Autism Spectrum Disorder

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by persistent deficits in social communication and interaction across contexts, combined with restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, or activities. Symptoms appear in early childhood and cause significant functional impairment. ASD exists on a spectrum, with wide variation in symptom severity, intellectual ability, and language skills (often described by levels of support needed). Diagnosis involves comprehensive evaluation by specialists. While there is no cure, early intervention and ongoing support like behavioral therapies (e.g., ABA), speech therapy, occupational therapy, and educational accommodations can significantly improve outcomes and quality of life. Treatment focuses on maximizing strengths and addressing individual challenges.

Avoidant Personality Disorder

Avoidant Personality Disorder (AVPD) is a mental health condition characterized by a persistent and pervasive pattern of social inhibition, profound feelings of inadequacy, and extreme sensitivity to potential criticism or rejection. Individuals with AVPD desperately want social connection but avoid social interactions and situations due to an intense fear of disapproval, embarrassment, or ridicule. They often view themselves as socially inept or inferior and are reluctant to take risks or engage in new activities. This avoidance significantly impairs occupational functioning and the ability to form intimate relationships. While sharing features with Social Anxiety Disorder, AVPD involves a more global negative self-concept and broader avoidance patterns. Treatment typically involves psychotherapy, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and social skills training, to challenge negative beliefs and gradually reduce avoidance behaviors.

Binge-Eating Disorder

Binge-Eating Disorder (BED) is the most common eating disorder in the United States, characterized by recurrent episodes of consuming significantly large amounts of food in a short period, accompanied by a sense of lack of control. These episodes are marked by distress and features such as eating rapidly, eating until uncomfortably full, eating when not hungry, or eating alone due to embarrassment, but are not followed by regular purging or other compensatory behaviors seen in Bulimia Nervosa. BED often co-occurs with depression, anxiety, and significant body image concerns, and can lead to obesity-related health problems. It arises from a complex mix of genetic, biological, psychological (like low self-esteem, dieting history), and social factors. Effective treatment typically involves psychotherapy (like CBT or IPT), nutritional counseling, and sometimes medication, focusing on normalizing eating patterns, addressing underlying emotional issues, and improving body image.

Bipolar I Disorder

Bipolar I Disorder is a serious mood disorder defined by the occurrence of at least one manic episode. Mania involves a distinct period (at least 1 week, or less if hospitalized) of abnormally elevated, expansive, or irritable mood and persistently increased energy/activity causing severe impairment in functioning, potential need for hospitalization, or psychotic features. While major depressive episodes are common and cause significant suffering, they are not required for the diagnosis if a manic episode has occurred. Hypomanic episodes may also occur. Lifelong management, primarily with mood-stabilizing medications and adjunctive psychotherapy (e.g., CBT, IPSRT), is essential to control symptoms and prevent relapses.

Bipolar II Disorder

Bipolar II Disorder is a mood disorder characterized by a clinical course of recurring mood episodes consisting of at least one major depressive episode and at least one hypomanic episode. Hypomania involves a distinct period of abnormally elevated or irritable mood and increased energy lasting at least four days, differing from the person's usual state but not causing severe functional impairment or psychosis. Major depressive episodes involve at least two weeks of depressed mood or loss of interest plus other depressive symptoms. Crucially, individuals with Bipolar II have never experienced a full manic episode. Treatment focuses on long-term mood stabilization using medication and psychotherapy (like CBT or IPSRT).