Bipolar Disorder Psychiatrists in Oregon
I have specialized training and research experience in first episode psychosis, bipolar disorder, and ADHD.
Hi there - I'm Dr. Philip Cawkwell, board certified in Adult Psychiatry as well as Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. I trained at the top institutions - NYU for medical school, MGH/McLean Harvard for Adult Residency, and Stanford for Child Fellowship. I have the ability to connect with teenagers and young adults, as well as the most up-to-date knowledge on the latest in psychiatric treatments. I am a good fit if you are looking for a provider who is easy to communicate with (both in and out of session), takes your concerns seriously, and is results-driven.
I have specialized training and research experience in first episode psychosis, bipolar disorder, and ADHD.
Hi there - I'm Dr. Philip Cawkwell, board certified in Adult Psychiatry as well as Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. I trained at the top institutions - NYU for medical school, MGH/McLean Harvard for Adult Residency, and Stanford for Child Fellowship. I have the ability to connect with teenagers and young adults, as well as the most up-to-date knowledge on the latest in psychiatric treatments. I am a good fit if you are looking for a provider who is easy to communicate with (both in and out of session), takes your concerns seriously, and is results-driven.
My practice is focused on the initiation and management of psychiatric medications, a supportive psychotherapeutic relationship and lifestyle interventions. I treat a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, bipolar disorders and OCD. I work with clients aged 14 years and older and really enjoy supporting teens and adults as they navigate the challenges of mental health diagnoses and treatment. I want my clients to be active participants in their mental health care and will collaborate with their treatment team to ensure optimal outcomes.
My practice is focused on the initiation and management of psychiatric medications, a supportive psychotherapeutic relationship and lifestyle interventions. I treat a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, bipolar disorders and OCD. I work with clients aged 14 years and older and really enjoy supporting teens and adults as they navigate the challenges of mental health diagnoses and treatment. I want my clients to be active participants in their mental health care and will collaborate with their treatment team to ensure optimal outcomes.
Davonna (Dee) Wilson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202
I provide mental health diagnostic evaluations and medication management, I work and treat an array of acute and chronic conditions with clients aged 7+, some of my specialties include Eating Disorders, ADHD, Behavior/Conduct, Mood disorders, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, OCD, PTSD, LGBTQ+, PMS/PMDD.
I am a board-certified Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My primary goal is to empower clients to regain their well-being and fully embrace their personal and professional lives. I believe compassionate care is at the heart of effective treatment. I prioritize active listening and open communication, allowing patients to express their concerns, fears, and aspirations freely. Creating a non-judgmental space fosters a strong therapeutic alliance based on trust and mutual respect, my approach goes beyond the diagnosis and treatment of mental health conditions, I like to get to know my patients as a whole person.
I provide mental health diagnostic evaluations and medication management, I work and treat an array of acute and chronic conditions with clients aged 7+, some of my specialties include Eating Disorders, ADHD, Behavior/Conduct, Mood disorders, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, OCD, PTSD, LGBTQ+, PMS/PMDD.
I am a board-certified Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My primary goal is to empower clients to regain their well-being and fully embrace their personal and professional lives. I believe compassionate care is at the heart of effective treatment. I prioritize active listening and open communication, allowing patients to express their concerns, fears, and aspirations freely. Creating a non-judgmental space fosters a strong therapeutic alliance based on trust and mutual respect, my approach goes beyond the diagnosis and treatment of mental health conditions, I like to get to know my patients as a whole person.
Esther Moseka Odaibo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97223
Accepting new patients ! Do you experience undue fear and anxiety ? Do you get confused and disorganized ? I am here to help you! My goal is to establish a therapeutic alliance with you. I want you to feel heard, understood and empowered. Together we will establish sustainable goals to create balance and manage the condition that is of concern to you. I work with patients across lifespan while using evidence based patient centered approaches. In addition to providing medication management and therapy for several mental health conditions, I provide treatment for anxiety, depression, ADHD, substance use, and bipolar disorder.
Accepting new patients ! Do you experience undue fear and anxiety ? Do you get confused and disorganized ? I am here to help you! My goal is to establish a therapeutic alliance with you. I want you to feel heard, understood and empowered. Together we will establish sustainable goals to create balance and manage the condition that is of concern to you. I work with patients across lifespan while using evidence based patient centered approaches. In addition to providing medication management and therapy for several mental health conditions, I provide treatment for anxiety, depression, ADHD, substance use, and bipolar disorder.
Heather Richardson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, RN
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97203 (Online Only)
I have experience working with people of all age ranges, but primarily I focus on working with adults between 18-60 years of age. As a PMHNP I am trained and have experience working with the whole spectrum of mental health including anxiety, bipolar, depression, mood, personality, psychosis, sleep, trauma and other mental health disorders. I strive to provide compassionate, caring, and honest mental health care.
I have experience working with people of all age ranges, but primarily I focus on working with adults between 18-60 years of age. As a PMHNP I am trained and have experience working with the whole spectrum of mental health including anxiety, bipolar, depression, mood, personality, psychosis, sleep, trauma and other mental health disorders. I strive to provide compassionate, caring, and honest mental health care.
Beaux Baggensen-Jensen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97225 (Online Only)
I specialize in addressing anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, depression, stress management, as well as trauma.
I am passionate about providing empathetic and holistic mental healthcare, centered on each person’s specific needs. Through medication management, cognitive-behavioral techniques, motivational interviewing, and engaged listening, I am happy to offer an array of solutions in a team-based approach. My goal is to empower individuals to embrace their unique gifts and help them become the best version of themselves.
I specialize in addressing anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, depression, stress management, as well as trauma.
I am passionate about providing empathetic and holistic mental healthcare, centered on each person’s specific needs. Through medication management, cognitive-behavioral techniques, motivational interviewing, and engaged listening, I am happy to offer an array of solutions in a team-based approach. My goal is to empower individuals to embrace their unique gifts and help them become the best version of themselves.
Jacquiline Kariuki
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
Tigard, OR 97223
I specialize in management of Mental health disorders including Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, Sleep disorders, and ADHD.
I am a Psychiatric Mental health Nurse Practitioner working with Adults ages 18 and above in the outpatient setting seeking consultation for diagnosis and treatment of varios Mental health Concerns. My goal is to provide compassionate, holistic, patient-centered care with you as a full partner in decision-making . I work to establish a relationship characterized by mutual respect, empathy, and collaboration
I specialize in management of Mental health disorders including Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, Sleep disorders, and ADHD.
I am a Psychiatric Mental health Nurse Practitioner working with Adults ages 18 and above in the outpatient setting seeking consultation for diagnosis and treatment of varios Mental health Concerns. My goal is to provide compassionate, holistic, patient-centered care with you as a full partner in decision-making . I work to establish a relationship characterized by mutual respect, empathy, and collaboration
Ample Grace Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Corvallis, OR 97333 (Online Only)
We can assess, diagnose, and treat the following conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, PTSD, ADHD, and adult autism.
We are currently accepting new patients for ADHD Neuropsychological testing. Think you have ADHD? No problem! We offer ADHD Objective Testing that can be used to guide ADHD diagnosis for patients. The testing can also be done at the office and via telehealth. We also offer adult autism assessment and DBT-informed therapy. At Ample Grace Psychiatry, we offer a custom approach for each client! We start with understanding where you are now and your challenges. We help you put a plan in place to help you move forward, and we celebrate your successes along the way. We offer an inclusive, safe space with visits to suit your schedule.
We can assess, diagnose, and treat the following conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, PTSD, ADHD, and adult autism.
We are currently accepting new patients for ADHD Neuropsychological testing. Think you have ADHD? No problem! We offer ADHD Objective Testing that can be used to guide ADHD diagnosis for patients. The testing can also be done at the office and via telehealth. We also offer adult autism assessment and DBT-informed therapy. At Ample Grace Psychiatry, we offer a custom approach for each client! We start with understanding where you are now and your challenges. We help you put a plan in place to help you move forward, and we celebrate your successes along the way. We offer an inclusive, safe space with visits to suit your schedule.
Dr. Dianna Harris (Taking New Clients)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PsyD, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Beaverton, OR 97006
I have successfully helped people reduce anxiety and depression that has only partially been helped through therapy by adding psychiatric medication that is targeted to treat worry, panic, OCD, depression and bipolar symptoms.
Accepting NEW Clients (ages 18-65) as of 7/6/24 for Medication Management (I am not taking clients for therapy). Appointments are available in 2 weeks. Complete the Patient Inquiry Form on my website. You will receive a response the same or next day. My practice is primarily composed of adults struggling with anxiety and depression. I find that people reach out to treatment when excessive worry, low motivation, and negative thinking can lead to feeling less confident in their work, behind on tasks at home, and impacting their relationships. I don't treat ADHD and I don't prescribe controlled substances, such as Xanax for anxiety.
I have successfully helped people reduce anxiety and depression that has only partially been helped through therapy by adding psychiatric medication that is targeted to treat worry, panic, OCD, depression and bipolar symptoms.
Accepting NEW Clients (ages 18-65) as of 7/6/24 for Medication Management (I am not taking clients for therapy). Appointments are available in 2 weeks. Complete the Patient Inquiry Form on my website. You will receive a response the same or next day. My practice is primarily composed of adults struggling with anxiety and depression. I find that people reach out to treatment when excessive worry, low motivation, and negative thinking can lead to feeling less confident in their work, behind on tasks at home, and impacting their relationships. I don't treat ADHD and I don't prescribe controlled substances, such as Xanax for anxiety.
Thank you for visiting my profile. I am a Board Certified psychiatrist with over twenty years experience taking care of patients. Practicing for all these years in a field that I love, I have developed deep and lasting bonds with many of them. I am both a psycho-pharmacologist and a psycho-therapist. I treat numerous psychiatric & personality disorders but specialize in Major Depression, Bipolar Disorder, adult ADHD, Anxiety Disorders, Substance Abuse Disorders, Women's Mental Health, and HIV psychiatry. My goal is to help you create solutions and restore balance and well being in your life.
Thank you for visiting my profile. I am a Board Certified psychiatrist with over twenty years experience taking care of patients. Practicing for all these years in a field that I love, I have developed deep and lasting bonds with many of them. I am both a psycho-pharmacologist and a psycho-therapist. I treat numerous psychiatric & personality disorders but specialize in Major Depression, Bipolar Disorder, adult ADHD, Anxiety Disorders, Substance Abuse Disorders, Women's Mental Health, and HIV psychiatry. My goal is to help you create solutions and restore balance and well being in your life.
Casandra Moyer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Keizer, OR 97303 (Online Only)
Dr. Moyer works with children from 5 to 6 years old, adolescents, and all the way to older adults (geriatric) who have autism, attention deficit disorder, anxiety, and depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, substance use problems and more. She provides medication management, health promotion, supportive therapy, psychoanalytic therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and meditation education, basic principles and information.
Dr. Moyer works with children from 5 to 6 years old, adolescents, and all the way to older adults (geriatric) who have autism, attention deficit disorder, anxiety, and depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, substance use problems and more. She provides medication management, health promotion, supportive therapy, psychoanalytic therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and meditation education, basic principles and information.
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Neupathway (Melissa Osada)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Beaverton, OR 97005
Accepting New Patients, same week availability................................... With 28 years in healthcare, Melissa, a U.S. Army vet, is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health NP licensed in WA and OR. Holding an MSN from Gonzaga University, she provides evidence-based care for those 18+, addressing anxiety, depression, bipolar, and trauma-related concerns. Melissa emphasizes connections with patients, values inherent worth, and fosters respect, understanding, and compassion. Collaborating on holistic treatment decisions, she builds strong therapeutic relationships in a safe environment.
Accepting New Patients, same week availability................................... With 28 years in healthcare, Melissa, a U.S. Army vet, is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health NP licensed in WA and OR. Holding an MSN from Gonzaga University, she provides evidence-based care for those 18+, addressing anxiety, depression, bipolar, and trauma-related concerns. Melissa emphasizes connections with patients, values inherent worth, and fosters respect, understanding, and compassion. Collaborating on holistic treatment decisions, she builds strong therapeutic relationships in a safe environment.
Thank you for taking the time to view my profile. I hope we can work together. Practicing for years, in a profession that I love, I have formed deep & lasting bonds with my patients. I am a Board Certified psychiatrist who has a bi-coastal practice in NYC & Portland, Oregon. I care for patients both in-person and virtually. My expertise is in providing both psycho-pharmacology & psychotherapy. I specialize in complex & hard to treat cases & work closely with the LGBTQIA+ community. My areas of expertise include Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, ADHD, PTSD, OCD, & Personality & Substance Use Disorders.
Thank you for taking the time to view my profile. I hope we can work together. Practicing for years, in a profession that I love, I have formed deep & lasting bonds with my patients. I am a Board Certified psychiatrist who has a bi-coastal practice in NYC & Portland, Oregon. I care for patients both in-person and virtually. My expertise is in providing both psycho-pharmacology & psychotherapy. I specialize in complex & hard to treat cases & work closely with the LGBTQIA+ community. My areas of expertise include Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, ADHD, PTSD, OCD, & Personality & Substance Use Disorders.
Neupathway (Onome Edokun)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Hillsboro, OR 97124
Accepting New Patients, same week availability................................... With 28 years in healthcare, Melissa, a U.S. Army vet, is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health NP licensed in WA and OR. Holding an MSN from Gonzaga University, she provides evidence-based care for those 18+, addressing anxiety, depression, bipolar, and trauma-related concerns. Melissa emphasizes connections with patients, values inherent worth, and fosters respect, understanding, and compassion. Collaborating on holistic treatment decisions, she builds strong therapeutic relationships in a safe environment.
Accepting New Patients, same week availability................................... With 28 years in healthcare, Melissa, a U.S. Army vet, is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health NP licensed in WA and OR. Holding an MSN from Gonzaga University, she provides evidence-based care for those 18+, addressing anxiety, depression, bipolar, and trauma-related concerns. Melissa emphasizes connections with patients, values inherent worth, and fosters respect, understanding, and compassion. Collaborating on holistic treatment decisions, she builds strong therapeutic relationships in a safe environment.
Neupathway (Melissa Osada)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Salem, OR 97301
Accepting New Patients, same week availability................................... With 28 years in healthcare, Melissa, a U.S. Army vet, is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health NP licensed in WA and OR. Holding an MSN from Gonzaga University, she provides evidence-based care for those 18+, addressing anxiety, depression, bipolar, and trauma-related concerns. Melissa emphasizes connections with patients, values inherent worth, and fosters respect, understanding, and compassion. Collaborating on holistic treatment decisions, she builds strong therapeutic relationships in a safe environment.
Accepting New Patients, same week availability................................... With 28 years in healthcare, Melissa, a U.S. Army vet, is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health NP licensed in WA and OR. Holding an MSN from Gonzaga University, she provides evidence-based care for those 18+, addressing anxiety, depression, bipolar, and trauma-related concerns. Melissa emphasizes connections with patients, values inherent worth, and fosters respect, understanding, and compassion. Collaborating on holistic treatment decisions, she builds strong therapeutic relationships in a safe environment.
Erika Bales
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97206 (Online Only)
I can help you find relief from symptoms of anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, sleep issues, postpartum issues, OCD, PTSD, and many more.
Accepting new patients! Are you feeling overwhelmed? Taking the first step towards healing can be daunting, but you're not alone on this journey. I am here to help guide you towards a more fulfilling life with symptom relief. I believe in fostering a strong therapeutic alliance built on trust and respect. Together, we will create an effective treatment plan tailored to you. I combine evidence-based techniques with a holistic approach, taking into account your physical, emotional, and mental well-being. My goal is to support you in restoring and maintaining a healthier state of mind.
I can help you find relief from symptoms of anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, sleep issues, postpartum issues, OCD, PTSD, and many more.
Accepting new patients! Are you feeling overwhelmed? Taking the first step towards healing can be daunting, but you're not alone on this journey. I am here to help guide you towards a more fulfilling life with symptom relief. I believe in fostering a strong therapeutic alliance built on trust and respect. Together, we will create an effective treatment plan tailored to you. I combine evidence-based techniques with a holistic approach, taking into account your physical, emotional, and mental well-being. My goal is to support you in restoring and maintaining a healthier state of mind.
Marisa Bell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214 (Online Only)
I particularly enjoy helping people with bipolar, OCD, and PTSD who may be searching for equilibrium and answers to the big questions these new diagnoses have brought up.
I believe people in early adulthood deserve high-quality and compassionate care tailored for this challenging phase of every person’s life. Your twenties (and thirties) can be awesome. Let’s make it happen for you! I am straightforward in my approach, listen carefully and work at your pace. In treatment I attempt to balance my expertise– the science supporting medication decisions– with your own expertise– your body and mind. At the core, I work with people who are struggling and want to reclaim their lives. If you don’t know what’s going on or how to get better, I’m happy to guide you on your path to finding out.
I particularly enjoy helping people with bipolar, OCD, and PTSD who may be searching for equilibrium and answers to the big questions these new diagnoses have brought up.
I believe people in early adulthood deserve high-quality and compassionate care tailored for this challenging phase of every person’s life. Your twenties (and thirties) can be awesome. Let’s make it happen for you! I am straightforward in my approach, listen carefully and work at your pace. In treatment I attempt to balance my expertise– the science supporting medication decisions– with your own expertise– your body and mind. At the core, I work with people who are struggling and want to reclaim their lives. If you don’t know what’s going on or how to get better, I’m happy to guide you on your path to finding out.
Brett Stephan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97209
I provide medication management and therapy for many conditions, including anxiety, depression, bipolar, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, and other conditions. When we meet for our first video session, we'll discuss your symptoms and treatment goals and we'll carefully select medications that fit your unique needs. I am based in Chicago, and I see clients in IL, WA, OR, AZ, NM, MT, AK, ND, and DE, all via telehealth. I am accepting new clients, and I treat both adults and adolescents. I'm excited for the opportunity to work with you.
I provide medication management and therapy for many conditions, including anxiety, depression, bipolar, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, and other conditions. When we meet for our first video session, we'll discuss your symptoms and treatment goals and we'll carefully select medications that fit your unique needs. I am based in Chicago, and I see clients in IL, WA, OR, AZ, NM, MT, AK, ND, and DE, all via telehealth. I am accepting new clients, and I treat both adults and adolescents. I'm excited for the opportunity to work with you.
Shannon Eaton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Hillsboro, OR 97123 (Online Only)
I manage and treat a wide range of mental health concerns including: Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, and ADD.
Now Serving clients in WA and OR! Depressed? Did you know that there are new treatment options offering relief from depression in 2 weeks?!?! No, not SSRI's. No, not SNRI's. YES.... covered by insurance and no, not a huge out of pocket spend! Finally, there IS help & hope for YOU! ADHD challenged? ADHD focused care assessed with Neurocognitive Testing & current, once a day treatments! Psychiatric Medication Management offered online throughout WA. Currently accepting new patients
I manage and treat a wide range of mental health concerns including: Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, and ADD.
Now Serving clients in WA and OR! Depressed? Did you know that there are new treatment options offering relief from depression in 2 weeks?!?! No, not SSRI's. No, not SNRI's. YES.... covered by insurance and no, not a huge out of pocket spend! Finally, there IS help & hope for YOU! ADHD challenged? ADHD focused care assessed with Neurocognitive Testing & current, once a day treatments! Psychiatric Medication Management offered online throughout WA. Currently accepting new patients
NPJ Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Beaverton, OR 97008
Extensive experience in treating- Depression; Anxiety; Sleep disorders; Bipolar; Schizophrenia; Mood D/O; ADHD; Alzheimer's D/O; Dementia.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner with 12 years experience treating Adults/Adolescents & Geriatrics/Dementia. I realize that no two people are the same, so I collaborate with you to tailor treatment/ therapy to meet your specific needs as an individual. I love helping people understand the things that are holding them back with an in-depth approach. You can fully realize your strengths & adjust certain behaviors/thoughts to see things differently in a healthier way. A holistic approach to get you on track to leading a happier fulfilled life by equipping you with the tools you need to be a better you.
Extensive experience in treating- Depression; Anxiety; Sleep disorders; Bipolar; Schizophrenia; Mood D/O; ADHD; Alzheimer's D/O; Dementia.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner with 12 years experience treating Adults/Adolescents & Geriatrics/Dementia. I realize that no two people are the same, so I collaborate with you to tailor treatment/ therapy to meet your specific needs as an individual. I love helping people understand the things that are holding them back with an in-depth approach. You can fully realize your strengths & adjust certain behaviors/thoughts to see things differently in a healthier way. A holistic approach to get you on track to leading a happier fulfilled life by equipping you with the tools you need to be a better you.
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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.