PA Mindset Matters

Welcome to The Mindset Matters, the podcast where psychiatry, medicine, and human connection meet — hosted by psychiatric PAs Mercedes Dodge and Jessica Spissinger. In this episode, we explore how Physician Associates are stepping into psychiatry to close the mental health access gap. From the national psychiatrist shortage to post-COVID demand, Mercedes and Jessica break down what it takes to tra...

Join Mercedes Dodge, PA-C, and Jessica Spissinger, PA-C, in this inspiring Mindset Matters episode featuring Sarah Tatko, a psychiatric PA who has carved her own path from speech therapy to advanced psychiatric care. Together, they explore the art and science of ketamine therapy, blending clinical precision with human vulnerability. Hear Sarah’s reflections on integrating CBT with ketamine-assiste...

In this episode of The Mindset Matters Podcast, psychiatric PAs Mercedes Dodge and Jessica Spissinger dive into the fascinating journey of ketamine—from its origins as a battlefield anesthetic during the Vietnam War to its modern role as a rapid-acting antidepressant transforming mental health care. They unpack the differences between racemic ketamine and esketamine (Spravato®), discuss their use...

Two psych PAs—Mercedes Dodge, PA-C, CAQ-Psych and Jessica Spissinger, PA-C—sit down with Kathryn Werner, PA-C, owner of White Pine Mental Health & Wellness and senior consultant at CPACteam.com, to explore her journey from disliking her psychiatry rotation to building a purpose-driven practice that thrives on clinical depth and compassion. Kathryn shares how the PA generalist mindset sharpens...

Join Jessica Spissinger and Mercedes Dodge as they dive into the emerging science of Lifestyle Psychiatry — where evidence-based medicine meets everyday habits. In this episode, they unpack the six pillars of lifestyle psychiatry: physical activity, nutrition, restorative sleep, stress management, toxic exposure reduction, and social connectedness. Discover how these pillars can transform care for...

In this engaging episode of Mindset Matters, we are joined by Kat Astrup, a dedicated PA with extensive experience in family medicine and psychiatry. Kat also hosts her own podcast, 'PA the FI Way,' where she discusses medicine, finances, and living a balanced life. Kat shares her journey from learning about the PA profession after an ACL injury to her educational path at Des Moines University and...

Join us in this mini-mindset episode as we dive deeply into the history, development, and modern-day relevance of Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs) in clinical practice. From their origins in the 1950s as accidental discoveries from hydrazine compounds to their niche use today, we explore the myths, misconceptions, and clinical implications of these 'relics' of psychiatry. Learn about the vario...

Join us as we speak with Rita Rose, PA-C, a child & adolescent psychiatry PA whose journey spans multiple states and now Italy. She shares her path from novice to advocate, insights on parenting, lifestyle’s role in mental health, and advice for aspiring PAs. Hear how she stays active in advocacy and education despite distance, and why fostering independence, creativity, and mindfulness matter...

Burnout is more than exhaustion—it’s a crisis in medicine. Mercedes Dodge and Jessica Spissinger dive into its roots, dimensions, and impact, sharing lessons from COVID-19 and Dr. Lorna Breen’s story. They challenge the myth of balance, explore integration, and offer real strategies for change. Tune in for insight, inspiration, and tools to protect your well-being and transform how we approach men...

In this episode, we talk with Dr. Sherlonda Adkins, telepsychiatry PA and life strategy coach. She shares her journey from psych PA to coaching and public speaking, highlighting self-advocacy, lifelong learning, and community support. Dr. Adkins offers tips on balance, journaling, and flexibility—showing how to harness your strengths and thrive in both career and life.

Welcome to the debut of Mini Mindset, a quick companion to Mindset Matters. We unpack tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs): what they are, how they work, when to use them, and how to keep patients safe. From depression and anxiety to pain and insomnia, learn why TCAs still matter today in a fast, practical listen for clinicians and curious minds.

Join us as we talk with Elisa Hernandez Hock, a psychiatric PA with 20+ years in outpatient and emergency psychiatry. She shares her hybrid practice model, building an integrative clinic in El Paso, and her advocacy work. Hear her faith-driven approach, resilience, and passion for mentoring future PAs while advancing the role of psychiatric providers.

Jay Somers, psychiatric PA, shares his journey from performing arts and philosophy to psychiatry, highlighting how creativity and critical thinking shape his patient care. He discusses lifestyle medicine, clinician well-being, and insights from diverse practice settings. Hear his advice for new PAs, teaching experiences, and leadership role as chair at the upcoming PA Institute.

In this episode, seasoned psychiatric PA J. Michael shares his journey from emergency medicine to psychiatry. He reflects on the challenges faced by psych PAs, the need for better pathways into the field, and the importance of faith, camaraderie, and holistic care. J. Michael offers insights on building patient rapport, preventing burnout, and staying passionate through continual learning. A must-...

PA Mindset Matters is a podcast by psychiatric PAs Mercedes Dodge and Jessica Spissinger, highlighting the impact of PAs in mental health. We share inspiring stories, clinical insights, and conversations with PAs across specialties to expand knowledge, foster connection, and support well-being in our profession.