Bipolar Disorder Psychiatrists in Mission Viejo, CA

Photo of Riz Ahmad, MD , Psychiatrist
Riz Ahmad
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Mission Viejo, CA 92691
Exclusively focused on mental health issues, Bonmente treats a myriad of psychiatric conditions including anxiety, depression, ADHD, sleep disorders, postpartum depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, panic attacks, OCD, and gender dysphoria.
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now welcoming new patients!
Exclusively focused on mental health issues, Bonmente treats a myriad of psychiatric conditions including anxiety, depression, ADHD, sleep disorders, postpartum depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, panic attacks, OCD, and gender dysphoria.
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now welcoming new patients!
(949) 776-4752 View (949) 776-4752
Photo of Georgiana Anugom - Georgiana Anugom, PMHNP | Mindful Health Solutions, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Georgiana Anugom, PMHNP | Mindful Health Solutions
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Mission Viejo, CA 92691  (Online Only)
My ideal client is someone dealing with mood disorders such as major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, PTSD, and/or ADHD. They are looking for more than just a quick fix and want to work on finding lasting relief. They want to regain control over their emotions, thoughts, and actions to function better in their daily life—whether that's in their career, social relationships, or personal achievements.
My ideal client is someone dealing with mood disorders such as major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, PTSD, and/or ADHD. They are looking for more than just a quick fix and want to work on finding lasting relief. They want to regain control over their emotions, thoughts, and actions to function better in their daily life—whether that's in their career, social relationships, or personal achievements.
(949) 694-3666 View (949) 694-3666
Photo of Michelle Zamorano, MD, Psychiatrist
Michelle Zamorano
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Mission Viejo, CA 92691
I collaboratively work with patients to treat anxiety, mood disorders, bipolar disorder, and ADHD.
I enjoy working with clients and collaborating to set goals for their mental health. Then help them work towards achieving those goals. I came to Mindful Health Solutions because they offer interventional treatments such as Esketamine and TMS. I love being able to help patients navigate alternative treatment options that can provide some relief when other treatments have failed.
I collaboratively work with patients to treat anxiety, mood disorders, bipolar disorder, and ADHD.
I enjoy working with clients and collaborating to set goals for their mental health. Then help them work towards achieving those goals. I came to Mindful Health Solutions because they offer interventional treatments such as Esketamine and TMS. I love being able to help patients navigate alternative treatment options that can provide some relief when other treatments have failed.
(949) 264-5521 View (949) 264-5521
Photo of Hadi Estakhri, MD, Psychiatrist
Hadi Estakhri
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Mission Viejo, CA 92691
E was trained at several well-regarded institutions including Mclean Hospital and Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston where he received specialized education in psychopharmacology for depression, ADHD, and bipolar disorder, as well as transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) for treatment-resistant depression.
Hadi Estakhri, MD — or Dr. E as his patients know him — is a double board-certified, Harvard-trained psychiatrist practicing at Allied Psychiatry and Mental Health in Newport Beach, California. He offers customized, patient-focused treatments to address the unique needs and circumstances of each patient. With more than two decades of professional experience, he has vast proficiency in the mental health field. His expertise is in treating a wide range of psychiatric and addictive disorders in both adult and adolescents.
E was trained at several well-regarded institutions including Mclean Hospital and Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston where he received specialized education in psychopharmacology for depression, ADHD, and bipolar disorder, as well as transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) for treatment-resistant depression.
Hadi Estakhri, MD — or Dr. E as his patients know him — is a double board-certified, Harvard-trained psychiatrist practicing at Allied Psychiatry and Mental Health in Newport Beach, California. He offers customized, patient-focused treatments to address the unique needs and circumstances of each patient. With more than two decades of professional experience, he has vast proficiency in the mental health field. His expertise is in treating a wide range of psychiatric and addictive disorders in both adult and adolescents.
(949) 401-7487 View (949) 401-7487
Christine E
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mission Viejo, CA 92691  (Online Only)
I provide telehealth services for mental health issues such as anxiety, OCD, depression, bipolar, mood disorders, psychosis, ADHD, and other conditions.
Hello! As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I provide validation and support in your journey towards better mental well-being. My approach is warm, holistic, patient-centered, and evidence-based. My experience has not only honed my knowledge and understanding of mental health conditions, but also reinforces my drive and deep commitment to provide quality mental health care.
I provide telehealth services for mental health issues such as anxiety, OCD, depression, bipolar, mood disorders, psychosis, ADHD, and other conditions.
Hello! As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I provide validation and support in your journey towards better mental well-being. My approach is warm, holistic, patient-centered, and evidence-based. My experience has not only honed my knowledge and understanding of mental health conditions, but also reinforces my drive and deep commitment to provide quality mental health care.
Photo of Samir Hamed, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Samir Hamed
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Mission Viejo, CA 92691
Exclusively focused on mental health issues, Allied Healers treats a myriad of psychiatric conditions including anxiety, depression, ADHD, sleep disorders, postpartum depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, panic attacks, OCD, and gender dysphoria.
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Allied Healers, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be.
Exclusively focused on mental health issues, Allied Healers treats a myriad of psychiatric conditions including anxiety, depression, ADHD, sleep disorders, postpartum depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, panic attacks, OCD, and gender dysphoria.
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Allied Healers, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be.
(949) 919-5847 View (949) 919-5847
Photo of Summer Brown, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Summer Brown
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mission Viejo, CA 92691
In my practice, I embrace the full spectrum of adult life, from my youngest client at 18 to my oldest at 103. This wide range reflects my commitment to providing dedicated mental health care to all adults, whether you're facing conditions like depression, anxiety, bipolar, ADHD, or seeking overall mental wellness. My approach is centered on understanding and addressing your unique needs with personalized medication management and supportive therapy. Committed to navigating life’s challenges with you, I offer same-day appointments, ensuring a treatment plan that respects and responds to the diverse experiences of all ages.
In my practice, I embrace the full spectrum of adult life, from my youngest client at 18 to my oldest at 103. This wide range reflects my commitment to providing dedicated mental health care to all adults, whether you're facing conditions like depression, anxiety, bipolar, ADHD, or seeking overall mental wellness. My approach is centered on understanding and addressing your unique needs with personalized medication management and supportive therapy. Committed to navigating life’s challenges with you, I offer same-day appointments, ensuring a treatment plan that respects and responds to the diverse experiences of all ages.
(949) 990-5650 View (949) 990-5650
Photo of Seamus Lucien Connolly - Seamus Connolly DO Inc, DO, Psychiatrist
Seamus Connolly DO Inc
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Mission Viejo, CA 92691
Areas of expertise Adult ADHD, depression, anxiety, psychosis, bipolar, geriatric mental illness, mental illness comorbid with HIV/AIDS, LGBT issues, surgical evaluations Ages 18+.
Note: due to resent change in pharmacy practices, no new ADHD patients unless in person in Indio CA and using nearby pharmacy. Dr Connolly grew up in Connecticut and completed undergrad at the University of Connecticut where he graduated Summa Cum Laude with a Bachelors of Science in Psychology and Cognitive Science. Dr Connolly then moved to California for medical school at Touro University California College of Osteopathic Medicine. Dr Connolly received his medical education and doctorate from there before heading to Southern California for residency training.
Areas of expertise Adult ADHD, depression, anxiety, psychosis, bipolar, geriatric mental illness, mental illness comorbid with HIV/AIDS, LGBT issues, surgical evaluations Ages 18+.
Note: due to resent change in pharmacy practices, no new ADHD patients unless in person in Indio CA and using nearby pharmacy. Dr Connolly grew up in Connecticut and completed undergrad at the University of Connecticut where he graduated Summa Cum Laude with a Bachelors of Science in Psychology and Cognitive Science. Dr Connolly then moved to California for medical school at Touro University California College of Osteopathic Medicine. Dr Connolly received his medical education and doctorate from there before heading to Southern California for residency training.
(760) 437-1413 View (760) 437-1413
Photo of Ana Jimenez, PA-C , Physician Assistant
Ana Jimenez
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Mission Viejo, CA 92690
Exclusively focused on mental health issues, Bonmente treats a myriad of psychiatric conditions, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, sleep disorders, postpartum depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, panic attacks, OCD, and gender dysphoria.
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now welcoming new patients!
Exclusively focused on mental health issues, Bonmente treats a myriad of psychiatric conditions, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, sleep disorders, postpartum depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, panic attacks, OCD, and gender dysphoria.
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now welcoming new patients!
(657) 837-6404 View (657) 837-6404
Photo of Diane Ackroyd - Diane Ackroyd, PMHNP | Mindful Health Solutions, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Diane Ackroyd, PMHNP | Mindful Health Solutions
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Mission Viejo, CA 92675
I am deeply passionate about mental health, particularly when it comes to treating bipolar disorders, trauma, and psychotic conditions. When it comes to working with patients, "curiosity" is my guiding principle. I partner with individuals to dig deep into what's troubling them and work together to set life-affirming treatment goals. Over time, I've embraced several care models, including the harm reduction model, which aims to lessen the negative impact of behaviors like substance abuse or self-harm, even if quitting altogether isn’t on the table yet.
I am deeply passionate about mental health, particularly when it comes to treating bipolar disorders, trauma, and psychotic conditions. When it comes to working with patients, "curiosity" is my guiding principle. I partner with individuals to dig deep into what's troubling them and work together to set life-affirming treatment goals. Over time, I've embraced several care models, including the harm reduction model, which aims to lessen the negative impact of behaviors like substance abuse or self-harm, even if quitting altogether isn’t on the table yet.
(949) 401-7457 View (949) 401-7457
Photo of Taqialdeen Zamil, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Taqialdeen Zamil
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Mission Viejo, CA 92691
Welcome to my practice. With over a decade of diverse clinical experience, I've had the privilege of guiding clients through the intricate landscape of mental health. From adolescents struggling with identity issues, adults combating anxiety, to those deciphering the layers of substance use, depressive or bipolar disorders, PTSD, or OCD, I've witnessed the resilience of the human spirit. I'm passionate about providing evidence-based, compassionate care to empower individuals to reclaim control and joy in their lives. If you seek a deeper understanding and the tools to flourish, I'm here to support you on this transformative journey.
Welcome to my practice. With over a decade of diverse clinical experience, I've had the privilege of guiding clients through the intricate landscape of mental health. From adolescents struggling with identity issues, adults combating anxiety, to those deciphering the layers of substance use, depressive or bipolar disorders, PTSD, or OCD, I've witnessed the resilience of the human spirit. I'm passionate about providing evidence-based, compassionate care to empower individuals to reclaim control and joy in their lives. If you seek a deeper understanding and the tools to flourish, I'm here to support you on this transformative journey.
(657) 297-5632 View (657) 297-5632
Photo of Piran Mehta, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Piran Mehta
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Mission Viejo, CA 92694
Hey there, I'm Piran. Do you feel pulled in a million directions, unable to fit it all in? Have you lost motivation in things you used to enjoy? Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, work and health? Is it hard to be kind to yourself? I help high performers manage anxiety, depression and mood. Together, we can identify what's not working and get you back to balance. You deserve a safe space to heal and grow. In our sessions together, I'll meet you with compassion and evidence-based techniques so you can overcome the hang-ups and habits holding you back. Let's work together!
Hey there, I'm Piran. Do you feel pulled in a million directions, unable to fit it all in? Have you lost motivation in things you used to enjoy? Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, work and health? Is it hard to be kind to yourself? I help high performers manage anxiety, depression and mood. Together, we can identify what's not working and get you back to balance. You deserve a safe space to heal and grow. In our sessions together, I'll meet you with compassion and evidence-based techniques so you can overcome the hang-ups and habits holding you back. Let's work together!
(408) 715-1736 View (408) 715-1736
Photo of Emily Lippincott, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Emily Lippincott
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Mission Viejo, CA 92691  (Online Only)
In network with most insurance carriers. Emily Lippincott is a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and specializes in treatment of mood and anxiety disorders in adults as well as children and adolescents. She works in collaboration with a team of psychiatrists and psychologists in a large group practice that accepts most insurance plans. Championing a whole person approach to health and well-being, she employs a combination of medical and holistic practices into her treatment plans, and believes in an interdisciplinary approach in treating psychological conditions.
In network with most insurance carriers. Emily Lippincott is a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and specializes in treatment of mood and anxiety disorders in adults as well as children and adolescents. She works in collaboration with a team of psychiatrists and psychologists in a large group practice that accepts most insurance plans. Championing a whole person approach to health and well-being, she employs a combination of medical and holistic practices into her treatment plans, and believes in an interdisciplinary approach in treating psychological conditions.
(949) 303-7718 View (949) 303-7718
Photo of Jerry F Benzl, MD, MA, Psychiatrist
Jerry F Benzl
Psychiatrist, MD, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mission Viejo, CA 92691
If you are an existing patient at Advanced TMS, please call 949-768-2988 to contact the office. I now also see child, adolescents, and adults at the Behavioral Assessment Center of South County (BACSOC) in Mission Viejo, California. I specialize in ADHD treatments and medication management for most psychiatric problems.
If you are an existing patient at Advanced TMS, please call 949-768-2988 to contact the office. I now also see child, adolescents, and adults at the Behavioral Assessment Center of South County (BACSOC) in Mission Viejo, California. I specialize in ADHD treatments and medication management for most psychiatric problems.
(949) 694-3868 View (949) 694-3868
Photo of Philip Creps, DO, Psychiatrist
Philip Creps
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Mission Viejo, CA 92691
I'm a board-certified psychiatrist with a broad focus. My working style with patients is a therapeutic alliance. I thoroughly enjoy listening to my patients, hearing their stories, how their problems developed, and things that have made it better or worse in the past. I treat all patients as individuals and coach them to work from the basis of their strengths.
I'm a board-certified psychiatrist with a broad focus. My working style with patients is a therapeutic alliance. I thoroughly enjoy listening to my patients, hearing their stories, how their problems developed, and things that have made it better or worse in the past. I treat all patients as individuals and coach them to work from the basis of their strengths.
(949) 749-5500 View (949) 749-5500
Photo of Alex Sahba - Psychiatric Evaluations - Dr. Alex Sahba, MD, Psychiatrist
Psychiatric Evaluations - Dr. Alex Sahba
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Mission Viejo, CA 92691
I'm Dr. Alex Sahba, board certified in general psychiatry/forensic psychiatry and trained at UCLA. As a recognized leader in the fields of psychiatry and qualified medical evaluations (QMEs), I am called upon to provide excellent service in various settings, including medical, legal, and academics. I conduct various types of evaluations, including: Legal/Forensics, Risk Assessment (Violence/Sexual), Drug/Alcohol Evals, Cognitive Evals, Competency Evals, Diagnostic Clarification, Fitness For Duty Evals.,​ Pre-employment Evals., Immigration-related Evals., and Workers’ Comp. (QME/AME).
I'm Dr. Alex Sahba, board certified in general psychiatry/forensic psychiatry and trained at UCLA. As a recognized leader in the fields of psychiatry and qualified medical evaluations (QMEs), I am called upon to provide excellent service in various settings, including medical, legal, and academics. I conduct various types of evaluations, including: Legal/Forensics, Risk Assessment (Violence/Sexual), Drug/Alcohol Evals, Cognitive Evals, Competency Evals, Diagnostic Clarification, Fitness For Duty Evals.,​ Pre-employment Evals., Immigration-related Evals., and Workers’ Comp. (QME/AME).
(949) 990-3529 View (949) 990-3529
Photo of Jaclyn Nobakht, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jaclyn Nobakht
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Mission Viejo, CA 92691
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 6 years of mental health experience working in partial hospitalization & intensive outpatient programming for adults, adolescents, and maternal patients, also working in the hospital setting providing mental health consultation & crisis intervention. I entered into psychiatry with the desire to provide effective treatment, education, & options for mental health & healing that include nutrition, therapy, and medication intervention. Nutritional psychiatry is a passion of mine, as I firmly believe that our overall health and well-being is a key element to mental wellness.
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 6 years of mental health experience working in partial hospitalization & intensive outpatient programming for adults, adolescents, and maternal patients, also working in the hospital setting providing mental health consultation & crisis intervention. I entered into psychiatry with the desire to provide effective treatment, education, & options for mental health & healing that include nutrition, therapy, and medication intervention. Nutritional psychiatry is a passion of mine, as I firmly believe that our overall health and well-being is a key element to mental wellness.
(949) 228-9755 View (949) 228-9755
Photo of Grace Kwon, DO, Psychiatrist
Grace Kwon
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Mission Viejo, CA 92691
Dr. Kwon is a psychiatrist who holds two medical board certifications in general Adult Psychiatry and Addiction Psychiatry. She completed general adult psychiatry residency at Harbor UCLA, and continued a sub-specialty fellowship in Addiction Psychiatry at the Yale School of Medicine. Dr. Kwon understands the importance of your autonomy and ability to make informed decisions about your health. She conceptualizes diagnosis and treatment from a holistic point of view. She has training in many different treatment modalities including medication management, acupuncture, cognitive behavioral therapy, and motivational interviewing.
Dr. Kwon is a psychiatrist who holds two medical board certifications in general Adult Psychiatry and Addiction Psychiatry. She completed general adult psychiatry residency at Harbor UCLA, and continued a sub-specialty fellowship in Addiction Psychiatry at the Yale School of Medicine. Dr. Kwon understands the importance of your autonomy and ability to make informed decisions about your health. She conceptualizes diagnosis and treatment from a holistic point of view. She has training in many different treatment modalities including medication management, acupuncture, cognitive behavioral therapy, and motivational interviewing.
(714) 463-1241 View (714) 463-1241
Photo of Brittany Lute, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brittany Lute
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Mission Viejo, CA 92691  (Online Only)
Brittany Lute is a warm and dedicated psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who is passionate about providing care with a gentle touch of kindness and compassion. With experience in various settings such as outpatient clinics, community healthcare centers, and other facilities, Brittany has gained diverse knowledge and expertise in her field. She takes great joy in connecting with people from all walks of life and is especially enthusiastic about working with individuals from various cultural backgrounds.
Brittany Lute is a warm and dedicated psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who is passionate about providing care with a gentle touch of kindness and compassion. With experience in various settings such as outpatient clinics, community healthcare centers, and other facilities, Brittany has gained diverse knowledge and expertise in her field. She takes great joy in connecting with people from all walks of life and is especially enthusiastic about working with individuals from various cultural backgrounds.
(949) 356-5114 View (949) 356-5114
Photo of Jill Gaskill, PHMNP-B, MSN, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jill Gaskill
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PHMNP-B, MSN, RN
Verified Verified
Mission Viejo, CA 92691  (Online Only)
Are you struggling to balance your physical and mental health? Are things becoming unmanageable? Is your time limited? Then welcome to WellPsyche! WellPsyche Medical Group provides experts in the field of Adult and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry. Our practice offers the latest in psychiatry including Telemedicine! Now you can visit with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of your home or work. Our providers take a Conservative and Effective approach to medication management and can help you balance your life.
Are you struggling to balance your physical and mental health? Are things becoming unmanageable? Is your time limited? Then welcome to WellPsyche! WellPsyche Medical Group provides experts in the field of Adult and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry. Our practice offers the latest in psychiatry including Telemedicine! Now you can visit with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of your home or work. Our providers take a Conservative and Effective approach to medication management and can help you balance your life.
(858) 956-7268 View (858) 956-7268
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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.