Photo of Sonia Nikolova, Psychiatric Nurse in Seattle, WA
Sonia Nikolova
Psychiatric Nurse, MN, ARNP, ACT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98102
Due to my integrated approach, I generally combine prescribing with psychotherapy for Bipolar, ADHD, Depression, Anxiety and Panic, PTSD, OCD.
Accepting New Patients for Medication Management within 1-2 weeks. I offer an integrated approach of expert medication management and psychotherapy to adults. I will work with you towards clear goals to achieve mental wellness. I recommend medications if they are helpful for your healing, but I see them as only one part towards mental wellness. I aspire to create a sense of safety through empathy and non-judgment that will help us explore your challenges and facilitate healing.
Due to my integrated approach, I generally combine prescribing with psychotherapy for Bipolar, ADHD, Depression, Anxiety and Panic, PTSD, OCD.
Accepting New Patients for Medication Management within 1-2 weeks. I offer an integrated approach of expert medication management and psychotherapy to adults. I will work with you towards clear goals to achieve mental wellness. I recommend medications if they are helpful for your healing, but I see them as only one part towards mental wellness. I aspire to create a sense of safety through empathy and non-judgment that will help us explore your challenges and facilitate healing.
(206) 745-3021 View (206) 745-3021
Photo of Karen Ni, Psychiatrist in Seattle, WA
Karen Ni
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98121  (Online Only)
I treat depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, OCD, panic attacks, social phobia, mood swings, and more.
Currently, I see patients via telemedicine in my private practice. I am a board certified psychiatrist and completed my psychiatry residency at the University of Washington after finishing medical school at the University of California, San Diego. My experience ranges from a private practice in Seattle to overseeing community mental health centers as a behavioral health and medical director. I have worked in inpatient units in WA, AK, and USVI, and as a psychiatrist for the US Foreign Service. I am a Diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology.
I treat depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, OCD, panic attacks, social phobia, mood swings, and more.
Currently, I see patients via telemedicine in my private practice. I am a board certified psychiatrist and completed my psychiatry residency at the University of Washington after finishing medical school at the University of California, San Diego. My experience ranges from a private practice in Seattle to overseeing community mental health centers as a behavioral health and medical director. I have worked in inpatient units in WA, AK, and USVI, and as a psychiatrist for the US Foreign Service. I am a Diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology.
(206) 895-4075 View (206) 895-4075
Photo of Jibran Ahmed, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Seattle, WA
Jibran Ahmed
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98125
While my work is in general psychiatry, I have an interest in schizophrenia, depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, and eating disorders.
I'm passionate about the importance of people having easy access to mental healthcare. Before joining the healthcare field, I taught in low-income and underserved communities. Seeing the impact that a lack of mental healthcare had in these areas drove me to return to school and begin a career focused on providing that much-needed care. In my eyes, treatment can significantly increase the quality of life both mentally as well as physically.
While my work is in general psychiatry, I have an interest in schizophrenia, depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, and eating disorders.
I'm passionate about the importance of people having easy access to mental healthcare. Before joining the healthcare field, I taught in low-income and underserved communities. Seeing the impact that a lack of mental healthcare had in these areas drove me to return to school and begin a career focused on providing that much-needed care. In my eyes, treatment can significantly increase the quality of life both mentally as well as physically.
(206) 984-3618 View (206) 984-3618
Photo of Dr. Jade Goodloe, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Seattle, WA
Dr. Jade Goodloe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103  (Online Only)
We are currently welcoming new patients for Telehealth appointments. As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I specialize in the diagnostic assessment, medication management, & therapeutic treatment of Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, OCD, & PTSD. Given my background as an active-duty service member & psychiatry provider, I additionally specialize in military & veteran mental health. I treat adults of all backgrounds, 18 years & older located throughout the state.
We are currently welcoming new patients for Telehealth appointments. As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I specialize in the diagnostic assessment, medication management, & therapeutic treatment of Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, OCD, & PTSD. Given my background as an active-duty service member & psychiatry provider, I additionally specialize in military & veteran mental health. I treat adults of all backgrounds, 18 years & older located throughout the state.
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Photo of Pw Psych NP Services Pllc, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Seattle, WA
Pw Psych NP Services Pllc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MA, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98121  (Online Only)
I offer Psychiatrc Evaluation and Medication Management via telehealth in the confort of your home,Treating depression, bipolar, anxiety, and ADHD and more; we can analyze the issue together.
About the Provider: I am a Board Certified, Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, (PMHNP-BC). I obtained my prfessional degree from Walden University. Over the years, I had professional affiliations with reputable mental health facilities including Bakersfield behavior, John George psych and more. I treat children and adults affected by various mental illness with care and compassion. I utilize Evidence Based Practice model to make treatment choices. I am specialized in treating ADHD, depression, anxiety and mood instability. Stimulant and non stimulant treatment are available. I do conduct ADHD screening and testing before treatment.
I offer Psychiatrc Evaluation and Medication Management via telehealth in the confort of your home,Treating depression, bipolar, anxiety, and ADHD and more; we can analyze the issue together.
About the Provider: I am a Board Certified, Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, (PMHNP-BC). I obtained my prfessional degree from Walden University. Over the years, I had professional affiliations with reputable mental health facilities including Bakersfield behavior, John George psych and more. I treat children and adults affected by various mental illness with care and compassion. I utilize Evidence Based Practice model to make treatment choices. I am specialized in treating ADHD, depression, anxiety and mood instability. Stimulant and non stimulant treatment are available. I do conduct ADHD screening and testing before treatment.
(206) 829-6563 View (206) 829-6563
Photo of Mindful Health Solutions, Psychiatrist in Seattle, WA
Mindful Health Solutions
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98125
I see adults for general psychiatry and is happy to help patients with major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, PTSD, and other conditions.
I take a collaborative approach with my patients. I like to know what my patients’ goals are so I can tailor the treatment to help them achieve their goals as much as possible. Knowing what’s important to my patients helps me know what treatments to recommend or when to suggest a change to the treatment. I find that patients experience the most success if they are open to talking about their treatment options.
I see adults for general psychiatry and is happy to help patients with major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, PTSD, and other conditions.
I take a collaborative approach with my patients. I like to know what my patients’ goals are so I can tailor the treatment to help them achieve their goals as much as possible. Knowing what’s important to my patients helps me know what treatments to recommend or when to suggest a change to the treatment. I find that patients experience the most success if they are open to talking about their treatment options.
(206) 222-6136 View (206) 222-6136
Photo of Advanced Wellness Mental Health, PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Seattle, WA
Advanced Wellness Mental Health, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN/Ed, MSN, ARNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98101  (Online Only)
We specialize in treating depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, OCD, ADHD/ADD, sleep and more.
We are currently accepting patients via telehealth. Online appointments are conducted from the comfort of your home or private work space, using secure video chat technology. We have two board certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners, Chandra Cogburn and Shanti Herzog. We provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, and psychiatric medication management treatment. Medication appointments are typically accompanied by brief counseling where we focus on achieving your overall health goals. We encourage people to also have a primary talk therapist for more comprehensive therapy. We see ages 5 and above to adult.
We specialize in treating depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, OCD, ADHD/ADD, sleep and more.
We are currently accepting patients via telehealth. Online appointments are conducted from the comfort of your home or private work space, using secure video chat technology. We have two board certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners, Chandra Cogburn and Shanti Herzog. We provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, and psychiatric medication management treatment. Medication appointments are typically accompanied by brief counseling where we focus on achieving your overall health goals. We encourage people to also have a primary talk therapist for more comprehensive therapy. We see ages 5 and above to adult.
(425) 310-4239 View (425) 310-4239
Photo of Nina Chandler, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Seattle, WA
Nina Chandler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98101  (Online Only)
Nina Chandler provides comprehensive psychiatric care for all ages, focusing on wellness and collaboration, and has expertise in women’s mental health, especially postpartum mood disorders, adolescent mental health, depression, anxiety, OCD, Bipolar Spectrum Disorders, and management of severe and persistent mental health conditions.
Nina Chandler provides comprehensive psychiatric care for all ages, focusing on wellness and collaboration, and has expertise in women’s mental health, especially postpartum mood disorders, adolescent mental health, depression, anxiety, OCD, Bipolar Spectrum Disorders, and management of severe and persistent mental health conditions.
(425) 584-5462 View (425) 584-5462
Photo of Dr. Celina Egemasi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Seattle, WA
Dr. Celina Egemasi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, NP-C, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98119  (Online Only)
Dr. Celina Egemasi is a Dual Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner who is qualified to practice in both primary care and psychiatry; diagnose, treat and prescribe medication for children, adolescents, adults and elderly. Some of her practice specialties include (but not limited to) Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, and Schizophrenia. She graduated from Walden University with her Family Nurse Practitioner degree and Brandman University with her Doctorate of Nursing Practice and Post Masters in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner degree. Dr. Egemasi is part of Sigma Theta Tau nursing honor society and Golden Key International
Dr. Celina Egemasi is a Dual Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner who is qualified to practice in both primary care and psychiatry; diagnose, treat and prescribe medication for children, adolescents, adults and elderly. Some of her practice specialties include (but not limited to) Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, and Schizophrenia. She graduated from Walden University with her Family Nurse Practitioner degree and Brandman University with her Doctorate of Nursing Practice and Post Masters in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner degree. Dr. Egemasi is part of Sigma Theta Tau nursing honor society and Golden Key International
(509) 300-4795 View (509) 300-4795
Photo of Euhealth Psychiatry & Mental Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Seattle, WA
Euhealth Psychiatry & Mental Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, LPC, CADC-I
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98133
Accepting New Clients. Welcome to EuHealth Psychiatry and Mental Wellness, your sanctuary for achieving comprehensive mental wellness through medication mgmt & therapy. We serve Oregon and Washington State residents and make your life easier with flexible evening and weekend telehealth appointments. At EuHealth, 'good health' isn't merely a phrase—it's a complete lifestyle with mental peace. Are emotional challenges, sleep disruptions, or issues with focus derailing your progress in school, work, or relationships? Distinctive in my approach, We bring a unique cultural and linguistic dimension to psychiatric care.
Accepting New Clients. Welcome to EuHealth Psychiatry and Mental Wellness, your sanctuary for achieving comprehensive mental wellness through medication mgmt & therapy. We serve Oregon and Washington State residents and make your life easier with flexible evening and weekend telehealth appointments. At EuHealth, 'good health' isn't merely a phrase—it's a complete lifestyle with mental peace. Are emotional challenges, sleep disruptions, or issues with focus derailing your progress in school, work, or relationships? Distinctive in my approach, We bring a unique cultural and linguistic dimension to psychiatric care.
(503) 300-6709 View (503) 300-6709
Photo of Mindful Health Solutions, Psychiatrist in Seattle, WA
Mindful Health Solutions
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98125
My ideal patient is someone who is willing to collaborate with me to create the best treatment plan possible for their unique needs. I enjoy answering questions so each patient understands the process. I also aspire to be a supportive ally for patients who are LGBTQIA+ or from any other minority community.
My ideal patient is someone who is willing to collaborate with me to create the best treatment plan possible for their unique needs. I enjoy answering questions so each patient understands the process. I also aspire to be a supportive ally for patients who are LGBTQIA+ or from any other minority community.
(206) 590-4271 View (206) 590-4271
Photo of David G Zacharias, Psychiatrist in Seattle, WA
David G Zacharias
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98112  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Mayo Clinic and Harvard-trained psychiatrist with over 20 years of experience working in healthcare. I discovered a love for the humanities—notably literature and philosophy—early in life due to the profound way in which they helped me to understand and appreciate the human condition. This eventually merged with an interest in medicine and a desire to help improve people's lives. My interactions with patients tend to be relational and existentially-oriented, focusing heavily on personal growth and empowerment within a larger context of meaning and values.
I am a Mayo Clinic and Harvard-trained psychiatrist with over 20 years of experience working in healthcare. I discovered a love for the humanities—notably literature and philosophy—early in life due to the profound way in which they helped me to understand and appreciate the human condition. This eventually merged with an interest in medicine and a desire to help improve people's lives. My interactions with patients tend to be relational and existentially-oriented, focusing heavily on personal growth and empowerment within a larger context of meaning and values.
(206) 565-0232 View (206) 565-0232
Photo of Cassandra Castro, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Seattle, WA
Cassandra Castro
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98115
Whether you are struggling with everyday life or living with chronic illness, my passion is your wellness. I work with clients across the lifespan, because no matter where you are at in your walk in life, you are worthy of help. I work off of the recovery model with a firm belief in the unique path to healing of each individual. No one size fits all and I am here to discover with you what works, with support all the way.
Whether you are struggling with everyday life or living with chronic illness, my passion is your wellness. I work with clients across the lifespan, because no matter where you are at in your walk in life, you are worthy of help. I work off of the recovery model with a firm belief in the unique path to healing of each individual. No one size fits all and I am here to discover with you what works, with support all the way.
(206) 678-0595 View (206) 678-0595
Photo of Dr. Mark Ellestad, Psychiatrist in Seattle, WA
Dr. Mark Ellestad
Psychiatrist, MD, ABPN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103  (Online Only)
Hi! I am a Notre Dame and University of Washington trained addiction and integrative psychiatrist who believes that connection and compassion are at the heart of psychiatry. I integrate holistic approaches with scientifically proven methods and focus on delivering personalized treatment for depression, anxiety, ADHD, and trauma for people who might also struggle with chronic medical conditions, chronic pain, or addiction. My practice is not limited to treating just these conditions. As a gay psychiatrist, I also have lived-experience of the challenges LGBTQIA+ individuals face. I connect and enjoy working with this community.
Hi! I am a Notre Dame and University of Washington trained addiction and integrative psychiatrist who believes that connection and compassion are at the heart of psychiatry. I integrate holistic approaches with scientifically proven methods and focus on delivering personalized treatment for depression, anxiety, ADHD, and trauma for people who might also struggle with chronic medical conditions, chronic pain, or addiction. My practice is not limited to treating just these conditions. As a gay psychiatrist, I also have lived-experience of the challenges LGBTQIA+ individuals face. I connect and enjoy working with this community.
(206) 752-4681 View (206) 752-4681
Photo of Diana Woodall, Psychiatrist in Seattle, WA
Diana Woodall
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98117  (Online Only)
SAME/ NEXT Week Appointments - I am a board certified psychiatrist committed to providing individualized care to each patient, with an emphasis on empathetic listening and collaboration. My goal in working with patients is to empower each individual to harness their unique strengths and to foster self-actualization and resiliency. My treatment approach is integrative, often combining various modalities including medications, psychotherapy, medical/diagnostic labwork, nutrition, exercise, and other wellness focused approaches catered to each individual's values.
SAME/ NEXT Week Appointments - I am a board certified psychiatrist committed to providing individualized care to each patient, with an emphasis on empathetic listening and collaboration. My goal in working with patients is to empower each individual to harness their unique strengths and to foster self-actualization and resiliency. My treatment approach is integrative, often combining various modalities including medications, psychotherapy, medical/diagnostic labwork, nutrition, exercise, and other wellness focused approaches catered to each individual's values.
(206) 759-2259 View (206) 759-2259
Photo of Aaron Newman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Seattle, WA
Aaron Newman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98107  (Online Only)
As a board certified Psychiatric Mental health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), I specialize in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health conditions for children and adults. While proficient in all mental, emotional challenges, my specialties include anxiety, stress management, depression, OCD, PTSD, insomnia, and ADHD treatment. Additionally, I am also a Family Nurse Practitioner and Chiropractor, which allows me to see patients with mold illness, weight loss, hypothyroid, auto-immunity, and other metabolic complaints. I often teach my unique approach to students and providers and practice true, integrative care.
As a board certified Psychiatric Mental health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), I specialize in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health conditions for children and adults. While proficient in all mental, emotional challenges, my specialties include anxiety, stress management, depression, OCD, PTSD, insomnia, and ADHD treatment. Additionally, I am also a Family Nurse Practitioner and Chiropractor, which allows me to see patients with mold illness, weight loss, hypothyroid, auto-immunity, and other metabolic complaints. I often teach my unique approach to students and providers and practice true, integrative care.
(503) 751-8662 View (503) 751-8662
Photo of Revolution Psychiatric and Addiction Treatment, Psychiatrist in Seattle, WA
Revolution Psychiatric and Addiction Treatment
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98116
Mental health is brain health. We need to appreciate the human being as a complex organism in a complex environment. Our practice is centered on prioritizing health and true perspective, allowing problems to be better defined, and real solutions developed. This is the Revolution. In addition to general psychiatric evaluation and management, we employ IV NAD+ for safe outpatient detoxification from alcohol, opioids, and other drugs. Because of its natural healing effects, NAD+ is also used to optimize health, mental and physical, and therefore treats other neurodegenerative disorders.
Mental health is brain health. We need to appreciate the human being as a complex organism in a complex environment. Our practice is centered on prioritizing health and true perspective, allowing problems to be better defined, and real solutions developed. This is the Revolution. In addition to general psychiatric evaluation and management, we employ IV NAD+ for safe outpatient detoxification from alcohol, opioids, and other drugs. Because of its natural healing effects, NAD+ is also used to optimize health, mental and physical, and therefore treats other neurodegenerative disorders.
(425) 399-5842 View (425) 399-5842
Photo of Kimberly Monestime, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Seattle, WA
Kimberly Monestime
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98111  (Online Only)
Accepting New Patients at TeleNP Health! Visit our website to access an appointment. Taking the first step, isn't always easy, but you made it this far! My main goal is to help patients identify & conquer the hurdles that stand in their way to a happy, fulfilled, & purposeful life. Feeling constantly tired, stuck, overwhelmed, having a hard time sleeping? Maybe the list goes on, but you do not have to live this way. Currently offering telepsychiatry services for Adolescents, College Mental Health, & Adults.
Accepting New Patients at TeleNP Health! Visit our website to access an appointment. Taking the first step, isn't always easy, but you made it this far! My main goal is to help patients identify & conquer the hurdles that stand in their way to a happy, fulfilled, & purposeful life. Feeling constantly tired, stuck, overwhelmed, having a hard time sleeping? Maybe the list goes on, but you do not have to live this way. Currently offering telepsychiatry services for Adolescents, College Mental Health, & Adults.
(973) 434-5030 View (973) 434-5030
Photo of Scott L. Wiener M.D. @Prisma Wellness, Psychiatrist in Seattle, WA
Scott L. Wiener M.D. @Prisma Wellness
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98199
Psychiatrists are the only doctors who don't look inside the body to assess a problem. Think about it; all other doctors use imaging and labs to look inside a person’s body when making a diagnosis. That coupled with your symptoms is how they determine what the problem is. Unfortunately, mental health providers have learned that how a person feels is their only tool in assessing somebody. Because of this, psychiatrists often have no idea what’s causing the problem. This limits the treatment options to a prescribed “band-aid" that is used to reduce symptoms, instead of addressing the underlying cause of a problem.
Psychiatrists are the only doctors who don't look inside the body to assess a problem. Think about it; all other doctors use imaging and labs to look inside a person’s body when making a diagnosis. That coupled with your symptoms is how they determine what the problem is. Unfortunately, mental health providers have learned that how a person feels is their only tool in assessing somebody. Because of this, psychiatrists often have no idea what’s causing the problem. This limits the treatment options to a prescribed “band-aid" that is used to reduce symptoms, instead of addressing the underlying cause of a problem.
(206) 208-2920 View (206) 208-2920
Photo of April JoAnn Matzenbacher, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Seattle, WA
April JoAnn Matzenbacher
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98110
The greatest lesson that I have received in my role as a healthcare professional is that most human suffering is rooted in emotional and cognitive difficulty. These challenges often stem from pain or trauma, typically early in our development. The mind is an organ like any other in the body; as such, it needs care and healing from time to time! Often, the most impactful modality one can offer is that of human empathy and kindness. My fervent hope is to assist those who suffer to attain strength, resiliency, and inner peace.
The greatest lesson that I have received in my role as a healthcare professional is that most human suffering is rooted in emotional and cognitive difficulty. These challenges often stem from pain or trauma, typically early in our development. The mind is an organ like any other in the body; as such, it needs care and healing from time to time! Often, the most impactful modality one can offer is that of human empathy and kindness. My fervent hope is to assist those who suffer to attain strength, resiliency, and inner peace.
(360) 800-1705 View (360) 800-1705
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.