The inaugural event being held December 11-13 in Orlando brings PAs together for education, connection, and leadership in psychiatry and behavioral health.

As a physician associate who has dedicated my career to psychiatry and mental health, I’ve often found myself searching for professional spaces that truly reflect the work we do. Whether you’re a PA in psychiatry, primary care, or another setting where you support patients with mental health needs, you’ve likely felt the same.

There should be a community just for us. That’s why I’m so proud to help launch the inaugural Psych Congress PA Institute, happening December 11–13 in Orlando.

This event was created to give PAs the education we need in psychiatric care. We see patients in moments of crisis, support long-term recovery, and often bridge the gap between mental and physical health. And yet, there’s never been a national meeting specifically designed for us. Until now.

What Makes This Meeting Different

According to NCCPA data, 26.7% of certified PAs report that they initiate treatment for mental health disorders — a clear indicator of the growing role PAs play in behavioral health care delivery.

At the Psych Congress PA Institute, every topic on the agenda (including lifestyle psychiatry, managing psychiatric emergencies, and building a mental health practice) was selected because it’s directly relevant to our clinical roles. You won’t find filler. You’ll find insights you can apply the moment you get home.

You’ll also find connection. Many of us work in settings where we’re the only PA focused on mental health. It can feel isolating. This event offers a rare opportunity to meet others who share your path, speak your language, and understand your challenges. We’re creating the professional community many of us have been missing.

Session Highlights

• Emergency Psychiatry: Managing Crisis Situations & High-Risk Patients
  December 13 | 1:40 – 2:40 PM
  This session will use real-world case examples to explore how to recognize and respond to psychiatric emergencies, including acute suicidality and violent agitation. We’ll also walk through a live role-play demonstration of verbal de-escalation techniques to help you manage crises with greater skill and confidence.
• Ask the Experts: PA Career Growth & Leadership in Psychiatry
  December 13 | 4 – 5 PM
  In this interactive closing session, I’ll join other psychiatric PAs to answer your questions about growing in this field. We’ll share success stories, lessons learned, and tips for building influence, from negotiating contracts to shaping policy and research.

Join Me in Orlando

If you’re a PA who cares for patients with mental health concerns, this meeting is for you. Come learn from your peers, connect with a national network of PAs, and leave feeling energized, empowered, and equipped to elevate the care you provide.

Event Details

• Psych Congress PA Institute
• December 11-13
• Orlando, Florida (Livestream option also available)
• Event Website
• Register Today
   

Erin Crown, MHS, PA-C, CAQ-Psychiatry is Co-Founder & President of the Pennsylvania Mental Health Initiative and the Managing Member of Oasis LifeCare in State College, Pennsylvania.