Bipolar Disorder Psychiatrists in Towson, MD

Photo of Lawretta Jinadu, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lawretta Jinadu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Towson, MD 21204  (Online Only)
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who acknowledges each client's individuality and provides a holistic remedy based on personal needs. I am specialized in treating, Depressive disorders, Anxiety, Bipolar, Post Traumatic Stress Disorders, Mood Disorders, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, and Adult psychiatry using an evidence-based approach.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who acknowledges each client's individuality and provides a holistic remedy based on personal needs. I am specialized in treating, Depressive disorders, Anxiety, Bipolar, Post Traumatic Stress Disorders, Mood Disorders, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, and Adult psychiatry using an evidence-based approach.
(443) 672-5252 View (443) 672-5252
Photo of Luisito Torregosa, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Luisito Torregosa
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Towson, MD 21204
I specializes in treating various psychiatric disorders like depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, OCD, PTSD, and insomnia.
Accepting New Clients - I have a 30-year career in the health care field, starting as a nurse working in different areas, including emergency care, and currently practicing as a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. My various and lengthy experiences caring for people gave me the skills to communicate with clients compassionately. My dedication extends beyond diagnosis and treatment; it encapsulates a commitment to compassionate, empathetic care. Embracing a humanistic approach, I believe in the significance of longer appointment times to provide comprehensive, quality care, viewing each individual holistically.
I specializes in treating various psychiatric disorders like depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, OCD, PTSD, and insomnia.
Accepting New Clients - I have a 30-year career in the health care field, starting as a nurse working in different areas, including emergency care, and currently practicing as a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. My various and lengthy experiences caring for people gave me the skills to communicate with clients compassionately. My dedication extends beyond diagnosis and treatment; it encapsulates a commitment to compassionate, empathetic care. Embracing a humanistic approach, I believe in the significance of longer appointment times to provide comprehensive, quality care, viewing each individual holistically.
(443) 730-5651 View (443) 730-5651
Photo of Adetutu Bolaji Awodipe - Revered Holistic Healthcare llc, PMHNP, FNP, MPH, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Revered Holistic Healthcare llc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, MPH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Towson, MD 21286  (Online Only)
I am a Psych NP proficient in offering care to individuals needing care for Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, Anxiety related disorders and Substance Addiction treatment through Medication Assisted Therapy (MAT).
I very much understand some of the hurdles that come with adjusting to chronic mental health illness, stressful family life, changing work environments, evolving living situations/arrangements, loss of Income and/or loved ones and the effect each of such factors can have on an individual's Mental health. At Revered Holistic Healthcare, our aim is to offer non-judgmental care to affect every aspect of an individual's life positively. Looking forward to working with individuals who are willing to be active participants in caring for their mental health via a holistic and collaborative approach on their journey to mental wellness
I am a Psych NP proficient in offering care to individuals needing care for Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, Anxiety related disorders and Substance Addiction treatment through Medication Assisted Therapy (MAT).
I very much understand some of the hurdles that come with adjusting to chronic mental health illness, stressful family life, changing work environments, evolving living situations/arrangements, loss of Income and/or loved ones and the effect each of such factors can have on an individual's Mental health. At Revered Holistic Healthcare, our aim is to offer non-judgmental care to affect every aspect of an individual's life positively. Looking forward to working with individuals who are willing to be active participants in caring for their mental health via a holistic and collaborative approach on their journey to mental wellness
(800) 331-1794 View (800) 331-1794
Photo of Robert Byron Lehman, MD, Psychiatrist
Robert Byron Lehman
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Towson, MD 21204
I have a particular interest in Mood Disorder, Bipolar Disorder and Attention Deficit Disorder.
My expertise is in the area of diagnosis and psychopharmacology. My office is a private practice setting and there is strong staff support for scheduling, medication refills, and for consultation with referring therapists . I have more than 30 years experience in the field and have an interest and involvement in pharmacology research through my company, Pharmasite Research. I have numerous publications in the field of psychopharmacology and lecture frequently in the area of psychopharmacology.
I have a particular interest in Mood Disorder, Bipolar Disorder and Attention Deficit Disorder.
My expertise is in the area of diagnosis and psychopharmacology. My office is a private practice setting and there is strong staff support for scheduling, medication refills, and for consultation with referring therapists . I have more than 30 years experience in the field and have an interest and involvement in pharmacology research through my company, Pharmasite Research. I have numerous publications in the field of psychopharmacology and lecture frequently in the area of psychopharmacology.
(410) 942-9587 View (410) 942-9587
Photo of Talia Griffin, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Talia Griffin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Towson, MD 21204
I specialize in treating Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, and other psychiatric illnesses.
***ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS*** Have you been suffering from symptoms that affect your thinking, perception, mood, and behavior? Are these symptoms making it difficult for you to cope with work, relationships, and other demands? Do you need a provider who will listen to your needs and formulate a comprehensive plan to help you return to your baseline level and effectively get back to normal life? If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, then you are a candidate who can benefit from the treatment I provide that is tailored to your specific needs. My goals are your goals and I will be with you every step of the way.
I specialize in treating Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, and other psychiatric illnesses.
***ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS*** Have you been suffering from symptoms that affect your thinking, perception, mood, and behavior? Are these symptoms making it difficult for you to cope with work, relationships, and other demands? Do you need a provider who will listen to your needs and formulate a comprehensive plan to help you return to your baseline level and effectively get back to normal life? If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, then you are a candidate who can benefit from the treatment I provide that is tailored to your specific needs. My goals are your goals and I will be with you every step of the way.
(443) 353-0965 View (443) 353-0965
Photo of Mariel V Otter, DNP,  , CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mariel V Otter
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, , CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Towson, MD 21286
Mariel Otter, DNP, CRNP-PMH is a board certified, psychiatric nurse practitioner and alumna of Johns Hopkins University and University of Maryland. She has 13 years of psychiatric experience and is rated by U.S. News and World Report Health as an expert in the treatment of depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder. She prioritizes collaboration in the patient experience and is grateful for the opportunity to help others. See what her patients have shared of their experiences on HealthGrades, WebMD, Vitals.com, etc. or google reviews of her practice Otter Integrative Psychiatry.
Mariel Otter, DNP, CRNP-PMH is a board certified, psychiatric nurse practitioner and alumna of Johns Hopkins University and University of Maryland. She has 13 years of psychiatric experience and is rated by U.S. News and World Report Health as an expert in the treatment of depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder. She prioritizes collaboration in the patient experience and is grateful for the opportunity to help others. See what her patients have shared of their experiences on HealthGrades, WebMD, Vitals.com, etc. or google reviews of her practice Otter Integrative Psychiatry.
(410) 936-6731 View (410) 936-6731
Photo of Dr. Janet Smith Stasiak - You Matter Psychiatry , DNP, PMHNP, FNP-BC, ASDCS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
You Matter Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-BC, ASDCS
Verified Verified
Towson, MD 21204  (Online Only)
Accepting Clients! I'm a Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist & provide diagnosis and treatment for adults on the spectrum. I also offer Neurodivergent specific individual and couples therapy. I treat depression, anxiety, bipolar, & other disorders with medication & holistic treatment options based on your preferences & goals. I'm experienced with complex medical issues & offer advanced options including genetic testing. At the end of your visit you should feel comfortable with the plan, listened to, and that your mental health matters.
Accepting Clients! I'm a Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist & provide diagnosis and treatment for adults on the spectrum. I also offer Neurodivergent specific individual and couples therapy. I treat depression, anxiety, bipolar, & other disorders with medication & holistic treatment options based on your preferences & goals. I'm experienced with complex medical issues & offer advanced options including genetic testing. At the end of your visit you should feel comfortable with the plan, listened to, and that your mental health matters.
(410) 755-5630 View (410) 755-5630
Photo of Erica Ingram, CRNP, PMH, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Erica Ingram
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMH
Verified Verified
Towson, MD 21286
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who works with children/adolescents/adults with mood disorders (such as depression and bipolar disorder). I empower individuals to reach their goals by assisting them in developing positive coping skills.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who works with children/adolescents/adults with mood disorders (such as depression and bipolar disorder). I empower individuals to reach their goals by assisting them in developing positive coping skills.
(410) 337-7772 View (410) 337-7772
Photo of Ruth Bissell, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ruth Bissell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Towson, MD 21204  (Online Only)
Ruth earned a BSN with a focus on addiction studies. She assisted with the recovery of adolescents and adults by using Medication Assisted Therapy (MAT), counseling, education, and group therapy. Since addiction treatment often requires treating other psychiatric problems, Ruth gained expertise in the treatment of psychiatric disorders such as anxiety, depression, bipolar, and ADHD as well studying Motivational Therapy (MT) and psychotherapy.
Ruth earned a BSN with a focus on addiction studies. She assisted with the recovery of adolescents and adults by using Medication Assisted Therapy (MAT), counseling, education, and group therapy. Since addiction treatment often requires treating other psychiatric problems, Ruth gained expertise in the treatment of psychiatric disorders such as anxiety, depression, bipolar, and ADHD as well studying Motivational Therapy (MT) and psychotherapy.
(443) 746-0130 View (443) 746-0130
Photo of Kristin Huntley, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kristin Huntley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Towson, MD 21204  (Online Only)
Kristin Huntley is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 14 years of experience in the healthcare field. Kristin is a graduate from Walden University, where she obtained her Master’s of Science in Nursing. She has experience in the diagnosis and treatment of psychiatric disorders, such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and psychotic disorders among children, adolescents, and adults.
Kristin Huntley is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 14 years of experience in the healthcare field. Kristin is a graduate from Walden University, where she obtained her Master’s of Science in Nursing. She has experience in the diagnosis and treatment of psychiatric disorders, such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and psychotic disorders among children, adolescents, and adults.
(443) 233-1225 View (443) 233-1225
Prevail Healthcare Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Towson, MD 21286
Diagnosis and treatment for anxiety, depression, bipolar, and other psychiatric illnesses.
The ideal client for Prevail Mental Health Services is someone seeking help for mental health concerns, such as anxiety or depression psychosis and other mental health issues, who values mental health and is motivated to work towards achieving better wellness. They need a safe, non-judgmental space, tailored evidence-based treatments, and respect for their cultural background. Their goals include reducing symptoms, improving coping, relationships, and quality of life. We strive to provide a supportive environment where we work collaboratively to develop a personalized treatment plan to achieve these goals.
Diagnosis and treatment for anxiety, depression, bipolar, and other psychiatric illnesses.
The ideal client for Prevail Mental Health Services is someone seeking help for mental health concerns, such as anxiety or depression psychosis and other mental health issues, who values mental health and is motivated to work towards achieving better wellness. They need a safe, non-judgmental space, tailored evidence-based treatments, and respect for their cultural background. Their goals include reducing symptoms, improving coping, relationships, and quality of life. We strive to provide a supportive environment where we work collaboratively to develop a personalized treatment plan to achieve these goals.
(410) 593-0823 View (410) 593-0823
Photo of Anson Liu - Dr. Anson Liu, M.D. & Dr. Emily Gavett, M.D., MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Anson Liu, M.D. & Dr. Emily Gavett, M.D.
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Towson, MD 21204
We provide comprehensive Child, Adolescent and Adult psychiatric treatment, psychotherapy treatment in a non-judgmental, patient-centered environment. Dr. Liu and Dr. Gavett both have extensive experience working with children, adolescents, and adults who struggle with Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), trauma-related disorders (including PTSD), ADHD, child behavioral problems, personality disorders, Family/Parent-Child/Couple Conflicts and high functioning individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders. Treatment begins with a comprehensive diagnostic evaluation, where we will review biological, social, and psychological contributions to your present concerns.
We provide comprehensive Child, Adolescent and Adult psychiatric treatment, psychotherapy treatment in a non-judgmental, patient-centered environment. Dr. Liu and Dr. Gavett both have extensive experience working with children, adolescents, and adults who struggle with Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), trauma-related disorders (including PTSD), ADHD, child behavioral problems, personality disorders, Family/Parent-Child/Couple Conflicts and high functioning individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders. Treatment begins with a comprehensive diagnostic evaluation, where we will review biological, social, and psychological contributions to your present concerns.
(443) 901-4630 View (443) 901-4630
Photo of Natalie Beaty, MD, MS, Psychiatrist
Natalie Beaty
Psychiatrist, MD, MS
Verified Verified
Towson, MD 21286
I am an Johns Hopkins trained Psychiatrist in Baltimore, MD who focuses on careful evaluation and treatment for anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder and attention deficient disorders. I do evaluation, management and planning for mental health treatment during pregnancy, as well as for changes experienced in perimenopause and menopause. Ages 14+ are welcome.
I am an Johns Hopkins trained Psychiatrist in Baltimore, MD who focuses on careful evaluation and treatment for anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder and attention deficient disorders. I do evaluation, management and planning for mental health treatment during pregnancy, as well as for changes experienced in perimenopause and menopause. Ages 14+ are welcome.
(443) 808-0507 View (443) 808-0507
Photo of Tarleen K Weston, DNP, PMHNP, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tarleen K Weston
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, CRNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Towson, MD 21204  (Online Only)
I am a doctorally-prepared, board-certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) working in a NP-owned outpatient office in Towson, MD. The typical age range of my clients is older adolescents (16+) to adults below age 65. I provide care for many conditions including depression, anxiety, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), bipolar disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). I also provide care for survivors of sexual abuse and childhood abuse/neglect.
I am a doctorally-prepared, board-certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) working in a NP-owned outpatient office in Towson, MD. The typical age range of my clients is older adolescents (16+) to adults below age 65. I provide care for many conditions including depression, anxiety, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), bipolar disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). I also provide care for survivors of sexual abuse and childhood abuse/neglect.
(410) 847-7987 View (410) 847-7987
Photo of Shailoah Wilson, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shailoah Wilson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP
Verified Verified
Towson, MD 21204  (Online Only)
With over 6yrs of practice experience in community mental health, Shailoah Wilson, CRNP-PMH is able to assist you with a variety of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, trauma, bipolar disorder, ADHD, OCD, and insomnia.
Are you looking for a prescriber who will see you and evaluate you as whole person? Here at Rooted and Grounded Wellness Services we are dedicated to walking alongside you on your journey to wellness. We use a holistic approach and integrate therapy techniques/modalities in order to create the best treatment plan for you.
With over 6yrs of practice experience in community mental health, Shailoah Wilson, CRNP-PMH is able to assist you with a variety of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, trauma, bipolar disorder, ADHD, OCD, and insomnia.
Are you looking for a prescriber who will see you and evaluate you as whole person? Here at Rooted and Grounded Wellness Services we are dedicated to walking alongside you on your journey to wellness. We use a holistic approach and integrate therapy techniques/modalities in order to create the best treatment plan for you.
(410) 593-3299 View (410) 593-3299
Photo of Julie Brownley, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist
Julie Brownley
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Towson, MD 21204  (Online Only)
Psychiatryforwomen.org - Accepting Patients - Out Of Network With Insurance - Dr. Julie Brownley is a board certified women's psychiatrist. She attended medical school and Ph.D. training at University of Maryland and residency training in Adult Psychiatry at Johns Hopkins Hospital. She treats individuals seeking WOMEN-Specific care (LGBTQ individuals included) with depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, trauma and grief. She is a Reproductive Psychiatrist managing mood changes and anxiety due to hormone changes associated with menstruation, pregnancy, postpartum and menopause. VISIT psychiatryforwomen.org for info
Psychiatryforwomen.org - Accepting Patients - Out Of Network With Insurance - Dr. Julie Brownley is a board certified women's psychiatrist. She attended medical school and Ph.D. training at University of Maryland and residency training in Adult Psychiatry at Johns Hopkins Hospital. She treats individuals seeking WOMEN-Specific care (LGBTQ individuals included) with depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, trauma and grief. She is a Reproductive Psychiatrist managing mood changes and anxiety due to hormone changes associated with menstruation, pregnancy, postpartum and menopause. VISIT psychiatryforwomen.org for info
(667) 206-6841 View (667) 206-6841
Lucille Urgent Care
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP, CRNP, RN-BC
Verified Verified
Towson, MD 21204
I see patients with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, psychotic disorders, PTSD, and Stress disorder.
I am a certified prepared Psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I treat patients with mental health conditions across lifespans. I am passionate about treatment and immediate attention to mental health issues. My goal is to discuss an appropriate treatment plan with my patients be it psychotherapy, medication management, or referral to a rehabilitation center.
I see patients with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, psychotic disorders, PTSD, and Stress disorder.
I am a certified prepared Psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I treat patients with mental health conditions across lifespans. I am passionate about treatment and immediate attention to mental health issues. My goal is to discuss an appropriate treatment plan with my patients be it psychotherapy, medication management, or referral to a rehabilitation center.
(443) 218-9893 View (443) 218-9893
Photo of Jordan Doehner, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jordan Doehner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
Towson, MD 21204
I have 5 years' experience working in-patient Geriatric Psychiatry, working with patients with dementia, anxiety, bipolar, unipolar depression, and PTSD.
I strive to create an environment where clients feel comfortable to share their story and feel heard. I focus on treating the entire client rather than just focusing on a diagnosis and have received positive feedback on the way I educate clients on the medications I recommend. I work with ages 16+ and am currently accepting new clients.
I have 5 years' experience working in-patient Geriatric Psychiatry, working with patients with dementia, anxiety, bipolar, unipolar depression, and PTSD.
I strive to create an environment where clients feel comfortable to share their story and feel heard. I focus on treating the entire client rather than just focusing on a diagnosis and have received positive feedback on the way I educate clients on the medications I recommend. I work with ages 16+ and am currently accepting new clients.
(443) 785-2144 View (443) 785-2144
Photo of Alfred W Forrester, MD, Psychiatrist
Alfred W Forrester
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Towson, MD 21286
Most of my clinical time is spent in assessing patients, making pharmacologic recommendations in the management of major psychiatric disorders, and providing follow-up medication management. Areas of interest include the management of affective disorders - major depressive disorder and bipolar disorder; anxiety disorders, PTSD and OCD; adult ADHD; the interface of major medical illness and psychiatric response; and a variety of adjustment disorders resulting from lifestyle issues. I also have experience in the management of substance use disorders and am the Medical Director of a nationally acclaimed addiction program in Towson.
Most of my clinical time is spent in assessing patients, making pharmacologic recommendations in the management of major psychiatric disorders, and providing follow-up medication management. Areas of interest include the management of affective disorders - major depressive disorder and bipolar disorder; anxiety disorders, PTSD and OCD; adult ADHD; the interface of major medical illness and psychiatric response; and a variety of adjustment disorders resulting from lifestyle issues. I also have experience in the management of substance use disorders and am the Medical Director of a nationally acclaimed addiction program in Towson.
(410) 734-2389 View (410) 734-2389
Photo of Betty Githuku, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Betty Githuku
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Towson, MD 21286
Conditions I treat include but are not limited to ADHD, Major Depressive Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorders, Schizophrenia, and Bipolar Disorders.
My philosophy is centered around partnering with my patients in their healing journey, and I strongly believe that our mental health is the foundation of our overall being. When we prioritize our mental health, other aspects of our lives can thrive accordingly. That's why I practice a holistic approach to mental health with a personalized plan for each patient. My goal is to provide compassionate and judgment-free care to all of my patients. We strive to ensure that you feel comfortable, supported, and important throughout your treatment. If you're looking for a partner in your mental health journey, I'm here to help.
Conditions I treat include but are not limited to ADHD, Major Depressive Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorders, Schizophrenia, and Bipolar Disorders.
My philosophy is centered around partnering with my patients in their healing journey, and I strongly believe that our mental health is the foundation of our overall being. When we prioritize our mental health, other aspects of our lives can thrive accordingly. That's why I practice a holistic approach to mental health with a personalized plan for each patient. My goal is to provide compassionate and judgment-free care to all of my patients. We strive to ensure that you feel comfortable, supported, and important throughout your treatment. If you're looking for a partner in your mental health journey, I'm here to help.
(443) 785-3064 View (443) 785-3064
1
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.