Eliza Brink, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in 98101, WA
Eliza Brink
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98101
My first goal in treatment is to get to know my clients and understand their story. As a trained and experienced nurse practitioner, I provide comprehensive psychiatric assessments, diagnose and prescribe medication to both children and adults.
My first goal in treatment is to get to know my clients and understand their story. As a trained and experienced nurse practitioner, I provide comprehensive psychiatric assessments, diagnose and prescribe medication to both children and adults.
(206) 451-1909 View (206) 451-1909
Photo of Wadsworth Psychiatric Services PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in 98101, WA
Wadsworth Psychiatric Services PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, JD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98101
Accepting new patients with appointments available in the same week. Treatment for children and adults with various conditions. Conditions treated but not limited to are: Depression, Anxiety, ADHD (children and adults), Mood Disorders, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, Eating Disorders, Schizophrenia, Suboxone Treatment for Opioid Dependence, and Dementia.
Accepting new patients with appointments available in the same week. Treatment for children and adults with various conditions. Conditions treated but not limited to are: Depression, Anxiety, ADHD (children and adults), Mood Disorders, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, Eating Disorders, Schizophrenia, Suboxone Treatment for Opioid Dependence, and Dementia.
(425) 230-4447 View (425) 230-4447
Photo of Michael D. Ward, Psychiatrist in 98101, WA
Michael D. Ward
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98101
I am a board-certified Psychiatrist with broad experience who treats adults with mental and emotional problems and difficulty coping with life stressors. I provide evidence-based treatments using medication management and/or psychotherapy tailored to my patient's needs in a safe environment with sensitivity and confidentiality. My goal is not to just treat the symptoms, but also to accurately diagnose and treat the underlying problem in order to improve functioning and quality of life.
I am a board-certified Psychiatrist with broad experience who treats adults with mental and emotional problems and difficulty coping with life stressors. I provide evidence-based treatments using medication management and/or psychotherapy tailored to my patient's needs in a safe environment with sensitivity and confidentiality. My goal is not to just treat the symptoms, but also to accurately diagnose and treat the underlying problem in order to improve functioning and quality of life.
(206) 590-4207 View (206) 590-4207
Photo of Sarah A Pullen, Psychiatrist in 98101, WA
Sarah A Pullen
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98101  (Online Only)
“A tree that is unbending is easily broken.” Lao Tzu (Tao Te Ching). One of Aesop’s fables, “The Oak and the Reeds,” reflects this same idea- that a rigid oak will break in a major storm whereas the flexible reeds live on. We cannot avoid life’s storms, yet we can find ways to weather them and perhaps come out the other side a bit stronger. I believe that the key to this is resilience. It is the ability to spring back from adversity. To face the winds of life while also being strong in one’s core and true to one’s value. And after the storm, to stand up straight and tall, unbroken. My goal is to help you build your resilience.
“A tree that is unbending is easily broken.” Lao Tzu (Tao Te Ching). One of Aesop’s fables, “The Oak and the Reeds,” reflects this same idea- that a rigid oak will break in a major storm whereas the flexible reeds live on. We cannot avoid life’s storms, yet we can find ways to weather them and perhaps come out the other side a bit stronger. I believe that the key to this is resilience. It is the ability to spring back from adversity. To face the winds of life while also being strong in one’s core and true to one’s value. And after the storm, to stand up straight and tall, unbroken. My goal is to help you build your resilience.
(206) 659-1018 View (206) 659-1018
Photo of Daniel Bristow, Psychiatrist in 98101, WA
Daniel Bristow
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98101  (Online Only)
Finding good treatment for mental health and addictions that is personalized to you can be life-saving. My practice delivers that treatment directly to you using secure video telehealth. I specialize in combined talk therapy and medication management (including addictions treatment) in 45-50 minute sessions that address your individual mental health and addiction issues. Getting talk therapy, mental health, and addictions treatment through the same physician can save you time and be more effective. I am currently accepting new clients and offer medication-assisted treatment for alcohol and opioid use disorders.
Finding good treatment for mental health and addictions that is personalized to you can be life-saving. My practice delivers that treatment directly to you using secure video telehealth. I specialize in combined talk therapy and medication management (including addictions treatment) in 45-50 minute sessions that address your individual mental health and addiction issues. Getting talk therapy, mental health, and addictions treatment through the same physician can save you time and be more effective. I am currently accepting new clients and offer medication-assisted treatment for alcohol and opioid use disorders.
(503) 549-4470 View (503) 549-4470
Photo of Ashley Cyronak, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in 98101, WA
Ashley Cyronak
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98101  (Online Only)
Our mission is to enhance wellness and motivate self-improvement by strengthening minds. We offer high quality health care for patients seeking a trustworthy long-term psychiatric provider who can provide medication management and supportive counseling. The providers at Carative Psychiatry (CP) provide care to their patients using medical and mental health care models in order to treat the whole individual. The providers at CP are passionate about serving the community and helping others achieve their goals by using the Carative theory. Telepsychiatry practice serving Washington.
Our mission is to enhance wellness and motivate self-improvement by strengthening minds. We offer high quality health care for patients seeking a trustworthy long-term psychiatric provider who can provide medication management and supportive counseling. The providers at Carative Psychiatry (CP) provide care to their patients using medical and mental health care models in order to treat the whole individual. The providers at CP are passionate about serving the community and helping others achieve their goals by using the Carative theory. Telepsychiatry practice serving Washington.
(509) 738-1922 View (509) 738-1922
Photo of Dr. Rodolfo Aguilar, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in 98101, WA
Dr. Rodolfo Aguilar
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, MSN, PMHNPBC, APRN
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98101  (Online Only)
Fully licensed in AZ, CO, FL, HI, NM, IL, OR, & WA. GO TO: growtherapy.com/provider/a8dr11m4etff/aguilar My ideal clients seek to clarify how psychiatric medications may or may not help improve their quality of life. We team up to achieve this common goal. I share accurate, updated, evidence-based information to manage experienced symptoms. We don't believe in magic pills but we know pills can help. My ideal clients seek wellness, not just repair sickness, and are ready to sustain lifestyle changes and healthy habits.
Fully licensed in AZ, CO, FL, HI, NM, IL, OR, & WA. GO TO: growtherapy.com/provider/a8dr11m4etff/aguilar My ideal clients seek to clarify how psychiatric medications may or may not help improve their quality of life. We team up to achieve this common goal. I share accurate, updated, evidence-based information to manage experienced symptoms. We don't believe in magic pills but we know pills can help. My ideal clients seek wellness, not just repair sickness, and are ready to sustain lifestyle changes and healthy habits.
(480) 999-6179 View (480) 999-6179
Photo of Ginny Weston, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in 98101, WA
Ginny Weston
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, MSN, LPCC, PMHNP, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98101  (Online Only)
Accepting new patients as of 10/11/2023. Please contact the office directly by calling the number listed. Ms. Weston is a board-certified lifespan Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in all ages, including children and adolescents, the LGBTQ+ population, as well as prenatal/postnatal mental healthcare. She also specializes in telehealth having been online since 2018. She currently offers medication management in Oregon (self pay and insurance) and Washington (self pay only at this time). Will be expanding to Alaska.
Accepting new patients as of 10/11/2023. Please contact the office directly by calling the number listed. Ms. Weston is a board-certified lifespan Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in all ages, including children and adolescents, the LGBTQ+ population, as well as prenatal/postnatal mental healthcare. She also specializes in telehealth having been online since 2018. She currently offers medication management in Oregon (self pay and insurance) and Washington (self pay only at this time). Will be expanding to Alaska.
(971) 444-7296 View (971) 444-7296
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.