Photo of Vincent David Feitosa, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in California
Vincent David Feitosa
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
La Mesa, CA 91941  (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 Sarah Raike, Physician Assistant in California
Sarah Raike
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94301  (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!
(650) 649-6285 View (650) 649-6285
Photo of SFS Medical Group ,Inc, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in California
SFS Medical Group ,Inc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP , PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Inglewood, CA 90305
My name is Fidelia Nnachetam, l am a Board Certified Nurser Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am qualified to practice both primary care and psychiatric. I diagnose, treat, and prescribe medications for children, adolescents, and adults. Some of my practice specialists: Depression, Schizophrenia, Bipolar, Anxiety, ADHD, Panic Attacks and Substance Abuse. Mental illness is nothing to be ashamed of, It is treatable by prescribing up-to-date psychiatric medications. Our treatment is via telehealth so the client can share their experiences in the comfort of their own home. We are available 7 days a week.
My name is Fidelia Nnachetam, l am a Board Certified Nurser Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am qualified to practice both primary care and psychiatric. I diagnose, treat, and prescribe medications for children, adolescents, and adults. Some of my practice specialists: Depression, Schizophrenia, Bipolar, Anxiety, ADHD, Panic Attacks and Substance Abuse. Mental illness is nothing to be ashamed of, It is treatable by prescribing up-to-date psychiatric medications. Our treatment is via telehealth so the client can share their experiences in the comfort of their own home. We are available 7 days a week.
(424) 408-8493 View (424) 408-8493
Photo of Sarah Raike, Physician Assistant in California
Sarah Raike
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Calabasas, CA 91302  (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!
(747) 269-1215 View (747) 269-1215
Photo of Lucy Sloninsky, Psychiatrist in California
Lucy Sloninsky
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90048  (Online Only)
Thank you for your interest in my practice. I am a board certified general adult psychiatrist with special interests in integrative care, collaborative care, and women’s mental health. I approach mental health care with a focus on individualized treatment plans and collaborative care. I utilize medication management to treat disorders including depression, bipolar disorder, and anxiety and have special interests in integrative/holistic care. I have practiced in a variety of clinical settings, including the UCLA faculty as a clinical instructor for UCLA medical students and psychiatry residents.
Thank you for your interest in my practice. I am a board certified general adult psychiatrist with special interests in integrative care, collaborative care, and women’s mental health. I approach mental health care with a focus on individualized treatment plans and collaborative care. I utilize medication management to treat disorders including depression, bipolar disorder, and anxiety and have special interests in integrative/holistic care. I have practiced in a variety of clinical settings, including the UCLA faculty as a clinical instructor for UCLA medical students and psychiatry residents.
(310) 935-0754 View (310) 935-0754
Photo of Mentally Healthycare, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in California
Mentally Healthycare
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Cerritos, CA 90703
Together, we will construct customized tactics that tackle your necessities, whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, experiencing trauma, PTSD, eating disorder, schizophrenia, bipolar.
Empowerment of the Mental Wellness: A Journey to Healing and Growth I extend a heartfelt welcome to you, inviting you to join me on the threshold of an enthralling new chapter in my professional story with the potential for profound transformation, healing, and personal growth. Allow me to introduce myself as Noah Peter a dedicated harbinger of hope and transformation in the realm of mental health, as you become acquainted with the contours of my story. My journey has been a symphony of rigorous education and immersive clinical experience, having nurtured an abiding passion for unravelling the intricate tapestry of the human psyche
Together, we will construct customized tactics that tackle your necessities, whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, experiencing trauma, PTSD, eating disorder, schizophrenia, bipolar.
Empowerment of the Mental Wellness: A Journey to Healing and Growth I extend a heartfelt welcome to you, inviting you to join me on the threshold of an enthralling new chapter in my professional story with the potential for profound transformation, healing, and personal growth. Allow me to introduce myself as Noah Peter a dedicated harbinger of hope and transformation in the realm of mental health, as you become acquainted with the contours of my story. My journey has been a symphony of rigorous education and immersive clinical experience, having nurtured an abiding passion for unravelling the intricate tapestry of the human psyche
(562) 667-2362 View (562) 667-2362
Photo of David Wallace, Physician Assistant in California
David Wallace
Physician Assistant, PA-C, MPH
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
I am currently an outpatient provider associated with the Moment Health by Dr. Stacy Cohen. I help assist, diagnose, and treat a variety of psychiatric conditions including depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, addiction, bipolar, and personality disorders. We pride ourselves in using a combined approach utilizing biological, psychologic, social, and spiritual approach for each patient. I can help initiate, manage, adjust, or titrate off medications as well as help coordinate your care with therapists, addiction counselors, and treatment centers.
I am currently an outpatient provider associated with the Moment Health by Dr. Stacy Cohen. I help assist, diagnose, and treat a variety of psychiatric conditions including depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, addiction, bipolar, and personality disorders. We pride ourselves in using a combined approach utilizing biological, psychologic, social, and spiritual approach for each patient. I can help initiate, manage, adjust, or titrate off medications as well as help coordinate your care with therapists, addiction counselors, and treatment centers.
(424) 704-9589 View (424) 704-9589
Photo of Peyman Tashkandi, Psychiatrist in California
Peyman Tashkandi
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90045
I love helping clients live their best lives. My ideal client is willing to work with me to achieve their goals. I specialize in treating various forms of depression, such as unipolar, bipolar, postpartum, etc., and especially treatment-resistant cases. I also treat anxiety disorders, PTSD, and attention disorders such as ADHD. I primarily treat patients in the age range of 18-65.
I love helping clients live their best lives. My ideal client is willing to work with me to achieve their goals. I specialize in treating various forms of depression, such as unipolar, bipolar, postpartum, etc., and especially treatment-resistant cases. I also treat anxiety disorders, PTSD, and attention disorders such as ADHD. I primarily treat patients in the age range of 18-65.
(424) 459-7441 View (424) 459-7441
Photo of Southern Oregon Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in California
Southern Oregon Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Los Gatos, CA 95032  (Online Only)
Offering psychiatric evaluation, medication management, limited psychotherapy & ketamine treatment to adults struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, OCD, schizophrenia and other psychiatric & neurodevelopmental conditions throughout Oregon. Direct, open-minded & non-judgmental in my approach, I believe in partnering with patients to develop a personalized treatment plan utilizing the best available/most current evidence-based research in neuropsychiatry, as well as complementary & alternative treatments.
Offering psychiatric evaluation, medication management, limited psychotherapy & ketamine treatment to adults struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, OCD, schizophrenia and other psychiatric & neurodevelopmental conditions throughout Oregon. Direct, open-minded & non-judgmental in my approach, I believe in partnering with patients to develop a personalized treatment plan utilizing the best available/most current evidence-based research in neuropsychiatry, as well as complementary & alternative treatments.
(541) 203-6352 View (541) 203-6352
Photo of Aryeh L Goldberg, Psychiatrist in California
Aryeh L Goldberg
Psychiatrist, MD, MA
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90048
Dr. Goldberg is a board-certified adult psychiatrist and forensic psychiatrist practicing in Southern California. He treats a variety of psychiatric conditions, including Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Schizophrenia-Spectrum Disorders, and personality disorders as well as disorders of sleep, attention and focus. Dr. Goldberg specializes in marital therapy and marital interventions as a treatment for psychiatric disorders. His further interests include spirituality and the unique mental health concerns of religious and spiritual communities.
Dr. Goldberg is a board-certified adult psychiatrist and forensic psychiatrist practicing in Southern California. He treats a variety of psychiatric conditions, including Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Schizophrenia-Spectrum Disorders, and personality disorders as well as disorders of sleep, attention and focus. Dr. Goldberg specializes in marital therapy and marital interventions as a treatment for psychiatric disorders. His further interests include spirituality and the unique mental health concerns of religious and spiritual communities.
(310) 363-0765 View (310) 363-0765
Photo of Olga Segal, Psychiatrist in California
Olga Segal
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mill Valley, CA 94941
We offer a full range of psychiatric and psychological services: TMS, Telepsychiatry, Psychopharmacology - Medication Management, Psychotherapy, and Spravato (Also known as Esketamine). TMS Therapy is a therapy designed for the treatment of certain Neurological conditions, specifically Major Depressive Disorder. Remission from Depression. Knowledgeable approach to medication management. For patients who want to be seen at the convenience of their homes, we provide telepsychiatry options. Most Insurances are Welcome, including Medicare & Partnership (Beacon)
We offer a full range of psychiatric and psychological services: TMS, Telepsychiatry, Psychopharmacology - Medication Management, Psychotherapy, and Spravato (Also known as Esketamine). TMS Therapy is a therapy designed for the treatment of certain Neurological conditions, specifically Major Depressive Disorder. Remission from Depression. Knowledgeable approach to medication management. For patients who want to be seen at the convenience of their homes, we provide telepsychiatry options. Most Insurances are Welcome, including Medicare & Partnership (Beacon)
(415) 592-7451 View (415) 592-7451
Photo of Sarit Hovav MD, Psychiatrist in California
Sarit Hovav MD
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA
Verified Verified
San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675  (Online Only)
Dr. Hovav has a deep understanding of the biological, psychological and social components of mental illness and treats her patients using evidence-based medicine combined with psychotherapy. For treatment-resistant disorders, she is known to think outside the box with creative psychopharmacology. She graduated medical school, completed an internship in Internal Medicine, then a Postdoctoral fellowship at UCLA, and finally a Psychiatry Residency at Creighton Univ. She was previously a Medical Director of Behavioral Medicine and is currently in private practice. She has several publications in leading peer-reviewed medical journals.
Dr. Hovav has a deep understanding of the biological, psychological and social components of mental illness and treats her patients using evidence-based medicine combined with psychotherapy. For treatment-resistant disorders, she is known to think outside the box with creative psychopharmacology. She graduated medical school, completed an internship in Internal Medicine, then a Postdoctoral fellowship at UCLA, and finally a Psychiatry Residency at Creighton Univ. She was previously a Medical Director of Behavioral Medicine and is currently in private practice. She has several publications in leading peer-reviewed medical journals.
(402) 252-3883 View (402) 252-3883
Photo of Steve Soldinger, Psychiatrist in California
Steve Soldinger
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
My practice provides care on the cutting edge of psychiatry, including both psychodynamics and psychopharmacology, and I treat many complex medical and neurological illnesses that interface with psychiatry. I offer the future of psychiatry today. Please visit my other site at sanfernandovalleypsychiatrist.com. Assistant Adjunct Clinical Professor (1981-2013),University of California at Los Angeles. Teaching course on film and Psychiatry to residents at Sepulveda VA . Have given over two hundred educational lectures over the past thirty years to undergraduates, medical students, residents, and colleagues. Received the award for best outside lecture of the year from Cal State Northridge.
My practice provides care on the cutting edge of psychiatry, including both psychodynamics and psychopharmacology, and I treat many complex medical and neurological illnesses that interface with psychiatry. I offer the future of psychiatry today. Please visit my other site at sanfernandovalleypsychiatrist.com. Assistant Adjunct Clinical Professor (1981-2013),University of California at Los Angeles. Teaching course on film and Psychiatry to residents at Sepulveda VA . Have given over two hundred educational lectures over the past thirty years to undergraduates, medical students, residents, and colleagues. Received the award for best outside lecture of the year from Cal State Northridge.
(818) 850-5797 View (818) 850-5797
Photo of The Happiness Psychiatrist | Sheenie Ambardar MD, Psychiatrist in California
The Happiness Psychiatrist | Sheenie Ambardar MD
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90067
Do you feel like you're trudging through life, weighed down by a constant sense of sadness & worry? Perhaps the joy you once knew has faded, replaced by a persistent feeling of being stuck. You're not alone. Millions of adults struggle with Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, and an overwhelming sense of being trapped in a cycle of negativity. I understand the profound impact these conditions can have on your daily life. The relentless drain of energy, the crippling anxieties, & the sense of hopelessness can make even the simplest tasks feel insurmountable. You may yearn for the vibrant life you once had, but the path forward seems unclear.
Do you feel like you're trudging through life, weighed down by a constant sense of sadness & worry? Perhaps the joy you once knew has faded, replaced by a persistent feeling of being stuck. You're not alone. Millions of adults struggle with Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, and an overwhelming sense of being trapped in a cycle of negativity. I understand the profound impact these conditions can have on your daily life. The relentless drain of energy, the crippling anxieties, & the sense of hopelessness can make even the simplest tasks feel insurmountable. You may yearn for the vibrant life you once had, but the path forward seems unclear.
(323) 689-5148 View (323) 689-5148
Photo of Eve Poteet, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in California
Eve Poteet
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94132
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Mother, Spouse and retired U.S. Naval Officer, I understand the trials and tribulations of life in the best and worst circumstances. As a PROUD parent of two great children, a College Student and Special Olympics Athlete and a High School Dynamo I HONOR neurodiverse populations!
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Mother, Spouse and retired U.S. Naval Officer, I understand the trials and tribulations of life in the best and worst circumstances. As a PROUD parent of two great children, a College Student and Special Olympics Athlete and a High School Dynamo I HONOR neurodiverse populations!
(415) 475-1009 View (415) 475-1009
Photo of Leah Malhotra, Psychiatrist in California
Leah Malhotra
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Menlo Park, CA 94025
My mission is to provide state-of-the-art psychiatric care that combines a collaborative, warm approach with the most effective practices in psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy. My focus is on helping relieve anxiety, mood disturbances, obsessions, insomnia and other distressing symptoms. Common therapy goals are to help with a difficult life transition, improve relationships, break maladaptive patterns or deepen personal understanding. Many of my clients are young adults adapting to life in/after college, raising a family, or juggling challenging careers. Compassionate, empowering care truly can help.
My mission is to provide state-of-the-art psychiatric care that combines a collaborative, warm approach with the most effective practices in psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy. My focus is on helping relieve anxiety, mood disturbances, obsessions, insomnia and other distressing symptoms. Common therapy goals are to help with a difficult life transition, improve relationships, break maladaptive patterns or deepen personal understanding. Many of my clients are young adults adapting to life in/after college, raising a family, or juggling challenging careers. Compassionate, empowering care truly can help.
(650) 618-2803 View (650) 618-2803
Photo of Remedy Psychiatric Services A Nursing Corporation, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in California
Remedy Psychiatric Services A Nursing Corporation
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Cupertino, CA 95014
Appointments 7 A - 7 P daily, weekends & holidays! I am a California psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I extend my care to individuals aged 12-15 (med management only) and older (med management and talk therapy), encompassing diverse backgrounds and addressing a range of mental health conditions. Specializing in trauma, serious mental health conditions, geriatrics, and MAT for recovery. I approach each patient's journey with a commitment to discretion and privacy. Secure your appointment today! remedyps.clientsecure.me
Appointments 7 A - 7 P daily, weekends & holidays! I am a California psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I extend my care to individuals aged 12-15 (med management only) and older (med management and talk therapy), encompassing diverse backgrounds and addressing a range of mental health conditions. Specializing in trauma, serious mental health conditions, geriatrics, and MAT for recovery. I approach each patient's journey with a commitment to discretion and privacy. Secure your appointment today! remedyps.clientsecure.me
(408) 869-5491 View (408) 869-5491
Photo of Beatrice Rabkin, Psychiatrist in California
Beatrice Rabkin
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90402  (Online Only)
Thank you for visiting my profile! I am a board-certified general psychiatrist, working with a variety of patients in my outpatient practice. I use a multimodal approach with clients that draws upon psychotherapy, mindfulness work, Yoga psychology, and other integrative practices. For more info about my holistic approach to treatment, here's an informative podcast highlighting my work: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/holistic-psychiatry-dr-beatrice-rabkin-md/id1501515784?i=1000502625263 or https://youtu.be/wJe3t3ZzkNs
Thank you for visiting my profile! I am a board-certified general psychiatrist, working with a variety of patients in my outpatient practice. I use a multimodal approach with clients that draws upon psychotherapy, mindfulness work, Yoga psychology, and other integrative practices. For more info about my holistic approach to treatment, here's an informative podcast highlighting my work: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/holistic-psychiatry-dr-beatrice-rabkin-md/id1501515784?i=1000502625263 or https://youtu.be/wJe3t3ZzkNs
(310) 935-0754 View (310) 935-0754
Photo of Jerry H. Gelbart, Psychiatrist in California
Jerry H. Gelbart
Psychiatrist, MD, QME, FAPA
Verified Verified
Orinda, CA 94563  (Online Only)
My name is Jerry Gelbart. I was born in Cleveland, Ohio, went to college in Ann Arbor at the University of Michigan and received a Bachelor of Science in Psychology. I attended medical school at Ohio State University, and trained in Psychiatry at UCLA. I’ve been in private practice for 30+ years. I have helped many people suffering from psychological symptoms with medication and firmly advocate biologic methods of treatment. I’ve had an even greater passion, however, for teaching people how to understand their emotions, and how to put that information to use to reduce problematic symptoms and find greater fulfillment in life.
My name is Jerry Gelbart. I was born in Cleveland, Ohio, went to college in Ann Arbor at the University of Michigan and received a Bachelor of Science in Psychology. I attended medical school at Ohio State University, and trained in Psychiatry at UCLA. I’ve been in private practice for 30+ years. I have helped many people suffering from psychological symptoms with medication and firmly advocate biologic methods of treatment. I’ve had an even greater passion, however, for teaching people how to understand their emotions, and how to put that information to use to reduce problematic symptoms and find greater fulfillment in life.
(510) 904-3092 x3 View (510) 904-3092 x3
Photo of Dr Perez, Psychiatrist in California
Dr Perez
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Riverside, CA 92505
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances?
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances?
(951) 470-3671 View (951) 470-3671

See more therapy options for California

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.