RAIN is a mindfulness approach that works through four steps: Recognize, Allow, Investigate, and Nurture (non-identification). This comes alongside different psychotherapeutic approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). The four steps help to deal with overwhelming emotions, anxiety, or depression. This technique was created in the […]
Do you remember when your favorite things made you excited, but now the thought of doing them just makes you feel exhausted? It’s completely normal, as most people change their interests and hobbies over time. However, Losing interest in activities or routines a person once enjoyed can be concerning, especially when it lasts for weeks […]
Manic depression is an older term for bipolar disorder. Borderline personality disorder (BPD) is a separate condition that shares surface-level symptoms with bipolar disorder. This is why they both get confused more often. Both of these conditions involve mood changes, impulsivity, depression, and emotional instability. They differ in pattern, duration, triggers, and symptoms. Bipolar disorder […]
Depression is one of the most common mental health disorders, defined by symptoms that include sadness, tearfulness, emptiness, difficult concentrating, and more. It also transforms your thoughts, actions, and sleep schedule. Moreover, depression has different types as per severity. It is a treatable condition with the right therapies and medications. Understanding the symptoms and seeking […]
Do you often feel sad even when everything in your life is going right? Or do you usually feel panicked over situations you know you cannot control? If yes, you might be experiencing depression or anxiety. Anxiety and depression are two of the most common mental health disorders that severely affect mood. While both conditions […]
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 […]
Depression is a form of mental health condition where a person feels persistent sadness. This is a common and serious mental mood disorder worldwide. This mental state affects people in how they feel and think about life events, even the enjoyable moments. But when we talk about crippling or debilitating depression, we refer to the […]
Depression is a complex mental health condition that can impact a person’s life and hinder their daily working or activity. This is like despair or inactivity, or not doing anything that gives one pleasure. This means that feeling sad or losing interest in life is not a unique experience for those affected. It can affect […]
Have you ever felt like your sleep is playing with you? Are you struggling with depression and are unaware of it? Depression and sleep are closely linked. Let’s see how? Depression isn’t a “one-size-fits-all” experience. Depression comes in many forms and features. But when the depression becomes persistent sadness, disappointment, and the feeling of hopelessness […]
Sadness is part of life, but constantly going through constant feelings can be alarming for your health. The consistency will lead you to anxiety and depression. However, depression has a significant impact on your relationships. It can damage the bond between them through misunderstandings and emotional distance. It can affect the people who are close […]
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.
Vivienne Peng is a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of nursing experience working in the mental health field. Fluent in both English and Mandarin Chinese, she brings a culturally responsive, person-centered care that honors each individual’s unique background and walks of life.
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.
