LGBT therapists in Atascadero, CA

As a therapist, I am passionate about walking alongside folks as they reveal their truths and vulnerabilities to themselves. I believe, and have witnessed that people are capable of long standing change with knowledge, support, and connection, and that therapy is a great place for that. You can learn new ways to manage life stressors, feel safe, gain confidence, and live a more joyful and purposeful life. I use cognitive behavioral, solution-focused, and strength-based techniques, while never ignoring the human element and connection where the real change happens.

In addition to my work as a licensed therapist, I have over 15 years of experience supporting children, adults, couples, and families in a variety of mental health and community settings. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who works with teens, adults, couples, and families navigating trauma, anxiety, relationship challenges, and the lasting impact of childhood experiences. My passion is helping cycle breakers heal old wounds, build healthier relationships, and create lives that feel more connected, intentional, and authentic.

I am a licensed psychotherapist with 20 years of clinical experience working with anxiety, depression and complicated relationships among many other concerns. I tend to use a more logic-driven, analytical structured approach with my clients where together we try to understand and analyze patterns of behavior that are causing problems and getting in the way of their lives. As a result, neurodivergents and people who work in the hard sciences, technology fields, or are business executives tend to respond very positively to my style and approach. I also work with mood disorders, unconventional or complicated relationships, historical spiritual abuse and military veterans.

Specialty in AI and technology:

I also specialize in the psychology of AI, technology and how it affects society and relationships. For 7 months last year, I spent extensive time within AI-user online communities to learn about their firsthand experiences involving AI-related harm and parasocial relationships. I was featured in the 2026 title How to Talk to AI (And How Not To) by BBC journalist and author Jamie Bartlett, where I discussed parasocial relationships in AI use.

Hobbies:

I love the outdoors, backpacking and going on road trips with my dog. I teach outdoor skills in a wilderness class each winter. I also love California native plants and am a trained naturalist.

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!

Hi! 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, etc.

My academic background includes a Post-Certificate DNP in Psychiatric Mental Health from the University of Illinois Chicago, a Doctorate of Nursing 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.

My work centers queer and transgender preteens, teens, and adults, as well as individuals with current or past foster care involvement. My clients may be feeling overwhelmed, questioning their identity, or don't know where to start with therapy. I can support you by helping you notice patterns and build trust in your own process.