Brett Larson, PA-C

Brett Larson is a Board Certified Advanced Practitioner and Physician Assistant who specializes in providing care to those affected by a wide range of psychiatric conditions. In 2010 Brett completed a Bachelors of Arts degree in Philosophy from the University of California, Irvine. He then began a 2-year college internship program at Hoag Hospital, Newport Beach. There he had the opportunity to explore many facets of the healthcare system which solidified his decision to further pursue a career in medicine. In 2014 Brett graduated from Western University of Health Sciences and earned a Master of Science Degree in Physician Assistant Studies.

Brett specializes in medication management of a wide range of psychiatric conditions primarily including, depression, anxiety, ADD/ADHD, Bipolar and other Mood Disorders, PTSD and substance use disorders. Brett offers medication management only when necessary, while recognizing that each individual is unique and requires an individual treatment plan for optimal mental health and wellness outcomes. Having considerable experience practicing urgent care medicine, Brett believes that his background in primary care makes him specially suited to manage psychiatric conditions that may be related to general health issues or other medical conditions.

Brett tailors treatment to each individual by utilizing various diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. This includes genetic testing, psychological testing and a careful overview of one’s physical health. Brett believes in the bio-psycho-social model and analyzes a patient from a multifactorial standpoint, including the interplay between their situational stressors, past life events and certain genetic predispositions. This in combination with information about their overall health, provides tools that best guide him in his choice of treatment.

Having a background in evaluation and treatment of substance abuse disorders and dual diagnosis, Brett’s area of interest lies in addiction medicine. For several years Brett worked in a dual-diagnosis treatment facility in Laguna Beach, California. There he provided much needed behavioral health services to individuals struggling with addiction. The compassionate and empathetic care he provided went a long way in helping people rebuild their life and regain their health. At Harbor Psychiatry and Mental Health Brett works closely and collaboratively with their addiction medicine specialist and routinely evaluates and treats patients who suffer from alcohol, heroin, methamphetamine and prescription narcotic and benzodiazepine abuse/ dependency.