(she/her)
Hi, I'm Dr. Awawu Agbabiaka — and if you've been searching for a psychiatric provider who truly gets the full picture, I think we might be a great fit. I'm a Doctoral-prepared, board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (DNP, PMHNP-BC) with roots at Howard University, George Washington University, and the University of Maryland School of Nursing. Over the past decade-plus, I've worked across some of the most complex clinical settings in the DC-Maryland region — from Johns Hopkins and the University of Maryland Medical Center to crisis stabilization, detox units, and community health. My clinical background is unusual in the best way: I specialize in both psychiatric care and substance use disorders, and I've spent years working with people whose mental health and addiction struggles are deeply intertwined. I've prescribed and managed buprenorphine, methadone, and naltrexone, supported people through detox and into long-term recovery, and worked in jails, hospitals, and outpatient settings. That breadth of experience means I'm rarely caught off guard — and I bring that steadiness into every patient relationship. I work with adults, adolescents, perinatal and postpartum women, members of the LGBTQ+ community, first responders, and veterans. My specialties include anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, trauma, and co-occurring mental health and substance use conditions. My style is collaborative and trauma-informed. I take a holistic view — your history, your environment, your goals — and I'll always work alongside your therapist or PCP, not in a silo. If you're a therapist who's been looking for a prescriber who communicates, follows through, and treats your clients with the same care you do, I'd genuinely love to connect. I offer telehealth across Maryland. Currently accepting new patients.
During their first session at Dr. Awa, clients can expect a welcoming and supportive environment where they are met with empathy, understanding, and a commitment to their well-being. Dr. Awa and her team prioritize creating a safe space for individuals struggling with mental health and substance use disorders. The session will begin with a comprehensive assessment, where Dr. Awa will take the time to understand each client’s unique experiences, concerns, and goals. Rather than placing blame, she focuses on constructive solutions tailored to each individual's needs. Clients can expect open and judgment-free discussions about their symptoms, medical history, and any previous treatments. Overall, the first session is designed to establish trust, provide clarity on the treatment process, and help clients take meaningful steps toward improved mental health and well-being.
As a provider, Dr. Awa greatest strengths lie in her compassionate, solution-focused approach to mental health care. She is deeply committed to empowering individuals struggling with mental health and substance use disorders, ensuring they feel heard, supported, and respected. Her extensive education and clinical expertise allow her to provide comprehensive, evidence-based care tailored to each patient’s unique needs. She specializes in co-occurring disorders, medication-assisted treatment, and addiction medicine, offering holistic and effective solutions. Beyond clinical care, Dr. Awa is an advocate, educator, and mentor. She actively works to improve mental health services through community outreach, professional mentorship, and public education initiatives. Her involvement in organizations like the Maryland Health Care Commission and Lynn’s Gift Inc. demonstrates her dedication to broader systemic change. Above all, she prioritizes building trust with her patients, rejecting the “blame game” in favor of constructive, empowering strategies that promote healing and long-term well-being. Her ability to connect with patients, provide clear and actionable solutions, and remain a steadfast ally in their journey makes her an exceptional provider.
Our primary goal is to accept you as you are, help you initiate the care you need, and maintain the goals you create. Call today to see if AIM Behavioral Health Services is right for you! With telehealth appointments available, we take pride in our convenience and approachability!
Other specialties
I identify as
Supportive
Patients can expect a non-judgemental, supportive, and transparent provider. I have dedicated myself to motivating patients to be the best version of themselves through medication management and evidence-based therapies. I look forward to working with you!
Motivational Interviewing
You can expect Motivational Interviewing as a collaborative, client-centered approach to support meaningful behavior change. My focus is on building trust, exploring ambivalence, and strengthening each client’s own motivation by honoring their values, goals, and autonomy. Through reflective listening and guided questions, I help clients increase insight, confidence, and readiness for change at their own pace.
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
To help clients identify and change unhelpful thought patterns and behaviors that impact their mood and daily functioning. My approach is structured, practical, and collaborative, focusing on building coping skills, increasing self-awareness, and supporting clients in making meaningful, lasting changes. I tailor CBT techniques to each client’s goals, strengths, and lived experience.
Solution Focused Brief Treatment
To help clients identify strengths, build on what’s already working, and move toward meaningful goals. My approach is collaborative and future-oriented, emphasizing practical strategies, resilience, and small, achievable steps that support lasting change. I focus on empowering clients to recognize their capabilities and create solutions that align with their values and desired outcomes.
Psychoeducation
To help clients better understand their symptoms, diagnoses, and treatment options in a clear and supportive way. My approach focuses on increasing insight, normalizing experiences, and empowering clients with knowledge so they can make informed choices and actively participate in their healing process.