Bipolar Disorder Psychiatrists in Burnsville, MN

Photo of Dr. Uhunoma Lysa Osadolor - Ample Grace Psychiatry, DNP, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ample Grace Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Burnsville, MN 55306
We can assess, diagnose, and treat the following conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, Insomnia, PTSD, ADHD, and adult autism.
We are currently accepting new patients for ADHD Neuropsychological testing. Think you have ADHD? No problem! We offer ADHD Objective Testing that can be used to guide ADHD diagnosis for patients. The testing can also be done at the office and via telehealth. We also offer adult autism assessment and DBT-informed therapy. At Ample Grace Psychiatry, we offer a custom approach for each client! We start with understanding where you are now and your challenges. We help you put a plan in place to help you move forward, and we celebrate your successes along the way. We offer an inclusive, safe space with visits to suit your schedule.
We can assess, diagnose, and treat the following conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, Insomnia, PTSD, ADHD, and adult autism.
We are currently accepting new patients for ADHD Neuropsychological testing. Think you have ADHD? No problem! We offer ADHD Objective Testing that can be used to guide ADHD diagnosis for patients. The testing can also be done at the office and via telehealth. We also offer adult autism assessment and DBT-informed therapy. At Ample Grace Psychiatry, we offer a custom approach for each client! We start with understanding where you are now and your challenges. We help you put a plan in place to help you move forward, and we celebrate your successes along the way. We offer an inclusive, safe space with visits to suit your schedule.
(623) 526-5557 View (623) 526-5557
Photo of Habon Mohamed - Minnesota Behavioral Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Minnesota Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Burnsville, MN 55306
I specialize in mental health evaluations, diagnosis, and medication management for conditions like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, ADHD, and more.
Hello, my name is Habon Mohamed, and I am a dual-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-BC). I know that seeking mental health care can be daunting, and finding the right provider is key to meaningful progress. Whether you're managing depression, anxiety, ADHD, or other mental health concerns, my aim is to create a space where you feel understood and supported. Many of my clients seek clarity, balance, and empowerment, and I strive to provide personalized care to help you achieve your goals.
I specialize in mental health evaluations, diagnosis, and medication management for conditions like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, ADHD, and more.
Hello, my name is Habon Mohamed, and I am a dual-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-BC). I know that seeking mental health care can be daunting, and finding the right provider is key to meaningful progress. Whether you're managing depression, anxiety, ADHD, or other mental health concerns, my aim is to create a space where you feel understood and supported. Many of my clients seek clarity, balance, and empowerment, and I strive to provide personalized care to help you achieve your goals.
(952) 960-9111 View (952) 960-9111
Photo of Asisat Ashagbe - Hanan Health LLC, APRN, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Hanan Health LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burnsville, MN 55306
Hanan Health LLC seeks to help individuals struggling with mental health symptoms alleviate their concerns by assessing, diagnosing and finding the right treatment for their individual conditions. Specialties includes Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, and other mental health concerns.
Hanan Health LLC seeks to help individuals struggling with mental health symptoms alleviate their concerns by assessing, diagnosing and finding the right treatment for their individual conditions. Specialties includes Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, and other mental health concerns.
(952) 592-9801 View (952) 592-9801
Photo of Chase Thomas, DNP, CNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Chase Thomas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Burnsville, MN 55306
My ideal client is one that is looking to improve their mental health symptoms and their quality of life.
My ideal client is one that is looking to improve their mental health symptoms and their quality of life.
(952) 892-7690 View (952) 892-7690
Photo of Cassidy Furey, APRN, CNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Cassidy Furey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Burnsville, MN 55337
I have a special interest in neurodevelopmental, genetic, anxiety, and mood disorders.
I have a special interest in neurodevelopmental, genetic, anxiety, and mood disorders.
Photo of Marquitta Trimnell, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Marquitta Trimnell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burnsville, MN 55337
Living with a mental illness can be challenging. Maybe you have sought out support from loved ones or are engaged in psychotherapy, but continue to struggle with symptoms that impact your daily life. If you are interested in discussing the other interventions we offer here at Pinnacle Behavioral Healthcare, from supplements and medications to Spravato and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), please reach out and schedule a time for us to connect!
Living with a mental illness can be challenging. Maybe you have sought out support from loved ones or are engaged in psychotherapy, but continue to struggle with symptoms that impact your daily life. If you are interested in discussing the other interventions we offer here at Pinnacle Behavioral Healthcare, from supplements and medications to Spravato and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), please reach out and schedule a time for us to connect!
(952) 295-3666 View (952) 295-3666
Photo of Madeline Jacobs, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Madeline Jacobs
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Burnsville, MN 55306  (Online Only)
Madeline Jacobs is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She holds a Master of Science in Nursing from Oregon Health & Science University and has been working in the psychiatric field since 2015. She has worked at the Los Angeles LGBT Center, the largest LGBT Center in the country, and would love the opportunity to broaden the reach of LGBTQ+ affirming mental health care through telepsychiatry. She is trained in EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing), an evidence-based trauma therapy. She takes a trauma-informed perspective on mental health care.
Madeline Jacobs is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She holds a Master of Science in Nursing from Oregon Health & Science University and has been working in the psychiatric field since 2015. She has worked at the Los Angeles LGBT Center, the largest LGBT Center in the country, and would love the opportunity to broaden the reach of LGBTQ+ affirming mental health care through telepsychiatry. She is trained in EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing), an evidence-based trauma therapy. She takes a trauma-informed perspective on mental health care.
(503) 836-5120 x2 View (503) 836-5120 x2
Photo of Alicia Berger - Balance Psychiatric Services, DNP, CRNP, PHMNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Balance Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PHMNP
Verified Verified
Burnsville, MN 55337  (Online Only)
We understand that you are coming to us at one of the most vulnerable and difficult times in your life. We will listen to your concerns without judgement and offer a safe space to overcome your unique challenges. We are here to help if you are struggling with overwhelming feelings of sadness, irritability, anxious thoughts, or chaotic shifts in your mood. We can assess for ADHD if you feel unable to focus or struggle with completing tasks without distraction. We are experienced in providing trauma informed care.
We understand that you are coming to us at one of the most vulnerable and difficult times in your life. We will listen to your concerns without judgement and offer a safe space to overcome your unique challenges. We are here to help if you are struggling with overwhelming feelings of sadness, irritability, anxious thoughts, or chaotic shifts in your mood. We can assess for ADHD if you feel unable to focus or struggle with completing tasks without distraction. We are experienced in providing trauma informed care.
(651) 314-1599 View (651) 314-1599
Photo of Olivier Djoumessi, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Olivier Djoumessi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Burnsville, MN 55337  (Online Only)
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with eight years of healthcare experience. I am dedicated, compassionate, and patient focused. My approach to care combines medication management with supportive therapy, focusing on empowering individuals to overcome personal challenges through a comprehensive and integrative method. I believe in treating the whole person, not just the symptoms. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based therapies, psychoeducation, and motivational interviewing, tailoring each treatment plan to the unique needs of my patients.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with eight years of healthcare experience. I am dedicated, compassionate, and patient focused. My approach to care combines medication management with supportive therapy, focusing on empowering individuals to overcome personal challenges through a comprehensive and integrative method. I believe in treating the whole person, not just the symptoms. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based therapies, psychoeducation, and motivational interviewing, tailoring each treatment plan to the unique needs of my patients.
(651) 565-6849 View (651) 565-6849
Photo of Jhaurel Johnson White, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jhaurel Johnson White
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Burnsville, MN 55337  (Online Only)
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and I have an extensive background in caring for the adult, geriatric, and veteran populations in outpatient, acute, and emergency mental health care settings. I also have experience treating patients in crisis residential treatment, residential rehabilitation, and telehealth settings. I am excited to provide care for adult patients in need here at Rula. I utilize mental health medication and therapy when providing care for my patients.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and I have an extensive background in caring for the adult, geriatric, and veteran populations in outpatient, acute, and emergency mental health care settings. I also have experience treating patients in crisis residential treatment, residential rehabilitation, and telehealth settings. I am excited to provide care for adult patients in need here at Rula. I utilize mental health medication and therapy when providing care for my patients.
(507) 443-3499 View (507) 443-3499
Photo of Kristin Hanson (Oscarson), DNP, CNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kristin Hanson (Oscarson)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Burnsville, MN 55306
I enjoy working alongside clients and appreciate the complexity of each individual in the ups and down of life. Treatment plans are individualized to meet clients’ needs and can include medication, supplements, referrals to specific therapies, and lifestyle modification. As a Christian, I integrate faith into my practice for clients who are interested. Providing psychiatric evaluations, treatment and supportive therapy with a holistic and integrative approach for ages 14-64, I aim to collaborate and meet clients where they are at to support them in leading a healthy, fulfilling life.
I enjoy working alongside clients and appreciate the complexity of each individual in the ups and down of life. Treatment plans are individualized to meet clients’ needs and can include medication, supplements, referrals to specific therapies, and lifestyle modification. As a Christian, I integrate faith into my practice for clients who are interested. Providing psychiatric evaluations, treatment and supportive therapy with a holistic and integrative approach for ages 14-64, I aim to collaborate and meet clients where they are at to support them in leading a healthy, fulfilling life.
Photo of Dan Watts, DNP, APRN , PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dan Watts
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN , PMHNP
Verified Verified
Burnsville, MN 55306
My private practice, Free Range Mental Health, offers medication management, brief therapy, and substance use disorder treatment including Medication assisted therapy (MAT) including Naltrexone and Suboxone, as well as referrals to outside agencies if needed.
My private practice, Free Range Mental Health, offers medication management, brief therapy, and substance use disorder treatment including Medication assisted therapy (MAT) including Naltrexone and Suboxone, as well as referrals to outside agencies if needed.
(507) 709-7962 View (507) 709-7962

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Uhunoma Lysa Osadolor - Ample Grace Psychiatry , DNP, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ample Grace Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Lakeville, MN 55044
We can assess, diagnose, and treat the following conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, Insomnia, PTSD, ADHD, and adult autism.
We are currently accepting new patients for ADHD Neuropsychological testing. Think you have ADHD? No problem! We offer ADHD Objective Testing that can be used to guide ADHD diagnosis for patients. The testing can also be done at the office and via telehealth. We also offer adult autism assessment and DBT-informed therapy. At Ample Grace Psychiatry, we offer a custom approach for each client! We start with understanding where you are now and your challenges. We help you put a plan in place to help you move forward, and we celebrate your successes along the way. We offer an inclusive, safe space with visits to suit your schedule.
We can assess, diagnose, and treat the following conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, Insomnia, PTSD, ADHD, and adult autism.
We are currently accepting new patients for ADHD Neuropsychological testing. Think you have ADHD? No problem! We offer ADHD Objective Testing that can be used to guide ADHD diagnosis for patients. The testing can also be done at the office and via telehealth. We also offer adult autism assessment and DBT-informed therapy. At Ample Grace Psychiatry, we offer a custom approach for each client! We start with understanding where you are now and your challenges. We help you put a plan in place to help you move forward, and we celebrate your successes along the way. We offer an inclusive, safe space with visits to suit your schedule.
(603) 207-3133 View (603) 207-3133
Photo of Dr. Nicholas Hatcher, DNP, PMHNP, CIPP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Nicholas Hatcher
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, CIPP
Verified Verified
Bloomington, MN 55425  (Online Only)
I treat a variety of conditions, including but not limited to trauma, anxiety, depression, bipolar spectrum, and ADHD.
I like working with those who are interested in a more comprehensive evaluation of the brain-body-environment interaction and how different systems interact. Instead of relying on guesswork, my specialty includes advanced diagnostic testing to better understand these relationships and tailor treatment to your unique needs. I want to provide the most for you as a whole individual while minimizing interruptions to your daily life (no waiting in the office or waiting months for an appointment). You, as my patient, will have direct access to me for the duration of your treatment via text, email, or call. Accepting UHC & private pay.
I treat a variety of conditions, including but not limited to trauma, anxiety, depression, bipolar spectrum, and ADHD.
I like working with those who are interested in a more comprehensive evaluation of the brain-body-environment interaction and how different systems interact. Instead of relying on guesswork, my specialty includes advanced diagnostic testing to better understand these relationships and tailor treatment to your unique needs. I want to provide the most for you as a whole individual while minimizing interruptions to your daily life (no waiting in the office or waiting months for an appointment). You, as my patient, will have direct access to me for the duration of your treatment via text, email, or call. Accepting UHC & private pay.
(612) 682-7838 View (612) 682-7838
Photo of Samantha Atkinson, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Samantha Atkinson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Savage, MN 55378
While she sees patients with a variety of mental health concerns, she has a special interest in providing psychiatric treatment for people with medical comorbidities, treatment resistant depression, psychosis, and management of bipolar disorder.
Samantha is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 10 years of nursing experience in a variety of mental health settings across the lifespan including inpatient, residential, and chemical dependency treatment. She is currently focused on treating patients ages 18 and up. For the past two years, Samantha has been working as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner on the inpatient psychiatry consult service in partnership with Fairview and the University of Minnesota Physicians, where she served patients who were medically and psychologically complex.
While she sees patients with a variety of mental health concerns, she has a special interest in providing psychiatric treatment for people with medical comorbidities, treatment resistant depression, psychosis, and management of bipolar disorder.
Samantha is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 10 years of nursing experience in a variety of mental health settings across the lifespan including inpatient, residential, and chemical dependency treatment. She is currently focused on treating patients ages 18 and up. For the past two years, Samantha has been working as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner on the inpatient psychiatry consult service in partnership with Fairview and the University of Minnesota Physicians, where she served patients who were medically and psychologically complex.
(952) 260-6219 View (952) 260-6219
Photo of Dr. Uhunoma Lysa Osadolor - Ample Grace Psychiatry, DNP, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ample Grace Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Bloomington, MN 55431
We can assess, diagnose, and treat the following conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, Insomnia, PTSD, ADHD, and adult autism.
We are currently accepting new patients for ADHD Neuropsychological testing. Think you have ADHD? No problem! We offer ADHD Objective Testing that can be used to guide ADHD diagnosis for patients. The testing can also be done at the office and via telehealth. We also offer adult autism assessment and DBT-informed therapy. At Ample Grace Psychiatry, we offer a custom approach for each client! We start with understanding where you are now and your challenges. We help you put a plan in place to help you move forward, and we celebrate your successes along the way. We offer an inclusive, safe space with visits to suit your schedule.
We can assess, diagnose, and treat the following conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, Insomnia, PTSD, ADHD, and adult autism.
We are currently accepting new patients for ADHD Neuropsychological testing. Think you have ADHD? No problem! We offer ADHD Objective Testing that can be used to guide ADHD diagnosis for patients. The testing can also be done at the office and via telehealth. We also offer adult autism assessment and DBT-informed therapy. At Ample Grace Psychiatry, we offer a custom approach for each client! We start with understanding where you are now and your challenges. We help you put a plan in place to help you move forward, and we celebrate your successes along the way. We offer an inclusive, safe space with visits to suit your schedule.
(612) 324-4110 View (612) 324-4110
Photo of Andrietta Wright Barnett, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Andrietta Wright Barnett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Apple Valley, MN 55124
Throughout my career, I’ve extensively engaged with individuals facing mental health challenges- bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, OCD, ADHD, anxiety, depression, and PTSD.
Andrietta W. Barnett, with over two decades as a nurse practitioner, I’ve navigated diverse healthcare realms. Holding a Doctorate in Nursing Practice from Walden University and a Doctorate in Psychology from the University of South Carolina Columbia, I specialize in Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health. My approach to therapy and medication management is individualized. I strive to understand the unique life circumstances of each client so I can develop a treatment plan that addresses their specific challenges and goals.
Throughout my career, I’ve extensively engaged with individuals facing mental health challenges- bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, OCD, ADHD, anxiety, depression, and PTSD.
Andrietta W. Barnett, with over two decades as a nurse practitioner, I’ve navigated diverse healthcare realms. Holding a Doctorate in Nursing Practice from Walden University and a Doctorate in Psychology from the University of South Carolina Columbia, I specialize in Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health. My approach to therapy and medication management is individualized. I strive to understand the unique life circumstances of each client so I can develop a treatment plan that addresses their specific challenges and goals.
(651) 705-4350 View (651) 705-4350
Photo of Karena Rother, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Karena Rother
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Farmington, MN 55024
NEW patients welcome! I provide diagnosis and treatment for adolescents, teens, and adults with a variety of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and substance use disorders.
NEW patients welcome! I provide diagnosis and treatment for adolescents, teens, and adults with a variety of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and substance use disorders.
(651) 240-6698 View (651) 240-6698
Photo of Thelma Mahya Browne-Kaine, APRN, PMHNP, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Thelma Mahya Browne-Kaine
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, DNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Apple Valley, MN 55124  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating ADHD, depression, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma, psychotic disorders, bipolar I and II, schizophrenia, substance misuse, and chronic mental illness using psychiatric assessment, psychopharmacology management, and brief psychotherapeutic interventions.
As your provider, I conduct a thorough psychiatric assessment and offer psychotherapy and psychopharmacology management to help you lead your best life. I approach my role as a friend, helping you understand your symptoms and diagnoses. My practice is centered on providing safe, empathetic, and patient-centric mental healthcare to children, adolescents, and adults. To achieve your healthcare goals, I follow evidence-based guidelines, complemented by my extensive clinical experience, personal observations, and intuition.
I specialize in treating ADHD, depression, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma, psychotic disorders, bipolar I and II, schizophrenia, substance misuse, and chronic mental illness using psychiatric assessment, psychopharmacology management, and brief psychotherapeutic interventions.
As your provider, I conduct a thorough psychiatric assessment and offer psychotherapy and psychopharmacology management to help you lead your best life. I approach my role as a friend, helping you understand your symptoms and diagnoses. My practice is centered on providing safe, empathetic, and patient-centric mental healthcare to children, adolescents, and adults. To achieve your healthcare goals, I follow evidence-based guidelines, complemented by my extensive clinical experience, personal observations, and intuition.
(763) 250-5547 View (763) 250-5547
Photo of Asisat O Ashagbe, APRN, CNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Asisat O Ashagbe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eagan, MN 55122
I specialize in assessing, diagnosing and treating mental health symptoms to include depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar, schizophrenia and various mental health concerns. If you are looking for a provider that listens to your problems and cares about helping you improve then you have found the right person to be trusted with your care.
I specialize in assessing, diagnosing and treating mental health symptoms to include depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar, schizophrenia and various mental health concerns. If you are looking for a provider that listens to your problems and cares about helping you improve then you have found the right person to be trusted with your care.
(651) 565-9434 View (651) 565-9434

See more therapy options for Burnsville

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.