Cognitive therapy as an adjunct to medication in bipolar disorder

There is increasing support for the use of cognitive behaviour therapy as an adjunct to medication for patients with bipolar disorder.

To explore current psychological models of bipolar disorder, describing the clinical rationale for using cognitive therapy and providing a brief overview of the approach.

Results from outcome studies are discussed.

Preliminary findings indicate that cognitive therapy may be beneficial for patients with bipolar disorder. The collaborative, educational style of cognitive therapy, the use of a stepwise approach and of guided discovery is particularly suitable for patients who wish to take an equal and active role in their therapy.

Randomised, controlled trials of cognitive therapy in bipolar disorder are required to establish the short-term and long-term benefits of therapy, and whether any reported health gain exceeds that of treatment as usual.