Allow me to introduce myself, I'm Shela A. West, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) deeply dedicated to improving the mental well-being of my clients. Throughout my career, I've had the privilege of serving individuals across diverse healthcare settings, including behavioral health emergency departments, inpatient and outpatient care, women's health, and case management. My practice revolves around the concept of "Illusions Dissolved." Through medication management, I not only provide education on each medication, including benefits and side effects, but also aim to dissolve any misconceptions or illusions surrounding mental health treatment. I encourage patients to actively participate in their healthcare journey, empowering them with the knowledge, skills, and attitudes to advocate for themselves in our stigmatized society.
During the initial session, patients can expect a comprehensive approach aimed at fostering a strong therapeutic alliance. Building rapport is prioritized, laying the foundation for a trusting relationship. I focus on educating patients and families, providing insights into their condition and treatment options. Additionally, I conduct thorough assessments to diagnose, treat, and manage acute and chronic mental illness, while offering psychotherapy to address underlying issues. With the aim of stabilizing the patient, I undertake the responsibility of prescribing and managing medications, educating on proper usage, and closely monitoring their efficacy.
As a mental health provider, I possess a deep understanding of mental health disorders and the complexities surrounding them. I am committed to staying current with the latest research and best practices to ensure that I provide the highest standard of care to my patients. With my expertise, I empower individuals to break free from limiting beliefs, rediscover their inner strength, and embark on a journey of healing and self-transformation.
I take pride in cultivating a welcoming and positive atmosphere. My mission is to help individuals overcome the challenges of anxiety, depression, PTSD, and Bipolar Disorder. I understand that each person's journey is unique, and my approach is built on empathy, respect, and a commitment to personalized care.
Help clients with identifying and challenging negative thought patterns and replacing them with healthier, more realistic ones.
During sessions, we incorporate both cognitive-behavioral techniques and mindfulness practices. Teaching clients skills in four key areas: mindfulness, interpersonal effectiveness, emotion regulation, and distress tolerance.