Bipolar Disorder Psychiatrists in Longview, WA

Photo of Debra Achenbach, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse
Debra Achenbach
Psychiatric Nurse, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Longview, WA 98632
As a licensed ARNP/PMHNP in Washington and Oregon with a specialty in psychiatry I prescribe medications to assist you in overcoming the challenges you face. I strive to provide a comfortable space where you can explore your concerns with a compassionate and objective other; and access the resilience that I believe lies within us all. Clients see me for issues related to stress and life transition, depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma and bipolar mood disorders. I am accepting new clients.
As a licensed ARNP/PMHNP in Washington and Oregon with a specialty in psychiatry I prescribe medications to assist you in overcoming the challenges you face. I strive to provide a comfortable space where you can explore your concerns with a compassionate and objective other; and access the resilience that I believe lies within us all. Clients see me for issues related to stress and life transition, depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma and bipolar mood disorders. I am accepting new clients.
(360) 747-3434 View (360) 747-3434
Photo of Tamara Chambless, MD, Psychiatrist
Tamara Chambless
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Longview, WA 98632  (Online Only)
I have been practicing psychiatry for over 20 years. I have extensive experience with schizophrenia, Schizoaffective Disorder, Major Depression, Refractory Major Depression, Bipolar Mood D/O, Borderline Personality D/O, Addiction, and Dual Diagnosis. My ideal patient is just one who keeps trying. We will work with you to find the right thing. All I ask is that even on those days you feel like you’re done trying or you want to give up, that you come anyway. That’s when we need to see you the most. Here at TACtelepsychiatry.com we work together until you feel better.
I have been practicing psychiatry for over 20 years. I have extensive experience with schizophrenia, Schizoaffective Disorder, Major Depression, Refractory Major Depression, Bipolar Mood D/O, Borderline Personality D/O, Addiction, and Dual Diagnosis. My ideal patient is just one who keeps trying. We will work with you to find the right thing. All I ask is that even on those days you feel like you’re done trying or you want to give up, that you come anyway. That’s when we need to see you the most. Here at TACtelepsychiatry.com we work together until you feel better.
(949) 990-3579 View (949) 990-3579
Photo of Jade Goodloe, DNP , APRN , PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jade Goodloe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP , APRN , PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Longview, WA 98632  (Online Only)
We are currently welcoming new patients for Telehealth appointments. As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I specialize in the diagnostic assessment, medication management, & therapeutic treatment of Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, OCD, & PTSD. Given my background as an active-duty service member & psychiatry provider, I additionally specialize in military & veteran mental health. I treat adults of all backgrounds, 18 years & older located throughout the state.
We are currently welcoming new patients for Telehealth appointments. As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I specialize in the diagnostic assessment, medication management, & therapeutic treatment of Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, OCD, & PTSD. Given my background as an active-duty service member & psychiatry provider, I additionally specialize in military & veteran mental health. I treat adults of all backgrounds, 18 years & older located throughout the state.
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Photo of Gareth Penta - Well Thought, PLLC, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Well Thought, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Longview, WA 98632
Acknowledging your having a problem and asking for help is hard, and you don't want to wait weeks or months to get the help you need - this can be both frustrating and dangerous! Your Primary Care Provider is great for many of your needs, but for mental health you really want to be seen by someone who specializes in psychiatric care. You want to get the help you need now, and with current changes in laws controlling healthcare delivery it's more important than ever to get established with a provider near you to avoid interruption in your care!
Acknowledging your having a problem and asking for help is hard, and you don't want to wait weeks or months to get the help you need - this can be both frustrating and dangerous! Your Primary Care Provider is great for many of your needs, but for mental health you really want to be seen by someone who specializes in psychiatric care. You want to get the help you need now, and with current changes in laws controlling healthcare delivery it's more important than ever to get established with a provider near you to avoid interruption in your care!
(360) 559-3456 View (360) 559-3456
Photo of Julie Ann Thompson, DNP, APRN, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Julie Ann Thompson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Longview, WA 98632
As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I help clients navigate their feelings and thoughts around the experience of being human. Listening to the client's life goals is the most important aspect of my care. My responsibility is to listen, offer suggestions and advocate for them.
As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I help clients navigate their feelings and thoughts around the experience of being human. Listening to the client's life goals is the most important aspect of my care. My responsibility is to listen, offer suggestions and advocate for them.
(360) 776-6599 View (360) 776-6599
Photo of Olivier Djoumessi, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Olivier Djoumessi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Longview, WA 98632  (Online Only)
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with eight years of healthcare experience. I am dedicated, compassionate, and patient focused. My approach to care combines medication management with supportive therapy, focusing on empowering individuals to overcome personal challenges through a comprehensive and integrative method. I believe in treating the whole person, not just the symptoms. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based therapies, psychoeducation, and motivational interviewing, tailoring each treatment plan to the unique needs of my patients.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with eight years of healthcare experience. I am dedicated, compassionate, and patient focused. My approach to care combines medication management with supportive therapy, focusing on empowering individuals to overcome personal challenges through a comprehensive and integrative method. I believe in treating the whole person, not just the symptoms. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based therapies, psychoeducation, and motivational interviewing, tailoring each treatment plan to the unique needs of my patients.
(425) 475-3638 View (425) 475-3638
Photo of Olivier Djoumessi, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Olivier Djoumessi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Longview, WA 98632  (Online Only)
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with eight years of healthcare experience. I am dedicated, compassionate, and patient focused. My approach to care combines medication management with supportive therapy, focusing on empowering individuals to overcome personal challenges through a comprehensive and integrative method. I believe in treating the whole person, not just the symptoms. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based therapies, psychoeducation, and motivational interviewing, tailoring each treatment plan to the unique needs of my patients.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with eight years of healthcare experience. I am dedicated, compassionate, and patient focused. My approach to care combines medication management with supportive therapy, focusing on empowering individuals to overcome personal challenges through a comprehensive and integrative method. I believe in treating the whole person, not just the symptoms. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based therapies, psychoeducation, and motivational interviewing, tailoring each treatment plan to the unique needs of my patients.
(509) 268-4017 View (509) 268-4017
Photo of Liesel Marie Kanohokula Tower, MSN, PMHNP, AGNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Liesel Marie Kanohokula Tower
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, AGNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Longview, WA 98632  (Online Only)
I use a holistic approach that is rooted in BIPOC / LGBTQIA inclusion and trauma-informed care to bring a well rounded and whole-person philosophy to your treatment.
I use a holistic approach that is rooted in BIPOC / LGBTQIA inclusion and trauma-informed care to bring a well rounded and whole-person philosophy to your treatment.
(360) 858-8385 View (360) 858-8385
Photo of Luke Greene, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Luke Greene
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP
Verified Verified
Longview, WA 98632
As an authentic and personable care provider, Luke’s goal is to make personal local mental health care available for everyone. Luke earned his Master’s degree as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Azusa Pacific University in California in 2012. During this time, he worked for a private mental health facility and for the local VA. Luke has more than ten years of experience providing mental health care in both outpatient and inpatient facilities. He was as an outpatient mental health care provider for the VA center in Bath, New York for over four years.
As an authentic and personable care provider, Luke’s goal is to make personal local mental health care available for everyone. Luke earned his Master’s degree as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Azusa Pacific University in California in 2012. During this time, he worked for a private mental health facility and for the local VA. Luke has more than ten years of experience providing mental health care in both outpatient and inpatient facilities. He was as an outpatient mental health care provider for the VA center in Bath, New York for over four years.
(360) 938-4387 View (360) 938-4387

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Jovel Viloria-Scarlet, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-BC, FPA, Psychiatrist
Jovel Viloria-Scarlet
Psychiatrist, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-BC, FPA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98684
Dr. Jovel Broqueza is a board-certified psychiatric and family practitioner with extensive experience working with a diverse population in healthcare settings since 2012. She is proficient in treating ADHD, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorders, depression, and impulsive disorders in children, adults, and older adults. She optimizes patient care using evidence-based treatments through medication management and counseling, assisting patients to achieve balance and leading them on a healing path. Visit us at Psychewellbeing.com for more details.
Dr. Jovel Broqueza is a board-certified psychiatric and family practitioner with extensive experience working with a diverse population in healthcare settings since 2012. She is proficient in treating ADHD, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorders, depression, and impulsive disorders in children, adults, and older adults. She optimizes patient care using evidence-based treatments through medication management and counseling, assisting patients to achieve balance and leading them on a healing path. Visit us at Psychewellbeing.com for more details.
(360) 903-1829 View (360) 903-1829
Photo of Harleen Kang, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Harleen Kang
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98662
My name is Dr. Harleen Kang, I am a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner practicing out of the great state of Washington. I come with over seven years’ experience in psychiatry and aim to continue providing excellent care to all those seeking help for their mental health. My primary areas of focus are anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, psychosis, PTSD/trauma, life transitions, loss and grief, and adjustment issues. I primarily do medication management with minimal therapy.
My name is Dr. Harleen Kang, I am a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner practicing out of the great state of Washington. I come with over seven years’ experience in psychiatry and aim to continue providing excellent care to all those seeking help for their mental health. My primary areas of focus are anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, psychosis, PTSD/trauma, life transitions, loss and grief, and adjustment issues. I primarily do medication management with minimal therapy.
(360) 995-1668 View (360) 995-1668
Photo of Dr. Bunmi Aborisade, DNP, FNP-, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Bunmi Aborisade
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Tacoma, WA 98402  (Online Only)
Dr. Aborisade (AKA DR. B) is a doctoral-prepared, licensed, dual-board-certified family nurse and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. Dr. Aborisade offers medication management and brief supportive therapy for clients facing ADHD, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Insomnia, Anxiety Disorder, PTSD, Schizophrenia, and more. Dr. Aborisade has worked in diverse areas such as primary care, outpatient psychiatric clinics, and retail.
Dr. Aborisade (AKA DR. B) is a doctoral-prepared, licensed, dual-board-certified family nurse and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. Dr. Aborisade offers medication management and brief supportive therapy for clients facing ADHD, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Insomnia, Anxiety Disorder, PTSD, Schizophrenia, and more. Dr. Aborisade has worked in diverse areas such as primary care, outpatient psychiatric clinics, and retail.
(253) 470-2996 View (253) 470-2996
Photo of Bonnie Lambert, PMHNP, LPC, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Bonnie Lambert
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, LPC, RN
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98660
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 Adrian Davis - Saje Psychiatry , DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Saje Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Tacoma, WA 98409  (Online Only)
Dr. Adrian Davis is a national board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner with training and experience treating patients with psychiatric disorders across the lifespan. She has a strong belief in holistic care utilizing a variety of treatment modalities, including psychotropic medications, TMS therapy, and evidence-based alternative treatments such as nutritional supplementation as well as lifestyle/diet modifications. She specializes in Depression, Anxiety, ADHD/ADD, Bipolar Disorder, OCD, Trauma and PTSD.
Dr. Adrian Davis is a national board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner with training and experience treating patients with psychiatric disorders across the lifespan. She has a strong belief in holistic care utilizing a variety of treatment modalities, including psychotropic medications, TMS therapy, and evidence-based alternative treatments such as nutritional supplementation as well as lifestyle/diet modifications. She specializes in Depression, Anxiety, ADHD/ADD, Bipolar Disorder, OCD, Trauma and PTSD.
(253) 780-0770 View (253) 780-0770
Photo of Amanda P Bailey, LMHC, DNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Amanda P Bailey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, LMHC, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Federal Way, WA 98003
If you are considering starting medication for depression, anxiety, or other mental health concerns, I can help you decide the best course of action, whether it is medication or a different avenue. As a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, I do medication management with adults. I work with a variety of mental health concerns including anxiety, depression and bipolar, as well as mental health treatment with pregnant and postpartum women. I will work with you to determine a plan appropriate for your individual needs, which may include therapy, medication or both.
If you are considering starting medication for depression, anxiety, or other mental health concerns, I can help you decide the best course of action, whether it is medication or a different avenue. As a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, I do medication management with adults. I work with a variety of mental health concerns including anxiety, depression and bipolar, as well as mental health treatment with pregnant and postpartum women. I will work with you to determine a plan appropriate for your individual needs, which may include therapy, medication or both.
(253) 544-3700 View (253) 544-3700
Photo of Dani McLaughlin, DNP, PMHNP, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dani McLaughlin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, ARNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98126
Waitlist for new clients
I have clinical experience with a broad spectrum of disorders including depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, PTSD, insomnia, and bipolar spectrum disorders.
Appointments can be booked on my website www.northwestintegrativepsychiatry.com under the Services tab. About me: My name is Dani McLaughlin and I’m a doctorally-prepared Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I approach treatment from a holistic perspective considering how physical, emotional, spiritual, and social well-being impacts mental illness. I recognize that each individual is unique with different concerns and goals for treatment. I value collaboration and will work alongside you on your journey toward better mental health.
I have clinical experience with a broad spectrum of disorders including depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, PTSD, insomnia, and bipolar spectrum disorders.
Appointments can be booked on my website www.northwestintegrativepsychiatry.com under the Services tab. About me: My name is Dani McLaughlin and I’m a doctorally-prepared Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I approach treatment from a holistic perspective considering how physical, emotional, spiritual, and social well-being impacts mental illness. I recognize that each individual is unique with different concerns and goals for treatment. I value collaboration and will work alongside you on your journey toward better mental health.
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Photo of Ashley Nicole Mabry - Balance Psychiatric Clinic, ARNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Balance Psychiatric Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shelton, WA 98584
Specific diagnoses would include ADHD, anxiety, OCD, depression, PTSD, bipolar, schizophrenia, or schizoaffective.
As a PMHNP-BC in a rural, underserved, small community, I'm passionate about providing medication management services and serving my community. I understand the importance of treating people in a holistic manner, to maintain a balanced state so wellness is achieved. I focus on a “whole patient” approach and “patient-centered care” for better outcomes. For one to live their best life there must be balance in sleep hygiene, diet, and exercise. I strive to help patients reach their best potential, psychiatrically after other options have been exhausted through medication management and education. I look forward to serving my community.
Specific diagnoses would include ADHD, anxiety, OCD, depression, PTSD, bipolar, schizophrenia, or schizoaffective.
As a PMHNP-BC in a rural, underserved, small community, I'm passionate about providing medication management services and serving my community. I understand the importance of treating people in a holistic manner, to maintain a balanced state so wellness is achieved. I focus on a “whole patient” approach and “patient-centered care” for better outcomes. For one to live their best life there must be balance in sleep hygiene, diet, and exercise. I strive to help patients reach their best potential, psychiatrically after other options have been exhausted through medication management and education. I look forward to serving my community.
(360) 926-9293 View (360) 926-9293
Photo of Dr. Dianna Harris (Accepting New Clients), PsyD, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Dianna Harris (Accepting New Clients)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PsyD, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98661
I have successfully helped people reduce anxiety and depression that has only partially been helped through therapy by adding psychiatric medication that is targeted to treat worry, panic, OCD, depression and bipolar symptoms.
Accepting NEW Clients (ages 18-65) as of 11/8/24 for Medication Management (I am not taking clients for therapy). Appointments are available in 2 weeks. Complete the Patient Inquiry Form on my website. You will receive a response the same or next day. My practice is primarily composed of adults struggling with anxiety and depression. I find that people reach out to treatment when excessive worry, low motivation, and negative thinking can lead to feeling less confident in their work, behind on tasks at home, and impacting their relationships. I don't treat ADHD and I don't prescribe controlled substances, such as Xanax for anxiety.
I have successfully helped people reduce anxiety and depression that has only partially been helped through therapy by adding psychiatric medication that is targeted to treat worry, panic, OCD, depression and bipolar symptoms.
Accepting NEW Clients (ages 18-65) as of 11/8/24 for Medication Management (I am not taking clients for therapy). Appointments are available in 2 weeks. Complete the Patient Inquiry Form on my website. You will receive a response the same or next day. My practice is primarily composed of adults struggling with anxiety and depression. I find that people reach out to treatment when excessive worry, low motivation, and negative thinking can lead to feeling less confident in their work, behind on tasks at home, and impacting their relationships. I don't treat ADHD and I don't prescribe controlled substances, such as Xanax for anxiety.
(360) 531-6836 View (360) 531-6836
Photo of Shkeya Bellfield - Greater Minds of America, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Greater Minds of America
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98101  (Online Only)
In envisioning my ideal client as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I imagine someone who is motivated to address their mental health concerns and actively engage in their treatment journey. This client is open-minded, willing to explore different therapeutic modalities, and committed to making positive changes in their life. Their issues might range from mood disorders like depression or anxiety, to more complex conditions such as bipolar disorder or schizophrenia. They might also struggle with issues related to trauma, substance abuse, or interpersonal relationships. I am licensed in NY, AZ, NM, WA, UT, IA, GA, FL, NJ, VA, and MA
In envisioning my ideal client as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I imagine someone who is motivated to address their mental health concerns and actively engage in their treatment journey. This client is open-minded, willing to explore different therapeutic modalities, and committed to making positive changes in their life. Their issues might range from mood disorders like depression or anxiety, to more complex conditions such as bipolar disorder or schizophrenia. They might also struggle with issues related to trauma, substance abuse, or interpersonal relationships. I am licensed in NY, AZ, NM, WA, UT, IA, GA, FL, NJ, VA, and MA
(623) 352-8529 View (623) 352-8529
Photo of Shade Bamigbola - Eikon Psychiatry, PLLC, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Eikon Psychiatry, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tacoma, WA 98402  (Online Only)
In my role as PMHNP-BC, I am trained in the treatment of psychiatric illness of individuals across the lifespan (age 6-65), especially those with adjustment disorders, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), eating disorders, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), psychotic disorders, bipolar disorders and trauma-related disorders. I have practiced with diverse populations across a variety of settings including: Consult-Liaison Psychiatry Service, Eating disorder, School-Based Psychiatry Program and Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatry Outpatient settings.
In my role as PMHNP-BC, I am trained in the treatment of psychiatric illness of individuals across the lifespan (age 6-65), especially those with adjustment disorders, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), eating disorders, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), psychotic disorders, bipolar disorders and trauma-related disorders. I have practiced with diverse populations across a variety of settings including: Consult-Liaison Psychiatry Service, Eating disorder, School-Based Psychiatry Program and Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatry Outpatient settings.
(253) 487-0401 View (253) 487-0401

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Nearby Bipolar Disorder Psychiatrists Searches for Longview

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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.