Find a psychiatrist in Santa Cruz, CA — covered by insurance


Top psychiatrists in Santa Cruz, CA accepting new patients
I believe that meaningful mental health care starts with trust, compassion, and genuine connection. Over the past 15 years, I have worked across a variety of healthcare settings, including trauma nursing, emergency nursing, and nurse leadership roles, caring for individuals and families during some of life's most challenging moments. These experiences have reinforced my belief that every person deserves to be treated with dignity, empathy, and respect.
My commitment to mental health care is also shaped by personal experience. Like many people, I have witnessed the impact of mental health challenges in my own life and among loved ones, which has deepened my understanding of the courage it takes to seek help. I strive to create a welcoming, judgment-free space where clients feel comfortable discussing difficult thoughts, emotions, and life experiences.
Hi, I’m Mercy Nyeche, DNP, PMHNP-BC. I’m a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to helping adults regain clarity, confidence, and emotional balance.
Reaching out for support can feel overwhelming especially when you’re used to being the strong one for everyone else. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, depression, burnout, life transitions, or feeling stuck in patterns that no longer serve you, you don’t have to do it alone.
My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and evidence-based. I take time to truly listen, understand your goals, and create a personalized treatment plan that fits your life, not just your symptoms.
Please note that I do not provide disability paperwork, leave of absence documentation, FMLA forms, legal letters, school accommodation letters, or other administrative forms. The only documentation I provide is a work excuse note for the date of your appointment and, when clinically appropriate based on my evaluation and professional judgment, up to three (3) days off from work. If you require any of the services or documentation listed above, I kindly ask that you schedule with another provider who offers those services. Thank you for your understanding and for helping ensure that your healthcare needs are matched with the appropriate provider.
Alex is a Doctor of Nursing Practice and Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He brings over 10 years of experience and received his education with honors from UCLA and CSULB. He is an expert in the assessment and treatment of ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, and more.
I’m passionate about helping those who need help mentally and emotionally
Hello! I'm Amanda Long, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to serving families through compassionate, culturally sensitive mental health care. I earned my Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University and have been practicing as a PMHNP since 2019, with over a decade of nursing experience beginning in 2011. My educational foundation also includes a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Illinois in Springfield, which broadened my understanding of human behavior and community dynamics. My journey in mental health has taken me through diverse settings that have shaped my comprehensive approach to care. I've worked in psychiatric emergency services at a major hospital, 23-hour crisis stabilization units, outpatient clinics, correctional facilities, and forensic mental health centers, including fitness-to-stand-trial evaluations. This varied experience has equipped me to understand mental health from multiple perspectives and meet people wherever they are in their journey, whether they're facing an acute crisis or seeking ongoing support. I specialize in medication management for individuals across the lifespan—from children and adolescents to adults and older adults. My treatment areas include depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, trauma-related conditions, psychotic disorders, and other mental health concerns. I'm experienced in both telehealth and in-person care, making quality psychiatric services accessible and convenient for your lifestyle. What drives me is the belief that everyone deserves competent, caring mental health support that honors their unique background and circumstances. I'm committed to improving the communities I serve, one individual and family at a time, through evidence-based practice combined with genuine human connection. My approach centers on partnership and creating a safe environment for healing. I look forward to supporting you and your family's wellness journey.
My passion is helping individuals find healing, balance, and inner strength. With compassion and care, I support clients as they navigate life’s challenges, building resilience, self-awareness, and emotional well-being along the way.I provide evidence-based treatment tailored to each person’s needs, drawing on mindfulness, trauma-informed approaches, and personalized care plans. My goal is to create a safe and supportive space where clients can reconnect with themselves and develop the tools for lasting wellness.
20 year plus experience in varied mental health venues -- private office, inpatient and outpatient hospital settings, clinic-based case management.
IMPORTANT: All clients must complete our intake form and sign our policies before their appointment. Please complete these documents at https://intakeq.com/new/6oakjo/lusjbb or contact us at 602-800-4699 (call or text). Please also email or text us a copy of your photo ID/driver's license at [email protected]
Hi, I'm Amy! As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I provide comprehensive, individualized care for complex mental health challenges. My expertise includes ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, OCD, personality disorders, PTSD and trauma, schizophrenia and psychotic disorders, substance use disorders, depression, anxiety, panic disorders, mood disorders, and bipolar conditions.
What sets my practice apart is my commitment to seeing each person as a unique individual with their own strengths, challenges, and goals. Whether you're seeking your first diagnosis, managing multiple conditions, or looking for a fresh perspective, I bring both clinical expertise and genuine empathy to every interaction. I work to address not just symptoms, but the whole person behind them.
I believe in collaborative care, where your voice and preferences guide our treatment decisions. My approach combines evidence-based psychiatric interventions with respect for your lived experience and personal values. I take time to listen, ask thoughtful questions, and ensure you feel heard and understood. Whether we're exploring medication options, developing coping strategies, or working through diagnostic questions, you'll always be an active partner in your care.
My goal is to help you thrive in daily life. Together, we'll work toward building resilience, improving functioning, and creating the meaningful life you deserve. I'm here to support you every step of the way. I create a safe, judgment-free environment where healing and growth are possible. Ready to begin? I'm currently accepting new patients.
Frequently asked questions


Find the right psychiatrist for you
Headway makes it easy to find support for your mental health — from finding the right provider, to understanding costs, to scheduling with ease.



































.jpeg)




