Psychiatrists in Washington
Ample Grace Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP , PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Olympia, WA 98502 (Online Only)
We can assess, diagnose, and treat the following conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, PTSD, ADHD, and adult autism.
We are currently accepting new patients for ADHD Neuropsychological testing. Think you have ADHD? No problem! We offer ADHD Objective Testing that can be used to guide ADHD diagnosis for patients. The testing can also be done at the office and via telehealth. We also offer adult autism assessment and DBT-informed therapy. At Ample Grace Psychiatry, we offer a custom approach for each client! We start with understanding where you are now and your challenges. We help you put a plan in place to help you move forward, and we celebrate your successes along the way. We offer an inclusive, safe space with visits to suit your schedule.
We can assess, diagnose, and treat the following conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, PTSD, ADHD, and adult autism.
We are currently accepting new patients for ADHD Neuropsychological testing. Think you have ADHD? No problem! We offer ADHD Objective Testing that can be used to guide ADHD diagnosis for patients. The testing can also be done at the office and via telehealth. We also offer adult autism assessment and DBT-informed therapy. At Ample Grace Psychiatry, we offer a custom approach for each client! We start with understanding where you are now and your challenges. We help you put a plan in place to help you move forward, and we celebrate your successes along the way. We offer an inclusive, safe space with visits to suit your schedule.
Dr. Sammy Gathiru
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, WA 98499
I treat various psychiatric disorders not limited to: Mood, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar and Trauma-related disorders.
Accepting New Clients! I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides a comprehensive approach to mental health treatment by incorporating psychopharmacology, psychotherapy and alternative treatment modalities to best address the concern at hand. I provide a client-centered method of treatment, which includes educating clients about their diagnosis, treatment options and working with the client to develop a unique treatment plan tailored to fit each individual.
I treat various psychiatric disorders not limited to: Mood, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar and Trauma-related disorders.
Accepting New Clients! I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides a comprehensive approach to mental health treatment by incorporating psychopharmacology, psychotherapy and alternative treatment modalities to best address the concern at hand. I provide a client-centered method of treatment, which includes educating clients about their diagnosis, treatment options and working with the client to develop a unique treatment plan tailored to fit each individual.
My Mind Care, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, DNP , PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tukwila, WA 98188
My experience allows me to treat patients with an array of psychiatric diagnoses and disorders such as schizophrenia, bipolar, anxiety, depression, PTSD, personality disorder, chemical dependency, ADHD, and dementia, more effectively.
Hello, my name is Annabelle Vo. I am a doctorally prepared Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner (ARNP) and a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PNHNP-BC). I received my Bachelor, Master, and Doctorate degrees in Nursing from University of Washington, Seattle, WA. My philosophy of care is to instill hope and assist clients to find purpose in their journey of mental well-being. I strongly believe that committed collaboration between provider and client achieves best outcome.
My experience allows me to treat patients with an array of psychiatric diagnoses and disorders such as schizophrenia, bipolar, anxiety, depression, PTSD, personality disorder, chemical dependency, ADHD, and dementia, more effectively.
Hello, my name is Annabelle Vo. I am a doctorally prepared Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner (ARNP) and a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PNHNP-BC). I received my Bachelor, Master, and Doctorate degrees in Nursing from University of Washington, Seattle, WA. My philosophy of care is to instill hope and assist clients to find purpose in their journey of mental well-being. I strongly believe that committed collaboration between provider and client achieves best outcome.
Farrukh Hashmi
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Richland, WA 99352
Conditions I treat include ADD and ADHD, anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression and many more.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist. I have worked with a diverse group of psychiatric patients for the past twenty years within the Tri-Cities.
Conditions I treat include ADD and ADHD, anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression and many more.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist. I have worked with a diverse group of psychiatric patients for the past twenty years within the Tri-Cities.
Nakyung (Lisa) Choe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98121
I am a Korean American Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with experiences with PTSD, OCD, Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, and other behavioral or mental health issues. As a US Army Veteran myself, I truly believe that the brain and body work together when outside forces such as trauma, stress, or injury occur. The mind will go into a survival mode, which can trigger mental and physical symptoms. Mental illness can come to anyone and at any time.
I am a Korean American Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with experiences with PTSD, OCD, Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, and other behavioral or mental health issues. As a US Army Veteran myself, I truly believe that the brain and body work together when outside forces such as trauma, stress, or injury occur. The mind will go into a survival mode, which can trigger mental and physical symptoms. Mental illness can come to anyone and at any time.
Fatima Omar
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP, BC, ARNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103 (Online Only)
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Fatima Omar and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Washington. I specialize in anxiety, bipolar, depression, insomnia/sleep issues, seasonal affective disorder 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 Fatima Omar and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Washington. I specialize in anxiety, bipolar, depression, insomnia/sleep issues, seasonal affective disorder 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.
Jibran Ahmed
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98125
While my work is in general psychiatry, I have an interest in schizophrenia, depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, and eating disorders.
I'm passionate about the importance of people having easy access to mental healthcare. Before joining the healthcare field, I taught in low-income and underserved communities. Seeing the impact that a lack of mental healthcare had in these areas drove me to return to school and begin a career focused on providing that much-needed care. In my eyes, treatment can significantly increase the quality of life both mentally as well as physically.
While my work is in general psychiatry, I have an interest in schizophrenia, depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, and eating disorders.
I'm passionate about the importance of people having easy access to mental healthcare. Before joining the healthcare field, I taught in low-income and underserved communities. Seeing the impact that a lack of mental healthcare had in these areas drove me to return to school and begin a career focused on providing that much-needed care. In my eyes, treatment can significantly increase the quality of life both mentally as well as physically.
Quality Care Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Puyallup, WA 98373
My practice is open to clients with a variety of psychiatric and mental health disorders to include but not limited to anxiety, depression, mood disorders, bipolar disorders, schizophrenia, OCD, insomnia, and ADHD/ADD.
I am accepting new clients NOW that are cash pay only. New patient appointments are $250 and follow ups are $125 All appointments are Telemedicine. I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with full Prescriptive authority in the state of Washington. I provide psychiatric evaluations, medication management, psycho-education and supportive counseling. My clients have experienced treatment that is client centered, evidence based, and that recognizes the uniqueness of all individuals. I am a compassionate, caring, and empathetic provider.
My practice is open to clients with a variety of psychiatric and mental health disorders to include but not limited to anxiety, depression, mood disorders, bipolar disorders, schizophrenia, OCD, insomnia, and ADHD/ADD.
I am accepting new clients NOW that are cash pay only. New patient appointments are $250 and follow ups are $125 All appointments are Telemedicine. I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with full Prescriptive authority in the state of Washington. I provide psychiatric evaluations, medication management, psycho-education and supportive counseling. My clients have experienced treatment that is client centered, evidence based, and that recognizes the uniqueness of all individuals. I am a compassionate, caring, and empathetic provider.
Anna Long
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103 (Online Only)
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Anna and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Washington. I specialize in Anxiety, Bipolar, College & Graduate Student Mental Health, Depression, Insomnia/Sleep Issues, LGBTQIA+ Care, Life Transitions, Loss/Grief, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Sexual Health/Dysfuntion, Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), Stress Management and Women's Issues. 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 Anna and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Washington. I specialize in Anxiety, Bipolar, College & Graduate Student Mental Health, Depression, Insomnia/Sleep Issues, LGBTQIA+ Care, Life Transitions, Loss/Grief, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Sexual Health/Dysfuntion, Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), Stress Management and Women's Issues. 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.
Three Points Healing
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, RDN, LMHC, LICSW
Verified Verified
Olympia, WA 98506
We currently offer psychiatric assessments, medication management, psychotherapy, ketamine therapy, TMS, nutritional therapy, and electrolyte replenishment! Our providers are well versed in managing schizophrenia, bipolar, depression, PTSD, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, personality disorder, and eating disorders.
Three Points Healing offers new wellness tools such as Psychotherapy, Medication Management, IV Ketamine, Nasal Esketamine, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT), Nutritional Counseling, Medical Nutritional Therapy, Weight loss, Massage Therapy, and Rejuvenating self-care services (Spa Therapy). This holistic approach allows patients to create new connections within their bodies, adopt a positive mindset, and reach a deeper healing state.
We currently offer psychiatric assessments, medication management, psychotherapy, ketamine therapy, TMS, nutritional therapy, and electrolyte replenishment! Our providers are well versed in managing schizophrenia, bipolar, depression, PTSD, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, personality disorder, and eating disorders.
Three Points Healing offers new wellness tools such as Psychotherapy, Medication Management, IV Ketamine, Nasal Esketamine, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT), Nutritional Counseling, Medical Nutritional Therapy, Weight loss, Massage Therapy, and Rejuvenating self-care services (Spa Therapy). This holistic approach allows patients to create new connections within their bodies, adopt a positive mindset, and reach a deeper healing state.
Honorine Betah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103 (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.
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Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Renton, WA 98057
Mental Health Services: Clients (16+ years) are evaluate and treated for various mental health diagnoses that may include but not limited to: Anxiety, Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD), Bipolar, Depression, Insomnia, Mood Disorders, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Substance Use Disorder, Quit Smoking, and Other.
Accepting new clients. As a board psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), I am able to provide a comprehensive mental health assessment and medication management. It is my belief that collaborating with patients and families can result in better outcomes and satisfaction. I am passionate in partnering with clients to develop realistic goals. Typically, appointments may be more frequent until we establish stability. I provide brief supportive therapy and medication management. I look forward to being a partner in your healing journey.
Mental Health Services: Clients (16+ years) are evaluate and treated for various mental health diagnoses that may include but not limited to: Anxiety, Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD), Bipolar, Depression, Insomnia, Mood Disorders, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Substance Use Disorder, Quit Smoking, and Other.
Accepting new clients. As a board psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), I am able to provide a comprehensive mental health assessment and medication management. It is my belief that collaborating with patients and families can result in better outcomes and satisfaction. I am passionate in partnering with clients to develop realistic goals. Typically, appointments may be more frequent until we establish stability. I provide brief supportive therapy and medication management. I look forward to being a partner in your healing journey.
Jasmyne Lyons
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119
My proficiency extends to a broad spectrum of mental health disorders, including depression, anxiety, OCD, panic, bipolar disorder, psychosis, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and PTSD.
I have 15 yeas of combined experience as a Psych NP & therapist. I conduct ADHD/executive function evaluations & Autism screening assessments. I work with all age groups 5 years old and up. I provide accommodation & intervention planning for adults in school or work & for child/adolescents school 504/IEP plans. I do not conduct assessments for SSDI/disability. My services include assessments, medication management, nutrition planning and solution focused behavioral modifications. I firmly believe medication is one element of the solution & holistic, supportive care is essential for overall well-being.
My proficiency extends to a broad spectrum of mental health disorders, including depression, anxiety, OCD, panic, bipolar disorder, psychosis, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and PTSD.
I have 15 yeas of combined experience as a Psych NP & therapist. I conduct ADHD/executive function evaluations & Autism screening assessments. I work with all age groups 5 years old and up. I provide accommodation & intervention planning for adults in school or work & for child/adolescents school 504/IEP plans. I do not conduct assessments for SSDI/disability. My services include assessments, medication management, nutrition planning and solution focused behavioral modifications. I firmly believe medication is one element of the solution & holistic, supportive care is essential for overall well-being.
Aaron Padron
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Aaron Padron, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Tacoma, WA 98402 (Online Only)
Our Telehealth Psychiatric Mental Health Services specializes in the treatment of adults for conditions such as, but not limited to, Anxiety, Depression, Insomnia, Bipolar Disorders, and ADHD.
Hello, we are Insightful Psychiatry, a growing, and innovative Psychiatric office with the goal of providing treatment for mental health problems in the comfort of home. Evening and Weekend appointments are available.
Our Telehealth Psychiatric Mental Health Services specializes in the treatment of adults for conditions such as, but not limited to, Anxiety, Depression, Insomnia, Bipolar Disorders, and ADHD.
Hello, we are Insightful Psychiatry, a growing, and innovative Psychiatric office with the goal of providing treatment for mental health problems in the comfort of home. Evening and Weekend appointments are available.
Albert Quainoo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103 (Online Only)
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Albert and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Washington. I specialize in ADHD, Anger Management/Impulse Disorders, Anxiety, Binge Eating Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Chronic Illness, Depression, College & Graduate Student Mental Health, Insomnia & Sleep Issues, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). 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 Albert and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Washington. I specialize in ADHD, Anger Management/Impulse Disorders, Anxiety, Binge Eating Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Chronic Illness, Depression, College & Graduate Student Mental Health, Insomnia & Sleep Issues, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). 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.
Kimberly Danielle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98107
Welcome to Klarity Wellness. My name is Kimberly Danielle, PMHNP- BC, FNP-C. With training in integrative & functional medicine as well as being double board-certified in Psychiatry and Family Medicine, I bring a unique and comprehensive perspective to mental and physical health care. My expertise allows me to offer an integrated approach to a wide range of conditions, including anxiety, depression, bipolar & mood disorders, PTSD, ADHD, and more. With extensive experience in psychiatry and hospital based medicine, I have developed an expertise in addressing the relationship between mental and physical well-being.
Welcome to Klarity Wellness. My name is Kimberly Danielle, PMHNP- BC, FNP-C. With training in integrative & functional medicine as well as being double board-certified in Psychiatry and Family Medicine, I bring a unique and comprehensive perspective to mental and physical health care. My expertise allows me to offer an integrated approach to a wide range of conditions, including anxiety, depression, bipolar & mood disorders, PTSD, ADHD, and more. With extensive experience in psychiatry and hospital based medicine, I have developed an expertise in addressing the relationship between mental and physical well-being.
Mindful Health Solutions
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98125
I see adults for general psychiatry and is happy to help patients with major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, PTSD, and other conditions.
I take a collaborative approach with my patients. I like to know what my patients’ goals are so I can tailor the treatment to help them achieve their goals as much as possible. Knowing what’s important to my patients helps me know what treatments to recommend or when to suggest a change to the treatment. I find that patients experience the most success if they are open to talking about their treatment options.
I see adults for general psychiatry and is happy to help patients with major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, PTSD, and other conditions.
I take a collaborative approach with my patients. I like to know what my patients’ goals are so I can tailor the treatment to help them achieve their goals as much as possible. Knowing what’s important to my patients helps me know what treatments to recommend or when to suggest a change to the treatment. I find that patients experience the most success if they are open to talking about their treatment options.
Christina Vaughn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98101 (Online Only)
I specialize in assessing and treating anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, OCD, PTSD and other psychiatric issues.
Prior to meeting with me, you will complete intake paperwork regarding practice policies and your health history. This information will be reviewed during your initial assessment. In most instances medication will be prescribed following the initial assessment when indicated. I will work with you to develop a plan of care that is individualized to incorporate your preferences and develop interventions to help you reach your mental health and overall goals.
I specialize in assessing and treating anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, OCD, PTSD and other psychiatric issues.
Prior to meeting with me, you will complete intake paperwork regarding practice policies and your health history. This information will be reviewed during your initial assessment. In most instances medication will be prescribed following the initial assessment when indicated. I will work with you to develop a plan of care that is individualized to incorporate your preferences and develop interventions to help you reach your mental health and overall goals.
Ogechi Uzomah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98107 (Online Only)
Ogechi is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with rigorous training in providing individualized and holistic care in the specialty areas of child, adolescent and adult psychiatry. She is passionate, dedicated and ensures a non-judgement, confidential, peaceful and safe environment for all clients. She specializes in treating a wide range of psychiatric disorders such as Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, Mood Disorders, and PTSD among others while utilizing evidence based treatment approach.
Ogechi is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with rigorous training in providing individualized and holistic care in the specialty areas of child, adolescent and adult psychiatry. She is passionate, dedicated and ensures a non-judgement, confidential, peaceful and safe environment for all clients. She specializes in treating a wide range of psychiatric disorders such as Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, Mood Disorders, and PTSD among others while utilizing evidence based treatment approach.
Victoria A Wright
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP, FP
Verified Verified
Lacey, WA 98503
I offer Medication management of emotional disorders and psychiatric disorders. I have worked in medicine for nearly 35 years! Family practice, psychiatric medicines, and urgent care. My work history includes critical care at Harborview Medical Center, elsewhere oncology, Native American Tribes, and urgent care on a mobile unit in Central Florida while working with Healthcare for the Homeless. Board-certified in family practice and psychiatric medicines. Also a Doctorate in Nursing Practice.
I offer Medication management of emotional disorders and psychiatric disorders. I have worked in medicine for nearly 35 years! Family practice, psychiatric medicines, and urgent care. My work history includes critical care at Harborview Medical Center, elsewhere oncology, Native American Tribes, and urgent care on a mobile unit in Central Florida while working with Healthcare for the Homeless. Board-certified in family practice and psychiatric medicines. Also a Doctorate in Nursing Practice.
See more therapy options for Washington
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.