Bipolar disorder therapists & psychiatrists in Orange, CA

If trauma is still running your life, OCD has you trapped in cycles you can't break, or depression has left you feeling numb, stuck, and disconnected from the life you used to want—I want you to know: this can change, and you don't have to face it alone.

My path to this work started with my own mental health journey. I know what it feels like to struggle from the inside—and I know how life-changing the right support can be. That's exactly why I bring deep empathy, zero judgment, and evidence-based tools designed to create real, lasting change—not just coping, but building a life that feels like yours again.

I’m a Licensed Therapist working with clients in California / Florida. Along with my clinical training, I bring lived experience that helps me meet my clients where they're at. Outside of work I enjoy sports, cooking and trying new food, staying active, and getting outdoors—especially hiking—I do my best to live a full life while making sure I have some time to slow down and take it easy.

Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or weighed down by anxiety, depression, self-doubt, or past experiences? Moving forward can feel difficult when emotional pain, relationship struggles, or life stress leave you feeling trapped or uncertain.You do not have to face these challenges alone. I provide a compassionate, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where we can work together to help you heal, grow, and regain confidence. I believe your worth is not defined by your past or your struggles. Together, we will explore practical tools and strategies to help you create meaningful change and move toward a healthier, more fulfilling life.

I’m David Cao, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner providing online psychiatric evaluation and medication management for adults throughout California. I especially enjoy working with young adults dealing with anxiety, depression, stress, burnout, overthinking, feeling overwhelmed, or feeling mentally stuck.

If reaching out for psychiatric care feels intimidating, my goal is to make the process feel more approachable. My style is calm, laid-back, straightforward, and collaborative, with a focus on creating a low-pressure, nonjudgmental space where you can talk openly about what’s been going on.

I have over 7 years of experience in mental health care and understand how difficult it can be to manage work, school, relationships, and everyday responsibilities while also struggling with your mental health.

During our appointments, we’ll take time to understand your concerns, discuss whether medication may be helpful, and review your options in clear, straightforward language. Medication is never pressured or guaranteed. When appropriate, we’ll discuss potential benefits, risks, alternatives, and what you can realistically expect.

My goal is for you to leave each appointment feeling heard, informed, and confident about the next step, rather than judged, rushed, or overwhelmed.

As an Asian American growing up overseas, I bring cultural considerations and my multicultural experiences into the therapy process.

I believe that in order for therapy to be effective, the client has to participate in the process. I am not a magician. I don't have a magic wand. Changing old behaviors and patterns can be difficult and painful but i am willing to be there to support you on your journey to better health.

Therapy reduces suffering and creates possibility for healthy changes. It is one of the best investments that you can make as you gain awareness and learn about problematic patterns. Everyone is at their own change-readiness level and I will support you where you are at. I am familiar with most psychological issues or relationship concerns, as I have worked in numerous settings and generally I have said "Yes!" to everyone along the way.

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Qualities:

• 18+ years of experience
• Good listener and attentive
• Direct and honest
• Calm and grounded
• Engaged and active during the session
• Utilize mindfulness-based interventions
• Easy-going
• Good boundaries
• Non-judgmental
• Solution-focused
• Experience working with people from many cultures and backgrounds, political affiliations, religions and more.
• LGBTQ+ friendly

Please reach out via email or text. I return all messages in a prompt manner.