I am a Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) dedicated to providing compassionate and evidence-based care for individuals facing a range of mental health challenges. I specialize in diagnosing and treating conditions such as ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD, and mood disorders. My approach focuses on creating a safe and supportive environment where clients can explore their concerns, receive personalized treatment, and work towards achieving a greater sense of well-being. Through a combination of medication management, therapy, and practical strategies, I aim to empower clients to regain control over their mental health and lead more fulfilling lives.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
In a first session with me, clients can expect a welcoming and supportive environment where they have the opportunity to share their story and express their concerns. I prioritize creating a safe and non-judgmental space, allowing clients to feel comfortable discussing their mental health experiences, goals, and what brought them to seek care. During this initial meeting, I conduct a comprehensive assessment, which includes exploring their medical history, psychiatric history, family background, and any current symptoms they may be experiencing. I use open-ended questions to encourage clients to elaborate on their challenges, and I listen attentively to understand their unique needs and circumstances. Additionally, the first session focuses on building a collaborative foundation for treatment. I take time to explain my approach to care, discuss potential therapeutic options, and ensure that clients understand how we will work together towards their goals. We also discuss any concerns or questions they might have about the process, such as expectations around medication management, therapy, or the frequency of sessions. By the end of the first meeting, clients should feel that they have a clear understanding of the initial steps in their treatment plan and that they have a partner in their mental health journey who is committed to supporting them every step of the way.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
As a provider, one of my greatest strengths is my ability to build strong therapeutic relationships with my patients. I prioritize creating a safe, empathetic, and non-judgmental environment where patients feel heard and respected. This approach allows me to gain a deeper understanding of their needs and challenges, fostering trust and openness in our interactions. By actively listening and validating their experiences, I can better tailor my interventions to meet each patient’s unique situation. This connection is especially important in mental health care, as patients often face stigma and uncertainty about their conditions, and a strong rapport can be a critical factor in their engagement and progress in treatment. Another key strength is my commitment to providing evidence-based, individualized care. I stay updated with the latest research and guidelines in psychiatric care, ensuring that my patients receive treatments that are both scientifically validated and appropriate for their specific conditions. Whether it involves medication management, implementing therapeutic approaches like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or motivational interviewing, or integrating holistic strategies, I strive to offer well-rounded care that addresses both the psychological and physical aspects of mental health. Additionally, my ability to adjust treatment plans based on patient feedback and progress ensures that care remains responsive and dynamic, ultimately helping patients achieve their best possible outcomes.
Describe the client(s) you are best positioned to serve.
I am best positioned to serve clients who are navigating conditions such as Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), and various mood disorders. My experience and training enable me to understand the complexities of these conditions and to offer a blend of evidence-based practices and compassionate care tailored to each individual’s needs.
About Onyinye Akunna
Onyinye Akunna offers therapy covered by Buckeye Health Plan, Buckeye Health Plan (Managed Medicaid), CareSource - Medicaid, Medicaid - Buckeye Health Plan and UnitedHealthcare/Optum - Medicaid in Ohio.
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VirtualMy treatment methods
Supportive
In my practice as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I often use supportive therapy as a key part of my approach to patient care. Supportive therapy is centered on providing a safe, empathetic, and validating space for patients, which is particularly important for those dealing with anxiety, depression, and trauma. My role is to reinforce the patient's strengths, help them build coping mechanisms, and provide practical advice to address daily challenges. For example, when working with patients who experience overwhelming anxiety, I use supportive techniques like active listening and gentle reassurance to help them feel understood and validated. This can involve providing guidance on stress management strategies, such as deep breathing exercises or establishing daily routines that promote stability and reduce stressors. Supportive therapy also plays a vital role when addressing more complex conditions such as major depressive disorder (MDD) or bipolar disorder. In these cases, I focus on enhancing the patient's existing support system, while offering consistent encouragement and helping them set realistic, achievable goals. For instance, I might work with a patient to break down larger tasks into smaller, manageable steps, allowing them to regain a sense of control and accomplishment. By fostering a therapeutic relationship based on trust and collaboration, I aim to empower my patients to face their challenges with greater resilience and confidence. This approach not only helps in building a strong foundation for their mental health journey but also complements other treatment modalities like medication management or cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT).