Bipolar disorder can be unpredictable. Periods of depression may alternate with episodes of elevated mood, energy, or irritability. These changes can disrupt work, relationships, and self confidence if untreated. At Cura Mind and Wellness, we help patients across the Houston metro stabilize symptoms and build sustainable routines. In-person visits are available in Richmond, TX, with secure telehealth throughout Houston and Fort Bend County.
Care is led by Vivian Emuobe, MSN, BSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC, a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner experienced in mood disorders, program leadership, and complex medication management.
Understanding bipolar disorder
Bipolar disorder is not “just mood swings.” It involves distinct episodes of depression and mania or hypomania that follow patterns and require structured care.
Depressive episodes may include:
- Persistent sadness or hopelessness,
- Loss of interest in activities,
- Sleep and appetite changes,
- Low energy or slowed thinking,
- Thoughts of worthlessness or suicide.
Manic or hypomanic episodes may include:
- Elevated or irritable mood,
- Decreased need for sleep,
- Racing thoughts, rapid speech,
- Impulsivity with spending, driving, or relationships,
- Grandiosity or unrealistic plans.
There are different types of bipolar disorder:
- Bipolar I Disorder, marked by at least one manic episode, often with depressive episodes.
- Bipolar II Disorder, episodes of depression and hypomania, less severe than full mania but still disruptive.
- Cyclothymic Disorder, long lasting fluctuations in mood that do not reach full criteria for mania or depression but cause distress.
A careful evaluation distinguishes between these and other mood conditions, such as unipolar depression.
Challenges patients in Houston describe
Patients tell us bipolar disorder has caused:
- Starting projects with excitement then abandoning them when energy drops,
- Difficulty keeping jobs because of fluctuating productivity,
- Strained relationships due to irritability or impulsive choices,
- Financial stress after spending during manic phases,
- Fatigue and hopelessness during depressive episodes,
- Fear of relapse even when stable.
The cycle can feel endless, but treatment interrupts it.
Treatment options at Cura Mind and Wellness
Medication management for stability
Medication is the foundation of bipolar treatment. We use mood stabilizers and sometimes antipsychotic medications depending on presentation. Antidepressants may be used cautiously and always with a stabilizer to avoid triggering mania.
For patients with a history of poor response or side effects, pharmacogenomic gene testing is available in Richmond to personalize choices. Dosing and monitoring are careful, with safety and tolerability reviewed at each step.
Psychotherapy for insight and resilience
Therapy helps patients recognize early warning signs, develop coping strategies, and strengthen routines. We use:
- CBT for bipolar disorder, reframing thoughts and behaviors around mood shifts,
- Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy, IPSRT, stabilizing sleep and daily schedules to reduce relapse risk,
- Family focused therapy, improving communication and reducing conflicts that trigger episodes,
- Supportive counseling, helping patients navigate work, school, and relationships in Houston’s fast paced environment.
Whole person strategies
We emphasize lifestyle interventions that reinforce stability:
- Consistent sleep, going to bed and waking at the same time each day,
- Regular activity, exercise reduces stress and helps regulate mood,
- Balanced nutrition, avoiding extremes of caffeine, alcohol, and processed foods,
- Stress management, relaxation and mindfulness techniques,
- Structured routines, building predictability that stabilizes daily life.
Advanced options for treatment resistant cases
When depressive episodes remain severe despite standard care, we may recommend TMS therapy or IV ketamine, both available at our Richmond office. These options are carefully evaluated and integrated into broader treatment plans.
How we evaluate bipolar disorder
- Comprehensive intake, review of history, episode patterns, family risks, and medical factors,
- Mood charting, daily or weekly logs to clarify cycles,
- Validated measures, standardized tools to track severity and monitor change,
- Differential diagnosis, ruling out thyroid disorders, ADHD, trauma, or substance use that mimic symptoms,
- Collaborative goal setting, defining success as fewer hospitalizations, better sleep, more stable work performance, or improved relationships.
Life with bipolar disorder in Houston
Houston’s busy pace, shift work schedules, and traffic can intensify symptoms. We help patients adapt care to real life:
- Telehealth sessions during periods of instability,
- In person check ins in Richmond for medication adjustments or advanced treatments,
- Written relapse prevention plans for stressors like hurricanes, anniversaries, or holiday seasons,
- Coordination with employers or schools when documentation helps maintain stability.
What progress looks like
Progress does not mean never feeling sad or energetic again. It means:
- Fewer severe episodes,
- More consistent sleep and routines,
- Greater awareness of triggers,
- Improved work and school performance,
- Stronger relationships with less conflict,
- Confidence that support is available when early warning signs appear.
FAQs – Bipolar Disorder Treatment in Houston and Richmond
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A thorough evaluation is needed. Bipolar disorder includes episodes of mania or hypomania, while depression alone does not.
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Yes, mood stabilizers are usually the foundation of treatment. Therapy and lifestyle strategies are important complements.
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Therapy helps but is not a substitute for medication. Together they improve long term outcomes.
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Stopping suddenly increases relapse risk. We work with you if adjustments are needed, but consistency is critical.
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Yes. Therapy and medication management are effective virtually. Some advanced treatments like TMS or IV ketamine require in person visits.
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Some patients notice stabilization within weeks. Full improvement often takes months of consistent treatment and monitoring.
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There is no cure, but with treatment, symptoms can be managed effectively, and many patients live full, stable lives.
Why patients choose Cura Mind and Wellness
- Board certified leadership, psychiatric nurse practitioner experienced in bipolar and mood disorders,
- Integrated care, medication management, therapy, gene testing, and advanced options under one practice,
- Patient centered style, shared decision making and clear written plans after each visit,
- Whole person approach, addressing sleep, stress, and daily structure in addition to medication,
- Local access, telehealth throughout Houston, in person support in Richmond.
Take the first step toward stability
Bipolar disorder does not have to control your future. At Cura Mind and Wellness, we provide comprehensive, compassionate care for patients across Houston, with in person support in Richmond. With medication, therapy, and whole person strategies, we help you build a steadier, healthier life.