Bipolar Disorder Psychiatrists in Jacksonville, FL

Photo of Dr. Ezechiel Madestin, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Dr. Ezechiel Madestin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My passion is to help people with mental illnesses such as major depressive disorder, anxiety disorder, bipolar disorder, ADD, ADHD, Schizophrenia
My name is Dr. Ezechiel Madestin. I am an experienced board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a doctorate degree in nursing practice (DNP). My passion is to help people with mental illnesses such as major depressive disorder, anxiety disorder, bipolar disorder, ADD, ADHD, Schizophrenia...etc.
My passion is to help people with mental illnesses such as major depressive disorder, anxiety disorder, bipolar disorder, ADD, ADHD, Schizophrenia
My name is Dr. Ezechiel Madestin. I am an experienced board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a doctorate degree in nursing practice (DNP). My passion is to help people with mental illnesses such as major depressive disorder, anxiety disorder, bipolar disorder, ADD, ADHD, Schizophrenia...etc.
(561) 797-0724 View (561) 797-0724
Photo of Brence Brooks, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Brence Brooks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Specialty areas include medication management for major depressive disorder, bipolar I and II disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, childhood behavioral disorders, psychotic disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
I focus on quality over quantity of care and allot appropriate timeframes to ensure patients have their needs met during each session. During our interactions, I may offer suggestions or even recommendations associated with your care. However, I want patients to feel confident that we will always work as a team in developing an ultimate plan for you.
Specialty areas include medication management for major depressive disorder, bipolar I and II disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, childhood behavioral disorders, psychotic disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
I focus on quality over quantity of care and allot appropriate timeframes to ensure patients have their needs met during each session. During our interactions, I may offer suggestions or even recommendations associated with your care. However, I want patients to feel confident that we will always work as a team in developing an ultimate plan for you.
(561) 269-0783 View (561) 269-0783
Photo of Chloe Griffith, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Chloe Griffith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Chloe’s background is in Community Mental Health and she's specialized in a variety of psychiatric disorders including but not limited to anxiety, OCD, depression, panic, and bipolar disorder.
Chloe Griffith is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She received her undergraduate degree from Birmingham Southern College and later completed her Master's program at Vanderbilt University in 2017. Chloe aims to support her patients using personalized goals and education, brief cognitive behavioral techniques, and medications. She hopes to create an environment where clients feel empowered, connected, and valued.
Chloe’s background is in Community Mental Health and she's specialized in a variety of psychiatric disorders including but not limited to anxiety, OCD, depression, panic, and bipolar disorder.
Chloe Griffith is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She received her undergraduate degree from Birmingham Southern College and later completed her Master's program at Vanderbilt University in 2017. Chloe aims to support her patients using personalized goals and education, brief cognitive behavioral techniques, and medications. She hopes to create an environment where clients feel empowered, connected, and valued.
(561) 823-6473 View (561) 823-6473
Photo of Dr. Maryam Davari, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Maryam Davari
Psychiatrist, MD
Jacksonville, FL 32246
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.
My ideal client would be one who is open to learning ways to be the best version of themselves and willing to work on making those changes with the help of their healthcare team.
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.
My ideal client would be one who is open to learning ways to be the best version of themselves and willing to work on making those changes with the help of their healthcare team.
(561) 349-6236 View (561) 349-6236
Photo of Dr. Philip Sullivan, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Philip Sullivan
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
He combines these perspectives in diagnosing and treating psychiatric conditions including depression, bipolar spectrum disorders, anxiety, stress and trauma related disorders, adjustment problems, maternal mental health, OCD, ADHD and other disorders.
Doctor Phillip Sullivan is a staff psychiatrist at Talkiatry. He is board certified in both adult psychiatry and child and adolescent psychiatry. His interest in psychiatric treatment was originally triggered by the humanistic writings of Abraham Maslow, Carl Rogers, and Rollo May. As he earned his medical degree and started post-graduate psychiatric training, he went on to learn psycho-pharmacological, cognitive-behavioral, and psychodynamic treatment approaches.
He combines these perspectives in diagnosing and treating psychiatric conditions including depression, bipolar spectrum disorders, anxiety, stress and trauma related disorders, adjustment problems, maternal mental health, OCD, ADHD and other disorders.
Doctor Phillip Sullivan is a staff psychiatrist at Talkiatry. He is board certified in both adult psychiatry and child and adolescent psychiatry. His interest in psychiatric treatment was originally triggered by the humanistic writings of Abraham Maslow, Carl Rogers, and Rollo May. As he earned his medical degree and started post-graduate psychiatric training, he went on to learn psycho-pharmacological, cognitive-behavioral, and psychodynamic treatment approaches.
(904) 785-8919 View (904) 785-8919
Photo of Chloe Griffith, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Chloe Griffith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Chloe’s background is in Community Mental Health and she's specialized in a variety of psychiatric disorders including but not limited to anxiety, OCD, depression, panic, and bipolar disorder.
Chloe Griffith is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She received her undergraduate degree from Birmingham Southern College and later completed her Master's program at Vanderbilt University in 2017. Chloe aims to support her patients using personalized goals and education, brief cognitive behavioral techniques, and medications. She hopes to create an environment where clients feel empowered, connected, and valued.
Chloe’s background is in Community Mental Health and she's specialized in a variety of psychiatric disorders including but not limited to anxiety, OCD, depression, panic, and bipolar disorder.
Chloe Griffith is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She received her undergraduate degree from Birmingham Southern College and later completed her Master's program at Vanderbilt University in 2017. Chloe aims to support her patients using personalized goals and education, brief cognitive behavioral techniques, and medications. She hopes to create an environment where clients feel empowered, connected, and valued.
(786) 692-8041 View (786) 692-8041
Photo of Jennifer Richie, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Jennifer Richie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Online Only
My specialties encompass schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, and addiction.
I'm Dr. Jennifer Richie, DNP, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-C). My journey includes earning a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP) from Chamberlain University, a graduate degree from Georgetown University, and an undergraduate degree from Drexel University. With a background in child and adolescent psychiatry, adult psychiatry, and addiction medicine, I'm committed to delivering high-quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to both adolescents and adults.
My specialties encompass schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, and addiction.
I'm Dr. Jennifer Richie, DNP, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-C). My journey includes earning a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP) from Chamberlain University, a graduate degree from Georgetown University, and an undergraduate degree from Drexel University. With a background in child and adolescent psychiatry, adult psychiatry, and addiction medicine, I'm committed to delivering high-quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to both adolescents and adults.
(904) 552-9064 x9835 View (904) 552-9064 x9835
Photo of Colleen Conrad, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP
Colleen Conrad
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP
Jacksonville, FL 32258
Whether you're experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, or any other mental health condition, seeking a definitive diagnosis is an important step toward finding the right path to recovery.
Are you struggling with your mental well-being? Do you feel like something isn't quite right and you're unsure where to turn? Are you finding it difficult to manage your emotions, thoughts, or behaviors?​ I specialize in providing comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and diagnoses, along with medication management if necessary. Together, we can uncover the root causes of your challenges and develop a personalized treatment plan to help you regain control of your mental health.​
Whether you're experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, or any other mental health condition, seeking a definitive diagnosis is an important step toward finding the right path to recovery.
Are you struggling with your mental well-being? Do you feel like something isn't quite right and you're unsure where to turn? Are you finding it difficult to manage your emotions, thoughts, or behaviors?​ I specialize in providing comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and diagnoses, along with medication management if necessary. Together, we can uncover the root causes of your challenges and develop a personalized treatment plan to help you regain control of your mental health.​
(904) 977-2724 View (904) 977-2724
Photo of Carolyn McClinton - Embracing Behavioral Health, Psychiatrist, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Embracing Behavioral Health
Psychiatrist, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
2 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32258
A Healthy Life Begins With Mental Health; We specialize in Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, and Depression.
We Individualized care that is based on patients needs, most importantly we keep in mind that mental health and your well-being are just as important as physical health in order for patients to reach their full potential in life. We works with families and Individuals across the lifespan by helping them to achieve their behavior and mental health goals.
A Healthy Life Begins With Mental Health; We specialize in Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, and Depression.
We Individualized care that is based on patients needs, most importantly we keep in mind that mental health and your well-being are just as important as physical health in order for patients to reach their full potential in life. We works with families and Individuals across the lifespan by helping them to achieve their behavior and mental health goals.
(904) 439-7830 View (904) 439-7830
Photo of Adil Mohammad - Harmony United Psychiatric Care, Psychiatrist
Harmony United Psychiatric Care
Psychiatrist
Online Only
We treat ADHD, anxiety, bipolar, depressive, disruptive impulse control, dissociative, eating and gender identity disorders.
We provide in-person and telepsychiatry services with 25% off for new clients! Access care from our offices or securely online with same-day or next-day appointments available across Florida. Our 24/7 on-call providers are ready to address urgent needs. We specialize in Medication Management, Counseling, and Neuropsychological Testing for adults, adolescents, and children aged 5 and up. Our dedicated team includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Nurse Practitioners, Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. Most insurance plans, including Medicare, are accepted. Take the first step toward better mental health today!
We treat ADHD, anxiety, bipolar, depressive, disruptive impulse control, dissociative, eating and gender identity disorders.
We provide in-person and telepsychiatry services with 25% off for new clients! Access care from our offices or securely online with same-day or next-day appointments available across Florida. Our 24/7 on-call providers are ready to address urgent needs. We specialize in Medication Management, Counseling, and Neuropsychological Testing for adults, adolescents, and children aged 5 and up. Our dedicated team includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Nurse Practitioners, Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. Most insurance plans, including Medicare, are accepted. Take the first step toward better mental health today!
(239) 268-9113 View (239) 268-9113
Photo of Adil Mohammed - Harmony United Psychiatric Care, Psychiatrist
We treat ADHD, anxiety, bipolar, depressive, disruptive impulse control, dissociative, eating and gender identity disorders.
We provide in-person and telepsychiatry services with 25% off for new clients! Access care from our offices or securely online with same-day or next-day appointments available across Florida. Our 24/7 on-call providers are ready to address urgent needs. We specialize in Medication Management, Counseling, and Neuropsychological Testing for adults, adolescents, and children aged 5 and up. Our dedicated team includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Nurse Practitioners, Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. Most insurance plans, including Medicare, are accepted. Take the first step toward better mental health today!
We treat ADHD, anxiety, bipolar, depressive, disruptive impulse control, dissociative, eating and gender identity disorders.
We provide in-person and telepsychiatry services with 25% off for new clients! Access care from our offices or securely online with same-day or next-day appointments available across Florida. Our 24/7 on-call providers are ready to address urgent needs. We specialize in Medication Management, Counseling, and Neuropsychological Testing for adults, adolescents, and children aged 5 and up. Our dedicated team includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Nurse Practitioners, Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. Most insurance plans, including Medicare, are accepted. Take the first step toward better mental health today!
(321) 218-5892 View (321) 218-5892
Photo of Aimee Roberts-Serrato, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Aimee Roberts-Serrato
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32223
People struggle with anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and others.
I provide psychiatric evaluations, medication management plans tailored to you, and brief supportive therapy. I work with you as a team to develop a treatment plan specifically for you. This can also include nutritional psychiatry, exercise, and sleep hygiene. I also encourage complementary medicine like Acupuncture, Hypnosis, Meditation, and Yoga.
People struggle with anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and others.
I provide psychiatric evaluations, medication management plans tailored to you, and brief supportive therapy. I work with you as a team to develop a treatment plan specifically for you. This can also include nutritional psychiatry, exercise, and sleep hygiene. I also encourage complementary medicine like Acupuncture, Hypnosis, Meditation, and Yoga.
(904) 299-1607 View (904) 299-1607
Photo of Adil Mohammed - Harmony United Psychiatric Care, Psychiatrist
We treat ADHD, anxiety, bipolar, depressive, disruptive impulse control, dissociative, eating and gender identity disorders.
We provide in-person and telepsychiatry services with 25% off for new clients! Access care from our offices or securely online with same-day or next-day appointments available across Florida. Our 24/7 on-call providers are ready to address urgent needs. We specialize in Medication Management, Counseling, and Neuropsychological Testing for adults, adolescents, and children aged 5 and up. Our dedicated team includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Nurse Practitioners, Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. Most insurance plans, including Medicare, are accepted. Take the first step toward better mental health today!
We treat ADHD, anxiety, bipolar, depressive, disruptive impulse control, dissociative, eating and gender identity disorders.
We provide in-person and telepsychiatry services with 25% off for new clients! Access care from our offices or securely online with same-day or next-day appointments available across Florida. Our 24/7 on-call providers are ready to address urgent needs. We specialize in Medication Management, Counseling, and Neuropsychological Testing for adults, adolescents, and children aged 5 and up. Our dedicated team includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Nurse Practitioners, Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. Most insurance plans, including Medicare, are accepted. Take the first step toward better mental health today!
(321) 257-2614 View (321) 257-2614
Photo of Adil Mohammed - Harmony United Psychiatric Care, Psychiatrist
We treat ADHD, anxiety, bipolar, depressive, disruptive impulse control, dissociative, eating and gender identity disorders.
We provide in-person and telepsychiatry services with 25% off for new clients! Access care from our offices or securely online with same-day or next-day appointments available across Florida. Our 24/7 on-call providers are ready to address urgent needs. We specialize in Medication Management, Counseling, and Neuropsychological Testing for adults, adolescents, and children aged 5 and up. Our dedicated team includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Nurse Practitioners, Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. Most insurance plans, including Medicare, are accepted. Take the first step toward better mental health today!
We treat ADHD, anxiety, bipolar, depressive, disruptive impulse control, dissociative, eating and gender identity disorders.
We provide in-person and telepsychiatry services with 25% off for new clients! Access care from our offices or securely online with same-day or next-day appointments available across Florida. Our 24/7 on-call providers are ready to address urgent needs. We specialize in Medication Management, Counseling, and Neuropsychological Testing for adults, adolescents, and children aged 5 and up. Our dedicated team includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Nurse Practitioners, Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. Most insurance plans, including Medicare, are accepted. Take the first step toward better mental health today!
(754) 203-5529 View (754) 203-5529
Alvaro Lacayo
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32216
I've worked with clients who were diagnosed with: Major Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar I and II, Schizoaffective, Schizophrenia, ADHD, Oppositional Defiant, Conduct Disorder, and Adjustment Disorders.
I specialize in ADHD in children. I specialize in Major Depression from children to adults.
I've worked with clients who were diagnosed with: Major Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar I and II, Schizoaffective, Schizophrenia, ADHD, Oppositional Defiant, Conduct Disorder, and Adjustment Disorders.
I specialize in ADHD in children. I specialize in Major Depression from children to adults.
(904) 497-4671 View (904) 497-4671
Photo of Shire Padao, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Shire Padao
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I treat an array of conditions, however, my specializations include anxiety, depression, bipolar, child and adolescent psychiatry, geriatrics, LGBTQ+ issues, and obsessive compulsive disorder.
My name is Shire Padao, PMHNP, and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner offering medication management to teens and adults.
I treat an array of conditions, however, my specializations include anxiety, depression, bipolar, child and adolescent psychiatry, geriatrics, LGBTQ+ issues, and obsessive compulsive disorder.
My name is Shire Padao, PMHNP, and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner offering medication management to teens and adults.
(904) 944-7404 View (904) 944-7404
Photo of Adil Mohammed - Harmony United Psychiatric Care , Psychiatrist
Harmony United Psychiatric Care
Psychiatrist
Online Only
We treat ADHD, anxiety, bipolar, depressive, disruptive impulse control, dissociative, eating and gender identity disorders.
We provide in-person and telepsychiatry services with 25% off for new clients! Access care from our offices or securely online with same-day or next-day appointments available across Florida. Our 24/7 on-call providers are ready to address urgent needs. We specialize in Medication Management, Counseling, and Neuropsychological Testing for adults, adolescents, and children aged 5 and up. Our dedicated team includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Nurse Practitioners, Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. Most insurance plans, including Medicare, are accepted. Take the first step toward better mental health today!
We treat ADHD, anxiety, bipolar, depressive, disruptive impulse control, dissociative, eating and gender identity disorders.
We provide in-person and telepsychiatry services with 25% off for new clients! Access care from our offices or securely online with same-day or next-day appointments available across Florida. Our 24/7 on-call providers are ready to address urgent needs. We specialize in Medication Management, Counseling, and Neuropsychological Testing for adults, adolescents, and children aged 5 and up. Our dedicated team includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Nurse Practitioners, Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. Most insurance plans, including Medicare, are accepted. Take the first step toward better mental health today!
(321) 290-9335 View (321) 290-9335
Photo of Dr. Gaurav Agarwal, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Gaurav Agarwal
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
His primary focus has been in treating adults with bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, and insomnia.
Dr. Agarwal is a board-eligible adult psychiatrist. He was elected chief resident from his residency program at the University of Central Florida. He graduated cum laude from the American University of Antigua where he obtained his medical degree, and received a bachelor's degree in Biological Sciences from the University of California at Irvine.
His primary focus has been in treating adults with bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, and insomnia.
Dr. Agarwal is a board-eligible adult psychiatrist. He was elected chief resident from his residency program at the University of Central Florida. He graduated cum laude from the American University of Antigua where he obtained his medical degree, and received a bachelor's degree in Biological Sciences from the University of California at Irvine.
(904) 977-5607 View (904) 977-5607
Photo of Margaret Olivero Pachiano, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Margaret Olivero Pachiano
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I specialize in anxiety, bipolar disorder, and medication management.
I am a Florida Licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and a Certified Dementia Provider. I hold a Master's Degree in Nursing from St. Thomas University Miami Gardens Florida, and a Bachelor of Science from Pasco Hernando State College. In my nursing career, I have seen firsthand the harmful impact of social stigma associated with mental illness. This is one of the reasons, I have pursued this journey in hopes that I can be a part of reducing the social stigma that is all too often associated with mental health.
I specialize in anxiety, bipolar disorder, and medication management.
I am a Florida Licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and a Certified Dementia Provider. I hold a Master's Degree in Nursing from St. Thomas University Miami Gardens Florida, and a Bachelor of Science from Pasco Hernando State College. In my nursing career, I have seen firsthand the harmful impact of social stigma associated with mental illness. This is one of the reasons, I have pursued this journey in hopes that I can be a part of reducing the social stigma that is all too often associated with mental health.
(844) 569-9956 View (844) 569-9956
Photo of Rachel Bardos, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Rachel Bardos
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I specialize in treating a wide range of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, autism spectrum disorder, postpartum depression, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, insomnia, schizophrenia-spectrum disorders, and behavioral disorders.
Hello! I'm Rachel, a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner passionate about mental health care. My journey began with personal experiences that shaped my empathy for those facing mental health challenges. I provide compassionate care specializing in kids, adolescents, adults, BIPOC, and LGBTQ+ individuals, fostering an inclusive environment. My practice emphasizes patient-centered care, evidence-based treatments, and trauma-informed approaches. I believe in the significance of mental health and aim to break stigmas. Educating my patients and providing medication management are key aspects of my work.
I specialize in treating a wide range of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, autism spectrum disorder, postpartum depression, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, insomnia, schizophrenia-spectrum disorders, and behavioral disorders.
Hello! I'm Rachel, a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner passionate about mental health care. My journey began with personal experiences that shaped my empathy for those facing mental health challenges. I provide compassionate care specializing in kids, adolescents, adults, BIPOC, and LGBTQ+ individuals, fostering an inclusive environment. My practice emphasizes patient-centered care, evidence-based treatments, and trauma-informed approaches. I believe in the significance of mental health and aim to break stigmas. Educating my patients and providing medication management are key aspects of my work.
(443) 706-8578 View (443) 706-8578

See more therapy options for Jacksonville

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.