Bipolar Disorder Psychiatrists in Madison, TN

Photo of Toni A Williams, PMHNP, FNP-BC, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Toni A Williams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC, DNP
Verified Verified
Madison, TN 37115  (Online Only)
Our expertise covers behavioral health, addiction treatment, weight management, and conditions like depression and bipolar disorders.
I'm Toni, an accomplished healthcare professional, holding a Doctoral degree in Nursing Practice. Licensed in 39 states, I have certifications as a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-BC) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) from AANP and ANCC. My educational journey encompasses a Master's in Nursing (FNP) and a Bachelor's in Nursing. Additionally, I have diverse training, including ADN, LPN, and MA, providing me with a comprehensive foundation in healthcare. I serve as the VP of Nursing at Landmark Recovery. I lead strategic initiatives to ensure high-quality care and foster excellence in education and research.
Our expertise covers behavioral health, addiction treatment, weight management, and conditions like depression and bipolar disorders.
I'm Toni, an accomplished healthcare professional, holding a Doctoral degree in Nursing Practice. Licensed in 39 states, I have certifications as a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-BC) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) from AANP and ANCC. My educational journey encompasses a Master's in Nursing (FNP) and a Bachelor's in Nursing. Additionally, I have diverse training, including ADN, LPN, and MA, providing me with a comprehensive foundation in healthcare. I serve as the VP of Nursing at Landmark Recovery. I lead strategic initiatives to ensure high-quality care and foster excellence in education and research.
(629) 260-4788 View (629) 260-4788
Photo of LeTizia Baxter Smith, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
LeTizia Baxter Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Madison, TN 37115
I have experience working with a variety of mental health concerns including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD.
Welcome! I am proud of you for taking the first step in reaching out for help. I would be honored to hear your story and walk along side you in your healing journey. With over 17 years of experience in the mental health field, I have a variety of tools and knowledge to turn to in order to help assist you with overcoming whatever obstacles you feel are in your way. I am here to help you put all the pieces back together, and get you to the place you deserve to be.
I have experience working with a variety of mental health concerns including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD.
Welcome! I am proud of you for taking the first step in reaching out for help. I would be honored to hear your story and walk along side you in your healing journey. With over 17 years of experience in the mental health field, I have a variety of tools and knowledge to turn to in order to help assist you with overcoming whatever obstacles you feel are in your way. I am here to help you put all the pieces back together, and get you to the place you deserve to be.
(629) 262-5096 View (629) 262-5096
Photo of Windle Hogue Morgan - NOVO Healthcare, LLC, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse
NOVO Healthcare, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Madison, TN 37115
NOVO Healthcare, LLC. Provides psychiatric services for Nashville and its surrounding communities. We specialized in providing tiered levels of care for individuals to help them recover from life's challenges ranging from everyday stress to fully diagnose clinical syndromes. NOVO Healthcare, LLC is a professional, private, service oriented, behavioral and lifestyle management firm comprised of associates who compassionately assist our clients to renew, refresh, revive and recover form the effects of life's challenges.
NOVO Healthcare, LLC. Provides psychiatric services for Nashville and its surrounding communities. We specialized in providing tiered levels of care for individuals to help them recover from life's challenges ranging from everyday stress to fully diagnose clinical syndromes. NOVO Healthcare, LLC is a professional, private, service oriented, behavioral and lifestyle management firm comprised of associates who compassionately assist our clients to renew, refresh, revive and recover form the effects of life's challenges.
(615) 374-7131 View (615) 374-7131
Photo of Vedavyasa Biliyar - Tennessee Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Tennessee Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, TN 37115
Whether it is medication management, or in-depth talk therapy, the team at Tennessee Psychiatry is ready to help. Our team of psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners, and licensed clinical social workers are here to help you get back on track.
Whether it is medication management, or in-depth talk therapy, the team at Tennessee Psychiatry is ready to help. Our team of psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners, and licensed clinical social workers are here to help you get back on track.
(615) 422-6170 View (615) 422-6170
Photo of Scarlett Mulligan - Novus Behavioral Health, PA-C, Psychiatrist
Novus Behavioral Health
Psychiatrist, PA-C
Verified Verified
Madison, TN 37115
Experienced, compassionate psychiatric medication management services provided in Clarksville, TN in office or online. We're honored to join our patients on their journey from mental illness to mental wellness - we will not only react to symptoms of mental illness, we will work together to identify and implement a proactive plan to attain mental wellness . Our practice is comprised of experienced psychiatric providers. Veteran owned & operated. Please visit the website, call or email for further information.
Experienced, compassionate psychiatric medication management services provided in Clarksville, TN in office or online. We're honored to join our patients on their journey from mental illness to mental wellness - we will not only react to symptoms of mental illness, we will work together to identify and implement a proactive plan to attain mental wellness . Our practice is comprised of experienced psychiatric providers. Veteran owned & operated. Please visit the website, call or email for further information.
(931) 240-2134 View (931) 240-2134
Photo of Ben Leven, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ben Leven
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, TN 37115
We can work together to treat anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, setting boundaries, and PTSD by offering personalized treatment that gets to the root of the problem. You may be struggling recently with mood symptoms or your focus, and want to get back on track. We can work together to get with individualized treatment options, such as medication, supplements, behavior change, labwork, genetic testing, and talk therapy.
We can work together to treat anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, setting boundaries, and PTSD by offering personalized treatment that gets to the root of the problem. You may be struggling recently with mood symptoms or your focus, and want to get back on track. We can work together to get with individualized treatment options, such as medication, supplements, behavior change, labwork, genetic testing, and talk therapy.
(615) 903-5193 View (615) 903-5193
Photo of Gundu Reddy, MD, MBBS, Psychiatrist
Gundu Reddy
Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Madison, TN 37115  (Online Only)
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist in Tennessee. I have trained in Psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family and Marital therapy, as well as Psychiatric Medication Management. I have always believed that brain health is the key to every form of well being and every individual regardless of their diagnosis or symptoms has the potential to be healthier. Whether your reasons for seeking treatment include treatment-resistant hallucinations, persistent irritability, dysphoria, insomnia, wanting to perform better at work- the core principles of treatment are often similar.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist in Tennessee. I have trained in Psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family and Marital therapy, as well as Psychiatric Medication Management. I have always believed that brain health is the key to every form of well being and every individual regardless of their diagnosis or symptoms has the potential to be healthier. Whether your reasons for seeking treatment include treatment-resistant hallucinations, persistent irritability, dysphoria, insomnia, wanting to perform better at work- the core principles of treatment are often similar.
(931) 288-5153 View (931) 288-5153

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Kelly Anderson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kelly Anderson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37204
I am a holistic psychiatric nurse practitioner who diagnoses and treats a variety of mental health conditions including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and OCD.
Are you motivated to improve your mental health but don’t know where to begin? If anxiety and depression have kept you from living the life you wish for, I offer an environment of unconditional respect where we can walk together on your journey to meaningful wellness. By building an authentic therapeutic relationship, I will seek to fully understand your experiences, perspective and unique goals. I will encourage you to take an active role in your journey to wellness, even when change feels daunting or even downright impossible.
I am a holistic psychiatric nurse practitioner who diagnoses and treats a variety of mental health conditions including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and OCD.
Are you motivated to improve your mental health but don’t know where to begin? If anxiety and depression have kept you from living the life you wish for, I offer an environment of unconditional respect where we can walk together on your journey to meaningful wellness. By building an authentic therapeutic relationship, I will seek to fully understand your experiences, perspective and unique goals. I will encourage you to take an active role in your journey to wellness, even when change feels daunting or even downright impossible.
(615) 285-6230 View (615) 285-6230
Photo of Ladonna Hubbard, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ladonna Hubbard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37201  (Online Only)
At The Tiqvah Clinic we will work together to help you look forward to a future filled with hope, without the pain, anxiety, depression, and regret, you may be living with today. Are you looking to make changes in your life to maximize your mental health? Are considering a job change and struggling with tough decisions? Perhaps you’re struggling with an abusive spouse or other family member, and need guidance concerning how to navigate the situation safely. Anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder. We can help! Telemed offers you the convenience of a visit from the privacy of your home or wherever you have a cellular connection.
At The Tiqvah Clinic we will work together to help you look forward to a future filled with hope, without the pain, anxiety, depression, and regret, you may be living with today. Are you looking to make changes in your life to maximize your mental health? Are considering a job change and struggling with tough decisions? Perhaps you’re struggling with an abusive spouse or other family member, and need guidance concerning how to navigate the situation safely. Anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder. We can help! Telemed offers you the convenience of a visit from the privacy of your home or wherever you have a cellular connection.
(865) 344-6110 View (865) 344-6110
Photo of Diana Santiago, MD, Psychiatrist
Diana Santiago
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37201
Diana Santiago, MD is a bilingual (English and Spanish) board-certified, Adult, Child and Adolescent psychiatrist who specializes in psychopharmacology, anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorders, women’s health, and adolescent medicine.
Dr. Santiago is a Board Certified Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrist. Her treatment is provided in English or Spanish. Serving the States of Alabama, Arizona, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Massachusetts, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Texas. Appointments are available via telemedicine, at the comfort of your home or your own space. In Person appointments available in GA only.
Diana Santiago, MD is a bilingual (English and Spanish) board-certified, Adult, Child and Adolescent psychiatrist who specializes in psychopharmacology, anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorders, women’s health, and adolescent medicine.
Dr. Santiago is a Board Certified Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrist. Her treatment is provided in English or Spanish. Serving the States of Alabama, Arizona, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Massachusetts, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Texas. Appointments are available via telemedicine, at the comfort of your home or your own space. In Person appointments available in GA only.
(678) 647-6396 View (678) 647-6396
Photo of Justin Malais, RN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Justin Malais
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37212
Common clients of mine are children, adolescents, and adults, struggling with ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, and OCD among other psychiatric conditions. Individuals facing these symptoms may have interruptions of daily functioning. My clients need tools to manage their concerns and open communication to improve themselves and their relationships. Some goals are to control emotions and live a fulfilling life. The clients I see want lasting change because their conditions are keeping them from pursuing their passions and connecting with others.
Common clients of mine are children, adolescents, and adults, struggling with ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, and OCD among other psychiatric conditions. Individuals facing these symptoms may have interruptions of daily functioning. My clients need tools to manage their concerns and open communication to improve themselves and their relationships. Some goals are to control emotions and live a fulfilling life. The clients I see want lasting change because their conditions are keeping them from pursuing their passions and connecting with others.
(629) 225-1754 View (629) 225-1754
Photo of Rachel Ortiz, MSN, PMHNP-B, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rachel Ortiz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37204
You’re taking a big step in prioritizing yourself, and I'm glad you are here! As a dual certified nurse practitioner in both psychiatric-mental health and family medicine, I provide individualized holistic mental health treatment that sees you as a whole person and not just a list of symptoms. I have special interest and additional training in the diagnosis and management of ADHD, and am passionate about helping other adults with ADHD build strategies to thrive in all areas of their life. Additionally, I provide medication management for adults with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, chronic stress and addiction.
You’re taking a big step in prioritizing yourself, and I'm glad you are here! As a dual certified nurse practitioner in both psychiatric-mental health and family medicine, I provide individualized holistic mental health treatment that sees you as a whole person and not just a list of symptoms. I have special interest and additional training in the diagnosis and management of ADHD, and am passionate about helping other adults with ADHD build strategies to thrive in all areas of their life. Additionally, I provide medication management for adults with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, chronic stress and addiction.
(629) 258-7601 View (629) 258-7601
Photo of Eric Avent - Spring Creek Mental Health Services , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Spring Creek Mental Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Goodlettsville, TN 37072
Spring Creek Mental Health consists of Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners. Their training and experience qualify them to diagnose, treat, and prescribe medication for patients across the lifespan. Our primary focus is to deliver evidence-based mental health care services and provide quality resources for patients involved. We offer telemedicine and in-person services. Some of our practice specialties include (but not limited to): ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar, schizophrenia, PTSD, and support for members of the LGBTQIA community.
Spring Creek Mental Health consists of Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners. Their training and experience qualify them to diagnose, treat, and prescribe medication for patients across the lifespan. Our primary focus is to deliver evidence-based mental health care services and provide quality resources for patients involved. We offer telemedicine and in-person services. Some of our practice specialties include (but not limited to): ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar, schizophrenia, PTSD, and support for members of the LGBTQIA community.
(615) 708-4950 View (615) 708-4950
Photo of Arif K Mirza - Dr Arif Mirza MD | Germantown Private Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr Arif Mirza MD | Germantown Private Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37240  (Online Only)
ADHD All Meds -Stimulants/Non Stimulants, ADHD Testing (All Ages) Panic Attacks Anxiety Disorder Meds, Insomnia Sleep Disorders Prescriptions, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Erectile Dysfunction Autism Testing (Child Adolescent), ADHD Extended Time Help (School/College) Emotional Support Animal Assist FMLA & Disability Paperwork Help, Sick Slip Doctor Note.
Welcome! ...As an experienced Psychiatrist in private practice, inpatient and telehealth settings, I'm here to offer authentic, compassionate care. Time is precious, especially for busy students, parents, and working professionals. I look forward to collaborate to reach your goals ASAP! ... Same week Video appointments are available. Text 469-770-7750 for quick booking assist.
ADHD All Meds -Stimulants/Non Stimulants, ADHD Testing (All Ages) Panic Attacks Anxiety Disorder Meds, Insomnia Sleep Disorders Prescriptions, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Erectile Dysfunction Autism Testing (Child Adolescent), ADHD Extended Time Help (School/College) Emotional Support Animal Assist FMLA & Disability Paperwork Help, Sick Slip Doctor Note.
Welcome! ...As an experienced Psychiatrist in private practice, inpatient and telehealth settings, I'm here to offer authentic, compassionate care. Time is precious, especially for busy students, parents, and working professionals. I look forward to collaborate to reach your goals ASAP! ... Same week Video appointments are available. Text 469-770-7750 for quick booking assist.
(629) 276-6166 View (629) 276-6166
Photo of Tory Woodard, MSN,  PMHNP-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tory Woodard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-
Verified Verified
Old Hickory, TN 37138
He is knowledgeable and confident in treating conditions such as depression, bipolar, anxiety-related disorders, ADHD, psychosis, childhood behavior issues, and Autism spectrum related symptoms.
Tory A. Woodard is a board-certified family psychiatric nurse practitioner with 15 years of experience as a prescriber. His education includes a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Tennessee State University, a Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology from Middle Tennessee University, and a Master of Science in Nursing, with a specialty in psychiatry, from Vanderbilt University. He has experience in treating all ages and has worked predominately in community mental health and private outpatient settings, but also has experience providing services in school-based settings, residential programs, and primary care.
He is knowledgeable and confident in treating conditions such as depression, bipolar, anxiety-related disorders, ADHD, psychosis, childhood behavior issues, and Autism spectrum related symptoms.
Tory A. Woodard is a board-certified family psychiatric nurse practitioner with 15 years of experience as a prescriber. His education includes a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Tennessee State University, a Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology from Middle Tennessee University, and a Master of Science in Nursing, with a specialty in psychiatry, from Vanderbilt University. He has experience in treating all ages and has worked predominately in community mental health and private outpatient settings, but also has experience providing services in school-based settings, residential programs, and primary care.
(615) 747-1431 View (615) 747-1431
Photo of Michael Kanell, MD, Psychiatrist
Michael Kanell
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37212  (Online Only)
Kanell has expertise treating adults with a broad spectrum of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, attention/hyperactivity, obsessions and compulsions, post-traumatic stress disorder, sleep disturbance, anger issues, bipolar disorder, and cognitive disorders.
Currently accepting new patients. Dr. Kanell is a board-certified psychiatrist practicing in West Los Angeles and remotely in Tennessee. Dr. Kanell's approach balances evidence-based medication with emotionally aware therapy to help you make real change. His goal is to help you live your own life honestly and build the self-reliance to take control of your future and make deep character change.
Kanell has expertise treating adults with a broad spectrum of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, attention/hyperactivity, obsessions and compulsions, post-traumatic stress disorder, sleep disturbance, anger issues, bipolar disorder, and cognitive disorders.
Currently accepting new patients. Dr. Kanell is a board-certified psychiatrist practicing in West Los Angeles and remotely in Tennessee. Dr. Kanell's approach balances evidence-based medication with emotionally aware therapy to help you make real change. His goal is to help you live your own life honestly and build the self-reliance to take control of your future and make deep character change.
(310) 361-4381 View (310) 361-4381
Photo of Luis Dulin, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Luis Dulin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Goodlettsville, TN 37072
At Open Minds Mental Health Services we believe in evidence based treatment with a collaborative approach. We practice holistic interventions that incorporate a combination of medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes to better your overall mental health. Our practice treats mental health conditions across the lifespan including Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, and Addiction Issues. Luis Dulin is fluent in Spanish and offers culturally sensitive care, however an interpreter will be necessary to schedule the initial appointment with the front desk to begin treatment.
At Open Minds Mental Health Services we believe in evidence based treatment with a collaborative approach. We practice holistic interventions that incorporate a combination of medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes to better your overall mental health. Our practice treats mental health conditions across the lifespan including Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, and Addiction Issues. Luis Dulin is fluent in Spanish and offers culturally sensitive care, however an interpreter will be necessary to schedule the initial appointment with the front desk to begin treatment.
(615) 433-6334 View (615) 433-6334
Photo of Markeshe Wood, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Markeshe Wood
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37202  (Online Only)
Hello! I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) based in Tennessee. I am a dually certified provider and received my Masters in psychiatric mental health from the University of Maryville. I help clients struggling with mental health disorders and medication management become the best versions of themselves. Disorders include, but are not limited to anxiety, depression, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and bipolar disorder.
Hello! I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) based in Tennessee. I am a dually certified provider and received my Masters in psychiatric mental health from the University of Maryville. I help clients struggling with mental health disorders and medication management become the best versions of themselves. Disorders include, but are not limited to anxiety, depression, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and bipolar disorder.
(629) 302-1424 View (629) 302-1424
Photo of Kendra O. Delaney, PhD, PMHNP, AGPCNP, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kendra O. Delaney
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP, AGPCNP, RN
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37203
Welcome to Empowered Heart Integrative Mental Health Care, PLLC! We are an outpatient integrative mental health clinic that utilizes psychiatric medications, supplements, lab testing, and the healing arts to work with children 5+, teens and adults to meet their mental, emotional, physical and spiritual needs. We treat a variety of mental health conditions including, but not limited to: trauma, anxiety, & PTSD; depression & bipolar disorder; disordered eating; inattention & ADHD; and pre- and post-natal mood disorders, infertility, and loss.
Welcome to Empowered Heart Integrative Mental Health Care, PLLC! We are an outpatient integrative mental health clinic that utilizes psychiatric medications, supplements, lab testing, and the healing arts to work with children 5+, teens and adults to meet their mental, emotional, physical and spiritual needs. We treat a variety of mental health conditions including, but not limited to: trauma, anxiety, & PTSD; depression & bipolar disorder; disordered eating; inattention & ADHD; and pre- and post-natal mood disorders, infertility, and loss.
(615) 488-8675 View (615) 488-8675
Photo of Eric Avent, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Eric Avent
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Goodlettsville, TN 37072
Eric Avent is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. His training and experience qualify him to diagnose, treat, and prescribe medication for patients across the lifespan. Eric's primary focus is to deliver evidence-based mental health care services and provide quality resources for patients involved. He offers telemedicine services. Some of his practice specialties include (but not limited to): ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, and support for members of the LGBTQ+ community.
Eric Avent is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. His training and experience qualify him to diagnose, treat, and prescribe medication for patients across the lifespan. Eric's primary focus is to deliver evidence-based mental health care services and provide quality resources for patients involved. He offers telemedicine services. Some of his practice specialties include (but not limited to): ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, and support for members of the LGBTQ+ community.
(615) 212-8887 View (615) 212-8887
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.