Bipolar Disorder Psychiatrists in Louisiana

Photo of Gerren Wilson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Louisiana
Gerren Wilson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
New Orleans, LA 70114
I am a board certified family psychiatric nurse practitioner that services clients across the life span. I am trained in diagnosing and treating numerous mental health disorders such as: depression, anxiety disorders, ADD/ADHD, PTSD, insomnia, psychosis, bipolar disorder, and many others. I work closely with my clients and their therapists to develop a treatment plan best suited to their lives and resources.
I am a board certified family psychiatric nurse practitioner that services clients across the life span. I am trained in diagnosing and treating numerous mental health disorders such as: depression, anxiety disorders, ADD/ADHD, PTSD, insomnia, psychosis, bipolar disorder, and many others. I work closely with my clients and their therapists to develop a treatment plan best suited to their lives and resources.
(504) 273-4426 View (504) 273-4426
Photo of Wronetta Charles, Psychiatric Nurse in Louisiana
Wronetta Charles
Psychiatric Nurse, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
64 Endorsed
Sunset, LA 70584
I specialize in diagnosing and treating common mental health conditions including depression, anxiety, ADD/ADHD, insomnia, psychosis, panic disorder, bipolar disorder, and much more.
I am a board certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am also board certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner. I am highly motivated and passionate about delivering high quality mental health care. I collaborate with a psychiatrist and a variety of other healthcare professionals to ensure the best possible treatment for my clients. My office is located at 1119 Prudhomme Circle, Suite B, in Opelousas, LA. I look forward to working with you. You may reach me at the office at 337-678-0366 or via fax at 337-223-8301. Email: wcharles@mindandbodyconnections.org
I specialize in diagnosing and treating common mental health conditions including depression, anxiety, ADD/ADHD, insomnia, psychosis, panic disorder, bipolar disorder, and much more.
I am a board certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am also board certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner. I am highly motivated and passionate about delivering high quality mental health care. I collaborate with a psychiatrist and a variety of other healthcare professionals to ensure the best possible treatment for my clients. My office is located at 1119 Prudhomme Circle, Suite B, in Opelousas, LA. I look forward to working with you. You may reach me at the office at 337-678-0366 or via fax at 337-223-8301. Email: wcharles@mindandbodyconnections.org
(337) 415-4675 View (337) 415-4675
Photo of Alisa J Willoughby, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Louisiana
Alisa J Willoughby
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Ethel, LA 70730  (Online Only)
I provide compassionate, evidence-based, and practical care through medication management. I begin with a comprehensive evaluation to understand the needs and strengths of each person. We would work collaboratively so that my services are personalized and effective. The care I offer is always individualized and nonjudgemental. I am passionate about providing culturally sensitive care that is gender-affirming, and body-positive. I will bring kindness and clinical expertise to the treatment of a wide variety of conditions including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and substance use disorders.
I provide compassionate, evidence-based, and practical care through medication management. I begin with a comprehensive evaluation to understand the needs and strengths of each person. We would work collaboratively so that my services are personalized and effective. The care I offer is always individualized and nonjudgemental. I am passionate about providing culturally sensitive care that is gender-affirming, and body-positive. I will bring kindness and clinical expertise to the treatment of a wide variety of conditions including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and substance use disorders.
(225) 460-4270 View (225) 460-4270
Photo of Dr. Willa Rose Shields, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Louisiana
Dr. Willa Rose Shields
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Zachary, LA 70791  (Online Only)
Dr. Shields is a trusted culturally diverse, holistic care visionary, public speaker, life coach, telehealth access consultant and behavioral health provider. She is highly regarded for her integrative behavioral health care expertise. Her care provided is based on underpinnings of psychiatric illness or disease. Depression, anxiety, substance abuse, bipolar disorder, ADHD and mood disorders are just a few of the concerns that are addressed. Your healing and wellness is paramount in the process of care.
Dr. Shields is a trusted culturally diverse, holistic care visionary, public speaker, life coach, telehealth access consultant and behavioral health provider. She is highly regarded for her integrative behavioral health care expertise. Her care provided is based on underpinnings of psychiatric illness or disease. Depression, anxiety, substance abuse, bipolar disorder, ADHD and mood disorders are just a few of the concerns that are addressed. Your healing and wellness is paramount in the process of care.
(225) 351-8079 View (225) 351-8079
Photo of Paragon Healthcare & Wellness Plus, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Louisiana
Paragon Healthcare & Wellness Plus, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Slidell, LA 70458
At Paragon Healthcare and Wellness Plus, we treat patients ages 7 and older with diagnoses of Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Mood Disorders, and many others.
Paragon Healthcare and Wellness Plus focuses on ensuring that your mental health needs are our top priority and treated by using the most up to date and evidence-based practice guidelines. Paragon Healthcare and Wellness Plus has a dual board-certified Nurse Practitioner in both Mental Health and Primary Care.
At Paragon Healthcare and Wellness Plus, we treat patients ages 7 and older with diagnoses of Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Mood Disorders, and many others.
Paragon Healthcare and Wellness Plus focuses on ensuring that your mental health needs are our top priority and treated by using the most up to date and evidence-based practice guidelines. Paragon Healthcare and Wellness Plus has a dual board-certified Nurse Practitioner in both Mental Health and Primary Care.
(985) 332-3319 View (985) 332-3319
Photo of Addie Snyder, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Louisiana
Addie Snyder
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carencro, LA 70520
Willow Mental Wellness & Recovery offers outpatient mental health services treating psychiatric disorders, such as, Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder and Substance abuse disorders. We have licensed psychiatric nurse practitioners who offer medication management. Most private insurances accepted. Opioid addiction treatment and Suboxone treatment offered. Now offering in-house Spravato Treatment.
Willow Mental Wellness & Recovery offers outpatient mental health services treating psychiatric disorders, such as, Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder and Substance abuse disorders. We have licensed psychiatric nurse practitioners who offer medication management. Most private insurances accepted. Opioid addiction treatment and Suboxone treatment offered. Now offering in-house Spravato Treatment.
(337) 329-8319 View (337) 329-8319
Photo of Shanda Keaton, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Louisiana
Shanda Keaton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Mandeville, LA 70471
I am trained in diagnosing and treating individuals presenting with various mental health issues including depression, anxiety disorders, adjustment disorders, post-traumatic stress disorders, ADD/ADHD and bipolar disorder.
I am board certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I provide psychiatric assessment, diagnosis, and medication management for adults and adolescents ages 14 to 65. I received my Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing from Capella University. As a registered nurse I have worked in emergency care, cardiac care, and supervision in the Northshore area. I received my Master of Psychiatric Mental Health degree in Nursing from Herzing University and have experience in outpatient and inpatient psychiatry.
I am trained in diagnosing and treating individuals presenting with various mental health issues including depression, anxiety disorders, adjustment disorders, post-traumatic stress disorders, ADD/ADHD and bipolar disorder.
I am board certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I provide psychiatric assessment, diagnosis, and medication management for adults and adolescents ages 14 to 65. I received my Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing from Capella University. As a registered nurse I have worked in emergency care, cardiac care, and supervision in the Northshore area. I received my Master of Psychiatric Mental Health degree in Nursing from Herzing University and have experience in outpatient and inpatient psychiatry.
(985) 336-2202 View (985) 336-2202
Photo of Aldo Mejia, Psychiatrist in Louisiana
Aldo Mejia
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Orleans, LA 70130
Dr. Mejia has comprehensive experience in diagnosing and treating depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety & panic disorders, phobias, psychoses, stress-induced adjustment disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, adult ADD/ADHD, and substance use disorders. He is a bilingual Spanish-speaking physician who provides psychiatric evaluations and medication management with special attention to individual patient needs, including attention to each patient's personal history and their particular concerns about, or fears of, medications. He approaches each client with patience, warmth, understanding, and helpful explanations that facilitate treatment and the patient's own sense of comfort and trust.
Dr. Mejia has comprehensive experience in diagnosing and treating depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety & panic disorders, phobias, psychoses, stress-induced adjustment disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, adult ADD/ADHD, and substance use disorders. He is a bilingual Spanish-speaking physician who provides psychiatric evaluations and medication management with special attention to individual patient needs, including attention to each patient's personal history and their particular concerns about, or fears of, medications. He approaches each client with patience, warmth, understanding, and helpful explanations that facilitate treatment and the patient's own sense of comfort and trust.
(504) 322-3837 View (504) 322-3837
Photo of Anthony Knatt, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Louisiana
Anthony Knatt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Metairie, LA 70001
My name is Anthony Knatt and I am a board-certified family psychiatric nurse practitioner that services patients across the lifespan. I am trained in diagnosing and treating numerous mental health disorders such as ADD/ADHD, adult ADD and ADHD, depression, anxiety disorders, PTSD, insomnia, psychosis, bipolar disorder, and many others. I have extensive knowledge of psychotropic medications and work hard to ensure my patients understand that each treatment plan is individualized to help patients become the best version of themselves.
My name is Anthony Knatt and I am a board-certified family psychiatric nurse practitioner that services patients across the lifespan. I am trained in diagnosing and treating numerous mental health disorders such as ADD/ADHD, adult ADD and ADHD, depression, anxiety disorders, PTSD, insomnia, psychosis, bipolar disorder, and many others. I have extensive knowledge of psychotropic medications and work hard to ensure my patients understand that each treatment plan is individualized to help patients become the best version of themselves.
(504) 788-1147 View (504) 788-1147
Photo of Always Hope LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Louisiana
Always Hope LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PHMNPBC, NP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baton Rouge, LA 70816  (Online Only)
I have been treating patients for a diverse range of diagnoses that include, but not limited to depression, bipolar, anxiety, ADHD/ADD, post-traumatic stress disorder, insomnia, addiction, trauma, and numerous other co-current medical disorders.
I am New York transplant who received his Masters degree as a Nurse Practitioner from South University in Savannah Georgia and then went on to pursue a Doctorate of Nursing Practice at Chamberlain University. I am nationally board certified in Psychiatric/Mental/Behavioral medicine, Family Medicine, and Emergency medicine. I practice in 3 locations Baton Rouge, Metairie and the Prairieville Office. I believe that mental health is the foundation for physical health. Working as a team with the other medical providers, I want to help patients build that strong foundation.
I have been treating patients for a diverse range of diagnoses that include, but not limited to depression, bipolar, anxiety, ADHD/ADD, post-traumatic stress disorder, insomnia, addiction, trauma, and numerous other co-current medical disorders.
I am New York transplant who received his Masters degree as a Nurse Practitioner from South University in Savannah Georgia and then went on to pursue a Doctorate of Nursing Practice at Chamberlain University. I am nationally board certified in Psychiatric/Mental/Behavioral medicine, Family Medicine, and Emergency medicine. I practice in 3 locations Baton Rouge, Metairie and the Prairieville Office. I believe that mental health is the foundation for physical health. Working as a team with the other medical providers, I want to help patients build that strong foundation.
(225) 425-8039 View (225) 425-8039
Photo of Ashlyn Crosby, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Louisiana
Ashlyn Crosby
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, NP
Verified Verified
Book appointments directly at www.louisianapsych.com . Accepting Blue Cross Blue Shield insurance only. All other patients will be considered private pay. Conditions we treat include anxiety, depression, insomnia, ADHD, bipolar and PTSD. See our website for details on ADHD testing. Medication management may include starting new medications or making adjustments to current medications as indicated. We look forward to meeting you.
Book appointments directly at www.louisianapsych.com . Accepting Blue Cross Blue Shield insurance only. All other patients will be considered private pay. Conditions we treat include anxiety, depression, insomnia, ADHD, bipolar and PTSD. See our website for details on ADHD testing. Medication management may include starting new medications or making adjustments to current medications as indicated. We look forward to meeting you.
(225) 230-2736 View (225) 230-2736
Photo of Kayla Seals, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Louisiana
Kayla Seals
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
New Orleans, LA 70115
As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I provide medication management for adolescents and adults with a range of psychiatric conditions, including ADHD/ADD, depression, anxiety disorders, PTSD, substance use disorders, adjustment disorders, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. My approach is compassionate and collaborative, and I strive to build trust and develop authentic relationships with my patients. Most importantly, I am a results-driven clinician. I incorporate the latest evidence-based research into my practice to ensure that you receive the most effective care.
As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I provide medication management for adolescents and adults with a range of psychiatric conditions, including ADHD/ADD, depression, anxiety disorders, PTSD, substance use disorders, adjustment disorders, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. My approach is compassionate and collaborative, and I strive to build trust and develop authentic relationships with my patients. Most importantly, I am a results-driven clinician. I incorporate the latest evidence-based research into my practice to ensure that you receive the most effective care.
(504) 910-7372 View (504) 910-7372
Photo of Darrell Youngblood, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Louisiana
Darrell Youngblood
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chalmette, LA 70043
The type of client I envision working with is someone who is struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, and bipolar disorder. Their primary requirement is to have a compassionate provider who can support them in effectively managing their medications. They desire a nonjudgemental and unbiased presence to rely on during their journey.
The type of client I envision working with is someone who is struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, and bipolar disorder. Their primary requirement is to have a compassionate provider who can support them in effectively managing their medications. They desire a nonjudgemental and unbiased presence to rely on during their journey.
(504) 294-8529 View (504) 294-8529
Photo of Katherine Perkins, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Louisiana
Katherine Perkins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, PNP-BC
Verified Verified
Zachary, LA 70791
We evaluate and treat mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, substance abuse and ADHD.
I understand that life can become overwhelming when our mental health is suffering. I also understand that when our mental health is not optimal it can be hard to navigate life. It can affect many areas of our lives including our relationships, employment, sleep and appetite. I believe in treating every patient with dignity and respect, and meeting them where they are. I also believe that listening to our patient's needs is an essential element in developing their personalized treatment plan.
We evaluate and treat mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, substance abuse and ADHD.
I understand that life can become overwhelming when our mental health is suffering. I also understand that when our mental health is not optimal it can be hard to navigate life. It can affect many areas of our lives including our relationships, employment, sleep and appetite. I believe in treating every patient with dignity and respect, and meeting them where they are. I also believe that listening to our patient's needs is an essential element in developing their personalized treatment plan.
(225) 376-2128 View (225) 376-2128
Photo of Alicia Seicshnaydre, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Louisiana
Alicia Seicshnaydre
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Mandeville, LA 70471
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I provide psychiatric assessment, medication management and talk therapy for adults ages 18-65 years. I am trained in diagnosing and treating individuals presenting with various mental health issues including: depression, anxiety disorders, adjustment disorders, post-traumatic stress disorders, bipolar disorders and ADD/ADHD.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I provide psychiatric assessment, medication management and talk therapy for adults ages 18-65 years. I am trained in diagnosing and treating individuals presenting with various mental health issues including: depression, anxiety disorders, adjustment disorders, post-traumatic stress disorders, bipolar disorders and ADD/ADHD.
(985) 231-5103 View (985) 231-5103
Photo of Integrity Mental Health Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Louisiana
Integrity Mental Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Baton Rouge, LA 70827  (Online Only)
The disorders treated are: depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar, behavioral issues, psychosis, and many others.
Integrity Mental Health Services has a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is also certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner. We specialize in psychiatric evaluation and medication management. Safe and effective care is achieved collaboratively between the patient and the psychiatric nurse practitioner. ****Controlled substance are monitored and prescribed upon the providers discretion.**** We are offering TELEHEALTH only.
The disorders treated are: depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar, behavioral issues, psychosis, and many others.
Integrity Mental Health Services has a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is also certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner. We specialize in psychiatric evaluation and medication management. Safe and effective care is achieved collaboratively between the patient and the psychiatric nurse practitioner. ****Controlled substance are monitored and prescribed upon the providers discretion.**** We are offering TELEHEALTH only.
(225) 240-4750 View (225) 240-4750
Photo of Tunya Jack, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Louisiana
Tunya Jack
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baton Rouge, LA 70816
I provide quality, compassionate mental health care to individuals, families, and communities coping with mental conditions/disorders, such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar, insomnia and more, through conducting a comprehensive assessment, medication management and education.
Life has its ups and downs, and sometimes we may feel like things will not improve or consider choosing the option of giving up. Some life experiences may have you feeling unworthy, disconnected, or extremely drained. Those symptoms could inhibit the development of healthy relationships and prevent you from functioning at your highest potential. I am pleased to inform you that help is available and easily accessible through telehealth services. I am capable and willing to establish a trustworthy rapport with you that enhances your life.
I provide quality, compassionate mental health care to individuals, families, and communities coping with mental conditions/disorders, such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar, insomnia and more, through conducting a comprehensive assessment, medication management and education.
Life has its ups and downs, and sometimes we may feel like things will not improve or consider choosing the option of giving up. Some life experiences may have you feeling unworthy, disconnected, or extremely drained. Those symptoms could inhibit the development of healthy relationships and prevent you from functioning at your highest potential. I am pleased to inform you that help is available and easily accessible through telehealth services. I am capable and willing to establish a trustworthy rapport with you that enhances your life.
(225) 460-4250 View (225) 460-4250
Photo of Integrated Behavioral Health, Psychiatrist in Louisiana
Integrated Behavioral Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
New Orleans, LA 70130
I treat patients with a variety of mental health issues, such as Mood Disorders, including Depression and Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, Eating Disorders, OCD, PTSD, and ADHD. I like to work at problems from various angles, which often includes working with patients to assess and treat their physical, emotional, spiritual, and social issues.
I treat patients with a variety of mental health issues, such as Mood Disorders, including Depression and Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, Eating Disorders, OCD, PTSD, and ADHD. I like to work at problems from various angles, which often includes working with patients to assess and treat their physical, emotional, spiritual, and social issues.
(504) 322-3837 View (504) 322-3837
Photo of Ballet Psychiatric Services LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Louisiana
Ballet Psychiatric Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
New Orleans, LA 70114
I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner treating clients throughout the life span. I specialize in diagnosing and treating a variety of mental health disorders including: ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, Schizophrenia etc. My goal is to combine compassion and expertise in support of your mental health journey.
I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner treating clients throughout the life span. I specialize in diagnosing and treating a variety of mental health disorders including: ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, Schizophrenia etc. My goal is to combine compassion and expertise in support of your mental health journey.
(504) 500-5923 View (504) 500-5923
Photo of Primary and Behavioral Healthcare Services, PA, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Louisiana
Primary and Behavioral Healthcare Services, PA
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-BC , PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
New Orleans, LA 70112  (Online Only)
Mental Health Services: Telehealth/at home services, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar/Mood Disorders, Schizophrenia/Psychotic Disorders, Sleep Disorders, ADHD, Eating disorders, Smoking cessation, Behavioral Disorders, Grief / Bereavement Services, Post - Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Hospital Discharges, and more.
Shameca Hudson is a Board- Family and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 8 years of experience. She offers services remotely in LA, HI, VA, and MS. She works at Primary and Behavioral Healthcare Services, P.A. which is an integrated medical clinic with the goal of bridging the gap to your health care needs by providing medical and mental health services under one roof. Where the goal is to improve access to quality and cost-effective health care services in rural, metropolitan, and underserved areas. If your insurance is not listed; services are also available through Headway at headway.co and via Alma at helloalma.com
Mental Health Services: Telehealth/at home services, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar/Mood Disorders, Schizophrenia/Psychotic Disorders, Sleep Disorders, ADHD, Eating disorders, Smoking cessation, Behavioral Disorders, Grief / Bereavement Services, Post - Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Hospital Discharges, and more.
Shameca Hudson is a Board- Family and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 8 years of experience. She offers services remotely in LA, HI, VA, and MS. She works at Primary and Behavioral Healthcare Services, P.A. which is an integrated medical clinic with the goal of bridging the gap to your health care needs by providing medical and mental health services under one roof. Where the goal is to improve access to quality and cost-effective health care services in rural, metropolitan, and underserved areas. If your insurance is not listed; services are also available through Headway at headway.co and via Alma at helloalma.com
(601) 348-9768 View (601) 348-9768

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.