Obsessive-compulsive disorder therapists & psychiatrists in Carlsbad, CA

Welcome, I'm glad you're here.

I’m Bechael S. Harris, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC, a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 27 years of nursing experience. I provide care for adults and older adults navigating challenges such as depression, anxiety, dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, and other mental health concerns. My practice blends compassion, evidence-based treatment, and a commitment to helping each person feel heard, valued, and supported.

I work with individuals and families across the spectrum, as well as professionals navigating major life transitions. As a Psychology Professor and Senior Lecturer, I provide a high-level clinical space for those who feel "stuck" in their current narrative. Whether you are exploring your identity, navigating a career shift, or seeking LGBTQ+ affirming care, my ideal clients are those ready to build a life that feels authentic, sustainable, and truly yours.

More that fifteen years of teaching English and drama at a Los Angeles public high school taught me many things - primarily, it taught me how often people's barriers to achievement are not due to any lack of skill or ability, but rather from emotional barriers stemming from stress, adversity and trauma. So, I went back to graduate school to pursue a new career as a therapist so that I could help in a different way. My training and experience has focused on treating anxiety disorders, PTSD (including Complex-PTSD) and also couples - helping them to navigate challenges and triggers so that they can reset and reconnect.

I know how heavy life can feel when you’re carrying pain, uncertainty, or self-doubt. But I believe, as a wise old wizard once said, “Happiness can be found even in the darkest of places, if one only remembers to turn on the light.” My role is to help you find that light again. I work with Gen Z and Millennial adults facing anxiety, depression, trauma, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and more. Through integrative, culturally responsive care, I combine evidence-based psychiatry with holistic strategies to help you feel heard, supported, and empowered to create a life that aligns with your true self.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years of experience in domestic violence, addiction, homelessness, severe mental illness, behavioral modification, individual and family therapy, relational conflicts, crisis intervention, advocacy, social policy, clinical supervision and program development.

I believe in the immense power of our thoughts and our incredible capacity as human beings to change them through awareness, intention and implementation. Together we will work to create the life you want to live despite the hardships you have overcame and any future struggles that may lay ahead.

I believe life’s hardships and tragedies have strength and the power to empower with self awareness and guidance through the pain.

I’m someone who truly listens and strives to meet each person exactly where they are. My style is adaptive, reflective, and flexible. I bring authenticity, compassion, and a good sense of humor into my work because I believe that laughter and honesty can be just as healing as insight. I was inspired to become a therapist by my own desire for the kind of support I would have wanted, and I aim to offer that same understanding and care to my clients. People often describe me as warm, genuine, and empowering. I am someone who helps them feel deeply heard and supported while encouraging growth in meaningful ways.

I work with adults experiencing anxiety and depression, including overthinking, low motivation, feeling overwhelmed, and a loss of interest in daily life. Many come in feeling mentally exhausted or stuck in patterns that aren’t working. I work with adults of all ages, with a strong understanding of early adulthood and life transitions like career stress, relationships, and pressure to “figure things out.” I help you understand what’s going on and move forward with a clear, realistic plan.

I specialize in treating anxiety and depression using a modern, straightforward, and collaborative approach. I focus on clear explanations, practical strategies, and medication management when appropriate. Treatment is tailored to your life, with the goal of helping you feel better in a way that’s effective and sustainable.

Starting can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re unsure where to begin. My goal is to create a space where you feel understood and supported, while also giving you clarity and direction. If you’re ready to feel better and make meaningful changes, I’m here to help.