The perturbed nonlinear Schrödinger equation plays a crucial role in various scientific and technological fields. This equation, an extension of the classical nonlinear Schrödinger equation, incorporates perturbative effects that are essential for modeling real-world phenomena more accurately. In this paper, we investigate the traveling wave solutions of the perturbed nonlinear Schrödinger equation using the bifurcation theory of dynamical systems. Graphical presentations of the phase portrait are provided, revealing the traveling wave solutions under various conditions. By employing the auxiliary equation method, we derive a variety of solutions including periodic, dark, singular and bright optical solitons. To provide comprehensive and clearer depiction of the model’s behavior 2D, contour and 3D graphical representations are offered. We also highlight specific constraint conditions that ensure the presence of these obtained solutions. This study expands the scope of known exact solutions and their stability qualities which is offering an extensive analytical technique which enhances previous research. The novelty of our research lies in its examination of bifurcation analysis and the auxiliary equation method within the context of a perturbed nonlinear Schrödinger wave equation for the first time. By integrating these two perspectives, this paper contributes to establishing the complex dynamics and stability characteristics of soliton solutions under perturbations.