I am a dual board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Family Nurse Practitioner. I completed my post graduate training at National University in Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I graduated from Charles Drew University where I earned my master's in nursing/Family Nurse practitioner. I have extensive training in post-traumatic stress disorder at VA Long Beach Healthcare System and a certified Trauma-Informed specialist. Client-focused care, diagnose and administer psychotherapeutic treatments and or medications to treat mental, emotional, or behavioral disorders. My expertise lies in the ability to provide quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services including medication-assisted treatment in combination with counseling for chemical dependency and substance use disorders. My role is multidimensional, including educator, mental health advocate, and therapist.

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

The first session, a psychiatric evaluation, usually lasts between 45 to 60 minutes. We will start with brief introductions. Getting to know the client is imperative for client-focused care. Expect questions about mental and physical health as well as family history. This will be followed by questions about symptoms, specific concerns and challenges the patient is experiencing. A hypothesis as to what the problem is (ie - a diagnosis) will follow. Baseline labs, EKG or medical reports maybe requested as appropriate. Medication maybe prescribed to treat the problem. Therapy maybe recommended as appropriate. During our initial encounter, we will start by introducing ourselves and delving into information gathering, aiming to understand your background, concerns, and goals. Building a trusting relationship is crucial, and I strive to create a supportive and non-judgmental environment to establish rapport between us. The session will involve an assessment to comprehensively explore your needs and collaborate on setting goals for our work together. I will provide education about treatment options and work collaboratively with you to develop a care plan that aligns with your objectives. Addressing immediate needs will be a priority, ensuring we focus on your current concerns. Additionally, I will set clear expectations for our future sessions, discussing the frequency of appointments and your pivotal role in the treatment process. It's essential to discuss confidentiality and administrative details, such as office policies and fees, to ensure transparency and a clear understanding of our working relationship. I look forward to our first meeting and working together towards your well-being.

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

As a PMHNP for several years, my knowledge base, effective communication and collaboration skills are tools that I have inculcated in my practice to bring healing to patients who have had traumatic and stressful life experiences. I am also efficient and straight forward. You can reach out to my personal work email at any time for non-urgent questions. I check my email everyday (including weekends). I can get back to you typically in 24 hours.

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

I support my clients with medication management. I will utilize best practice that is evidence-based, a person-centered approach by providing unconditional positive regard and implementing active listening and supportive reflection to establish trust and build therapeutic rapport. I often use CBT, DBT interventions, relaxation and mindfulness and internal family systems in my practice, but I may employ various treatment types to support you. I have adapted Brené Brown's philosophy to my life and practice to help my patient navigate the intricacies of mental health with the goal to thrive. “Vulnerability sounds like truth and feels like courage. Truth and courage aren’t always comfortable, but they’re never weaknesses.” — Brené Brown

About Chioma onodugo