Family-Based Treatment for Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is a devastating mental health condition characterized by a waxing and waning course, high rates of psychiatric comorbidity, and significant morbidity and early mortality. As such, much research has been devoted to the development and empirical evaluation of effective assessment and treatment. While pharmacotherapy is often critical, adjunctive psychotherapy is also important for further reducing mood symptoms, addressing psychosocial stressors and environmental challenges, and improving medication adherence, circadian rhythms, and overall functioning. This chapter will review the background research and theory, therapy goals and structure, evidence base, assessment, formulation, therapeutic techniques, issues that may arise, and diversity considerations for one evidence-based psychotherapy for bipolar disorder, family-based treatment. The chapter will conclude with a case illustration and recommendations for future research. Specific family-based treatments reviewed include family-focused treatment, child- and family-focused cognitive-behavioral therapy, and psychoeducational psychotherapy.