Photo of KMG Psychiatry (Dr. Ankur Bindal), Psychiatrist in Chula Vista, CA
KMG Psychiatry (Dr. Ankur Bindal)
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH, FAPA, FAASM
Verified Verified
Chula Vista, CA 91910  (Online Only)
KMG Psychiatry uses a combination of traditional and innovative treatments to target a wide range of conditions, including anxiety and depression, bipolar disorder, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and sleep disorders.
KMG Psychiatry is an integrative psychiatry practice delivering high-quality, comprehensive care to the communities of San-Diego County, with a multi-faceted approach, striving to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths, creating an individualized treatment plan for every patient, using a combination of traditional and innovative treatments. We offer medication management, psychotherapy and state of the art Neurostar Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS).
KMG Psychiatry uses a combination of traditional and innovative treatments to target a wide range of conditions, including anxiety and depression, bipolar disorder, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and sleep disorders.
KMG Psychiatry is an integrative psychiatry practice delivering high-quality, comprehensive care to the communities of San-Diego County, with a multi-faceted approach, striving to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths, creating an individualized treatment plan for every patient, using a combination of traditional and innovative treatments. We offer medication management, psychotherapy and state of the art Neurostar Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS).
(619) 393-3114 View (619) 393-3114

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Adarezza Ferrer, Psychiatrist in Chula Vista, CA
Dr. Adarezza Ferrer
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92101
I am a board-certified psychiatrist committed to providing compassionate mental health care. I have extensive experience working with young and older adult populations, treating mood disorders and behavioral problems. Common conditions I work with include anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
I am a board-certified psychiatrist committed to providing compassionate mental health care. I have extensive experience working with young and older adult populations, treating mood disorders and behavioral problems. Common conditions I work with include anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
(760) 274-8206 View (760) 274-8206
Photo of Dr. Robert Loman, Psychiatrist in Chula Vista, CA
Dr. Robert Loman
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92101  (Online Only)
How you feel matters. The approach used by Dr. Loman utilizes the biological, psychological, and social influences in treatment approach. Dr. Loman has over 10 years of experience in treating various mental health conditions. Conditions treated include: Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, OCD, Bipolar disorder, Schizoaffective Disorder, Personality Disorders, Somatic disorders, Substance Disorders, and Sleep Disorders.
How you feel matters. The approach used by Dr. Loman utilizes the biological, psychological, and social influences in treatment approach. Dr. Loman has over 10 years of experience in treating various mental health conditions. Conditions treated include: Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, OCD, Bipolar disorder, Schizoaffective Disorder, Personality Disorders, Somatic disorders, Substance Disorders, and Sleep Disorders.
(707) 306-8596 View (707) 306-8596
Photo of Vincent David Feitosa, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Chula Vista, CA
Vincent David Feitosa
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92154  (Online Only)
Greetings to new patients! We are thrilled to extend a warm welcome to individuals from all walks of life, with a special emphasis on those navigating challenges such as anxiety, depression, insomnia, bipolar, schizoaffective disorder, dual diagnosis, ADHD, and LGBTQI+ concerns. As a seasoned Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Board Certified, I bring a wealth of experience, particularly in working with the chronically mentally ill. In our welcoming and nonjudgmental environment, our focus is on providing more than just medication support; we aim to instill hope, relief, and quality of life. Discover a Path to Wellness with Us!
Greetings to new patients! We are thrilled to extend a warm welcome to individuals from all walks of life, with a special emphasis on those navigating challenges such as anxiety, depression, insomnia, bipolar, schizoaffective disorder, dual diagnosis, ADHD, and LGBTQI+ concerns. As a seasoned Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Board Certified, I bring a wealth of experience, particularly in working with the chronically mentally ill. In our welcoming and nonjudgmental environment, our focus is on providing more than just medication support; we aim to instill hope, relief, and quality of life. Discover a Path to Wellness with Us!
(858) 879-6097 View (858) 879-6097
Photo of Megan Gotiangco, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Chula Vista, CA
Megan Gotiangco
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92117
Dr. Megan Gotiangco is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in California who has been practicing since 2019. She has a Doctoral degree in Psychiatric Nursing Practice from Oregon Health & Science University and a Bachelor in Nursing Science from the University of Pittsburgh. Dr. Gotiangco has experience working with a wide range of mental health disorders in various settings, including inpatient, outpatient, and emergency care. She is able to provide diagnostic clarity for patients initially seeking care and medication management supported by the latest research in the medical field.
Dr. Megan Gotiangco is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in California who has been practicing since 2019. She has a Doctoral degree in Psychiatric Nursing Practice from Oregon Health & Science University and a Bachelor in Nursing Science from the University of Pittsburgh. Dr. Gotiangco has experience working with a wide range of mental health disorders in various settings, including inpatient, outpatient, and emergency care. She is able to provide diagnostic clarity for patients initially seeking care and medication management supported by the latest research in the medical field.
(858) 463-6790 View (858) 463-6790
Photo of Mind Thrive Health , Psychiatrist in Chula Vista, CA
Mind Thrive Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92102  (Online Only)
Mind Thrive health offers Virtual mental health group therapy. Individual therapy and medication management.
Mind Thrive health offers Virtual mental health group therapy. Individual therapy and medication management.
(949) 894-4630 View (949) 894-4630
Photo of Telepsychiatrist_Piedmont Behavioral Services, Psychiatrist in Chula Vista, CA
Telepsychiatrist_Piedmont Behavioral Services
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92101
We provide Child and Adult Psychiatry, Therapy and Substance abuse via video for clients across California. Our Board Certified Psychiatrists and Therapists are available to help everyday and we can offer same day appointments. Telepsychiatry or Telemedicine uses video link (via computer or smartphone) to offer appointments from home or outside clinic. It offers the option to see a psychiatrist from home. Please use our website or below link to make an appointment. https://piedmontbs.com/telepsychiatry/
We provide Child and Adult Psychiatry, Therapy and Substance abuse via video for clients across California. Our Board Certified Psychiatrists and Therapists are available to help everyday and we can offer same day appointments. Telepsychiatry or Telemedicine uses video link (via computer or smartphone) to offer appointments from home or outside clinic. It offers the option to see a psychiatrist from home. Please use our website or below link to make an appointment. https://piedmontbs.com/telepsychiatry/
(984) 203-9516 View (984) 203-9516
Photo of Vincent Feitosa, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Chula Vista, CA
Vincent Feitosa
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92115
Vincent Feitosa is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in California who has been practicing since 2021. He has a Master of Science in Family Nurse Practitioner, a Nursing Science RN BSN, and a Bachelor of Science, Healthcare Management. Vincent can help a client by assessing and diagnosing mental health conditions, prescribing medication when appropriate, providing therapy or counseling, and offering support in managing and coping with emotional challenges.
Vincent Feitosa is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in California who has been practicing since 2021. He has a Master of Science in Family Nurse Practitioner, a Nursing Science RN BSN, and a Bachelor of Science, Healthcare Management. Vincent can help a client by assessing and diagnosing mental health conditions, prescribing medication when appropriate, providing therapy or counseling, and offering support in managing and coping with emotional challenges.
(619) 257-4264 View (619) 257-4264
Photo of Patrick Sassoon, Psychiatrist in Chula Vista, CA
Patrick Sassoon
Psychiatrist, MD, MS
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92101
My approach is based on integrative psychiatry, which uses medications, therapy and complementary medicine to treat the whole person, not just the symptoms. I address the combined impact of sleep, lifestyle, relationships, nutrition and chronic medical conditions on well-being, and use cutting edge tools like genetic testing to guide personalized treatment with medication and supplements. I consider the patient’s cultural background in my assessments and I can provide treatment in Spanish, Portuguese, French and Italian. My goal is to help my patients create lasting changes and build vitality, resilience and purpose in life.
My approach is based on integrative psychiatry, which uses medications, therapy and complementary medicine to treat the whole person, not just the symptoms. I address the combined impact of sleep, lifestyle, relationships, nutrition and chronic medical conditions on well-being, and use cutting edge tools like genetic testing to guide personalized treatment with medication and supplements. I consider the patient’s cultural background in my assessments and I can provide treatment in Spanish, Portuguese, French and Italian. My goal is to help my patients create lasting changes and build vitality, resilience and purpose in life.
(562) 210-0085 View (562) 210-0085
Photo of Telepsychiatrist Piedmont Behavioral Services, Psychiatrist in Chula Vista, CA
Telepsychiatrist Piedmont Behavioral Services
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92105
We provide Child and Adult Psychiatry, Therapy and Substance abuse clients via video across Florida. Our Board Certified Psychiatrists and Therapists are available to help everyday and we can offer same day appointments. Telepsychiatry or Telemedicine uses video link (via computer or smartphone) to offer appointments from home or outside clinic. It offers the option to see a psychiatrist any time as long as you have access to your smart phone or computer.
We provide Child and Adult Psychiatry, Therapy and Substance abuse clients via video across Florida. Our Board Certified Psychiatrists and Therapists are available to help everyday and we can offer same day appointments. Telepsychiatry or Telemedicine uses video link (via computer or smartphone) to offer appointments from home or outside clinic. It offers the option to see a psychiatrist any time as long as you have access to your smart phone or computer.
(828) 575-5095 View (828) 575-5095

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Mottsin Thomas, Psychiatrist in Chula Vista, CA
Mottsin Thomas
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Orange, CA 92868  (Online Only)
Exclusively focused on mental health issues, Bonmente treats a myriad of psychiatric conditions including anxiety, depression, ADHD, sleep disorders, postpartum depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, panic attacks, and OCD.
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS-Bonmente knows asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be.
Exclusively focused on mental health issues, Bonmente treats a myriad of psychiatric conditions including anxiety, depression, ADHD, sleep disorders, postpartum depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, panic attacks, and OCD.
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS-Bonmente knows asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be.
(657) 256-5949 View (657) 256-5949
Photo of Rachel Jumonville, Physician Assistant in Chula Vista, CA
Rachel Jumonville
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Redlands, CA 92373  (Online Only)
Exclusively focused on mental health issues, Bonmente treats a myriad of psychiatric conditions including anxiety, depression, ADHD, sleep disorders, postpartum depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, panic attacks, OCD, and gender dysphoria.
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now welcoming new patients!
Exclusively focused on mental health issues, Bonmente treats a myriad of psychiatric conditions including anxiety, depression, ADHD, sleep disorders, postpartum depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, panic attacks, OCD, and gender dysphoria.
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now welcoming new patients!
(909) 639-1722 View (909) 639-1722
Photo of Mottsin Thomas, Psychiatrist in Chula Vista, CA
Mottsin Thomas
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688  (Online Only)
Exclusively focused on mental health issues, Bonmente treats a myriad of psychiatric conditions including anxiety, depression, ADHD, sleep disorders, postpartum depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, panic attacks, OCD, and gender dysphoria.
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS-Bonmente knows asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be.
Exclusively focused on mental health issues, Bonmente treats a myriad of psychiatric conditions including anxiety, depression, ADHD, sleep disorders, postpartum depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, panic attacks, OCD, and gender dysphoria.
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS-Bonmente knows asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be.
(951) 261-8669 View (951) 261-8669
Photo of Light Care Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Chula Vista, CA
Light Care Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Orange, CA 92868
Chika is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner from Fresno Ca, who works with children and adults and provides care for patients who struggle with anxiety, depression, bipolar, sleep difficulties etc. Chika has experience with medication management and use of psychotherapy and has been a board certified PMHNP for over 2 years. Chika’s treatment approach is rooted in evidence based practice utilizing medication and psychotherapy. Chika studied at Walden University, where she obtained a Masters in Nursing science. She has also worked as an RN for more than 8 years which has been helpful in providing care
Chika is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner from Fresno Ca, who works with children and adults and provides care for patients who struggle with anxiety, depression, bipolar, sleep difficulties etc. Chika has experience with medication management and use of psychotherapy and has been a board certified PMHNP for over 2 years. Chika’s treatment approach is rooted in evidence based practice utilizing medication and psychotherapy. Chika studied at Walden University, where she obtained a Masters in Nursing science. She has also worked as an RN for more than 8 years which has been helpful in providing care
(559) 423-7076 View (559) 423-7076
Photo of Riz Ahmad, Psychiatrist in Chula Vista, CA
Riz Ahmad
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Orange, CA 92868  (Online Only)
Exclusively focused on mental health issues, Bonmente treats a myriad of psychiatric conditions including anxiety, depression, ADHD, sleep disorders, postpartum depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, panic attacks, and OCD.
Bonmente knows asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be.
Exclusively focused on mental health issues, Bonmente treats a myriad of psychiatric conditions including anxiety, depression, ADHD, sleep disorders, postpartum depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, panic attacks, and OCD.
Bonmente knows asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be.
(657) 325-8756 View (657) 325-8756
Photo of Helene Morel, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Chula Vista, CA
Helene Morel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Orange, CA 92868  (Online Only)
Asking for help is not easy, and finding a provider you trust to help you with mental health care can be a challenge. You don't need to suffer alone. I am here to help you and to provide confidential tele-psychiatry services for medication management and/or psychotherapy in the state of California allowing you to receive psychiatric treatment in the privacy and comfort of your home or work.
Asking for help is not easy, and finding a provider you trust to help you with mental health care can be a challenge. You don't need to suffer alone. I am here to help you and to provide confidential tele-psychiatry services for medication management and/or psychotherapy in the state of California allowing you to receive psychiatric treatment in the privacy and comfort of your home or work.
(949) 996-0157 View (949) 996-0157
Photo of Lauren Sarah Debski, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Chula Vista, CA
Lauren Sarah Debski
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
San Marcos, CA 92078
Are you doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results? Have you tried countless times to change a your behavior, such as quitting alcohol, opioids, benzodiazepines, heroin, methamphetamines, or nicotine? Have you recently left inpatient rehabilitation or an inpatient psychiatric ward and need additional support? Do you feel like your mood, anxiety, and depression are running your life? Do you feel triggered by your past? Making these changes can be extremely difficult and cannot be done alone. My name is Lauren Debski. I am a dual board-certified family and psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner.
Are you doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results? Have you tried countless times to change a your behavior, such as quitting alcohol, opioids, benzodiazepines, heroin, methamphetamines, or nicotine? Have you recently left inpatient rehabilitation or an inpatient psychiatric ward and need additional support? Do you feel like your mood, anxiety, and depression are running your life? Do you feel triggered by your past? Making these changes can be extremely difficult and cannot be done alone. My name is Lauren Debski. I am a dual board-certified family and psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner.
(760) 276-6579 View (760) 276-6579
Photo of Patrick Sassoon, Psychiatrist in Chula Vista, CA
Patrick Sassoon
Psychiatrist, MD, MS
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
My approach is based on integrative psychiatry, which uses medications, therapy and complementary medicine to treat the whole person, not just the symptoms. I address the combined impact of sleep, lifestyle, relationships, nutrition and chronic medical conditions on well-being, and use cutting edge tools like genetic testing to guide personalized treatment with medication and supplements. I consider the patient’s cultural background in my assessments and I can provide treatment in Spanish, Portuguese, French and Italian. My goal is to help my patients create lasting changes and build vitality, resilience and purpose in life.
My approach is based on integrative psychiatry, which uses medications, therapy and complementary medicine to treat the whole person, not just the symptoms. I address the combined impact of sleep, lifestyle, relationships, nutrition and chronic medical conditions on well-being, and use cutting edge tools like genetic testing to guide personalized treatment with medication and supplements. I consider the patient’s cultural background in my assessments and I can provide treatment in Spanish, Portuguese, French and Italian. My goal is to help my patients create lasting changes and build vitality, resilience and purpose in life.
(657) 837-3236 View (657) 837-3236
Photo of Headlight / San Diego, Psychiatrist in Chula Vista, CA
Headlight / San Diego
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92122
Headlight is proud to offer San Diego, CA a full circle of mental health care services, including therapy, coaching, support groups, medication management, and an online library of self-care resources. We make world-class mental health care accessible for everyone!
Headlight is proud to offer San Diego, CA a full circle of mental health care services, including therapy, coaching, support groups, medication management, and an online library of self-care resources. We make world-class mental health care accessible for everyone!
(858) 221-9820 View (858) 221-9820
Photo of Open Mind Health, Psychiatrist in Chula Vista, CA
Open Mind Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, loss, trauma, isolation, relationship/family issues? At Open Mind Health, we get to the “root cause” of what’s actually leading to your emotional challenges, while treating the resulting issues and developing lasting solutions to help you feel optimistic and hopeful. We offer customized holistic treatment plans in our wellness tracks developed to provide lasting results, Our therapists and life coaches are compassionate and forward-thinkers. Call us today to get started on your path to mental wellness at 855-550-MIND (6463).
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, loss, trauma, isolation, relationship/family issues? At Open Mind Health, we get to the “root cause” of what’s actually leading to your emotional challenges, while treating the resulting issues and developing lasting solutions to help you feel optimistic and hopeful. We offer customized holistic treatment plans in our wellness tracks developed to provide lasting results, Our therapists and life coaches are compassionate and forward-thinkers. Call us today to get started on your path to mental wellness at 855-550-MIND (6463).
(619) 949-0858 View (619) 949-0858

See more therapy options for Chula Vista

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.