Bipolar Disorder Psychiatrists in Poway, CA

Photo of Dr. Sofia Elkind, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Sofia Elkind
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Poway, CA 92064
I am a board-certified adult psychiatrist dedicated to providing thorough, personalized, and compassionate care. I treat people with various mental health concerns, including but not limited to anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, personality disorders, and ADHD. I am passionate about working with survivors of trauma, individuals with various co-occurring physical conditions which impact their mental health, as well as women throughout the perinatal period.
I am a board-certified adult psychiatrist dedicated to providing thorough, personalized, and compassionate care. I treat people with various mental health concerns, including but not limited to anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, personality disorders, and ADHD. I am passionate about working with survivors of trauma, individuals with various co-occurring physical conditions which impact their mental health, as well as women throughout the perinatal period.
(619) 494-0507 View (619) 494-0507
Marina Katz
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Poway, CA 92064
Dr Marina Katz graduated in a medical school in the Republic of Moldova. She completed United States Medical Licensing Examination requirements in 1998 and graduated from a psychiatric residency program at the University of Louisville, Kentucky, in 2003. Dr. Marina Katz has been practicing psychiatry from 2003. She has been seeing patients in various settings, including office stetting, inpatient psychiatric hospitals, emergency rooms. Her interests include telemedicine, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders. Dr Marina Katz sees patients ages 18 and older.
Dr Marina Katz graduated in a medical school in the Republic of Moldova. She completed United States Medical Licensing Examination requirements in 1998 and graduated from a psychiatric residency program at the University of Louisville, Kentucky, in 2003. Dr. Marina Katz has been practicing psychiatry from 2003. She has been seeing patients in various settings, including office stetting, inpatient psychiatric hospitals, emergency rooms. Her interests include telemedicine, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders. Dr Marina Katz sees patients ages 18 and older.
(858) 251-8204 View (858) 251-8204
Photo of Rachael Mehl, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rachael Mehl
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Poway, CA 92064
Helping individuals achieve optimal health and happiness is my greatest calling. As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I am dedicated to providing comprehensive mental health care across the lifespan. With a strong nursing foundation and specialized psychiatric training, I offer a unique blend of clinical expertise and compassionate care. My goal is to empower those struggling with mental health challenges through a holistic, patient-centered approach.
Helping individuals achieve optimal health and happiness is my greatest calling. As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I am dedicated to providing comprehensive mental health care across the lifespan. With a strong nursing foundation and specialized psychiatric training, I offer a unique blend of clinical expertise and compassionate care. My goal is to empower those struggling with mental health challenges through a holistic, patient-centered approach.
(760) 624-3182 View (760) 624-3182
Photo of M Zenilde A M De Lima, MD, Psychiatrist
M Zenilde A M De Lima
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Poway, CA 92064  (Online Only)
I am an Adult, Child, and Adolescent Psychiatrist with a background in Pediatrics. My 15-year experience as a pediatrician has helped me integrate Biology, Psychological Development, and Social Environment in my work.
I am an Adult, Child, and Adolescent Psychiatrist with a background in Pediatrics. My 15-year experience as a pediatrician has helped me integrate Biology, Psychological Development, and Social Environment in my work.
(619) 382-2364 View (619) 382-2364

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Riz Ahmad, MD , Psychiatrist
Riz Ahmad
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Escondido, CA 92025  (Online Only)
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!
(619) 648-4019 View (619) 648-4019
Photo of Deomel Soriano, PMHNP-C, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Deomel Soriano
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C, MSN
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92126
He specializes in diagnosis and treatment of mood disorders (depression, bipolar disorder), anxiety disorders, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, alcohol/drug abuse, and schizophrenia.
Deomel is a licensed and board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in San Diego, CA. He has worked as a Mental Health Associate, Licensed Vocational Nurse, Registered Nurse and now as a Nurse Practitioner. Having witnessed and experienced healthcare at different levels, Deomel is further motivated to treat individuals. He truly believes that each patient is unique and has different needs; therefore, the services they receive should be tailored to each individual. With proper treatment, people suffering from mental illness can live a normal life. ​
He specializes in diagnosis and treatment of mood disorders (depression, bipolar disorder), anxiety disorders, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, alcohol/drug abuse, and schizophrenia.
Deomel is a licensed and board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in San Diego, CA. He has worked as a Mental Health Associate, Licensed Vocational Nurse, Registered Nurse and now as a Nurse Practitioner. Having witnessed and experienced healthcare at different levels, Deomel is further motivated to treat individuals. He truly believes that each patient is unique and has different needs; therefore, the services they receive should be tailored to each individual. With proper treatment, people suffering from mental illness can live a normal life. ​
(858) 281-0652 View (858) 281-0652
Photo of Mottsin Thomas, MD, Psychiatrist
Mottsin Thomas
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Escondido, CA 92029  (Online Only)
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, and OCD.
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS-Bonmente knows 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.
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, and OCD.
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS-Bonmente knows 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.
(760) 214-9822 View (760) 214-9822
Photo of Olga Korelova, MD, Psychiatrist
Olga Korelova
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92129  (Online Only)
I provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluation with evidence based psychopharmacological treatment to adults with respect to their values and goals. I take time to really know my patients and develop a collaborative plan to improve their physical, emotional, social, and spiritual wellbeing. I specialize in treating depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, anxiety and panic disorders, post-traumatic stress disorders, stress induced adjustment disorders with attention to life style modifications to achieve the best outcome.
I provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluation with evidence based psychopharmacological treatment to adults with respect to their values and goals. I take time to really know my patients and develop a collaborative plan to improve their physical, emotional, social, and spiritual wellbeing. I specialize in treating depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, anxiety and panic disorders, post-traumatic stress disorders, stress induced adjustment disorders with attention to life style modifications to achieve the best outcome.
(858) 437-8754 View (858) 437-8754
Photo of Adam Borecky, MD, Psychiatrist
Adam Borecky
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92145
Borecky's training and experience enable him to treat a wide range of mental health issues, including (but not limited to): Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Bipolar Disorder (Types I & II), Schizophrenia, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Panic Disorder Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD).
Dr. Adam Borecky, based in Encinitas, CA, combines expertise and empathy in psychiatry. Trained at Loma Linda University, with over 16,640 hours in patient care, he specializes in diverse mental health disorders. As an out-of-network provider, he dedicates ample time to understand patient needs deeply, crafting creative solutions. Dr. Borecky's work on the 'Connection Index' and 'Psychiatry & Psychotherapy Podcast' showcases his commitment to advancing mental health. Choose him for in-depth, individualized care.
Borecky's training and experience enable him to treat a wide range of mental health issues, including (but not limited to): Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Bipolar Disorder (Types I & II), Schizophrenia, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Panic Disorder Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD).
Dr. Adam Borecky, based in Encinitas, CA, combines expertise and empathy in psychiatry. Trained at Loma Linda University, with over 16,640 hours in patient care, he specializes in diverse mental health disorders. As an out-of-network provider, he dedicates ample time to understand patient needs deeply, crafting creative solutions. Dr. Borecky's work on the 'Connection Index' and 'Psychiatry & Psychotherapy Podcast' showcases his commitment to advancing mental health. Choose him for in-depth, individualized care.
(760) 254-0171 View (760) 254-0171
Photo of Kirsten Thompson - Remedy Psychiatry San Diego, MD, PMHNP, Psychiatrist
Remedy Psychiatry San Diego
Psychiatrist, MD, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92126  (Online Only)
We treat a wide range of mental health symptoms – anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, bipolar, insomnia and more.
Are you struggling in your day to day? With Remedy, you can get unlimited online psychiatry appointments at an affordable price. We treat a wide range of mental health symptoms with a broad set of medications so you can live your best life. See one of our mental health specialists for an in-depth mental health evaluation, diagnosis and ongoing medication management care. Treating adults, teens and children from the comfort of home or comfort space over video - days, nights and weekends.
We treat a wide range of mental health symptoms – anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, bipolar, insomnia and more.
Are you struggling in your day to day? With Remedy, you can get unlimited online psychiatry appointments at an affordable price. We treat a wide range of mental health symptoms with a broad set of medications so you can live your best life. See one of our mental health specialists for an in-depth mental health evaluation, diagnosis and ongoing medication management care. Treating adults, teens and children from the comfort of home or comfort space over video - days, nights and weekends.
(310) 695-1866 View (310) 695-1866
Photo of Bruce Hubbard - Bruce Hubbard M.D., MD, Psychiatrist
Bruce Hubbard M.D.
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92131
I can't imagine an ideal client because I see a broad range of clients and I enjoy helping them all. The typical patient who comes to me needs help with depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, addiction, or another disorder and may have a family history of these symptoms or diagnoses. They are usually wanting to understand their symptoms and gain an accurate understanding or diagnosis. Medication may be appropriate for some of these patients. For patients who do not find relief from medication or who experience side effects, we offer TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) which is non-drug treatment for depression and anxiety
I can't imagine an ideal client because I see a broad range of clients and I enjoy helping them all. The typical patient who comes to me needs help with depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, addiction, or another disorder and may have a family history of these symptoms or diagnoses. They are usually wanting to understand their symptoms and gain an accurate understanding or diagnosis. Medication may be appropriate for some of these patients. For patients who do not find relief from medication or who experience side effects, we offer TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) which is non-drug treatment for depression and anxiety
(619) 485-6837 View (619) 485-6837
Photo of Sanjoy Sathpathy, MD, Psychiatrist
Sanjoy Sathpathy
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92126
My focus is on diseases impairing child and adolescent population especially Autism, ADHD, Developmental and Cognitive impairment, Gender Identity issues, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorder and Psychosis.
From an early age, I have been encouraged to be curious and inquisitive in humanity. This attracted me to the profession of psychiatry, which gave me the opportunity to have a positive impact on an individual. Empowering each patient is of my highest concern and I make every effort to instill confidence and provide support through the healing process.
My focus is on diseases impairing child and adolescent population especially Autism, ADHD, Developmental and Cognitive impairment, Gender Identity issues, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorder and Psychosis.
From an early age, I have been encouraged to be curious and inquisitive in humanity. This attracted me to the profession of psychiatry, which gave me the opportunity to have a positive impact on an individual. Empowering each patient is of my highest concern and I make every effort to instill confidence and provide support through the healing process.
(858) 264-1160 View (858) 264-1160
Photo of Evangeline Luriz, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Evangeline Luriz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Escondido, CA 92025  (Online Only)
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 a challenging 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 a challenging 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) 328-5395 View (949) 328-5395
Photo of Dr. Karine Khatchatrian, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Karine Khatchatrian
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92128
Dr. Karine Khatchatrian helps adults with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.
Dr. Karine Khatchatrian helps adults with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.
(858) 568-7546 View (858) 568-7546
Photo of Volker Nabavi, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Volker Nabavi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Escondido, CA 92025  (Online Only)
My name is Volker Nabavi, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, sleep disorders, substance use, ADHD, OCD, and Bipolar disorders. I have received training in both medical and nursing fields which enables me to apply both medical and nursing theories to manage my client’s mental health holistically and meet their needs. During sessions, I use Cognitive Behavioral therapy (CBT) and motivational interviewing for a supportive, client-centered, holistic approach.
My name is Volker Nabavi, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, sleep disorders, substance use, ADHD, OCD, and Bipolar disorders. I have received training in both medical and nursing fields which enables me to apply both medical and nursing theories to manage my client’s mental health holistically and meet their needs. During sessions, I use Cognitive Behavioral therapy (CBT) and motivational interviewing for a supportive, client-centered, holistic approach.
(562) 564-6081 View (562) 564-6081
Photo of Li Liang, MD, Psychiatrist
Li Liang
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92126
I specialize in diagnosing and treating mental health issues such as mood disorders (depression, bipolar disorder), anxiety disorders (generalized anxiety, separation anxiety, panic, obsessive compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder), eating disorders, alcohol/drug abuse, dementia and schizophrenia.
I am a licensed physician and a board certified psychiatrist in San Diego specializing in adult psychiatry. I have a wide range of clinical interests and experiences. I recognize that everyone's situation is unique and make every effort to understand all aspects of one's life in order to bring the optimum health and best outcome for my patients. I firmly believe that a healthy mind leads to a healthy life.
I specialize in diagnosing and treating mental health issues such as mood disorders (depression, bipolar disorder), anxiety disorders (generalized anxiety, separation anxiety, panic, obsessive compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder), eating disorders, alcohol/drug abuse, dementia and schizophrenia.
I am a licensed physician and a board certified psychiatrist in San Diego specializing in adult psychiatry. I have a wide range of clinical interests and experiences. I recognize that everyone's situation is unique and make every effort to understand all aspects of one's life in order to bring the optimum health and best outcome for my patients. I firmly believe that a healthy mind leads to a healthy life.
(858) 397-5171 View (858) 397-5171
Photo of Heather Dougherty, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Heather Dougherty
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92128
Heather helps with anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and postpartum conditions. She has a holistic, evidence-based, and trauma-informed approach.
Heather helps with anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and postpartum conditions. She has a holistic, evidence-based, and trauma-informed approach.
(858) 568-7546 View (858) 568-7546
Photo of Dr. Sanjeev Rally, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Sanjeev Rally
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92129
Dr. Rally is particularly passionate about treating mood disorders like bipolar disorder and depression, understanding the profound impact these conditions can have on daily life and overall wellbeing. He is committed to helping his patients regain control, find stability, and improve their quality of life through a combination of medication management and supportive therapy. Additionally, Dr. Rally works closely with individuals who are recovering from alcohol and drug use, offering them the tools and support needed to achieve longterm recovery.
Dr. Rally is particularly passionate about treating mood disorders like bipolar disorder and depression, understanding the profound impact these conditions can have on daily life and overall wellbeing. He is committed to helping his patients regain control, find stability, and improve their quality of life through a combination of medication management and supportive therapy. Additionally, Dr. Rally works closely with individuals who are recovering from alcohol and drug use, offering them the tools and support needed to achieve longterm recovery.
(855) 419-3254 View (855) 419-3254
Photo of Carla Hammond - Brainpower Wellness Institute, Psychiatrist
Brainpower Wellness Institute
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rancho Santa Fe, CA 92067
Brainpower Wellness Institute is a leading center for children and adolescent psychiatry. We provide comprehensive and compassionate care to children and adolescents ages 5 through 18. Our team of experienced and board-certified psychiatrists and psychiatric nurse practitioners specializes in diagnosing and treating a wide range of mental health disorders, including anxiety disorders, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism spectrum disorder (ASD), bipolar disorder, depression, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and tic disorders.
Brainpower Wellness Institute is a leading center for children and adolescent psychiatry. We provide comprehensive and compassionate care to children and adolescents ages 5 through 18. Our team of experienced and board-certified psychiatrists and psychiatric nurse practitioners specializes in diagnosing and treating a wide range of mental health disorders, including anxiety disorders, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism spectrum disorder (ASD), bipolar disorder, depression, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and tic disorders.
(858) 293-1573 View (858) 293-1573
Photo of Isaac Kuffour, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Isaac Kuffour
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92126  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating complex mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, PTSD, and bipolar disorder.
My ideal client faces challenges like depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia, often compounded by trauma or substance abuse. They feel misunderstood and struggle with daily life. They need compassionate, trauma-informed care, personalized treatment, and support with coping skills and medication management. Their goals include regaining emotional stability, improving relationships, and rebuilding self-worth. They want to feel heard and empowered, seeking lasting recovery and a fulfilling, balanced life.
I specialize in treating complex mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, PTSD, and bipolar disorder.
My ideal client faces challenges like depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia, often compounded by trauma or substance abuse. They feel misunderstood and struggle with daily life. They need compassionate, trauma-informed care, personalized treatment, and support with coping skills and medication management. Their goals include regaining emotional stability, improving relationships, and rebuilding self-worth. They want to feel heard and empowered, seeking lasting recovery and a fulfilling, balanced life.
(323) 372-9796 View (323) 372-9796
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.