Bipolar Disorder is a complex mental health condition that necessitates treatment from a qualified bipolar disorder psychiatrist as well as therapists. With the right combination of therapy, medication, and lifestyle adjustments, many individuals with bipolar disorder can lead stable, fulfilling lives, effectively managing their symptoms and achieving long-term wellness. Let’s take a look at the two most commonly diagnosed forms of bipolar disorder.

​In order to be diagnosed with Bipolar 1, a patient must have experienced at least one manic episode lasting for at least seven days, unless hospitalization is required. Manic episodes can be quite frightening and include symptoms such as racing thoughts, sleep deprivation, risky behavior and impulsivity. The mania you experience must be severe enough to cause impairment in your daily functioning.
 
Depressive episodes also are quite common, and this disorder used to be called manic depression. However, while not all patients experience a major depressive episode (lasting at least two weeks), many will. In general, Bipolar 1 is considered the most severe and disruptive of these two main types.

​While Bipolar II tends to be less severe, it still can disrupt your daily life and inhibit you from being able to handle work, school and other obligations, as well as increasing difficulties in your relationships with friends and family.
 
For diagnosis, a person with Bipolar II must have experienced at least one hypomanic episode. This is a less severe manic episode than one experiences with Bipolar I and while the symptoms are similar, they are less severe.
 
While a major depressive episode is not required for Bipolar I diagnosis, this criteria is required for Bipolar II. Depression tends to be more persistent with Bipolar II than with Bipolar I. The mania might be less severe with Bipolar II, but the depression can be equal to or more intense than one experiences with Bipolar I.
 
You often hear people say that Bipolar II is a milder form of the disease, but as a psychiatrist for bipolar disorder, I find that the bouts of depression experienced by Bipolar II patients can be just as debilitating as the intense mania of Bipolar I. Neither disease is easy to handle, and you definitely should not try to self-medicate or self-treat. Professional help truly can guide you to a better mental state that allows you to enjoy an easier and happier life.

Did you know that there are additional types of bipolar disorder? While Bipolar 1 and Bipolar 2 are fairly well-known terms, there are other types, and each is categorized by variations in mood episodes, severity, and duration. Let’s take a look at some of the symptoms of these additional manifestations of bipolar disorder.
 

• Cyclothymic Disorder (Cyclothymia): Marked by periods of hypomanic symptoms and periods of depressive symptoms lasting at least two years (one year in children and adolescents) without meeting the criteria for a full manic or depressive episode.
  
• Bipolar Disorder, Unspecified: This diagnosis is used when a person has symptoms of bipolar disorder that do not fit clearly into the categories of Bipolar I, Bipolar II, or cyclothymic disorder.
  
• Bipolar Disorder Due to Another Medical Condition: Mood disturbances that resemble bipolar symptoms but are caused by a medical condition, such as multiple sclerosis or stroke.
  
• This is why it’s crucial to work with a bipolar psychiatrist, as opposed to just working with a psychologist. A psychiatrist is a medical doctor, and they can assess your overall health and determine if your bipolar symptoms are caused by a medical condition or perhaps any medications you are taking.
  
• Substance/Medication-Induced Bipolar Disorder: Bipolar symptoms (mania, hypomania, or depression) triggered by substance use, medication, or withdrawal from a substance. In this case, working with an addiction psychiatrist can help you manage your substance use disorder, as well as any lingering bipolar symptoms after you’ve completed withdrawal and are in recovery. 

In some cases, the symptoms you experience may be due to another mental health condition. Bipolar disorder can be misdiagnosed due to overlapping symptoms, particularly when it comes to mood changes and emotional dysregulation.
 
For instance, Borderline Personality Disorder can be confused with bipolar disorder due to the rapid mood shifts, emotional instability and impulsivity often seen with borderline patients. Certain symptoms of ADHD and PTSD also might be mistaken for bipolar disorder.
 
Of course, I am often asked how often does ADHD co-occur with bipolar disorder? It’s quite common for people with bipolar disorder to also have ADHD. Bipolar patients also might suffer from PTSD, anxiety, OCD or other disorders. Co-occurring disorders are very common, and your bipolar disorder psychiatrist should provide you with a comprehensive diagnosis that addresses all of your symptoms and disorders.

Bipolar disorder won’t simply go away on its own, you will need to create a treatment plan that helps you manage symptoms. As a bipolar disorder psychiatrist, I recommend seeking psychiatric treatment if you experience any symptoms that interfere with daily life functioning.
 
This is advice I would give to any patient, regardless of their mental health condition. Whether you suffer from anxiety or ADHD, bipolar disorder, depression or PTSD, if these conditions are reducing your enjoyment of life and making it difficult to manage work and school commitments or relationships, please seek treatment.
 
Bipolar disorder is treatable, and there is hope for those suffering from any type of this disorder. A combination of therapy, medications and self-help strategies can make life much easier and even help you avoid the deep depression and manic episodes associated with bipolar disorder.
 
To treat this disorder, you will want to work with a psychiatrist for bipolar disorder as well as a psychologist or therapist that specializes in this disease. A psychiatrist can provide you with a comprehensive diagnosis as well as prescribe medication. A psychologist or therapist cannot prescribe medicines, but they can provide you with different types of beneficial therapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectal behavior therapy.
 
In addition, some lifestyle changes have been shown to reduce the severity of symptoms. Maintaining a regular sleep schedule, eating a balanced diet and ensuring that you have daily exercise can help regulate your mood and reduce stress. Stress is a very common trigger for mood disruption, and proper sleep and exercise can be hugely beneficial.
 
As a psychiatrist for bipolar disorder, I recommend avoiding alcohol, recreational drugs and even caffeine as these can affect mood and interfere with the bipolar medications you are taking. As we meet for your initial diagnosis, be sure to tell me about all of the prescribed medications you take as well as supplements and be honest about your alcohol and drug use.
 
Remember, I am here to help you, not to judge you. I know that many individuals with bipolar disorder and other mental illnesses often self-medicate as the symptoms of these diseases can be overwhelming. However, our goal with treatment is to ensure that you are as healthy as possible so it’s best to work toward eliminating any risky behaviors from your daily routine.
 
Adding daily meditation and activities such as yoga or mindfulness exercises also can be very beneficial. It’s also smart to keep a mood journal and document how you are feeling from day to day, as this can help identify mood triggers and help you better manage symptoms.

If you are struggling with symptoms of bipolar disorder or any mental health condition, seeking treatment from a local psychiatrist can improve your life drastically. In addition to serving as a bipolar disorder psychiatrist, I also work as an adult ADHD psychiatrist, anxiety psychiatrist, PTSD psychiatrist and depression psychiatrist. I also can treat additional disorders including OCD, eating disorders, substance use disorders and much more. I work as a psychiatrist in Thousand Oaks, serving clients throughout the LA metro area and Ventura County.

In the past, psychiatry and spirituality tended to occupy different spaces. In many cases, both spiritual leaders and psychiatrists were at odds with one another. However, as an experienced virtual psychiatrist, I find that there can be a strong connection between spirituality and positive mental health. Let’s explore how psychiatry and spirituality can work in tandem to help individuals achieve holistic well-being, personal growth and emotional resilience.

While there can be drawbacks to practicing any religion, particularly if it inhibits you from seeking mental health care, I have found that faith, spirituality and a belief in God can play significant roles in patient stability, providing individuals with purpose and meaning in life.

Of course, mental health issues are diseases that require treatment to reduce or eliminate symptoms so counseling and medications are still essential tools that can lead you to better health. All things equal, I find that patients who utilize therapy, medication and spirituality often do better than those missing the spiritual component.

In terms of mental health, there are many benefits related to spirituality and religion, including:

• Stress Reduction – Spiritual practices such as meditation, prayer, and mindfulness can reduce stress and promote relaxation. For instance, as an ADHD psychiatrist, I find that concentrated meditation specifically can help reduce the severity of symptoms. Prayer, mindfulness and meditation also can help reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression.
• Improved Coping Skills – Spiritual beliefs and practices can provide a sense of purpose and meaning, helping individuals cope with life's challenges and setbacks.
• Enhanced Emotional Resilience – A strong spiritual foundation can increase emotional resilience, helping people recover more quickly from emotional distress. Of course, attending a house of worship also can foster a sense of community and improve socialization which can lessen feelings of loneliness and isolation.
• Greater Life Satisfaction & Wellbeing – Spirituality can enhance overall life satisfaction and well-being by fostering a positive outlook and a sense of inner peace. 
• Better Management of Anxiety and Depression – As a psychiatrist for anxiety and a psychiatrist for depression, I’ve seen firsthand how spiritual practices can help manage symptoms of anxiety and depression by promoting relaxation, providing a sense of hope, and offering comfort during difficult times. 
• Encouragement of Positive Behaviors – Spiritual teachings often promote positive behaviors and ethical values, which can lead to healthier lifestyle choices and improved mental health.
• Increased Self-Awareness & Personal Growth – Spiritual exploration can lead to greater self-awareness and personal growth, helping individuals understand themselves and their emotions better.
• Improved Mindfulness & Present-Moment Awareness – Many spiritual practices encourage mindfulness, which can help individuals stay grounded in the present moment and reduce rumination, which is repetitive, negative thoughts. With many mental health disorders, rumination is a common symptom, and mindfulness can be a helpful tool to help minimize these distressing thoughts.
• Enhanced Compassion & Empathy – Spiritual teachings often emphasize compassion and empathy, fostering better relationships and a deeper understanding of others. Many religions focus on the idea of service and charitable acts and taking time for these actions can improve your mental health. Effectively you can help yourself as you also help others.
• Connection to a Higher Purpose – Spirituality can provide a sense of connection to something greater than oneself, which can be comforting and inspiring, especially during times of crisis.
• Support in Dealing with Grief & Loss – Life is hard for everyone, but it can be especially difficult to navigate loss and grief with a mental illness. Spiritual beliefs and practices can offer comfort and guidance when dealing with grief and loss, helping individuals find meaning and solace.

These benefits highlight the positive impact spirituality can have on mental health, offering tools and perspectives that complement traditional therapeutic approaches. Spirituality can make a huge impact on your mental health, but I still strongly recommend working with professional therapists and psychiatrists to ensure that all of your needs are met.

After all, as a psychiatrist, I have extensive training as both a physician and a mental health professional. This provides me with a unique perspective and allows me to develop treatment plans that target both the mind and body. Spirituality can be a helpful component of your daily life, but medication and talk therapy also help and can be essential parts of your treatment.

How To Add Spirituality To Your Life
This can be as simple as making weekly visits to your preferred house of worship, and I encourage you to search for an option where you feel welcome and accepted, as well as comfortable with the messages being provided by the clergy or worship leaders. However, that’s just one option and you also can consider the following.

Practice Mindfulness & Being Present – Experiment with various practices to see which ones are a good fit for you. This includes trying meditation, prayer, yoga, journaling or even reading (or listening to) spiritual texts.

Connect with Nature – Spending time in nature can foster a sense of peace and connection. Activities like walking in the park, hiking, gardening, or simply sitting outside can help you feel more grounded and in tune with the natural world.

Create a Sacred Space – Designate a space in your home for spiritual practices. This could be a small corner with a comfortable seat, candles, incense, or objects that hold special meaning to you.

Read and Learn – Explore spiritual literature, philosophy, or religious texts that interest you. Reading about different spiritual traditions and teachings can broaden your understanding and inspire new practices.

Engage in Community and Service – Join a spiritual or religious community, if that aligns with your interests. Participating in communal activities or volunteering can provide a sense of belonging and purpose.

Practice Gratitude – Cultivating gratitude can enhance your spiritual life by helping you appreciate the positive aspects of your life. This can be done by keeping a gratitude journal or simply reflecting on what you are thankful for each day.

Seek Guidance – If you’re exploring a specific spiritual path, consider seeking guidance from a mentor, teacher, or spiritual leader. They can provide insights, and support, and help you deepen your practice.

Engage in Creative Expression – Creative activities like painting, writing, music, or dance can be spiritual practices in themselves, allowing you to express your inner self and connect with something greater.

Practice Forgiveness and Compassion – Spirituality often involves cultivating compassion for yourself and others. Practice forgiveness and strive to approach situations with empathy and understanding.

Is Telepsychiatry A Good Fit For You?
Of course, as stated above, working with a psychiatrist also is an essential tool for anyone suffering from a mental illness. I offer services as both an online psychiatrist and an in-person psychiatrist, and many people these days are enjoying the convenience of telepsychiatry. Additionally, the use of online psychiatry services and online mental health services in general has been approved by the American Psychiatric Association.

There are several advantages of using a virtual psychiatrist over opting for in-person care. These advantages make telepsychiatry a valuable option for many patients, offering flexible, accessible, and effective mental health care. Let’s take a look at some of the general advantages of telepsychiatry.

1. Increased Accessibility – Telepsychiatry provides access to mental health care for individuals in remote or underserved areas where psychiatric services may be limited or unavailable.
   
2. Convenience and Flexibility – Patients can attend sessions from the comfort of their own homes, reducing the need for travel and making it easier to fit appointments into their schedules.
   
3. Reduced Wait Times – Telepsychiatry can help reduce wait times for appointments, providing more timely access to care, especially for those in urgent need.
   
4. Enhanced Privacy and Anonymity – Patients may feel more comfortable discussing sensitive issues in a private setting, which can enhance their openness and honesty during sessions.
   
5. Continuity of Care – Working with a virtual psychiatrist allows patients to continue receiving care even if they move to a different location, travel frequently, or have mobility issues.
   
6. Cost-Effectiveness – It can be more cost-effective for both patients and providers, reducing expenses related to travel, office space, and administrative costs. I work as a psychiatrist in Thousand Oaks where gas prices are exorbitant and sitting in traffic is a way of life. Saving gas money (and the stress of driving) is not an inconsiderable factor in my area.
   
7. Improved Access to Specialists – Patients can access a broader range of specialists, including those who may not be available locally, ensuring they receive the most appropriate care for their specific needs.
   
8. Increased Patient Engagement – The convenience of telepsychiatry can increase patient engagement and adherence to treatment plans, as it removes barriers related to travel and scheduling.
   
9. Flexibility in Treatment Settings – Telepsychiatry can be used in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, schools, and correctional facilities, enhancing its reach and applicability.
   
10. Support for Comorbid Conditions – Telepsychiatry can be particularly beneficial for patients with physical health conditions that make traveling difficult, allowing for integrated care that addresses both mental and physical health needs.
    
11. Family Involvement – Family members can more easily participate in sessions if needed, providing support and helping to create a more comprehensive treatment plan.
    
12. Reduced Stigma – Telepsychiatry can help reduce the stigma associated with seeking mental health care, as patients can receive treatment discreetly from their own homes.
    
13. Technological Integration – Modern telepsychiatry platforms often include features such as secure messaging, digital prescribing, and patient portals, enhancing the overall care experience and communication between providers and patients.
    
14. Emergency Support – In situations where immediate psychiatric support is needed, telepsychiatry can provide quick access to a mental health professional, potentially preventing crises.
    

Psychiatry Vs. Psychology
For most people with mental health disorders, you will need to use the services of both psychologists and psychiatrists. There are many helpful medications for mental health conditions that can greatly reduce symptoms and improve your quality of life. While not all patients will need medication, a psychiatrist is the only mental health professional that can prescribe medication.

However, psychiatrists don’t often provide talk therapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, so you will need to find additional mental health services from a psychologist or therapist. This ensures that you have both medication management and therapeutic tools to help you cope with symptoms and daily life in general.

A three-pronged approach that combines spirituality, therapy and possibly medication can be an effective way to manage the symptoms of many mental illnesses, and I encourage you to seek treatment as well as some form of spiritual or mindful action.

If you need the services of a virtual psychiatrist, I am always here to help, and we will get started on a journey to wellness with a comprehensive initial consultation that identifies all of the issues you may be facing, both mentally and physically. I also will develop a treatment plan that includes recommendations for therapy as well as prescribing any necessary medications.

If you prefer in-person treatment rather than a virtual psychiatrist, I do serve as a psychiatrist in Thousand Oaks and am conveniently close to those needing a psychiatrist in Westlake Village, a psychiatrist in Simi Valley or other nearby areas. We also could consider a hybrid option where we meet in person on occasion or utilize online therapy at other times, based upon your convenience.​

 

If you suffer from anxiety, meeting with a psychiatrist for anxiety can be an excellent option to consider. While your psychiatrist will ask you a myriad of questions to help them determine a complete diagnosis, patients also are encouraged to ask questions of their physician, as this can help you determine which doctor is the best fit for your needs. Here are a few questions you might ask a psychiatrist at the beginning of your mental health journey.

1. Can You Describe Your Experience Treating Anxiety?
Most psychiatrists will treat anxiety disorders, after all, anxiety and depression are the two most commonly diagnosed mental disorders. However, as a patient, it can bring you peace of mind to hear your physician talk about their experience treating anxiety and some doctors do specialize in the treatment of anxiety.

Even if your doctor specializes in treating many disorders, this is not a red flag. Many patients have co-occurring disorders so it’s good to have a psychiatrist or therapist with experience treating multiple mental health disorders. It’s not uncommon at all to find a psychiatrist that works as a depression psychiatrist, PTSD psychiatrist or perhaps a bipolar psychiatrist along with treating anxiety.  

2. What Types Of Anxiety Disorders Can You Treat?
Again, some anxiety psychiatrists will specialize in specific types of anxiety disorders, and there are several different types, including:

• Social Anxiety Disorder
• Generalized Anxiety Disorder
• Agoraphobia
• Panic Disorder
• Separation Anxiety Disorder
• Selective Mutism
• Specific Phobia

Additionally, some patients will experience anxiety due to a medical condition or perhaps due to a co-occurring substance use disorder. As a patient, you may feel more comfortable with psychiatrists, psychologists and therapists who have experience with your specific anxiety disorder(s).

3. What Treatment Options Do You Typically Recommend?
In many cases, the best treatment is a combined approach that includes different types of talk therapy as well as collecting strategies to help deal with anxiety-inducing situations as well as the general anxiety of day-to-day life. Additionally, treatment for anxiety disorders also often includes prescribing medications, as these often can reduce symptoms of anxiety significantly.

As a psychiatrist for anxiety, I can prescribe medication for my patients. Psychologists and therapists are mental health professionals that can provide valuable talk therapy, but they are not medical doctors and cannot prescribe medications.

I typically recommend that you find a provider that is open to many different treatment options. There’s no one-size-fits-all treatment plan for patients with anxiety, so it’s smart to select someone who bases their treatment plan squarely on the individual rather than providing the same options for every patient.

4. Can You Explain The Benefits & Risks Of Medication?
Taking medication for an anxiety disorder or any condition can be scary, but it’s more comfortable when you have a full understanding of the risks, benefits and potential side effects. Keep in mind, that with anxiety and depression medications, it can take time to find the best medication and the correct dosage for your needs.

Additionally, if you have co-occurring disorders, such as anxiety and bipolar disorder or perhaps depression and anxiety, we will need to find medications that can be used to manage all of your conditions and that also can take time.

Feel free to ask your doctor to explain everything from the potential side effects to the key differences between various anxiety medications. Patients who have a full understanding of their mental health condition as well as understanding the treatment options (both therapy and medications) tend to have the best results.

5. How Do You Determine The Best Treatment Plan?
As a psychiatrist for anxiety, I find that the best treatment plans evolve from a comprehensive diagnosis. Our initial meetings will include a deep dive into all of the mental health issues you are facing. As both a medical doctor and a mental health practitioner, I also look at your total physical health. Physical health can have a profound effect on mental health, so it’s smart to look at solutions that help both the mind and the body.

6. Do You Incorporate Therapy?
I would be skeptical of an anxiety psychiatrist who did not recommend some type of therapy for their patients. Medications certainly can be beneficial, but therapy also is crucial so if your psychiatrist doesn’t recommend any type of therapy, I tend to recommend finding a different doctor.

It’s important, however, to note that many psychiatrists do not provide services such as cognitive behavior therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, exposure therapy or general counseling. Psychiatrists often focus on diagnosis and the development of treatment plans, but they should recommend different types of talk therapy as part of this plan.

7. Do You Offer Telepsychiatry?
Even if you’d prefer to meet with your doctor in person, it can be wise to select a doctor that offers both options. Selecting a provider that serves as a virtual psychiatrist offers you a higher level of convenience. For instance, driving through traffic to the doctor can be anxiety-inducing, to say the least, and telepsychiatry helps you avoid this stress.

Additionally, if you are unwell or perhaps out of town, you can still meet with your doctor from anywhere in the world. All you need is a good internet connection, and you can meet using your smartphone, a tablet, laptop or PC. If you are uncertain about this option, keep in mind, that the American Psychiatric Association has given their stamp of approval to this treatment option.

Furthermore, telepsychiatry can be a good option to consider if you are experiencing feelings of shame or guilt about your condition. It can be easier to simply meet with a doctor in the convenience of your home rather. If you are worried that people will see you at the psychiatrist’s office, meeting virtually is a good option.

While there should be no shame in seeking treatment for any mental health condition, I know that many people feel weak or embarrassed by their mental health issues. Truly, though, mental health disorders are no different than any other medical condition and absolutely are not a sign of weakness. They are simply medical conditions that are usually treatable. Still, if you have these worries, telepsychiatry can offer you a more anonymous lifeline into treatment.

I work both as a local psychiatrist and as an online psychiatrist. For instance, if you need a psychiatrist in Simi Valley or a psychiatrist in Thousand Oaks, we can meet in my office. However, if you live outside of this area or perhaps prefer telepsychiatry, I can accommodate this option.  

8. Are There Lifestyle Changes That You Recommend?
While therapy and medication can be beneficial, there usually are some lifestyle changes that also will help reduce the symptoms of an anxiety disorder. For instance, your doctor might recommend daily outdoor exercise as this often can reduce anxiety as well as help you combat depression. Additionally, your doctor might recommend trying meditation to help or dietary changes to ensure optimum health, etc.

9. What If The Initial Treatment Isn’t Effective?
This is a great question! In some cases, the first treatment options we try might not be the perfect fit for your needs. The important thing is to find providers that are willing to try new options if the first round doesn’t work. In some cases, you might simply need to find a different therapist and in other cases, you might switch medications or try a different type of therapy, such as eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) or another approach.

Contact Dr. Jesalva Today!
As a psychiatrist for anxiety as well as many other mental health disorders, I can provide you with a comprehensive diagnosis and a treatment plan that addresses all of the issues you are facing. Whether you’ve been searching for a psychiatrist in Simi Valley, Westlake Village or Thousand Oaks or prefer telepsychiatry, give me a call and let’s get you on a path toward a happier, easier life.

 

​In the ever-evolving landscape of mental health care, the treatment of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) stands out as a field ripe with innovation and transformative practices. As a PTSD psychiatrist, navigating through the complexities of trauma's impact on the human psyche requires not just an understanding of traditional therapeutic approaches but an openness to the integration of cutting-edge technologies and methodologies. Let’s take a look at this disorder as some of the latest treatment options.

​PTSD is a disorder that develops after a person has experienced either one traumatic event or multiple traumas. While we often think about soldiers developing PTSD after returning from war, this is just one example of the type of trauma that can lead to PTSD.
 
For instance, a traumatic car accident can trigger this disorder, or perhaps years of abuse from a spouse or parent. Seeing a person die or watching your house burn down or experiencing the horrors of a terrible disease can trigger PTSD. These are just a few of the many examples of traumatic events that could cause PTSD symptoms.
 
According to the DSM-5, a publication by the American Psychiatric Association, symptoms that arise following exposure to traumatic events and fit the criteria for diagnosing PTSD include:

After experiencing a traumatic event, a person's thoughts and feelings might change negatively. These changes could include having trouble remembering parts of the trauma, forming negative views about oneself, others, or the world, or mistakenly blaming oneself or others for what happened. This might lead to feeling sad often, losing interest in activities that were once enjoyed, feeling disconnected from people, and finding it hard to experience joy.

​People may experience significant changes in their alertness and reactions related to the trauma, which may get worse after the event. This can lead to getting easily irritated or having sudden outbursts of anger, engaging in risky or harmful behaviors, being overly watchful or on guard, jumping at small surprises, facing trouble with focusing and having difficulties with sleep.

Your symptoms need to persist for more than a month for it to be considered PTSD. As a psychiatrist for PTSD, I find that many of my patients wait for years before seeking treatment, which is a shame, because treatments can be highly effective and reduce or eliminate your symptoms.

The problems one faces because of these symptoms can seriously disrupt one’s daily life, affecting relationships, work, or other important areas.

​Additionally, it is important to determine that your PTSD is not caused by the physiological effects of a substance (e.g., medication, alcohol) or another medical condition. As a PTSD psychiatrist, I view patients both from a physical as well as mental health perspective and will look at potential physical conditions or other causes that could contribute to any mental health disorder.
 
Keep in mind, that the aforementioned information comes from the DSM-5, but if you’ve experienced any type of trauma and find yourself suffering from anxiety, depression, nervousness, paranoia, difficulty concentrating, nightmares or sleep issues, memory issues, panic attacks or perhaps you turn to substances to help reduce these feelings, seeking treatment can help. 

Traditionally, a PTSD psychiatrist would recommend a combination treatment that includes both talk therapy and perhaps some type of medication. Talk therapy options might include cognitive behavioral therapy, prolonged exposure therapy or cognitive processing therapy.
 
The medications we often use can help reduce the symptoms of PTSD, but they don’t treat the underlying cause of PTSD, which is why talk therapy is so crucial for patients with PTSD. Medications we can use include antidepressants and perhaps mood stabilizers or anti-psychotic drugs. 

For many people, the traditional approach works well, but we do have many newer treatment options that have yielded promising results and as a psychiatrist for PTSD, I sometimes recommend some not-so-traditional options for my patients. These might include the following treatments. 

​This therapy was developed to help people recover from trauma, including PTSD. With EMDR, we have the patient focus on a traumatic memory while simultaneously using bilateral stimulation (typically through eye movements), which is believed to help the brain process and integrate traumatic memories.
 
EMDR was developed by Francine Shapiro in 19871 and it has been used as treatment for PTSD since the late 1980s. Since its inception, EMDR has become an accepted treatment for PTSD because it so often effectively reduces symptoms as well as the anguish tied to traumatic memories. EMDR also may be helpful for those with anxiety disorders and treatment-resistant depression.
 
In many cases, a person with PTSD also may be suffering from depression, anxiety or other co-occurring disorders and EMDR can be an excellent approach to consider. An anxiety psychiatrist or depression psychiatrist also might recommend this option. Of course, it is important to note that many psychiatrists, such as myself, specialize in treating a wide range of mental health disorders. 

Ketamine has been used for treatment-resistant depression with much success, but there is research to show that ketamine also can treat PTSD and greatly reduce the symptoms of this disorder.
 
Ketamine can be a very dangerous drug, so this must be administered in a doctor’s office by trained professionals. As a PTSD psychiatrist, I do still recommend that if you opt for a ketamine treatment you also combine this approach with talk therapy for the best possible outcome. 

​Psilocybin, otherwise known as magic mushrooms, is a controversial topic. Of course, psilocybin is only legal in Oregon and Colorado, although it has been decriminalized in cities such as Santa Cruz, CA and Oakland, CA.
 
Psilocybin often is used recreationally, but there is evidence to suggest that this substance can be used to treat PTSD, anxiety and depression. If you do consider this approach, I recommend going to a licensed and legal facility as self-medication is not recommended. I am, however, hopeful that more studies with psilocybin will be conducted because I believe this substance is promising for the treatment of PTSD and other disorders. If you have bipolar disorder as a co-occurring disorder, however, I do not recommend this treatment approach. 

This is a unique approach and one that is not currently FDA-approved for PTSD treatment. However, there is some evidence to suggest that SGB can be beneficial for some PTSD patients, especially for those who have tried other therapies without good results. This treatment is FDA-approved for other conditions, such as complex regional pain syndrome.
 
For this treatment, we inject a type of anesthetic into the stellate ganglion nerves, which are located in your neck. These nerves are an important component of our nervous system, controlling blood pressure and heart rate, among others. Injecting an anesthetic has been shown to reduce norepinephrine levels, which, in turn, may reduce PTSD symptoms.
 
Again, this is an alternative treatment and might only be recommended after you’ve tried other treatment options and found these to be ineffective. Also, it is crucial that if you do opt for this treatment you go to a licensed facility that uses ultrasound to help guide the injection into the correct area.

For TMS, we use magnetic fields to stimulate the nerve cells in your brain, and you can kind of think of this treatment as a brain “reboot” so to speak. Electromagnetic coils are placed on your scalp and these coils deliver a pulse to stimulate the nerve cells in the region of the brain that handles mood control. TMS has been used successfully for treatment-resistant depression, and some also find that it alleviates PTSD symptoms. ​

​PTSD is a complex mental health disorder that can greatly impact your day-to-day life, but, the good news is that we do have many treatment options to consider and many patients recover from PTSD and enjoy a much happier life.
 
As a psychiatrist for PTSD, I urge you to seek treatment as soon as possible. No one should have to suffer from past traumas, and I will work diligently to find a treatment plan that addresses your PTSD as well as any other mental health disorders you face.
 
Whether you need a psychiatrist for PTSD or perhaps a psychiatrist for anxiety, a psychiatrist for depression, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, substance use disorders or other mental health conditions, I provide services at my office in Thousand Oaks as well as telepsychiatry. Contact me at any time to set up a thorough evaluation and let’s get you started on a path toward a better life.

Humans are inherently social creatures, but if you’ve been feeling disconnected and lonely, this can impact your quality of life significantly. As a depression doctor, I believe it’s important for all of us to understand the impact of loneliness, but also to find ways to combat these feelings of isolation.

Loneliness can be a significant factor in the development of depression. While loneliness itself is a state of feeling disconnected, isolated, or separated from others, it can lead to various mental health issues, including depression. As a psychiatrist for depression, I’ve seen firsthand how loneliness impacts our lives. Here are just a few ways that feelings of loneliness can affect our psyche and lead to depression. ​

• Holiday & Seasonal Depression: For many people, the holidays and the winter season can be a difficult and problematic time, and this is especially true for those suffering from depression. The holidays are meant to be happy occasions, but they often make us feel sad, stressed out and alone.
  
  Additionally,  the lack of daylight during the winter months, and weather that often necessitates staying indoors, also can impact our well-being, leading to feelings of sadness and even full-blown depression. If depression haunts you seasonally, this is known as Seasonal Affective Disorder, and it’s very common. 
• Genetic Predisposition: A family history of depression can increase the risk, suggesting a genetic component to the disorder. 
• Brain Chemistry and Neurotransmitters: Imbalances in the brain's neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine, are believed to play a crucial role in depression. 
• Hormonal Changes: Changes in hormone levels, due to thyroid problems, menopause, childbirth (postpartum depression), or other health conditions, can trigger depression. 
• Life Events: Traumatic or stressful life events, including the loss of a loved one, financial problems, divorce, or significant life changes, can precipitate depression. 
• Chronic Illnesses: Living with chronic pain or a chronic illness, such as diabetes, heart disease, or cancer, can lead to feelings of hopelessness and depression. 
• Substance Abuse: Alcohol or drug abuse can both be a cause and a result of depression. Substance use can exacerbate or trigger depressive episodes. 
• Personality Traits: Individuals with certain personality traits, such as low self-esteem, being overly dependent, self-critical, or pessimistic, are at a higher risk of developing depression. 
• Trauma and Abuse: Experiencing trauma, abuse (whether physical, emotional, or sexual), or neglect, especially in early life, can significantly increase the likelihood of developing depression later in life.
• Social Factors: Poor social support, isolation, and conflict in relationships can contribute to the development of depression.

As a psychiatrist for depression, I work diligently to identify the root causes of a patient’s depression. In some cases, several of these factors can contribute to the development of depression. However, when we can identify the causes, this generally makes treatment more effective. 

If feelings of loneliness and isolation are at the root of your depression, there are some proactive steps you can take to connect with others, engage in meaningful activities and address underlying feelings of isolation. Here are several strategies to help alleviate loneliness:

1. Reach Out to Family and Friends: Make an effort to connect or reconnect with family and friends. Regular phone calls, messages, or video chats can help reduce feelings of isolation. Sometimes family members and friends are unaware of your level of loneliness, which is why you often have to be the person taking that first step. Once you connect, ask if you can schedule a regular phone call or video call or perhaps a weekly lunch or dinner.
2. Join Groups or Clubs: Participate in groups or clubs that align with your interests or hobbies. This can be a great way to meet new people who share similar passions.
3. Volunteer: Volunteering for causes you care about can connect you with others and provide a sense of purpose and community. 
4. Stay Active: Physical activity can boost mood and reduce feelings of loneliness. Joining exercise classes, yoga classes, dance classes or sports clubs can also introduce you to new friends. 
5. Explore New Interests: Taking classes or learning new skills can help you meet people, increase your self-confidence, and reduce feelings of loneliness. 
6. Attend Social Events: Make an effort to attend social gatherings, even if it feels daunting. Each event is an opportunity to connect with others. 
7. Consider a Pet: Pets can offer companionship, unconditional love, and a sense of responsibility. They also can be a way to meet other pet owners. 
8. Online Communities and Support Groups: Joining online forums or support groups related to your interests or experiences can offer a sense of belonging and connection. 
9. Practice Self-Compassion: Be kind to yourself and recognize that feeling lonely is a common human experience. Engage in self-care practices that nurture your well-being. 
10. Make Use of Technology: Use technology wisely to connect with others, but be mindful of screen time. Social media can be a tool for connection, but it's important to seek meaningful interactions. 
11. Create a Routine: Establishing a routine can provide structure and purpose, reducing feelings of aimlessness that can accompany loneliness. 
12. Seek Professional Help: If loneliness is persistent and affecting your mental health, consider talking to a mental health professional. Therapy can provide strategies to cope with loneliness and address any underlying issues.

​Combating loneliness is a process, and what works for one person might not work for another. It's important to try various strategies and find what best suits your personality and lifestyle. Remember, seeking connection and community is a fundamental human need, and taking steps to address loneliness is a brave and worthwhile endeavor. It’s not easy to reach out, but it’s also not easy to suffer from loneliness and depression.

Seeking treatment for depression or loneliness is an important step toward improving your mental health and overall well-being. Here are some signs and situations when it's advisable to seek professional help from a local psychiatrist:

​Whether you are dealing with persistent loneliness and/or depression, scheduling an appointment with a psychiatrist for depression is always a good idea. You also can talk with your primary care provider or a therapist.
 
As a psychiatrist for depression, I can provide you with a thorough diagnosis as well as create a treatment plan that addresses all of the issues you are facing. A depression psychiatrist also can provide you with medications, if needed.
 
Many different medications and combinations of medication can treat depression successfully. Talk therapy, dialectical behavior therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy can be helpful, as well. Even with medication, meeting with a depression therapist or psychologist is encouraged as a combination approach tends to yield the best results.
 
If you find that medications and therapy aren’t alleviating your symptoms, there are other options to consider, such as ketamine therapy and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR). Other options, such as repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS), electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) or vagus nerve stimulation (VNS), also can be beneficial for those with treatment-resistant depression.
 
If you are struggling with deep feelings of loneliness and despair, it’s best to contact a psychiatrist for depression as quickly as possible. As a depression doctor, I have successfully treated many patients with depression and chronic loneliness, and there is always hope for a brighter future. I also work as a PTSD psychiatrist and anxiety psychiatrist, which often co-occur with depression. I also can treat bipolar disorder, eating disorders, borderline personality disorder or any other co-occurring disorder.
 
I offer both in-person services as a psychiatrist in Thousand Oaks, as well as telepsychiatry, which can be a very convenient option to consider. Don’t wait another day to seek help. Depression and these feelings of loneliness can be tackled, and while it can take time to find a treatment that works, you are worth it and all you have to do is take the first step and give our office a call. 

Bipolar disorder is a complicated mental health condition, and if you are one of the millions of Americans with some form of this disease, you are likely well aware of how difficult it can make life. As a bipolar disorder psychiatrist, however, I have seen many success stories with patients who can manage symptoms with effective treatment options. Let’s take a look at the types of therapy and treatments that may help.

Medication has long been prescribed to individuals with bipolar disorder, and many people successfully navigate life once the correct medications and the correct dosage have been established. This process can take some time, and it’s not always a quick fix, but it can be very beneficial for many patients. Some of the drugs we might use include:

• Mood Stabilizers: Often the first line of treatment (e.g., lithium, valproate).
• Antipsychotics: Used if symptoms persist despite mood stabilizer treatment.
• Antidepressants: Sometimes used in combination with a mood stabilizer to manage depressive episodes.
• Anti-Anxiety Medications: For managing anxiety symptoms, often on a short-term basis.

In general, the best approach always includes some type of therapy. As a bipolar psychiatrist, I can prescribe medication and recommend a course of treatment, but you will want to find a psychologist or therapist who specializes in bipolar disorder for your therapy.

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps identify and change harmful thought patterns and behaviors.
• Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): This type of therapy also can be used to help patients regulate emotions, which can be difficult with bipolar disorder.
• Family-Focused Therapy: Involves family members in the treatment process to improve communication and support.
• Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy (IPSRT): Aims to stabilize daily rhythms such as sleeping, eating, and activity schedules. Sleep disruption is a huge component of bipolar disorder, which I will discuss below, but this is one reason why IPSRT can be beneficial.
• Psychoeducation: Educates the individual and their family about bipolar disorder and its management. This is more important than you might think. It’s so helpful for both patients and friends/family to truly understand the best ways to manage this condition. Education can make a huge difference and boost the success of treatment. 

For severe episodes or when medication and psychotherapy do not work, ECT can be effective, particularly for depressive episodes and, in some cases, mania. ECT was formerly called shock therapy and it has a rather dubious reputation throughout the psychiatric community. However, multiple studies illustrate its success with major depression, severe bipolar disorder and schizophrenia.
 
Another option to consider might be Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation or TMS. This option is less invasive and, for lack of a better word, a bit less scary. The FDA has allowed its use as a treatment for bipolar depression as well as for treating major depressive disorder, OCD and even issues such as migraine headaches. As a side note, migraines are extremely common in patients with bipolar disorder, and TMS might be an option to treat both your depression and migraines.

Psilocybin, or magic mushrooms, as they are sometimes called, are gaining interest as a treatment option for some psychiatric disorders. However, because this substance has long been illegal federally, there have been few studies undertaken to gauge its safety or efficacy. It’s also worth noting that psilocybin is illegal in all but two states – Colorado and Oregon.
 
Having said that, there are a few studies that suggest psilocybin might be a good treatment for depression as well as PTSD. As a psychiatrist, I am intrigued by the idea of using psilocybin as part of therapy and look forward to more studies and research as I believe it may yield positive results.
 
However, it is important to understand that even in the states where it is decriminalized, it is being used at licensed facilities and not simply sold over the counter as you might purchase cannabis. People with bipolar disorder often self-medicate to alleviate symptoms, but I don’t recommend trying psilocybin on your own.
 
With bipolar disorder, there also is some anecdotal evidence to suggest that psilocybin might activate a manic phase, which is not a good outcome. Again, more research needs to be conducted, specifically with bipolar patients before I would feel comfortable recommending this as a treatment option although I truly feel it has great promise to help those with treatment-resistant depression and PTSD.

As a psychiatrist specializing in bipolar disorder, I recommend trying a multi-treatment approach to this disease. A combination of medication and different therapies tends to elicit the best results. However, the following tips have been shown to be helpful for patients with bipolar disorder as part of a combination approach.

Changing your lifestyle can make more of a difference than you might think. For instance, regular exercise can help improve your mood and reduce depressive symptoms. A healthy diet that includes omega-3 fatty acids also has been shown to help. It is recommended that you avoid red meat and foods high in saturated fat and trans fat, such as “junk” food.
 
Creating a healthy sleep schedule is crucial, as sleep disruption can trigger both manic and depressive episodes. This is hugely important, and one step you can take is to create a sleep journal. Write down what you ate and when, and what you drank and when, as well as when you took medications, went to sleep, woke up, etc. This can help identify triggers that lead to poor sleep. I also recommend creating a sleep ritual that includes turning off electronic devices and perhaps winding down with some meditation, a warm bath and some relaxing music.

These days, meditation is easier than ever before. For instance, many phone meditation apps can help you clear the mind and relax and de-stress, as well as classes in meditation and mindfulness. Deep breathing exercises also can be helpful and reduce stress and regulate your mood.

Many people with bipolar disorder struggle with feelings of isolation and feelings that no one truly understands what they are going through. Finding a support group can be a great way to feel less alone and isolated.

If you’ve been searching for a bipolar psychiatrist near me but have yet to find someone who is a good match for you, feel free to contact our office at any time. While I work as a psychiatrist in Thousand Oaks and serve the greater Los Angeles area, I also offer telepsychiatry and this can be a good option to consider if you can’t find a good fit in your immediate area.
 
I have extensive experience working with patients with bipolar disorder as well as co-occurring disorders. I can create a diagnosis and treatment plan that addresses all of the issues you face and help lead you on a journey to a brighter, happier future. If you need a bipolar disorder psychiatrist, please don’t wait another day to seek treatment. Help is available, and bipolar disorder can be managed successfully and long-term.