Call us: (714) 683-1472
e-mail: info@orangecoastpsychiatry.com

New Patients

Process to Progress

The mental health recovery process for psychiatric patients varies from one person to another. Orange Coast Psychiatry allows you to experience a hassle-free mental health recovery process.

Orange Coast Psychiatry  knows that making the first move in attaining mental health support is not easy. We are here to ensure that the whole process is smooth and stress-free. Our mental health care providers are committed to providing personalized, high-quality, professional mental health services.

You can get rid of your mental health issues today by clicking on the button “Schedule an Appointment” or clicking here

Once you have filled out our intake form, this helps us to gather the basic information about your current mental health state.

After you have filled in the intake forms provided, our team will assess your information, and you will hear from us through our official email address info@orangecoastpsychiatry.com or via an official phone call to set up an initial appointment. It is advised to check your spam and junk mail so that you don’t miss out on our email. 

If you are a health insurance user then our team will confirm the details of your insurance plan within 24-72 hours.

Once you have filled out your intake forms, our team will review your form to determine if we can effectively assist you. We will then email you from info@orangecoastpsychiatry.com , or by phone to set up the first appointment with our mental health professional. Once we have set up your first appointment we request you to fill out other forms, so that our mental health professionals can get an idea of the best way in which our mental health services can benefit you the most.

Before your first appointment, you will be required to fill out additional forms to help our mental health professionals ensure that all legal paperwork has been completed.
The first Interview comprises questions related to the mental health problems you are experiencing. During this visit, we will also be able to see if our mental health platform is the best fit for you in treating your mental health issues. Furthermore, the first visit’s usual duration depending on information obtained usually is up to 60 minutes, and 1-2 visits.
Follow-up sessions hold great importance in elevating the effects of mental health treatment. Moreover, the meetings with our mental health provider occur every week depending on the patient’s mental health issues and the level of mental health progress made.
As you continue with the mental disorder treatment plan, our main concentration will be on the care plan and any modifications. We continue to offer the best of mental health care to you.

Already submitted your Initial Appointment Request Forms?

We appreciate you for completing and returning your Initial Appointment Request Forms. There is still a “New Patient History Form,” please fill if you have not done it. The completion of this form will assist our providers in understanding your history, as well as your mental health needs. The information regarding your past medical history will help us and our providers to develop an appropriate treatment plan that can help achieve good mental health. Please note, that the given form needs to be completed 24-48 hours before the appointment. This form should be filled out and submitted as soon as possible because failing to do this might cause a delay in your appointment.

FAQ

Global Questions

Mental health comprises your emotional, social, and psychological well-being. Moreover, the way we think, feel, and cope with life all depends on sound mental health. Orange Coast Psychiatry is all about helping you get a better understanding of mental health and the importance it holds in living a quality life.

There are numerous known mental health disorders although some of these are common and affect your mental health potential such as bipolar disorder, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), anxiety disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Orange Coast Psychiatry is here to help you discover the best ways of managing your mental health concerns, such as meditation, exercising, sleeping well, and stress management techniques.

Determining when to seek professional help depends on the severity of your mental health symptoms. It is an ideal time for you to consult a mental health professional when your mental health symptoms start to affect your day-to-day activities.

Learn about incredible available treatments for mental health conditions depending on your mental health needs like support groups, psychiatric medications for mental illness, cognitive-behavioral therapy, psychotherapy, and lifestyle changes.

Make an appointment today!

We believe that each individual deserves to stay mentally active and strong to enjoy the peace of life. We provide a diverse network of top mental health providers who are devoted to serving each individual in treating their mental health issues. Consult with our experts to get incredible mental health solutions.

Shaheena Gazipura

PMHNP-BC

Richard Samedra, PMHNP-BC, is a Board Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He brings over 12 years of experience in the mental health field, working with clients facing a wide range of acute and chronic mental health conditions. His journey began as a Licensed Vocational Nurse and Charge Nurse at Westminster Therapeutic Residential Treatment, where he supported clients dealing with anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and substance use disorders. Richard’s dedication was centered on helping these individuals improve their mental health and transition to a lower level of care, whether that meant returning to their families, a board and care facility, or a sober-living environment.

Motivated by a growing passion for mental health care, Richard pursued his Registered Nurse (RN) education at Saddleback Community College and later transitioned to La Palma Intercommunity Hospital Behavioral Health. In this role, he specialized in geriatric psychiatry, working with older adults experiencing conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, dementia, depression, and anxiety. This experience solidified his commitment to mental health, leading him to work at Bellflower Community Hospital, where he provided care for patients experiencing severe psychiatric crises, including suicidal ideation, manic and depressive episodes, substance use disorders, and exacerbated schizophrenia symptoms.

Inspired by the impactful work of PMHNPs at Bellflower, Richard enrolled in the Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program at Azusa Pacific University. To broaden his expertise, he worked full-time at College Hospital Costa Mesa while completing his studies. There, he gained comprehensive experience across various units, including adolescent, acute men’s and women’s, stabilization, and detox/med-surg. Now, as a PMHNP, Richard is committed to leveraging his diverse background and knowledge to provide compassionate, comprehensive care to those in need.

Richard currently practices as a Nurse Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Orange Coast Psychiatry, where he is supervised by Dr. Montgomery.

 

Shaheena Gazipura

PMHNP-BC

Shaheena Gazipura is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 9 years of dedicated experience in both inpatient and outpatient mental health care. She earned her Master of Science in Nursing from Western University of Health Sciences in Pomona, California.

Shaheena began her career working on an adult psychiatric inpatient unit before transitioning to the geriatric psychiatric inpatient unit at USC Verdugo Hills Hospital. In addition to her clinical work, Shaheena also serves as a Nursing Clinical Instructor, guiding the next generation of nurses through their mental health rotations at a large community college.

Shaheena is a passionate advocate for mental health, believing that it is a fundamental pillar of overall well-being. She is committed to reducing the stigma surrounding mental illness and strives to provide comprehensive, compassionate care that honors each individual’s unique experiences and challenges. Her goal is to create a supportive, nonjudgmental environment where patients feel empowered to work alongside her in achieving their mental health goals.

Outside of her professional life, Shaheena enjoys exploring new culinary experiences, staying active through exercise, and planning her next travel adventures.

Shaheena currently practices as a Nurse Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Orange Coast Psychiatry, where she is supervised by Dr. Barrios.

Clint Nacar

PMHNP-BC

Clint Nacar, PMHNP-BC is a Board Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Mr. Nacar graduated from Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science. Currently Mr. Nacar works in an inpatient psychiatry unit at a leading academic medical center in Los Angeles, Renewed Mental Health Group, and Orange Coast Psychiatry

Mr. Nacar brings over 7+ years of experience with the mental health population. He works to help patients take control of their mental health through patient education, psychotherapy and medication management. Mr. Nacar’s areas of focus include: Depression, Anxiety, Adjustment Disorder, Bipolar disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Mr. Nacar treats children ages 6+, adolescents, and adults, offering both in-person services and telehealth at Renewed Mental Health Group.

With the collaboration of each patient, Mr. Nacar strives to develop individualized plans of care addressing each patient’s unique situation and concerns. He also encourages each patient to take charge of their mental health through a holistic approach while also employing the latest evidence based practices in treatment.

Clint is one of our most experienced Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioners at Orange Coast Psychiatry and is 103NP Licensed in the State of California.

Cristian Cuevas

PMHNP-BC (Fluent in Spanish)

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.

Cristian Cuevas is the Lead Nurse Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Orange Coast Psychiatry and is supervised by Dr Barrios.

Griselda Hernandez

PMHNP-BC (Fluent in Spanish)

As a licensed Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a robust background in psychiatric and substance abuse nursing, Griselda provides compassionate, evidence-based care to individuals facing mental health and addiction challenges. The core of her practice focuses on promoting holistic wellness, fostering resilience, and empowering patients in their recovery journey. Specializing in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of adolescents with various mental health disorders, Griselda strives to create a therapeutic environment where patients feel valued, respected, and supported.
“My approach is grounded in years of diverse experience, including work in psychiatric units and medical detox units for both adults and adolescents. This extensive background has equipped me with the skills and knowledge to manage complex psychiatric and substance abuse conditions effectively. I am committed to staying updated with the latest advancements in psychiatric care, integrating cutting-edge therapies and best practices into my treatment plans. Collaboration is key to my practice; I work closely with multidisciplinary teams, families, and community resources to provide coordinated and comprehensive care tailored to each individual’s unique needs.”
Griselda holds a Master of Science in Nursing with a specialization in Psychiatric-Mental Health from West Coast University, and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa. Additionally, she is fluent in the English and Spanish language, enhancing her ability to connect with a diverse patient population.
Griselda currently practices as a Nurse Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Orange Coast Psychiatry, where she is supervised by Dr. Barrios.

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.