Bipolar Disorder Psychiatrists in Northampton County, PA

Photo of Dr. Michael Rosen, Psychiatrist in Northampton County, PA
Dr. Michael Rosen
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Northampton, PA 18067
I have extensive experience in treating those with complex disorders, especially individuals with bipolar disorder, OCD, and psychotic disorders, as well as eating disorders, gender and sexual issues, autism spectrum disorder, and other developmental disorders, and perhaps my favorite condition to treat, ADHD.
The ideal client is quite simply someone who truly wants help. Someone who is willing to work where the goal is to live the best life, reach the goals one seeks, and to enjoy the journey. The details of how that is done of course depends on the individual's station at the time one seeks help.
I have extensive experience in treating those with complex disorders, especially individuals with bipolar disorder, OCD, and psychotic disorders, as well as eating disorders, gender and sexual issues, autism spectrum disorder, and other developmental disorders, and perhaps my favorite condition to treat, ADHD.
The ideal client is quite simply someone who truly wants help. Someone who is willing to work where the goal is to live the best life, reach the goals one seeks, and to enjoy the journey. The details of how that is done of course depends on the individual's station at the time one seeks help.
(717) 937-8709 View (717) 937-8709
Photo of Afanwingong C Lafon, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Northampton County, PA
Afanwingong C Lafon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC, AGNP-C
Verified Verified
Bethlehem, PA 18020
She treats various mental health concerns, including Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Eating Disorders, OCD, and ADHD, among others.
You deserve to live a life that leaves you excited to wake up every morning.” Hi, my name is Afanwingong Lafon, and I am here to support you. I am an ANCC board-certified psychiatric mental health Nurse practitioner and an adult-gerontology Nurse practitioner. She graduated from the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley and Maryville University. She endeavors to provide individualized, patient-centered and for each individual's mental health goals as well as helping them achieve a full life while incorporating cultural awareness in each individualized care and plan.
She treats various mental health concerns, including Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Eating Disorders, OCD, and ADHD, among others.
You deserve to live a life that leaves you excited to wake up every morning.” Hi, my name is Afanwingong Lafon, and I am here to support you. I am an ANCC board-certified psychiatric mental health Nurse practitioner and an adult-gerontology Nurse practitioner. She graduated from the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley and Maryville University. She endeavors to provide individualized, patient-centered and for each individual's mental health goals as well as helping them achieve a full life while incorporating cultural awareness in each individualized care and plan.
(610) 801-1970 View (610) 801-1970
Photo of Millmark Health Inc, Psychiatrist in Northampton County, PA
Millmark Health Inc
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Easton, PA 18040
Dr. Asif is a licensed physician and board certified psychiatrist by The American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. He provides medication management and psychotherapy via telemedicine for adults across the State of Pennsylvania. He treats patients with a wide variety of psychiatric diagnoses including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and others.
Dr. Asif is a licensed physician and board certified psychiatrist by The American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. He provides medication management and psychotherapy via telemedicine for adults across the State of Pennsylvania. He treats patients with a wide variety of psychiatric diagnoses including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and others.
(570) 673-0738 View (570) 673-0738
Photo of Dana Leshok, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Northampton County, PA
Dana Leshok
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bethlehem, PA 18017  (Online Only)
Dana Leshok is a double Board-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-BC) and a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 10 years of collective experience in the field. Before entering the field as a clinician, she was a Registered Nurse (RN) for over 15 years. Dana is dedicated to treating adolescents, adults, and seniors experiencing a wide variety of mental health concerns, including but not limited to, depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, sleep/insomnia, panic disorders, substance addiction, and bipolar disorder.
Dana Leshok is a double Board-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-BC) and a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 10 years of collective experience in the field. Before entering the field as a clinician, she was a Registered Nurse (RN) for over 15 years. Dana is dedicated to treating adolescents, adults, and seniors experiencing a wide variety of mental health concerns, including but not limited to, depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, sleep/insomnia, panic disorders, substance addiction, and bipolar disorder.
(484) 759-9324 View (484) 759-9324
Photo of Austin Reed, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Northampton County, PA
Austin Reed
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bethlehem, PA 18015
I treat using a patient-centered approach where patients play an active role in the management of their mental health. Mental health conditions can be effectively treated and an optimal state of wellness can be achieved by establishing a therapeutic partnership in approaching the management of your care. By incorporating empowerment and psychoeducation I will provide you with the tools needed to effectively manage your mental health. I treat and manage all mental health disorders, including mood/anxiety disorders, adjustment disorders, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia spectrum disorders, PTSD, and personality disorders.
I treat using a patient-centered approach where patients play an active role in the management of their mental health. Mental health conditions can be effectively treated and an optimal state of wellness can be achieved by establishing a therapeutic partnership in approaching the management of your care. By incorporating empowerment and psychoeducation I will provide you with the tools needed to effectively manage your mental health. I treat and manage all mental health disorders, including mood/anxiety disorders, adjustment disorders, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia spectrum disorders, PTSD, and personality disorders.
(484) 787-5436 View (484) 787-5436
Photo of Dr. Chenhang Zou, Psychiatrist in Northampton County, PA
Dr. Chenhang Zou
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Bethlehem, PA 18018
Dr. Zou is welcoming new patients seeking specialized treatment for anxiety, depression, trauma, OCD, bipolar disorder, and other psychiatric concerns. As a holistic psychiatrist, Dr. Zou draws from a wide-ranging toolbox of treatment options - including psychotherapy, psycho-education and lifestyle adaptations in addition to medication where appropriate. Consequently, patients benefit from a well-integrated approach to care that is both systematic and thorough.
Dr. Zou is welcoming new patients seeking specialized treatment for anxiety, depression, trauma, OCD, bipolar disorder, and other psychiatric concerns. As a holistic psychiatrist, Dr. Zou draws from a wide-ranging toolbox of treatment options - including psychotherapy, psycho-education and lifestyle adaptations in addition to medication where appropriate. Consequently, patients benefit from a well-integrated approach to care that is both systematic and thorough.
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Photo of Elizabeth Pak- Impak Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Northampton County, PA
Elizabeth Pak- Impak Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lehigh Valley, PA 18001
New clients with insurances are accepted! My name is Elizabeth, and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I practice in the state of Pennsylvania. I provide psychiatric medication management for treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, postpartum mental conditions, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, insomnia, among other psychiatric conditions. During the initial evaluation, we will discuss history and symptoms to gain clarity on diagnosis to guide our treatment plan moving forward. Please visit my website at impakpsychiatry.com.
New clients with insurances are accepted! My name is Elizabeth, and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I practice in the state of Pennsylvania. I provide psychiatric medication management for treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, postpartum mental conditions, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, insomnia, among other psychiatric conditions. During the initial evaluation, we will discuss history and symptoms to gain clarity on diagnosis to guide our treatment plan moving forward. Please visit my website at impakpsychiatry.com.
(267) 360-7312 View (267) 360-7312
Photo of Renae DeFreitas, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Northampton County, PA
Renae DeFreitas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Bethlehem, PA 18018
She provides medication management to individuals ages six and above and treats Anxiety Disorders, Major Depressive Disorder, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, Bipolar Disorders, among others.
Renae is an ANCC board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with an additional board-certification as a family nurse practitioner. She is a graduate of both DeSales University and Wilkes University and is passionate about providing empathetic, individualized care to her patients. Utilizing her background in both family and psychiatric health, she approaches her patients in a compassionate and holistic manner. She encourages open discussion with patients to determine their needs and goals for treatment, and she incorporates each patient in their treatment plan to assist them in achieving healthier, balanced lives.
She provides medication management to individuals ages six and above and treats Anxiety Disorders, Major Depressive Disorder, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, Bipolar Disorders, among others.
Renae is an ANCC board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with an additional board-certification as a family nurse practitioner. She is a graduate of both DeSales University and Wilkes University and is passionate about providing empathetic, individualized care to her patients. Utilizing her background in both family and psychiatric health, she approaches her patients in a compassionate and holistic manner. She encourages open discussion with patients to determine their needs and goals for treatment, and she incorporates each patient in their treatment plan to assist them in achieving healthier, balanced lives.
(610) 600-6190 View (610) 600-6190
Photo of Saundra Hyman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Northampton County, PA
Saundra Hyman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, MSN/MEd, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lehigh Valley, PA 18001
Specialties include Bipolar, Schizophrenia , Major Depression , Anxiety Disorders and Attention Deficit.
I am a Doctorate prepared Board Certified Nurse Practitioner. I saw a need for better mental health services. I attended University of Cincinnati and became a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My goal is to strengthen and improve the lives of our clients by delivering exceptional mental health care tailored to meet their needs, and to educate our community about mental health and mental illness while working to eliminate stigma, labels and prejudice. I am dedicated to helping individuals lead mentally healthy lives. I believe that to achieve optimal health we must make a commitment to care for mind, body, and spirit.
Specialties include Bipolar, Schizophrenia , Major Depression , Anxiety Disorders and Attention Deficit.
I am a Doctorate prepared Board Certified Nurse Practitioner. I saw a need for better mental health services. I attended University of Cincinnati and became a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My goal is to strengthen and improve the lives of our clients by delivering exceptional mental health care tailored to meet their needs, and to educate our community about mental health and mental illness while working to eliminate stigma, labels and prejudice. I am dedicated to helping individuals lead mentally healthy lives. I believe that to achieve optimal health we must make a commitment to care for mind, body, and spirit.
(215) 544-2391 View (215) 544-2391
Photo of Nichelle Jones, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Northampton County, PA
Nichelle Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP , PMHNP
Verified Verified
Northampton, PA 18067
My ideal client is dealing with a mental concern that is causing them distress that they are seeking relief from. They are looking for someone who will listen to their concerns and work with them to develop an individualized treatment plan that aligns with their unique goals. They seek a safe, nonjudgmental environment with a trustworthy provider to deliver quality care. Hi, my name is Nichelle and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have over 10 years of clinical experience in treating psychiatric disorders and specialize in treating major depression, anxiety disorder, mood disorders, PTSD & ADHD.
My ideal client is dealing with a mental concern that is causing them distress that they are seeking relief from. They are looking for someone who will listen to their concerns and work with them to develop an individualized treatment plan that aligns with their unique goals. They seek a safe, nonjudgmental environment with a trustworthy provider to deliver quality care. Hi, my name is Nichelle and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have over 10 years of clinical experience in treating psychiatric disorders and specialize in treating major depression, anxiety disorder, mood disorders, PTSD & ADHD.
(484) 739-1085 View (484) 739-1085
Photo of Ethos Clinic, Psychiatrist in Northampton County, PA
Ethos Clinic
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Bethlehem, PA 18015
A holistic approach to wellness, including emotional, physical and spiritual health. A central focus of Ethos is our encouragement of mindfulness, meditation, spirituality and healthy living in general for all of our patients. We can either refer our patients to these therapies or provide guidance onsite. Medications, therapy and various other modalities mentioned above are used as an appropriate part of your treatment plan. Regardless of the treatment recommended in your plan, our goal is healing through a holistic and balanced approach to wellness
A holistic approach to wellness, including emotional, physical and spiritual health. A central focus of Ethos is our encouragement of mindfulness, meditation, spirituality and healthy living in general for all of our patients. We can either refer our patients to these therapies or provide guidance onsite. Medications, therapy and various other modalities mentioned above are used as an appropriate part of your treatment plan. Regardless of the treatment recommended in your plan, our goal is healing through a holistic and balanced approach to wellness
(484) 232-5288 View (484) 232-5288
Photo of Muhamad Aly Rifai, Psychiatrist in Northampton County, PA
Muhamad Aly Rifai
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA, FACP, FACLP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Easton, PA 18042
Blue Mountain Psychiatry under the direction of Dr. Rifai provides comprehensive premium care integrating a thorough medical workup, psychotherapy and medication treatments. We also provide non-medication treatment options including Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation. We are a center for excellence in providing Ketamine treatments. Dr. Rifai is board certified in Internal Medicine, Psychiatry, Psychosomatic Medicine and Medical Management and has practiced in the Greater Lehigh Valley for more than 20 years. Dr. Rifai currently serves as the president of the Lehigh Valley psychiatric Society
Blue Mountain Psychiatry under the direction of Dr. Rifai provides comprehensive premium care integrating a thorough medical workup, psychotherapy and medication treatments. We also provide non-medication treatment options including Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation. We are a center for excellence in providing Ketamine treatments. Dr. Rifai is board certified in Internal Medicine, Psychiatry, Psychosomatic Medicine and Medical Management and has practiced in the Greater Lehigh Valley for more than 20 years. Dr. Rifai currently serves as the president of the Lehigh Valley psychiatric Society
(610) 816-6383 View (610) 816-6383
Photo of Michelle Zuccarini, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Northampton County, PA
Michelle Zuccarini
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bethlehem, PA 18015  (Online Only)
Michelle Zuccarini is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She received her undergraduate and master's degree in nursing as well as a post-master's certification as Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Drexel University in Philadelphia, PA. and obtained board certification in this specialty from the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). She is licensed to practice in the states of New Jersey and Pennsylvania. Michelle was awarded a doctoral degree in Nursing Practice from Clarion-Edinboro University of Pennsylvania.
Michelle Zuccarini is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She received her undergraduate and master's degree in nursing as well as a post-master's certification as Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Drexel University in Philadelphia, PA. and obtained board certification in this specialty from the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). She is licensed to practice in the states of New Jersey and Pennsylvania. Michelle was awarded a doctoral degree in Nursing Practice from Clarion-Edinboro University of Pennsylvania.
(484) 715-8488 View (484) 715-8488
Photo of Carolyn Jackson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Northampton County, PA
Carolyn Jackson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Bethlehem, PA 18015
Carolyn Jackson is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She received her master's degree from Wilkes University. Her degree specializes in psychiatry across the lifespan. Carolyn offers diagnostic evaluations and medication management to those ages 13 and older. Her approach to treatment is patient-centered, evidence-based, and collaborative. She has special interests in treating Anxiety Disorders, Depression, Mood disorders. Schizophrenia/Schizoaffective disorders and Minority Mental Health.
Carolyn Jackson is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She received her master's degree from Wilkes University. Her degree specializes in psychiatry across the lifespan. Carolyn offers diagnostic evaluations and medication management to those ages 13 and older. Her approach to treatment is patient-centered, evidence-based, and collaborative. She has special interests in treating Anxiety Disorders, Depression, Mood disorders. Schizophrenia/Schizoaffective disorders and Minority Mental Health.
(484) 613-3411 View (484) 613-3411
Photo of Christine Arezzi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Northampton County, PA
Christine Arezzi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bethlehem, PA 18015
Christine Arezzi is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2022. She has a Bachelor of Science in Psychology, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, a Master's of Science in Nursing, and a Post-Masters Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing-Across the Lifespan. First and foremost, Christine listens to you. She provides a safe space to voice your concerns and takes the time to understand. Christine provides a holistic approach to treatment by encompassing a client's personal preferences with the knowledge of the latest evidence-based treatments for mental health.
Christine Arezzi is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2022. She has a Bachelor of Science in Psychology, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, a Master's of Science in Nursing, and a Post-Masters Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing-Across the Lifespan. First and foremost, Christine listens to you. She provides a safe space to voice your concerns and takes the time to understand. Christine provides a holistic approach to treatment by encompassing a client's personal preferences with the knowledge of the latest evidence-based treatments for mental health.
(484) 255-4986 View (484) 255-4986
Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, Psychiatrist in Northampton County, PA
Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Northampton, PA 18067
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
(717) 883-6316 View (717) 883-6316
Photo of Mahmoud Elfatah, Psychiatrist in Northampton County, PA
Mahmoud Elfatah
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Bethlehem, PA 18015
Dr. Mahmoud Elfatah is a Psychiatrist in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2009. Dr. Elfatah believes that helping others to better their quality of life makes him happy. It's a win-win equation! Outside of work, Dr. Elfatah enjoys philosophy and politics.
Dr. Mahmoud Elfatah is a Psychiatrist in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2009. Dr. Elfatah believes that helping others to better their quality of life makes him happy. It's a win-win equation! Outside of work, Dr. Elfatah enjoys philosophy and politics.
(484) 946-4293 View (484) 946-4293
Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, Psychiatrist in Northampton County, PA
Dr. Allen Masry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Northampton, PA 18067
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
(717) 971-4564 View (717) 971-4564
Photo of Angelic Helpers Behavioral Health Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Northampton County, PA
Angelic Helpers Behavioral Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN-C, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Easton, PA 18042
Life is full of challenges, obstacles, and disequilibrium. Are you feeling depressed, anxious, or given up hope about a better future? Utilizing a holistic approach that combines treating the physical and emotional, I am able to help you maximize your potential, and live a life that is fulfilling and rewarding. Have you been diagnosed or are you a survivor of a life-changing illness? I am able to help you emotionally while you recover physically.
Life is full of challenges, obstacles, and disequilibrium. Are you feeling depressed, anxious, or given up hope about a better future? Utilizing a holistic approach that combines treating the physical and emotional, I am able to help you maximize your potential, and live a life that is fulfilling and rewarding. Have you been diagnosed or are you a survivor of a life-changing illness? I am able to help you emotionally while you recover physically.
(973) 493-6857 View (973) 493-6857
Photo of Wendy Ann Reiss, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Northampton County, PA
Wendy Ann Reiss
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Easton, PA 18040  (Online Only)
Wendy specializes in Depression, Anxiety and Addiction. She has been trained across lifespan, which allows her to treat patients of all ages. She will be your ally in your quest for well-being and balance. Wendy believes utilizing a holistic approach to wellness including emotional and physical health. She strives to provide culturally informed, and patient centered care tailored to each individual needs. Currently we are accepting new patients.
Wendy specializes in Depression, Anxiety and Addiction. She has been trained across lifespan, which allows her to treat patients of all ages. She will be your ally in your quest for well-being and balance. Wendy believes utilizing a holistic approach to wellness including emotional and physical health. She strives to provide culturally informed, and patient centered care tailored to each individual needs. Currently we are accepting new patients.
(908) 386-5112 View (908) 386-5112

See more therapy options for Northampton 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.