Bipolar Disorder Psychiatrists in Laurel, MD
Clearpoint Mental Health Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Laurel, MD 20707
Accepting NEW clients BOTH in-person and Telehealth! Do you suffer from chronic low mood? Worry excessively about everything? Have difficulty concentrating and accomplishing everyday tasks? Experience flashbacks from trauma? Suffer from panic attacks? You are not alone as 1 in 5 adults in America has some mental illness. I work with individuals and families dealing with depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, and Bipolar disorder. Book your appointment today.
Accepting NEW clients BOTH in-person and Telehealth! Do you suffer from chronic low mood? Worry excessively about everything? Have difficulty concentrating and accomplishing everyday tasks? Experience flashbacks from trauma? Suffer from panic attacks? You are not alone as 1 in 5 adults in America has some mental illness. I work with individuals and families dealing with depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, and Bipolar disorder. Book your appointment today.
SUUNA Chi Health Care Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Florenc, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Laurel, MD 20707
This provider has twenty plus years as a Psychiatric registered nurse and almost ten years as a Psychiatric Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner in Maryland and Washington DC. This provider sees patients with ADHD, anxiety spectrum disorders, depression, bipolar disorders, eating disorder, substance abuse disorder, pervasive developmental disorder, schizoaffective disorder, schizophrenia, Alzheimer's. We offer medication management, brief psychotherapy and psychoeducation.
This provider has twenty plus years as a Psychiatric registered nurse and almost ten years as a Psychiatric Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner in Maryland and Washington DC. This provider sees patients with ADHD, anxiety spectrum disorders, depression, bipolar disorders, eating disorder, substance abuse disorder, pervasive developmental disorder, schizoaffective disorder, schizophrenia, Alzheimer's. We offer medication management, brief psychotherapy and psychoeducation.
Milestone Wellness LLC (behavioral Healthcare)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Laurel, MD 20707
Milestone Wellness behavioral healthcare provides Telepsychiatry and outpatient psychiatric diagnostic evaluation and medication management for patients ages 8+. We also provide second opinions on diagnoses as well as treatment modalities. We offer psychopharmacology and psychotherapy services for a broad spectrum of psychiatric problems. Extensive experience in treating these disorders: depression, bipolar, anxiety, eating, panic, OCD, personality, Schizophrenias, PTSD, and other problems related to life-changing situations. We do not believe in pushing medications but in their appropriate place in a treatment plan.
Milestone Wellness behavioral healthcare provides Telepsychiatry and outpatient psychiatric diagnostic evaluation and medication management for patients ages 8+. We also provide second opinions on diagnoses as well as treatment modalities. We offer psychopharmacology and psychotherapy services for a broad spectrum of psychiatric problems. Extensive experience in treating these disorders: depression, bipolar, anxiety, eating, panic, OCD, personality, Schizophrenias, PTSD, and other problems related to life-changing situations. We do not believe in pushing medications but in their appropriate place in a treatment plan.
Integral Psychiatry and Wellness LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Laurel, MD 20708 (Online Only)
Florence has extensive experience working with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar, schizophrenia, PTSD, personality disorder, sleep disorder, substance, and addiction.
Florence Amaikwu PMHNP-BC is a board-certified Psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with more than 17 years of clinical experience. She is licensed in the state of Maryland. Florence is a graduate from Coppin State University with BSN and Masters’s in psychiatric Mental health from Walden University. She has worked as a clinician both in outpatients and telehealth services. She cares for children, adults, and the geriatric population. Florence is passionate about reducing the stigma surrounding mental illness.
Florence has extensive experience working with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar, schizophrenia, PTSD, personality disorder, sleep disorder, substance, and addiction.
Florence Amaikwu PMHNP-BC is a board-certified Psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with more than 17 years of clinical experience. She is licensed in the state of Maryland. Florence is a graduate from Coppin State University with BSN and Masters’s in psychiatric Mental health from Walden University. She has worked as a clinician both in outpatients and telehealth services. She cares for children, adults, and the geriatric population. Florence is passionate about reducing the stigma surrounding mental illness.
Dr. Kumli Anye
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHP, AGNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Laurel, MD 20708 (Online Only)
We can assist you in managing your anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and PTSD.
At Conquest health, our goal is using a holistic approach to improve the mental well-being of our patients. You are making an important step by seeking out help, we never want you to feel like you are alone because of mental health issues. We will be with you every step of the way, providing medication management, coaching , therapy if needed tailored specifically to your needs so you can have a better quality of life. We provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, medication management, medical marijuana certification.
We can assist you in managing your anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and PTSD.
At Conquest health, our goal is using a holistic approach to improve the mental well-being of our patients. You are making an important step by seeking out help, we never want you to feel like you are alone because of mental health issues. We will be with you every step of the way, providing medication management, coaching , therapy if needed tailored specifically to your needs so you can have a better quality of life. We provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, medication management, medical marijuana certification.
BAC Health Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Laurel, MD 20707 (Online Only)
I specialize in Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression and a wide variety of mental health conditions/ disorders. My ideal clients are individuals and couples about the age of 12 with a history of anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder who usually need assistance with medication management. My goal is to ensure that there is positive progress in their Mental and Behavioral health in order to better manage their symptoms and achieve mental stability.
I specialize in Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression and a wide variety of mental health conditions/ disorders. My ideal clients are individuals and couples about the age of 12 with a history of anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder who usually need assistance with medication management. My goal is to ensure that there is positive progress in their Mental and Behavioral health in order to better manage their symptoms and achieve mental stability.
My services utilize combination of psychopharmacology and psychotherapy for multiple psychiatric pathologies such as Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Insomnia, Psychosis, PTSD, and Bipolar.
Nkemdilim Ohaka, FNP-BC, PMHNP-BC is a Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner and a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Nkemdilim obtained her Bachelors of Science in Nursing at Kaplan University currently known as Perdue University. Her desire for knowledge and expertise in nursing made her return to school and obtained her master’s degree in nursing as a Family Nurse Practitioner and a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner.
My services utilize combination of psychopharmacology and psychotherapy for multiple psychiatric pathologies such as Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Insomnia, Psychosis, PTSD, and Bipolar.
Nkemdilim Ohaka, FNP-BC, PMHNP-BC is a Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner and a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Nkemdilim obtained her Bachelors of Science in Nursing at Kaplan University currently known as Perdue University. Her desire for knowledge and expertise in nursing made her return to school and obtained her master’s degree in nursing as a Family Nurse Practitioner and a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner.
Dr. Blanche Kattie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Laurel, MD 20707
Accepting new patient. Welcome. I'm Blanche Kattie, a compassionate psychiatrist committed to guiding individuals on their path to mental well-being and fulfillment. With specialized expertise in depression, anxiety, PTSD, addiction, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and ADHD, I offer a comprehensive range of services including medication management and psychotherapy.By integrating medication management with psychotherapy, I aim to not only alleviate symptoms but also address the underlying factors contributing to your mental health concerns.
Accepting new patient. Welcome. I'm Blanche Kattie, a compassionate psychiatrist committed to guiding individuals on their path to mental well-being and fulfillment. With specialized expertise in depression, anxiety, PTSD, addiction, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and ADHD, I offer a comprehensive range of services including medication management and psychotherapy.By integrating medication management with psychotherapy, I aim to not only alleviate symptoms but also address the underlying factors contributing to your mental health concerns.
Cona Healthcare Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-B, MSc, MSN
Not Verified Not Verified
Laurel, MD 20707
We specialize in treating and managing common mental health issues such as psychotic disorders, personality disorders, depression, anxiety, PTSD, panic-attacks, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and other mental health challenges across the lifespan.
Yes, you are not alone as everyone experiences loss, unforeseen changes, relationship challenges, difficulty with sleep, and anxiety provoking stress that may interfere with work, self, and/or relationships. Help is available at Cona healthcare. Welcome to Cona Healthcare Health Services, where your journey to mental health and physical wellness begins. At Cona Healthcare Services, we provide virtual, physical, and mental health services at your comfort. We are always at your service to help you function at your optimum with a sound mind. Dr. Endy Okoroafor is Doctoral prepared PMHNP at University of South Alabama & Board-Certified.
We specialize in treating and managing common mental health issues such as psychotic disorders, personality disorders, depression, anxiety, PTSD, panic-attacks, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and other mental health challenges across the lifespan.
Yes, you are not alone as everyone experiences loss, unforeseen changes, relationship challenges, difficulty with sleep, and anxiety provoking stress that may interfere with work, self, and/or relationships. Help is available at Cona healthcare. Welcome to Cona Healthcare Health Services, where your journey to mental health and physical wellness begins. At Cona Healthcare Services, we provide virtual, physical, and mental health services at your comfort. We are always at your service to help you function at your optimum with a sound mind. Dr. Endy Okoroafor is Doctoral prepared PMHNP at University of South Alabama & Board-Certified.
Gladstreams Mental Health & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN,, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Laurel, MD 20725
We specialize in treating Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, ADHD and other conditions.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by loneliness, sadness, shame or guilt? Do you find yourself battling anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem? Are you worried about your child or adolescent? Gladstreams Mental Health & Wellness provides child and adult psychiatric services. Our providers believe in collaborative and person-centered care as each individual is unique, and we strive to provide personalized treatment plans tailored to meet each individual's specific needs and goals.
We specialize in treating Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, ADHD and other conditions.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by loneliness, sadness, shame or guilt? Do you find yourself battling anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem? Are you worried about your child or adolescent? Gladstreams Mental Health & Wellness provides child and adult psychiatric services. Our providers believe in collaborative and person-centered care as each individual is unique, and we strive to provide personalized treatment plans tailored to meet each individual's specific needs and goals.
Maura Constance
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MPH, PMHNP, FNP, BC
Verified Verified
Laurel, MD 20707
I am a warm, compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner devoted to helping people overcome difficulties and thrive. I employ a humanistic approach that looks at the whole person to understand how elements in the past and factors in the present environment can contribute to your current challenges. I listen deeply and work with you to find the right mix of evidence-based therapies and medications to address your particular needs. I have a special interest in depression, anxiety, personality disorders, addiction issues, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.
I am a warm, compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner devoted to helping people overcome difficulties and thrive. I employ a humanistic approach that looks at the whole person to understand how elements in the past and factors in the present environment can contribute to your current challenges. I listen deeply and work with you to find the right mix of evidence-based therapies and medications to address your particular needs. I have a special interest in depression, anxiety, personality disorders, addiction issues, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.
Essene Behavioral Healthcare 2403347147
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Laurel, MD 20708
My professional services and specialization encompass Childhood/Adolescent and Adult Diagnosis and Treatment, including Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, OCD, PTSD, Suicide Prevention, and schizoaffective disorder.
As a Doctor in Nursing Practice, I have been in healthcare for over ten years, which has prepared me to manage my patients with evidence-based treatment modalities. I bring compassion and commitment to my practice of caring for the holistic needs of my patients, which entails a comprehensive assessment and evaluation of the patient’s psychological, emotional, and physical well-being. Also, create a plan of care that will optimize a favorable outcome in a realistic goal-oriented length of time with the patient’s buy-in.
My professional services and specialization encompass Childhood/Adolescent and Adult Diagnosis and Treatment, including Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, OCD, PTSD, Suicide Prevention, and schizoaffective disorder.
As a Doctor in Nursing Practice, I have been in healthcare for over ten years, which has prepared me to manage my patients with evidence-based treatment modalities. I bring compassion and commitment to my practice of caring for the holistic needs of my patients, which entails a comprehensive assessment and evaluation of the patient’s psychological, emotional, and physical well-being. Also, create a plan of care that will optimize a favorable outcome in a realistic goal-oriented length of time with the patient’s buy-in.
Kairos Embrace Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Laurel, MD 20707
Do you sense that your voice isn't being fully heard, appointments are hurried, or you're feeling anxious about getting started? Do you find it hard to lead a high-quality life because of conditions like Depression, Anxiety, OCD, Bipolar disorder, PTSD, ADHD, and various other mental health disorders? Are you in search of a serene and welcoming space (both in-person & online) where your individual needs are prioritized, rather than adhering to a one-size-fits-all approach? A place where your thoughts are not merely acknowledged but genuinely heard?
Do you sense that your voice isn't being fully heard, appointments are hurried, or you're feeling anxious about getting started? Do you find it hard to lead a high-quality life because of conditions like Depression, Anxiety, OCD, Bipolar disorder, PTSD, ADHD, and various other mental health disorders? Are you in search of a serene and welcoming space (both in-person & online) where your individual needs are prioritized, rather than adhering to a one-size-fits-all approach? A place where your thoughts are not merely acknowledged but genuinely heard?
Chidera Health and Mental Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Laurel, MD 20707 (Online Only)
This includes, but is not limited to: Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, Schizoaffective Disorder, Psychosis, etc.
Doctor Clementina Nwandu is a Family Nurse Practitioner, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and a Doctor in Nursing Practice. She is Board certified, and her focus is on Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing. She has over 27 years of experience in the healthcare industry as a nurse, and 23 of those in the mental health field. She is versed in a wide range of mental health conditions. She earned her Associate degree in nursing, and her Bachelor of Science in Nursing, from Marymount University, her MSN degree /FNP from Bowie State University, and subsequently, her PMHNP certification and DNP from Shenandoah University.
This includes, but is not limited to: Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, Schizoaffective Disorder, Psychosis, etc.
Doctor Clementina Nwandu is a Family Nurse Practitioner, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and a Doctor in Nursing Practice. She is Board certified, and her focus is on Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing. She has over 27 years of experience in the healthcare industry as a nurse, and 23 of those in the mental health field. She is versed in a wide range of mental health conditions. She earned her Associate degree in nursing, and her Bachelor of Science in Nursing, from Marymount University, her MSN degree /FNP from Bowie State University, and subsequently, her PMHNP certification and DNP from Shenandoah University.
Carlson Nkemnkeng
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP- , BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Laurel, MD 20708
My name is Carlson, I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides client centered care with individualized treatment plans. I have over 10 years of experience in the medical field working with various patients and their families to overcome their mental illness. I have worked in numerous settings from Psychiatry Emergency to jail. I am specialized in treating mood disorders, including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, substance use disorders, ADHD, and psychosis.
My name is Carlson, I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides client centered care with individualized treatment plans. I have over 10 years of experience in the medical field working with various patients and their families to overcome their mental illness. I have worked in numerous settings from Psychiatry Emergency to jail. I am specialized in treating mood disorders, including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, substance use disorders, ADHD, and psychosis.
Dr. Ayesha Khan
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Laurel, MD 20707
Waitlist for new clients
I’m a double board certified child & adult psychiatrist. I work with two age groups: 3 to 17-year-olds with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, PTSD/trauma, autism, & OCD. I’m LGB, Trans, Non-Binary & Genderqueer affirming with related training & experience. I also see 18 to 32-year-olds who are BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color), autistic or LGBTQIA2S+, especially gender diverse folks. I can do assessments for gender affirming surgery. I’ve limited my adult intakes to improve access to care for marginalized populations due to a shortage of psychiatrists trained in providing affirming care.
I’m a double board certified child & adult psychiatrist. I work with two age groups: 3 to 17-year-olds with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, PTSD/trauma, autism, & OCD. I’m LGB, Trans, Non-Binary & Genderqueer affirming with related training & experience. I also see 18 to 32-year-olds who are BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color), autistic or LGBTQIA2S+, especially gender diverse folks. I can do assessments for gender affirming surgery. I’ve limited my adult intakes to improve access to care for marginalized populations due to a shortage of psychiatrists trained in providing affirming care.
Dr. Amanda Felix
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, AGNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Laurel, MD 20725 (Online Only)
She specializes in treating various mental health conditions including mood disorders (depression, bipolar), anxiety disorders, ADHD, OCD, and psychotic disorder such as schizophrenia.
*** ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS AGES 6 & ABOVE WITH A WAIT TIME OF 1 WEEK OR LESS *** Living with mental health conditions can be overwhelming. I understand all too well that the stigma of mental health can get in your way of seeking help. Even our own stigma may make us minimize or convince ourselves that everything is fine. But deciding to take charge of your mental health is an important decision to help you live a more fulfilling life.
She specializes in treating various mental health conditions including mood disorders (depression, bipolar), anxiety disorders, ADHD, OCD, and psychotic disorder such as schizophrenia.
*** ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS AGES 6 & ABOVE WITH A WAIT TIME OF 1 WEEK OR LESS *** Living with mental health conditions can be overwhelming. I understand all too well that the stigma of mental health can get in your way of seeking help. Even our own stigma may make us minimize or convince ourselves that everything is fine. But deciding to take charge of your mental health is an important decision to help you live a more fulfilling life.
My Care Clinic Llc- Hamida Majili
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Laurel, MD 20707
We help patients manage several conditions, such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, dementia, substance use disorders, bipolar, schizophrenia, sleep, eating disorders, panic attacks, and more.
I am Hamida Majili, a Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner Board Certified (PMHNP-BC). I have been in the healthcare field for over 13 years. Throughout my personal and career life, I have embraced diverse populations and strive to create a safe space for all, regardless of gender, religion, diagnosis, race/ethnicity, or sexual orientation. My Care Clinic (MCC) team focuses on person-centered care approaches and helping patients and families bridge the gap in mental health services, such as providing individualized therapy sessions, medication management, reducing mental health stigma, and providing access to care and resources.
We help patients manage several conditions, such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, dementia, substance use disorders, bipolar, schizophrenia, sleep, eating disorders, panic attacks, and more.
I am Hamida Majili, a Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner Board Certified (PMHNP-BC). I have been in the healthcare field for over 13 years. Throughout my personal and career life, I have embraced diverse populations and strive to create a safe space for all, regardless of gender, religion, diagnosis, race/ethnicity, or sexual orientation. My Care Clinic (MCC) team focuses on person-centered care approaches and helping patients and families bridge the gap in mental health services, such as providing individualized therapy sessions, medication management, reducing mental health stigma, and providing access to care and resources.
We provide psychiatric evaluation and medication management for various psychiatric disorders, including ADHD, depression, anxiety, schizoaffective disorder, bipolar disorders, irritability issues, PTSD, trauma, OCD, and more.
W am currently accepting new patients. However, we do not accept Virginia Medicaid. We Walk Together LLC Behavioral and Mental Health Clinic has helped many people grow and improve mentally, physically, spiritually, and emotionally through psychiatric mental health care. Our specialization lies in treating adults, offering comprehensive medication management for all mental health disorders including ADHD. The initial appointment typically lasts between 30 to 45 minutes, ensuring a thorough assessment. Medication is prescribed based on client preference and need. The best way to contact us is via email or text 240-607-5319.
We provide psychiatric evaluation and medication management for various psychiatric disorders, including ADHD, depression, anxiety, schizoaffective disorder, bipolar disorders, irritability issues, PTSD, trauma, OCD, and more.
W am currently accepting new patients. However, we do not accept Virginia Medicaid. We Walk Together LLC Behavioral and Mental Health Clinic has helped many people grow and improve mentally, physically, spiritually, and emotionally through psychiatric mental health care. Our specialization lies in treating adults, offering comprehensive medication management for all mental health disorders including ADHD. The initial appointment typically lasts between 30 to 45 minutes, ensuring a thorough assessment. Medication is prescribed based on client preference and need. The best way to contact us is via email or text 240-607-5319.
Areas of practice include ADHD, PTSD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder/mood disorders, trauma, and substance use.
**Accepting new clients.** Each person is unique in their cultural and social background. I take time to understand the whole person and treat patients with an individual, integrative approach, using both medication and other evidence-based strategies (including brain/behavioral modification tools). I also offer cannabis certifications in compliance with MMCC. I see children, adolescents, and adults and have been practicing medicine in the DMV for 12 years. I have specialized training in behavioral neurology and neuropsychiatry from the University of Illinois at Chicago and Shepherd-Pratt. I treat gaming, social media addiction.
Areas of practice include ADHD, PTSD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder/mood disorders, trauma, and substance use.
**Accepting new clients.** Each person is unique in their cultural and social background. I take time to understand the whole person and treat patients with an individual, integrative approach, using both medication and other evidence-based strategies (including brain/behavioral modification tools). I also offer cannabis certifications in compliance with MMCC. I see children, adolescents, and adults and have been practicing medicine in the DMV for 12 years. I have specialized training in behavioral neurology and neuropsychiatry from the University of Illinois at Chicago and Shepherd-Pratt. I treat gaming, social media addiction.
See more therapy options for Laurel
Nearby Bipolar Disorder Psychiatrists Searches for Laurel
- Beltsville
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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.