What is Mental Illness?

A mental illness is defined as a disease that causes mild to severe disturbances in behavior and/or thoughts. These changes result in an inability to cope with daily life and struggles.

Two of the most common mental illnesses include depression and anxiety. Symptoms of these two disorders include changes in mood, extreme worry, feelings of hopelessness and helplessness, and social withdrawal.

Mental illness treatments, such as depression and anxiety treatment, is not aimed at just a person’s past and current relationships, family history and current issues that are causing stress. Treatment must also include how the brain works and how it is a major contributor to overall mental health.

Services Offered by Dr. Yen

Kathleen Yen, MD, PLLC provides evaluation, medication management and psychotherapy for a variety of psychiatric and psychological problems not limited to depression and anxiety treatments. Her specialties include:

  • Bipolar Disorder

  • Relationship Issues and Work Issues

  • Grief and Life Transitions

  • Women’s Mental Health

She provides comprehensive, individualized treatment plans that are evidence-based and that are also designed to promote overall wellness. She believes in a holistic approach to mental health, one that includes the whole person – mind, body, and spirit.

​She incorporates psychotherapy techniques into medication management sessions and spends time educating the patient. She believes in collaborative care with the patient, family, and other mental health and medical providers.

Dr. Yen has a special interest in working with professionals, stay-at-home parents, and individuals going through life transitions to improve self-esteem, stress management, and work-life balance. She incorporates a range of therapeutic techniques, including mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral therapy, psychodynamic, and motivational interviewing.