Anosognosia is defined as a neurological condition or a medical symptom that is characterized by a lack of knowledge or awareness of one’s own disease or deficit. The brain itself rejects, lies with excuses, or denies reality when it conflicts with a person’s self-image or past experiences. This is related to neurons, not psychology. However, […]
Men’s mental health is as often needed as other health issues, with many men suffering in silence despite growing awareness. More than one in four men experience a mental health disorder in their lifetime. Societies are discussing mental health more now than ever before. People are becoming more open about their mental health, which is […]
Sometimes, people who are very sad and have major depression also experience a special kind of problem called catatonia. This is what doctors call catatonic depression. It is a condition where someone has trouble moving and talking, even when they want to. Catatonic state meaning shows when the body and mind are stuck in slow […]
Dennis Ly is a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to delivering compassionate, evidence-based, and holistic care. With eight years of nursing experience in emergency medicine, Dennis gained extensive experience working with patients in acute crisis, including those with psychiatric and behavioral health needs. These experiences fostered his passion for mental health and shaped his ability to remain calm, empathetic, and collaborative when supporting patients during their most vulnerable moments.
He earned his Master of Science in Nursing from Capella University and completed his Post-Master’s PMHNP certificate at National University, where he received advanced training in psychiatric assessment, psychopharmacology, and therapeutic interventions for children, adults, and geriatric patients. His clinical focus includes the treatment of anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and ADHD.
In addition to medication management, Dennis integrates therapeutic modalities such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, and patient-centered therapy into his practice, tailoring care to each individual’s goals and values. He approaches treatment with a holistic and collaborative philosophy, meeting patients where they are and empowering them to build resilience through personalized care.
Outside of work, Dennis enjoys exercising, eating sushi and Korean BBQ, and traveling.
Outside of work, Vivienne enjoys traveling, discovering new restaurants, watching movies and visiting museums. She genuinely enjoys meeting new people and feels inspired everyday by the strength and resilience of those she serves.
Clint is one of our most experienced Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioners at Orange Coast Psychiatry and is 103NP Licensed in the State of California.
Nicole Leonce is a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over five years of experience in psychiatry and a strong medical background. She earned her Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from the University of San Francisco and is a proud member of the Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing. Nicole has a special emphasis in Trauma-Informed Care and is deeply committed to providing compassionate, patient-centered, and culturally responsive treatment.
Her clinical expertise includes the diagnosis and management of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma-related conditions, ADHD, OCD, substance use disorders, and mood disturbances. She also provides care for individuals navigating grief, life transitions, and relationship stressors. Nicole integrates evidence-based approaches such as psychodynamic therapy, motivational interviewing, and solution-focused techniques, along with medication management, to help her clients achieve balance and emotional well-being.
Nicole believes that every patient’s story deserves to be heard and validated. She strives to create a safe and supportive environment where individuals feel empowered to explore their challenges and reach their full potential.
Outside of her practice, Nicole enjoys reading, traveling, exploring museums, cooking, and dining with friends and family. She also loves spending time with her miniature poodle, Nico.
