Melissa Matthews
I am a board certified PMH-NP (Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner) dedicated to helping my clients feel mentally better about themselves and achieve a higher level of calm and peace. My primary role is prescribing and managing mental health medications. A little about me outside of the practice; I am married, and I'm a mother to two, stepmom to two. I enjoy traveling with the family, planning future trips,, watching tv shows, and cooking. Prior to being a PMHNP, I worked for nearly a decade at the bedside as a nurse in various settings from correctional facilities to a respiratory recovery unit. During COVID-19, I achieved my Family Nurse Practitioner. Shortly thereafter, I realized the need for greater focus and better treatment of mental health. Then I went back for my PMHNP post-masters certificate, allowing me to be a board certified PMHNP, and therefore able to prescribe mental health medications. I am constantly learning more about mental health treatments. I have attended and continue to attend nurse practitioner conferences regularly to stay on the cutting edge of psychiatry. My practice goal is to use evidence-based practices to assess, evaluate, diagnosis and treat mental health conditions across all ages through medication management along with add-on therapy time. Another service I offer is GeneSight genetic testing to help guide medication management decisions.
First session
In your first session with me, we will introduce ourselves to each other. Then we will have an open-ended conversation of what you are looking for and how I can help you in your mental health journey towards calmness and peace. I will also complete a questionnaire with you to obtain some history and current symptoms.
Strengths
I am very thorough, empathetic and holistic in my approach towards mental health care. Being a dual certified NP, I am well aware that our mental health is closely tied with our physical wellbeing and vice versa.
Ideal clients
I enjoy working with clients who are interested and willing to put in the extra work to improve their mental health and learn more about how their brains tick. I really treasure the pediatric and young adult clients; they really are our future. I also treasure the newly retired or long-time retired, I was very close to my grandparents growing up and relished learning from them and just being present with them. Whether you are a parent, single professional, college student or retiree - you deserve to have peace and healing. Every mental health journey is different, I am excited to join you and be a part of your journey!
Treatment methods
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
I apply CBT techniques to identify cognitive distortions, then offer cognitive reframing of negative thought patterns and behaviors that are impeding their journey to a better me. By using CBT techniques, the client will learn alternative methods and patterns of thinking and behaviors to improve overall health and wellbeing.
Motivational Interviewing
I apply Motivation Interviewing to help my clients process mixed feelings and emotions associated with making behavior changes. By using MI, I will apply open-ended questions, positive reassurance, and affirmation to increase your motivation to make a change in your life. Throughout the therapy, I will remain non-judgmental and empathetic, so that you will be able to clearly describe and understanding your reasons for the change.
Location
Virtual sessions
Identifies as
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Other specialties
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Licensed in
- VirginiaLicense 0024183301