Prenatal and postpartum therapists & psychiatrists in Arcata, CA

I support teens, adults, and families who are navigating life transitions, emotional overwhelm, relationship challenges, grief, identity exploration, anxiety, depression, and the lasting impact of difficult or traumatic experiences. Whether you are feeling disconnected from yourself, struggling to break painful relational patterns, or simply trying to find steadiness during a difficult season of life, therapy can become a space where healing and clarity begin to emerge.

A core priority in my work is helping clients reclaim the power of their voice. Therapy is most meaningful as a collaborative process where you are not only heard, but truly attempted to be known. As an Iranian American therapist, I understand the richness and complexity of holding multiple cultural identities. I especially enjoy supporting Highly Sensitive People (HSPs), as well working with teenagers and adults navigating identity formation, relationships, and the often tender process of growing into themselves

I am a licensed therapist who specializes in anxiety depression and behavioral addictions such as gambling, gaming, shopping, and technology use. I became an LCSW because, quite simply, I love people and have the deepest respect for all living things. I have a masters in Social work and background in Psychology, Sociology and Education. I believe that every individual has innate strengths and my goal is to help you tap into yours. Whether you are in a difficult life transition, navigating healthy relationships, or looking to understand yourself more deeply, I am here to empower you so that you can move from feeling "stuck" to feeling capable.

Outside of the therapy room, I am a proud mom and dedicated reader. As someone who identifies as a lifelong learner, I will bring curiosity and warmth to every session. In addition to my private practice, I am a crisis clinician. This background has sharpened my ability to remain grounded, and provide a safe, stable space even when a situation may feel the most chaotic.

I have experience working with children, youth, adults, families, couples but in the last few years, I have shifted my main focus to work with adults who are struggling with anxiety, trauma and depression. I’ve worked in the mental health field for 22 years and been practicing as a therapist for about 10 years. As a licensed marriage and family therapist, I believe that prioritizing mental health is key to happiness and stability in life. Seeking help can be difficult, so congratulations on taking your first step to start therapy.

Being vulnerable and allowing yourself to seek support when needed is a sign of strength. Together in therapy, we can continue to build on those strengths and learn to create a life worth living. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with specialization in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and training in different therapeutic modalities. I have had the privilege of working with children, families, and adults in all stages of life in both outpatient and inpatient settings who are having mental health difficulties with everyday stressors, life/stage transitions, mental illness, and terminal illness.

I believe that healing begins when you feel truly seen, understood, and safe to be yourself. My approach is warm, collaborative, and grounded in both evidence-based therapy and mind–body awareness.

Many of my clients are high-achieving professionals, caregivers, or individuals navigating life transitions who feel anxious, stuck, or disconnected from themselves.

Together, we’ll explore not just what’s happening in your mind, but how your body and emotions respond — so you can reconnect with clarity, calm, and confidence.

I bring curiosity, compassion, and a touch of humor to each session. My goal is to help you slow down, breathe, and find the insight and direction that’s already within you.

IMPORTANT: For current availability, visit https://mentalhealthpractitioners.com/ or call or text us anytime at 415-968-6515—we make it super easy! Intake forms are required before your first appointment and will be emailed to you when you book online. You can text us your info or email us at [email protected]. Please be sure to send us a picture of your insurance information and photo ID!

I'm Christina Stelly, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC — a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner based in Martinez, CA. With over 15 years of clinical experience across inpatient psychiatry, maternal health, and advanced practice, I am deeply committed to delivering compassionate, evidence-based mental health care to every person I serve.

I specialize in treating schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, PTSD, depression, anxiety, and etc.

My academic background includes a Post-Certificate DNP in Psychiatric Mental Health from the University of Illinois Chicago, a Doctorate of Nurse Practice from Texas Tech University, and a Master of Science in Nursing from Touro University. I also completed an intensive NP residency focused on advanced psychiatric care, crisis stabilization, and forensic psychiatry, which further strengthened my clinical expertise.

Earlier in my career, I specialized in maternal mental health, serving as a Patient Care Director for high-risk obstetric populations and contributing to perinatal mental health policy at the state and national levels. This background gives me a uniquely broad, whole-person perspective on psychiatric care across the lifespan.

My approach is grounded in trauma-informed, individualized care. I take time to fully understand your history, concerns, and goals before collaboratively building a treatment plan tailored to you. I have also served on health policy committees and presented at national nursing conferences, reflecting my commitment to psychiatric care.

I have a Master's Degree in Counseling, Marriage, and Family from Phillips Graduate Institute.

I earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Sociology from UCSB.

I typically work with clients who have a history of trauma, life transitions, relationship issues, and managing anxiety, The clients I work with are very motivated to make changes in their lives.

I worked with high-risk, traumatized, and abused youth for many years. I find practicing therapy very rewarding. Assisting my clients to work through life challenges and progress in their life journey is a privilege.