Photo of Maura Constance, MPH, PMHNP, FNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Maura Constance
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MPH, PMHNP, FNP, BC
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, VA 22193
I am a warm, compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner devoted to helping people overcome difficulties and thrive. I employ a humanistic approach that looks at the whole person to understand how elements in the past and factors in the present environment can contribute to your current challenges. I listen deeply and work with you to find the right mix of evidence-based therapies and medications to address your particular needs. I have a special interest in depression, anxiety, personality disorders, addiction issues, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.
I am a warm, compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner devoted to helping people overcome difficulties and thrive. I employ a humanistic approach that looks at the whole person to understand how elements in the past and factors in the present environment can contribute to your current challenges. I listen deeply and work with you to find the right mix of evidence-based therapies and medications to address your particular needs. I have a special interest in depression, anxiety, personality disorders, addiction issues, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.
(301) 392-7120 View (301) 392-7120
Photo of Georgina Rose Chidaushe, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Georgina Rose Chidaushe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, VA 22192  (Online Only)
Hello, I'm Rose! I’m currently accepting new patients! I am board-certified and licensed in Virginia and Washington DC. Having worked in a psychiatric hospital, partial hospitalization program (PHP) and out patient office; I have extensive experience working with adults, children and adolescents to manage depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, PTSD, autism spectrum and OCD. Prior to graduating as a nurse practitioner, I had 12 years nursing experience working in neurology, psychiatry, hospice and pain management.
Hello, I'm Rose! I’m currently accepting new patients! I am board-certified and licensed in Virginia and Washington DC. Having worked in a psychiatric hospital, partial hospitalization program (PHP) and out patient office; I have extensive experience working with adults, children and adolescents to manage depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, PTSD, autism spectrum and OCD. Prior to graduating as a nurse practitioner, I had 12 years nursing experience working in neurology, psychiatry, hospice and pain management.
(571) 470-5823 View (571) 470-5823
Photo of Sophia Gizaw, PMHNP-B, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sophia Gizaw
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, MSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodbridge, VA 22192
As a Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I offer medication management and supportive therapy for people with conditions such as Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar disorder, OCD, ADHD, Panic disorder, PTSD, Borderline Personality disorder, Autism, Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective disorder, Intermittent Explosive Disorder, Oppositional defiant disorder, etcetera. With more than ten years of experience in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatric and mental health services, I am solution-oriented and culturally sensitive. I treat my patients with empathy, compassion, and respect.
As a Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I offer medication management and supportive therapy for people with conditions such as Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar disorder, OCD, ADHD, Panic disorder, PTSD, Borderline Personality disorder, Autism, Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective disorder, Intermittent Explosive Disorder, Oppositional defiant disorder, etcetera. With more than ten years of experience in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatric and mental health services, I am solution-oriented and culturally sensitive. I treat my patients with empathy, compassion, and respect.
(571) 556-9335 View (571) 556-9335
Photo of Sumera Nadeem, MD, Psychiatrist
Sumera Nadeem
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, VA 22193
Dr. Nadeem is a Board Certified Psychiatrist with over fifteen years of experience in treating adults with Psychiatric conditions such as Anxiety, Depression, AD/HD, PTSD, Bipolar, and Psychotic Disorders and a variety of other problems including Women's Mental Health. With her extensive experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings, she performs diagnostic evaluations and medication management using exceptional clinical skills and up-to-date knowledge of current medical practice. Her specialty is working with chronic and challenging mental illness, including schizophrenia, bipolar, and impulse control disorders.
Dr. Nadeem is a Board Certified Psychiatrist with over fifteen years of experience in treating adults with Psychiatric conditions such as Anxiety, Depression, AD/HD, PTSD, Bipolar, and Psychotic Disorders and a variety of other problems including Women's Mental Health. With her extensive experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings, she performs diagnostic evaluations and medication management using exceptional clinical skills and up-to-date knowledge of current medical practice. Her specialty is working with chronic and challenging mental illness, including schizophrenia, bipolar, and impulse control disorders.
(571) 444-8318 View (571) 444-8318
Photo of Catherine Ben-Agu - Covenant Behavioral Health LLC, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Covenant Behavioral Health LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, VA 22191  (Online Only)
Catherine is experienced in treating psychiatric disorders like Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, BPD, OCD, PTSD, ADHD/ADD, Schizophrenia, SUD, Eating disorders, Mood disorders, suicidal ideation and therapy.
Catherine Ben-Agu is a board certified licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner in the state of Virginia, Maryland, and Washington DC. She has 8years of experience in psychiatry. Catherine attended Walden University where she completed her bachelors and masters degree in nursing. Through her many years of experience, she has been able to partner with children, adolescents, adults, and geriatric clients seeking help with diverse psychiatric problems. Catherine facilitate significant improvement in client’s presenting symptoms through proper assessment, accurate diagnoses, prescriptions, treatment, and evaluation
Catherine is experienced in treating psychiatric disorders like Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, BPD, OCD, PTSD, ADHD/ADD, Schizophrenia, SUD, Eating disorders, Mood disorders, suicidal ideation and therapy.
Catherine Ben-Agu is a board certified licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner in the state of Virginia, Maryland, and Washington DC. She has 8years of experience in psychiatry. Catherine attended Walden University where she completed her bachelors and masters degree in nursing. Through her many years of experience, she has been able to partner with children, adolescents, adults, and geriatric clients seeking help with diverse psychiatric problems. Catherine facilitate significant improvement in client’s presenting symptoms through proper assessment, accurate diagnoses, prescriptions, treatment, and evaluation
(571) 901-1302 View (571) 901-1302
Photo of Mildred Sarpong, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mildred Sarpong
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, VA 22191
I treat a wide range of mental health/psychiatric conditions, including but not limited to, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, PTSD, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Sleep Disorders, Schizophrenia My commitment is to assist you on your journey to mental health wellness, recognize your potential and improve your quality of life.
I am a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner with training and experience treating patients with psychiatric disorders across the lifespan. I completed my Master of Science in Nursing Degree at Walden University. I have worked in many different capacities as a mental health provider including working with adults, children, and families across the lifespan.
I treat a wide range of mental health/psychiatric conditions, including but not limited to, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, PTSD, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Sleep Disorders, Schizophrenia My commitment is to assist you on your journey to mental health wellness, recognize your potential and improve your quality of life.
I am a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner with training and experience treating patients with psychiatric disorders across the lifespan. I completed my Master of Science in Nursing Degree at Walden University. I have worked in many different capacities as a mental health provider including working with adults, children, and families across the lifespan.
(571) 546-3042 View (571) 546-3042
Photo of Elizabeth Onyejekwe, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Elizabeth Onyejekwe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, VA 22192
I am a psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I treat people struggling with Depression, Anxiety, OCD, Trichotillomania, Tics, Tourette's syndrome, ADHD, Autism, Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder, PTSD, Panic disorder, Bipolar disorder, Intermittent Explosive disorder, Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective disorder, Personality disorders, perinatal and post-natal mood disorders. I offer medication management and supportive therapy with a holistic approach. I customize treatment to meet each person's unique needs and goals.
I am a psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I treat people struggling with Depression, Anxiety, OCD, Trichotillomania, Tics, Tourette's syndrome, ADHD, Autism, Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder, PTSD, Panic disorder, Bipolar disorder, Intermittent Explosive disorder, Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective disorder, Personality disorders, perinatal and post-natal mood disorders. I offer medication management and supportive therapy with a holistic approach. I customize treatment to meet each person's unique needs and goals.
(540) 274-5245 View (540) 274-5245
Photo of Georgina Coca, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Georgina Coca
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodbridge, VA 22192
As a Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I treat people struggling with Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, OCD, Bipolar disorder, Panic disorder, Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective disorder, PTSD, and Borderline personality disorder. With over eight years of experience in outpatient and in-patient psychiatric and Mental Health services, I am solution oriented. My approach embodies my core values of humility, respect, honesty, reliability, motivation, and consistency. I treat my clients with utmost care, active listening, and education. I start medication with the lowest dose for tolerability and adjust as needed.
As a Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I treat people struggling with Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, OCD, Bipolar disorder, Panic disorder, Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective disorder, PTSD, and Borderline personality disorder. With over eight years of experience in outpatient and in-patient psychiatric and Mental Health services, I am solution oriented. My approach embodies my core values of humility, respect, honesty, reliability, motivation, and consistency. I treat my clients with utmost care, active listening, and education. I start medication with the lowest dose for tolerability and adjust as needed.
(571) 450-9127 View (571) 450-9127
Photo of Jeanne Chutuape, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jeanne Chutuape
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, VA 22192
I have experience with children, adolescents and adults who are dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, bipolar, OCD, schizophrenia and other disorders.
We all have solutions within us – it is a matter of learning how to tap into these solutions. The most effective way to heal is by focusing on your strengths and harnessing your available resources while controlling the symptoms. At Inspire Behavioral Health, we consider all treatment options available and strive to take a balanced and integrative approach. While it’s necessary to target the symptoms that lead someone to get help, but it is also important to understand that people are much more than the symptoms they are experiencing.
I have experience with children, adolescents and adults who are dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, bipolar, OCD, schizophrenia and other disorders.
We all have solutions within us – it is a matter of learning how to tap into these solutions. The most effective way to heal is by focusing on your strengths and harnessing your available resources while controlling the symptoms. At Inspire Behavioral Health, we consider all treatment options available and strive to take a balanced and integrative approach. While it’s necessary to target the symptoms that lead someone to get help, but it is also important to understand that people are much more than the symptoms they are experiencing.
(571) 427-0742 View (571) 427-0742
Photo of Deanna Hercik, PMHNP, MSN, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Deanna Hercik
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, RN
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Woodbridge, VA 22192  (Online Only)
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years experience in health care. My goal is to help patients live their best lives by treating the whole person. We will work together to determine the treatment plan that best suits your individual needs. I will provide individualized care, not "one size fits all" approach to medication management.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years experience in health care. My goal is to help patients live their best lives by treating the whole person. We will work together to determine the treatment plan that best suits your individual needs. I will provide individualized care, not "one size fits all" approach to medication management.
(757) 919-3209 View (757) 919-3209
Photo of Catherine Ben Agu, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse
Catherine Ben Agu
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, VA 22192  (Online Only)
Catherine Ben-Agu is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) in Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, D.C. who has more than 10 years of experience in psychiatry. Catherine partners with children, adolescents, adults, as well as geriatric clients who seek help with diverse psychiatric problems. She specializes in facilitating significant improvement in her clients’ present symptoms through proper assessment, accurate diagnoses, prescriptions, treatment, and evaluation.
Catherine Ben-Agu is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) in Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, D.C. who has more than 10 years of experience in psychiatry. Catherine partners with children, adolescents, adults, as well as geriatric clients who seek help with diverse psychiatric problems. She specializes in facilitating significant improvement in her clients’ present symptoms through proper assessment, accurate diagnoses, prescriptions, treatment, and evaluation.
(571) 536-7357 View (571) 536-7357
Photo of Kadija Conteh-Barrat, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kadija Conteh-Barrat
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodbridge, VA 22192
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.
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 Dr. Morgan Alexander, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Morgan Alexander
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, VA 22191  (Online Only)
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
View
Photo of Andreia Sabau - MindLink Psychiatry LLC, DNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
MindLink Psychiatry LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, VA 22192
I recognize that each person's experience is unique, and their mental health care should reflect that individuality. I provide personalized assessments and treatment plans, tailoring my services to meet the specific needs and goals of each individual. Through thorough evaluations and collaborative discussions, I work closely with you to develop a deep understanding of your concerns, symptoms, and life circumstances.
I recognize that each person's experience is unique, and their mental health care should reflect that individuality. I provide personalized assessments and treatment plans, tailoring my services to meet the specific needs and goals of each individual. Through thorough evaluations and collaborative discussions, I work closely with you to develop a deep understanding of your concerns, symptoms, and life circumstances.
(571) 200-4598 View (571) 200-4598
Photo of Dr. Morgan Alexander, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Morgan Alexander
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, VA 22191  (Online Only)
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
View
Photo of Ching Hon, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ching Hon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodbridge, VA 22192  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Finding the right provider and entrusting your health in someone else’s hands can be a daunting task. So, let us take a moment to applaud your strength while you look for a provider who fits your needs! If you've been having low energy or motivation to get out of bed to get your daily tasks completed or feeling overwhelmed to even get anything started, I'm here to help! Psychiatric illnesses presents in many different ways. If you're not feeling like your best self, we can figure it out together!
Finding the right provider and entrusting your health in someone else’s hands can be a daunting task. So, let us take a moment to applaud your strength while you look for a provider who fits your needs! If you've been having low energy or motivation to get out of bed to get your daily tasks completed or feeling overwhelmed to even get anything started, I'm here to help! Psychiatric illnesses presents in many different ways. If you're not feeling like your best self, we can figure it out together!
(540) 845-6940 x1 View (540) 845-6940 x1
Photo of Lartoniah Hassan - Lasting Serenity Telepsychiatry, INC , DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C, MSN, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lasting Serenity Telepsychiatry, INC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C, MSN, CRNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodbridge, VA 22191  (Online Only)
We understand that individuals in need of services may not always prefer the clinical setting. We are giving them the chance to talk to mental health professionals at the comfort of their homes through a secure HIPAA compliant telemedicine platform. Each individual is unique, therefore, each treatment plan is individualized and created for you, with you. We encourage your involvement to enrich understanding regarding your needs while rendering an empathetic approach to your care. Lasting Serenity Telepsychiatry brings a wide array of treatment modalities and depth of experience to provide the most comprehensive care to all clients.
We understand that individuals in need of services may not always prefer the clinical setting. We are giving them the chance to talk to mental health professionals at the comfort of their homes through a secure HIPAA compliant telemedicine platform. Each individual is unique, therefore, each treatment plan is individualized and created for you, with you. We encourage your involvement to enrich understanding regarding your needs while rendering an empathetic approach to your care. Lasting Serenity Telepsychiatry brings a wide array of treatment modalities and depth of experience to provide the most comprehensive care to all clients.
(571) 308-8243 View (571) 308-8243

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Collette Fanyi Ngante, DNP, MPH, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Collette Fanyi Ngante
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MPH, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Prince William, VA 22192
My name is Collette Ngante, I am a psychiatric and mental health Nurse Practitioner. I have a Doctorate of Nursing Practice (DNP). I also have a Masters in Public Health and two Bachelors Degrees in nursing and sociology & anthropology. Working with sociology and anthropology along with my experience in mental health combine in creating a personalized safe space for all clients who may need my help. We Provide an individualistic approach of care with dignity and respect. We also extend our services to Group homes, Foster Care Homes, Assisted Living facilities and other Long-term care facilities .
My name is Collette Ngante, I am a psychiatric and mental health Nurse Practitioner. I have a Doctorate of Nursing Practice (DNP). I also have a Masters in Public Health and two Bachelors Degrees in nursing and sociology & anthropology. Working with sociology and anthropology along with my experience in mental health combine in creating a personalized safe space for all clients who may need my help. We Provide an individualistic approach of care with dignity and respect. We also extend our services to Group homes, Foster Care Homes, Assisted Living facilities and other Long-term care facilities .
(540) 779-1648 View (540) 779-1648
Photo of Doris Owusu - Holistic Psychiatry & Medical Center, LLC, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Holistic Psychiatry & Medical Center, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Prince William, VA 22192
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS BOTH IN-PERSON AND VIRTUAL! We deliver a compassionate and respectable care to all patients. Moreover, while managing your symptoms with medications, we also take into consideration your general well-being. Our provider is dual-certified and licensed as a Family and Psychiatric NP with experience working with pediatrics, young adult, and geriatric populations.
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS BOTH IN-PERSON AND VIRTUAL! We deliver a compassionate and respectable care to all patients. Moreover, while managing your symptoms with medications, we also take into consideration your general well-being. Our provider is dual-certified and licensed as a Family and Psychiatric NP with experience working with pediatrics, young adult, and geriatric populations.
(571) 462-6330 View (571) 462-6330
Photo of Jennifer Sims, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jennifer Sims
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dale City, VA 22193  (Online Only)
Ms. Jennifer Sims is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has over 25 years of experience in psychiatry and in a variety of settings including inpatient, academics, and outpatient. Ms. Sims received her Master’s in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing from Indiana University. She is also a Psychiatric Clinical Nurse Specialist and has an MBA. Her clinical passion is Patient-Centered Care and working in collaboration with Clients to assist them with their mental health well-being. She treats a variety of psychiatric disorders to include, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders.
Ms. Jennifer Sims is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has over 25 years of experience in psychiatry and in a variety of settings including inpatient, academics, and outpatient. Ms. Sims received her Master’s in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing from Indiana University. She is also a Psychiatric Clinical Nurse Specialist and has an MBA. Her clinical passion is Patient-Centered Care and working in collaboration with Clients to assist them with their mental health well-being. She treats a variety of psychiatric disorders to include, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders.
(571) 554-1308 View (571) 554-1308

See more therapy options for Woodbridge

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.