Introducing New CREST members Dr. Phelps & Dr. Vassilev!

We’re delighted to announce the addition of two new members to the CREST network! Please join us in congratulating Dr. Jim Phelps and Dr. Andrea Vassilev in becoming network members.

Both Dr. Phelps and Dr. Vassilev also participated in our 2025 World Bipolar Day “Ask Me Anything” event in March. Read their bios to learn more about their contributions:

Dr. Jim Phelps

Dr. James Phelps is a semi-retired psychiatrist who spent nearly 30 years working with people with complex mood problems, many of them living with bipolar disorder. They inspired him to write a website about bipolar spectrum diagnosis and treatment in 2000, which led to a book for patients and families, and then one for psych’ professionals. Jim has also made a much shorter website (DepressionEducation.org) and a book-in-short-videos (YouTube/@PsychEducation). Jim has several education projects still underway. He’s working with a group dedicated to helping providers use “best practices”, the Bipolar Action Network. And he’s continuing to update the website and YouTube channel and expand their reach, especially into primary care. Read Dr. Phelp’s full bio here.

Dr. Andrea Vassilev

Dr. Andrea Vassilev is a mental health clinician and advocate who has lived with bipolar for nearly 30 years. In her multi-dimensional role, she works to bridge the gap between professionals and the lived experience community. Dr. Vassilev is the creator of Overcoming Self-Stigma in Bipolar Disorder (OSSiBD), the first program of its kind. Her passion is to increase knowledge and combat stigma surrounding bipolar. As a therapist in private practice, Dr. Vassilev specializes in treating individuals with bipolar across California. She serves on the Board of Directors for the International Society for Bipolar Disorders, as co-chair for their Experts by Experience Committee, and on their Psychological Interventions Task Force. Read Dr. Vassilev’s full bio here.