About Estrella Cognitive Care
Serving Phoenix, Avondale, Scottsdale, Mesa, Chandler & all of Arizona, Oregon, Idaho, Wyoming, and Hawaii via Telehealth.
Dedicated to Your Mental Wellness – Meet Our Team
At Estrella Cognitive Care, our mission is to provide compassionate, evidence-based psychiatric care to individuals seeking mental health support in Arizona. Our team consists of board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) and dedicated administrative staff, all committed to helping you achieve mental well-being.
Meet Our Mental Health Experts
Amanda Gwardys-Cook, PMHNP – Founder & Lead Practitioner
Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
With over 20 years of healthcare experience, I have dedicated my life to helping others achieve mental wellness. I understand how mental health impacts all areas of life—personal, professional, emotional, and physical well-being. Through comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, personalized treatment plans, and holistic care, I aim to help individuals overcome challenges such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, and addiction.
Candace Guangorena – Administration Assistant
Hi, I’m Candace! I’m a wife, a mom to an energetic 8-year-old, and happiest when I’m outdoors in the sunshine. I love exploring nature, traveling, and picking up new hobbies. Recently, I joined a book club and started learning to sew on my very first machine.
I hold a bachelor’s degree in Sociology from Cal State Fullerton, and once motherhood slows down, I plan to pursue my dream of becoming a nurse.
I’m excited to be part of Estrella Cognitive Care and to share my care, curiosity, and energy with the team.
Katie Schissell, PMHNP
I am a Psychiatric–Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with over 20 years of medical experience across psychiatry, acute psychological stabilization, detoxification, substance use disorders, medication-assisted treatment (MAT), and emergency medicine. My clinical background spans high-acuity and community-based settings, where I have supported individuals through some of their most vulnerable moments with skill, steadiness, and respect. My passion lies in serving underserved and marginalized communities through culturally aligned, trauma-informed care. I believe effective mental health treatment begins with listening—honoring each person’s lived experience, cultural identity, and values while working collaboratively toward meaningful, achievable goals. I bring advanced nursing expertise grounded in compassion, evidence-based practice, and whole-person care. My approach integrates thoughtful psychiatric evaluation, safe and effective medication management, and an understanding of the social and cultural factors that shape mental health. I am committed to creating a welcoming, nonjudgmental space where individuals feel seen, heard, and empowered in their healing.
Chrissie Seals, WHNP-BC, PMHNP-BC, MSN
Meet M. Chrissie Seals, WHNP-BC, PMHNP-BC, MSN
With over 30 years of dedicated experience as a Nurse Practitioner in Women’s Health and Psychiatric Nursing, Chrissie is known for her expertise, warmth, and the trust she builds with every patient she cares for.
Chrissie’s healthcare journey began in a Reproductive Endocrinology IVF setting, where she gained extensive experience in infertility care, reproductive health for both men and women, menopause treatment, and psychiatric support for the stress and emotional challenges that can accompany these services. She also developed expertise in treating hormone-related conditions such as polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), early ovarian failure, and male hypogonadism. Additionally, she served as a clinical investigator in trials focused on the treatment of endometriosis, interstitial cystitis, and chronic pelvic pain.
Following her work in Reproductive Endocrinology, Chrissie expanded her expertise to include family-centred prenatal care, postpartum support, and menopause management. She is certified by the North American Menopause Society as a Menopause Practitioner and holds board certifications as a Nurse Practitioner in both Women’s Health and Psychiatric Mental Health.
Chrissie strives to create a sanctuary where patients feel safe, heard, and genuinely supported. Her commitment to compassionate, patient-centred care has shaped her approach to both Women’s Health and Psychiatric services.
A natural leader, Chrissie is not only a medical provider but also an advocate and a steady source of comfort for patients at every stage of life. Her ability to combine clinical excellence with heartfelt connection has earned her deep respect within her field.
Experience the care, wisdom, and compassion that so many patients trust. Schedule your hormone or reproductive health evaluation with Chrissie Seals today.
Why Choose Estrella Cognitive Care?
✅ Board-Certified Mental Health Experts – Specialized in psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and holistic treatments.
✅ Personalized, Evidence-Based Treatment Plans – Tailored to your unique needs.
✅ Culturally Sensitive & Inclusive Care – Supporting diverse communities across Arizona.
✅ Convenient Telehealth Services – Accessible from Phoenix, Scottsdale, Mesa, Chandler, Glendale, and beyond.
✅ Flexible Appointment Scheduling – Easy online booking with our dedicated team.
Get Started with Expert Mental Health Care
💡 You don’t have to face mental health challenges alone. Whether you need therapy support, medication management, or a compassionate care team, we are here to help.
📍 Now Accepting New Patients Across Arizona