Molly Snell
I'm a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a Master of Science in Nursing from California State University San Marcos, where I graduated in 2021. Since then, I've provided psychiatric care across the lifespan, with a strong focus on supporting children, adolescents, transitional age youth, and their families. My clinical experience includes treating a wide range of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, trauma-related conditions, and autism spectrum disorders. I specialize in comprehensive medication management, psychoeducation, and supportive collaboration. I have worked within inpatient hospitals, outpatient clinics, and low-income county clinics.
Since then, I've provided psychiatric care across the lifespan, with a strong focus on supporting children, adolescents, transitional age youth, and their families.
First session
During psychiatric evaluations and medication management sessions, clients can expect a thoughtful, collaborative, and supportive experience. I take the time to understand your symptoms, experiences, concerns and treatment goals - not just your diagnosis. Together, we'll explore treatment options in a way that feels transparent and empowering. You can walk away with: A clear understanding of your diagnosis and why certain medications are being considered Education about how medications work, potential benefits, and possible side effects A space to ask questions, share concerns, and be heard without judgement Regular check-ins to monitor progress and adjust treatment as needed A treatment plan tailored to your unique needs and life circumstances My goal is to ensure you feel informed, safe, and supported every step of the way.
Strengths
I am not "just a prescriber." I am a partner in care - someone who combined medication management with therapy, education, and compassion, delivered in a flexible and accessible way!
Ideal clients
I work best with clients who are ready for change and open to support. Whether you're navigating anxiety, mood challenges, ADHD, or trauma, you value a thoughtful, collaborative approach. You're curious about yourself, willing to try new strategies, and interested in finding the right balance with medication. Together, we focus on sustainable progress, insight, and building a life that feels more manageable and fulfilling.
Treatment methods
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
As a PMHNP providing medication management, I frequently weave CBT strategies into visits to maximize treatment outcomes. For example: • When starting or adjusting medication, I use CBT-based psychoeducation to help patients set realistic expectations and track progress. • I introduce thought records or cognitive restructuring techniques to reduce catastrophic thinking about side effects or symptom flare-ups. • During follow-ups, I encourage patients to practice behavioral activation, helping them gradually re-engage in meaningful activities alongside medication treatment. This integration allows patients to see medication as one part of a larger recovery plan, while also developing skills that support long-term resilience.
Psychoeducation
1. Explaining Diagnoses and Symptoms • You break down complex psychiatric terms into clear, non-judgmental language. • For example: explaining how anxiety can cause both physical (racing heart, muscle tension) and mental (worry, rumination) symptoms. • You normalize experiences to reduce stigma and shame. 2. Discussing Treatment Options • You review the role of medications, including benefits, risks, and expected timelines. • You emphasize that medication is often one tool among many, alongside therapy, lifestyle changes, and support systems. • You check understanding and encourage questions to promote collaboration. 3. Teaching Coping Strategies • You incorporate CBT-based tools (challenging unhelpful thoughts, using behavioral activation). • You teach grounding techniques, sleep hygiene, and relaxation skills as part of supportive therapy. • You give patients handouts, worksheets, or homework to practice between visits. 4. Medication Management Education • You prepare patients for what to expect when starting or changing medications. • You review how to track side effects, symptom improvement, and lifestyle interactions (sleep, nutrition, substance use). • You reinforce adherence by connecting medication to patient goals (e.g., “taking this regularly can help you focus enough to get through your workday without panic attacks”). 5. Family Involvement • With patient consent, you provide psychoeducation to family members about what a diagnosis means, how they can support the patient, and warning signs to look for. • This helps reduce miscommunication and builds a supportive environment. ⸻ Why It’s Important • Promotes informed consent and shared decision-making. • Increases treatment adherence and engagement. • Reduces fear, stigma, and uncertainty around psychiatric conditions. • Encourages patients to be active participants in their own recovery.
Supportive
In supportive therapy sessions, I focus on: • Creating a safe, non-judgmental environment where clients feel comfortable discussing concerns • Active listening and validation of emotional experiences • Helping clients process stressors and difficult life situations • Strengthening coping skills and emotional regulation strategies • Encouraging self-awareness and insight into patterns, triggers, and behaviors • Supporting problem-solving and decision-making during challenging situations • Reinforcing personal strengths and resilience Supportive therapy can be helpful for: • Anxiety and chronic stress • Depression and low motivation • Trauma-related symptoms • Relationship and interpersonal challenges • Life transitions and adjustment difficulties As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I often combine supportive therapy with medication management to help clients experience greater stability, improved coping, and progress toward their mental health goals.
Location
Virtual sessions
Identifies as
Top specialties
Other specialties
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Licensed in
- CaliforniaLicense 95018198