M3 Wake Research
Mission Mental Health
Clinical research studies focused on chronic illnesses, obesity, diabetes, and respiratory conditions
HOURS
Mon-Thu 8-5
Fri 8-2
Your Local Mission Viejo Research Partner
M3 Wake Research – Mission Mental Health, in partnership with Mission Mental Health, conducts clinical research focused on advancing care for individuals living with complex psychiatric and behavioral health conditions. This site supports studies across a wide range of mental health indications, including mood disorders, trauma-related conditions, substance use disorders, and treatment-resistant psychiatric illnesses, with a commitment to evidence-based, patient-centered care.
Through its collaboration with Mission Mental Health, the Mission Viejo site integrates clinical research with specialized therapeutic modalities such as ketamine-based therapies, esketamine, transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), and emerging psychedelic-assisted approaches. The team brings deep experience working with child, adolescent, adult, and geriatric populations, as well as expertise in forensic and medico-legal evaluations, creating a comprehensive research environment that supports both innovation and clinical rigor in mental health care.
Currently Enrolling Studies & Specialties in the Mission Viejo, CA, Area
With over 40 years of combined clinical trial experience, this clinical research unit plays a crucial role in supporting these clinical trials and studies aimed at developing new treatments and improving healthcare. Each clinical study is designed to test new treatments and interventions, and participation is voluntary with an informed consent process. Specific details about a patient’s medical history are key in determining eligibility for research studies.
If you are interested in a specialty or study not currently listed, complete our general survey to stay up-to-date with current and upcoming studies.
Currently Enrolling Clinical Trial Specialties
What Participants Are Saying
Our participant stories about their experiences in our clinical trials are a testament to the power of clinical trials and how they can have a positive impact on individual lives. View some of the testimonials below to see how we’ve been able to facilitate positive outcomes for our participants, and make sure to contact us to learn more about how our clinical trials may benefit your diagnosis.
The staff have been exceptional, every step was organized, and professional, full explanation of each procedure. And kept me well-informed. I had such an exceptional experience; I look forward to being part of a future study. Many thanks to all.
— Kathy Forest
M3 Wake Research was always efficient. My appointments were always on time. The visits and calls were thorough. Being able to call anytime with questions and concerns made my participation easy. I look forward to more studies in the future.
— Teresa Starks
M3 Wake Research was very efficient, friendly, and professional. I was happy to be involved in this clinical study. I encourage anyone interested in clinical studies to give them a try. It was a great experience, plus I got the added benefits of receiving the vaccine.
— Diane Matranga
They were all very great, professional, courteous, nice, and very friendly. They treated me awesome and took care of me very efficiently.
— Harold Kessee
The staff was very accommodating with scheduling. I appreciate their flexibility with changes to my appointments. Also, I never got bruised from blood draws. The clinical staff is experienced and thoughtful. I feel well taken care of. Thank you!
— Patrick Yeung
Meet the Team
Our Investigators
Our principal investigators at M3 Wake Research Mission Mental Health are highly trained, board-certified physicians with years of experience conducting clinical trials. Focused in a variety of specializations, our principal investigators ensure that every clinical trial follows the outlined protocol to maintain the integrity of the study while collecting crucial data to evaluate the medical devices, treatments, or therapies being investigated. Meet our principal investigators below to learn who you will be leading your clinical trial.
Alexei “Alex” Michelson, MD
Principal Investigator
Psychiatry
Board-certified psychiatrist and Medical Director of the Intensive Outpatient Program in Mission Viejo with 30+ years of experience in both clinical and forensic psychiatry across adult, adolescent, and geriatric populations. Dr. Michelson offers individualized psychiatric care, leads an Intensive Outpatient Program, and is widely recognized for his work in
academia, research, and legal-medical settings.
Susan Park, MD
Principal Investigator
Psychiatry, Internal Medicine, Women’s Health
Board-certified family medicine physician with 25+ years of clinical experience and 5+ years in clinical research across psychiatry, infectious disease, internal medicine, respiratory, and women’s health. Dr. Park provides medical oversight for clinical trials and brings extensive outpatient and urgent care experience, caring for diverse patient populations.
Operational Leadership
Melissa Ellis
Site Manager
20+ years of clinical research experience
Melissa has conducted over 400 clinical trials in Phase I – IV with challenging populations in adult/pediatric vaccines, sleep, internal medicine, schizophrenia, MDD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, OCD, essential tremors, postoperative pain, and many other indications.
Participating in a Clinical Study
What to Expect from Your Participation
Participating in a clinical study can be a rewarding and enriching experience. As a participant, you will have the opportunity to contribute to the advancement of medical knowledge and potentially gain access to cutting-edge treatments. Here’s what you can expect from your participation:
Informed Consent Process
Our staff will guide you through a thorough informed consent process, explaining the study intervention, potential risks, and benefits. We will ensure all your questions are answered, so you feel fully informed before participating.
Comprehensive Medical Evaluation
You will undergo a detailed medical evaluation, including a physical exam, medical history review, and laboratory tests, to ensure you meet the study’s inclusion and exclusion criteria.
Study Intervention
Depending on the clinical study, you may receive a new medication, medical device, or behavioral health intervention. Our trained staff will administer the intervention and monitor your progress closely.
Regular Follow-Up Visits
Throughout the study, you will have regular follow-up visits where our staff will monitor your health, address any concerns, and provide ongoing support and guidance.
Compensation
We offer compensation for your time and travel, as well as any other expenses related to your participation in the study.
We are committed to ensuring that every participant has a positive and rewarding experience. Our staff is dedicated to providing exceptional care and support, and we are always available to answer any questions or concerns you may have. By participating in a clinical study, you are not only gaining access to potential new treatments but also playing a crucial role in advancing medical research and improving patient care for future generations.
About M3 Wake Research Mission Mental Health
Our Mission and High-Quality Clinical Research Services
At M3 Wake Research Mission Mental Health, our mission is to provide high-quality clinical research services that advance medical knowledge and improve patient care. We are dedicated to conducting clinical trials that are safe, efficient, and effective, meeting the highest standards of quality and integrity. Our team of experienced researchers and medical professionals is committed to delivering exceptional service to our sponsors, participants, and the broader medical community. Through our clinical trials, we aim to contribute to the development of innovative treatments and therapies that can make a real difference in patients’ lives.
State-of-the-Art Facilities for Clinical Trials
Our state-of-the-art facilities are designed to conduct clinical trials in a safe, efficient, and comfortable environment. Equipped with the latest technology and medical devices, our facilities ensure that every aspect of the clinical trial process is handled with precision and care. Our dedicated team of researchers, nurses, and coordinators work together seamlessly to provide exceptional care and support to our participants. From initial consultations to follow-up visits, we strive to create a welcoming and professional atmosphere that prioritizes the well-being and comfort of our participants.
Partner with M3 Wake Research Mission Mental Health in Mission Viejo, CA
Why Choose M3 Wake Research Mission Mental Health
Mission Mental Health supports research across diverse psychiatric and primary care populations. Led by seasoned psychiatrists and family medicine investigators, the site combines individualized care with structured, protocol-driven research.
The Mission team conducts multi-phase studies with a focus on patient safety, cultural sensitivity, and cross-specialty collaboration, serving Southern California’s diverse community with access to specialized psychiatric and internal medicine care.
- Psychiatrist-led site with intensive outpatient program expertise
- Access to diverse therapeutic areas and medically complex patients
- Clinical, forensic, and academic psychiatry expertise on staff
- Strong recruitment with multilingual, multicultural patient base in greater Los Angeles
- White glove services, including rapid startup
High standards of trial conduct & patient care
As an integral part of the M3 Wake Research network, M3 Wake Research Mission Mental Health ensures excellence in clinical trial conduct, focusing on patient safety and the reliability of study results. Our partnership provides access to a large number of clinical trials across a range of therapeutic areas, supported by standardized protocols and centralized quality assurance across the network.
Cutting edge of medical research
By partnering with M3 Wake Research Mission Mental Health, healthcare providers can connect their patients with innovative treatments and therapies through our clinical trials. This collaboration not only offers alternative care options, but also contributes to the advancement of medical science. It showcases your commitment to providing cutting-edge patient care and participating in the progress of healthcare.
News & Updates
Understanding Graves’ Disease: An Autoimmune Thyroid Disorder
September 30, 2025
Now Enrolling: Obesity and Type 2 Diabetes Studies at M3 Wake Research…
September 22, 2025
Understanding Obesity: A Deep Dive into Its Causes, Consequences &…
September 19, 2025
Clinical Research in the Community: Why Partnering with Community Phys…
September 11, 2025
Join Our Research Studies
Contact M3 Wake Research Mission Mental Health to Enroll in Clinical Trials
Enrolling in a clinical trial with M3 Wake Research Mission Mental Health in the Mission Viejo, CA, area provides access to innovative therapies for a number of indications. Whether you are a patient, caregiver, or physician seeking cutting edge treatment options, joining a clinical trial may be the right option for your health. Such trials not only advance medical knowledge and improve patient care but also provide opportunities for patients to access innovative treatments and contribute to future healthcare advancements. Our research team at M3 Wake Research MIssion Mental Health is focused on providing quality patient care with leading research furthering the medical field.
Use our Find a Trial tool or search by indication and your location to find a clinical trial that may be relevant to your condition. If you need assistance or have any questions, please contact us directly.