Bipolar Disorder Psychiatrists in Maryville, TN

Photo of Dr. Justin Lapollo - Maryville Psychiatry , DO, Psychiatrist
Maryville Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Maryville, TN 37804
My team and I want to help you become your optimal self. We have a vast array of experience in many areas including severe mood disorders, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorders, trauma related disorders, and psychotic disorders. We see children, adolescents and adults. We are trained in complicated psychotropic medication management, multiple therapy modalities, and interventional techniques like Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), Ketamine Therapy and Tirzepatide. Our goal is to offer the most world class psychiatric care in hopes of reducing suffering and helping individuals become the most optimal versions of their self.
My team and I want to help you become your optimal self. We have a vast array of experience in many areas including severe mood disorders, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorders, trauma related disorders, and psychotic disorders. We see children, adolescents and adults. We are trained in complicated psychotropic medication management, multiple therapy modalities, and interventional techniques like Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), Ketamine Therapy and Tirzepatide. Our goal is to offer the most world class psychiatric care in hopes of reducing suffering and helping individuals become the most optimal versions of their self.
(865) 500-3993 View (865) 500-3993
Photo of Sally (Sarah Elizabeth) Summers, PMHNP, MSN-CNL, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sally (Sarah Elizabeth) Summers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN-CNL
Verified Verified
Maryville, TN 37801
Waitlist for new clients
I provide psychiatric evaluation and medication management specializing in ADHD, Anxiety disorders (Generalized, panic, and Post-traumatic Stress Disorders), Major depressive disorders, Bipolar Disorders, and Schizoaffective disorder.
Sally has a Bachelor's in Psychology and two advanced degrees in Nursing. She provides psychiatric services, including psychiatric evaluation and medication management for children, adolescents, and adults. Her primary goal is to make her patients feel "seen" with a caring, non-judgemental approach. She provides high-quality, evidence-based care tailored to her patient's diagnosis and lifestyle in hopes of reducing individual suffering and helping her patients become the most optimal version of themself.
I provide psychiatric evaluation and medication management specializing in ADHD, Anxiety disorders (Generalized, panic, and Post-traumatic Stress Disorders), Major depressive disorders, Bipolar Disorders, and Schizoaffective disorder.
Sally has a Bachelor's in Psychology and two advanced degrees in Nursing. She provides psychiatric services, including psychiatric evaluation and medication management for children, adolescents, and adults. Her primary goal is to make her patients feel "seen" with a caring, non-judgemental approach. She provides high-quality, evidence-based care tailored to her patient's diagnosis and lifestyle in hopes of reducing individual suffering and helping her patients become the most optimal version of themself.
(865) 213-7490 View (865) 213-7490
Photo of Kelsey Wallace, MPH, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kelsey Wallace
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MPH, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Maryville, TN 37802
I am a Nurse Practitioner board certified in Adult/Gero Primary Care and Psychiatric Mental Health. I provide psychiatric evaluation, medication management and supportive psychotherapy for patients 13 years old and above, focusing on trauma-related disorders, depression, anxiety, ADHD and bipolar disorder. I have a special interest in survivors of sexual violence & first responders.
I am a Nurse Practitioner board certified in Adult/Gero Primary Care and Psychiatric Mental Health. I provide psychiatric evaluation, medication management and supportive psychotherapy for patients 13 years old and above, focusing on trauma-related disorders, depression, anxiety, ADHD and bipolar disorder. I have a special interest in survivors of sexual violence & first responders.
(865) 205-7374 View (865) 205-7374
Photo of Hannah Hutchins, BS-Edu, BSN-RN, MSN-APN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Hannah Hutchins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BS-Edu, BSN-RN, MSN-APN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maryville, TN 37802
My clients are from all backgrounds and cultures. I have experience working with an array of diagnoses including: Adjustment Disorders, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Bipolar Disorders, Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder, Eating Disorders, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Insomnia, Intermittent Explosive Disorder, Learning Disabilities, Major Depressive Disorder, Mood Related Disorders, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Panic Disorder, Personality Disorders, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Post-Partum Depression, Psychosis, Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders, Self-Harming and Suicidal Ideation.
My clients are from all backgrounds and cultures. I have experience working with an array of diagnoses including: Adjustment Disorders, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Bipolar Disorders, Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder, Eating Disorders, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Insomnia, Intermittent Explosive Disorder, Learning Disabilities, Major Depressive Disorder, Mood Related Disorders, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Panic Disorder, Personality Disorders, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Post-Partum Depression, Psychosis, Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders, Self-Harming and Suicidal Ideation.
(865) 509-9483 View (865) 509-9483
Photo of Bright Star Child And Adolescent Psychiatry - Bright Star Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Bright Star Child and Adolescent Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Not Verified Not Verified
1 Endorsed
Maryville, TN 37801
Bright Star Child and Adolescent Psychiatry provides in-person appointments as well as virtual visits to provide mental health assessments and treatment to children and teens. Dr. Cynthia J. Easter, MD, is a board-certified pediatrician with extensive experience providing mental health care to children and adolescents. Dr. Easter evaluates and treats anxiety, depression, attention deficit and hyperactivity, disruptive mood dysregulation, oppositional defiance, and behavioral expressions of autism spectrum disorders as well as other mental health conditions. Give us a call to discuss how we can help your child shine.
Bright Star Child and Adolescent Psychiatry provides in-person appointments as well as virtual visits to provide mental health assessments and treatment to children and teens. Dr. Cynthia J. Easter, MD, is a board-certified pediatrician with extensive experience providing mental health care to children and adolescents. Dr. Easter evaluates and treats anxiety, depression, attention deficit and hyperactivity, disruptive mood dysregulation, oppositional defiance, and behavioral expressions of autism spectrum disorders as well as other mental health conditions. Give us a call to discuss how we can help your child shine.
(865) 205-8975 View (865) 205-8975
Photo of Melissa Horn - Southland Health Services, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Southland Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Maryville, TN 37801
I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who specializes in treating ADHD, anxiety, mood disorders, and depression. I strive to have patients of all ages across the life achieve a better physiologic and mental state by offering medication management, as well as, provide counseling and educational services.
I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who specializes in treating ADHD, anxiety, mood disorders, and depression. I strive to have patients of all ages across the life achieve a better physiologic and mental state by offering medication management, as well as, provide counseling and educational services.
(865) 217-2187 View (865) 217-2187
Photo of Sadonya Meadows Allen, MSN, PhD, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sadonya Meadows Allen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PhD, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Maryville, TN 37801
I have worked in the field of behavioral health since 2001. My current focus is psychiatric medication management. I treat ages across the lifespan and specialize in treating ADHD, depression, anxiety, and mood disorder.
I have worked in the field of behavioral health since 2001. My current focus is psychiatric medication management. I treat ages across the lifespan and specialize in treating ADHD, depression, anxiety, and mood disorder.
(865) 276-8216 View (865) 276-8216
Photo of Dawit Zemichael - Healthy Living Medical Services LLC, MD, MS, Psychiatrist
Healthy Living Medical Services LLC
Psychiatrist, MD, MS
Verified Verified
Maryville, TN 37801
We take a positive approach to your addiction or mental health needs. Our goal is to help you find success without judgement, offering positive support. We have witnessed many success stories and provide a structured atmosphere through your treatment with Suboxone (or other medications). We also provide Psychiatry & Weight Management services. Dr Dawit Zemichael uses the most advanced approaches in the treatment of mental health, addictions & behavioral problems. He utilizes a holistic approach in his treatment modality. Qualifications: Years of practice-18 years. *Education: East Tennessee State University, Quillan School of Medicine, London University Medical College & Old Church Hospital London, England & Training in Dublin Ireland.
We take a positive approach to your addiction or mental health needs. Our goal is to help you find success without judgement, offering positive support. We have witnessed many success stories and provide a structured atmosphere through your treatment with Suboxone (or other medications). We also provide Psychiatry & Weight Management services. Dr Dawit Zemichael uses the most advanced approaches in the treatment of mental health, addictions & behavioral problems. He utilizes a holistic approach in his treatment modality. Qualifications: Years of practice-18 years. *Education: East Tennessee State University, Quillan School of Medicine, London University Medical College & Old Church Hospital London, England & Training in Dublin Ireland.
(865) 276-7022 View (865) 276-7022
Photo of Dr. Chenhang Zou, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Chenhang Zou
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Maryville, TN 37803
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
View
Photo of April Snell, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
April Snell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maryville, TN 37802  (Online Only)
My passion for behavioral health extends beyond the confines of my practice. I am an active member of local organizations, volunteering my time and expertise to raise awareness and advocate for accessible, quality behavioral health services. I am also passionate about educating the public about behavioral health, dispelling myths and misconceptions, and fostering a culture of acceptance and support.
My passion for behavioral health extends beyond the confines of my practice. I am an active member of local organizations, volunteering my time and expertise to raise awareness and advocate for accessible, quality behavioral health services. I am also passionate about educating the public about behavioral health, dispelling myths and misconceptions, and fostering a culture of acceptance and support.
(865) 355-0807 View (865) 355-0807
Photo of Melissa L Spears, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Melissa L Spears
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Maryville, TN 37801
(865) 800-3583 View (865) 800-3583

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Sandra Okengwu - Sandra Okengwu (Licensed in Tennessee/New York), PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sandra Okengwu (Licensed in Tennessee/New York)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Lookout Mountain, TN 37350  (Online Only)
My experience in direct patient care has provided me with the knowledge and expertise in managing various mental health conditions, including ADHD, OCD, depression, anxiety, substance abuse, schizophrenia, and bipolar etc.
It is with great pleasure that I introduce myself as your dedicated mental health provider. I am an ANCC board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner licensed to practice in New York State and Tennessee State. With a deep passion for helping others and over 15 years of experience as a mental health nurse, I am honored to serve as your trusted ally on your journey towards improved mental well-being.
My experience in direct patient care has provided me with the knowledge and expertise in managing various mental health conditions, including ADHD, OCD, depression, anxiety, substance abuse, schizophrenia, and bipolar etc.
It is with great pleasure that I introduce myself as your dedicated mental health provider. I am an ANCC board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner licensed to practice in New York State and Tennessee State. With a deep passion for helping others and over 15 years of experience as a mental health nurse, I am honored to serve as your trusted ally on your journey towards improved mental well-being.
(716) 419-4232 View (716) 419-4232
Photo of Sana Pathan - SAP Psychiatry, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
SAP Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kingsport, TN 37660
My clients often have goals of treating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, OCD, ADHD and more. My goal is to guide clients on the path to restoring balance in their lives and achieving their best selves through medication management, lifestyle modifications, and education.
My clients often have goals of treating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, OCD, ADHD and more. My goal is to guide clients on the path to restoring balance in their lives and achieving their best selves through medication management, lifestyle modifications, and education.
(423) 295-7829 View (423) 295-7829
Photo of Erika Bales, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Erika Bales
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37932  (Online Only)
I can help you find relief from symptoms of anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, sleep issues, postpartum issues, OCD, PTSD, and 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 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.
(629) 276-5592 View (629) 276-5592
Photo of Tammy Ellington, PMHNP,  NP,  DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tammy Ellington
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, NP, DNP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37922
Tammy Ellington is an ANCC board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She has worked in both private practice and community mental health settings, and has experience treating anxiety and panic disorders, depression, bipolar disorders, psychosis, schizophrenia, schizoaffective, trauma, personality disorders, eating disorders, OCD, prolonged grief, postpartum depression, anger and impulse control issues, conduct disorders, ODD, autism spectrum disorders, ADHD, executive function deficits, sensory integration issues, suicidal ideation, self-harm, and co-occurring substance use.
Tammy Ellington is an ANCC board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She has worked in both private practice and community mental health settings, and has experience treating anxiety and panic disorders, depression, bipolar disorders, psychosis, schizophrenia, schizoaffective, trauma, personality disorders, eating disorders, OCD, prolonged grief, postpartum depression, anger and impulse control issues, conduct disorders, ODD, autism spectrum disorders, ADHD, executive function deficits, sensory integration issues, suicidal ideation, self-harm, and co-occurring substance use.
(865) 432-0319 View (865) 432-0319
Photo of Amanda Walls - Mind Body Beauty, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mind Body Beauty
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Harriman, TN 37748
Both providers specialize in anxiety, depression, attention deficit hyperactive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and bipolar disorder.
Mind Body Beauty is a veteran owned company with two board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners striving to give back to their local community. We strive to develop a rapport with members of our community by providing a patient-centered approach and developing individualized treatment plans.
Both providers specialize in anxiety, depression, attention deficit hyperactive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and bipolar disorder.
Mind Body Beauty is a veteran owned company with two board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners striving to give back to their local community. We strive to develop a rapport with members of our community by providing a patient-centered approach and developing individualized treatment plans.
(865) 830-6071 View (865) 830-6071
Photo of Libby Burns, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Libby Burns
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37909
She has had the privilege of helping people with a wide range of physical and mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and substance use disorder.
Libby Burns is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Tennessee who has been practicing since 2010. She has a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Tennessee Wesleyan University, a Master of Science in Nursing with Family Nurse Practitioner Certification from Frontier Nursing University, and a post-Master's PMHNP from the University of Tennessee. Libby is a healthcare provider passionate about helping people live their best lives and believes that mental health is just as important as physical health. Libby is here to provide the care and support to overcome your mental health challenges and thrive.
She has had the privilege of helping people with a wide range of physical and mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and substance use disorder.
Libby Burns is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Tennessee who has been practicing since 2010. She has a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Tennessee Wesleyan University, a Master of Science in Nursing with Family Nurse Practitioner Certification from Frontier Nursing University, and a post-Master's PMHNP from the University of Tennessee. Libby is a healthcare provider passionate about helping people live their best lives and believes that mental health is just as important as physical health. Libby is here to provide the care and support to overcome your mental health challenges and thrive.
(865) 390-3671 View (865) 390-3671
Photo of Hannah Braden, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Hannah Braden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37932
Hannah Braden is a dual certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She obtained a Bachelor of Nursing degree from Lincoln Memorial University in 2015 and a Doctor of Nursing Practice from the University of Tennessee Health Science Center in 2018. She has experience in caring for patients across the lifespan in both inpatient and outpatient settings. She provides psychiatric evaluation and medication management to patients 18 years and older. Her areas of focus include depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, psychotic disorders, and attention deficit disorder.
Hannah Braden is a dual certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She obtained a Bachelor of Nursing degree from Lincoln Memorial University in 2015 and a Doctor of Nursing Practice from the University of Tennessee Health Science Center in 2018. She has experience in caring for patients across the lifespan in both inpatient and outpatient settings. She provides psychiatric evaluation and medication management to patients 18 years and older. Her areas of focus include depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, psychotic disorders, and attention deficit disorder.
(865) 432-0119 View (865) 432-0119
Photo of Andrea Belt - Andrea Belt Mental Health Services, LLC, APRN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Andrea Belt Mental Health Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Oak Ridge, TN 37830
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, PTSD, or other mental health issues? Are you ready to make positive changes, rediscover yourself, and improve your quality of life? You are not alone! I can help you begin a new chapter in your life. Initial appointments are in person. Follow-up appointments can be in person or via telehealth.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, PTSD, or other mental health issues? Are you ready to make positive changes, rediscover yourself, and improve your quality of life? You are not alone! I can help you begin a new chapter in your life. Initial appointments are in person. Follow-up appointments can be in person or via telehealth.
(865) 217-1607 View (865) 217-1607
Photo of Arif K Mirza - Dr Arif Mirza MD | Germantown Private Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr Arif Mirza MD | Germantown Private Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Chattanooga, TN 37404  (Online Only)
ADHD All Meds -Stimulants/Non Stimulants, ADHD Testing (All Ages) Panic Attacks Anxiety Disorder Meds, Insomnia Sleep Disorders Prescriptions, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Erectile Dysfunction Autism Testing (Child Adolescent), ADHD Extended Time Help (School/College) Emotional Support Animal Assist FMLA & Disability Paperwork Help, Sick Slip Doctor Note.
Welcome! ...As an experienced Psychiatrist in private practice, inpatient and telehealth settings, I'm here to offer authentic, compassionate care. Time is precious, especially for busy students, parents, and working professionals. I look forward to collaborate to reach your goals ASAP! ... Same week Video appointments are available. Text 469-770-7750 for quick booking assist.
ADHD All Meds -Stimulants/Non Stimulants, ADHD Testing (All Ages) Panic Attacks Anxiety Disorder Meds, Insomnia Sleep Disorders Prescriptions, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Erectile Dysfunction Autism Testing (Child Adolescent), ADHD Extended Time Help (School/College) Emotional Support Animal Assist FMLA & Disability Paperwork Help, Sick Slip Doctor Note.
Welcome! ...As an experienced Psychiatrist in private practice, inpatient and telehealth settings, I'm here to offer authentic, compassionate care. Time is precious, especially for busy students, parents, and working professionals. I look forward to collaborate to reach your goals ASAP! ... Same week Video appointments are available. Text 469-770-7750 for quick booking assist.
(423) 592-5752 View (423) 592-5752

Nearby Bipolar Disorder Psychiatrists Searches for Maryville

See More Bipolar Disorder Psychiatrists
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.