Bipolar Disorder Psychiatrists in Mount Juliet, TN

Photo of Tory Woodard, MSN,  PMHNP-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tory Woodard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-
Verified Verified
Mount Juliet, TN 37122
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 Jordan Roundtree, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jordan Roundtree
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mount Juliet, TN 37121
We treat ADHD, depression, anxiety, alcohol use, bipolar, schizophrenia, insomnia/sleep disorders, PTSD/trauma, OCD, and more.
I'm the owner of Roundtree Mental Health Group, which is an in-person and telehealth practice offering psychiatric diagnostics and psychopharmacological treatment to clients in Tennessee. We offer a highly individualized and attentive focus on our clients’ difficulties, maintaining an interest in medication management. Our ultimate goal is to empower individuals to live fulfilling and meaningful lives. We want our patients to feel heard and valued. We want to help you discover the root cause of your symptoms to allow for true healing and understanding. We truly want you to feel the best you can!
We treat ADHD, depression, anxiety, alcohol use, bipolar, schizophrenia, insomnia/sleep disorders, PTSD/trauma, OCD, and more.
I'm the owner of Roundtree Mental Health Group, which is an in-person and telehealth practice offering psychiatric diagnostics and psychopharmacological treatment to clients in Tennessee. We offer a highly individualized and attentive focus on our clients’ difficulties, maintaining an interest in medication management. Our ultimate goal is to empower individuals to live fulfilling and meaningful lives. We want our patients to feel heard and valued. We want to help you discover the root cause of your symptoms to allow for true healing and understanding. We truly want you to feel the best you can!
(615) 434-8973 View (615) 434-8973
Photo of Shelley Chamberlain - Open Minds Mental Health Services, PHMNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Open Minds Mental Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PHMNP
Verified Verified
Mount Juliet, TN 37121
Our practice treats mental health conditions across the lifespan including Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, and Addiction Issues.
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.
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.
(615) 212-8887 View (615) 212-8887
Photo of Taylor Newsom, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Taylor Newsom
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
24 Endorsed
Mount Juliet, TN 37122
Welcome! I am glad you are here. I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner that provides medication management and therapy services for children, adolescents and adults. I have been working in the mental health field for over 5 years, and have experience in the in-patient, out-patient, and emergency room settings. I work with clients struggling with emotional disturbances and various mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, trauma, adjustment disorders, bipolar disorder, and ADHD.
Welcome! I am glad you are here. I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner that provides medication management and therapy services for children, adolescents and adults. I have been working in the mental health field for over 5 years, and have experience in the in-patient, out-patient, and emergency room settings. I work with clients struggling with emotional disturbances and various mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, trauma, adjustment disorders, bipolar disorder, and ADHD.
(615) 437-6802 View (615) 437-6802
Photo of Rebecca Hill, PMHNP,  PMHNP-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rebecca Hill
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, PMHNP-
Verified Verified
Mount Juliet, TN 37122
Rebecca Hill is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Tennessee. She graduated Belmont University’s BSN, RN program in 2015 and Frontier Nursing University’s MSN, PMHNP program in 2022. Rebecca primarily provides medication management services with light, supportive therapy. Rebecca’s philosophy centers around the principles of active listening, thoughtful inquiry, and collaborative partnership with her clients. This dialogue forms the foundation upon which she builds unique and personalized treatment plans that cater to each client’s specific needs.
Rebecca Hill is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Tennessee. She graduated Belmont University’s BSN, RN program in 2015 and Frontier Nursing University’s MSN, PMHNP program in 2022. Rebecca primarily provides medication management services with light, supportive therapy. Rebecca’s philosophy centers around the principles of active listening, thoughtful inquiry, and collaborative partnership with her clients. This dialogue forms the foundation upon which she builds unique and personalized treatment plans that cater to each client’s specific needs.
(615) 805-6102 View (615) 805-6102
Photo of Megan Steinmetz, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Megan Steinmetz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Mount Juliet, TN 37122
Taking the first step towards well-being can feel daunting. I am here to make the process as comfortable as possible by providing a safe, inclusive space that promotes healing. Throughout our time together, I will strive to understand your unique experiences and goals as we collaborate to develop your treatment plan.
Taking the first step towards well-being can feel daunting. I am here to make the process as comfortable as possible by providing a safe, inclusive space that promotes healing. Throughout our time together, I will strive to understand your unique experiences and goals as we collaborate to develop your treatment plan.
(615) 576-8514 View (615) 576-8514
Photo of Kara Darretta, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kara Darretta
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP
Verified Verified
Mount Juliet, TN 37122
Dr. Kara Darretta is a boardcertified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology from Indiana University, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Valparaiso University, and a Doctor of Nursing Practice from the University of Tennessee Health Science Center, where she was inducted into the Sigma Theta Tau International Honors Society of Nursing. Dr Darretta's experience working with individuals of all ages spans anxiety and mood disorders, ADHD, PTSD, thought disorders, substance abuse, and personality disorders. She also has experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings.
Dr. Kara Darretta is a boardcertified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology from Indiana University, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Valparaiso University, and a Doctor of Nursing Practice from the University of Tennessee Health Science Center, where she was inducted into the Sigma Theta Tau International Honors Society of Nursing. Dr Darretta's experience working with individuals of all ages spans anxiety and mood disorders, ADHD, PTSD, thought disorders, substance abuse, and personality disorders. She also has experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings.
(615) 645-2065 View (615) 645-2065
Photo of Mandy Kay Gentry, MSN,  PMHNP-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mandy Kay Gentry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-
Verified Verified
Mount Juliet, TN 37122
Mandy Kay Gentry is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Tennessee who has been practicing since 2017. She earned her Associate Degree in Nursing from Northwest Mississippi Community College and her Master of Science in Nursing with a specialty in PMHNP from University of Mississippi Medical Center. Mandy worked inpatient psychiatry 20112018 as an RN in adult acute psychiatry, detox, dual diagnosis, geriatrics, child/adolescent, and ECT. She has worked in private practice since 2017 focusing on medication management, supportive psychotherapy, and holistic approaches.
Mandy Kay Gentry is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Tennessee who has been practicing since 2017. She earned her Associate Degree in Nursing from Northwest Mississippi Community College and her Master of Science in Nursing with a specialty in PMHNP from University of Mississippi Medical Center. Mandy worked inpatient psychiatry 20112018 as an RN in adult acute psychiatry, detox, dual diagnosis, geriatrics, child/adolescent, and ECT. She has worked in private practice since 2017 focusing on medication management, supportive psychotherapy, and holistic approaches.
(629) 299-2662 View (629) 299-2662
Photo of Adrienne Hlavati, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Adrienne Hlavati
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Mount Juliet, TN 37122
I have over 20 years of experience working with individuals who are experiencing mental health conditions, in a variety of settings. I have worked with individuals in outpatient clinics as well as emergency crisis services. I approach each person as an individual who has unique experiences and needs. My goal is to help people take charge of their illness and
I have over 20 years of experience working with individuals who are experiencing mental health conditions, in a variety of settings. I have worked with individuals in outpatient clinics as well as emergency crisis services. I approach each person as an individual who has unique experiences and needs. My goal is to help people take charge of their illness and
(629) 209-1957 View (629) 209-1957
Photo of Caleb Gulley, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Caleb Gulley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Mount Juliet, TN 37122
Caleb is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in the medical management of mental illness across the lifespan. He uses an evidence-based, patient-centered approach to treatment. Through assessment of the biological, psychological, social, and spiritual aspects of a condition, he is better able to understand concerns and recommend effective treatment for recovery. The goal is to connect you with the therapies you need to live life more fully.
Caleb is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in the medical management of mental illness across the lifespan. He uses an evidence-based, patient-centered approach to treatment. Through assessment of the biological, psychological, social, and spiritual aspects of a condition, he is better able to understand concerns and recommend effective treatment for recovery. The goal is to connect you with the therapies you need to live life more fully.
(931) 283-2484 View (931) 283-2484
Photo of Stefanie Kreidler, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Stefanie Kreidler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Mount Juliet, TN 37122
My name is Stefanie and I am a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with over 15 years of experience in healthcare. I am passionate about creating a respectful and kind space where you can feel well supported. Throughout my diverse career, I've acquired a robust skill set, blending clinical expertise with a deep understanding of the human experience. Proficient in diagnosing and treating mental health conditions, I believe in the power of empathy and collaboration in the healing process.
My name is Stefanie and I am a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with over 15 years of experience in healthcare. I am passionate about creating a respectful and kind space where you can feel well supported. Throughout my diverse career, I've acquired a robust skill set, blending clinical expertise with a deep understanding of the human experience. Proficient in diagnosing and treating mental health conditions, I believe in the power of empathy and collaboration in the healing process.
(629) 400-8061 View (629) 400-8061
Photo of Gundu Reddy, MD, MBBS, Psychiatrist
Gundu Reddy
Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mount Juliet, TN 37122  (Online Only)
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist 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 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.
(615) 437-4282 View (615) 437-4282

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Kalietta Webb, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse
Kalietta Webb
Psychiatric Nurse, ARNP
Verified Verified
Hendersonville, TN 37075
Kalietta Webb is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Tennessee who has been working in the mental health field for six years. Kalietta has experience in inpatient and outpatient mental health treatment that includes helping all walks of life of all ages with a variety of mental health diagnoses ranging from depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, addictions, psychosis such as schizophrenia, schizoaffective, and substance induced psychosis. She advocates for holistic care for individuals with the collaboration of medication management and therapy.
Kalietta Webb is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Tennessee who has been working in the mental health field for six years. Kalietta has experience in inpatient and outpatient mental health treatment that includes helping all walks of life of all ages with a variety of mental health diagnoses ranging from depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, addictions, psychosis such as schizophrenia, schizoaffective, and substance induced psychosis. She advocates for holistic care for individuals with the collaboration of medication management and therapy.
(615) 821-2216 View (615) 821-2216
Photo of Dr. Patrick Eneje, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Patrick Eneje
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Hendersonville, TN 37075  (Online Only)
Dr. Patrick Eneje is a doctoral-prepared, licensed and board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. He sees patients ages 14 to 65 with psychiatric conditions, including but not limited to PTSD, OCD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, etc. Dr. Eneje's primary practice goal is to provide evidence-based, holistic care by combining psychopharmacology with supportive psychotherapy to enhance each individual’s mental, physical, and emotional state of well-being. He values collaborative relationships and enjoys tailoring care by taking into account one’s unique identity and background.
Dr. Patrick Eneje is a doctoral-prepared, licensed and board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. He sees patients ages 14 to 65 with psychiatric conditions, including but not limited to PTSD, OCD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, etc. Dr. Eneje's primary practice goal is to provide evidence-based, holistic care by combining psychopharmacology with supportive psychotherapy to enhance each individual’s mental, physical, and emotional state of well-being. He values collaborative relationships and enjoys tailoring care by taking into account one’s unique identity and background.
(206) 203-7325 View (206) 203-7325
Photo of Samantha Hopkins, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Samantha Hopkins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Hendersonville, TN 37075  (Online Only)
Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, PTSD, or any other mental health condition, her expertise and experience are at your service.
As a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Samantha is committed to providing top-tier mental health care to individuals of all ages. With a deep understanding of the intricate complexities of mental health, she offers a holistic approach that encompasses medication management, evidenced-based treatments, and unwavering support on the journey to mental well-being.
Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, PTSD, or any other mental health condition, her expertise and experience are at your service.
As a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Samantha is committed to providing top-tier mental health care to individuals of all ages. With a deep understanding of the intricate complexities of mental health, she offers a holistic approach that encompasses medication management, evidenced-based treatments, and unwavering support on the journey to mental well-being.
(615) 552-6186 View (615) 552-6186
Photo of LeTizia Baxter Smith, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
LeTizia Baxter Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hermitage, TN 37076
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 John Lambert, MD, Psychiatrist
John Lambert
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Gallatin, TN 37066
I treat adults with mental health concerns including: Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, Workplace Issues, Marriage Issues.
My primary role as a psychiatrist is to explore the numerous factors that can be involved in mental distress. I have a unique background with training in both Internal Medicine and Psychiatry. These issues often coincide and consideration needs to be given to both. The connection between mind and body is of paramount importance and each treatment needs to be tailored to the individual patient. My practice primarily consists of therapy plus medication management. Medication is often indicated but other treatment options are always willing to be considered for the best interests of the patient.
I treat adults with mental health concerns including: Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, Workplace Issues, Marriage Issues.
My primary role as a psychiatrist is to explore the numerous factors that can be involved in mental distress. I have a unique background with training in both Internal Medicine and Psychiatry. These issues often coincide and consideration needs to be given to both. The connection between mind and body is of paramount importance and each treatment needs to be tailored to the individual patient. My practice primarily consists of therapy plus medication management. Medication is often indicated but other treatment options are always willing to be considered for the best interests of the patient.
(615) 492-3257 View (615) 492-3257
Photo of Jodi Smith - Hendersonville Family Psychiatry, LLC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Hendersonville Family Psychiatry, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Hendersonville, TN 37075
Jodi Smith is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and clinically trained mental health therapist. She is currently accepting patients ages 10+ in her private practice, Hendersonville Family Psychiatry, LLC. Jodi provides psychiatric assessment, diagnosis, and medication management to children, adolescents, and adults. As a medication provider and clinically trained mental health therapist, she has vast experience working with a variety of diagnosis and ages, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, trauma, and PTSD.
Jodi Smith is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and clinically trained mental health therapist. She is currently accepting patients ages 10+ in her private practice, Hendersonville Family Psychiatry, LLC. Jodi provides psychiatric assessment, diagnosis, and medication management to children, adolescents, and adults. As a medication provider and clinically trained mental health therapist, she has vast experience working with a variety of diagnosis and ages, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, trauma, and PTSD.
(615) 903-4442 View (615) 903-4442
Photo of Luis Dulin, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Luis Dulin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hendersonville, TN 37075
Our practice treats mental health conditions across the lifespan including Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, and Addiction Issues.
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.
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.
(615) 433-6334 View (615) 433-6334
Photo of Windle Hogue Morgan - NOVO Healthcare, LLC, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse
NOVO Healthcare, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Hendersonville, TN 37075
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

See more therapy options for Mount Juliet

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.