Photo of Sheil Jourdain, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Philadelphia, PA
Sheil Jourdain
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103  (Online Only)
Now offering “Virtual ADHD Assessments for All of Pennsylvania". I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I specialize in the treatment of adults with Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Pre-pregnancy and Postpartum issues, Female Sexual Issues, Depression, Medication Management including discontinuation of current medication. I provide motivational talk psychotherapy and I am excited to assist patients decide the best treatment options for their diagnosis. Don't forget to ask about our new, in-office non-medication treatment for depression called "TMS" Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation.
Now offering “Virtual ADHD Assessments for All of Pennsylvania". I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I specialize in the treatment of adults with Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Pre-pregnancy and Postpartum issues, Female Sexual Issues, Depression, Medication Management including discontinuation of current medication. I provide motivational talk psychotherapy and I am excited to assist patients decide the best treatment options for their diagnosis. Don't forget to ask about our new, in-office non-medication treatment for depression called "TMS" Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation.
(484) 370-4655 View (484) 370-4655
Photo of Jenika Miles, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Philadelphia, PA
Jenika Miles
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP , APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19114  (Online Only)
Specializing in: Bipolar, Schizophrenia , Major Depression, Anxiety Disorders, Attention Deficit .
I have a Doctorate in Nursing Practice from Temple University where I graduated with honors. I've worked as a family nurse practitioner caring for at-risk, underserved patient populations in Pennsylvania and New Jersey. When I recognized that there was a great need for psychiatric services in my area, I decided to attend Wilkes University and became a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner to expand upon the clinical care I could provide. My goal is to provide a personalized psychiatric medication management experience for every patient in my practice.
Specializing in: Bipolar, Schizophrenia , Major Depression, Anxiety Disorders, Attention Deficit .
I have a Doctorate in Nursing Practice from Temple University where I graduated with honors. I've worked as a family nurse practitioner caring for at-risk, underserved patient populations in Pennsylvania and New Jersey. When I recognized that there was a great need for psychiatric services in my area, I decided to attend Wilkes University and became a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner to expand upon the clinical care I could provide. My goal is to provide a personalized psychiatric medication management experience for every patient in my practice.
(610) 379-1910 View (610) 379-1910
Photo of Angel Marie Augustin, Psychiatrist in Philadelphia, PA
Angel Marie Augustin
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19104  (Online Only)
I am Dr. Angel Augustin, a board-certified psychiatrist based out of Philadelphia, the city of brotherly love! I completed my psychiatric training at the University of Pennsylvania. I have expertise in the treatment of various psychiatric conditions including depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, low self-esteem, grief, cultural identity, and struggles with life transitions. I believe in taking a holistic and collaborative approach to creating a treatment plan that aligns with your goals.
I am Dr. Angel Augustin, a board-certified psychiatrist based out of Philadelphia, the city of brotherly love! I completed my psychiatric training at the University of Pennsylvania. I have expertise in the treatment of various psychiatric conditions including depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, low self-esteem, grief, cultural identity, and struggles with life transitions. I believe in taking a holistic and collaborative approach to creating a treatment plan that aligns with your goals.
(484) 977-3269 View (484) 977-3269
Photo of Harmony Bay, Psychiatrist in Philadelphia, PA
Harmony Bay
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Harmony Bay is a psychiatry and therapy office that provides primary mental health treatment programs for psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. We offer a clean, bright environment with a calming and positive tone. We offer programs and services for both therapy and psychiatry including individual therapy, group therapy, couples therapy, and medication management.
Harmony Bay is a psychiatry and therapy office that provides primary mental health treatment programs for psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. We offer a clean, bright environment with a calming and positive tone. We offer programs and services for both therapy and psychiatry including individual therapy, group therapy, couples therapy, and medication management.
(267) 507-9526 View (267) 507-9526
Photo of Esther Anyatonwu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Philadelphia, PA
Esther Anyatonwu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP-PMH, NP-BC, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19120  (Online Only)
Esther Anyatonwu DNP-PMHNP-BC, FNP-BC, CRNP has a combined 20 years of nursing experience. Her doctoral graduate degree was obtained from the prestigious Brandman University with a Doctor of Nursing Practice-Psychiatric Mental Health-Board Certified. She also holds a Masters in Nursing degree with a specialty in Family Primary Care Nurse Practitioner. The founder of UMA Behavioral Health, LLC (www.umabehavioralhelathllc.com), she specializes in diagnosing and medication management of psychiatric disorders, including bipolar, depression, anxiety, schizophrenia disorders, and non-stimulant management of ADHD.
Esther Anyatonwu DNP-PMHNP-BC, FNP-BC, CRNP has a combined 20 years of nursing experience. Her doctoral graduate degree was obtained from the prestigious Brandman University with a Doctor of Nursing Practice-Psychiatric Mental Health-Board Certified. She also holds a Masters in Nursing degree with a specialty in Family Primary Care Nurse Practitioner. The founder of UMA Behavioral Health, LLC (www.umabehavioralhelathllc.com), she specializes in diagnosing and medication management of psychiatric disorders, including bipolar, depression, anxiety, schizophrenia disorders, and non-stimulant management of ADHD.
(717) 973-7616 View (717) 973-7616
Photo of Chikodili Obi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Philadelphia, PA
Chikodili Obi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19102  (Online Only)
Specialities: Depression, Anxiety, ADD/ADHD, Anger Management, Sleep disorder, Substance Use / Addiction, Bipolar Disorder, Eating Disorders, OCD, PTSD, Relationship Issues, Trauma, Women's Issues, Stress, Maternal Mental Health, Family Issues, Grief, Loss, and Men's Issues.
Great to meet you! Chikodili Obi is a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who graduated from Wilkes University. She is enthusiastic about providing quality, evidence based psychiatric care across the life span. Chikodili possesses strong clinical skills necessary to establish and build relationships with patients She specializes in treatment of depression, anxiety, ADHD, panic disorder, bipolar disorder, PTSD, borderline personality disorder, psychosis and mood disorders.
Specialities: Depression, Anxiety, ADD/ADHD, Anger Management, Sleep disorder, Substance Use / Addiction, Bipolar Disorder, Eating Disorders, OCD, PTSD, Relationship Issues, Trauma, Women's Issues, Stress, Maternal Mental Health, Family Issues, Grief, Loss, and Men's Issues.
Great to meet you! Chikodili Obi is a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who graduated from Wilkes University. She is enthusiastic about providing quality, evidence based psychiatric care across the life span. Chikodili possesses strong clinical skills necessary to establish and build relationships with patients She specializes in treatment of depression, anxiety, ADHD, panic disorder, bipolar disorder, PTSD, borderline personality disorder, psychosis and mood disorders.
(610) 510-6813 View (610) 510-6813
Photo of Uchenna Joseph Ekeabu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Philadelphia, PA
Uchenna Joseph Ekeabu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DBA, MBA, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19124  (Online Only)
I treat individuals with depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, OCD, ODD, Bipolar disorder, etc.
Central to my professional ethos is the belief in holistic and patient-centered care, recognizing the multifaceted nature of individuals and their unique healthcare needs. By approaching patients with cultural sensitivity and an empathetic demeanor, I aim to foster a therapeutic environment that empowers patients to actively participate in their care decisions. As the cornerstone of my practice, each patient is regarded as a vital partner in their treatment journey. I will invest ample time to comprehend their individual circumstances, listen attentively to their concerns, and collaborate closely to develop tailored treatment plans.
I treat individuals with depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, OCD, ODD, Bipolar disorder, etc.
Central to my professional ethos is the belief in holistic and patient-centered care, recognizing the multifaceted nature of individuals and their unique healthcare needs. By approaching patients with cultural sensitivity and an empathetic demeanor, I aim to foster a therapeutic environment that empowers patients to actively participate in their care decisions. As the cornerstone of my practice, each patient is regarded as a vital partner in their treatment journey. I will invest ample time to comprehend their individual circumstances, listen attentively to their concerns, and collaborate closely to develop tailored treatment plans.
(509) 563-8571 View (509) 563-8571
Photo of Ijeoma Jennifer Hassan, Psychiatrist in Philadelphia, PA
Ijeoma Jennifer Hassan
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19099  (Online Only)
Hi, I am Dr. Ijeoma Hassan is a board certified adult and forensic psychiatrist. I am licensed in NJ, NY, and PA. I combine psychopharmacology along with various modalities of psychotherapy in order to tackle mental health issues.
Hi, I am Dr. Ijeoma Hassan is a board certified adult and forensic psychiatrist. I am licensed in NJ, NY, and PA. I combine psychopharmacology along with various modalities of psychotherapy in order to tackle mental health issues.
(973) 310-5259 View (973) 310-5259
Photo of Dr. Chenhang Zou, Psychiatrist in Philadelphia, PA
Dr. Chenhang Zou
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
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Photo of Paula Bu, Psychiatrist in Philadelphia, PA
Paula Bu
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19102
When depression, anxiety, or trauma overshadows your thoughts, it can be difficult to even imagine how life could be different. Whether you are struggling with work-life balance, relationships, or life transitions, I offer new ways of thinking and a personalized treatment plan that empowers you to live your most meaningful life. I also have significant experience treating college students, members of the LGBTQ+ community, and people of color.
When depression, anxiety, or trauma overshadows your thoughts, it can be difficult to even imagine how life could be different. Whether you are struggling with work-life balance, relationships, or life transitions, I offer new ways of thinking and a personalized treatment plan that empowers you to live your most meaningful life. I also have significant experience treating college students, members of the LGBTQ+ community, and people of color.
(484) 207-6264 View (484) 207-6264
Photo of Samantha O'Donnell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Philadelphia, PA
Samantha O'Donnell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19134
My name is Samantha O'Donnell. I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with 7 years of experience treating teens (12+) and adults. Unlike traditional approaches, I focus on the root cause of your struggles. I find and treat the "why" behind your symptoms to help you achieve lasting mental well-being and lead a happier, healthier life. Mental health is unique to each person, and I believe treatments should be tailored to each person as well! Together, we will work to understand your symptoms by exploring biological, psychological, social, and spiritual factors.
My name is Samantha O'Donnell. I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with 7 years of experience treating teens (12+) and adults. Unlike traditional approaches, I focus on the root cause of your struggles. I find and treat the "why" behind your symptoms to help you achieve lasting mental well-being and lead a happier, healthier life. Mental health is unique to each person, and I believe treatments should be tailored to each person as well! Together, we will work to understand your symptoms by exploring biological, psychological, social, and spiritual factors.
(717) 837-9952 View (717) 837-9952
Photo of michaelsumdpc, Psychiatrist in Philadelphia, PA
michaelsumdpc
Psychiatrist, MD, MA
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19121
My practice focuses on Integrative Medicine, the concept of Mind, Body and Spirit. Mental illness involved the whole body not just the brain. Brian health, thinking habits, diet, exercise, stress response techniques and religious believe all affecting our mood and behavior. If people knows the factors influencing their anxiety, depression, intrusive thoughts and behaviors, they will be in control of their life. Our clinic had a TMS machine, which is FDA approved for depression treatment. TMS also had off labled indications for anxiety, PTSD, addiction, ear ringing, muscle pain, headache ect.
My practice focuses on Integrative Medicine, the concept of Mind, Body and Spirit. Mental illness involved the whole body not just the brain. Brian health, thinking habits, diet, exercise, stress response techniques and religious believe all affecting our mood and behavior. If people knows the factors influencing their anxiety, depression, intrusive thoughts and behaviors, they will be in control of their life. Our clinic had a TMS machine, which is FDA approved for depression treatment. TMS also had off labled indications for anxiety, PTSD, addiction, ear ringing, muscle pain, headache ect.
(267) 361-0250 View (267) 361-0250
Photo of Tranquil & Serene Psychiatry , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Philadelphia, PA
Tranquil & Serene Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19102  (Online Only)
My ideal clients are open to sharing their lives with me. They are open to education and exploring treatment plans that suit their needs. My goal is to provide options for patients to be empowered. We can also use Genesight testing to help determine how your DNA interacts with medications to determine best treatment options. Genesight test results are usually returned within 48 hours, making it a fast efficient tool for selection of medications.
My ideal clients are open to sharing their lives with me. They are open to education and exploring treatment plans that suit their needs. My goal is to provide options for patients to be empowered. We can also use Genesight testing to help determine how your DNA interacts with medications to determine best treatment options. Genesight test results are usually returned within 48 hours, making it a fast efficient tool for selection of medications.
(484) 946-4199 View (484) 946-4199
Photo of Ife Ajuwon, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Philadelphia, PA
Ife Ajuwon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19146
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner passionate about working with clients to improve their quality of life as it relates to their mental health. I believe in empathetic communication, patient advocacy, empowering my patients, and proactive and timely pharmacological and psychitherapeutic interventions. My mission at Psychtitude NP is to treat you in a therapeutic, respectful, and nonjudgmental environment while following evidence-based guidelines as well as clinical experience.
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner passionate about working with clients to improve their quality of life as it relates to their mental health. I believe in empathetic communication, patient advocacy, empowering my patients, and proactive and timely pharmacological and psychitherapeutic interventions. My mission at Psychtitude NP is to treat you in a therapeutic, respectful, and nonjudgmental environment while following evidence-based guidelines as well as clinical experience.
(267) 490-4684 View (267) 490-4684
Photo of Breeze Mental Health, specializing in stress, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Philadelphia, PA
Breeze Mental Health, specializing in stress
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, GAD, expert
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19092
Seeking help is hard. At Breeze getting care is easy. — Immediate openings for new pts — Here skilled clinicians treat the mind while nurturing the spirit. We provide personalized care of the mind & body using a combination of medication, therapy, and coaching. Board certified specialists treat most major mental illnesses and symptoms, including chronic feelings of emptiness, sadness, hopelessness, anxiety, trauma, and sleep problems. Caring clinicians partner with patients to create custom treatment plans with patient-driven goals. First responders, veterans, single parents and shift workers with busy schedules can easily get care.
Seeking help is hard. At Breeze getting care is easy. — Immediate openings for new pts — Here skilled clinicians treat the mind while nurturing the spirit. We provide personalized care of the mind & body using a combination of medication, therapy, and coaching. Board certified specialists treat most major mental illnesses and symptoms, including chronic feelings of emptiness, sadness, hopelessness, anxiety, trauma, and sleep problems. Caring clinicians partner with patients to create custom treatment plans with patient-driven goals. First responders, veterans, single parents and shift workers with busy schedules can easily get care.
(740) 685-4720 View (740) 685-4720

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Nadine Nelson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Philadelphia, PA
Nadine Nelson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Drexel Hill, PA 19026  (Online Only)
I specializes in the field of psychiatry (ages 12+) with a focus on the treatment of ADHD, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, binge eating disorder, substance use disorders, personality disorders and other psychiatric diagnoses.
Hi there, my name is Nadine. I'm a psychiatric nurse practitioner whose mission is to help you live a balanced life. My goal is to meet you where you are in your journey to get to the goals that you have for your own life. I enjoy educating patients, their families, clinicians, and other prescribers on psychopharmacology, lifestyle modifications, nutritional support and pharmacogenomics. I value conservative but effective, medication management paired with thorough evaluation and rapport-building with my clients.
I specializes in the field of psychiatry (ages 12+) with a focus on the treatment of ADHD, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, binge eating disorder, substance use disorders, personality disorders and other psychiatric diagnoses.
Hi there, my name is Nadine. I'm a psychiatric nurse practitioner whose mission is to help you live a balanced life. My goal is to meet you where you are in your journey to get to the goals that you have for your own life. I enjoy educating patients, their families, clinicians, and other prescribers on psychopharmacology, lifestyle modifications, nutritional support and pharmacogenomics. I value conservative but effective, medication management paired with thorough evaluation and rapport-building with my clients.
(484) 642-8279 View (484) 642-8279
Photo of Harmony Bay, Psychiatrist in Philadelphia, PA
Harmony Bay
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Haverford, PA 19041
Harmony Bay Wellness is a psychiatry and therapy office that provides primary mental health treatment programs for psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. We offer a clean, bright environment with a calming and positive tone. We offer programs and services for both therapy and psychiatry including individual therapy, group therapy, couples therapy, and medication management.
Harmony Bay Wellness is a psychiatry and therapy office that provides primary mental health treatment programs for psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. We offer a clean, bright environment with a calming and positive tone. We offer programs and services for both therapy and psychiatry including individual therapy, group therapy, couples therapy, and medication management.
(484) 348-4405 View (484) 348-4405
Photo of Wanda Hedian, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Philadelphia, PA
Wanda Hedian
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Narberth, PA 19072
At Thalia Medical Center we provide psychiatric medication management for substance use disorder, ADHD, anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression ,PTSD, and OCD, amongst other conditions.
I have devoted my time caring for patients as a dual certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner to create an impact in the health and mental well being of individuals in diverse communities. By providing unconditional acceptance of their symptoms in a stigma free-environment and encouraging self-advocacy, I have been able to encourage physical, emotional, and mental health recovery. Through encouragement, acceptance, and advocacy my patients have found recovery that is meaningful and attainable, thereby influencing their personal desire for health promotion and self care.
At Thalia Medical Center we provide psychiatric medication management for substance use disorder, ADHD, anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression ,PTSD, and OCD, amongst other conditions.
I have devoted my time caring for patients as a dual certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner to create an impact in the health and mental well being of individuals in diverse communities. By providing unconditional acceptance of their symptoms in a stigma free-environment and encouraging self-advocacy, I have been able to encourage physical, emotional, and mental health recovery. Through encouragement, acceptance, and advocacy my patients have found recovery that is meaningful and attainable, thereby influencing their personal desire for health promotion and self care.
(484) 559-6809 View (484) 559-6809
Photo of Mo Dattu, MD Psychiatrist, Psychiatrist in Philadelphia, PA
Mo Dattu, MD Psychiatrist
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Bryn Mawr, PA 19010
My aim is to understand you, not just medicate you. My work is in depth, encompassing current and past treatments, relationship and professional history, family history and other important areas of your life. I see patients from age 18 to 60, primarily treat depression and anxiety. My sessions are very interactive utilizing strength based approaches, cognitive therapy, behavioral modification and other modalities. Goals are identified as are obstacles to achieving them. Validated rating scales are used to further explore areas of concern and genetic testing is used when considering best medications.
My aim is to understand you, not just medicate you. My work is in depth, encompassing current and past treatments, relationship and professional history, family history and other important areas of your life. I see patients from age 18 to 60, primarily treat depression and anxiety. My sessions are very interactive utilizing strength based approaches, cognitive therapy, behavioral modification and other modalities. Goals are identified as are obstacles to achieving them. Validated rating scales are used to further explore areas of concern and genetic testing is used when considering best medications.
(717) 775-6189 View (717) 775-6189
Photo of Pottsville Peace of Mind, LLC , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Philadelphia, PA
Pottsville Peace of Mind, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, MBA, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Gladwyne, PA 19035  (Online Only)
Teresa Blatt is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner dedicated to the management of psychiatric patient care addressing the needs of children, adolescents, adults, and seniors. We take a holistic approach and consider the needs of each individual patient. Email the office at pottsvillepeaceofmind.com to make an appointment today.
Teresa Blatt is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner dedicated to the management of psychiatric patient care addressing the needs of children, adolescents, adults, and seniors. We take a holistic approach and consider the needs of each individual patient. Email the office at pottsvillepeaceofmind.com to make an appointment today.
(717) 276-1563 View (717) 276-1563

See more therapy options for Philadelphia

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.