Psychological Therapies and Bipolar Disorder: A Review of the Evidence

Researchers have assessed various therapeutic approaches in the treatment of bipolar disorder, including psychoeducation, cognitive behavioral therapy, cognitive remediation and functional remediation, family treatment, interpersonal and social rhythm therapy, mindfulness-based interventions, and intensive therapy. The benefits of these treatments vary, with the research literature identifying a wide range of outcomes from relapse prevention to symptom reduction. Yet, there is a clear need for further research to address present discrepancies and limitations. When in the process of intervention planning, clinicians should consider the evidence on treatment outcomes to determine the best treatments to manage client needs. Clinicians should additionally be sensitive to several special considerations. Specifically, clinicians should assess whether certain treatment modalities are appropriate, such as group therapy and technology-based interventions. Furthermore, treatment may need to be modified when comorbid concerns are present or when treating youth clients. In all, the research literature provides helpful insights into the treatment of bipolar disorder which should be used in creating an intervention plan.