Hi, I’m Michael Hernandez, a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with a deep passion for helping people rediscover themselves. I work with adults who are navigating anxiety, depression, substance use, trauma, or simply feeling stuck in life. My approach is warm, direct, and collaborative. I don’t believe in quick fixes or one-size-fits-all solutions. I believe in building a connection where you feel seen, heard, and genuinely understood. My practice is grounded in both clinical experience and a personal understanding of how challenging and transformative the healing process can be. Before becoming a provider, I spent years as an emergency room nurse and witnessed firsthand how mental health struggles can impact every aspect of someone’s life. I bring empathy, authenticity, and a deep respect for each person’s unique journey. Whether you’re early in your healing process or navigating long-standing patterns, I meet you where you are. As a prescriber, I can incorporate medication into your care when it feels appropriate. While it’s not the focus of every treatment plan, it can be a powerful tool when used thoughtfully and in collaboration with you. My goal is to help you feel empowered and supported in making choices that align with your goals and values. I specialize in helping clients make sense of their experiences, challenge unhelpful thought patterns, and develop tools for lasting emotional wellness. If you're looking for a provider who values honest conversation, mutual trust, and long-term growth, I’d be honored to work with you.
In our first session, my goal is to create a space that feels calm, grounded, and free of judgment. This initial meeting is not about rushing to fix anything or fitting your story into a box. It is about getting to know you, not just your symptoms, but who you are. We will talk about what brought you in, what you are struggling with, and what you hope will be different in your life as we move forward together. The session will begin with introductions and a review of what you can expect from our work together. I will walk you through confidentiality and how I approach treatment and answer any questions you have about the process. From there, I will gently guide us through a comprehensive intake, asking about your current concerns, your emotional and physical health history, and any relevant experiences that might help me understand your story more fully. If it feels comfortable, we can also talk about your support systems, past treatments, and any major life events that may influence how you feel today. This session is also a chance for you to get a feel for who I am and how I work. I welcome your questions. I want you to feel confident that this space allows you to speak openly and be met with compassion and honesty. My style is conversational, not clinical or cold. While I am here as a psychiatric provider, I see this work as a partnership where your voice matters just as much as mine. If you are interested in exploring medication, we can discuss that during this first visit. I will never push medication on you, but I will explain the options that might help based on your symptoms, goals, and preferences. If it feels appropriate to start something, we will review the medication in detail, including how it works, what to expect, potential side effects, and how we will monitor progress over time. I believe in making decisions together and always want you to feel informed and comfortable with your treatment plan. By the end of the session, I hope that you feel seen, heard, and understood. We will discuss the next steps, including how often we will meet, our immediate focus, and what goals we want to begin working toward. Just having a clear plan can bring some relief for some clients. Others may leave still feeling unsure, and that is okay, too. Healing is not linear, and it starts by simply showing up. It is completely normal to feel nervous before a first session. Many people worry they will not know what to say or
One of my greatest strengths as a provider is my ability to build real, honest connections with people. I bring a grounded, human approach to each session and strive to create a space where clients feel safe to be themselves. I do not rush to pathologize or pressure anyone into treatment decisions. Instead, I listen deeply, meet people where they are, and help them explore what wellness looks like. I have a strong background in both emergency medicine and psychiatry, which helps me understand mental health through both a medical and emotional lens. I have worked in high-pressure situations and have seen how mental illness can affect every aspect of a person’s life. My years in emergency care taught me to stay calm in the face of a crisis and to treat every client with empathy, no matter what they are going through. I also bring lived experience to my work, which gives me a level of insight and compassion that cannot be taught in a classroom. While I do not make sessions about myself, clients often tell me they feel a sense of being truly understood. I know what it feels like to sit on the other side of the conversation, and I do not take that trust lightly. I combine clinical knowledge, practical tools, and a profoundly personal understanding of the healing process. Whether we are talking about medication, trauma, addiction, or everyday stress, I work to make things feel manageable, collaborative, and transparent. I am here to guide, support, and walk alongside my clients as they create more stable, empowered, and authentic lives.
I work best with clients who are ready for change, even if they're not sure where to begin. You may be feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, weighed down by depression, or stuck in patterns that no longer serve you. Maybe you have tried therapy before and did not feel heard, or you are navigating recovery and want someone who understands the depth and complexity of that process. My clients tend to value honesty, collaboration, and real connection, not just symptom checklists. You do not need to have everything figured out. You just need to show up as you are, and together, we'll figure out the rest.
Supportive
In my practice, I use supportive therapy to create a safe and nonjudgmental space where clients feel heard, validated, and empowered. This approach is especially useful during medication management visits, as it helps build rapport and provides emotional support while we collaboratively address treatment goals and challenges. I draw on my clinical experience to help patients feel anchored and understood, especially during times of distress or uncertainty.
Cognitive Behavior Therapy for Suicide Prevention (CBT-SP)
I incorporate principles of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help clients identify and challenge unhelpful thought patterns that may be contributing to their symptoms. This structured, evidence-based approach allows us to work together on developing healthier ways of thinking and behaving, which can lead to improved mood, reduced anxiety, and greater overall functioning. I often use CBT techniques during sessions to reinforce medication management and promote long-term wellness.
Motivational Interviewing
Motivational Interviewing is a core part of how I work with clients who are ambivalent about change, particularly those struggling with substance use or adherence to treatment plans. I use open-ended questions, reflective listening, and collaborative goal setting to help clients explore their motivations and overcome resistance. This respectful and client-centered style fosters autonomy and builds readiness for lasting behavioral change.
7 ratings with written reviews
December 2, 2025
Very friendly understanding and understands my goals
October 24, 2025
Easy to work with, Nice peson
October 11, 2025
What stood out most about Dr. Hernandez was his calm, grounded presence and the genuine sense of attentiveness he brought into the session. From the very beginning, he created a safe and welcoming space, which immediately put me at ease. His approach felt both compassionate and professional, a rare balance that made it easier to open up and engage in honest conversation. It helped me feel seen and understood which is not something I take for granted in a first session. Thank you Sir!