Bipolar Disorder Psychiatrists in Barre, MA

Photo of Antoinette Mailloux, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Antoinette Mailloux
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Barre, MA 01005
My ideal client is someone who feels overwhelmed by anxiety, ADHD, mood changes, or past trauma and is ready to explore support. They may be navigating school, work, parenting, or relationships and want to feel more in control, focused, and emotionally balanced. They’re looking for a provider who listens, offers clear guidance, and works collaboratively to develop a plan that fits their life. They value both medication and therapy as tools to help them reach their goals and improve their quality of life.
My ideal client is someone who feels overwhelmed by anxiety, ADHD, mood changes, or past trauma and is ready to explore support. They may be navigating school, work, parenting, or relationships and want to feel more in control, focused, and emotionally balanced. They’re looking for a provider who listens, offers clear guidance, and works collaboratively to develop a plan that fits their life. They value both medication and therapy as tools to help them reach their goals and improve their quality of life.
(978) 285-9187 View (978) 285-9187
Photo of Lexi Regan - Holistic Well , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Holistic Well
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hello and welcome! We are Lexi Regan and Lily Allen and we are psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners who provide medication management, therapy and holistic solutions for mental health. Through evidence-based practices and a collaborative approach, we can work together with you to enhance your mental well-being. Take the first step by scheduling an exploratory intake appointment, and let’s embark on your journey towards lasting wellness.
Hello and welcome! We are Lexi Regan and Lily Allen and we are psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners who provide medication management, therapy and holistic solutions for mental health. Through evidence-based practices and a collaborative approach, we can work together with you to enhance your mental well-being. Take the first step by scheduling an exploratory intake appointment, and let’s embark on your journey towards lasting wellness.
(508) 690-8110 View (508) 690-8110

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Chidinma Onyegwu - Equilibrium Health , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, , PMHNP-C
Equilibrium Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, , PMHNP-C
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Our licensed and board certified psychiatric mental health providers are experienced in providing diagnostic evaluation and treatment including medication management for client ages 10 and up with Depression, Bipolar disorder, Anxiety Disorders, ADHD, Adjustment disorders, OCD, PTSD, schizophrenia/schizoaffective disorder, and Alcohol use disorders
Accepting NEW patients for same day virtual appointments. Have you been experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, mood swings, ADHD, and insomnia? Are these symptoms interfering with your thinking, and making it difficult for you to manage work, relationships, and other responsibilities? Are you looking for a provider that will listen to you and develop a complete plan to assist you in returning to a normal life? If you responded "yes" to any of these questions, you are a candidate for the treatment we offer. Here at Equilibrium Health, we provide supportive, personalize treatment tailored to your to your individual needs.
Our licensed and board certified psychiatric mental health providers are experienced in providing diagnostic evaluation and treatment including medication management for client ages 10 and up with Depression, Bipolar disorder, Anxiety Disorders, ADHD, Adjustment disorders, OCD, PTSD, schizophrenia/schizoaffective disorder, and Alcohol use disorders
Accepting NEW patients for same day virtual appointments. Have you been experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, mood swings, ADHD, and insomnia? Are these symptoms interfering with your thinking, and making it difficult for you to manage work, relationships, and other responsibilities? Are you looking for a provider that will listen to you and develop a complete plan to assist you in returning to a normal life? If you responded "yes" to any of these questions, you are a candidate for the treatment we offer. Here at Equilibrium Health, we provide supportive, personalize treatment tailored to your to your individual needs.
(617) 936-0112 View (617) 936-0112
Photo of Rosemarie Zorola - New England Behavioral Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC, PMHNP-B
New England Behavioral Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC, PMHNP-B
1 Endorsed
Dudley, MA 01571
We incorporate several treatment modalities that are geared towards holistic care for clients with Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Bipolar Disorders, Schizophrenia, Depressive Disorders, PTSD, and ADHD, incorporating CBT and motivational interviewing.
Our provider is a double board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner, specializing in pain and inpatient care, and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (FNP-BC, PMHNP-BC). She has over 5 years of experience working with clients who are experiencing a wide variety of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, adjustment disorder, and more. Our provider earned her Master's degree in Nursing (FNP) from Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences and a Post-Master's Certificate in PMHNP (Across the Lifespan) from UMASS. She strives to provide quality care and is focused on patient-centered treatment.
We incorporate several treatment modalities that are geared towards holistic care for clients with Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Bipolar Disorders, Schizophrenia, Depressive Disorders, PTSD, and ADHD, incorporating CBT and motivational interviewing.
Our provider is a double board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner, specializing in pain and inpatient care, and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (FNP-BC, PMHNP-BC). She has over 5 years of experience working with clients who are experiencing a wide variety of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, adjustment disorder, and more. Our provider earned her Master's degree in Nursing (FNP) from Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences and a Post-Master's Certificate in PMHNP (Across the Lifespan) from UMASS. She strives to provide quality care and is focused on patient-centered treatment.
(774) 541-1288 x101 View (774) 541-1288 x101
Photo of Ryan Perry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Ryan Perry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
His areas of expertise include but are not limited to ADHD, substance abuse, eating disorders, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.
Ryan Perry, PMHNP-BC is a compassionate and dedicated psychiatric mental health NP with a rich background in emergency medicine. With over two decades of experience as an Emergency Department RN, Ryan has honed his skills in caring for diverse patient populations, particularly those facing health disparities. Ryan's journey in healthcare began in 1999, serving at prestigious institutions such as Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and St. Luke’s Hospital. Throughout his extensive career in emergency medicine, he has worked closely with vulnerable communities, fostering a deep understanding of their unique needs and challenges.
His areas of expertise include but are not limited to ADHD, substance abuse, eating disorders, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.
Ryan Perry, PMHNP-BC is a compassionate and dedicated psychiatric mental health NP with a rich background in emergency medicine. With over two decades of experience as an Emergency Department RN, Ryan has honed his skills in caring for diverse patient populations, particularly those facing health disparities. Ryan's journey in healthcare began in 1999, serving at prestigious institutions such as Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and St. Luke’s Hospital. Throughout his extensive career in emergency medicine, he has worked closely with vulnerable communities, fostering a deep understanding of their unique needs and challenges.
(774) 992-8773 View (774) 992-8773
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.
(617) 397-7728 View (617) 397-7728
Copley Healthcare
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Serves Area
At Copley Healthcare, a team of dedicated professionals with multiple years of experience in behavioral health, addiction and internal medicine, provide comprehensive psychiatric services to patients with varied diagnosis, including, but not limited to depression, ADD, ADHD, OCD, anxiety, mood disorders, bipolar disorders, as well as substance use disorder.
We provide high quality psychiatric care with individualized treatment plans.
At Copley Healthcare, a team of dedicated professionals with multiple years of experience in behavioral health, addiction and internal medicine, provide comprehensive psychiatric services to patients with varied diagnosis, including, but not limited to depression, ADD, ADHD, OCD, anxiety, mood disorders, bipolar disorders, as well as substance use disorder.
We provide high quality psychiatric care with individualized treatment plans.
(508) 466-5717 View (508) 466-5717
Photo of Chuck Ogbodo - RNL Behavioral Health Services INC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-, BC
RNL Behavioral Health Services INC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-, BC
Northborough, MA 01532
Services includes medication management • Bipolar Disorder • Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) • Autism • Depression • Substance Use Disorder • ADHD • Anxiety • Insomnia • PTSD • Psychotherapy • Diagnostic Clarification • Second Opinion Evaluations • Reduction of Poly-pharmacy.
Chuck Ogbodo is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner driven by the vision to craft a world liberated from the stigma encircling mental health, where understanding, support, and empathy take their place. My dedication to this vision is realized through the provision of easily accessible mental health services.
Services includes medication management • Bipolar Disorder • Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) • Autism • Depression • Substance Use Disorder • ADHD • Anxiety • Insomnia • PTSD • Psychotherapy • Diagnostic Clarification • Second Opinion Evaluations • Reduction of Poly-pharmacy.
Chuck Ogbodo is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner driven by the vision to craft a world liberated from the stigma encircling mental health, where understanding, support, and empathy take their place. My dedication to this vision is realized through the provision of easily accessible mental health services.
(508) 501-1107 View (508) 501-1107
Photo of Adair Lynne Deicke, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, APRN, PMHNP
Adair Lynne Deicke
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in treating Depressions; both unipolar and Bipolar, PTSD and ADHD.
Adair is accepting new patients she accepts commercial insurance Aetna, BCBS, Cigna, United and Medicare. She is providing Video Conferencing appointments only. in both MA & FL.. She specializes in medication management and provides brief psychotherapy. Adair is Board certified by the ANCC :as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. Her goal is providing quality care for you. A highly proficient and dedicated professional with over 20-years of practice in the field of psychiatry and mental health.. Her practice incorporates holistic and complimentary therapies. See m y 5 star reviews: Google: Adair Deicke APRN Healthgrades
I specialize in treating Depressions; both unipolar and Bipolar, PTSD and ADHD.
Adair is accepting new patients she accepts commercial insurance Aetna, BCBS, Cigna, United and Medicare. She is providing Video Conferencing appointments only. in both MA & FL.. She specializes in medication management and provides brief psychotherapy. Adair is Board certified by the ANCC :as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. Her goal is providing quality care for you. A highly proficient and dedicated professional with over 20-years of practice in the field of psychiatry and mental health.. Her practice incorporates holistic and complimentary therapies. See m y 5 star reviews: Google: Adair Deicke APRN Healthgrades
(413) 966-1120 View (413) 966-1120
Photo of Liudmila F Cardoso, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, CNP
Liudmila F Cardoso
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, CNP
Online Only
I specialize in working with individuals facing complex mental health challenges, including schizophrenia, anxiety, depression, PTSD, and bipolar disorder.
I help individuals facing mental health challenges by providing specialized care tailored to their unique needs. My expertise includes treating conditions such as schizophrenia, anxiety, depression, PTSD, and bipolar disorder. I create a warm, supportive environment where clients feel comfortable opening up and working toward their goals.
I specialize in working with individuals facing complex mental health challenges, including schizophrenia, anxiety, depression, PTSD, and bipolar disorder.
I help individuals facing mental health challenges by providing specialized care tailored to their unique needs. My expertise includes treating conditions such as schizophrenia, anxiety, depression, PTSD, and bipolar disorder. I create a warm, supportive environment where clients feel comfortable opening up and working toward their goals.
(774) 344-5914 View (774) 344-5914
Photo of Dr. Marco Belluardo-Crosby, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Dr. Marco Belluardo-Crosby
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in treatment of mood disorders, including Major Depressive Disorder and Bipolar Disorder.
Throughout my career I have successfully treated people with symptoms of depression, anxiety, PTSD and mood disorders. I collaborate with other providers such as psychotherapists and primary care providers in maximizing the benefits of psychopharmacological treatment. I am committed to high standards of care following the latest clinical research.
I specialize in treatment of mood disorders, including Major Depressive Disorder and Bipolar Disorder.
Throughout my career I have successfully treated people with symptoms of depression, anxiety, PTSD and mood disorders. I collaborate with other providers such as psychotherapists and primary care providers in maximizing the benefits of psychopharmacological treatment. I am committed to high standards of care following the latest clinical research.
(978) 306-2915 View (978) 306-2915
Photo of Fatou Cisset, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Fatou Cisset
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I specialize in diagnosing and treating mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, sleep disorders and more.
I am a passionate and dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 12 years of experience working in the mental health field. I offer psychiatric services to patients 18 years and older.
I specialize in diagnosing and treating mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, sleep disorders and more.
I am a passionate and dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 12 years of experience working in the mental health field. I offer psychiatric services to patients 18 years and older.
(617) 917-3896 View (617) 917-3896
Photo of Josephine Banigo - Victoria Counseling Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMNP-BC, ACNP-BC
Victoria Counseling Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMNP-BC, ACNP-BC
Marlborough, MA 01752
Victoria Counseling Services provides collaborative care in disorders such as depression (unipolar, bipolar, peripartum), anxiety, trauma, ADHD, marriage counseling, sleep, psychosis, work and relationship stress, and grief
Victoria Counseling Services is an outpatient Adult Psychiatry, established in 2015 following the sudden death of a beloved younger sister, Victoria, who suffered from severe depression and PTSD for most of her adult years. As a patient, expect to be an active participant in your treatment plan.
Victoria Counseling Services provides collaborative care in disorders such as depression (unipolar, bipolar, peripartum), anxiety, trauma, ADHD, marriage counseling, sleep, psychosis, work and relationship stress, and grief
Victoria Counseling Services is an outpatient Adult Psychiatry, established in 2015 following the sudden death of a beloved younger sister, Victoria, who suffered from severe depression and PTSD for most of her adult years. As a patient, expect to be an active participant in your treatment plan.
(508) 252-0916 View (508) 252-0916
Photo of Falashade Felicia Adewuyi - New Leaf Psychiatry, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
New Leaf Psychiatry, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
She specialize in the treatment of adults and adolescents with depression, anxiety, bipolar spectrum disorders, ADHD, PTSD, and other psychiatric disorders.
She tailors treatment plans to the specific needs of her patients. In addition to providing medication management, she helps her patients develop healthy coping mechanisms to maximize their outcomes.
She specialize in the treatment of adults and adolescents with depression, anxiety, bipolar spectrum disorders, ADHD, PTSD, and other psychiatric disorders.
She tailors treatment plans to the specific needs of her patients. In addition to providing medication management, she helps her patients develop healthy coping mechanisms to maximize their outcomes.
(401) 405-1300 View (401) 405-1300
Photo of Jean-Merimee N Kouagheu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Jean-Merimee N Kouagheu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Online Only
My clinical expertise is in managing conditions like Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, addiction, mood Disorders and psychotic disorders
Hey there! My name is Jean-Merimee, a retired U.S. army officer with over 23 years of experience in healthcare, brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the field of mental health. With more than 14 years of focused work in mental health, I have developed a deep understanding of the complexities of psychological well-being, particularly in high-stress environments such as military service. I, as a psychiatric nurse practitioner, emphasizes a holistic approach to care that prioritizes the client's overall well-being, taking into consideration not only their mental health but also their physical, emotional, and social needs.
My clinical expertise is in managing conditions like Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, addiction, mood Disorders and psychotic disorders
Hey there! My name is Jean-Merimee, a retired U.S. army officer with over 23 years of experience in healthcare, brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the field of mental health. With more than 14 years of focused work in mental health, I have developed a deep understanding of the complexities of psychological well-being, particularly in high-stress environments such as military service. I, as a psychiatric nurse practitioner, emphasizes a holistic approach to care that prioritizes the client's overall well-being, taking into consideration not only their mental health but also their physical, emotional, and social needs.
(978) 350-0295 View (978) 350-0295
Photo of Greg Hard, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, MHS
Greg Hard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, MHS
Online Only
I provide evidence-based treatment for ADHD, including adult and late-diagnosed ADHD, as well as OCD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and behavioral disorders (DMDD, ODD) in youth ages 10+.
Accepting new patients! Are you struggling with ADHD, OCD, depression or anxiety? Have you tried numerous treatments with limited success, or felt unheard by previous prescribers? Taking a patient-centered approach, I believe in utilizing all of the tools available to help my patients achieve optimal results, including evidence-based medication management, therapy, and emerging and holistic treatments. I completed my clinical training at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston, where I gained extensive experience working with adult and adolescent patients, as well as my Master of Health Science degree at Johns Hopkins University.
I provide evidence-based treatment for ADHD, including adult and late-diagnosed ADHD, as well as OCD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and behavioral disorders (DMDD, ODD) in youth ages 10+.
Accepting new patients! Are you struggling with ADHD, OCD, depression or anxiety? Have you tried numerous treatments with limited success, or felt unheard by previous prescribers? Taking a patient-centered approach, I believe in utilizing all of the tools available to help my patients achieve optimal results, including evidence-based medication management, therapy, and emerging and holistic treatments. I completed my clinical training at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston, where I gained extensive experience working with adult and adolescent patients, as well as my Master of Health Science degree at Johns Hopkins University.
(781) 614-7115 View (781) 614-7115
Photo of John-Paul Cloutier, Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP
John-Paul Cloutier
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP
Online Only
I have a particular interest in working with clients with Depression, anxiety, ADHD, and bipolar.
As you embark on this journey, you're investing in resolving today's dilemmas and laying the foundation for a fulfilling, self-directed life. With each session, you are stepping closer to a reality where your actions are in harmony with your true self, leading to personal satisfaction and professional success.
I have a particular interest in working with clients with Depression, anxiety, ADHD, and bipolar.
As you embark on this journey, you're investing in resolving today's dilemmas and laying the foundation for a fulfilling, self-directed life. With each session, you are stepping closer to a reality where your actions are in harmony with your true self, leading to personal satisfaction and professional success.
(857) 370-4486 View (857) 370-4486
Photo of Jennifer Taylor - Vista Family Psychiatry, LLC: Jennifer Taylor, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Vista Family Psychiatry, LLC: Jennifer Taylor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Online Only
I specialize in treating mood disorders, including bipolar disorder, depression, and anxiety, as well as ADHD and the effects of trauma.
I provide a supportive, nonjudgmental space where you can feel heard and understood. My approach is collaborative—we’ll work together to find the right treatment plan for you. I focus on personalized care, using evidence-based strategies to help you manage symptoms, improve daily functioning, and enhance overall well-being.
I specialize in treating mood disorders, including bipolar disorder, depression, and anxiety, as well as ADHD and the effects of trauma.
I provide a supportive, nonjudgmental space where you can feel heard and understood. My approach is collaborative—we’ll work together to find the right treatment plan for you. I focus on personalized care, using evidence-based strategies to help you manage symptoms, improve daily functioning, and enhance overall well-being.
(844) 723-4608 View (844) 723-4608
Photo of Bernadette I Chukwuezi - Collegial psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Collegial psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Worcester, MA 01606
We incorporate different treatment modalities geared towards patient-centered approach for patients who are struggling with Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorders, PTSD, ADHD.
I am a board-cerified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I work with adults and seniors and manages a wide range of psychiatric and mental health conditions. Including ADHD. Anxiety Depression, Mood disorders and trauma related disorders. I am compassionate about providing the highest quality mental and behavioral help services.
We incorporate different treatment modalities geared towards patient-centered approach for patients who are struggling with Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorders, PTSD, ADHD.
I am a board-cerified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I work with adults and seniors and manages a wide range of psychiatric and mental health conditions. Including ADHD. Anxiety Depression, Mood disorders and trauma related disorders. I am compassionate about providing the highest quality mental and behavioral help services.
(339) 300-4381 View (339) 300-4381
Photo of Jenna Jolly, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Jenna Jolly
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
1 Endorsed
Amherst, MA 01002
I offer treatment for adults and adolescents with symptoms of anxiety, depression, OCD, bipolar, schizophrenia, substance use, insomnia, anger, and more.
I encourage my patients to participate in their health journey and I feel that self-care and a healthy lifestyle are strong contributors to one’s mental health. I intertwine a holistic and nutritional approach to my care. Through medication management and counseling, I will tailor a treatment plan individual to you to help you become your best self.
I offer treatment for adults and adolescents with symptoms of anxiety, depression, OCD, bipolar, schizophrenia, substance use, insomnia, anger, and more.
I encourage my patients to participate in their health journey and I feel that self-care and a healthy lifestyle are strong contributors to one’s mental health. I intertwine a holistic and nutritional approach to my care. Through medication management and counseling, I will tailor a treatment plan individual to you to help you become your best self.
(413) 798-5828 View (413) 798-5828

See more therapy options for Barre

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.