Find a psychiatrist in Santa Cruz, CA — covered by insurance

I believe therapy and psychiatric care should feel human, not clinical, rushed, or impersonal. My goal is to create a space where you feel genuinely heard, respected, and supported from the very first conversation. I take time to understand your story, your values, and what you want your life to look like, not just your symptoms.

I bring over a decade of experience working in mental health and addiction, and I use a balanced approach that blends evidence-based treatment with compassion and real connection. I do not believe in one-size-fits-all care. Your treatment is collaborative, flexible, and designed to support long-term growth, not just short-term relief.

Above all, you should know that you will not be treated like a diagnosis. You will be treated like a person.

I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides compassionate, patient-centered, and evidence-based care. I strive to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where you feel heard and supported. Together, we develop personalized treatment plans focused on your goals, well-being, and long-term mental health.

I'm Saby Kirpal, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to providing comprehensive mental health care. I hold Master's degrees from Chamberlain University and Walden University, graduating with Presidential Honors, reflecting my commitment to clinical excellence. My diverse professional background spans inpatient psychiatric hospitals, residential treatment centers, and outpatient clinics, giving me insight into mental health treatment at every level of care. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, autism spectrum disorders, eating disorders, and substance use disorders across age groups. My experience includes working with children as young as eight through adults in crisis stabilization, residential treatment, and ongoing medication management.

What makes my practice unique is the integration of my nursing background with psychiatric expertise. I understand how physical health, medications, lifestyle factors, and mental health interconnect. Being trilingual in English, Hindi, and Punjabi, with conversational Spanish, allows me to serve diverse communities and appreciate how culture shapes mental health experiences.

I've worked from UCSF Health to community clinics, teaching me that excellent care isn't about the setting—it's about the relationship. Whether you're seeking help for the first time, between providers, or managing ongoing conditions, I'm here to partner with you. My approach centers on listening first, explaining clearly, and making decisions together. Mental health treatment should never feel like something done to you, but rather something we navigate together. I'm committed to creating a space where you feel respected, understood, and genuinely supported.

I am a dual board-certified Nurse Practitioner specializing in both Family Practice and Psychiatric Mental Health. With a foundation in whole-person, evidence-based care, I integrate medical management with psychotherapy and lifestyle interventions to support mental and physical wellness.

My background spans outpatient psychiatry, primary care, home health, and assisted living settings, allowing me to understand the unique needs of patients across all stages of life. I have extensive experience treating mood and anxiety disorders, trauma-related conditions, and chronic medical comorbidities that impact emotional well-being.

I believe in creating a collaborative, compassionate, and culturally sensitive environment where patients feel heard and empowered to take an active role in their care. My approach focuses on building balance—supporting both the mind and body—through medication management, therapy, and integrative care strategies.

I work with adults facing ADHD, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, sleep issues, and substance use, offering clear, practical help—no guesswork. You might feel overwhelmed, stuck, have trouble sleeping, or struggle to focus. We follow a structured approach to understand your situation and develop a treatment plan that progresses. I provide psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and focused follow-up using evidence-based and trauma-informed strategies. The process is simple, with clear steps and adjustments based on your progress. If you're ready to proceed, reach out.

It is my prayer to build a practice that helps you reach a place where your mental health is truly at the forefront. My hope is that with each appointment—and each day—you feel supported in moving closer to the best version of yourself.

I’m here to make this journey feel gentle, welcoming, and human. I keep things clear and simple so you can focus on what matters, not the overwhelm. My style is warm, encouraging, and a little poetic—because softness helps us breathe. Let’s take this step together, one calm moment at a time.