Sylvia Curtis
I’m a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years of healthcare experience. I trained at East Carolina University and have worked in high-level clinical settings, including Duke University, which has shaped my approach to providing thorough, evidence-based care.. I help adults who feel overwhelmed, stuck, or like their current treatment isn’t working find real relief through personalized, evidence-based care, including comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and medication management.
I work especially well with adults navigating anxiety, depression, and life’s many transitions—particularly those who appear to have it all together on the outside but feel overwhelmed internally.
Many of my patients are high-functioning on the outside—but internally dealing with anxiety, depression, burnout, or difficulty focusing. Some have tried therapy or medication before and didn’t get the results they were hoping for. That’s where I come in. My approach is collaborative, direct, and focused on results. I take time to understand your symptoms, your goals, and what’s actually getting in your way—so we can build a treatment plan that works for you. I provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and thoughtful medication management. Whether you’re starting treatment for the first time or adjusting a plan that hasn’t been effective, I’ll guide you through your options clearly and safely. I’m here to help.
First session
During your first session, we’ll take time to get to know you and understand what’s bringing you in. I’ll ask questions about your current concerns, symptoms, and history so we can build a clear picture of your needs and goals. We’ll also discuss what you’re hoping to get out of treatment and begin developing a plan that feels realistic and supportive for you. If appropriate, this may include talking through medication options as well as practical strategies to help you start feeling better. My goal is to create a calm, non-judgmental space where you feel heard, respected, and comfortable being open. You don’t need to have everything figured out—just showing up is a great first step.
Strengths
My greatest strengths are my ability to quickly understand what patients are experiencing, identify gaps in their current care, and develop treatment plans that actually work. I’m able to connect the dots between symptoms, life stressors, and treatment options in a way that makes the process feel clear and manageable. I create a space where patients feel truly heard and supported, while also providing direct, practical guidance. I work best with individuals who are ready for change but need the right support and direction to move forward and start feeling more in control.
Ideal clients
I work with adults ages 18 and older, including older adults, who are navigating anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and life transitions. Many of my clients are high-functioning in their daily lives—managing work, family, and responsibilities—but may feel overwhelmed, emotionally drained, or not quite like themselves internally. I am particularly well-positioned to support individuals who are experiencing stress, burnout, or significant life changes, including transitions related to relationships, career, or aging. I also work with clients who may feel stuck, unmotivated, or uncertain about the next steps in their mental health journey and are looking for guidance and clarity. My clients are often seeking practical tools, symptom relief, and a better understanding of themselves. They are open to a collaborative approach that may include both therapy-informed techniques and medication management, with the goal of feeling more balanced, stable, and in control of their lives.
Treatment methods
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
I incorporate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) into my practice to help clients better understand the connection between their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. CBT is a structured, goal-oriented approach that focuses on identifying unhelpful thought patterns and replacing them with more balanced, realistic perspectives. In my work with clients, I use CBT techniques alongside medication management to address symptoms of anxiety, depression, and mood disorders. This may include helping clients recognize negative thinking patterns, develop healthier coping strategies, and build practical skills to manage stress and emotional challenges in their daily lives. My approach is collaborative and supportive, allowing clients to feel empowered while making meaningful, lasting changes
Motivational Interviewing
I use Motivational Interviewing (MI) to support clients who may feel stuck, ambivalent, or unsure about making changes in their lives. Many of the individuals I work with are aware of what they want or need to do, but find it difficult to take the next step. MI helps create a space where we can explore that hesitation without judgment. In my approach, I focus on meeting clients where they are, using open-ended questions and reflective listening to help them clarify their goals, values, and motivations. Rather than directing or pushing change, I work collaboratively with clients to strengthen their own internal drive and confidence. I often integrate Motivational Interviewing alongside CBT and medication management, particularly when working with individuals navigating anxiety, depression, or life transitions. This allows for a more supportive and individualized approach, helping clients move forward at a pace that feels realistic and sustainable.
Location
Virtual sessions
Identifies as
Top specialties
Licensed in
- FloridaLicense APRN11031257
- WashingtonLicense ARNP.AP.70159986-NP