Bipolar disorder is a complex mental health condition in which people experience periods of depression, as well as episodes of heightened mood and energy, known as mania or hypomania. Living with bipolar disorder can be challenging, especially without the right diagnosis or support. Whether you’ve been previously diagnosed or are just starting to notice changes in mood, energy, or behaviour, our private psychiatry service can help. Dr McCann offers comprehensive assessments, diagnoses, and ongoing psychiatric care for bipolar disorder and related mental health conditions.
We do not currently offer assessments or treatment for individuals under 16.
These mood changes can have a wide impact, affecting sleep, concentration, decision-making, relationships, and your overall well-being. For some people, episodes may disrupt work or make it difficult to maintain stability in their daily life. Since the condition varies so much from person to person, treatment is most effective when it is tailored to a person's individual needs. Dr McCann takes time to understand each patient’s experiences and goals, and will work with you to develop a treatment plan that combines medical expertise with ongoing support.
Some people experience rapid cycling, where mood episodes change more frequently. There are also subtypes such as bipolar I, bipolar II, and cyclothymia, which may require tailored treatment plans. Bipolar I disorder is where patients experience episodes of depression and mania, with the manic episodes lasting more than a week. These manic episodes can be very intense and can sometimes lead to risky behaviour or decisions that may put the person’s safety at risk.
Bipolar II disorder patients experience periods of depression and hypomania, where the 'high' that they experience is less intense. These hypomanic episodes last for at least four days. Although less severe than manic episodes, these episodes can also be very disruptive to the patient's life. Cyclothymia is a mental health condition in which patient's go through cycles of their mood being up and then down. The change between these cycles is less sudden than in Bipolar I or Bipolar II. This condition is considered to be a less severe form of bipolar disorder.
Psychiatrists play a central role in diagnosing and providing treatment for bipolar disorder, helping patients to stabilise their mood, manage their symptoms, and improve their long-term functioning. Dr McCann offers:
Therapy for bipolar disorder focuses on helping people manage mood swings and build greater stability. Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is one of the most effective approaches. It is a structured talking therapy that looks at current thought patterns and behaviours, helping patients to develop practical coping strategies.
Treatment-resistant bipolar depression can be difficult to overcome. First-line treatments involve therapy and medications. In cases that are very difficult to overcome, a psychiatrist may offer electroconvulsive therapy, or ECT. This is a form of therapy which uses electrical currents to induce a mild form of seizure activity in the brain under the supervision of a medical team. This treatment has been shown to be effective in treating treatment-resistant depression and mania and can be used to treat bipolar disorders.
There are many benefits to effective treatment for bipolar disorder. Patients who are able to manage the changes in their mood cycles can see huge benefits to other areas of their lives. Helping patients through depressive episodes can enable them to function more effectively at work and in their relationships with friends and family. Recovering energy can also help you to better take care of your physical health through a better diet and exercise. This can improve patients’ overall health and well-being.
Ongoing treatment aims to stabilise mood and reduce the highs and lows of bipolar disorder. With the right care, many people are able to manage stress more effectively, build stronger relationships, and enjoy a more stable and fulfilling life.
All bipolar disorder assessments at are carried out by Dr Peter McCann, mental health professional, Consultant Psychiatrist, and Medical Director.
What’s included:
There are many reasons for people with bipolar disorder to choose Dr McCann as their mental health medical provider. He is extremely experienced in managing patients with bipolar disorder; helping them to manage their condition effectively.
Dr Peter McCann is a highly experienced psychiatrist, dually certified in the UK and US, with particular expertise in complex and co-occurring disorders.
Many individuals with bipolar disorder experience overlapping challenges such as trauma, addiction, or anxiety. Dr McCann’s multidisciplinary team supports the full picture of your mental health. His team are experienced in manging related disorders such as anxiety, OCD, as well as dependencies such as drug and alcohol misuse.
Avoid NHS waitlists. Dr McCann offers fast-track appointments, online or in-person, with no referral required. He can help you get the care that you need as quickly as possible.
Dr McCann provides care in a safe and supportive environment, respecting each individual’s lived experience. We help to understand each person's unique circumstances and provide care that is tailored to suit them.
Dr Peter McCann, MBBS, MSc, MRCPsych
Dr McCann is an experienced psychiatrist and an expert in the field of bipolar disorder.
Contact our team to find out more information regarding private medical insurance. Our team is on hand to answer questions and help with anything you may need to provide to your insurer.
We offer flexible appointment options to suit your needs, whether you prefer to meet in person at our private clinic or connect online from anywhere in the UK. However you choose to access support, our commitment remains the same: to provide professional, compassionate, and evidence-based care throughout your treatment journey.
Our team is dedicated to supporting you every step of the way, ensuring that your care is tailored to your individual needs and circumstances. We are here to help you or your loved one manage bipolar disorder, prioritising your mental, physical, and emotional well-being, and providing access to treatment that supports lasting recovery.
If you feel you are struggling with a mental illness or mental health challenges you can begin by self-referring through a phone call or email
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If you're unsure about what support you need or if you have any concerns, we're more than happy to assist you. Whether you’re looking for more information about the services, the types of treatments available, or simply need someone to talk to, don’t hesitate to get in touch.