CBU Alumni Lead the Way in Mental Health Care
When it comes to transforming lives, graduates of California Baptist University’s Physician Assistant Studies (PA) program are proving they’re a prescription for success in the mental health field.
The Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies at CBU prepares entry-level medical professionals to assist physicians in delivering medical care. A standout feature of the program is its required behavioral medicine rotation, which provides students with hands-on experience in mental health settings. This unique component gives graduates a competitive edge, particularly amid the national shortage of mental health professionals.
“Since the pandemic, there has been a heightened spotlight on mental health awareness, opening up new opportunities in this field,” said Dr. Mary Ann Nogaki Stahovich, director of PA admissions and assistant professor of PA studies. “Our program is stepping forward to address healthcare disparities.”
CBU PA students gain real-world experience through a series of clinical rotations, which include specialties such as general surgery, pediatrics, emergency medicine, women’s health, and behavioral medicine. The behavioral medicine rotation, in particular, has proven invaluable for graduates entering the mental health field.
Pacific Neuropsychiatric Specialists (PNS), based in Orange County, has become a prominent employer of CBU PA graduates, with seven alumni currently on staff. Brandon Stutz, a CBU alumnus and lead physician assistant at PNS’s Huntington Beach office, credits the program’s thorough preparation for his success in developing treatment programs.
“CBU prepared us well with open communication and hands-on experience right from the start,” Stutz said. “The faculty went above and beyond to ensure we succeeded. It’s fulfilling to hear patients share how much our care has transformed their lives.”
Pursuing a career in psychiatry requires empathy, resilience, and the ability to navigate complex challenges with care and commitment. Jess Cuevas, a lead physician assistant in PNS’s Long Beach office, cites her clinical rotation in psychiatry as one of her more eye-opening and meaningful experiences.
“Watching people become more mentally stable and seeing how that positively impacts their lives is incredibly rewarding,” Cuevas said. “I like the puzzle of optimizing the treatment plan for the patient sitting in front of me.”
Joseph Nojan, another CBU graduate working at PNS, serves in residential treatment settings where he provides acute care for patients facing depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. Nojan highlights the autonomy and fast-paced nature of his role as a key motivator.
“Mental health sculpts your relationships with yourself, your family, and your friends. It affects every facet of life, and it takes nuance and patience to help patients feel comfortable,” Nojan said. Inspired by his own education, Nojan expressed interest in teaching future PA students to give back to the field.
Under the Department of PA Studies, CBU also offers a Doctor of Medical Science online degree. Looking ahead, CBU’s Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies plans to double its enrollment, further reflecting its commitment to producing skilled healthcare providers.
For alumni like Stutz, Cuevas, and Nojan, the impact of CBU’s PA program is clear: it equips professionals to transform lives through patient-centered, mission-driven care.
“We need more people in our field who are passionate, caring, and empathetic. The work we do is life-changing,” Cuevas said.
To learn more about CBU’s Department of Physician Assistant Studies, visit calbaptist.edu.