Bipolar Disorder Psychiatrists in Irving, TX

Photo of Emmanuella Edekobi, MSN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Emmanuella Edekobi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Irving, TX 75038  (Online Only)
Whether you're navigating Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, PTSD, Sleep issues, Bipolar disorder, or other mental health concerns, I am here to collaborate with you on a path towards resilience and recovery.
As a compassionate and dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I am committed to providing personalized care that fosters healing and well-being. With a deep understanding of the challenges individuals face in their mental health journeys, I offer a safe and supportive space for patients seeking guidance and support. My approach centers on empathy, active listening, and evidence-based interventions tailored to each person's unique needs.
Whether you're navigating Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, PTSD, Sleep issues, Bipolar disorder, or other mental health concerns, I am here to collaborate with you on a path towards resilience and recovery.
As a compassionate and dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I am committed to providing personalized care that fosters healing and well-being. With a deep understanding of the challenges individuals face in their mental health journeys, I offer a safe and supportive space for patients seeking guidance and support. My approach centers on empathy, active listening, and evidence-based interventions tailored to each person's unique needs.
(505) 672-7660 View (505) 672-7660
Photo of Hanna Araya - AddisMind PLLC, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
AddisMind PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Irving, TX 75038  (Online Only)
I have a diverse experience working with patient's who struggle with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, autism spectrum disorder and more.
Offering personalized and compassionate service to patients VIRTUALLY, I practice with the belief that every patient is special and needs personalized care. I am dedicated to give the appropriate time, attention, and compassion to my patients with the goal of helping them manage their mental illness well.
I have a diverse experience working with patient's who struggle with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, autism spectrum disorder and more.
Offering personalized and compassionate service to patients VIRTUALLY, I practice with the belief that every patient is special and needs personalized care. I am dedicated to give the appropriate time, attention, and compassion to my patients with the goal of helping them manage their mental illness well.
(214) 307-8661 View (214) 307-8661
Photo of Sheila Johnson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sheila Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Irving, TX 75038
She has experience treating a diverse range of psychiatric conditions, including depression, anxiety, panic attacks, bipolar disorder, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, personality and behavioral disorders, addictions, and more.
Sheila Johnson is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2023. She received her Master of Science in Nursing as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Frontier Nursing University. Sheila takes an empathetic and compassionate approach to patient care. She partners with you to help identify your concerns and provide individual treatment and support that aligns with your goals and values in life. She spends quality time with her patients to get to know them as a person and explore their unique situation.
She has experience treating a diverse range of psychiatric conditions, including depression, anxiety, panic attacks, bipolar disorder, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, personality and behavioral disorders, addictions, and more.
Sheila Johnson is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2023. She received her Master of Science in Nursing as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Frontier Nursing University. Sheila takes an empathetic and compassionate approach to patient care. She partners with you to help identify your concerns and provide individual treatment and support that aligns with your goals and values in life. She spends quality time with her patients to get to know them as a person and explore their unique situation.
(469) 564-5461 View (469) 564-5461
Photo of Innocent Omale - Turning Point Psychiatry & Wellness LLC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Turning Point Psychiatry & Wellness LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Irving, TX 75062  (Online Only)
Are you feeling sad? Are you broken? Do you feel like you are carrying a heavy burden? Come see us @ Turning Point Psychiatry & Wellness, and we can help get you to your TURNING POINT...... Dr. Innocent Omale DNP, has a dual board certification as a Family NP and Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner with years of clinical experience in treating psychiatric disorders. Some of his practice specialties include depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar, schizophrenia, substance abuse and Men's health. Services includes medication management, and counseling based on Christian faith (transpersonal psychiatry).
Are you feeling sad? Are you broken? Do you feel like you are carrying a heavy burden? Come see us @ Turning Point Psychiatry & Wellness, and we can help get you to your TURNING POINT...... Dr. Innocent Omale DNP, has a dual board certification as a Family NP and Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner with years of clinical experience in treating psychiatric disorders. Some of his practice specialties include depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar, schizophrenia, substance abuse and Men's health. Services includes medication management, and counseling based on Christian faith (transpersonal psychiatry).
(682) 260-6713 View (682) 260-6713
Photo of Sylvia Otieno, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sylvia Otieno
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Irving, TX 75038
Sylvia Otieno is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2021. She has a Master's of Science in Nursing. Sylvia provides a safe space coupled with compassionate and non-judgmental mental health care. Her approach is that not one size fits all, and treatment plans are individualized in relationship to everyone's unique needs. Sylvia has experience in treating most mental health problems, including depression, anxiety, Bipolar, ADHD, psychotic disorders, and sleep disorders.
Sylvia Otieno is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2021. She has a Master's of Science in Nursing. Sylvia provides a safe space coupled with compassionate and non-judgmental mental health care. Her approach is that not one size fits all, and treatment plans are individualized in relationship to everyone's unique needs. Sylvia has experience in treating most mental health problems, including depression, anxiety, Bipolar, ADHD, psychotic disorders, and sleep disorders.
(214) 462-3391 View (214) 462-3391
Photo of Kim Tubbs - Whole Life Psychiatry, DNP, PMHNP, BC, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse
Whole Life Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, PMHNP, BC, MSN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Irving, TX 75038
I specialize in working with multiple issues including autism spectrum, behavioral issues, anger, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and bipolar/mood disorders.
Dr. Kim Tubbs, DNP - Whole Life Psychiatry - offering holistic psychiatry, medication management, yoga-based therapy, and energy psychology. I enjoy working with kids, teens, and adults who are ready to get to the bottom of why they are struggling. I take a holistic approach to psychiatry, looking to uncover the root of the problem. Together we will examine the situation and presenting symptoms to determine what course of action will be best. This may include medication, a change in diet, changes in environment, new coping skills, or all of the above. Please be aware that I do NOT prescribe stimulants such as Adderall/Vyvanse.
I specialize in working with multiple issues including autism spectrum, behavioral issues, anger, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and bipolar/mood disorders.
Dr. Kim Tubbs, DNP - Whole Life Psychiatry - offering holistic psychiatry, medication management, yoga-based therapy, and energy psychology. I enjoy working with kids, teens, and adults who are ready to get to the bottom of why they are struggling. I take a holistic approach to psychiatry, looking to uncover the root of the problem. Together we will examine the situation and presenting symptoms to determine what course of action will be best. This may include medication, a change in diet, changes in environment, new coping skills, or all of the above. Please be aware that I do NOT prescribe stimulants such as Adderall/Vyvanse.
(972) 992-7682 View (972) 992-7682
Photo of Arif Mirza - VPP Clinic | Dr Arif Mirza MD, MD, Psychiatrist
VPP Clinic | Dr Arif Mirza MD
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Irving, TX 75063  (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 to VPPclinic.com ... 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 statewide (Austin, Dallas, Fort Worth, Houston, San Antonio). 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 to VPPclinic.com ... 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 statewide (Austin, Dallas, Fort Worth, Houston, San Antonio). Text 469-770-7750 for quick booking assist.
(817) 646-8725 View (817) 646-8725
Photo of Honorine Betah, MSN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Honorine Betah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Irving, TX 75039  (Online Only)
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Honorine and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Washington. I specialize in ADHD, Anger Management, Anxiety, Binge Eating Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Insomnia/Sleep Issues, OCD, PTSD, SAD and Stress Management. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Honorine and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Washington. I specialize in ADHD, Anger Management, Anxiety, Binge Eating Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Insomnia/Sleep Issues, OCD, PTSD, SAD and Stress Management. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
(206) 672-7861 View (206) 672-7861
Jilji Payikkattu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Irving, TX 75063  (Online Only)
Jilji Payikkattu is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (BC-FNP, PMHNP) who has over 17 years of experience. She enjoys providing holistic, compassionate mental, and medical care to clients of all ages. Jilji treats a variety of mental health disorders including depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder I and II, PTSD, and ADHD. Jilji believes in the importance of building an individualized approach to treatment. She graduated from the University of Texas-Arlington with a Master's degree in Nursing. Jiliji focuses on providing the utmost, up-to-date care to her patients.
Jilji Payikkattu is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (BC-FNP, PMHNP) who has over 17 years of experience. She enjoys providing holistic, compassionate mental, and medical care to clients of all ages. Jilji treats a variety of mental health disorders including depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder I and II, PTSD, and ADHD. Jilji believes in the importance of building an individualized approach to treatment. She graduated from the University of Texas-Arlington with a Master's degree in Nursing. Jiliji focuses on providing the utmost, up-to-date care to her patients.
(469) 772-9708 View (469) 772-9708
Photo of Danielle Maskell, APRN (C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Danielle Maskell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN (C
Verified Verified
Irving, TX 75038
Danielle Maskell is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2022. She has an ADN from Dallas County Community College District, a BSN from Grand Canyon University, and an MSN from the University of Texas at Arlington. Danielle has almost 30 years of bedside nursing providing care to people and families at some of their most difficult moments. In addition, life experiences have given her a unique perspective on the difficulties that can be associated with mental illness.
Danielle Maskell is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2022. She has an ADN from Dallas County Community College District, a BSN from Grand Canyon University, and an MSN from the University of Texas at Arlington. Danielle has almost 30 years of bedside nursing providing care to people and families at some of their most difficult moments. In addition, life experiences have given her a unique perspective on the difficulties that can be associated with mental illness.
(469) 620-8249 View (469) 620-8249
Photo of Nicholas Gregory Heyne, MD, Psychiatrist
Nicholas Gregory Heyne
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Irving, TX 75062
I am a triple board-certified, triple fellowship (adult, child/adolescent, addiction, & forensic psychiatry) trained physician. I am an educator to local residency/fellowship programs, as well as to local medical schools and universities. As a doctor of medicine (MD), my aim is to empower my patients through education, therapy, and when appropriate, medication management. My comprehensive background allows me the opportunity to address the struggles and suffering one endures through mental illness in a complete, caring, and evidence-based manner.
I am a triple board-certified, triple fellowship (adult, child/adolescent, addiction, & forensic psychiatry) trained physician. I am an educator to local residency/fellowship programs, as well as to local medical schools and universities. As a doctor of medicine (MD), my aim is to empower my patients through education, therapy, and when appropriate, medication management. My comprehensive background allows me the opportunity to address the struggles and suffering one endures through mental illness in a complete, caring, and evidence-based manner.
(972) 325-5904 View (972) 325-5904
Photo of Maximus Anitube, MD, Psychiatrist
Maximus Anitube
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Irving, TX 75061
I am a Board certified Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatrist. My clinical training and experience is varied across different areas of psychiatry. I am well versed in working with children, Adolescents, and Adults. My practice focuses on a holistic approach to care therefore, I only prescribe medications as needed. My goal is to empower my clients by providing education and support with insight and feedback to help them address their current life challenges.
I am a Board certified Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatrist. My clinical training and experience is varied across different areas of psychiatry. I am well versed in working with children, Adolescents, and Adults. My practice focuses on a holistic approach to care therefore, I only prescribe medications as needed. My goal is to empower my clients by providing education and support with insight and feedback to help them address their current life challenges.
(469) 281-9604 View (469) 281-9604
Photo of Corey Spence, DO, Psychiatrist
Corey Spence
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Irving, TX 75038
Corey Spence is a Psychiatrist in Texas who has been practicing since 2023. He graduated from OSU Medical School and OSU Psychiatry Residency. Corey believes in treating the patient as a whole. In his spare time, Corey enjoys going to concerts, watching movies, and spending time with his cats.
Corey Spence is a Psychiatrist in Texas who has been practicing since 2023. He graduated from OSU Medical School and OSU Psychiatry Residency. Corey believes in treating the patient as a whole. In his spare time, Corey enjoys going to concerts, watching movies, and spending time with his cats.
(214) 299-5859 View (214) 299-5859
Photo of Do Z - MindFirst Behavioral Health, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
MindFirst Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Irving, TX 75062  (Online Only)
Accepting new clients now, same day appointments with weekend availability. We provide Telehealth services, accept self pay and insurances. Welcome to a non-judgmental environment where there is no biasness ! Meet Dorothy PMHNP-BC ( over 14 years experience in health care) who strives to ensure that patients receive comprehensive care that considers their mental and emotional well-being. I'm dedicated and focused on providing you with high-quality initial evaluations, diagnosing, formulating treatment plan and continued medication management. My focus is on pre- teens, teens and adults.
Accepting new clients now, same day appointments with weekend availability. We provide Telehealth services, accept self pay and insurances. Welcome to a non-judgmental environment where there is no biasness ! Meet Dorothy PMHNP-BC ( over 14 years experience in health care) who strives to ensure that patients receive comprehensive care that considers their mental and emotional well-being. I'm dedicated and focused on providing you with high-quality initial evaluations, diagnosing, formulating treatment plan and continued medication management. My focus is on pre- teens, teens and adults.
(469) 972-6384 View (469) 972-6384
Photo of Ronald Fleischmann, MD, Psychiatrist
Ronald Fleischmann
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Irving, TX 75038
Treatment should be individualized according to a patient's problems and special needs. That may include therapy with or without medication. After making a thoughtful diagnosis, you and I would agree on a treatment plan that would help you to achieve relief from your difficulties. By attentively listening to you and asking relevant questions, I would help you resolve the underlying conflicts that contribute to your distress. By understanding the problem I can help you find the tools to find peace from the problems that disturb you.
Treatment should be individualized according to a patient's problems and special needs. That may include therapy with or without medication. After making a thoughtful diagnosis, you and I would agree on a treatment plan that would help you to achieve relief from your difficulties. By attentively listening to you and asking relevant questions, I would help you resolve the underlying conflicts that contribute to your distress. By understanding the problem I can help you find the tools to find peace from the problems that disturb you.
(469) 200-4657 View (469) 200-4657
Photo of Terry Eagan - Dr. Terry Eagan - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry , MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Terry Eagan - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Irving, TX 75014
*** ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS WITH A WAIT TIME OF 1 WEEK OR LESS *** Suffering from depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions can be debilitating and hold you back from leading a happy and balanced life. We invite you to learn more about your treatment options to recover. Call for a Free Confidential assessment and schedule an appointment today.
*** ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS WITH A WAIT TIME OF 1 WEEK OR LESS *** Suffering from depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions can be debilitating and hold you back from leading a happy and balanced life. We invite you to learn more about your treatment options to recover. Call for a Free Confidential assessment and schedule an appointment today.
(972) 382-5179 View (972) 382-5179
Photo of Riz Ahmad - Dr. Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Irving, TX 75038
Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Which emotions stem from genetics and which are rooted in circumstances? How can you even begin to accurately express yourself? How much change is even possible? What if medications change you for the worse? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Which emotions stem from genetics and which are rooted in circumstances? How can you even begin to accurately express yourself? How much change is even possible? What if medications change you for the worse? These uncertainties can leave us in a never ending struggle that keeps us from achieving our true potential. If you’re finally ready to find out answers, then you need Evolve Psychiatry to navigate you out of this maze.
(469) 717-6415 View (469) 717-6415
Photo of Alejandro Perez - Dr Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Irving, TX 75038
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances?
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances?
(214) 865-7127 View (214) 865-7127
Photo of Dr. Charles Ho, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Charles Ho
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Irving, TX 75039
I am a board certified psychiatrist serving child, adolescent, and adult patients, ages 5-50, in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Please visit my website, charleshomd.com, for more information. With an extensive training background, I am prepared to help you or your child address mental health challenges and guide you on a path towards wellness. I aim to provide high quality psychiatric care in a welcoming environment for my patients.
I am a board certified psychiatrist serving child, adolescent, and adult patients, ages 5-50, in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Please visit my website, charleshomd.com, for more information. With an extensive training background, I am prepared to help you or your child address mental health challenges and guide you on a path towards wellness. I aim to provide high quality psychiatric care in a welcoming environment for my patients.
(469) 402-2463 View (469) 402-2463
Photo of Barbara Reed - Barbara Reed - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Barbara Reed - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Irving, TX 75014
Barbara Reed is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and is a member of the American Association of Nurse Practitioners, American Nurses Association, and the American Psychiatric Nurses Association. She graduated from Saint Louis University and has been in the field of psychiatry for the past 11 years. She started her nursing career at SSM Wentzville in Missouri and also worked at Washington University at St Louis in the Department of Psychiatry. She is a former Adjunct Instructor of pre-licensure baccalaureate nursing students.
Barbara Reed is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and is a member of the American Association of Nurse Practitioners, American Nurses Association, and the American Psychiatric Nurses Association. She graduated from Saint Louis University and has been in the field of psychiatry for the past 11 years. She started her nursing career at SSM Wentzville in Missouri and also worked at Washington University at St Louis in the Department of Psychiatry. She is a former Adjunct Instructor of pre-licensure baccalaureate nursing students.
(817) 904-9330 View (817) 904-9330
1
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.