Psychotic Disorders

Psychotic Disorder Care in Long Beach

Also known as: Psychosis

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Key takeaways

Psychotic disorders affect how the brain processes reality.
Symptoms can include hallucinations, delusions, or disorganized thinking.
Psychosis appears in several conditions, and an evaluation finds the cause.
Early psychiatric care improves outcomes; medication management supports stability.

What psychotic disorders feel like

Psychotic disorders change how the brain processes reality, which can lead to hallucinations, false beliefs, or disorganized thinking. They include schizophrenia and several related conditions. These experiences are caused by changes in brain function and are treatable, especially when care begins early.

How psychiatric care helps

A psychiatric evaluation identifies the cause of symptoms and shapes a clear treatment plan. Medication management can ease symptoms and support stability over time, and we can coordinate therapy and community-support referrals when added help would strengthen recovery.

Sources: NIMH: Understanding Psychosis, SAMHSA: Serious Mental Illness.

Signs & symptoms

Hearing or seeing things others do not
Beliefs that are not based in reality
Confused or disorganized thinking
Pulling away from people or activities
Trouble telling what is real from what is not

Causes & risk factors

According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), psychosis most often first appears in the late teens to mid-twenties, though it can occur at any age.

Causes

A range of conditions, including schizophrenia and mood disorders
Differences in brain chemistry and function
Certain medical conditions can trigger psychosis

Risk factors

Family history of psychosis or related conditions
Severe or prolonged sleep loss
Significant stress or certain medical conditions

Possible complications

Disruption to work, school, and relationships
Co-occurring depression or anxiety
Higher risk of self-harm without treatment (seek help early)

How it's diagnosed

Comprehensive psychiatric evaluation
Medical work-up to rule out other causes
Review of symptoms, personal history, and family history

Treatment options

Service	What it's for
Medication Management	Careful selection, monitoring, and adjustment of psychiatric medications to maximize benefit and minimize side effects.
Psychiatric Evaluation	A thorough first assessment to understand your history and symptoms and build an accurate diagnosis and plan.

Visiting our office

An appointment is not the route when anyone is in immediate danger: call 911, or call or text 988. For planned care, a trusted person can help keep track of appointment dates and of what was agreed at each visit. Openings for new patients vary, so confirm them by phone first.

Our office: 3646 Long Beach Blvd # 205, Long Beach, CA 90807
Hours: Mon–Fri · 8 AM–6 PM (Pacific)
Phone: (818) 286-3862

Directions and more about our office are on the Psychiatrist in Long Beach page.

When to seek help

If symptoms persist, worsen, or interfere with daily life, a psychiatric evaluation can help. If you have thoughts of suicide, call or text 988 now. It is free and open 24/7. In an emergency, call 911.

Frequently asked questions

Are psychotic disorders treatable?

Yes. With psychiatric evaluation and medication management, many people see symptoms improve over time and return to daily activities they value.

Does psychosis mean schizophrenia?

Not always. Psychosis is a symptom that appears in several conditions. A psychiatric evaluation helps identify the cause and the right plan of care.

When should someone get help?

Early care matters. If you or a loved one notices changes in thinking or perception, a prompt psychiatric evaluation can improve outcomes.

Providers who treat this

Irine Achuamang, MSN, PMHNP-BC

We see patients in person at our Long Beach office. Telehealth available across California, with new locations coming to Northern California. See every area we serve.

Coming from a nearby area?

Every in-person visit is at our one office in Long Beach.

Sources

Understanding Psychosis, NIMH

Medically reviewed by Irine Achuamang, MSN, PMHNP-BC. Last reviewed October 21, 2026.

This page is for general information and is not a substitute for professional care. In crisis? Call or text 988.

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