I received a Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University, a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from San Diego State University, and an Associate Degree in Nursing from San Diego City College. I am board-certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) from the ANCC. While completing clinical rotations, I was immediately drawn to the field of psychiatry. I saw how compassion and empathy – skills I’d developed over a 19-year career in veterinary medicine – were extremely valuable and immediately transferable to patients experiencing mental health issues. Since then, I’ve worked in an acute care inpatient psychiatry unit and on a consult team treating patients with substance use disorders. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am committed to helping patients achieve their mental health goals. Growing up in New Mexico, I was surrounded by vibrant Southwestern culture, delicious food, and otherworldly landscapes. Throughout high school and college, I immersed myself in the music and theater scenes and became active in the queer community after coming out at age 16. Living as a young queer kid in a relatively conservative town presented many challenges, but those experiences made me understand and appreciate the importance of visibility, inclusion, trust, and mutual respect. As a person and a practitioner, I embrace everyone I meet with curiosity and an open mind. I believe that this creates a judgment-free, welcoming environment that can nurture and grow relational trust. With clients, my priority is to help them feel seen, heard, and valued. I believe that fostering a rich personal life is what allows me to show up for my clients and provide the best care possible. When not working, I can be found attending/traveling to see live shows, or listening/dancing to one of my favorite records at home (current rotation: Metronomy, Little Dragon, Stromae, and Charlotte Adigéry). I share my home with my husband and our two spunky senior pups who frequently demand our undivided attention. I also love traveling, hiking, cycling, and pretending to be good at roller skating.

What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?

In our first session, we will start with introductions and I'll ask you to share with me the main goals you hope to achieve during our time working together. After that, we will start a thorough diagnostic evaluation during which I will ask you many questions about your mental health history. Upon completion of this evaluation, I will discuss with you my recommendations for treatment and answer any questions you might have so that we can come to an agreement about how best to proceed.

What treatment methods and tools do you utilize?

I prefer to use a combination of Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, and/or Strengths-Based CBT with each of my clients based on their specific needs.

Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.

I offer a queer perspective centered in mindfulness and current evidence-based treatment. My philosophy of practice is to approach all clients with curiosity and an open mind, offering psychotherapy as the first line of treatment.

About Justin Roberts, PMHNP-BC