Amanda Nelson, PA-C, PMH-C

Amanda Nelson completed her undergraduate studies at Smith College in Northampton, Massachusetts, earning a double major in Biology and African Studies. During that time, her course of study focused on intersections between gender, culture, and international healthcare systems. Thereafter, Amanda served for two years as a health sciences educator in South Gate, California through the Teach for America Program. At this time, she earned a master’s degree in Urban Education, with a special focus on students with learning disabilities and cognitive or attention deficits. At the completion of her teaching service, Amanda completed a specialized program at USC Keck School of Medicine where she earned a Master of Science in Global Medicine. Amanda completed her Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies at the Western University of Health Sciences in Pomona, California. After graduation, Amanda spent time working in urology, surgery, and the urgent care setting before deciding that psychiatric medicine was where she ultimately wanted to build her career. Her areas of focus include depression, anxiety, panic disorder, attention and cognitive deficits, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and adolescent mental health. In November 2022, Amanda successfully completed the educational requirements and passed the PMH-C Certification Examination and thus was awarded the title Certified Perinatal Mental Health Professional.

Drawing from her experiences as an educator and an advocate, Amanda works to empower patients to understand their mental health conditions and what avenues of treatment are available to them. Through a patient-centered, team-based approach, Amanda utilizes an array of psychotherapeutic techniques as well as psychotropic medications to allow for optimized results. She actively engages her patients to participate in medical decision-making and helps them make informed choices with regard to their mental health needs. As the field of psychiatric medicine is constantly developing, Amanda also continues to educate herself about cutting-edge therapeutic and treatment modalities in order to provide the best care possible. With a deep belief in the human propensity for positive growth and transformation, Amanda works purposefully to offer opportunities for her patients in ways that are life-changing for the better.