Photo of Ana Jimenez, Physician Assistant in Santa Monica, CA
Ana Jimenez
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90401
Exclusively focused on mental health issues, Bonmente treats a myriad of psychiatric conditions, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, sleep disorders, postpartum depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, panic attacks, OCD, and gender dysphoria.
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now Welcoming New Patients!
Exclusively focused on mental health issues, Bonmente treats a myriad of psychiatric conditions, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, sleep disorders, postpartum depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, panic attacks, OCD, and gender dysphoria.
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now Welcoming New Patients!
(310) 579-2145 View (310) 579-2145
Photo of Catalina Villa, Psychiatrist in Santa Monica, CA
Catalina Villa
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403  (Online Only)
Exclusively focused on mental health issues, Bonmente treats a myriad of psychiatric conditions, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, sleep disorders, postpartum depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, panic attacks, OCD, and gender dysphoria.
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
Exclusively focused on mental health issues, Bonmente treats a myriad of psychiatric conditions, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, sleep disorders, postpartum depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, panic attacks, OCD, and gender dysphoria.
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
(213) 516-9953 View (213) 516-9953
Photo of Uchenna Okoye, Psychiatrist in Santa Monica, CA
Uchenna Okoye
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90401  (Online Only)
Exclusively focused on mental health issues, Bonmente treats a myriad of psychiatric conditions, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, sleep disorders, postpartum depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, panic attacks, OCD, and gender dysphoria.
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
Exclusively focused on mental health issues, Bonmente treats a myriad of psychiatric conditions, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, sleep disorders, postpartum depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, panic attacks, OCD, and gender dysphoria.
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
(213) 652-7529 View (213) 652-7529
Photo of Sham Singh, Psychiatrist in Santa Monica, CA
Sham Singh
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90401  (Online Only)
Exclusively focused on mental health issues, Bonmente treats a myriad of psychiatric conditions, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, sleep disorders, postpartum depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, panic attacks, OCD, and gender dysphoria.
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
Exclusively focused on mental health issues, Bonmente treats a myriad of psychiatric conditions, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, sleep disorders, postpartum depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, panic attacks, OCD, and gender dysphoria.
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
(818) 873-3007 View (818) 873-3007
Photo of Mojan Saberi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Santa Monica, CA
Mojan Saberi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, RN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90405
My areas of focus include substance use disorders, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
Are you stuck in what feels like an endless cycle of symptom management and negative self-talk? Do you find yourself feeling like every visit just ends with a new med and you feeling unheard? If you're looking for an experienced professional who is compassionate and is here to understand your unique needs, I am here to help. I have a wealth of knowledge and experience working in the mental health fields of crisis stabilization and outpatient care.
My areas of focus include substance use disorders, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
Are you stuck in what feels like an endless cycle of symptom management and negative self-talk? Do you find yourself feeling like every visit just ends with a new med and you feeling unheard? If you're looking for an experienced professional who is compassionate and is here to understand your unique needs, I am here to help. I have a wealth of knowledge and experience working in the mental health fields of crisis stabilization and outpatient care.
(562) 561-2526 View (562) 561-2526
Photo of Brainpower Wellness Institute, Psychiatrist in Santa Monica, CA
Brainpower Wellness Institute
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90401
Brainpower Wellness Institute is a leading center for children and adolescent psychiatry. We provide comprehensive and compassionate care to children and adolescents ages 5 through 18. Our team of experienced and board-certified psychiatrists and psychiatric nurse practitioners specializes in diagnosing and treating a wide range of mental health disorders, including anxiety disorders, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism spectrum disorder (ASD), bipolar disorder, depression, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), post- traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and tic disorders.
Brainpower Wellness Institute is a leading center for children and adolescent psychiatry. We provide comprehensive and compassionate care to children and adolescents ages 5 through 18. Our team of experienced and board-certified psychiatrists and psychiatric nurse practitioners specializes in diagnosing and treating a wide range of mental health disorders, including anxiety disorders, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism spectrum disorder (ASD), bipolar disorder, depression, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), post- traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and tic disorders.
(805) 552-5878 View (805) 552-5878
Photo of Riz Ahmad, Psychiatrist in Santa Monica, CA
Riz Ahmad
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90404  (Online Only)
Exclusively focused on mental health issues, Bonmente treats a myriad of psychiatric conditions including anxiety, depression, ADHD, sleep disorders, postpartum depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, panic attacks, and OCD.
Bonmente knows asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be.
Exclusively focused on mental health issues, Bonmente treats a myriad of psychiatric conditions including anxiety, depression, ADHD, sleep disorders, postpartum depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, panic attacks, and OCD.
Bonmente knows asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be.
(323) 312-3677 View (323) 312-3677
Photo of Carolina Covarrubias, Psychiatrist in Santa Monica, CA
Carolina Covarrubias
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90402
I have worked with those who represent the full range of mental health issues including Depression, Bipolar disorder, Trauma, Anxiety/OCD, and difficulty with Grief/Loss and Relationship Challenges.
I am a UCLA Board Certified Psychiatrist and Psychotherapist who specializes in providing a holistic approach to mental health. I believe that some people benefit greatly from medications and others may need different treatments to recover, such as supplements, therapy, and lifestyle changes. I pride myself in not over-prescribing medications and I enjoy educating patients and letting them play a part in developing a well rounded treatment plan. The people I treat would tell you that I have a warm and caring personality and that I always have their best interest in mind.
I have worked with those who represent the full range of mental health issues including Depression, Bipolar disorder, Trauma, Anxiety/OCD, and difficulty with Grief/Loss and Relationship Challenges.
I am a UCLA Board Certified Psychiatrist and Psychotherapist who specializes in providing a holistic approach to mental health. I believe that some people benefit greatly from medications and others may need different treatments to recover, such as supplements, therapy, and lifestyle changes. I pride myself in not over-prescribing medications and I enjoy educating patients and letting them play a part in developing a well rounded treatment plan. The people I treat would tell you that I have a warm and caring personality and that I always have their best interest in mind.
(310) 933-5057 View (310) 933-5057
Photo of Peyman Tashkandi, Psychiatrist in Santa Monica, CA
Peyman Tashkandi
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90405
I love helping clients live their best lives. My ideal client is willing to work with me to achieve their goals. I specialize in treating various forms of depression, such as unipolar, bipolar, postpartum, etc., and especially treatment-resistant cases. I also treat anxiety disorders, PTSD, and attention disorders such as ADHD. I primarily treat patients in the age range of 18-65.
I love helping clients live their best lives. My ideal client is willing to work with me to achieve their goals. I specialize in treating various forms of depression, such as unipolar, bipolar, postpartum, etc., and especially treatment-resistant cases. I also treat anxiety disorders, PTSD, and attention disorders such as ADHD. I primarily treat patients in the age range of 18-65.
(424) 459-7441 View (424) 459-7441
Photo of Alan Hanft, Psychiatrist in Santa Monica, CA
Alan Hanft
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90405
My experience includes treating depression, bipolar, anxiety, psychosis, ADHD, and autism.
After college, I attended medical school at McGill University. I then completed a residency in Psychiatry at USC and a fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at Boston Children’s Hospital of Harvard Medical School. After completing these 10 years of training in 1992, I worked mostly for academic centers. I was faculty in the medical schools of Harvard and Tufts universities, and then returned to California where I was faculty at the University of California and USC for many years. For several years I’ve been Board Certified in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, General Adult Psychiatry, and Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry.
My experience includes treating depression, bipolar, anxiety, psychosis, ADHD, and autism.
After college, I attended medical school at McGill University. I then completed a residency in Psychiatry at USC and a fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at Boston Children’s Hospital of Harvard Medical School. After completing these 10 years of training in 1992, I worked mostly for academic centers. I was faculty in the medical schools of Harvard and Tufts universities, and then returned to California where I was faculty at the University of California and USC for many years. For several years I’ve been Board Certified in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, General Adult Psychiatry, and Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry.
(424) 238-3859 View (424) 238-3859
Photo of Dr. Robert Loman, Psychiatrist in Santa Monica, CA
Dr. Robert Loman
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90410  (Online Only)
How you feel matters. The approach used by Dr. Loman utilizes the biological, psychological, and social influences in treatment approach. Dr. Loman has over 10 years of experience in treating various mental health conditions. Conditions treated include: Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, OCD, Bipolar disorder, Schizoaffective Disorder, Personality Disorders, Somatic disorders, Substance Disorders, and Sleep Disorders.
How you feel matters. The approach used by Dr. Loman utilizes the biological, psychological, and social influences in treatment approach. Dr. Loman has over 10 years of experience in treating various mental health conditions. Conditions treated include: Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, OCD, Bipolar disorder, Schizoaffective Disorder, Personality Disorders, Somatic disorders, Substance Disorders, and Sleep Disorders.
(707) 306-8596 View (707) 306-8596
Photo of Dr. Steven Siragusa, Psychiatrist in Santa Monica, CA
Dr. Steven Siragusa
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
I specialize in child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry with a focus on cutting-edge, evidenced-based mental healthcare. I am experienced in the diagnosis and treatment depression, anxiety, ADHD, autism, bipolar, psychosis, substance use, and PTSD. As a child and adolescent psychiatrist, I employ a neurodevelopmental, family-centered treatment approach with shared decision-making and collaboration of care. I employ a variety of psychotherapeutic approaches such as mindfulness, cognitive, and dialectical behavioral therapies which are specifically tailored to each patient's needs and therapeutic goals.
I specialize in child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry with a focus on cutting-edge, evidenced-based mental healthcare. I am experienced in the diagnosis and treatment depression, anxiety, ADHD, autism, bipolar, psychosis, substance use, and PTSD. As a child and adolescent psychiatrist, I employ a neurodevelopmental, family-centered treatment approach with shared decision-making and collaboration of care. I employ a variety of psychotherapeutic approaches such as mindfulness, cognitive, and dialectical behavioral therapies which are specifically tailored to each patient's needs and therapeutic goals.
(323) 375-2497 View (323) 375-2497
Photo of Sham Singh, Psychiatrist in Santa Monica, CA
Sham Singh
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90402
Exclusively focused on mental health issues, Bonmente treats a myriad of psychiatric conditions including anxiety, depression, ADHD, sleep disorders, postpartum depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, panic attacks, OCD, and gender dysphoria.
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now welcoming new patients!
Exclusively focused on mental health issues, Bonmente treats a myriad of psychiatric conditions including anxiety, depression, ADHD, sleep disorders, postpartum depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, panic attacks, OCD, and gender dysphoria.
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now welcoming new patients!
(213) 786-6422 View (213) 786-6422
Photo of Brittnai Johnson, Psychiatric Nurse in Santa Monica, CA
Brittnai Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90401  (Online Only)
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Brittnai and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of California. I specialize in ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar, Anger Management, Depression, Insomnia/Sleep Issues, LGBTQIA+/Gender/Sexuality Topics. Maternal Mental Health, Men's Issues, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Stress Management and Women's Issues. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Brittnai and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of California. I specialize in ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar, Anger Management, Depression, Insomnia/Sleep Issues, LGBTQIA+/Gender/Sexuality Topics. Maternal Mental Health, Men's Issues, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Stress Management and Women's Issues. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
(415) 993-6852 View (415) 993-6852
Photo of Naweed Hayat, Psychiatrist in Santa Monica, CA
Naweed Hayat
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403  (Online Only)
As a board-certified psychiatrist, I specialize in various mental disorders, including depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, insomnia, bipolar disorder, and ADHD.
I approach each individual with a tailored treatment plan rooted in evidence-based medicine. Recognizing the uniqueness of each person, I employ a biopsychosocial model with a holistic perspective, considering biological, psychological, and social factors impacting mental health. By fostering a collaborative therapeutic relationship, I empower clients to explore their challenges, develop coping skills, and achieve their desired outcomes.
As a board-certified psychiatrist, I specialize in various mental disorders, including depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, insomnia, bipolar disorder, and ADHD.
I approach each individual with a tailored treatment plan rooted in evidence-based medicine. Recognizing the uniqueness of each person, I employ a biopsychosocial model with a holistic perspective, considering biological, psychological, and social factors impacting mental health. By fostering a collaborative therapeutic relationship, I empower clients to explore their challenges, develop coping skills, and achieve their desired outcomes.
(831) 204-8593 View (831) 204-8593
Photo of Dr. Heather Mak- Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry, Psychiatrist in Santa Monica, CA
Dr. Heather Mak- Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90404
Dr. Heather Mak is a psychiatrist with experience in helping patients with issues like hyperactivity disorder, anxiety, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
Dr. Heather Mak is a psychiatrist with experience in helping patients with issues like hyperactivity disorder, anxiety, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
(657) 366-5298 View (657) 366-5298
Photo of Samuel I Miles, Psychiatrist in Santa Monica, CA
Samuel I Miles
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Do you want help because you are anxious or depressed? Having problems with relationships? Work? Sleep? Drugs or alcohol? We can work together to find what will work best to resolve your problems. Using a biopsychosocial approach we can plan a treatment program that may include psychotherapy, medication, and other psychosocial interventions. My aim is to work collaboratively with you to find what will work best to resolve the issues which most concern you. Current evidence of what is effective will be an important part of a treatment plan we put together.
Do you want help because you are anxious or depressed? Having problems with relationships? Work? Sleep? Drugs or alcohol? We can work together to find what will work best to resolve your problems. Using a biopsychosocial approach we can plan a treatment program that may include psychotherapy, medication, and other psychosocial interventions. My aim is to work collaboratively with you to find what will work best to resolve the issues which most concern you. Current evidence of what is effective will be an important part of a treatment plan we put together.
(424) 288-7544 View (424) 288-7544
Photo of Dr. Angela Goddard, Psychiatrist in Santa Monica, CA
Dr. Angela Goddard
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
JAN 2024: I am currently accepting new patients. I help adults of all ages work through their problems, including (but not limited to) depression, anxiety, stress, relationship issues, job loss, bereavement, and coping with illness. I am a psychiatrist that also practices psychotherapy and treatment may consist of talk therapy, medications, or both. I offer a free 15-minute phone consultation to determine if I am the right person to help you and to answer your questions.
JAN 2024: I am currently accepting new patients. I help adults of all ages work through their problems, including (but not limited to) depression, anxiety, stress, relationship issues, job loss, bereavement, and coping with illness. I am a psychiatrist that also practices psychotherapy and treatment may consist of talk therapy, medications, or both. I offer a free 15-minute phone consultation to determine if I am the right person to help you and to answer your questions.
(310) 928-9771 View (310) 928-9771
Photo of Emil Soorani MD, Psychiatrist in Santa Monica, CA
Emil Soorani MD
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
I have over 38 yrs of experience using psychopharmacology to treat depression, bi-polar, anxiety, dementias, ADHD, traumatic injuries, PTSD, and complex psychiatric disorders compounded by medical illnesses. I believe a holistic approach to treatment offers optimal outcomes. I also offer home consultations and Concierge Service.
I have over 38 yrs of experience using psychopharmacology to treat depression, bi-polar, anxiety, dementias, ADHD, traumatic injuries, PTSD, and complex psychiatric disorders compounded by medical illnesses. I believe a holistic approach to treatment offers optimal outcomes. I also offer home consultations and Concierge Service.
(424) 294-8980 View (424) 294-8980
Photo of Martina Nankivell, Physician Assistant in Santa Monica, CA
Martina Nankivell
Physician Assistant, PA-C, MPAS
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90401  (Online Only)
Accepting New Patients - Martina is a highly qualified physician assistant with an impressive academic and clinical background. She earned her Master of Medical Science degree from Nova Southeastern University and holds board certifications in both general medicine and psychiatry. Additionally, Martina possesses a Certificate of Added Qualifications in psychiatry, reflecting her commitment to excellence in patient care.
Accepting New Patients - Martina is a highly qualified physician assistant with an impressive academic and clinical background. She earned her Master of Medical Science degree from Nova Southeastern University and holds board certifications in both general medicine and psychiatry. Additionally, Martina possesses a Certificate of Added Qualifications in psychiatry, reflecting her commitment to excellence in patient care.
(424) 766-0961 View (424) 766-0961

See more therapy options for Santa Monica

Bipolar Disorder Psychiatrists

What is the most successful approach to treating bipolar disorder?

Living with bipolar disorder can be challenging, and a number of therapies have been found effective in providing support to patients as they gain the skills to understand and manage the disorder. Family-focused therapy is often helpful for children and teens (the majority of cases develop before age 19); it aims to minimize mood cycling by improving family communication and reducing conflict. It also helps young people navigate the developmental challenges the disorder can create. Cognitive and behavioral therapy (CBT) and variants such as Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)help patients manage the thoughts and feelings that influence bipolar mood swings as well as develop specific behavioral strategies to counteract them.

What happens in therapy for bipolar disorder?

Because the patterns of mood switching and its triggers differ for each person and can change over time, mood tracking or monitoring becomes a basic way patients learn about the nature of their condition. One of the most common features of therapy is finding a workable method of mood monitoring, in which patients track their daily activities and rate their moods, then use the findings to adjust routines accordingly. Patients learn ways of handling the many stresses that arise in life so that they do not trigger mood swings.

What kinds of problems does therapy help with?

Like many other mental health disorders, BPD is heavily influenced by stress; therapy provides skills for coping with stressors of all kinds. Therapy is extremely important for helping individuals identify the situations that may trigger mood switching, so that mood swings can be prevented. Therapy may especially target recognition of the early stages of mood change so that they can be managed. In addition, therapy helps patients deal with the significant amount of turbulence the disorder can create in relationships and in work life.

What is the goal of therapy for bipolar disorder?

Therapy helps patients set up their lives to maintain stability so that their mood isn’t constantly threatened by daily events. Perhaps the first task of therapy is to educate people about the nature of the disorder. At the same time, a primary goal of therapy is to enhance adherence to drug treatment. Extended periods of mood stability can prompt patients to discontinue medication, triggering relapse, while the early phases of manic episodes can feel so energizing that patients stop medication, ushering in full-blown mania and the altered self-perception that can lead to destructive behaviors. Another major goal of therapy is to understand one’s mood patterns so as to minimize both the frequency and intensity of mood cycling.