A Remarkable Guide to Psychosis Test

A Remarkable Guide to Psychosis Test

Psychosis involves the disconnection from the reality. Persons with psychotic disorders are unable to determine what is actual or fake. Schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and various other mental illnesses are associated with this condition. However, if you want to know more about the psychosis test, then read this in-depth article. Moreover, after reading this article, you will also understand the diagnostic test for psychosis. So let’s dive into it!

Psychosis

Psychosis is a common mental disorder that involves various symptoms. Persons suffering from psychosis usually have a loss of contact with reality. Moreover, psychosis is common in bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and various other mental disorders. Psychotic disorder involves the generation of unwanted thoughts and emotions in the mind. In addition, psychosis can affect any person or gender. Recent studies have reported that approximately 100,000 US adults experience psychosis symptoms every year. 

Symptoms of Psychosis

The onset of psychosis symptoms occurs gradually. With time, symptoms can get severe without any appropriate treatment. In addition, a psychosis test is used to diagnose these symptoms. Some most common psychosis symptoms include:

  • Lack of concentration
  • Loss of passion or interest
  • Most often isolation
  • Lack of ability to participate in productive activities
  • Difficulty in thinking
  • Curious behavior for everyone
  • Sometimes, no emotions
  • Aggressive behaviour
  • Unhygienic body condition
  • Taboo thoughts
  • Auditory or visual hallucinations
  • Unexpected body response

Stages of Psychosis

Psychosis involves excess involvement in fantasy. There are three different stages of psychosis which include:

Prodromal stage

Prodromal is the initial stage of psychosis. This stage involves the slight difference between normal and abnormal behavior. This stage involves mild changes. Moreover, symptoms of the prodromal stage are usually ignored. However, the prodromal stage comprises the following symptoms:

  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Anger
  • Disturbance in the sleep-wake cycle

Acute stage

After the prodromal stage, the acute phase is initiated. This involves the occurrence of psychosis symptoms. Moreover, hallucinations and delusions start becoming visible in this stage. Both the affected person and surroundings can identify the symptoms. Psychotic patients have strange auditory signals.

Recovery

Recovery involves the last phase when a person seeks medical assistance. Timely medical care is required to prevent the consistent psychosis symptoms. Effective therapeutic procedures can cause immediate recovery. Furthermore, a person also remains secure from any other episode of psychosis. 

Causes of Psychosis

The exact cause of psychosis is still unknown. With the help of a psychosis test, you can find some causes. However, some common causes of psychosis include:

Environmental factors

Various environmental stress factors can result in psychotic symptoms. Furthermore, childhood trauma, brain injury, tumors, and intake of excessive drugs and alcohol can cause the onset of this disorder.

Chemical Imbalance

Anxiety or depression involves the different negative physiological changes in the brain. During the stress, a cortisol hormone is released, which in turn activates the parasympathetic nervous system. This system is responsible for the generation of fight-and-flight response. Increased levels of cortisol can result the psychosis. Moreover, apart from stress, some other changes also occur in the brain. The functioning of neurotransmitters is also affected. Specifically, the dopamine level is also elevated under the psychotic effects.

Genetics

Genes are the main units that are transferred from parent to child. Some researchers have reported that the psychosis tends to run in families. However, if one family member is affected with psychosis, then there is a greater probability of others getting affected.

Nutrition

A healthy diet is highly effective in stabilizing the mental health condition. An unhealthy diet can exhibit adverse effects on both the body and the brain. Furthermore, abuse of drugs, alcohol, or any other toxic product can also cause the development of psychotic symptoms.

Anxiety

Anxiety or depression is also responsible for the onset of psychotic symptoms. Prolonged stress or anxiety can activate the episodes of psychotic disorders. 

Psychosis and Schizophrenia

Both psychosis and schizophrenia are mental illnesses but include differences. Psychosis test can also determine the differences between them. Psychosis involves a collection of symptoms. Moreover, various mental disorders can result the psychosis. Furthermore, persons with psychotic disorders face complications in living a healthy and normal life. Schizophrenia is a complex behavioral disorder. This disorder can also result the psychosis. Persons suffering from schizophrenia are more likely to suffer from psychotic symptoms. 

Bipolar psychosis

People with bipolar psychotic conditions experience varied manic episodes. The psychotic situation occurs in both type I bipolar disorder and type II bipolar disorder. The most common symptoms of bipolar psychosis include:

  • Sudden rise in emotions
  • Extreme difficulty in concentration

Different environmental factors, genes, hormonal imbalances, and stress factors can result the bipolar psychosis. 

Psychosis test

An early mental psychosis test is significant for the early treatment of the symptoms. In addition, there is no specified test for psychotic disorder to positively determine the psychosis symptoms. However, the most common psychosis symptoms test involves the assessment of psychotic patients. Mental health experts usually ask some questions which include:

  • Are you having any previous medical history?
  • Are you taking any medicine for psychosis or any other illness?
  • How often do you experience delusions or hallucinations?
  • Have you ever suffered from any mental disorder e.g. bipolar disorder or schizophrenia?
  • Do you drink alcohol or any other harmful beverage?
  • Are you feeling any kind of disability?
  • How often do suicidal thoughts arise in your mind?
  • Do you feel pleasure in isolation?
  • Do you feel any unconsciousness during the psychotic episode?

Furthermore, patients are also provided some options along with some questions which include:

  • How many times you have heard the mysterious voices?
  • Are you facing any difficulty in explaining your mind concepts?
  • Do you feel any rejection from your surroundings?
  • Do you feel comfortable remaining indulged in your recurrent thoughts?
  • Are you linked with any mental beliefs?
  • Do you feel that someone is bothering you?
  • Are you the victim of any previous trauma?
  • Do you feel that you are not capable of doing something bigger?

According to the answers of above mentioned psychosis test, a psychiatrist can better suggest the treatment. 

Stress-induced psychosis

Stress is the main leading factor that can cause the development of various disorders. Both mental and behavioral disorders can occur due to stress, anxiety, or depression. In addition, there is also a stress-induced psychosis. Any distressing situation can result the stress-induced psychosis. Moreover, excessive use of drugs, alcohol consumption, and various other factors can cause psychosis.

Trauma and Psychosis

Any traumatic situation that occurs in the past can also induce psychosis. This situation mostly occurs in the children. If the situation persists, then it can also affect the teenage years. Affected persons are unable to focus on their useful life aspects. Both stress-induced psychosis and trauma-induced psychosis comprise multiple symptoms. However, the most common symptoms involve delusions, hallucinations, lack of ability for accurate perceptions, and confused thoughts. Symptoms of various other mental disorders can also trigger stress-induced psychosis.

Read more: A brief note on different types of trauma

Is psychosis a lifelong illness?

The intensity of psychosis symptoms and duration depends on various factors. Different psychosis test can also determine the causes to some extent. Moreover, a person’s physiological condition also matters to some extent. Likewise, the duration of stress-induced psychosis and drug-induced psychosis is quite different. Moreover, the duration of psychosis associated with different mental health disorders is also distinct. The duration of symptoms of psychosis in a person suffering from schizophrenia and psychosis is greater as compared to the normal episode of psychosis. Mental health disorders can elevate the severity of symptoms. The exact evaluation of psychotic symptoms is useful to determine that is psychosis a lifelong illness.

Furthermore, various studies have reported that early treatment of psychotic conditions can prevent the situation, as is psychosis a lifelong illness. Patients can observe better outcomes with early treatment. However, those who don’t consider their situation early can experience long-term symptoms. Therefore, to prevent the symptoms of psychosis and to have a quality life, effective treatment is required.

What is reality testing in psychosis?

Persons with psychosis are unable to distinguish between the reality and imaginary world. Therefore, the reality test is performed to assist the patients in determining the real facts. With this test, they can better identify what they are feeling and what exists in the real world. They can identify their inner thoughts and emotions and can deduce a fact that is based on reality. Some persons feel different unusual things such as seeing an imaginary world or hearing horror voices. They think that they are possessed by evil forces. However, the situation is entirely different. They just wrongly interpret their imaginary thoughts. Most of the time, they try to ignore such awkward situations instead of thinking about the main reason. Moreover, they don’t share their disturbing thoughts with their friends, family, or teachers due to fear of fun.

Likewise, psychosis leads to a blurry situation of thoughts and concepts in the mind. But reality testing makes it easy to see what the accurate situation is and how it looks. If such psychotic conditions are left untreated, then they can lead to anxiety or depression. Therefore, to have a quality life, it is extremely essential to know what is reality testing in psychosis. Children are mostly unaware of what to do to cope with such questions. However, some teenagers consider their situation and try for immediate help.

History of Reality Testing in Psychosis

Sigmund Freud, founder of psychoanalysis first explained the concept of reality testing. His main purpose was to characterize the inner brain world from the real-time external world. Moreover, Freud’s main goal was to utilize the reality test as an effective strategy to overcome the state of anxiousness.

Learning of Ego

Reality testing in psychosis specifically trains the inner ego to differentiate the inner and outer world. Reality testing is helpful in the differentiation of each kind of emotion in the brain. Furthermore, different hopes, faith, and concepts generated in the mind are also characterized by this reality testing.

Recognition of Brain Errors

Psychotic conditions are caused due to undesired errors in the brain. Therefore, the brain misguides the person to respond, based on the external stimuli. The main abnormality is a present in the mind which generates errors in thinking. However, prolonged thinking errors can result the anxiety, depression, or various other mental disorders.

Rise in innate confidence

Persons with psychotic disorders don’t consider their inner capabilities. In the case of each failure, they just blame their abilities. For example, if they fail to get good marks in an exam, they think that they will never achieve excellence. However, this concept is extremely wrong. This is just due to their inner fear. Reality testing can guide them in that they are just underestimating their innate competency.

When do you need the Reality test for psychosis?

If you are suffering from psychosis and your current medical situation is preventing you from participating in productive activities, you need this test. Moreover, if your imaginary thoughts are altering your emotional reactions, then a reality test in psychosis will be super beneficial for you.

Read more: Is panic disorder a disability?

Acute psychosis

Acute psychosis is also referred to as a brief psychotic disorder. However, in most cases, acute psychosis is also known as the first episode of psychosis. Approximately, 3% of the persons experience acute psychosis in their life. The onset of the symptoms occurs gradually.

Persons with acute psychosis usually experience the following symptoms:

  • Confusion in mind
  • Mental disturbances
  • Hallucinations
  • Behavioral changes
  • Difficulty in speech
  • Disorganized thoughts
  • Lack of passion
  • Loss of interest
  • Pregnancy issues

Acute psychosis diagnostic tests

The identification of acute psychosis is significant in preventing complications. Different diagnostic tests specifically play a role in the diagnosis of acute psychosis. Moreover, they can also identify the different comorbid conditions in the body. Likewise, different lab tests can also identify psychotic disorders.

What is the role of a Therapist for psychosis?

Although there are different therapies to treat psychosis, a therapist can better understand the situation. Instead of direct initiation of treatments, it is better to identify the symptoms and causes of the disorder. Renewed Mental Health group provides various top-skilled therapists for psychosis. They can perfectly analyze each episode of psychosis and can diagnose the symptoms. You can also utilize the different psychosis tests. In addition, their suggested therapeutic procedures always lead to better outcomes.

Concluding Remarks

Psychotic disorder involves the occurrence of multiple symptoms at the same time. Psychosis leads to abnormal thinking and perceptions. Hallucinations and delusions are the most common symptoms of this disorder. Furthermore, they are also identified as the most commonly identified symptoms of the psychosis test. Different diagnostic tests for psychosis can evaluate the symptoms of this disorder. However, if you are suffering from any kind of psychotic disorder, then Renewed Mental Health Group experts are here for you. You can have 24/7 feasible access to them. Ultimately, you will cherish your mental well-being.

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Auriana Jones

Associate Marriage and Family Therapist

Hello! My name is Auriana Jones and I am so excited you’re here. I would like to introduce myself as a dedicated Associate Marriage and Family Therapist, with multiple years of clinical experience and over 10+ years of experience within the healthcare field.

My journey here is a unique one as it began while I was in medical training in an emergency room, during what may be a once in a lifetime challenge that we all faced together: a worldwide pandemic. As I began to take notice of the impact that loss, grief, trauma, and despair had on each patient, I knew I wanted to help people through these experiences. Prior to this, I earned a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Health Science, with an emphasis in Community Health from California State Dominguez Hills. After my experience in the ER, I went on to work in several mental health settings, working in the community and in the psychiatric hospitals. I then earned a Master of Arts degree in Clinical Psychology, with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy from Pepperdine University.

As a compassionate Associate Marriage and Family Therapist, I offer a judge free zone and evidence-based approach to mental health and emotional well-being. I focus on helping individuals navigate life’s challenges, whether they are struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem building, severe trauma, relationship issues, “feeling lost” or just want to focus on personal growth. I have had the privilege of navigating the healing journey with a myriad of diverse groups including individual adults, children, families, and couples.
A large part of my job is to make sure you feel safe and comfortable to share what weighs you down. With a deep commitment to fostering a supportive environment, I utilize a range of therapeutic techniques tailored to each client’s unique needs. I’m truly a believer in the power of collaboration; you are the driver, and I am the GPS, providing alternative routes. My approach integrates cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical-behavioral therapy (DBT), mindfulness practices, family systems and psychodynamic insights to promote healing and resilience.

When I’m not helping others, I am a Bay Area native and a Doodle dog mom who loves camping, reading from my Kindle, trying new recipes, and attending anything that has live music playing. I also love exploring and trying new restaurants and I’m always open to suggestions!

My goal is to empower you to gain insight, overcome obstacles, and lead a more fulfilling life, all resulting in lasting change. If you are looking for a thoughtful and experienced guide on your journey to mental wellness, I am here to support you every step of the way. I can’t wait to help you through your challenges, but I am most excited to be there to celebrate your wins.

Kimberly Leong

Associate Marriage and Family Therapist

Hello and welcome. My name is Kimberly Leong, and I’m delighted you’re here.

It is understandable to feel stuck, despair, and hopeless when you face challenges, setbacks, and suffering in life. Whatever waters you’re going through, my desire is to be a warm, safe person in which you feel the ability to bring out your truest self in my therapy room without experiencing judgment or criticism. We cannot change unless we are met with safety and unconditional regard, and I hope to be that person for you. (You may not even be going through a rough patch currently, and you just want to explore what makes you, you. I am here for that too.)

My path to becoming a therapist began with having experienced healing in my own individual therapy almost a decade ago, as well as navigating mental illness myself and wanting to lessen the stigma around the topic of mental health. I earned my M.A. in Marriage and Family Therapy from Biola University where I immersed myself in understanding the complexities of oneself, relationships, and the myriad ways in which we connect with one another. Through my studies, research, and first-hand experience of being on the other couch in the therapy room, I’ve come to appreciate the profound impact that compassionate guidance and a safe therapeutic space can have on personal development.

I am happy to work with individuals, couples, and families of all backgrounds and contexts, and I especially enjoy working with those who experience difficulties in the areas of relationship and interpersonal issues, depression and bipolar disorder, exploration of racial and ethnic identity, life transitions, and exploration of faith & spirituality.

Just as I have been incredibly blessed by the wonderful, compassionate therapists in my own personal life, my hope is that I help meet you and encourage you on your on-going journey to find healing and wholeness. It would be an honor and a privilege to walk with you through your highs and low’s and everything in between. I believe we can work together. Please know and remember, you are not alone.

Shaheena Gazipura

Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Shaheena Gazipura is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with 9+ years of experience in mental health care in inpatient and outpatient settings. Shaheena received her Master of Science in Nursing degree from Western University of Health Sciences Pomona. Shaheena began working as a nurse at an adult psychiatric inpatient unit then transitioned to the geriatric psychiatric inpatient unit at USC Verdugo Hills Hospital. In addition to working with Renewed Mental Health Group, she also works as a Nursing Clinical Instructor for the mental health rotation for a large community college.

Shaheena believes that mental health is a fundamental pillar of overall well-being and is an advocate for reducing the stigma. She believes in providing comprehensive and compassionate care that honors each individual’s unique experiences and challenges. Shaheena’s goal is to create a supportive and nonjudgmental environment to work alongside with her patients to meet their goals.

In her free time, Shaheena enjoys trying new restaurants, exercising, and planning trips.

Brittany DeGuzman

Associate Marriage and Family Therapist

Hello there! I am an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (AMFT 146285) at Renewed Mental Health Group, working under the supervision of Carly Rorem, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (119474). I hold a Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology, where I gained experience working with both children and adults.

I am here to support you through a range of issues, including grief and loss, relationship challenges, communication breakdowns, and life transitions or career changes. Additionally, I can help with anxiety, depression, and past trauma. My passion lies in assisting individuals who have experienced loss, whether recent or in the past, by helping them define and navigate their unique grieving process. I walk alongside my clients through their grief, offering support and guidance to honor their loved ones.

My therapeutic approach is person-centered, focusing on cultivating a strong therapeutic relationship, which I believe is essential for any journey through mental health and self-discovery. I firmly believe that you are the expert on your own life. In therapy, this means we will work collaboratively, trusting your intuition about what tools and strategies work best for you. If something isn’t working, we’ll find different solutions together. My goal is to provide a judgment-free space where you can authentically express your experiences, feelings, and struggles. I tailor treatment to the individual, incorporating various modalities such as Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and other humanistic approaches.

I would be honored to support you on your healing journey, committed to providing a safe and supportive space that fosters healing and growth.

Food is my love language! I enjoy cooking for myself and others, as well as exploring new restaurants. I also love going to the beach, stand-up paddle boarding, and soaking up the sun. My other hobbies include reading, traveling, being in nature, and swimming. 

DR. Barrios

Board-Certified Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist

Dr. Carlos Barrios is a Board-Certified Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist with over two decades of experience in mental health care. His expertise in telepsychiatry has allowed him to serve patients across California and beyond. In his practice, Dr Barrios integrates metabolic and functional methodologies, focusing on guiding patients toward medication independence and emphasizing the connection between physical and mental health.

Outside of his professional life, Dr Barrios is passionate about kettlebell training, which helps him maintain my physical and mental wellness. He cherishes visiting his family in Guatemala, to reconnecting with his cultural roots and rejuvenating his spirit. Dr Barrios is also deeply involved in transcendental meditation and rucking, practices that not only provide him with tranquility but also keep him grounded and connected to nature. These hobbies reflect his commitment to a holistic approach to health, both personally and professionally.

Keelan Aponte

Associate Marriage and Family Therapist

Keelan Aponte is a dedicated Associate Marriage and Family Therapist at Renewed Mental Health Group, under the supervision of Carly Rorem, LMFT #119474. With a solid foundation in psychology from the University of California, Riverside, and a Master’s degree in Marital and Family Therapy from Loma Linda University, Keelan brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his practice.

His clinical journey has seen him working directly with children, young adults, and families, offering support to individuals facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Keelan’s experience spans diverse socioeconomic backgrounds, religious affiliations, cultural identities, genders, and sexual orientations, reflecting his deep appreciation for the uniqueness of each individual.

Keelan is committed to fostering cultural competence in his therapeutic approach, ensuring that every client feels heard and respected. He creates a nurturing environment where clients can freely express their thoughts and emotions without fear of judgment, recognizing the importance of validating personal experiences.

While proficient in various therapeutic modalities, Keelan’s passion lies in Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), which resonates deeply with his personal philosophy. He believes in the inherent potential for change within each individual and focuses on exploring the meanings we attach to our thoughts, behaviors, and experiences. By shifting the focus towards solutions and empowering clients to discover their own strengths, Keelan facilitates the creation of new, positive patterns in their lives.

In collaboration with his clients, Keelan embarks on a journey of self-discovery and transformation, guiding them towards a brighter, more fulfilling future. He firmly believes that every individual possesses the resilience and inner wisdom to overcome life’s challenges, drawing strength from past triumphs and embracing the possibility of new beginnings.

Mark Youssef

Associate Marriage and Family Therapist

Hi there! I am so glad you are here. I am an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist at Renewed Mental Health Group
(AMFT# 142301) under the supervision of Carly Rorem, Licensed Marriage, and Family Therapist (119474). I received my Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology, with an Emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy from Azusa Pacific University. 

In my spare time, I enjoy doing outdoor activities like going to the beach, snorkeling, watching sunsets, and capturing moments through photography. I also cherish moments spent with loved ones and enjoy exploring new coffee shops.

In therapy, we often uncover wounds that haven’t fully healed. As these wounds resurface, therapy begins the gradual process of healing. Your bravery in seeking help is commendable, and I’m honored to support you on this journey. Together, we’ll navigate the complexities you face, uncovering insights along the way. You will be met here with compassion and support. I will walk alongside your journey with warmth and acceptance.

My passion lies in working and being committed to creating a safe space for diverse individuals: including teens and their families, adults, LGBTQ + individuals and clients of all backgrounds and identities who are facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, family conflicts, self-esteem issues, PTSD, OCD, OCPD, and ADHD. 

I typically approach my clients as a person-centered therapist through an attachment lens, providing unconditional positive regard, empathy, and compassion within a safe and nonjudgmental space. Maintaining authenticity and humanity in my interactions with my clients is key, as I strive to provide a secure emotional connection. Alongside this, I incorporate various therapeutic modalities, drawing from different clinical approaches such as CBT, humanistic therapies, SFT, and psychodynamic approaches to meet each individual’s needs. 

I am fluent in English and Arabic, facilitating effective communication with clients of diverse linguistics background, and possess experience in working with individuals aged 17 and above. 

I would be honored to accompany you through your emotional pain, help you navigate your thoughts, and support you in healing that pain. I will be here with you and for you on your journey towards self-acceptance and growth, collaboratively working together towards your personal goals. My objective? Empower you to live authentically. Let’s embark on this transformative journey together!

Nalleli Garrido

Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP

Nalleli Garrido, PMHNP-BC is a Board Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Nalleli graduated from California State University, Long Beach. Nalleli has over 7+ years of experience working with underserved communities with diverse mental health diagnoses. She loves to navigate new hobbies first hand in order to ensure patients gain meaningful coping skills. Her priority is to help patients take control of their mental health through patient education, psychotherapy and medication management.

Nalleli Garrido has experience working with various populations across the lifespan and her areas of focus include: Depression, Anxiety, Adjustment Disorder, Bipolar disorder, ADHD, and PTSD. Nalleli has experience working with incarcerated patients at several county jails, various acute and in-patient settings, and community mental health services.

Patients enjoy Nalleli’s empathetic care and her focus on identifying self-care measures to assist in therapeutic regimens. She strives to develop individualized care plans alongside client’s desired

Carly Rorem

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist

Carly Rorem is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist at Renewed Mental Health Group. She graduated with her Bachelor’s degree in psychology in 2015 from Biola University. She returned and received her Master of Art in Marriage and Family Therapy from Hope International University in 2017.

You may be navigating the complex terrain of depression, anxiety, or trauma, facing significant life changes, or seeking enhancement in your relationships. They seek a nonjudgmental, supportive partner in their therapeutic journey who passionately believes in their capacity for change and healing. Together, we’ll strive for resilience, understanding, and a path forward tailored to their unique goals and needs.

As a marriage and family therapist, I offer guidance to strengthen relationships, providing a nonjudgmental, supportive space for healing and connection. I am dedicated to supporting your grown with a nonjudgmental, empathetic approach. Let’s navigate your challenges together in a safe and supportive space.

Brittlin Fagundes

Associate Marriage and Family Therapist

Brittlin Fagundes is an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist at Renewed Mental Health Group. She graduated with her bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Sonoma State University. Brittlin then returned to her hometown of San Diego, California, where she received her Master of Arts in Clinical Counseling from Point Loma Nazarene University.

In her spare time, Brittlin enjoys being outdoors, spending time with her family and friends, playing and watching sports, and listening to music. Brittlin finds these activities very therapeutic, as they allow her to clear her mind and reflect and provide her pure happiness. Brittlin works with her clients to find their hobbies and interests, which can be great coping and grounding skills for needy individuals.

Brittlin has experience with various ages and populations- children, adolescents, adults and elderly, groups, LGBTQ+ individuals and families of all different socioeconomic statuses. In addition, Brittlin has worked with various diagnoses such as anxiety, depression, addiction, Bipolar Disorder, schizophrenia, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Brittlin takes pride in her ability to have a personable relationship with her clients, as she finds it vital for them to feel comfortable in her presence.

Brittlin understands that everyone carries a unique story with extraordinary hardships and stressors. She is dedicated to creating a safe and supportive environment where her clients can overcome obstacles and work toward positive change. Brittlin believes therapy should be a collaborative process that fosters personal growth and healing. Overall, Brittlin strives to use various therapeutic techniques to empower her clients to overcome their obstacles, working towards self- discovery.

Carissa Mendez-Munder

Associate Clinical Social Worker

Carissa Mendez-Munder is a Mental Health Therapist at Renewed mental Health group. Carissa is a Registered Associate Clinical Social Worker with the California Board of Behavioral Sciences. Carissa graduated with her master’s in clinical social work from Baylor University.

Carissa’s education and work experience have allowed her to work with a diverse clientele ranging from 4 to 100 years old and across all economic and cultural backgrounds. Carissa has offered individual, group, and family counseling in both English and Spanish for these diverse caseloads. Carissa has provided counseling, emotional and communication skills groups, and grief and anger management groups at the elementary, middle, and high school ages. Carissa works most commonly with diagnoses of Anxiety, Depression, Anger management, life-stage struggles, adjustment disorders, ADHD, family conflict (including non-traditional family arrangements, LGBTQIA+ youth), prolonged grief, and PTSD.

Carissa’s experience has given her more perspective on how external influences, systems, and traumatic experiences in a person’s life can affect their overall health and well-being. Carissa works with her clients using a strengths-based perspective and person-centered approaches to counseling to sharpen tools, skills, and any other client strengths. Carissa works to create a “toolkit” with her clients to better work with these external influences. Carissa believes that every person can change and has the tools to do so. Her role as a therapist is to draw attention to these tools and strengths and help the client find their motivations. Carissa believes in a person’s inherent worth and dignity and their right to live a fulfilling life. Carissa takes pride in seeing her clients achieve their therapy goals and grow their confidence and self-determination. Carissa offers a safe space for her clients for in-person or telehealth sessions and is currently accepting new patients.

Taryn A. Joyce

PMHNP-BC

Taryn is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with 6+ years of experience in mental health care. Taryn earned her Masters’ of Science in Nursing degree from California State University, Long Beach. Taryn specializes in ADHD, anxiety disorders, depression/mood disorders, schizophrenia, PTSD, and personality disorders. Taryn utilizes a patient-centered approach emphasizing collaboration and empowerment, ensuring each individual receives personalized care tailored to their unique needs.

Taryn has years of experience in inpatient and outpatient mental health settings, most recently in the community mental health setting, serving clients from various backgrounds, ethnicities, cultures, genders, and socioeconomic statuses. As a committed advocate, Taryn brings a blend of expertise in psychiatric nursing, evidence-based interventions, and a compassionate approach to foster positive outcomes. Taryn looks forward to partnering with you on your journey to mental wellness.

Alice Kim

PMHNP-BC

Alice Kim is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. Alice has many years of experience in psychiatry in acute inpatient and outpatient settings.

She believes that mental health is essential but is often a forgotten or invisible part of healthcare.She wants to be an advocate and caregiver for the vulnerable population in a compassionate, empathetic, and nonjudgmental approach.

Alice has made it her life’s passion to utilize her skills to help others aware of their illness and offer patients and their families quality care, support, and guidance during a time of difficulty.

Alice Kim 은 이사회 인증을 받은 정신과 정신 건강 간호사 실무자입니다.

앨리스는 급성기 입원환자 및 외래에서 수년간 정신과에서 근무한 경험이 있다.

그녀는 정신 건강은 필수적이지만, 종종 의료에서 잊혀지거나 보이지 않는 부분이라고 믿는다. 그녀는 연민적이고, 공감적이며, 비판적이지 않은 접근으로 취약한 사람들을 옹호하고 돌보는 사람이 되기를 원한다. Alice는 자신의 기술을 활용하여 다른 사람들이 자신의 질병을 인지하도록 돕고, 환자와 가족의 간병, 지원 및 어려운 시기에 안내를 제공하는 것을 자신의 삶의 열정으로 삼았습니다.

Alice는 2개 국어를 구사하며 한국어에 능통하기 때문에 한국어로 말하는 환자에게 도움이 될 수 있는데, 이는 혼란을 없애고 환자 만족을 제공하며 양질의 의료 서비스를 제공하는 데 도움이 되기 때문입니다.

Cristian Cuevas

PMHNP-BC

Cristian Cuevas, PMHNP-BC, is a highly skilled board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over seven years of experience in inpatient psychiatry and mental health.

A California State University Long Beach graduate, Cristian also earned recognition as a board-certified psychiatric mental health registered nurse. With a wealth of expertise in adult psychiatric care across the lifespan, Cristian has successfully diagnosed and treated a diverse range of mental health disorders.

Additionally, his specialized experience in child and adolescent inpatient populations further enhances his ability to provide comprehensive and compassionate mental health care.