Who Treats Bipolar Disorder?
A wide range of mental health professionals help treat bipolar disorder. Medications are usually prescribed by a psychiatrist (or generally should be — a general practitioner or family physician doesn’t have the extensive background and experience in prescribing these medications on a long-term basis). Psychotherapy to help learn better ways of coping and unlearn unhelpful thinking and patterns of behavior is usually provided by a psychologist or licensed clinical social worker. Usually for an initial diagnosis, it is recommended that you consult a psychologist or psychiatrist. People who are experiencing life-threatening symptoms, such as life-endangering impulsive behavior (e.g., substance abuse, promiscuity or aggressiveness) or psychotic symptoms (e.g., hallucinations or delusions), as well as anyone who is severely suicidal, should be evaluated by a physician. Depending on the level of potential harm to self or others, they should go to an emergency room. Doctors there often will
