Bipolar Disorder Psychiatrists in Chelan County, WA

Photo of Radiant Path Psychiatry PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Chelan County, WA
Radiant Path Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, CARN-AP
Verified Verified
Wenatchee, WA 98801  (Online Only)
While I have broad experience treating patients across diagnoses, I have expertise and acumen in assisting with anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder.
Accepting New Patients: I’m a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 30 years’ experience in healthcare. I treat Children ages from 8 years old up and Adults with a focus on Psychiatric Medication Management. I take a “start low and go slow” approach to prescribing, paying special attention to medication potency and potential interactions with other medications prescribed by other providers. I also believe “knowledge is power,” so together, we spend time on education and explanation so that you understand the recommendations provided and you are fully comfortable with the treatment plan.
While I have broad experience treating patients across diagnoses, I have expertise and acumen in assisting with anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder.
Accepting New Patients: I’m a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 30 years’ experience in healthcare. I treat Children ages from 8 years old up and Adults with a focus on Psychiatric Medication Management. I take a “start low and go slow” approach to prescribing, paying special attention to medication potency and potential interactions with other medications prescribed by other providers. I also believe “knowledge is power,” so together, we spend time on education and explanation so that you understand the recommendations provided and you are fully comfortable with the treatment plan.
(509) 204-8660 View (509) 204-8660
Photo of Beacon Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Chelan County, WA
Beacon Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Wenatchee, WA 98801  (Online Only)
As a psychiatric provider, I offer a holistic, therapeutic approach to medication management to individuals from age 6-years and older for various mental health concerns, including mood dysregulation (depression, bipolar); anxiety; neurodiversity (ADHD, Autism); LGBTQIA+ related concerns; trauma; psychosis; and more. I empathize with your mental health and medication experiences and concerns, and I offer support, education, and options related to your unique situation. I come to our sessions informed, willing to listen, learn, and work together to achieve your medication and mental wellness goals.
As a psychiatric provider, I offer a holistic, therapeutic approach to medication management to individuals from age 6-years and older for various mental health concerns, including mood dysregulation (depression, bipolar); anxiety; neurodiversity (ADHD, Autism); LGBTQIA+ related concerns; trauma; psychosis; and more. I empathize with your mental health and medication experiences and concerns, and I offer support, education, and options related to your unique situation. I come to our sessions informed, willing to listen, learn, and work together to achieve your medication and mental wellness goals.
(509) 297-8758 View (509) 297-8758
Photo of Michael Speed - Mindful Health Solutions, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Chelan County, WA
Michael Speed - Mindful Health Solutions
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Wenatchee, WA 98801
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (DNP, PMHNP) with a specific focus on ADHD, OCD, depression, anxiety, and mood stability management. I have worked with pediatric populations and adults as a PMHNP, along with ages across the lifespan as a registered nurse, with most of my RN time working on a pediatric inpatient psych unit.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (DNP, PMHNP) with a specific focus on ADHD, OCD, depression, anxiety, and mood stability management. I have worked with pediatric populations and adults as a PMHNP, along with ages across the lifespan as a registered nurse, with most of my RN time working on a pediatric inpatient psych unit.
(206) 339-5411 View (206) 339-5411
Photo of Mindful Health Solutions, Psychiatrist in Chelan County, WA
Mindful Health Solutions
Psychiatrist, DO, DABPN
Verified Verified
Wenatchee, WA 98801
Come see us at Mindful Health Solutions. Each treatment plan is customized to the individual, not just the diagnosis. Our treatment goal is the least medications needed to target specific goals, and optimize personal functionality and well-being. We promise to listen, treat you like an integral part of the treatment team and collaborate towards a plan that is best suited for your needs. All care is secured and private. Accepting multiple insurance carriers. Mindful Health now features Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation in Wenatchee, WA.
Come see us at Mindful Health Solutions. Each treatment plan is customized to the individual, not just the diagnosis. Our treatment goal is the least medications needed to target specific goals, and optimize personal functionality and well-being. We promise to listen, treat you like an integral part of the treatment team and collaborate towards a plan that is best suited for your needs. All care is secured and private. Accepting multiple insurance carriers. Mindful Health now features Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation in Wenatchee, WA.
(509) 584-4476 View (509) 584-4476
Photo of Sharon Clifner, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Chelan County, WA
Sharon Clifner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Wenatchee, WA 98807
I believe healing and recovery are possible for many mental health conditions. Other mental health concerns can be effectively managed so that you can lead a more fulfilling, and productive life. So many people struggle alone not knowing who to turn to for help with depression, anxiety, trauma, and severe attention deficits that impair success in life. As an empathetic listener and compassionate provider, I can help you in a very sensitive and confidential manner both online and in person with the issues that you are struggling with so that you may achieve a happier more joy filled life.
I believe healing and recovery are possible for many mental health conditions. Other mental health concerns can be effectively managed so that you can lead a more fulfilling, and productive life. So many people struggle alone not knowing who to turn to for help with depression, anxiety, trauma, and severe attention deficits that impair success in life. As an empathetic listener and compassionate provider, I can help you in a very sensitive and confidential manner both online and in person with the issues that you are struggling with so that you may achieve a happier more joy filled life.
(360) 614-2145 View (360) 614-2145
Photo of Dao Nguyen, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Chelan County, WA
Dao Nguyen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Ardenvoir, WA 98811  (Online Only)
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Dao and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Washington. I specialize in Anxiety, Depression and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. 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 Dao and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Washington. I specialize in Anxiety, Depression and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
(206) 258-6233 View (206) 258-6233
Photo of Aragon Mental Health, Psychiatric Nurse in Chelan County, WA
Aragon Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
21 Endorsed
Wenatchee, WA 98801
Same day appointments available. No waiting list. Have you ever felt a weight on your heart and mind that seems impossible to lift on your own, preventing you from living your life to the fullest? Do you often find yourself feeling isolated and misunderstood, yearning for someone who can truly understand what you're going through? No one should have to endure such feelings alone. Reach out to our mental health professionals today. Let us navigate this journey towards healing and understanding together. You deserve to live a life free from the burdens of untreated mental health issues.
Same day appointments available. No waiting list. Have you ever felt a weight on your heart and mind that seems impossible to lift on your own, preventing you from living your life to the fullest? Do you often find yourself feeling isolated and misunderstood, yearning for someone who can truly understand what you're going through? No one should have to endure such feelings alone. Reach out to our mental health professionals today. Let us navigate this journey towards healing and understanding together. You deserve to live a life free from the burdens of untreated mental health issues.
(509) 309-0325 View (509) 309-0325
Photo of Maria Cecilia Dulay, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Chelan County, WA
Maria Cecilia Dulay
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Wenatchee, WA 98801  (Online Only)
Now accepting new clients! Mrs. Dulay is a nurse practitioner who has dedicated her practice to caring for clients with psychiatric mental health needs. She has extensive training in various psychiatric settings and ensures that each patient she see's, leaves feeling heard, understood and respected. Mrs. Dulay believes providing care isn’t just about treating symptoms, but also showing kindness along the way, and treating each client as an individual. Mrs. Dulay is a passionate healthcare provider committed to cultivating an atmosphere of comfort and education for her patients.
Now accepting new clients! Mrs. Dulay is a nurse practitioner who has dedicated her practice to caring for clients with psychiatric mental health needs. She has extensive training in various psychiatric settings and ensures that each patient she see's, leaves feeling heard, understood and respected. Mrs. Dulay believes providing care isn’t just about treating symptoms, but also showing kindness along the way, and treating each client as an individual. Mrs. Dulay is a passionate healthcare provider committed to cultivating an atmosphere of comfort and education for her patients.
(425) 225-4384 View (425) 225-4384
Photo of Damaris Aragon, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Chelan County, WA
Damaris Aragon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Wenatchee, WA 98801
Same Day Appointments Available. Have you ever felt a weight on your heart and mind that seems impossible to lift on your own, preventing you from living your life to the fullest? Do you often find yourself feeling isolated and misunderstood, yearning for someone who can truly understand what you're going through? Let my 30 years of nursing experience help you find a solution to your mental health needs.
Same Day Appointments Available. Have you ever felt a weight on your heart and mind that seems impossible to lift on your own, preventing you from living your life to the fullest? Do you often find yourself feeling isolated and misunderstood, yearning for someone who can truly understand what you're going through? Let my 30 years of nursing experience help you find a solution to your mental health needs.
(208) 417-7637 View (208) 417-7637
Photo of Misty Leigh Hinkle, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Chelan County, WA
Misty Leigh Hinkle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wenatchee, WA 98801  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I provide a holistic client-centered approach to treatment including psychiatric diagnosis & medication management across the lifespan for depression, anxiety, trauma/PTSD, autism spectrum disorder, insomnia, bipolar disorder, adjustment disorder, medical-induced mood disorders, substance-induced mood disorder, ADHD, severe mental illness, & SUD.
My name is Misty Hinkle. I am a Board-Certified Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. As I worked in the hospital as an RN I observed those with medical conditions were provided more compassionate treatment than those with mental health & substance misuse disorders. This prompted me to continue my education, enabling me to become an advocate and a voice for those with mental health & substance misuse disorders.
I provide a holistic client-centered approach to treatment including psychiatric diagnosis & medication management across the lifespan for depression, anxiety, trauma/PTSD, autism spectrum disorder, insomnia, bipolar disorder, adjustment disorder, medical-induced mood disorders, substance-induced mood disorder, ADHD, severe mental illness, & SUD.
My name is Misty Hinkle. I am a Board-Certified Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. As I worked in the hospital as an RN I observed those with medical conditions were provided more compassionate treatment than those with mental health & substance misuse disorders. This prompted me to continue my education, enabling me to become an advocate and a voice for those with mental health & substance misuse disorders.
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Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Katie Rose Kern, Psychiatric Nurse in Chelan County, WA
Katie Rose Kern
Psychiatric Nurse, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Renton, WA 98057  (Online Only)
I am accepting new clients. I am a board-certified family psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP), graduating from Oregon Health & Science University in 2008. I provide assessment, diagnosis, brief therapy, and medication management. I work with those 18 years and older with the following conditions: depression, anxiety, panic, trauma, bipolar, obsessions & compulsions, anger and psychotic disorders.
I am accepting new clients. I am a board-certified family psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP), graduating from Oregon Health & Science University in 2008. I provide assessment, diagnosis, brief therapy, and medication management. I work with those 18 years and older with the following conditions: depression, anxiety, panic, trauma, bipolar, obsessions & compulsions, anger and psychotic disorders.
(425) 279-7266 View (425) 279-7266
Photo of Dr. Roberto Montenegro, Psychiatrist in Chelan County, WA
Dr. Roberto Montenegro
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103  (Online Only)
I specialize in addressing a broad spectrum of psychiatric conditions, offering support for concerns such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, behavioral challenges, attention deficit disorders, low self-esteem, "impostor syndrome," and the unique stress of physician burnout.
Accepting new patients in WA, CA, and AK! I'm a board-certified psychiatrist who treats children, adolescents, and adults. I use various treatment approaches, such as therapy, medication management, or a combination of both, to help my patients achieve their mental health goals. I specialize in treating high-stakes professionals and was trained at Yale University and the University of Washington (UW). In addition to my clinical work, I teach and conduct research at the UW School of Medicine and Seattle Children's Hospital. I'm dedicated to providing you with the highest quality care.
I specialize in addressing a broad spectrum of psychiatric conditions, offering support for concerns such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, behavioral challenges, attention deficit disorders, low self-esteem, "impostor syndrome," and the unique stress of physician burnout.
Accepting new patients in WA, CA, and AK! I'm a board-certified psychiatrist who treats children, adolescents, and adults. I use various treatment approaches, such as therapy, medication management, or a combination of both, to help my patients achieve their mental health goals. I specialize in treating high-stakes professionals and was trained at Yale University and the University of Washington (UW). In addition to my clinical work, I teach and conduct research at the UW School of Medicine and Seattle Children's Hospital. I'm dedicated to providing you with the highest quality care.
(206) 202-3435 View (206) 202-3435
Photo of Erin Frame, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Chelan County, WA
Erin Frame
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98188  (Online Only)
I assess and treat many different disorders in children and adolescents, including depression, anxiety, bipolar spectrum disorders, autism spectrum disorders, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, oppositional defiant disorder or other behavioral disorders.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and am licensed as an Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner (ARNP) in Washington State.I have a passion to work with children, teenagers, and their families in order to support and provide guidance to those who are challenged by a mental illness.
I assess and treat many different disorders in children and adolescents, including depression, anxiety, bipolar spectrum disorders, autism spectrum disorders, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, oppositional defiant disorder or other behavioral disorders.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and am licensed as an Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner (ARNP) in Washington State.I have a passion to work with children, teenagers, and their families in order to support and provide guidance to those who are challenged by a mental illness.
(425) 529-5090 x191 View (425) 529-5090 x191
Photo of Intentional Wellness PC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Chelan County, WA
Intentional Wellness PC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMH-NP
Verified Verified
My areas of expertise include: depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, psychosis and insomnia.
Hello! Thank you for reading my profile. I have been a psychiatric nurse practitioner since 2017 however, I have worked in mental health for more than ten years. I have worked in inpatient psychiatric units, psychiatric consult service and forensic setting. My practice goal is to provide excellent psychiatric care to my clients via telehealth. I am most interested in providing holistic care not simply focusing on an illness. I try to provide a warm and receptive environment and believe in working together to provide a viable plan to achieve optimal mental health.
My areas of expertise include: depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, psychosis and insomnia.
Hello! Thank you for reading my profile. I have been a psychiatric nurse practitioner since 2017 however, I have worked in mental health for more than ten years. I have worked in inpatient psychiatric units, psychiatric consult service and forensic setting. My practice goal is to provide excellent psychiatric care to my clients via telehealth. I am most interested in providing holistic care not simply focusing on an illness. I try to provide a warm and receptive environment and believe in working together to provide a viable plan to achieve optimal mental health.
(425) 215-4627 x100 View (425) 215-4627 x100
Photo of Dr. Jade Goodloe, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Chelan County, WA
Dr. Jade Goodloe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Marysville, WA 98270  (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 Salient Health Services PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Chelan County, WA
Salient Health Services PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Akosua, Obeng, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119
I offer client-focused and compassionate mental health treatment for patients of varying ages, from 18 years and above. My area of expertise includes managing clients with Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, PTSD, ADHD, Autism Schizophrenia, and more. My approach to the treatment of mental health illness is a collaborative approach with the patient. I take into consideration my clients' past experiences and treatments, remaining sensitive to the patient’s perspective and including them in the treatment approach. My treatment plans are client specific and tailored to each client’s specific needs and goals.
I offer client-focused and compassionate mental health treatment for patients of varying ages, from 18 years and above. My area of expertise includes managing clients with Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, PTSD, ADHD, Autism Schizophrenia, and more. My approach to the treatment of mental health illness is a collaborative approach with the patient. I take into consideration my clients' past experiences and treatments, remaining sensitive to the patient’s perspective and including them in the treatment approach. My treatment plans are client specific and tailored to each client’s specific needs and goals.
(512) 886-9200 View (512) 886-9200
Amy M Porter
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP , PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
Treating depression, anxiety, insomnia, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and ADHD.
Have you been feeling down, sad or depressed, maybe even having a hard time getting out of bed? Worrying about everything like relationships, work, school and finances? Or maybe you are suffering from a lack of focus or an inability to complete tasks at home, work or school. Reaching out when you are fighting with mental health issues takes courage and you have taken an important first step by reviewing my profile. Don't suffer alone or one more day - call my office and set up a new client evaluation and together we can create a plan to help you feel more happiness, focus and less anxiety on your path to better mental health.
Treating depression, anxiety, insomnia, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and ADHD.
Have you been feeling down, sad or depressed, maybe even having a hard time getting out of bed? Worrying about everything like relationships, work, school and finances? Or maybe you are suffering from a lack of focus or an inability to complete tasks at home, work or school. Reaching out when you are fighting with mental health issues takes courage and you have taken an important first step by reviewing my profile. Don't suffer alone or one more day - call my office and set up a new client evaluation and together we can create a plan to help you feel more happiness, focus and less anxiety on your path to better mental health.
(425) 217-3913 View (425) 217-3913
Photo of Harleen Kang, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Chelan County, WA
Harleen Kang
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98105
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 Stephanie Nagai, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Chelan County, WA
Stephanie Nagai
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.
(425) 215-0944 View (425) 215-0944
Photo of Nakyung (Lisa) Choe, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Chelan County, WA
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.
(206) 207-5133 x1 View (206) 207-5133 x1

See more therapy options for Chelan County

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.