Beyond Pharmacotherapy for Bipolar Disorder: The Role of Adjunctive Psychological Treatments

Abstract

Recent years have seen increased research attention to psychological interventions as adjuncts to medication treatment of bipolar disorder (BD). Adjunctive psychological treatments are recommended in all major clinical guidelines for BD, and we now know that evidence-based treatment involves both pharmacotherapy and psychological therapy. We provide an overview of what is known about psychological interventions for BD, including the existing evidence base, core content elements of therapy, and emerging innovations. An overarching theme is the patient as a motivated agent in his or her own well-being; we emphasize recovery-oriented treatment goals, self-management approaches, and digital platforms to improve access to these empowering activities. Mental health professionals are encouraged to support their patients' participation in evidence-based psychological therapies as part of a holistic approach to managing BD. [ Psychiatr Ann. 2019;49(9):399–404.]