About Us
Together, we raise the standard of mental health care.
Two psychiatric PAs, one shared mission: to elevate mental health knowledge, empower our profession, and spark conversations that matter—in every medical setting.
Our Story
Our paths into psychiatry were different, but our vision aligned: to amplify the role of Psychiatric PAs, connect our peers, and close the mental health gap in all areas of medicine. Mercedes Dodge, PA-C, MPAS, CAQ-Psychiatry, brings years of experience in psychiatry, family medicine, pediatric medicine, urgent care, and women’s health, as well as national leadership in PA advocacy and education. Jessica Spissinger, LICSW, PA-C, CAQ-Psychiatry, blends her foundation in social work and psychotherapy with over a decade of psychiatric practice, faculty experience, and leadership in the Association of PAs in Psychiatry.
We launched this platform to create a space where PAs can share their expertise, learn from each other, and feel supported—whether you practice in psychiatry or another specialty. Mental health intersects with every field, and the more we understand it, the better we serve our patients. Through interviews, clinical pearls, and real stories from the field, we’re building a community grounded in curiosity, compassion, and professional growth.
Meet Your Hosts
Mercedes Dodge
Founder
Psychiatric PA who brings nearly two decades of experience across psychiatry, family medicine, pediatrics, urgent care, and women’s health. She is passionate about integrating mental health into every medical setting and has led initiatives in education, legislative advocacy, and professional leadership at both state and national levels. She thrives on creating spaces where PAs can learn, connect, and elevate the quality of care for patients everywhere.
Jessica Spissinger
Founder
Psychiatric PA with a background as a licensed clinical social worker, she blends psychotherapy expertise with a decade of medical practice treating adult and geriatric patients in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Her leadership in the Association of PAs in Psychiatry reflects her commitment to growing the psychiatric PA workforce, removing barriers to practice, and empowering clinicians to provide comprehensive, compassionate mental health care.
Our Professional Network
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Our Professional Network
