I am Saudat Lawal, DNP, CRNP, PA, WV Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Graduate of Robert Morris University’s (RMU) PMHNP Doctor of Nursing Practice Program. Graduate of South University - Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) prepared, ANCC Board Certified, Psychiatric Mental Health. Registered Nurse (RN) with 20 years of experience in various capacities such as a Psychiatric Nurse, Geriatric Nurse, and Assistant Director of Nursing (ADON) - in Skilled nursing Facilities with locked down Alzheimer/Dementia units (SNF), including Director of Nursing/Chief Nursing Officer of a local Behavioral Hospital - A free-standing 3units/48 beds inpatient psychiatric hospital. Worked with Severely and Persistently Mentally Ill (SPMI) adult population, with dual diagnosis and medical commodities. Familiarity with many practice models, including dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), motivational interviewing (MI), trauma-informed care, recovery-focused interventions, community resource linkage, and case management. Over the course of my nursing career and training as a Psychiatric Mental Health As a Nurse Practitioner, I have gained valuable experience and knowledge across multiple levels of care, successfully managing various psychiatric diagnoses across children, adolescents and adults in diverse populations.

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

The initial consultation will center around you and may take one to one and a half hours. Your first session with me will entail our introduction, which is the beginning of the patient-provider relationship. I will ask about your family history, including any mental health diagnosis, and your personal history, including any traumas you’ve experienced. Understanding your background is essential for us to use the gathered information to tailor your unique treatment plan. We shall explore your treatment goals as a team. I will ask about your symptoms, how long you’ve had them, and what you’ve tried to do about them in the past. We shall discuss your symptoms and treatment options, which may include medication, counseling, lifestyle modifications, or further evaluation. If medication is prescribed, you will get clear instructions on how to use it and what to expect regarding side effects. Questions and Clarifications: You can ask any questions about the process, my approach, or what to expect next.

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

I am an active listener with effective communication skills, which are essential in constructive interactions and building trust and rapport with my patients and colleagues in my medical career. I exercise compassion and empathy as I interact with my patients. I respect their concerns and feelings and show concern in return.

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

As a psychiatric nurse practitioner with a wealth of experience across various healthcare settings, including hospitals, drug and alcohol detox crisis stabilization and rehabilitation units, outpatient clinics, sub-acute care facilities, and long-term care environments. I actively evaluate, diagnose, and treat patients (psychiatric medication management) and perform consultations with empathy, active listening, compassion, and evidence-based patient-goal-oriented interventions. With no further ado, Please join me as I welcome you to unlock your exclusive access to mental wellness.

About Dr. Saudat I Lawal, DNP