Meet Our Providers
Chris Dietrich, PA-C, DSc, CAQ-Psych
Founder & CEO, Summit Psychiatry Associates
Christopher Dietrich brings leadership, heart, and deep clinical insight to the world of behavioral health. As a nationally recognized psychiatric PA and healthcare advocate, he’s passionate about expanding access to mental health care—whether for veterans in Alaska, families in Montana, or communities across the nation. With a calm presence and evidence-based approach, Christopher helps patients find real and lasting change through care that blends compassion, science, and innovation. Christopher holds a Doctor of Science in Healthcare Administration and a Certificate of Added Qualifications in Psychiatry, with clinical focus areas including trauma, ADHD, substance use, and veteran mental health. He blends traditional therapy with neurocognitive testing and technology-enabled care to make high-quality mental health support accessible to all. He is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Summit Psychiatry Associates, a multi-state behavioral health practice dedicated to excellence, empathy, and access. A former President of the Alaska Academy of PAs (AKAPA) and the Alaska Collaborative for Telemedicine & Telehealth (AKCTT), Christopher has championed legislation to expand telemedicine and PA practice across Alaska. His advocacy and leadership have been featured on C-SPAN, in Clinical Advisor, and by the American Academy of PAs (AAPA). At Summit Psychiatry Associates, Christopher continues to build a future where mental health care is connected, compassionate, and within reach for everyone.
Heather Dunford, PA-C, DMSc, CAQ-Psych
Founder & CFO, Summit Psychiatry Associates
Heather Dunford brings heart, humor, and deep expertise to the world of behavioral health. As a nationally certified psychiatric PA with licensure in multiple states, she’s passionate about making mental health care accessible—whether you’re in a small town in Alaska or a city in Utah. With a thoughtful ear and a strategic mind, Heather focuses on more than just symptoms—she helps patients craft personalized plans for healing today and lasting wellness tomorrow. From telehealth visits to in-person care, Heather believes in meeting people where they are, both geographically and emotionally. Her mission? To listen, to connect, and to help others thrive—one patient, one plan, one day at a time. Heather is board-certified in psychiatry as a physician assistant with a Certificate of Added Qualifications in Psychiatry. With advanced degrees including a Doctor of Medical Science (DMSc) and a Master of Physician Assistant Studies (MPAS) from Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions, Heather blends academic excellence with real-world compassion. She is also the Founder and Chief Financial Officer of Summit Psychiatry Associates, our innovative, multi-state behavioral health practice committed to delivering high-quality care across geographic and cultural boundaries. At Summit Psychiatry Associates, Heather continues to lead with empathy, expertise, and a vision for a world where mental health care is approachable, effective, and available to all.