Bipolar Disorder Psychiatrists in Newberg, OR

Photo of Ablavi Agomessou - Ivydale Psychiatry -Virtual Visit-Children &Adults, PMHNP-C, FNP-C, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ivydale Psychiatry -Virtual Visit-Children &Adults
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C, FNP-C, DNP
Verified Verified
Newberg, OR 97132  (Online Only)
We are offering compassionate care via telepsychiatry(virtual visit) throughout the state of Oregon and accepting new patients for Addiction & Mental Health for Medication Management!!! We have expertise in treating children through adults, with minimal waiting time. Call our office now to get help scheduling your appointment. Telepsychiatry Across Oregon! Be seen from the privacy of your home with our experts! Virtual Compassionate , Comprehensive and Holistic Addiction and Mental Health Care! Schedule your visit today! Medication Management to all ages via Telepsychiatry !
We are offering compassionate care via telepsychiatry(virtual visit) throughout the state of Oregon and accepting new patients for Addiction & Mental Health for Medication Management!!! We have expertise in treating children through adults, with minimal waiting time. Call our office now to get help scheduling your appointment. Telepsychiatry Across Oregon! Be seen from the privacy of your home with our experts! Virtual Compassionate , Comprehensive and Holistic Addiction and Mental Health Care! Schedule your visit today! Medication Management to all ages via Telepsychiatry !
(678) 922-4240 View (678) 922-4240
Photo of Timothy Lafolette, RN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse
Timothy Lafolette
Psychiatric Nurse, RN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newberg, OR 97132  (Online Only)
I enjoy helping clients to identify and head toward their goals. I've been in practice for 11 years, and worked with a diverse set of clients in a federally qualified health clinic. I believe in the power of individual work, alongside being involved in relationships to bring about the greatest healing and fulfillment in life. I believe in focusing on client values to collaborate on the plan. I value viewing and addressing issues from multiple angles to find what's going to be the best approach for a particular client. For instance, I will focus on physical health, thoughts, emotions, as well as spirituality, and chosen community.
I enjoy helping clients to identify and head toward their goals. I've been in practice for 11 years, and worked with a diverse set of clients in a federally qualified health clinic. I believe in the power of individual work, alongside being involved in relationships to bring about the greatest healing and fulfillment in life. I believe in focusing on client values to collaborate on the plan. I value viewing and addressing issues from multiple angles to find what's going to be the best approach for a particular client. For instance, I will focus on physical health, thoughts, emotions, as well as spirituality, and chosen community.
(971) 278-9801 View (971) 278-9801
Photo of Jennifer Behnke - Thrive Integrative Psychiatry, PC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Thrive Integrative Psychiatry, PC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Newberg, OR 97132
Serving Yamhill County - Now Offering TMS! We are a team of clinicians (Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners, LPC) with a passion for helping people cultivate optimal mental health and wellbeing. We believe medication can be a powerful tool but is often just part of the puzzle of true healing. We value taking time with people, being present and listening to the whole story. We believe we heal best when we feel heard and take an active role in our own treatment.
Serving Yamhill County - Now Offering TMS! We are a team of clinicians (Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners, LPC) with a passion for helping people cultivate optimal mental health and wellbeing. We believe medication can be a powerful tool but is often just part of the puzzle of true healing. We value taking time with people, being present and listening to the whole story. We believe we heal best when we feel heard and take an active role in our own treatment.
(971) 251-9589 View (971) 251-9589
Photo of Mackenzie Callis, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mackenzie Callis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newberg, OR 97132  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I provide medication management primarily via telehealth for the treatment of anxiety and mood disorders (depression and bipolar spectrum disorders), psychosis, ADHD (after assessment by a psychologist), and substance use (alcohol, tobacco, and opioids). I specialize in managing nuisance side effects, many of which cause folks to discontinue otherwise effective medications. My prescribing philosophy embraces collaborative decision-making and the integration of multiple therapeutic modalities into medication management visits. At this time I do not offer weekly psychotherapy, but can provide referrals to therapists in your community.
I provide medication management primarily via telehealth for the treatment of anxiety and mood disorders (depression and bipolar spectrum disorders), psychosis, ADHD (after assessment by a psychologist), and substance use (alcohol, tobacco, and opioids). I specialize in managing nuisance side effects, many of which cause folks to discontinue otherwise effective medications. My prescribing philosophy embraces collaborative decision-making and the integration of multiple therapeutic modalities into medication management visits. At this time I do not offer weekly psychotherapy, but can provide referrals to therapists in your community.
(503) 664-9799 View (503) 664-9799

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Joanna Ahounou - Restore Psychiatric Wellness, MSN, PHMNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Restore Psychiatric Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PHMNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilsonville, OR 97070
Extensive experience in treating- Depression; ADD/ADHD; Anxiety; Sleep disorders; Bipolar; Schizophrenia; Mood D/O; Alzheimer's D/O; Dementia.
Accepting new clients! Psychaitric nurse practitioner - Board certified with over a decade -Psychiatry & Psychotherapy. With compassion I use an in depth approach to uncover the root causes of your condition, and guide you towards long-term healing. Will collaborate with you or family to provide individualized pschotherapy and medication management .True healing demands an approach to mental health that takes each individual's culture/ enviroment into consideration. Provide ample time for your visits and will educate you about different treatment options to maintain mental stability. Lab tests are part of treatment plan.
Extensive experience in treating- Depression; ADD/ADHD; Anxiety; Sleep disorders; Bipolar; Schizophrenia; Mood D/O; Alzheimer's D/O; Dementia.
Accepting new clients! Psychaitric nurse practitioner - Board certified with over a decade -Psychiatry & Psychotherapy. With compassion I use an in depth approach to uncover the root causes of your condition, and guide you towards long-term healing. Will collaborate with you or family to provide individualized pschotherapy and medication management .True healing demands an approach to mental health that takes each individual's culture/ enviroment into consideration. Provide ample time for your visits and will educate you about different treatment options to maintain mental stability. Lab tests are part of treatment plan.
(503) 966-0325 View (503) 966-0325
Photo of Bonnie Lambert, PMHNP, LPC, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Bonnie Lambert
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, LPC, RN
Verified Verified
Hillsboro, OR 97123
Visit BloomWellnessPdx.com. Mental health diagnoses can vary from depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, psychosis, and personality disorders, among others. I believe that all things exist on a spectrum, and the intensity will vary. Due to this, diagnosis is an ever-evolving process that won’t happen with one session, but several and with rapport and trust. Information gathered in the initial evaluation is thoroughly reviewed to establish a diagnosis.
Visit BloomWellnessPdx.com. Mental health diagnoses can vary from depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, psychosis, and personality disorders, among others. I believe that all things exist on a spectrum, and the intensity will vary. Due to this, diagnosis is an ever-evolving process that won’t happen with one session, but several and with rapport and trust. Information gathered in the initial evaluation is thoroughly reviewed to establish a diagnosis.
(971) 351-4287 View (971) 351-4287
Photo of Trevor Rachko, MSN, PMH-NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Trevor Rachko
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMH-NP
Verified Verified
Wilsonville, OR 97070  (Online Only)
I don’t believe in a cookie-cutter approach to mental health, but rather I consider each person in the unique context of his or her own life, and partner with each person to make a plan that leads to the best possible result. To me, the patient is the boss in that dynamic. I would like to note that I am ardent supporter of your Constitutional rights, especially the 1st and 2nd Amendments.
I don’t believe in a cookie-cutter approach to mental health, but rather I consider each person in the unique context of his or her own life, and partner with each person to make a plan that leads to the best possible result. To me, the patient is the boss in that dynamic. I would like to note that I am ardent supporter of your Constitutional rights, especially the 1st and 2nd Amendments.
(971) 273-5092 View (971) 273-5092
Photo of Rebecca Dorsey - NW Mind-Body Wellness - Rebecca Dorsey, PMHNP, FNP, ENP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
NW Mind-Body Wellness - Rebecca Dorsey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, ENP
Verified Verified
Wilsonville, OR 97070
Accepting new patients! As your healthcare provider, I know that one cannot simply separate the mind from the body and the best care uses a holistic approach. I am board certified in psychiatry, family medicine, and emergency medicine; which gives me the unique ability to integrate all areas of your health into treatment planning. I provide mental health services that look at all aspects of care to include physical health concerns, environmental factors, and other barriers to care. My aim is to build therapeutic relationships with my clients and their families that focus on both immediate and long-term goals.
Accepting new patients! As your healthcare provider, I know that one cannot simply separate the mind from the body and the best care uses a holistic approach. I am board certified in psychiatry, family medicine, and emergency medicine; which gives me the unique ability to integrate all areas of your health into treatment planning. I provide mental health services that look at all aspects of care to include physical health concerns, environmental factors, and other barriers to care. My aim is to build therapeutic relationships with my clients and their families that focus on both immediate and long-term goals.
(503) 966-2448 View (503) 966-2448
Photo of Julie Bremer, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Julie Bremer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Aurora, OR 97002
Welcome! Meet Julie Bremer, a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in acute care, labor and delivery, newborn care, and case management. Passionate about perinatal mental health, Julie is certified through PSI and has volunteered as a peer support. She believes in treating the whole person with a welcoming, caring, and non-judgmental approach.
Welcome! Meet Julie Bremer, a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in acute care, labor and delivery, newborn care, and case management. Passionate about perinatal mental health, Julie is certified through PSI and has volunteered as a peer support. She believes in treating the whole person with a welcoming, caring, and non-judgmental approach.
(720) 707-3124 View (720) 707-3124
Photo of Roger Tunks, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Roger Tunks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilsonville, OR 97070  (Online Only)
I see patients from school-aged to 64, specializing in people struggling with focus, inattention, depressive thoughts, anxiety, and mood irregularities. I see people that are struggling in their lives and often times do not understand what these struggles are or how to describe them, but know they want to feel better. I want to partner with people to help them understand what is causing their challenges and more importantly what can be done to improve their quality of life.
I see patients from school-aged to 64, specializing in people struggling with focus, inattention, depressive thoughts, anxiety, and mood irregularities. I see people that are struggling in their lives and often times do not understand what these struggles are or how to describe them, but know they want to feel better. I want to partner with people to help them understand what is causing their challenges and more importantly what can be done to improve their quality of life.
(503) 386-0537 View (503) 386-0537
Dr. Julia Bishop-Tall (Previously Bishop-Taylor)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sherwood, OR 97140
(503) 379-1178 View (503) 379-1178

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Doris Okoli, DNP, MPH, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Doris Okoli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MPH, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97221
My main areas of focus include ADHD, Bipolar, Major Depressive disorder, Anxiety, OCD, and Insomnia.
I am Doris Okoli DNP, MPH, PMHNP-BC. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health provider who sees patients from age 10-90 years. With over 10 years’ experience working in the mental health field, I am committed to serving those who are seeking relief from mental health symptoms that have impacted their happiness, connections with others, and quality of life. I graduated from Brandman University with a Doctorate in Nursing, Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science with dual degrees in Masters in Public Health and Masters in Nursing.
My main areas of focus include ADHD, Bipolar, Major Depressive disorder, Anxiety, OCD, and Insomnia.
I am Doris Okoli DNP, MPH, PMHNP-BC. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health provider who sees patients from age 10-90 years. With over 10 years’ experience working in the mental health field, I am committed to serving those who are seeking relief from mental health symptoms that have impacted their happiness, connections with others, and quality of life. I graduated from Brandman University with a Doctorate in Nursing, Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science with dual degrees in Masters in Public Health and Masters in Nursing.
(503) 647-6297 View (503) 647-6297
Photo of Josh Hamilton - Brightside Health, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brightside Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97210  (Online Only)
We specialize in treating anxiety, depression, and many other common concerns like panic, bipolar, postpartum depression, and suicidal thoughts.
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
We specialize in treating anxiety, depression, and many other common concerns like panic, bipolar, postpartum depression, and suicidal thoughts.
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
(207) 204-3829 View (207) 204-3829
Photo of Jasmine Elia, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jasmine Elia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97232
Jasmine Elia is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She understands mental health and provides safe treatment approaches. Jasmine also delivers effective & personalized responses. She provides treatment for adolescents and adults, ages 13 to 65+. Jasmine treats most psychiatric disorders & provide medication management and brief psychotherapy. She offers evidence-based treatment for various conditions, including depression, anxiety, stress, bipolar, ADHD (evaluation & Treatment), postpartum depression, and phase of life transitions tailored to our client's needs in a safe and confidential environment.
Jasmine Elia is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She understands mental health and provides safe treatment approaches. Jasmine also delivers effective & personalized responses. She provides treatment for adolescents and adults, ages 13 to 65+. Jasmine treats most psychiatric disorders & provide medication management and brief psychotherapy. She offers evidence-based treatment for various conditions, including depression, anxiety, stress, bipolar, ADHD (evaluation & Treatment), postpartum depression, and phase of life transitions tailored to our client's needs in a safe and confidential environment.
(206) 429-4340 View (206) 429-4340
Photo of Farzad Kamyar, MD, MBA, ABPN, ABPM, Psychiatrist
Farzad Kamyar
Psychiatrist, MD, MBA, ABPN, ABPM
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Oswego, OR 97035  (Online Only)
Specialties include Depression, Anxiety, and Bipolar Disorder.
For all new patient inquiries and questions, please go to: www.principlemind.com/new-patient-inquiry EMAILS and CALLS sent through Psychology Today are not monitored nor responded to. At the Principal Mind, the practice is about the integration of medication with goal-specific therapy. We aim to meet individuals where they are, while at the same time working as hard as they are. We treat the person in front of us and their symptoms, as every diagnosis may present differently, and be caused by different sources. If you are motivated and open-minded, we can work to actually get you better.
Specialties include Depression, Anxiety, and Bipolar Disorder.
For all new patient inquiries and questions, please go to: www.principlemind.com/new-patient-inquiry EMAILS and CALLS sent through Psychology Today are not monitored nor responded to. At the Principal Mind, the practice is about the integration of medication with goal-specific therapy. We aim to meet individuals where they are, while at the same time working as hard as they are. We treat the person in front of us and their symptoms, as every diagnosis may present differently, and be caused by different sources. If you are motivated and open-minded, we can work to actually get you better.
Photo of Phebee William - Pw psych no svcs pllc, MA, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse
Pw psych no svcs pllc
Psychiatric Nurse, MA, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97223  (Online Only)
Treating depression, bipolar, anxiety, and ADHD is my passion; we can analyze the issue together.
About the Provider: I am a Board Certified, Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, (PMHNP-BC). I obtained my professional degree from Walden University. Over the years, I had professional affiliations with reputable mental health facilities including Bakersfield behavior, John George psych and more. I treat children and adults affected by various mental illness with care and compassion. I utilize Evidence Based Practice model to make treatment choices. I am specialized in treating ADHD, depression, anxiety and mood instability. Stimulant and non-stimulant treatment are available. I do conduct ADHD screening and testing before treatment.
Treating depression, bipolar, anxiety, and ADHD is my passion; we can analyze the issue together.
About the Provider: I am a Board Certified, Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, (PMHNP-BC). I obtained my professional degree from Walden University. Over the years, I had professional affiliations with reputable mental health facilities including Bakersfield behavior, John George psych and more. I treat children and adults affected by various mental illness with care and compassion. I utilize Evidence Based Practice model to make treatment choices. I am specialized in treating ADHD, depression, anxiety and mood instability. Stimulant and non-stimulant treatment are available. I do conduct ADHD screening and testing before treatment.
(503) 386-0190 View (503) 386-0190
Photo of Mollie Kathleen Pence, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mollie Kathleen Pence
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Oregon City, OR 97045  (Online Only)
I have > 10 years of Mental Health Nursing experience, with a trauma based treatment approach for anxiety, depression, bipolar spectrum, substance use, and psychotic disorders within inpatient, outpatient (community & private practice), and crisis service (ER and urgent care) settings.
My core values include honesty, empathy, and vulnerability. I am nationally board certified in psychopharmacology and psychotherapeutic techniques that focus on a holistic treatment approach for each patient. This individualized treatment prioritizes the important mind body connection we humans share. My core experience has been treating anxiety and mood spectrum disorders, substance use disorders, and training in neuromodulation therapies for treatment resistant depression. I am currently accepting new patients ages 18-65. Please contact me for current hours of operation. Telehealth services only at this time.
I have > 10 years of Mental Health Nursing experience, with a trauma based treatment approach for anxiety, depression, bipolar spectrum, substance use, and psychotic disorders within inpatient, outpatient (community & private practice), and crisis service (ER and urgent care) settings.
My core values include honesty, empathy, and vulnerability. I am nationally board certified in psychopharmacology and psychotherapeutic techniques that focus on a holistic treatment approach for each patient. This individualized treatment prioritizes the important mind body connection we humans share. My core experience has been treating anxiety and mood spectrum disorders, substance use disorders, and training in neuromodulation therapies for treatment resistant depression. I am currently accepting new patients ages 18-65. Please contact me for current hours of operation. Telehealth services only at this time.
(503) 300-4097 View (503) 300-4097
Photo of Beaux Baggensen-Jensen, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Beaux Baggensen-Jensen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97225  (Online Only)
I specialize in addressing anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, depression, stress management, as well as trauma.
I am passionate about providing empathetic and holistic mental healthcare, centered on each person’s specific needs. Through medication management, cognitive-behavioral techniques, motivational interviewing, and engaged listening, I am happy to offer an array of solutions in a team-based approach. My goal is to empower individuals to embrace their unique gifts and help them become the best version of themselves.
I specialize in addressing anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, depression, stress management, as well as trauma.
I am passionate about providing empathetic and holistic mental healthcare, centered on each person’s specific needs. Through medication management, cognitive-behavioral techniques, motivational interviewing, and engaged listening, I am happy to offer an array of solutions in a team-based approach. My goal is to empower individuals to embrace their unique gifts and help them become the best version of themselves.
(971) 251-9755 View (971) 251-9755
Photo of Nancy Masters, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nancy Masters
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97209
Nancy graduated from Washington State University with a Master of Science in Nursing, and is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has more than 10 years of experience and specializes in treating patients with depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar and sleep disorders, as well as patients in the LGBTQIA+ community with care needs related to gender dysphoria/transgender-related mental health care. She treats patients ages 14-64.
Nancy graduated from Washington State University with a Master of Science in Nursing, and is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has more than 10 years of experience and specializes in treating patients with depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar and sleep disorders, as well as patients in the LGBTQIA+ community with care needs related to gender dysphoria/transgender-related mental health care. She treats patients ages 14-64.
(971) 318-2448 x2 View (971) 318-2448 x2
Photo of Erika Bales, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Erika Bales
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97206  (Online Only)
I can help you find relief from symptoms of anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, sleep issues, postpartum issues, OCD, PTSD, and many more.
Accepting new patients! Are you feeling overwhelmed? Taking the first step towards healing can be daunting, but you're not alone on this journey. I am here to help guide you towards a more fulfilling life with symptom relief. I believe in fostering a strong therapeutic alliance built on trust and respect. Together, we will create an effective treatment plan tailored to you. I combine evidence-based techniques with a holistic approach, taking into account your physical, emotional, and mental well-being. My goal is to support you in restoring and maintaining a healthier state of mind.
I can help you find relief from symptoms of anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, sleep issues, postpartum issues, OCD, PTSD, and many more.
Accepting new patients! Are you feeling overwhelmed? Taking the first step towards healing can be daunting, but you're not alone on this journey. I am here to help guide you towards a more fulfilling life with symptom relief. I believe in fostering a strong therapeutic alliance built on trust and respect. Together, we will create an effective treatment plan tailored to you. I combine evidence-based techniques with a holistic approach, taking into account your physical, emotional, and mental well-being. My goal is to support you in restoring and maintaining a healthier state of mind.
(971) 298-8186 View (971) 298-8186
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.