Allison Whitehead

Hi! I’m a dual-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, trained at the University of California, San Francisco School of Nursing, and I have been practicing for 10 years.

I take a holistic, whole-person approach to care, recognizing how closely mental and physical health are connected. I offer psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and supportive therapy to adolescents and adults across the lifespan experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, mood disorders, and substance use. I aim to create a space where you feel heard, supported, and actively involved in your care.

My approach to care is collaborative, holistic, and patient-centered. I believe mental health is deeply connected to physical health, lifestyle, and life experiences, so I take a whole-person approach when developing treatment plans. I work closely with each patient to understand their goals, preferences, and values, and we make decisions together.

I integrate evidence-based medication management and therapy with attention to sleep, nutrition, stress, relationships, and overall well-being. When appropriate, I incorporate complementary and lifestyle-based approaches, and I aim to use medications thoughtfully and effectively.

I also take a non-judgmental, supportive approach, especially when working with individuals navigating substance use, trauma, or complex life transitions. My goal is to create a space where patients feel heard, respected, and empowered, and to provide care that is both practical and sustainable for their daily lives.

Our first session is really about getting to know you, understanding what you've been going through, and learning what you're hoping to get out of treatment. We'll take time to talk about your current concerns, symptoms, medical and mental health history, lifestyle, and anything else that may be affecting your well-being. There's no need to prepare anything special or have all the answers. We'll work through things together at a pace that feels comfortable for you.

We'll also talk about your goals, whether that's feeling more like yourself, managing difficult emotions, improving focus, or simply finding more balance in your daily life. From there, we'll explore treatment options together, which may include medication, lifestyle changes, practical coping strategies, or psychotherapy. My approach is collaborative, and I want you to feel informed and comfortable with the decisions we make.

After our first visit, we'll come up with a follow-up plan that fits your individual needs. This may include psychiatric medication management alone or a combination of psychiatric care and psychotherapy, with follow-up appointments typically ranging from 30 minutes to an hour.

Most importantly, I want you to feel that you have a safe, welcoming space where you can speak openly, ask questions, and feel genuinely heard. There's no pressure to make any big decisions during our first meeting. It's also a chance for us to see if we're a good fit and begin building a trusting, supportive relationship. I look forward to getting to know you and working together toward your goals.