Mrs. Shela West
Seeking help for your mental health is a courageous first step, and you don't have to navigate it alone. I'm Shela A. West, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner licensed in North Carolina and Virginia. Since beginning my career in behavioral health in 2013, I've had the privilege of caring for individuals across emergency psychiatry, inpatient and outpatient settings, community mental health, and crisis services. These experiences have shaped my compassionate, patient-centered approach to care. I specialize in treating adults experiencing anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and other mood and anxiety disorders. Whether you're facing a recent life challenge or have struggled with symptoms for years, my goal is to help you gain clarity, restore balance, and improve your overall quality of life.
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.
I believe that healing begins with understanding. My approach combines evidence-based medication management, patient education, and supportive psychotherapy to create a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs. I take time to explain diagnoses, discuss treatment options, review the benefits and potential side effects of medications, and answer your questions so you can make informed decisions about your care. I want every patient to feel like an active partner in their treatment—not just someone receiving a prescription. Above all, I strive to create a welcoming, judgment-free environment where you feel heard, respected, and empowered. Together, we'll work to move beyond fear, misinformation, and stigma so you can approach your mental health with confidence, understanding, and hope.
First session
I understand that seeking mental health care can feel overwhelming, especially if it's your first time. My goal is to make your first appointment feel welcoming, informative, and collaborative in a safe, judgment-free environment where you feel heard and respected. During our 60-minute session, I'll complete a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation by exploring your current concerns, mental health and medical history, lifestyle, and treatment goals. Together, we'll work to better understand what you're experiencing and develop a personalized treatment plan that aligns with your needs. As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I combine comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, medication management, patient education, and supportive psychotherapy to help you achieve emotional stability and improved well-being. If medication is appropriate, I'll explain why it's being recommended, discuss the benefits, potential side effects, and answer any questions you may have so you feel confident in your treatment decisions. My goal is for you to leave your first appointment feeling heard, informed, and empowered—with a clear understanding of your diagnosis, treatment options, and the next steps in your mental health journey.
Strengths
I believe that understanding your mental health is just as important as treating it. My approach combines evidence-based medication management with education, compassion, and collaboration, so you leave each appointment feeling informed—not overwhelmed. I take the time to explain diagnoses, discuss treatment options, review the benefits and potential side effects of medications, and answer your questions openly and honestly. I want you to feel like an active participant in your care, not just a recipient of a prescription. Whether you're seeking help for anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, or another mental health concern, my goal is to provide a safe, nonjudgmental space where you feel heard, respected, and empowered. My goal is to help you move beyond the illusion that your diagnosis defines you. With understanding, the right treatment, and a collaborative plan, healing becomes possible.
Ideal clients
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.
Treatment methods
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
Help clients with identifying and challenging negative thought patterns and replacing them with healthier, more realistic ones.
Dialectical Behavior (DBT)
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.
Location
Virtual sessions
Identifies as
Top specialties
Other specialties
Serves
Doesn't specialize in
Licensed in
- North CarolinaLicense 5015301
- VirginiaLicense 0024182383