Bipolar disorder therapists & psychiatrists in San Clemente, CA

Who I Am: In my nursing career of over 25 years I have undergone extensive training in the specialized fields of neurology and psychiatry, which eventually led me to my true passion of becoming a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). Throughout my career, I’ve been deeply interested in the brain and its complexity. My path into mental health was shaped by a lifetime of witnessing the impact of mental illness on those around me. Helping others grow, improve their well-being, and experience a better quality of life has always been a central passion of mine, and it continues to guide the work I do today.

I have lived in the Truckee Tahoe area off an on for over 30 years, I have an AA Degree in Early Child Development, a BA Degree from the University of California Santa Cruz, and I attended the University of. Nevada, Reno for my Masters in Social Work.

My husband and I have two grown children who live in Northern CA and Nevada. We are avid skiers, mountain bikers, and my hobbies include cooking, art, writing, and learning, and of course, playing with our mini golden doodle, Joaquin.

My roots are in Scranton, Pennsylvania; growing up, life was challenging and unpredictable for me and my sisters. I was the first member of our extended family who was able to put themselves through both undergraduate (BA - Latin American Studies/UCSC, and graduate school (MSW- Masters in Social Work, (UNR) and graduate with honors.

All three of my younger sisters followed in my footsteps to pursue higher education and to find success as Professionals.

My husband and I moved to the Tahoe/Truckee area together in the early 1990s, pursuing seasonal employment. We somehow made ends meet, things got a little easier each year, and he later pursued a career in resort and business management, while I pursued continuing education, mental health and licensure, and opening up my practice.

Our son and a daughter both grew up enjoyed attending local public schools in Truckee, and later the Univeristy of California; they are both living fulfilling adult lives in the nearby region.

I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who believes that therapy works best when you feel truly heard — not judged. I bring warmth, honesty, and a no-nonsense approach to our work together. My goal is for every client to leave each session feeling a little more understood and a little more equipped than when they walked in. I work with most major insurance plans, so getting quality care shouldn't have to break the bank.

I believe therapy is about empowerment, helping you reconnect with your strengths, build confidence, and create a life that feels authentic and fulfilling. Many of my clients come to me struggling with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, or challenges in their relationships. My role is to provide a safe, open, and nonjudgmental space where you can feel heard and supported.

Dr. Aw primary interest is the intersection between mental and physical health. Dr. Aw’s philosophy, one does not exist outside of the other. Furthermore, Depression and anxiety in patients who are also suffering from medical issues feels significantly worse, and it is his goal to get patients on the road to recovery.