Bipolar Disorder Psychiatrists in Hamilton County, IN

Photo of Dr. Greta L. Krause, Psychiatrist in Hamilton County, IN
Dr. Greta L. Krause
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Carmel, IN 46032
My areas of specialty include mood disorders including depression and bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, adult ADHD, and traumatic brain injury.
My primary goal for each and every one of my patients is to assist them in reaching their optimal state of health in order that they may resume living with renewed hope and passion. Though my training and focus initiated in psychiatry, I believe that problems related to depressed mood, insomnia, weight gain/loss, fatigue, and anxiety are actually only symptoms of dysfunction and or inflammation in other systems of the body. These underlying causes of poor health must be identified and treated correctly in order for the patient to achieve optimal physical and mental health.
My areas of specialty include mood disorders including depression and bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, adult ADHD, and traumatic brain injury.
My primary goal for each and every one of my patients is to assist them in reaching their optimal state of health in order that they may resume living with renewed hope and passion. Though my training and focus initiated in psychiatry, I believe that problems related to depressed mood, insomnia, weight gain/loss, fatigue, and anxiety are actually only symptoms of dysfunction and or inflammation in other systems of the body. These underlying causes of poor health must be identified and treated correctly in order for the patient to achieve optimal physical and mental health.
(317) 316-3026 View (317) 316-3026
Photo of Dr. Arif Noorbaksh, Psychiatrist in Hamilton County, IN
Dr. Arif Noorbaksh
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Westfield, IN 46074
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, and/or bipolar and related disorders? I strongly believe in meeting patients where they are in their individual journeys. The ideal client is the one who attends their initial evaluation to talk through their experience and potential treatment options. I approach patient care holistically and attempt to develop an understanding of the patient’s lived experience and current symptoms.
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, and/or bipolar and related disorders? I strongly believe in meeting patients where they are in their individual journeys. The ideal client is the one who attends their initial evaluation to talk through their experience and potential treatment options. I approach patient care holistically and attempt to develop an understanding of the patient’s lived experience and current symptoms.
(463) 229-6173 View (463) 229-6173
Photo of Zeba Madni, Psychiatrist in Hamilton County, IN
Zeba Madni
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fishers, IN 46037  (Online Only)
I understand that your health and wellness are your priority. I work collaboratively with you towards your goals. I believe in providing holistic, individualized care. My area of expertise includes Major depressive disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Mood Disorders, PostPartum Depression, Personality Disorders, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Social Anxiety Disorder, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, OCD, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective Disorder and Psychosis.
I understand that your health and wellness are your priority. I work collaboratively with you towards your goals. I believe in providing holistic, individualized care. My area of expertise includes Major depressive disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Mood Disorders, PostPartum Depression, Personality Disorders, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Social Anxiety Disorder, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, OCD, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective Disorder and Psychosis.
(317) 483-8522 View (317) 483-8522
Photo of Renee McDougal, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Hamilton County, IN
Renee McDougal
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carmel, IN 46032
Hi there! I'm passionate about offering a personalized and holistic approach to support your mental well-being. At Ivy Health, we believe in nurturing the connection between your mind, body, and spirit. Life can be tough, and there are often battles that go unseen. Our mission is to be there for you, providing guidance and treatment to help you find a more centered and balanced self. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, or any other challenges, I'm here to work with you.
Hi there! I'm passionate about offering a personalized and holistic approach to support your mental well-being. At Ivy Health, we believe in nurturing the connection between your mind, body, and spirit. Life can be tough, and there are often battles that go unseen. Our mission is to be there for you, providing guidance and treatment to help you find a more centered and balanced self. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, or any other challenges, I'm here to work with you.
(463) 241-6602 View (463) 241-6602
Photo of Mind Mechanics -Kimberly S. Huff , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Hamilton County, IN
Mind Mechanics -Kimberly S. Huff
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fishers, IN 46038
Experienced in: Depression, Anxiety, Sleeping disorders, Bipolar, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, anger/agoraphobia/eating, postpartum mood disorders & others.
Want to become the BEST version of you? Many people struggle with depression, anxiety/worry, sleep, focus/concentration, mood swings, anger, nightmares, sexual dysfunction and ruminating thoughts. If you are looking for a provider offering medication management reach out today! Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners are highly specialized in the accurate assessment/diagnosis and treatment of mental disorders. Treating the whole person is needed to achieve mental wellness. Treatments plans may include medications, psychotherapy, coping skills, health coaching, lab work and weight management.
Experienced in: Depression, Anxiety, Sleeping disorders, Bipolar, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, anger/agoraphobia/eating, postpartum mood disorders & others.
Want to become the BEST version of you? Many people struggle with depression, anxiety/worry, sleep, focus/concentration, mood swings, anger, nightmares, sexual dysfunction and ruminating thoughts. If you are looking for a provider offering medication management reach out today! Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners are highly specialized in the accurate assessment/diagnosis and treatment of mental disorders. Treating the whole person is needed to achieve mental wellness. Treatments plans may include medications, psychotherapy, coping skills, health coaching, lab work and weight management.
(317) 981-2356 View (317) 981-2356
Photo of Michele Babin, Psychiatrist in Hamilton County, IN
Michele Babin
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Fishers, IN 46038
Babin sees adults with depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety and panic, posttraumatic stress disorder, eating disorders, and women's issues.
Dr. Babin practices at the LifeStance Fishers, IN, office and has been in medical practice since 1999. She has a wide range of experience involving private practice, academia, community mental health, and the Veterans Administration, including both outpatient and inpatient settings. She graduated from Purdue University School of Engineering before completing medical school at Indiana University School of Medicine in Indianapolis, where she also completed her intern year. Dr. Babin then finished her residency in psychiatry at Maine Medical Center, Portland, Maine, and also served as Chief Resident there.
Babin sees adults with depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety and panic, posttraumatic stress disorder, eating disorders, and women's issues.
Dr. Babin practices at the LifeStance Fishers, IN, office and has been in medical practice since 1999. She has a wide range of experience involving private practice, academia, community mental health, and the Veterans Administration, including both outpatient and inpatient settings. She graduated from Purdue University School of Engineering before completing medical school at Indiana University School of Medicine in Indianapolis, where she also completed her intern year. Dr. Babin then finished her residency in psychiatry at Maine Medical Center, Portland, Maine, and also served as Chief Resident there.
(463) 217-0489 View (463) 217-0489
Photo of Kristy Page, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Hamilton County, IN
Kristy Page
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carmel, IN 46032
Depression, including Spravato (esketamine) treatment, Anxiety and Panic Disorders, OCD, Insomnia, ADHD, Trauma, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Dementia/Alzheimer's Disease and GeneSight testing.
Kristy Page is a board-certified FNP and PMHNP. She received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree from Purdue University and her Master of Science in Nursing and Family Nurse Practitioner Degree from Ball State University and her Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner degree from Indiana Wesleyan University. Kristy is extremely passionate about the mental health and well-being of her patients. Kristy is licensed in both Indiana and Florida. Kristy is accepting new patients in both states and does in-person or virtual visits.
Depression, including Spravato (esketamine) treatment, Anxiety and Panic Disorders, OCD, Insomnia, ADHD, Trauma, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Dementia/Alzheimer's Disease and GeneSight testing.
Kristy Page is a board-certified FNP and PMHNP. She received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree from Purdue University and her Master of Science in Nursing and Family Nurse Practitioner Degree from Ball State University and her Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner degree from Indiana Wesleyan University. Kristy is extremely passionate about the mental health and well-being of her patients. Kristy is licensed in both Indiana and Florida. Kristy is accepting new patients in both states and does in-person or virtual visits.
(317) 648-0979 View (317) 648-0979
Photo of Zeba Madni, Psychiatrist in Hamilton County, IN
Zeba Madni
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Carmel, IN 46032
Madni's area of expertise includes Major depressive disorder, Mood disorders, Bipolar disorder, Borderline personality disorder, Generalized Anxiety disorder, Social Anxiety, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective disorders, and psychosis in patients ages 18-65.
Dr. Zeba Madni is a Psychiatrist in Indiana who has been practicing since 2012. Dr. Madni completed her medical degree through Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College in Aligarh, India. She went on to complete her residency at Indiana University School of Medicine. Dr. Madni's interest to become a psychiatrist came from her interest in patients' stories and the need to help them, educate them and encourage them to take an active role in their care.
Madni's area of expertise includes Major depressive disorder, Mood disorders, Bipolar disorder, Borderline personality disorder, Generalized Anxiety disorder, Social Anxiety, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective disorders, and psychosis in patients ages 18-65.
Dr. Zeba Madni is a Psychiatrist in Indiana who has been practicing since 2012. Dr. Madni completed her medical degree through Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College in Aligarh, India. She went on to complete her residency at Indiana University School of Medicine. Dr. Madni's interest to become a psychiatrist came from her interest in patients' stories and the need to help them, educate them and encourage them to take an active role in their care.
(317) 483-4705 View (317) 483-4705
Photo of Dynamic Mental Healthcare Solutions, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Hamilton County, IN
Dynamic Mental Healthcare Solutions
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PHARM-D, PMHNP,
Verified Verified
Fishers, IN 46038  (Online Only)
My practice is centered on adults, where I address mood disorders including anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder, alongside managing ADHD, sleep issues, PTSD, and panic disorders.
Patient-Centered Approached At Dynamic Healthcare Services, we prioritize the needs and preferences of our patients. We believe in building strong therapeutic relationships based on trust and collaboration. Our team takes the time to listen to each patient's concerns, understand their unique experiences, and work together to develop a personalized treatment plan.
My practice is centered on adults, where I address mood disorders including anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder, alongside managing ADHD, sleep issues, PTSD, and panic disorders.
Patient-Centered Approached At Dynamic Healthcare Services, we prioritize the needs and preferences of our patients. We believe in building strong therapeutic relationships based on trust and collaboration. Our team takes the time to listen to each patient's concerns, understand their unique experiences, and work together to develop a personalized treatment plan.
(463) 218-9690 View (463) 218-9690
Photo of Daniel B Shepler, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Hamilton County, IN
Daniel B Shepler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AGNP
Verified Verified
Carmel, IN 46032
My name is Daniel Shepler. I am dual certified as a Primary Mental Health NP-C as well as an Adult-Gero NP-BC. I see patients ages 10 and up. I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in adolescents and adults.
My name is Daniel Shepler. I am dual certified as a Primary Mental Health NP-C as well as an Adult-Gero NP-BC. I see patients ages 10 and up. I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in adolescents and adults.
(317) 900-4146 View (317) 900-4146
Photo of Heidi Needler, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Hamilton County, IN
Heidi Needler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46280
Heidi Needler is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Indiana. Since 2022, Heidi has been working alongside clients in a variety of mental health settings – outpatient, inpatient, and partial hospitalization. Prior to achieving her NP, Heidi was a practicing RN for 14yrs. She has been nominated for a Daisy Award for her compassion, warmth, and attentive care. Heidi provides holistic care with a focus on mental health disorders. Her passion is partnering with patients experiencing anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar and other mood disorders, as well as psychosis/schizophrenia to improve their quality of life.
Heidi Needler is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Indiana. Since 2022, Heidi has been working alongside clients in a variety of mental health settings – outpatient, inpatient, and partial hospitalization. Prior to achieving her NP, Heidi was a practicing RN for 14yrs. She has been nominated for a Daisy Award for her compassion, warmth, and attentive care. Heidi provides holistic care with a focus on mental health disorders. Her passion is partnering with patients experiencing anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar and other mood disorders, as well as psychosis/schizophrenia to improve their quality of life.
(317) 597-6337 View (317) 597-6337
Photo of Abagael Jenkins, Psychiatric Nurse in Hamilton County, IN
Abagael Jenkins
Psychiatric Nurse, APRN (C
Verified Verified
Sheridan, IN 46069
She works to provide holistic, patient-centered care for a wide range of mental health conditions, including depression, bipolar, anxiety, posttraumatic stress disorder, addiction and ADHD.
Abagael is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She received her bachelor's degree in Biology from Indiana University, bachelor's of science in nursing from Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, and master's degree from Indiana Wesleyan University. Her goal is to develop a trusting, therapeutic relationship where client and provider can collaborate on and establish a plan of treatment best suited to the client's needs.
She works to provide holistic, patient-centered care for a wide range of mental health conditions, including depression, bipolar, anxiety, posttraumatic stress disorder, addiction and ADHD.
Abagael is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She received her bachelor's degree in Biology from Indiana University, bachelor's of science in nursing from Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, and master's degree from Indiana Wesleyan University. Her goal is to develop a trusting, therapeutic relationship where client and provider can collaborate on and establish a plan of treatment best suited to the client's needs.
(463) 220-4324 View (463) 220-4324
Rebecca J. Moredock Mueller
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Noblesville, IN 46060
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist and current Professor of Forensic Psychiatry. I work with children (5 and older), adolescents and adults and my particular areas of focus are mood disorders (Depression, Bipolar Spectrum, and Seasonal Affective Disorder), Anxiety Spectrum, Eating Disorders, Special Needs Children, ADD/ADHD. I also offer specialty evaluations pertaining to child adoption, aviation, and forensics. My practice is located right off of State Road 9 and I-70 in Greenfield,IN. Please feel free to contact us if you are in need, I try to reserve appointment spots for new patients so I can typically get people in quickly.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist and current Professor of Forensic Psychiatry. I work with children (5 and older), adolescents and adults and my particular areas of focus are mood disorders (Depression, Bipolar Spectrum, and Seasonal Affective Disorder), Anxiety Spectrum, Eating Disorders, Special Needs Children, ADD/ADHD. I also offer specialty evaluations pertaining to child adoption, aviation, and forensics. My practice is located right off of State Road 9 and I-70 in Greenfield,IN. Please feel free to contact us if you are in need, I try to reserve appointment spots for new patients so I can typically get people in quickly.
(317) 961-8548 View (317) 961-8548
Photo of Christopher J. Dull, Psychiatrist in Hamilton County, IN
Christopher J. Dull
Psychiatrist, MD, JD
Verified Verified
Carmel, IN 46032
I am particularly interested in the treatment of Major Depression and Manic Depression (Bipolar Disorder), Substance Use Disorders and the use of Medically Assisted Treatment (Suboxone, Zubsolv, Naltrexone, e.
I am dedicated to thoughtful and persisting care for my Adolescent, Adult, and Elder Adult patients. I believe it is my job first to help my patients be heard. When one is able to articulate and discuss his or her concerns, then the meaning of these issues comes into better focus. On the basis of this information, we can build a more lasting, substantial plan to best meet one’s unique needs and goals. I am extremely grateful to Vanderbilt and Johns Hopkins for my medical & Psychiatry residency training. I am especially grateful to my patients. They have taught me most of all.
I am particularly interested in the treatment of Major Depression and Manic Depression (Bipolar Disorder), Substance Use Disorders and the use of Medically Assisted Treatment (Suboxone, Zubsolv, Naltrexone, e.
I am dedicated to thoughtful and persisting care for my Adolescent, Adult, and Elder Adult patients. I believe it is my job first to help my patients be heard. When one is able to articulate and discuss his or her concerns, then the meaning of these issues comes into better focus. On the basis of this information, we can build a more lasting, substantial plan to best meet one’s unique needs and goals. I am extremely grateful to Vanderbilt and Johns Hopkins for my medical & Psychiatry residency training. I am especially grateful to my patients. They have taught me most of all.
(317) 934-2051 View (317) 934-2051
Photo of Muhammad Munir, Psychiatrist in Hamilton County, IN
Muhammad Munir
Psychiatrist, MD, DFAPA, DABPN
Verified Verified
Fishers, IN 46038
I am uniquely Board Certified in adult as well as child and adolescent psychiatry. I completed adult psychiatry residency at Wayne State University MI then furthered education with child psychiatry fellowship at Brown University RI. I have worked in various clinical settings including inpatient units, outpatient, residential facilities and ER. As a child psychiatrist I have enjoyed working at school based clinics, academic institutions and community mental health agencies. These years of extensive clinical experience enable me to utilize various modalities of treatment for all age groups.
I am uniquely Board Certified in adult as well as child and adolescent psychiatry. I completed adult psychiatry residency at Wayne State University MI then furthered education with child psychiatry fellowship at Brown University RI. I have worked in various clinical settings including inpatient units, outpatient, residential facilities and ER. As a child psychiatrist I have enjoyed working at school based clinics, academic institutions and community mental health agencies. These years of extensive clinical experience enable me to utilize various modalities of treatment for all age groups.
(317) 943-7908 View (317) 943-7908
Photo of Marjorie Combellick, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Hamilton County, IN
Marjorie Combellick
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, AGNPC, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Carmel, IN 46032  (Online Only)
It can be difficult to find your way amidst uncertainty. It can be easy to become overwhelmed and feel powerless and even hopeless, to lose a sense of purpose and enjoyment. Sometimes you need someone to help you sort these things out and get to the root of a problem so that you can grow beyond it. If I can help you achieve that in any way, then I have succeeded. My primary client focus at this time is young adults in college or trade school, professional women, working moms, and peripartum women.
It can be difficult to find your way amidst uncertainty. It can be easy to become overwhelmed and feel powerless and even hopeless, to lose a sense of purpose and enjoyment. Sometimes you need someone to help you sort these things out and get to the root of a problem so that you can grow beyond it. If I can help you achieve that in any way, then I have succeeded. My primary client focus at this time is young adults in college or trade school, professional women, working moms, and peripartum women.
(317) 483-8204 View (317) 483-8204
Photo of Helix Health Group, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Hamilton County, IN
Helix Health Group
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Carmel, IN 46032
I believe creating an environment of health and wellness begins with an open empathetic therapeutic relationship. A place where people feel safe to explore their family/relationship dynamics, unresolved traumas, and coping mechanisms. Through this exploration we will discover in what ways these impact your life. All the while, working together to identify your individual strengths and how we can adapt these to empower growth. We will establish an individual treatment plan that may include medications, complementary and alternative wellness interventions, and/or psychotherapy.
I believe creating an environment of health and wellness begins with an open empathetic therapeutic relationship. A place where people feel safe to explore their family/relationship dynamics, unresolved traumas, and coping mechanisms. Through this exploration we will discover in what ways these impact your life. All the while, working together to identify your individual strengths and how we can adapt these to empower growth. We will establish an individual treatment plan that may include medications, complementary and alternative wellness interventions, and/or psychotherapy.
(317) 350-8838 View (317) 350-8838
Photo of Lynnea Carder, Psychiatrist in Hamilton County, IN
Lynnea Carder
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Carmel, IN 46032  (Online Only)
Dr. Carder has been practicing for over 20 years in general adult psychiatry. She is board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and has a certification in Elder Law. She has advanced training in psychopharmacology which she earned with distinction. She received her medical degree from the University of Toledo, College of Medicine and Life Sciences. She completed her internship with the Department of Family medicine and completed her residency with Department of Psychiatry both at the University of Toledo, College of Medicine and Life Sciences.
Dr. Carder has been practicing for over 20 years in general adult psychiatry. She is board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and has a certification in Elder Law. She has advanced training in psychopharmacology which she earned with distinction. She received her medical degree from the University of Toledo, College of Medicine and Life Sciences. She completed her internship with the Department of Family medicine and completed her residency with Department of Psychiatry both at the University of Toledo, College of Medicine and Life Sciences.
(513) 282-0269 View (513) 282-0269
Zionsville Ketamine - Christopher Dull, MD
Psychiatrist, MD, JD
Verified Verified
Carmel, IN 46032
Our wonderful patients come from all walks of life. They seek evaluation, treatment, and relief from depression or suicidal thoughts that are resistant to antidepressants and/or other medications. We care for patients either as their primary psychiatric provider or upon referral to us from other medical or therapy providers. We treat with Spravato (generic name esketamine) or ketamine. Even if patients decide they do not want ketamine-based treatment, we have other effective ways to help. We are a mental health clinic and that is our passion.
Our wonderful patients come from all walks of life. They seek evaluation, treatment, and relief from depression or suicidal thoughts that are resistant to antidepressants and/or other medications. We care for patients either as their primary psychiatric provider or upon referral to us from other medical or therapy providers. We treat with Spravato (generic name esketamine) or ketamine. Even if patients decide they do not want ketamine-based treatment, we have other effective ways to help. We are a mental health clinic and that is our passion.
(317) 720-3755 View (317) 720-3755
Photo of Adjust Mental Health , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Hamilton County, IN
Adjust Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fishers, IN 46038
We understand the frustrations that can come along with mental health treatment. Everything from “my provider doesn’t listen” to “I can’t afford this medication.” While we can’t solve all of the world’s problems in a single visit, we can guarantee that we put the patient first…ALWAYS. We have nearly two decades of combined experience caring for patients from all ages and backgrounds in both the inpatient and outpatient setting. We specialize in treating Anxiety, Depression, Mood Disorders, ADHD, and more!
We understand the frustrations that can come along with mental health treatment. Everything from “my provider doesn’t listen” to “I can’t afford this medication.” While we can’t solve all of the world’s problems in a single visit, we can guarantee that we put the patient first…ALWAYS. We have nearly two decades of combined experience caring for patients from all ages and backgrounds in both the inpatient and outpatient setting. We specialize in treating Anxiety, Depression, Mood Disorders, ADHD, and more!
(317) 790-2535 View (317) 790-2535

See more therapy options for Hamilton County


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.