Psychiatric Conditions We Treat in Arizona

Depression is a mood disorder that causes persistent low mood, loss of interest, low energy, and changes in sleep, appetite, and thinking. When symptoms significantly interfere with daily functioning, professional care is recommended. Some individuals experience treatment-resistant depression (TRD), meaning symptoms have not sufficiently improved after trying multiple antidepressants. At Gilbert Chandler Psychiatrists, depression care is individualized and may include therapy, medication, lifestyle support, and advanced options such as TMS or Spravato® when appropriate.

Anxiety disorders involve excessive worry, fear, or nervous system activation that persists even when no immediate threat is present. Anxiety can cause both emotional distress and physical symptoms such as restlessness, muscle tension, racing thoughts, and sleep difficulties. Chronic anxiety may lead to avoidance behaviors and impact relationships and work. Treatment focuses on helping the nervous system regulate more effectively and improving daily functioning.

OCD is characterized by intrusive, unwanted thoughts and repetitive behaviors or mental rituals performed to reduce anxiety. These thoughts are often ego-dystonic, meaning they feel inconsistent with a person’s values. OCD can be highly distressing and time-consuming. Evidence-based treatment focuses on helping patients change how they respond to intrusive thoughts rather than trying to eliminate them.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event, including single incidents or repeated exposure over time. Symptoms may include hypervigilance, intrusive memories, nightmares, emotional numbness, and irritability. Trauma can also present as chronic anxiety or mood symptoms. Treatment is individualized and focuses on helping the nervous system process trauma safely and restore a sense of stability.

ADHD affects attention, organization, impulse control, and emotional regulation. In adults, it often presents as difficulty focusing, forgetfulness, disorganization, and trouble completing tasks across multiple areas of life. ADHD can impact work performance, relationships, and self-esteem. Treatment may include medication, behavioral strategies, and skills to support daily functioning.

Bipolar disorder is a mood disorder involving episodes of depression and periods of elevated or irritable mood. These mood changes are more intense and longer-lasting than normal mood fluctuations and can significantly impact functioning. Bipolar disorder requires careful diagnosis and treatment planning, often involving mood-stabilizing medications and ongoing psychiatric care.

Sleep disorders involve difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or feeling rested after sleep. Insomnia is often linked with anxiety, depression, or chronic stress and can worsen mental health symptoms over time. Treatment focuses on identifying underlying contributors and improving sleep patterns through behavioral strategies and targeted therapy such as CBT-I.

Panic disorder involves sudden, unexpected panic attacks that can include chest tightness, shortness of breath, dizziness, and a sense of impending danger. These episodes often occur without a clear trigger and may lead to fear of future attacks. Treatment focuses on reducing the frequency and intensity of panic symptoms and addressing the underlying anxiety patterns.

Substance use disorders involve difficulty controlling the use of alcohol or other substances despite negative consequences. Many individuals use substances to cope with anxiety, trauma, or mood symptoms. Treatment is non-judgmental and focuses on safety, motivation, and reducing harm while addressing underlying mental health contributors.

Autism spectrum disorders affect social communication, emotional reciprocity, and sensory processing. Many adults seek evaluation later in life after feeling “different” or chronically overwhelmed in social situations. Diagnosis can provide clarity and validation. Treatment focuses on skill-building, emotional regulation, and improving quality of life rather than changing core identity.

Eating disorders involve disrupted relationships with food, body image, and control. They often coexist with anxiety, trauma, or mood disorders and can carry significant medical risks. Treatment focuses on addressing underlying emotional drivers, supporting physical health, and restoring balanced eating patterns through coordinated care.

Psychotic disorders involve difficulty distinguishing reality from perception and may include hallucinations, delusions, or severe disorganization in thinking. These symptoms can occur on their own or as part of another condition such as severe depression or substance use. Treatment typically involves medication management and close psychiatric monitoring to support safety and stability.