My name is Angela Ellard DNP, APRN/CNP-BC, PMHNP-BC, AGPCNP-BC. I have practiced as a Nurse Practitioner for 8 years. Professional Background: I have extensive training and experience in psychiatric and mental health care. My education and clinical training have equipped me with the skills needed to address a wide range of mental health issues. Personal Approach: I am passionate about helping individuals achieve better mental health and well-being. My approach is compassionate, empathetic, and client-centered. I believe in treating each person with respect, dignity, and kindness. I provide comprehensive mental health care, including assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of psychiatric conditions. My Philosophy: I believe that mental health care should be accessible, inclusive, and tailored to each individual's needs. My goal is to help you achieve a balanced and fulfilling life by addressing your mental health concerns with empathy, expertise, and a collaborative spirit. Your well-being is my top priority, and I am committed to supporting you every step of the way. I look forward to working with you and being a part of your journey towards better mental health.
As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), your first session with me is an important step towards understanding your mental health needs and developing a tailored treatment plan. Here’s what you can expect during our initial meeting: 1. Warm Welcome and Introduction. 2. Discussing Confidentiality. 3. Comprehensive Assessment. 4. Exploring Your Goals. 5. Psychoeducation 6. Developing a Treatment Plan 7. Addressing Questions and Concerns 8. Initial Interventions 9. Scheduling Future Sessions 10. Providing Resources
Being dual board certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner as well as an Adult-Gero Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, I believe my greatest strengths as a provider include: 1. Empathy and Compassion 2. Active Listening 3. Comprehensive Assessment Skills 4. Collaboration and Teamwork 5. Evidence-Based Practice 6. Strong Communication Skills 7. Adaptability and Flexibility 8. Patience and Perseverance 9. Cultural Competence 10. Advocacy 11. Continual Professional Development 12. Focus on Wellness and Prevention
My clients are eager to improve, but don't yet have the tools needed to make this goal a reality. They often feel stuck, overwhelmed and anxious about their career. Here are some ways in which I may help you- 1. Openness to Collaboration. I am open to working collaboratively. 2. Willingness to Learn. I am curious and eager to learn more about yourself and your mental health. 3. Commitment to Growth. I recognize that progress in therapy requires commitment and effort. 4. Honesty and Transparency. I strive to be honest and transparent during our sessions. 5. Resilience and Hope. Even if you’ve faced significant challenges or setbacks, you possess a sense of resilience and hope. 6. Openness to Feedback. I am open to receiving feedback and trying new approaches. 7. Engagement in Self-Care. I recognize the importance of self-care and are committed to incorporating healthy habits into your routine. 8. Supportive Environment. I value creating or maintaining a supportive environment, whether it’s fostering healthy relationships, seeking support from loved ones, or connecting with support groups. 9. Embrace of Vulnerability. I am willing to embrace vulnerability, knowing that it’s a strength, not a weakness. 10. A Sense of Agency. I believe in your ability to make positive changes in your life.
Angela Ellard, DNP offers therapy covered by CareSource and UnitedHealthcare/Optum - Medicaid in Ohio.
How CBT Works: 1. Identifying Negative Thoughts – Patients work with a therapist to recognize automatic negative thoughts that contribute to emotional distress. 2. Challenging & Restructuring Thoughts – They learn to question the accuracy of these thoughts and replace them with more balanced, rational perspectives. 3. Behavioral Activation – Patients gradually change behaviors that reinforce negative thinking, such as avoiding social situations or engaging in unhealthy coping mechanisms. 4. Practicing New Skills – CBT involves exercises like journaling, role-playing, exposure therapy (for anxiety), and relaxation techniques. 5. Homework Assignments – Clients often complete worksheets or practice new thought patterns in real-life situations between sessions. CBT is typically short-term (5–20 sessions) and can be done in individual or group settings, both in-person and online.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a structured, evidence-based psychotherapy designed to help individuals manage intense emotions, improve relationships, and develop healthier coping mechanisms. It was originally created for borderline personality disorder (BPD) but is now widely used for conditions like depression, anxiety, PTSD, eating disorders, and substance use disorders. How DBT Works: DBT combines elements of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with mindfulness and acceptance strategies. It operates through four key components: 1. Mindfulness – Clients learn to stay present in the moment, observe thoughts and emotions without judgment, and reduce impulsive reactions. 2. Distress Tolerance – Techniques such as self-soothing, distraction, and radical acceptance help individuals cope with crisis situations without resorting to harmful behaviors. 3. Emotion Regulation – Patients develop skills to recognize, understand, and manage intense emotions to reduce mood swings and impulsive reactions. 4. Interpersonal Effectiveness – Focuses on improving communication skills, setting boundaries, and maintaining healthy relationships without conflict or resentment. DBT Treatment Structure: • Individual Therapy – Weekly one-on-one sessions where clients work on personal challenges and apply DBT skills. DBT is highly structured and effective for people struggling with emotional dysregulation, self-harm, and relationship difficulties.