Bipolar Disorder Psychiatrists in San Francisco, CA

Photo of Dr. Jordan Wong, Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Dr. Jordan Wong
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Online Only
These conditions include (but are not limited to): primary mood disorders (including pediatric bipolar disorder), ADHD, anxiety disorders, primary psychotic disorders, LGBTQ+ related challenges, Gender Dysphoria, Neurodivergence.
I am a board-certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist that completed medical training at Stanford (child & adolescent psychiatry fellowship), Columbia (general psychiatry residency), and Dartmouth (medical school). I opened a private psychiatric practice to provide evidence-based, collaborative, individualized care, and (most importantly) a strong therapeutic relationship with all of my patients. I specialize working with children, adolescents, and young adults.
These conditions include (but are not limited to): primary mood disorders (including pediatric bipolar disorder), ADHD, anxiety disorders, primary psychotic disorders, LGBTQ+ related challenges, Gender Dysphoria, Neurodivergence.
I am a board-certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist that completed medical training at Stanford (child & adolescent psychiatry fellowship), Columbia (general psychiatry residency), and Dartmouth (medical school). I opened a private psychiatric practice to provide evidence-based, collaborative, individualized care, and (most importantly) a strong therapeutic relationship with all of my patients. I specialize working with children, adolescents, and young adults.
(415) 417-2091 View (415) 417-2091
Photo of Elio Pedroso Conroy, Psychiatrist, MD
Elio Pedroso Conroy
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Conroy is particularly interested in working with individuals with depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, PTSD and ADHD.
Elio Pedroso Conroy, MD, located in Napa Valley, is a board-certified Adult Psychiatrist licensed in California. Dr. Conroy attended medical school in Brazil, where he is originally from. He practiced as a generalist physician for a few years in his home country strengthening his foundation in general medicine. After that, he moved to the USA and completed his psychiatry residency at Saint Elizabeth’s Hospital, Washington DC.
Conroy is particularly interested in working with individuals with depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, PTSD and ADHD.
Elio Pedroso Conroy, MD, located in Napa Valley, is a board-certified Adult Psychiatrist licensed in California. Dr. Conroy attended medical school in Brazil, where he is originally from. He practiced as a generalist physician for a few years in his home country strengthening his foundation in general medicine. After that, he moved to the USA and completed his psychiatry residency at Saint Elizabeth’s Hospital, Washington DC.
(310) 954-9735 View (310) 954-9735
Photo of Stephen Seager, Psychiatrist, MD
Stephen Seager
Psychiatrist, MD
San Francisco, CA 94104
Together with my team of experienced and compassionate mental health providers, I offer personalized, comprehensive treatment for ADHD, anxiety, trauma, depression, bipolar disorder and other mental health concerns.
As a board-certified psychiatrist for almost 30 years, I have written books on our national mental health system and appeared several times on CNN Live with Don Lemon as an recognized mental health expert. I understand the barriers people face when seeking help, and strive to collaborate with individuals to find solutions that work for their unique needs.
Together with my team of experienced and compassionate mental health providers, I offer personalized, comprehensive treatment for ADHD, anxiety, trauma, depression, bipolar disorder and other mental health concerns.
As a board-certified psychiatrist for almost 30 years, I have written books on our national mental health system and appeared several times on CNN Live with Don Lemon as an recognized mental health expert. I understand the barriers people face when seeking help, and strive to collaborate with individuals to find solutions that work for their unique needs.
(510) 272-7095 View (510) 272-7095
Photo of David Hirchak, Psychiatrist, DO
David Hirchak
Psychiatrist, DO
Online Only
Dr. Hirchak is an experienced, Board Certified Adult Psychiatrist, who emphasizes psychopharmacology and neurobiology in his treatment. Dr. Hirchak specializes in treating Anxiety, OCD, Depression, and Bipolar Disorder. Dr. Hirchak collaborates closely with our therapists so he can provide treatment with both medication management and psychotherapy when indicated.
Dr. Hirchak is an experienced, Board Certified Adult Psychiatrist, who emphasizes psychopharmacology and neurobiology in his treatment. Dr. Hirchak specializes in treating Anxiety, OCD, Depression, and Bipolar Disorder. Dr. Hirchak collaborates closely with our therapists so he can provide treatment with both medication management and psychotherapy when indicated.
(628) 333-3149 View (628) 333-3149
Photo of Shira Crohn, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Shira Crohn
Physician Assistant, PA-C
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94104
With experience across diverse clinical settings, Shira prescribes medication as part of her thoughtful, individualized care for conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, OCD, bipolar disorder, and insomnia.
Shira Crohn is a board-certified Physician Assistant specializing in psychiatric care. She earned her Master’s degree from the New York Institute of Technology after completing rigorous training. Shira takes a holistic approach to treatment, guiding patients to understand how physical health and lifestyle choices impact brain function and mental well-being. She values building relationships with her patients by taking the time to get to know them and understand their unique needs.
With experience across diverse clinical settings, Shira prescribes medication as part of her thoughtful, individualized care for conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, OCD, bipolar disorder, and insomnia.
Shira Crohn is a board-certified Physician Assistant specializing in psychiatric care. She earned her Master’s degree from the New York Institute of Technology after completing rigorous training. Shira takes a holistic approach to treatment, guiding patients to understand how physical health and lifestyle choices impact brain function and mental well-being. She values building relationships with her patients by taking the time to get to know them and understand their unique needs.
(415) 818-0635 View (415) 818-0635
Photo of Peter Forster, Psychiatrist, MD, DFAPA
Peter Forster
Psychiatrist, MD, DFAPA
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94102
I am on the faculty at UCSF, where I teach in the bipolar disorders clinic.
I believe that caring and respectful relationships are the basis for any kind of healing. In my work with patients I view what we do together as a collaboration. You are the expert in yourself and your feelings. I bring to that collaboration the expertise from my academic experience and training as well as from the care of thousands of patients with similar problems. Together we create a treatment plan that will lead to a sustained recovery from a mood or anxiety disorder.
I am on the faculty at UCSF, where I teach in the bipolar disorders clinic.
I believe that caring and respectful relationships are the basis for any kind of healing. In my work with patients I view what we do together as a collaboration. You are the expert in yourself and your feelings. I bring to that collaboration the expertise from my academic experience and training as well as from the care of thousands of patients with similar problems. Together we create a treatment plan that will lead to a sustained recovery from a mood or anxiety disorder.
(415) 419-8201 View (415) 419-8201
Photo of Mimi Winsberg, Psychiatrist, MD
Mimi Winsberg
Psychiatrist, MD
San Francisco, CA 94104
Particular areas of expertise include: Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, Depressio, Relationship Problems, Women's Issues, Disordered Eating and Body Image Issues, Sport Psychology and Performance, Stress and adjustments such as divorce, loss of a loved one, medical problems, career changes.
As a Stanford trained psychiatrist with 25 years of clinical experience, I tailor my therapeutic approach to the individual's particular needs and goals. Psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, and mindfulness based approaches are used, along with medication. I treat mood disorders, anxiety, relationship problems, women's issues, disordered eating, and adjustments such as divorce, loss, medical problems, career changes. Medication is best managed in the context of a therapeutic relationship. I believe in the role lifestyle and physical health can play on emotional health, and I incorporate these principles into my therapy practice.
Particular areas of expertise include: Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, Depressio, Relationship Problems, Women's Issues, Disordered Eating and Body Image Issues, Sport Psychology and Performance, Stress and adjustments such as divorce, loss of a loved one, medical problems, career changes.
As a Stanford trained psychiatrist with 25 years of clinical experience, I tailor my therapeutic approach to the individual's particular needs and goals. Psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, and mindfulness based approaches are used, along with medication. I treat mood disorders, anxiety, relationship problems, women's issues, disordered eating, and adjustments such as divorce, loss, medical problems, career changes. Medication is best managed in the context of a therapeutic relationship. I believe in the role lifestyle and physical health can play on emotional health, and I incorporate these principles into my therapy practice.
(628) 888-1161 View (628) 888-1161
Photo of Tinuke (Tinu) Olalere, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Tinuke (Tinu) Olalere
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
My practice encompasses a wide range of mental health disorders, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia, eating disorder, OCD, and ADHD.
Hi, I am Tinu, dedicated and devoted ANCC board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 18 years working in different areas of healthcare sector. My career is defined by my unwavering commitment to the well-being and personal growth of each client. I don't just see you as a case to be treated, but a unique individual deserving of respect, understanding, and support. My approach is rooted in fostering genuine connections with you and empowering you to take ownership of your mental health journey.
My practice encompasses a wide range of mental health disorders, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia, eating disorder, OCD, and ADHD.
Hi, I am Tinu, dedicated and devoted ANCC board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 18 years working in different areas of healthcare sector. My career is defined by my unwavering commitment to the well-being and personal growth of each client. I don't just see you as a case to be treated, but a unique individual deserving of respect, understanding, and support. My approach is rooted in fostering genuine connections with you and empowering you to take ownership of your mental health journey.
(916) 659-8370 View (916) 659-8370
Photo of Uju Osagie, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP, FNP
Uju Osagie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP, FNP
San Francisco, CA 94112
My ideal client struggles with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, ADHD, and other mental health challenges.
I specialize in psychiatric care, therapy, and medication management. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based therapy, and coaching to help clients manage emotions, build resilience, and achieve lasting mental wellness.
My ideal client struggles with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, ADHD, and other mental health challenges.
I specialize in psychiatric care, therapy, and medication management. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based therapy, and coaching to help clients manage emotions, build resilience, and achieve lasting mental wellness.
(916) 304-0869 View (916) 304-0869
Photo of Bamidele Ojo-Fati, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Bamidele Ojo-Fati
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I provide medication management as part of an integrated approach to addressing complex mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and psychotic disorders.
As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over a decade of diverse nursing experience, I am deeply committed to helping individuals prioritize their mental well-being as a cornerstone of a fulfilling life.
I provide medication management as part of an integrated approach to addressing complex mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and psychotic disorders.
As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over a decade of diverse nursing experience, I am deeply committed to helping individuals prioritize their mental well-being as a cornerstone of a fulfilling life.
(408) 341-6985 View (408) 341-6985
Photo of Peter Forster, Psychiatrist, MD
Peter Forster
Psychiatrist, MD
San Francisco, CA 94102
I am on the faculty at UCSF, where I teach in the bipolar disorders clinic.
I believe that caring and respectful relationships are the basis for any kind of healing. In my work with patients I view what we do together as a collaboration. You are the expert in yourself and your feelings. I bring to that collaboration the expertise from my academic experience and training as well as from the care of thousands of patients with similar problems. Together we create a treatment plan that will lead to a sustained recovery from a mood or anxiety disorder.
I am on the faculty at UCSF, where I teach in the bipolar disorders clinic.
I believe that caring and respectful relationships are the basis for any kind of healing. In my work with patients I view what we do together as a collaboration. You are the expert in yourself and your feelings. I bring to that collaboration the expertise from my academic experience and training as well as from the care of thousands of patients with similar problems. Together we create a treatment plan that will lead to a sustained recovery from a mood or anxiety disorder.
(925) 968-4250 View (925) 968-4250
Photo of Catalina Villa, Psychiatrist, MD
Catalina Villa
Psychiatrist, MD
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) 628-6618 View (650) 628-6618
Photo of Terrance L Jackson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Terrance L Jackson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
17 Endorsed
Online Only
I'm Terrance, a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with extensive experience in mental health care, including emergency crisis and trauma intervention, PTSD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, addiction, and substance use disorders.
As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I am dedicated to helping patients achieve a higher quality of life through compassionate, personalized care. My telehealth platform provides a safe, accessible space for patients to explore their mental health, build resilience, and develop coping skills. I am committed to empowering each person I work with, supporting them in finding balance, purpose, and a renewed sense of well-being.
I'm Terrance, a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with extensive experience in mental health care, including emergency crisis and trauma intervention, PTSD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, addiction, and substance use disorders.
As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I am dedicated to helping patients achieve a higher quality of life through compassionate, personalized care. My telehealth platform provides a safe, accessible space for patients to explore their mental health, build resilience, and develop coping skills. I am committed to empowering each person I work with, supporting them in finding balance, purpose, and a renewed sense of well-being.
(323) 849-2316 View (323) 849-2316
Photo of Nate Miller | Sea To Summit Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Nate Miller | Sea To Summit Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Online Only
I have expertise in trauma, ADHD, and bipolar disorder but treat a wide range of conditions.
Are you ready to revitalize your mental health journey? Imagine exploring deeper healing, unlocking new possibilities, and transforming your life with the help of cutting-edge care. In addition to the usual psychiatry approach, I specialize in ketamine-assisted therapy to elevate your therapeutic work, when it makes sense. I provide a custom-tailored ketamine treatment plan, including safe and effective options for at-home use, empowering you to achieve meaningful progress on your terms.
I have expertise in trauma, ADHD, and bipolar disorder but treat a wide range of conditions.
Are you ready to revitalize your mental health journey? Imagine exploring deeper healing, unlocking new possibilities, and transforming your life with the help of cutting-edge care. In addition to the usual psychiatry approach, I specialize in ketamine-assisted therapy to elevate your therapeutic work, when it makes sense. I provide a custom-tailored ketamine treatment plan, including safe and effective options for at-home use, empowering you to achieve meaningful progress on your terms.
(415) 965-5015 View (415) 965-5015
Photo of Dr. Uchenna Okoye, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Uchenna Okoye
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Exclusively focused on mental health issues, Bonmente treats a myriad of psychiatric conditions, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, sleep disorders, postpartum depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, panic attacks, OCD, and gender dysphoria.
Accepting New Patients - Welcome to Bonmente! We accept all major insurances. We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy immediate comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine insurance-covered appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as possible. We’re here for you every step of the way!
Exclusively focused on mental health issues, Bonmente treats a myriad of psychiatric conditions, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, sleep disorders, postpartum depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, panic attacks, OCD, and gender dysphoria.
Accepting New Patients - Welcome to Bonmente! We accept all major insurances. We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy immediate comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine insurance-covered appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as possible. We’re here for you every step of the way!
(650) 649-6899 View (650) 649-6899
Photo of Abel Tiony, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, MSN
Abel Tiony
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, MSN
Online Only
I help clients manage anxiety, bipolar disorders, PTSD, and more.
Hello! I'm Abel Tiony, a dedicated nurse with over 5 years of experience in healthcare. I'm currently a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who graduated from Charles R. Drew University, with a strong focus on managing mental health disorders. My ideal client faces mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, or ADHD and seeks a compassionate, culturally sensitive approach. They aim to build resilience, achieve emotional balance, and gain the tools to manage their well-being effectively.
I help clients manage anxiety, bipolar disorders, PTSD, and more.
Hello! I'm Abel Tiony, a dedicated nurse with over 5 years of experience in healthcare. I'm currently a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who graduated from Charles R. Drew University, with a strong focus on managing mental health disorders. My ideal client faces mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, or ADHD and seeks a compassionate, culturally sensitive approach. They aim to build resilience, achieve emotional balance, and gain the tools to manage their well-being effectively.
(626) 231-4129 View (626) 231-4129
Photo of Emily Toch, Psychiatrist, MD
Emily Toch
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
She specializes in the treatment of depression, anxiety, panic, bipolar illness, grief and loss, and difficulties with relationships and life transitions.
Anxiety, Depression, Relationship Issues, Life Transitions, Grief and Loss, Mindfulness, PTSD and Post Traumatic Growth Bipolar Disorder
She specializes in the treatment of depression, anxiety, panic, bipolar illness, grief and loss, and difficulties with relationships and life transitions.
Anxiety, Depression, Relationship Issues, Life Transitions, Grief and Loss, Mindfulness, PTSD and Post Traumatic Growth Bipolar Disorder
(628) 212-6828 View (628) 212-6828
Photo of Chika Agulanna - Light Care Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Light Care Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
9 Endorsed
Serves Area
Chika is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner from Fresno Ca, who works with children and adults and provides care for patients who struggle with anxiety, depression, bipolar, sleep difficulties etc.
Chika’s main goals for her patients include reducing symptoms of mental health disorder, improving overall well-being, and promoting personal growth and resilience. They believe that in their practice, their patients can discover that their progress and goals are achievable by applying the methods and techniques that Chika uses in session.
Chika is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner from Fresno Ca, who works with children and adults and provides care for patients who struggle with anxiety, depression, bipolar, sleep difficulties etc.
Chika’s main goals for her patients include reducing symptoms of mental health disorder, improving overall well-being, and promoting personal growth and resilience. They believe that in their practice, their patients can discover that their progress and goals are achievable by applying the methods and techniques that Chika uses in session.
(559) 423-7076 View (559) 423-7076
Photo of Inna Zelikman - Inna Zelikman PMH-NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMH-NP
Inna Zelikman PMH-NP
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMH-NP
Online Only
Are you someone who has been struggling with treatment resistant depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, Sleep Disorder, unresolved trauma or unprocessed grief?
Inna Zelikman, PMH-NP, Integrative Psychiatry and psychedelic integration therapist. I offer psychiatric medication optimization by utilizing innovative pharmacology and SSRI de-prescribing, ADHD alternative solutions, Mild/moderate cannabis and alcohol addiction, comprehensive psychiatric assessment, bio-identical hormone replacement, nutritional support
Are you someone who has been struggling with treatment resistant depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, Sleep Disorder, unresolved trauma or unprocessed grief?
Inna Zelikman, PMH-NP, Integrative Psychiatry and psychedelic integration therapist. I offer psychiatric medication optimization by utilizing innovative pharmacology and SSRI de-prescribing, ADHD alternative solutions, Mild/moderate cannabis and alcohol addiction, comprehensive psychiatric assessment, bio-identical hormone replacement, nutritional support
(628) 214-2296 View (628) 214-2296
Photo of Dr. Luis Vallejo, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Luis Vallejo
Psychiatrist, MD
6 Endorsed
Serves Area
I also have a strong suit in treating Bipolar, Depression, ADHD, and OCD.
Attended Vanderbilt University on a full tuition Chancellor's scholarship and completed my M.D. at Baylor in the Houston Medical Center. Beyond Psychiatry board certification, I pursued extensive psychodynamic/analytic training via the Cincinnati Institute, and New Center for Psychoanalysis. In addition to my private practice I'm also a consult-liaison Psychiatrist at Cedars Sinai Beverly Hills Medical Center, Baptist Health Medical Center, and Orbit Telehealth. Feel free to email me here via PsychologyToday (preferred) or my use SimplePractice website to the right to request a session. I sincerely look forward to meeting you!
I also have a strong suit in treating Bipolar, Depression, ADHD, and OCD.
Attended Vanderbilt University on a full tuition Chancellor's scholarship and completed my M.D. at Baylor in the Houston Medical Center. Beyond Psychiatry board certification, I pursued extensive psychodynamic/analytic training via the Cincinnati Institute, and New Center for Psychoanalysis. In addition to my private practice I'm also a consult-liaison Psychiatrist at Cedars Sinai Beverly Hills Medical Center, Baptist Health Medical Center, and Orbit Telehealth. Feel free to email me here via PsychologyToday (preferred) or my use SimplePractice website to the right to request a session. I sincerely look forward to meeting you!
(424) 484-0382 View (424) 484-0382

See more therapy options for San Francisco

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.