Dr. Lori Darnelle Weeks
Have you reached a point in your life where you're ready for meaningful change - not necessarily because everything is falling apart, but because you want to feel better, live better, and become the healthiest, most fulfilled version of yourself? Hello! I'm Lori, an ANCC Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, DNP-prepared clinician, and founder of Manifesting Minds, LLC. With a wealth of clinical experience, I bring both professional expertise and a genuine passion for helping people better understand themselves, navigate life's challenges, and achieve meaningful, lasting change. I provide psychiatric care in Georgia, New York, and Nevada.
You deserve to feel valued, heard, and understood without judgment. Seeking support is a strength, and there is no shame in choosing medication as part of your mental wellness journey.
I believe that mental health care should go beyond identifying symptoms and assigning a diagnosis. My approach begins with listening, asking thoughtful questions, and taking a deeper dive into your experiences to understand the whole picture. Whether you're navigating life transitions, processing past trauma, experiencing anxiety or depression, struggling with concentration, or addressing something you've carried for years, I recognize that our emotional, physical, and psychological well-being are deeply connected. What affects one area of our lives often influences another. My goal isn't simply to understand what's happening to you. It's to help you understand what's happening within you—and what we can do together to help you move forward.
First session
Our first session is all about getting to know you—and trust me, there's so much more to your story than what fits into one appointment! The first session will be warm, relaxed......We'll begin with a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, taking a deep dive into your current concerns, personal experiences, medical and psychiatric history, family background, lifestyle, relationships, and the life events that have shaped you. I believe every piece of your story matters because our mental, emotional, and physical well-being are interconnected. My goal is to connect the dots, understand the bigger picture, and identify what may be contributing to your symptoms rather than jumping to conclusions. I'll ask thoughtful questions, listen without judgment, and encourage you to share at your own comfort level. We'll also discuss your goals, explore possible diagnoses, and begin developing an individualized plan, including whether medication may be appropriate. And if I'm being completely transparent, I often wish we had more time! There's so much value in understanding a person's journey, and one appointment can't always capture everything. That's why our conversations and understanding will continue to evolve as we work together.
Strengths
I don't just listen to what you're telling me. I pay attention to what your experiences may be telling us. Before becoming a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I spent over 20 years as a critical care registered nurse, developing strong clinical judgment, critical-thinking skills, and the ability to recognize subtle details in complex situations. One of my greatest strengths is looking beyond the surface, asking meaningful questions, and connecting the dots between your symptoms, physical health, relationships, experiences, and life circumstances. I believe the smallest details can sometimes reveal the biggest insights. I don't believe in rushing to assign a diagnosis. Anxiety, trauma, depression, sleep disturbances, and chronic stress can overlap and influence how we think, feel, and function. My goal is to understand the whole picture before making thoughtful, evidence-based recommendations. I also believe knowledge is empowering. I want you to understand the why behind your symptoms, the reasoning behind my recommendations, and how your treatment plan supports your goals. As a medication management specialist, I welcome honest conversations about medication concerns, cultural beliefs, and mental health stigma. You'll never be judged for considering medication—or for having reservations about it. Above all, I bring authenticity, compassion, seasoned clinical judgment, and a collaborative approach to every session. I'll meet you where you are while encouraging you to take an active role in your care.
Ideal clients
My ideal client is someone who is motivated for meaningful change and willing to take an active role in their personal growth. They value accountability, self-reflection, and are open to learning new ways of thinking, coping, and living. This individual understands that transformation is a process—not a quick fix—and is committed to improving their overall quality of life emotionally, mentally, and functionally.
Treatment methods
Supportive
Overall, my approach to treating these specialties is rooted in compassion, empathy, and a deep commitment to helping individuals restore their mental health and reclaim their lives. I am dedicated to providing comprehensive care that addresses the unique needs and challenges of each individual in a supportive and empowering manner.
Location
Virtual sessions