PMHNP, 4 years of experience
Welcome My name is Joy Anne Safo, and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to supporting individuals and families through every stage of their mental health journey. My experience spans diverse settings—including forensics, crisis stabilization units, outpatient care, home health psychiatry, and consultation-liaison (psychosomatic) medicine. These roles have allowed me to care for people in vulnerable moments and deepened my commitment to compassionate, person-centered care. Before becoming a nurse practitioner, I served as a mental health registered nurse for several years. I was honored to walk alongside many courageous individuals and often wished I could do more—offer deeper care, guide treatment, and advocate more strongly. That desire led me to pursue advanced training, earning my Master of Science in Nursing from Georgia College and State University in 2020. My approach blends evidence-based medication management with space for spiritual support and self-help tools as desired. I believe healing isn’t one-size-fits-all. I see each person as more than a diagnosis—a whole being shaped by mind, body, spirit, and environment. Whether you’re just beginning to seek mental health support or have been walking this road for a while, I’m here to meet you where you are. My goal is to create a safe, supportive space where you feel seen, heard, and empowered. Together, we’ll work toward meaningful goals—whether that’s restoring emotional balance, building relationships, sustaining employment, or rediscovering joy. Outside of work, I nourish my own well-being through prayer, nature walks, reading, gardening, sewing, and creative reflection. These quiet joys keep me grounded and remind me of the healing and growth I aim to nurture in others. Thank you for considering me as part of your journey. I look forward to partnering with you in care that honors your story and supports your goals.
In our first session, we’ll focus on getting to know each other. I’ll ask about what’s bringing you in, your history, and what goals you’d like to work toward. This is a safe, judgment-free space- share only what you’re comfortable with. We’ll talk through treatment options, including medication, therapy, and holistic or faith-based supports if that’s important to you. By the end, we’ll create a care plan that reflects your needs, values, and preferences. My goal is for you to feel heard, supported, and hopeful about your next steps.
My greatest strength lies in my ability to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients feel truly seen, heard, and valued. I lead with empathy and curiosity, which helps build trust and allows for deeper, more meaningful work to take place—especially with clients who may have felt misunderstood or dismissed in the past. What stands out about my approach is that I treat the whole person, not just a diagnosis. I blend evidence-based medication management with supportive therapy and holistic care—mind, body, spirit, and environment. I also integrate cultural sensitivity and, when desired, faith-based support to meet clients where they are. Many clients tell me they feel more empowered, more hopeful, and more in control of their lives after working with me. My approach isn’t rushed or one-size-fits-all—it’s collaborative, respectful, and rooted in helping people heal and grow in a way that feels authentic to them.
Who I’m Best Positioned to Serve: -Adults ages 18 and up -Individuals experiencing: -Depression and mood disorders (Bipolar disorders) -Generalized anxiety and panic disorders -ADHD -Schizophrenia/psychotic disorders -Dual diagnosis (mental health + substance use) -Alzheimer’s disease with behavioral disturbances -Clients already prescribed Suboxone who need continued support with Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) -Need support transitioning from inpatient or crisis care to outpatient stability
I incorporate a compassion-focused approach by listening carefully to your experiences and concerns, creating a safe, nonjudgmental space where you feel supported. I work collaboratively with you to find the most effective medication plan that respects your unique needs and reduces self-criticism around mental health challenges. This approach helps promote healing not just through medicine, but through kindness and understanding toward yourself throughout the process.