Hello, I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) based in Georgia. I earned my Master’s degree from Walden University and bring over 20 years of experience in nursing, including 2 years of prescribing mental health care. I offer both in-person and telehealth services to provide accessible, patient-centered care. With a deep passion for mental health, I am committed to working collaboratively with clients to develop personalized treatment plans tailored to their unique needs and goals. Together, we can create a path toward improved mental health and well-being.

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

In the first session with a mental health nurse practitioner, clients can expect a welcoming and supportive environment where the focus is on understanding their concerns and establishing a therapeutic relationship. Here’s what typically happens: Introductions and Rapport Building: The session begins with introductions to help the client feel comfortable. The nurse practitioner explains their role and what to expect during the visit. Comprehensive Assessment: The practitioner conducts a detailed assessment, asking questions about the client’s mental health history, current symptoms, medical history, family dynamics, lifestyle, and social situation. This may also include discussing any past treatments or medications. Collaborative Goal Setting: The client’s goals and expectations are explored. Together, they identify priorities for treatment and discuss what the client hopes to achieve. Education and Initial Plan: The nurse practitioner may provide initial psychoeducation about the client’s condition or symptoms, explaining potential contributing factors. They will outline a preliminary plan, which may include therapy, medication options, or lifestyle recommendations. Addressing Questions and Concerns: Clients are encouraged to ask questions and express any concerns. This helps clarify the process and ensures they feel informed and empowered. The first session is primarily about building trust, gathering information, and setting a foundation for ongoing care.

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

As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, my greatest strengths include: Empathy and Compassion: I excel at creating a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients feel understood and valued, fostering trust and openness in our therapeutic relationship. Holistic Approach: I view each client as a whole person, considering not just their mental health but also their physical, emotional, social, and environmental well-being when developing treatment plans. Strong Communication Skills: I can explain complex concepts in simple, relatable terms, empowering clients to understand their diagnoses and treatment options, which encourages collaboration and engagement. Adaptability: I tailor interventions to meet each client’s unique needs, blending evidence-based practices with a personalized approach to care. Commitment to Lifelong Learning: I stay current with advancements in psychiatric care and continually refine my skills to provide the most effective and innovative treatments. Advocacy and Support: I am passionate about reducing stigma and advocating for clients to access resources, build resilience, and achieve their mental health goals. These strengths enable me to provide compassionate, comprehensive, and effective care to clients navigating their mental health journeys.

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

I am best positioned to serve clients navigating the challenges of depression and addiction, particularly those seeking a compassionate, structured, and personalized approach to recovery. My focus is on individuals who may feel overwhelmed, isolated, or unsure about the steps toward healing. I excel at supporting clients with co-occurring disorders, helping them understand how depression and addiction intersect while fostering a holistic approach to addressing both conditions. I work best with clients who are ready to explore their emotions, identify triggers, and learn healthier coping mechanisms. Through psychoeducation and evidence-based interventions. I provide a safe and nonjudgmental environment where clients feel supported in their journey toward emotional resilience and sustainable sobriety.

About Debra Harvey Stewart