Types of Healthcare Providers/Therapists

There are many types of experts who can help people with bipolar disorder, sometimes called manic depression. It's a good idea to pick someone who is experienced. You should feel comfortable with him or her. You may want to talk with more than one person before making your choice.

Healthcare providers who can help people with bipolar disorder include:

• Psychiatrists - These are medical doctors who specialize in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mental and emotional problems. They can prescribe medicines. A psychiatrist may or may not provide therapies such as "talk therapy." In illnesses such as bipolar disorder, the formal diagnosis and treatment plan usually is made by a psychiatrist.
• Psychologists - These are healthcare professionals with an advanced academic degree called a PhD. Psychologists deal with the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mental and emotional problems. A psychologist usually uses non-medical therapies, such as "talk therapy," to treat bipolar disorder.
• Psychiatric Advanced Practice Nurses - These are registered nurses (RNs) who have completed additional education and training to specialize in psychiatric and mental health care. They can provide talk therapy (psychotherapy) and prescribe medicine.
• Nurse Practitioners (NPs) - These are registered nurses (RNs) who have completed additional courses and special training. Nurse practitioners can work with or without the supervision of a physician. They can help with the diagnosis and treatment of patients. In many states they may write prescriptions.
• Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs) - These are trained and state-licensed social workers. They provide various types of counseling and support.
• Psychopharmacologists - These are medical doctors trained to study the effect of medicine on the mind and behavior.

Next: Discussion Points