Bipolar Disorder Psychiatrists in Hopewell City County, VA

Photo of Catherine Obinna, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AGPCNP, DNP
Catherine Obinna
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AGPCNP, DNP
Hopewell, VA 23860
My ideal client struggles with depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar disorders, addiction, weight loss, or obesity.
I specialize in mental health, psychiatry, and weight loss, offering holistic, patient-centered care. I use cognitive behavioral therapy, coaching, and culturally sensitive approaches to address depression, anxiety, obesity, and more.
My ideal client struggles with depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar disorders, addiction, weight loss, or obesity.
I specialize in mental health, psychiatry, and weight loss, offering holistic, patient-centered care. I use cognitive behavioral therapy, coaching, and culturally sensitive approaches to address depression, anxiety, obesity, and more.
(804) 570-2500 View (804) 570-2500
Photo of Dr. Nasr Basir Balla, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN
Dr. Nasr Basir Balla
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you looking for a clear plan to help you get back to feeling like yourself? You’re tired of the cycle of toxic relationships or low self-esteem you’re caught in, and you’re ready to make some changes to help you regain that sense of confidence and control that’s missing. Through medication management & a holistic approach to psychiatry, we can identify the root cause of what you’re experiencing and how medication may be a useful tool, as well as other strategies that you can start putting into practice in day-to-day life. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, substance use, ADHD, or something else—I’m here to help.
Are you looking for a clear plan to help you get back to feeling like yourself? You’re tired of the cycle of toxic relationships or low self-esteem you’re caught in, and you’re ready to make some changes to help you regain that sense of confidence and control that’s missing. Through medication management & a holistic approach to psychiatry, we can identify the root cause of what you’re experiencing and how medication may be a useful tool, as well as other strategies that you can start putting into practice in day-to-day life. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, substance use, ADHD, or something else—I’m here to help.
(804) 589-5165 View (804) 589-5165
Photo of Cynthia Timok, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APRN
Cynthia Timok
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APRN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I'm Cindy, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner devoted to helping you navigate life's complexities and achieve mental wellness. I specialize in medication management for anxiety, depression, ADHD, and mood disorders. Additionally, I offer comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, diagnosis, treatment, and medication management, along with referrals for psychotherapy and other services. My goal is to provide a supportive and safe environment where you feel heard and empowered. Together, we'll create a personalized treatment plan to help you achieve a balanced, fulfilling life.
I'm Cindy, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner devoted to helping you navigate life's complexities and achieve mental wellness. I specialize in medication management for anxiety, depression, ADHD, and mood disorders. Additionally, I offer comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, diagnosis, treatment, and medication management, along with referrals for psychotherapy and other services. My goal is to provide a supportive and safe environment where you feel heard and empowered. Together, we'll create a personalized treatment plan to help you achieve a balanced, fulfilling life.
(804) 258-6054 View (804) 258-6054
Photo of Adenike Abdulraheem, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Adenike Abdulraheem
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hello, and welcome. I’m Adenike Abdulraheem(you can call me Nikki). I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based mental health care. With extensive training in both nursing and psychiatry, I specialize in working with individuals across the lifespan to assess, diagnose, and treat a wide range of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, trauma, and mood disorders.
Hello, and welcome. I’m Adenike Abdulraheem(you can call me Nikki). I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based mental health care. With extensive training in both nursing and psychiatry, I specialize in working with individuals across the lifespan to assess, diagnose, and treat a wide range of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, trauma, and mood disorders.
(804) 676-6047 View (804) 676-6047

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Nana O Winbush - Hampton Psych NPs, PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC, MSN
Hampton Psych NPs, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC, MSN
5 Endorsed
Newport News, VA 23601
Nana provides medication management for ages 12-99 year old's experiencing life/stress-related/COVID-19 Adjustment Disorder, Developmental and Intellectual Disabilities, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Autism Spectrum, Insomnia, Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorders, & Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder.
Nana O. Winbush is board certified by Virginia board of Medicine/Nursing Prescriptive Authority as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She manages Hampton Psych NPs, PLLC, where she is currently taking clients in person appointments at 11030 Warwick Blvd, Ste A, Newport News VA or via Telehealth appointments (www.hamptonpsychnp.org). Nana collaborates with skilled Psychiatrist/MDs & experienced counselors & social workers to provide one-on-one individual, family, or group therapy sessions tailored towards the individuals’ unique situations to in military DBQ’s for service connections, MDD, PTSD, ADHD, Anxiety,& Insomnia
Nana provides medication management for ages 12-99 year old's experiencing life/stress-related/COVID-19 Adjustment Disorder, Developmental and Intellectual Disabilities, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Autism Spectrum, Insomnia, Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorders, & Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder.
Nana O. Winbush is board certified by Virginia board of Medicine/Nursing Prescriptive Authority as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She manages Hampton Psych NPs, PLLC, where she is currently taking clients in person appointments at 11030 Warwick Blvd, Ste A, Newport News VA or via Telehealth appointments (www.hamptonpsychnp.org). Nana collaborates with skilled Psychiatrist/MDs & experienced counselors & social workers to provide one-on-one individual, family, or group therapy sessions tailored towards the individuals’ unique situations to in military DBQ’s for service connections, MDD, PTSD, ADHD, Anxiety,& Insomnia
(757) 231-3852 View (757) 231-3852
Photo of Natasha Hill, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Natasha Hill
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Virginia Beach, VA 23452
Natasha is very particular when developing a diagnosis and feels that she has become prudent in distinguishing between ADHD, depression, and bipolar disorder.
Natasha Hill is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Virginia who has been practicing since 2022. She has an MSN, APRN, and PMHNP-BC from Walden University. Natasha's treatment style is unique in that she takes the time to get to know the client holistically upon initial interview and devises the least restrictive treatment plan with the patient. Natasha is very down to earth and outgoing and has several professional and personal experiences from which she bases her treatment upon.
Natasha is very particular when developing a diagnosis and feels that she has become prudent in distinguishing between ADHD, depression, and bipolar disorder.
Natasha Hill is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Virginia who has been practicing since 2022. She has an MSN, APRN, and PMHNP-BC from Walden University. Natasha's treatment style is unique in that she takes the time to get to know the client holistically upon initial interview and devises the least restrictive treatment plan with the patient. Natasha is very down to earth and outgoing and has several professional and personal experiences from which she bases her treatment upon.
(757) 600-0272 View (757) 600-0272
Photo of Samantha Moussari, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Samantha Moussari
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
She treats all general psychiatric issues, with a clinical focus on depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and other mood disorders.
Samantha Moussari, PMHNP is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Samantha’s goal is to provide patient-centered holistic mental health care. She believes each patient is unique and understands the importance of tailoring treatment. Samantha’s approach creates a healing process that ensures you and your family's preferences, values, cultural traditions, and socioeconomic conditions are respected. Patients are an important part of the care team and play a pivotal role in their treatment plans.
She treats all general psychiatric issues, with a clinical focus on depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and other mood disorders.
Samantha Moussari, PMHNP is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Samantha’s goal is to provide patient-centered holistic mental health care. She believes each patient is unique and understands the importance of tailoring treatment. Samantha’s approach creates a healing process that ensures you and your family's preferences, values, cultural traditions, and socioeconomic conditions are respected. Patients are an important part of the care team and play a pivotal role in their treatment plans.
(804) 608-9951 x2 View (804) 608-9951 x2
Photo of Kristopher Inman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Kristopher Inman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Orange, VA 22960
I treat a range of conditions including Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, Bipolar, Autism, and other related concerns.
I recognize the unique challenges encountered by my patients and believe that each person deserves a unique treatment approach. When working with my patients, I approach the big picture and use a combination of therapy and medication to bring out the best in the situation.
I treat a range of conditions including Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, Bipolar, Autism, and other related concerns.
I recognize the unique challenges encountered by my patients and believe that each person deserves a unique treatment approach. When working with my patients, I approach the big picture and use a combination of therapy and medication to bring out the best in the situation.
(540) 329-3665 View (540) 329-3665
Photo of Kadija Conteh-Barrat, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Kadija Conteh-Barrat
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Stafford, VA 22554
I work with clients who may be struggling with depression, bipolar, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, or substance use.
Welcome to Barrat Behavioral Health & Consulting. I'm glad you are here! As a board-certified PMHNP and FNP, I believe in using a holistic, biopsychosocial, and collaborative approach to meet your behavioral health needs. I have over 8 years of experience in a variety of areas including primary care and diverse psychiatric and mental health care including mood disorders, depressive disorders, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, substance use disorders, grief, adjustment disorders, and other psychiatric concerns. I help individuals struggling with mental health issues become the best version of themselves.
I work with clients who may be struggling with depression, bipolar, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, or substance use.
Welcome to Barrat Behavioral Health & Consulting. I'm glad you are here! As a board-certified PMHNP and FNP, I believe in using a holistic, biopsychosocial, and collaborative approach to meet your behavioral health needs. I have over 8 years of experience in a variety of areas including primary care and diverse psychiatric and mental health care including mood disorders, depressive disorders, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, substance use disorders, grief, adjustment disorders, and other psychiatric concerns. I help individuals struggling with mental health issues become the best version of themselves.
(540) 507-2611 View (540) 507-2611
Photo of JOSEPHINE N Bondje - Destiny Helpers Psychiatric Associates LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Destiny Helpers Psychiatric Associates LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Newport News, VA 23607
Josephine has experience in diagnosing and treating patient with ADHD (non-stimulant), Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, OCD, PTSD, and other different forms of psychiatric symptoms and illness.
We are accepting NEW patient. All patients are encouraged to visit our website and fill the book an appointment forms to be contacted. Calls are made within 72 hours weekends not included. We believe everyone have the power to manage any psychiatric symptoms and we strive to help our client see it in order to achieve their life goals. Our goal is to listen to your concerns and empower you with the resources needed to achieve your life goals.
Josephine has experience in diagnosing and treating patient with ADHD (non-stimulant), Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, OCD, PTSD, and other different forms of psychiatric symptoms and illness.
We are accepting NEW patient. All patients are encouraged to visit our website and fill the book an appointment forms to be contacted. Calls are made within 72 hours weekends not included. We believe everyone have the power to manage any psychiatric symptoms and we strive to help our client see it in order to achieve their life goals. Our goal is to listen to your concerns and empower you with the resources needed to achieve your life goals.
(757) 960-8749 View (757) 960-8749
Photo of Arlene Quijano, Physician Assistant, PA
Arlene Quijano
Physician Assistant, PA
Online Only
Our expertise covers behavioral health, addiction treatment, weight management, and conditions like depression and bipolar disorder.
I'm Arlene, a board-certified Physician Assistant and Clinical Temperament Counselor. My expertise includes Behavioral Health Counseling and Primary/Acute Care. I hold a national Surgical Assistant Certification with specialized training in Neurosurgery, Plastics/Reconstruction, General Surgery, and Orthopedics. Additionally, I offer services in Medical Nutrition Therapy, Blood-Type Specific Nutrition Counseling, Diabetes Nutrition Counseling, Temperament Career Counseling, as well as addressing anxiety and depression. I'm passionate about my healthcare profession and have had the privilege serving patients for nearly two decades.
Our expertise covers behavioral health, addiction treatment, weight management, and conditions like depression and bipolar disorder.
I'm Arlene, a board-certified Physician Assistant and Clinical Temperament Counselor. My expertise includes Behavioral Health Counseling and Primary/Acute Care. I hold a national Surgical Assistant Certification with specialized training in Neurosurgery, Plastics/Reconstruction, General Surgery, and Orthopedics. Additionally, I offer services in Medical Nutrition Therapy, Blood-Type Specific Nutrition Counseling, Diabetes Nutrition Counseling, Temperament Career Counseling, as well as addressing anxiety and depression. I'm passionate about my healthcare profession and have had the privilege serving patients for nearly two decades.
(804) 578-7542 View (804) 578-7542
Photo of Aminata Kamara - Vital Health & Integrative Care LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C, FNP-C
Vital Health & Integrative Care LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C, FNP-C
King George, VA 22485
I specialize in ADHD/ADD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, psychotic disorders, PTSD, postpartum depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, Opioid Disorder, alcohol dependence disorders.
I believe in providing excellent, individualistic, and holistic care while treating everyone with dignity and respect focusing on Mental health and Addiction medicine.
I specialize in ADHD/ADD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, psychotic disorders, PTSD, postpartum depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, Opioid Disorder, alcohol dependence disorders.
I believe in providing excellent, individualistic, and holistic care while treating everyone with dignity and respect focusing on Mental health and Addiction medicine.
(540) 640-6097 View (540) 640-6097
Photo of Isaiah Soetan - Milder Touch mental Health & Wellness LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, PMHNP
Milder Touch mental Health & Wellness LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, PMHNP
Richmond, VA 23235
Isaiah's specialty lies in addressing a wide range of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and substance use disorders.
Isaiah is a Doctor of Nursing Practice specializing in psychiatric mental health, committed to providing holistic, compassionate, and personalized care. He is board-certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner by the ANCC. With over 20 years of clinical experience in behavioral health, Isaiah treats patients across the lifespan, focusing on adolescents, young adults, and seniors. He received his Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Babcock University, Nigeria, and earned both his Master's and Doctor of Science in Nursing from Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond.
Isaiah's specialty lies in addressing a wide range of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and substance use disorders.
Isaiah is a Doctor of Nursing Practice specializing in psychiatric mental health, committed to providing holistic, compassionate, and personalized care. He is board-certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner by the ANCC. With over 20 years of clinical experience in behavioral health, Isaiah treats patients across the lifespan, focusing on adolescents, young adults, and seniors. He received his Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Babcock University, Nigeria, and earned both his Master's and Doctor of Science in Nursing from Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond.
(804) 361-9738 View (804) 361-9738
Photo of Natalie Dionne Haslem, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-B, CNE-BC
Natalie Dionne Haslem
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-B, CNE-BC
Online Only
I am here to manage medications for depression, bipolar, ADHD/ADD, schizophrenia, and other disorders.
As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, it will be my goal to advocate for patients who struggle to be heard or respected, and to manage their treatment with compassion, understanding, and attention to medication management and therapy. My job is to manage your medications successfully, providing you with an enhanced quality of life. I am currently seeing clients in Virginia and Georgia will follow.
I am here to manage medications for depression, bipolar, ADHD/ADD, schizophrenia, and other disorders.
As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, it will be my goal to advocate for patients who struggle to be heard or respected, and to manage their treatment with compassion, understanding, and attention to medication management and therapy. My job is to manage your medications successfully, providing you with an enhanced quality of life. I am currently seeing clients in Virginia and Georgia will follow.
(804) 336-2552 View (804) 336-2552
Photo of David W. Reid, Psychiatrist, MD
David W. Reid
Psychiatrist, MD
Virginia Beach, VA 23451
I treat depression, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, ADHD, anxiety, and insomnia.
My wife and I, along with our staff, bring our very best efforts to each person we treat at our practice. I completed medical school at the University of Michigan, and successfully completed my Board examinations for adult and child psychiatry at the Menninger Foundation in Kansas. I stayed on at Menninger’s for 5 additional years; serving as Director of an inpatient psychiatric unit for children and adolescents. My wife and I moved to Virginia Beach in 1981, where I started a similar unit at Eastern Virginia Medical School (EVMS).
I treat depression, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, ADHD, anxiety, and insomnia.
My wife and I, along with our staff, bring our very best efforts to each person we treat at our practice. I completed medical school at the University of Michigan, and successfully completed my Board examinations for adult and child psychiatry at the Menninger Foundation in Kansas. I stayed on at Menninger’s for 5 additional years; serving as Director of an inpatient psychiatric unit for children and adolescents. My wife and I moved to Virginia Beach in 1981, where I started a similar unit at Eastern Virginia Medical School (EVMS).
(757) 760-3898 View (757) 760-3898
Photo of Patricia Bailey, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Patricia Bailey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
My focus areas include addiction, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and mood disorders/ bipolar disorders.
Goal setting is a collaborative approach between both the client/patient and the provider. The first session includes reviewing intake forms, collecting a thorough health history, and building a therapeutic relationship.
My focus areas include addiction, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and mood disorders/ bipolar disorders.
Goal setting is a collaborative approach between both the client/patient and the provider. The first session includes reviewing intake forms, collecting a thorough health history, and building a therapeutic relationship.
(571) 520-7385 View (571) 520-7385
Photo of Shkeya Bellfield - Greater Minds of America, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Greater Minds of America, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Online Only
Here at GMOA, we seek to further assist with medication management for eating disorders, anxiety, bipolar, depression, sleep disorders, schizophrenia, ADHD, ODD, etc.
GMOA provides telemedicine access for clients who require flexibility with their medical appointments we allow online booking. Schedule online at greatermindsoallc.com.
Here at GMOA, we seek to further assist with medication management for eating disorders, anxiety, bipolar, depression, sleep disorders, schizophrenia, ADHD, ODD, etc.
GMOA provides telemedicine access for clients who require flexibility with their medical appointments we allow online booking. Schedule online at greatermindsoallc.com.
(470) 523-1435 View (470) 523-1435
Photo of Joseph M Hicks - Help In Clearly Known Situations/ HICKS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Help In Clearly Known Situations/ HICKS
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Carrollton, VA 23314
The areas of my expertise are depression, anxiety, ADHD, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and Autism.
Driven, dedicated, and highly qualified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner backed by more than 4000 hours of MSN clinical training and more than 10 years of blended experience in nursing leadership in addition to bedside care for patients across the lifespan with broad behavioral health needs in inpatient and outpatient facilities.
The areas of my expertise are depression, anxiety, ADHD, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and Autism.
Driven, dedicated, and highly qualified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner backed by more than 4000 hours of MSN clinical training and more than 10 years of blended experience in nursing leadership in addition to bedside care for patients across the lifespan with broad behavioral health needs in inpatient and outpatient facilities.
(757) 514-8566 View (757) 514-8566
Photo of Dr. Solange Missibi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APRN
Dr. Solange Missibi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APRN
Online Only
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I specialize in supporting individuals aged 10 and older who are navigating mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, substance use disorders, and psychotic disorders.
In our initial sessions, we will work together to build rapport and trust while conducting a thorough assessment. Expect to engage in discussions around lab work and personalized treatment goals, all within an environment that fosters healing and personal growth. I believe that your involvement in the treatment process is key to achieving the best outcomes.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I specialize in supporting individuals aged 10 and older who are navigating mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, substance use disorders, and psychotic disorders.
In our initial sessions, we will work together to build rapport and trust while conducting a thorough assessment. Expect to engage in discussions around lab work and personalized treatment goals, all within an environment that fosters healing and personal growth. I believe that your involvement in the treatment process is key to achieving the best outcomes.
(571) 554-2203 View (571) 554-2203
Photo of Kelly F. Cook, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, APRN, PMHNP
Kelly F. Cook
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, APRN, PMHNP
Online Only
I treat adults with mental health disorders, including anxiety, depression, OCD, bipolar disorder, sleep disorders, PTSD and others.
Let me help you live up to your potential. I help clients analyze the chain of events in their lives, troubleshoot unhelpful narratives and work with them to create a positive life story that is empowering.
I treat adults with mental health disorders, including anxiety, depression, OCD, bipolar disorder, sleep disorders, PTSD and others.
Let me help you live up to your potential. I help clients analyze the chain of events in their lives, troubleshoot unhelpful narratives and work with them to create a positive life story that is empowering.
(973) 298-0812 View (973) 298-0812

See more therapy options for Hopewell City County

Bipolar Disorder Psychiatrists

What is the most successful approach to treating bipolar disorder?

Living with bipolar disorder can be challenging, and a number of therapies have been found effective in providing support to patients as they gain the skills to understand and manage the disorder. Family-focused therapy is often helpful for children and teens (the majority of cases develop before age 19); it aims to minimize mood cycling by improving family communication and reducing conflict. It also helps young people navigate the developmental challenges the disorder can create. Cognitive and behavioral therapy (CBT) and variants such as Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)help patients manage the thoughts and feelings that influence bipolar mood swings as well as develop specific behavioral strategies to counteract them.

What happens in therapy for bipolar disorder?

Because the patterns of mood switching and its triggers differ for each person and can change over time, mood tracking or monitoring becomes a basic way patients learn about the nature of their condition. One of the most common features of therapy is finding a workable method of mood monitoring, in which patients track their daily activities and rate their moods, then use the findings to adjust routines accordingly. Patients learn ways of handling the many stresses that arise in life so that they do not trigger mood swings.

What kinds of problems does therapy help with?

Like many other mental health disorders, BPD is heavily influenced by stress; therapy provides skills for coping with stressors of all kinds. Therapy is extremely important for helping individuals identify the situations that may trigger mood switching, so that mood swings can be prevented. Therapy may especially target recognition of the early stages of mood change so that they can be managed. In addition, therapy helps patients deal with the significant amount of turbulence the disorder can create in relationships and in work life.

What is the goal of therapy for bipolar disorder?

Therapy helps patients set up their lives to maintain stability so that their mood isn’t constantly threatened by daily events. Perhaps the first task of therapy is to educate people about the nature of the disorder. At the same time, a primary goal of therapy is to enhance adherence to drug treatment. Extended periods of mood stability can prompt patients to discontinue medication, triggering relapse, while the early phases of manic episodes can feel so energizing that patients stop medication, ushering in full-blown mania and the altered self-perception that can lead to destructive behaviors. Another major goal of therapy is to understand one’s mood patterns so as to minimize both the frequency and intensity of mood cycling.