Bipolar Disorder Psychiatrists in North Bethesda, MD
![Photo of Maura Constance, MPH, PMHNP, FNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/caebcc4f-34c9-496a-8f6e-8b3a8e09ef60/1/320x400.jpeg)
Maura Constance
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MPH, PMHNP, FNP, BC
Verified Verified
North Bethesda, MD 20852
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.
![Photo of Bashkim Kadriu, MD, FAPA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40733e42-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
My subspeciality is on mood disorders and my practice focuses in the evaluation and treatment of depression, bipolar disorder, general anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorders (PTSD), ADHD, related adjustment and stress-related disorders etc I provide medication management, consultations, individual or couples and/or family psychotherapy.
I received my board certification by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN). I completed my Psychiatry Residency training at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York City and the National Institute of Mental Health, Bethesda. My treatment approach is individual-centered, uniquely and collaboratively created with the client via a thorough understanding of life experience, symptoms, needs, and goals. It aims to improve individual mental health and overall sense of well-being. Complex mind & brain requires integrated multi-modal approach and thorough clinical expertise to ensure the best care is provided.
My subspeciality is on mood disorders and my practice focuses in the evaluation and treatment of depression, bipolar disorder, general anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorders (PTSD), ADHD, related adjustment and stress-related disorders etc I provide medication management, consultations, individual or couples and/or family psychotherapy.
I received my board certification by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN). I completed my Psychiatry Residency training at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York City and the National Institute of Mental Health, Bethesda. My treatment approach is individual-centered, uniquely and collaboratively created with the client via a thorough understanding of life experience, symptoms, needs, and goals. It aims to improve individual mental health and overall sense of well-being. Complex mind & brain requires integrated multi-modal approach and thorough clinical expertise to ensure the best care is provided.
![Photo of Evlyn Billy-Eko, BSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9063d97f-4ca8-4e61-a397-c1d236f12499/2/320x400.png)
Evlyn Billy-Eko
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Bethesda, MD 20852 (Online Only)
Are you struggling with managing your mental health, feeling overwhelmed by symptoms that interfere with your daily life? Do you long for effective support and treatment tailored to your unique needs? I specialize in treating a range of mental health conditions, including depression disorder, anxiety disorder, PTSD, Bipolar disorder, ADHD, Neurodevelopmental disorder, Schizophrenia spectrum, and other psychotic disorders. With my expertise and compassionate approach, I am dedicated to helping individuals like you navigate these challenges and reclaim a sense of well-being. You don't have to face these challenges alone.
Are you struggling with managing your mental health, feeling overwhelmed by symptoms that interfere with your daily life? Do you long for effective support and treatment tailored to your unique needs? I specialize in treating a range of mental health conditions, including depression disorder, anxiety disorder, PTSD, Bipolar disorder, ADHD, Neurodevelopmental disorder, Schizophrenia spectrum, and other psychotic disorders. With my expertise and compassionate approach, I am dedicated to helping individuals like you navigate these challenges and reclaim a sense of well-being. You don't have to face these challenges alone.
![Photo of Edward Gelber, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6d0f03b4-f007-407f-ae9b-e7551f2fe8c1/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am seeing patients in my Rockville office located at 11119 Rockville Pike, Suite 200, and by videoconference (Zoom). I received my medical degree at the University of Pennsylvania. I provide psychiatric treatment for a wide range of challenges in adults, adolescents and pre-teens. My approach is to create a personalized treatment plan starting from scientific treatment guidelines and focusing on your individual needs and strengths. I have wide-ranging expertise including the treatment of anxiety, depression, addiction, ADD/ADHD, bipolar disorder, OCD, women's psychiatric needs, schizophrenia, and impulsivity.
I am seeing patients in my Rockville office located at 11119 Rockville Pike, Suite 200, and by videoconference (Zoom). I received my medical degree at the University of Pennsylvania. I provide psychiatric treatment for a wide range of challenges in adults, adolescents and pre-teens. My approach is to create a personalized treatment plan starting from scientific treatment guidelines and focusing on your individual needs and strengths. I have wide-ranging expertise including the treatment of anxiety, depression, addiction, ADD/ADHD, bipolar disorder, OCD, women's psychiatric needs, schizophrenia, and impulsivity.
![Photo of Mimi Jimenez, MSN, CRNP, PMH, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/08f2646e-6cab-4de2-b1a0-ae43d424bab8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mimi Jimenez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, PMH
Verified Verified
North Bethesda, MD 20852
We are accepting new clients. Mimi Jimenez is a psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who uses various treatments, including psychiatric evaluations, psychosocial interventions, and medication management. Her specialty is devoted to diagnosing, preventing, and treating mental disorders.
We are accepting new clients. Mimi Jimenez is a psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who uses various treatments, including psychiatric evaluations, psychosocial interventions, and medication management. Her specialty is devoted to diagnosing, preventing, and treating mental disorders.
![Photo of Rivka Ben-Dor, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/458ffaa7-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I provide personalized treatment for both women and men seeking comprehensive psychiatric care. Problems can often feel overwhelming. Together we will work to identify the problem and the solutions in a safe and confidential atmosphere. If you are feeling anxious, down, or are having trouble concentrating I will work with you to attain a better quality of life. If you already have a therapist, I will communicate regularly with your therapist to provide personalized and effective care.
I provide personalized treatment for both women and men seeking comprehensive psychiatric care. Problems can often feel overwhelming. Together we will work to identify the problem and the solutions in a safe and confidential atmosphere. If you are feeling anxious, down, or are having trouble concentrating I will work with you to attain a better quality of life. If you already have a therapist, I will communicate regularly with your therapist to provide personalized and effective care.
![Photo of Henriette Karekezi - Clear Minds Family and Mental Health Services, MSN, PMHNP, - BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/85bd2aed-637a-4a42-afdc-18d9be875da5/4/320x400.jpeg)
Clear Minds Family and Mental Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, - BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Bethesda, MD 20852
Result and data driven, Clear Minds Family and mental Health providers use evidenced- based practice to optimize care and preserve patient safety. We provide initial psychiatric evaluations and follow ups for patients 18 years old and up. Our attention is focused on actively listening to ours patients and proactively design, manage the treatments plans. Anxieties, ADHD, Depression, Bi-polar, insomnia & Schizophrenia are often seen. We prescribe and administer long acting injectables, offer therapy and health education all tailored to achieve mental, emotional and behavioral well-being and help with clarity and optimal productivity.
Result and data driven, Clear Minds Family and mental Health providers use evidenced- based practice to optimize care and preserve patient safety. We provide initial psychiatric evaluations and follow ups for patients 18 years old and up. Our attention is focused on actively listening to ours patients and proactively design, manage the treatments plans. Anxieties, ADHD, Depression, Bi-polar, insomnia & Schizophrenia are often seen. We prescribe and administer long acting injectables, offer therapy and health education all tailored to achieve mental, emotional and behavioral well-being and help with clarity and optimal productivity.
![Photo of Amir Etesam, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0514eac0-e954-4de0-a202-f4c91621b929/1/320x400.jpeg)
Currently We are Only Accepting Patients with Moderate to Severe Major Depressive Disorder Dr. Amir Etesam, MD, is a Johns Hopkins-trained Psychiatrist at Bright Horizons Psychiatry in North Bethesda, Maryland and currently accepts new patients who are suffering from Depression. He is a member of the well-respected Alpha Omega Alpha (AOA), the only medical honor society in the world. Dr. Etesam is a National Institute of Mental Health (NIH) certified TMS provider. His particular interests include complex psychopharmacology, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), and Intranasal Ketamine Esketamine (Spravato) treatment for T
Currently We are Only Accepting Patients with Moderate to Severe Major Depressive Disorder Dr. Amir Etesam, MD, is a Johns Hopkins-trained Psychiatrist at Bright Horizons Psychiatry in North Bethesda, Maryland and currently accepts new patients who are suffering from Depression. He is a member of the well-respected Alpha Omega Alpha (AOA), the only medical honor society in the world. Dr. Etesam is a National Institute of Mental Health (NIH) certified TMS provider. His particular interests include complex psychopharmacology, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), and Intranasal Ketamine Esketamine (Spravato) treatment for T
![Photo of Dr. Gregory Barber, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e48d3eda-71fc-4c82-acd3-c2a4ac30d501/2/320x400.jpeg)
Whether you’re experiencing symptoms like depression or anxiety, attempting to make sense of past challenges or traumas, going through relationship difficulties or a major life transition, our work together can help you understand yourself better and feel empowered to cope. With a combination of psychotherapy and, when needed, medications, I will work collaboratively with you to come up with the best plan for navigating whatever challenges you might be experiencing in your life.
Whether you’re experiencing symptoms like depression or anxiety, attempting to make sense of past challenges or traumas, going through relationship difficulties or a major life transition, our work together can help you understand yourself better and feel empowered to cope. With a combination of psychotherapy and, when needed, medications, I will work collaboratively with you to come up with the best plan for navigating whatever challenges you might be experiencing in your life.
![Photo of Valerie T. Relacion, MD, DFAPA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1bb7da11-da29-45ca-9d8a-8059fe8e974c/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a Certified Integrative Psychiatric Provider (CIPP), I am excited to work with patients who are interested in exploring alternative treatment options to achieve wellness and those interested in a combination of traditional and integrative approaches.
As a Certified Integrative Psychiatric Provider (CIPP), I am excited to work with patients who are interested in exploring alternative treatment options to achieve wellness and those interested in a combination of traditional and integrative approaches.
Dr. Rosse, works with a multidisciplinary group practice, where our goal is to provide thoughtful, competent, compassionate, and thorough psychiatric consultation, diagnostic evaluation, medication treatment, and as well as therapy services to clients in a confidential and caring environment with special consideration to biological, psychological, and physical health. We are an integrated mental health service provider where psychiatrists, psychologists, and psychotherapists collectively treat mental illnesses with complete consideration of your full medical, psychological, social, and family history.
Dr. Rosse, works with a multidisciplinary group practice, where our goal is to provide thoughtful, competent, compassionate, and thorough psychiatric consultation, diagnostic evaluation, medication treatment, and as well as therapy services to clients in a confidential and caring environment with special consideration to biological, psychological, and physical health. We are an integrated mental health service provider where psychiatrists, psychologists, and psychotherapists collectively treat mental illnesses with complete consideration of your full medical, psychological, social, and family history.
15 Second Videos
Amir Etesam
Apurva Makadiya
Sara Singh
![Photo of Dr. Apurva Makadiya, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0506f5b4-2098-4f97-8792-737d7860c45e/2/320x400.jpeg)
At Medpsych Health Services, our goal is to provide thoughtful, competent, compassionate, and thorough psychiatric consultation, diagnostic evaluation, medication treatment, and as well as therapy services to clients in a confidential and caring environment with special consideration to biological, psychological, and physical health. We are an integrated mental health service provider where psychiatrists, psychologists, and psychotherapists collectively treat mental illnesses with complete consideration of your full medical, psychological, social, and family history.
At Medpsych Health Services, our goal is to provide thoughtful, competent, compassionate, and thorough psychiatric consultation, diagnostic evaluation, medication treatment, and as well as therapy services to clients in a confidential and caring environment with special consideration to biological, psychological, and physical health. We are an integrated mental health service provider where psychiatrists, psychologists, and psychotherapists collectively treat mental illnesses with complete consideration of your full medical, psychological, social, and family history.
![Photo of Sara Singh, MD, DFAPA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c9ac56a-b960-4fae-9788-092b13719c8b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Singh, works with a multidisciplinary group practice, where our goal is to provide thoughtful, competent, compassionate, and thorough psychiatric consultation, diagnostic evaluation, medication treatment, and as well as therapy services to clients in a confidential and caring environment with special consideration to biological, psychological, and physical health. We are an integrated mental health service provider and use evidence-based latest techniques to treat mental illnesses with complete consideration of your full medical, psychological, social, and family history.
Dr. Singh, works with a multidisciplinary group practice, where our goal is to provide thoughtful, competent, compassionate, and thorough psychiatric consultation, diagnostic evaluation, medication treatment, and as well as therapy services to clients in a confidential and caring environment with special consideration to biological, psychological, and physical health. We are an integrated mental health service provider and use evidence-based latest techniques to treat mental illnesses with complete consideration of your full medical, psychological, social, and family history.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Amita Jha, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5098cbf3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Extensive experience in treating depression, bipolar ds, anxiety ds, eating ds, panic ds, OCD, personality ds and other problems related to life-changing situations.
To make appointments please visit us at www.BethesdapsychiatryMD.com or call us 202-999-5712. We accept care first, Cigna, UHC and Aetna Insurances. Board-certified adult psychiatrist, Boston University, with 25 years of experience. We are a comprehensive psychiatry service, offering medication management with board-certified psychiatrists, nurse practitioners, 8 licensed psychotherapists in our practice. Easy scheduling, check availability by clicking the website button on the left for online appointments and detailed information.
Extensive experience in treating depression, bipolar ds, anxiety ds, eating ds, panic ds, OCD, personality ds and other problems related to life-changing situations.
To make appointments please visit us at www.BethesdapsychiatryMD.com or call us 202-999-5712. We accept care first, Cigna, UHC and Aetna Insurances. Board-certified adult psychiatrist, Boston University, with 25 years of experience. We are a comprehensive psychiatry service, offering medication management with board-certified psychiatrists, nurse practitioners, 8 licensed psychotherapists in our practice. Easy scheduling, check availability by clicking the website button on the left for online appointments and detailed information.
DMV Medical Group
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kensington, MD 20895
With 12 years of psychiatric nursing experience, my expertise spans depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, psychotic disorder, and mental health rehabilitation, focusing on the adult population.
I'm a dedicated professional with a passion for psychiatric mental health. My philosophy is rooted in empathy, competence, and care. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I am committed to bringing positive change to the community by upholding values of respect, compassion, and consistency. I firmly believe that every patient, regardless of background or orientation, deserves respectful and confidential care. Preserving patient autonomy is at the core of my professional philosophy, driven by early experiences and values that fuel my focus on individuals facing mental health challenges.
With 12 years of psychiatric nursing experience, my expertise spans depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, psychotic disorder, and mental health rehabilitation, focusing on the adult population.
I'm a dedicated professional with a passion for psychiatric mental health. My philosophy is rooted in empathy, competence, and care. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I am committed to bringing positive change to the community by upholding values of respect, compassion, and consistency. I firmly believe that every patient, regardless of background or orientation, deserves respectful and confidential care. Preserving patient autonomy is at the core of my professional philosophy, driven by early experiences and values that fuel my focus on individuals facing mental health challenges.
![Photo of Mabel Brossa - Mabel Brossa @ Realms Health Services, LLC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2e6aabd0-11f9-4798-8cfc-0f10e65b582e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mabel Brossa @ Realms Health Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockville, MD 20852 (Online Only)
As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I dedicate myself to assisting my patients and their families on their mental health journey. My passion lies in understanding the unique needs of each individual. I make it a priority to listen attentively, allowing us to collaborate in the development of a personalized treatment plan. I specialize in the evaluation and management of various conditions, including ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, OCD, PTSD, Substance Use Disorder, Conduct Disorder, Sleep Disorders, Disruptive behavior, and Impulse control.
As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I dedicate myself to assisting my patients and their families on their mental health journey. My passion lies in understanding the unique needs of each individual. I make it a priority to listen attentively, allowing us to collaborate in the development of a personalized treatment plan. I specialize in the evaluation and management of various conditions, including ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, OCD, PTSD, Substance Use Disorder, Conduct Disorder, Sleep Disorders, Disruptive behavior, and Impulse control.
![Photo of Grace N Ashu-Ngang - First Royal Health Care Service, Inc, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e2987d99-5218-4dc9-865f-2dd56c40b8a7/2/320x400.jpeg)
First Royal Health Care Service, Inc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20902
We are here to help your recover from depression, anxiety, mood swings, bipolar disorder, substance use and more.
At First Royal Health Care Services, we provide mental health assessment and develop individualized treatment plan based on your unique goals for treatment. Our directive is to get more people living with mental illness to recovery faster by combining clinical care, advocacy, research, and education to transform their lives. Our mission is to deliver gratifying cost-effective and humanistic outcomes in providing quality psychiatric care. We want our patients to have the confidence in expressing and placing their trust in us. At First Royal Health Care Services, we take Pride in your well-being and work with you through recovery
We are here to help your recover from depression, anxiety, mood swings, bipolar disorder, substance use and more.
At First Royal Health Care Services, we provide mental health assessment and develop individualized treatment plan based on your unique goals for treatment. Our directive is to get more people living with mental illness to recovery faster by combining clinical care, advocacy, research, and education to transform their lives. Our mission is to deliver gratifying cost-effective and humanistic outcomes in providing quality psychiatric care. We want our patients to have the confidence in expressing and placing their trust in us. At First Royal Health Care Services, we take Pride in your well-being and work with you through recovery
![Photo of Robert M. Post, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/797e314d-996c-43aa-8dba-d55ca2b8decf/2/320x400.png)
Post has committed his career, including 35 years at the NIMH, 20 of those as Chief of the Biological Psychiatry Branch, to bettering the understanding and treatment of treatment-resistant depression and bipolar illness.
Dr. Post is world-renowned psychiatrist known for providing one-time consultations for children and adults with difficult-to-treat mood disorders such as unipolar depression and bipolar disorder. He has published over 1080 articles on these topics and continues to conduct research and publish work to contribute to the scientific advancement of treatments for these disorders. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he is providing consults via telemedicine.
Post has committed his career, including 35 years at the NIMH, 20 of those as Chief of the Biological Psychiatry Branch, to bettering the understanding and treatment of treatment-resistant depression and bipolar illness.
Dr. Post is world-renowned psychiatrist known for providing one-time consultations for children and adults with difficult-to-treat mood disorders such as unipolar depression and bipolar disorder. He has published over 1080 articles on these topics and continues to conduct research and publish work to contribute to the scientific advancement of treatments for these disorders. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he is providing consults via telemedicine.
![Photo of Bukola M Zubair - Bukola Zubair, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, BSN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a0884d18-21df-430a-b33c-89988a0b3767/2/320x400.jpeg)
Bukola Zubair, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, BSN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Rockville, MD 20852
Do you need medication management support? As a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I can help you get holistic mental health support and, when needed, the medication that helps you better manage anxiety, depression, ADD/ADHD, OCD, bipolar disorder (BPD), and other challenges. If you are recovering from addiction or alcohol abuse, I can prescribe Buprenorphine, Suboxone, Naloxone, and other harm reduction medications. You can lead a fuller, happier life. Contact me via phone, text, or email. I am looking forward to helping!
Do you need medication management support? As a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I can help you get holistic mental health support and, when needed, the medication that helps you better manage anxiety, depression, ADD/ADHD, OCD, bipolar disorder (BPD), and other challenges. If you are recovering from addiction or alcohol abuse, I can prescribe Buprenorphine, Suboxone, Naloxone, and other harm reduction medications. You can lead a fuller, happier life. Contact me via phone, text, or email. I am looking forward to helping!
![Photo of Terri Lee Pargot, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c344b8c1-d41a-4b39-90b2-f19d555e0396/4/320x400.jpeg)
Are you struggling with feelings of loneliness, low self-esteem, uncertainty about your future? Are there problems in your relationships that you are having trouble understanding or working on by yourself? As a psychiatrist and psychotherapist I have been working with patients for over 30 years. I treat a wide range of emotional conflicts and their manifestations including depression, bipolar disorder and anxiety. Anxiety comes in many forms - e.g. chronic feelings of being anxious, panic attacks, social or performance anxiety, PTSD, OCD. I also treat adult patients with ADHD, eating disorders and sexual issues.
Are you struggling with feelings of loneliness, low self-esteem, uncertainty about your future? Are there problems in your relationships that you are having trouble understanding or working on by yourself? As a psychiatrist and psychotherapist I have been working with patients for over 30 years. I treat a wide range of emotional conflicts and their manifestations including depression, bipolar disorder and anxiety. Anxiety comes in many forms - e.g. chronic feelings of being anxious, panic attacks, social or performance anxiety, PTSD, OCD. I also treat adult patients with ADHD, eating disorders and sexual issues.
See more therapy options for North Bethesda
Nearby Bipolar Disorder Psychiatrists Searches for North Bethesda
- Beltsville
- Bethesda
- Chevy Chase
- College Park
- Gaithersburg
- Kensington
- Montgomery Village
- Olney
- Potomac
- Rockville
- Silver Spring
- Takoma Park
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.