David Califf | DNP, ARNP, PMHNP-BC
Education
Washington State University: Vancouver, WA | Doctorate of Nursing Practice
University of Washington: Seattle, WA | BS in Nursing
"People often hope for pretty basic things: relationships that feel like home, or a life where they don’t dread their existence. We need connection. We can build the bridge that lets someone move to a place where they’re making progress."
David is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and holds a Doctorate in Nursing from Washington State University. He specializes in treating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, schizophrenia, and panic disorders. David is deeply committed to providing individualized care by understanding each patient’s priorities and goals, using evidence-based treatments to help them find hope and a clear path forward. David has a special fondness for working with retired adults and men who are engaging with mental health care for the first time.
David’s career began in cabinetry, before he transitioned into emergency medical services (EMS) and later pursued nursing, driven by a desire to support people through mission work and healthcare. After spending 12 years working in the ER, David grew increasingly concerned about the lack of mental health care available to acute patients, many of whom were re-traumatized by the system. He took a harm reduction approach during his time in emergency care, advocating for more compassionate, therapeutic spaces for patients. Over time, his role as a leader in hospital settings further solidified his passion for changing how people access compassionate care.
David’s passion for the mental health field drew him to Kaleidoscope Rx (then Spectrum Mental Health) in 2023 for his doctoral internship. Working with the team of providers and serving people from so many identities, experiences, and perspectives felt like home for David. He is steadfastly committed to standing in solidarity with his patients, meeting them where they are in their healing process, and helping them move towards greater connection and peace.
“I’m not coming in to save anybody. I’m here to hold space, listen without judging, and find options that can ease suffering and get them back to living life.”
David views medication as a tool to bridge the gap to wellness, enabling patients to make meaningful changes in their lives. He also believes that once medication is on board, the importance of community support, healthy habits, and strong relationships cannot be overstated. True wellness is about finding connections and living a life in which individuals feel joy and fulfillment.
David’s Kaleidoscope
"My kaleidoscope would feature an intricate pattern of nature, space, humanity, and light. At first glance, I'd see peaceful forests and rivers in shades of soft blues and deep greens, but as the kaleidoscope turns, it would reveal cosmic patterns and bold tones, representing the beauty of change, growth, and resilience."