Hello, My name is Rafia . I am a Nurse Practitioner (NP) board-certified in Family Medicine (FNP) and Mental Health (PMHNP). My mission is to help each patient achieve their goals and live their best life. I understand that mental health can carry a stigma, and seeking help may feel challenging at times. However, please know that you are not alone, and I am here to support you through your journey. In many communities, especially in the African community, discussing trauma or mental health struggles is not always encouraged. I want to create a space where you feel heard and understood, and where your feelings are validated. I am here for all my patients, providing a compassionate, open, and safe environment. I am deeply committed to helping individuals overcome obstacles, whether they are mental health challenges, relationship difficulties, self-esteem concerns, or striving to become a more positive and influential person in their own lives. My approach emphasizes positivity and mindset transformation, and I incorporate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help create lasting change in thought patterns. Above all, I respect and treat all of my clients as VIPs. I believe that each person deserves to feel valued and respected throughout their journey. I am known for my empathetic, understanding nature, and I love to create a relaxed and approachable atmosphere. I enjoy making people laugh and keeping things real, ensuring that you feel comfortable and at ease throughout our time together. If you're ready to work towards a healthier, more fulfilling life, I'm here for you every step of the way.

What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?

I am here to listen, guide, and work alongside you to create a treatment plan that fits your unique needs. Purpose for Visit: Each visit , we are meeting to discuss your mental health and well-being. This visit will allow us to explore any concerns or challenges you’re facing, such as your mental health symptoms, treatment options, or any struggles in your personal life that might be affecting your mental health. I want to understand what brought you here today and how we can work together to address your specific concerns. Setting Treatment Goals: Together, we will set clear, realistic treatment goals that reflect what you hope to achieve from our work together. These goals may include managing anxiety, improving your mood, enhancing your coping skills, or addressing any specific mental health symptoms that are currently challenging. My aim is to help you take small, manageable steps towards improvement, and we will regularly review these goals to ensure progress. Method to be Used: In our work together, I will primarily use evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help you challenge negative thought patterns and replace them with healthier, more positive ways of thinking. CBT is a method that focuses on the connections between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, and it can be very effective for conditions like anxiety, depression, and PTSD. In addition to therapy techniques, I will also consider medication management, if necessary, to help you reach your treatment goals. Discussing Each Responsibility: Both of us play a role in your treatment. My responsibility is to provide you with professional, compassionate care, offer guidance, and create a treatment plan that aligns with your needs. I will support you in exploring different strategies for managing your mental health and will regularly check in to assess your progress. Your responsibility as a patient is to be open and honest with me about your symptoms, concerns, and goals. The more I know, the better I can help. It's also important that you actively engage in the treatment process, follow through with recommendations, and communicate any changes you experience or concerns you have. Ultimately, our partnership will be built on trust, respect, and mutual commitment to working towards your mental health and personal goals. I am here to support you every step of the way. Let’s work together to create positive changes that can improve your quality of life.

Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.

Best Strengths as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner: As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I believe my greatest strengths lie in my ability to provide compassionate and personalized care. Here are the key strengths that I bring to my practice: Active Listening: I make it a priority to truly listen to what you have to say. This allows me to fully understand your concerns, needs, and goals so that I can offer the most effective treatment plan tailored to you. Non-Judgmental Attitude: I create a safe, open space where you can share your thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment. My goal is to make you feel accepted, respected, and valued for who you are, regardless of your struggles or experiences. Respect and Empathy: I treat each patient with the utmost respect and empathy. I understand that mental health challenges can feel isolating, and I strive to ensure that you feel understood and supported throughout your journey. Collaboration: I believe in working together with my patients as a team. Your input and perspective are vital in creating the most effective treatment plan. I encourage open communication and ensure that we are always aligned on your treatment goals. Empowerment: You are in control of your own treatment. I am here to guide and support you, but the decisions are ultimately yours. I believe in empowering my patients to take an active role in their care, fostering confidence and independence in your mental health journey. Creating Comfort and Trust: I work hard to create a comfortable, welcoming environment where you feel safe to discuss your mental health concerns. Establishing trust and rapport is essential to our work together, and I strive to make every session feel as comfortable as possible. These strengths enable me to provide you with the best possible care and ensure that our work together is productive, positive, and supportive. I am here to help you feel heard, understood, and empowered as we navigate your mental health goals.

Describe the client(s) you are best positioned to serve.

I have specialized training and experience in treating a wide range of mental health disorders. I am dedicated to helping my patients achieve their personal and mental health goals, creating a safe, supportive environment for growth and healing. I specialize in treating patients with anxiety, autism, depression, ADHD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, low self-esteem, mood disorders, and many other mental health challenges. My approach is personalized to meet each patient’s unique needs, and I strive to use evidence-based practices that empower you to take control of your mental health.

About Dr. Rafia Grooms