Bipolar disorder therapists & psychiatrists in Encinitas, CA

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.

• Outstanding Patient Reviews - Google reviews (Access Psych Meds)
• Experienced Mental Health Provider (13 years) assisting clients with ADHD (adult) Anxiety Depression Chronic Pain Chronic Sleep problems Mood disorder PTSD: Military combat, childhood & sexual trauma Alcohol Use Disorder
• Dual Master’s Prepared
• ANCC Dual Board Certified - Psych Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Clinical Nurse Specialist
• Veteran 22 yrs retired US Navy Commander/O-5
• Licensed in 5 States - AZ, CA, OR, MD, WA

I believe people carry far more strength, clarity, and resilience than they often realize. My role is to help you understand the emotional patterns and internal narratives that shape your experience, so you can move through life with greater freedom and self‐trust. I’m engaged, attuned, and honest in the room — offering reflection, insight, and steady collaboration as we explore what’s happening beneath the surface. We work at a pace that feels grounded for you, creating space for real change to germinate.

I hold a Bachelor's degree in Psychology and a Master's degree in Social Work. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), with extensive experience in both community settings and private practice. I specialize in supporting women through the unique challenges they face in life. I offer a compassionate, empathetic approach to help women navigate anxiety, depression, struggles with identity, and the journey toward recognizing their self-worth.

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in California with a Master's degree in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University. Over the past 15 years, I have worked with a wide range of clients and have developed a practice treating substance use disorders, personality disorders, mood disorders, and executive functioning challenges. I am also trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and incorporate evidence-based techniques tailored to each client's unique needs.

Before becoming a therapist, I earned a Juris Doctor and an MBA, experiences that give me a unique perspective on the complex personal, professional, and life challenges many clients face. Whether you are struggling with addiction, anxiety, depression, emotional regulation, relationship difficulties, or feeling stuck, my goal is to provide practical tools, compassionate support, and a collaborative environment where meaningful change can occur.

I have been practicing therapy for over 15 years. I graduated from San Diego State in 2005 and have helped people work through problems ranging from anxiety and depression, to relationship and health problems. I have worked in residential and intensive outpatient programs but for the past 5 years I have been providing therapy through Telehealth. Mostly I have found people to be astounding in their strength and resiliency and have greatly enjoyed being part of their growth process.

I work to help bring out the best version of yourself once we develop a trusting relationship. I have been facilitating growth and healing for over a decade with my individual clients, couples and families. In my prior career I was a director of Marketing Analytics and experienced the challenges of balancing career and family and now I often help those navigating similar challenges. I look forward to meeting with you.