As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), I am dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based care to adults facing a wide range of mental health challenges. In my private practice, I specialize in treating conditions such as depression, anxiety, OCD, insomnia, alcohol and tobacco addiction, bipolar II disorder, and Asperger syndrome, as well as working with individuals on the autism spectrum. My approach to care is grounded in empathy, respect, and collaboration. I believe in tailoring treatment to the unique needs of each individual, ensuring that patients are active participants in their own care. I use a combination of pharmacological interventions and therapeutic techniques, including Motivational Interviewing (MI), to support patients in managing their symptoms and achieving their mental health goals. MI allows me to foster a non-judgmental, supportive environment where patients can explore their feelings and motivations for change, helping them overcome ambivalence and take steps toward improving their well-being. In addition to medication management, I focus on holistic care, considering the emotional, psychological, and social aspects of mental health. I strive to empower patients by providing education, encouraging self-efficacy, and offering ongoing support. Whether helping individuals manage the complexities of bipolar disorder or guiding patients through recovery from addiction, my goal is to help every patient achieve long-term mental wellness and lead a fulfilling life. With a deep commitment to compassionate care, I create a safe space where patients feel heard, respected, and supported on their journey to better mental health.

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

1. A Welcoming and Supportive Atmosphere First and foremost, clients can expect a compassionate and nonjudgmental environment. The first session is often the foundation for building trust, and I strive to create a space where clients feel safe to share their experiences, concerns, and symptoms. I understand that seeking mental health care can be challenging for some, and I make it a priority to approach each individual with empathy and patience. Whether you are new to mental health treatment or have had previous experiences, this initial session is focused on getting to know you and ensuring you feel comfortable. 2. Comprehensive Assessment and Evaluation The first session primarily focuses on gathering detailed information about your mental health, medical history, and lifestyle to develop a comprehensive understanding of your overall well-being. The assessment typically covers the following key areas: Mental Health History: I will ask questions about your mental health symptoms, including when they began, how they affect your daily life, and any prior mental health treatments you may have received. This includes discussing past diagnoses, therapies, or medications that have been effective or ineffective. Medical History: Your physical health is an important aspect of the evaluation. We will discuss your medical history, any chronic conditions, medications you are currently taking, and whether you have experienced any significant medical issues that could affect your mental health. Family History: Understanding your family’s mental health and medical history can provide valuable insights into genetic or hereditary factors that may contribute to your condition. I will ask about any mental health conditions or medical issues that run in your family. Current Medications: If you are taking any medications for mental health or other conditions, I will review them to ensure that there are no interactions or side effects that could impact your mental health. This also helps me tailor any new treatments to your existing regimen. Social and Environmental Factors: We will discuss your social support system, relationships, and any significant life events, such as trauma, stress, or major life changes. Understanding your environment and the people around you is crucial in tailoring your treatment plan. Substance Use: I will ask about any use of alcohol, tobacco, or drugs. This is a vital part of the assessment, as substance use can sig

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

As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), my greatest strengths stem from my ability to provide personalized, compassionate, and evidence-based care. These strengths help me effectively guide my patients toward better mental health outcomes. Here are the key strengths I bring to my practice: 1. Compassionate and Empathetic Care At the core of my practice is a genuine commitment to providing compassionate care. Mental health conditions often bring emotional distress, stigma, and feelings of isolation, and I understand that each patient’s experience is unique. My approach centers on empathy, ensuring that each individual feels heard and understood. This connection fosters a therapeutic relationship that builds trust and encourages open communication, making patients feel safe in sharing their concerns and challenges. Through active listening and non-judgmental support, I aim to create a comforting environment where patients feel empowered to take an active role in their treatment. This compassionate approach not only improves patient satisfaction but also enhances treatment adherence and outcomes, as patients are more likely to engage with their care plan when they feel supported. 2. Personalized, Individualized Treatment Plans A key strength is my ability to develop personalized treatment plans tailored to the unique needs of each patient. No two individuals are the same, and mental health conditions manifest differently across patients. My approach involves carefully evaluating each patient’s history, symptoms, lifestyle, and preferences before crafting a treatment plan that is specific to their situation. For example, I consider various pharmacological and therapeutic interventions, adjusting them based on the patient’s response. Whether I am managing medications for depression, anxiety, or OCD, or coordinating therapy for complex conditions, I ensure that my treatment plans are flexible and adaptive. Regular follow-ups and ongoing assessments allow me to make timely adjustments, ensuring that the care remains effective and responsive to changes in the patient’s health.

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

From a pharmacological standpoint, I am well-positioned to serve patients who require tailored medication management for various mental health conditions. As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), I prioritize evidence-based pharmacological treatments, ensuring that each patient receives individualized care suited to their unique needs and responses to medications. 1. Patients with Anxiety Disorders Anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder, and social anxiety disorder, often respond well to pharmacological interventions. The first-line treatment options include Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) and Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs), which work by increasing serotonin and norepinephrine levels in the brain. SSRIs such as sertraline and escitalopram are highly effective in reducing symptoms of anxiety by stabilizing mood and promoting relaxation. For patients who do not respond to first-line treatments, I may consider benzodiazepines for short-term relief during acute anxiety episodes, although they are generally prescribed with caution due to the risk of dependence. In some cases, beta-blockers like propranolol can help manage the physical symptoms of anxiety, such as rapid heart rate or tremors, especially in performance-related social anxiety. Additionally, for treatment-resistant anxiety, buspirone may be introduced as an adjunctive therapy. This non-benzodiazepine anxiolytic targets serotonin receptors differently and can help manage chronic anxiety without the sedative effects or addiction risks associated with other medications. 2. Individuals Suffering from Depression I am particularly well-suited to treat patients with major depressive disorder (MDD) and persistent depressive disorder (dysthymia). SSRIs and SNRIs are the primary pharmacological treatments for depression, with medications like fluoxetine, sertraline, and venlafaxine serving as first-line options. These medications increase serotonin or norepinephrine levels, which help improve mood and alleviate depressive symptoms over time. For patients with more severe or treatment-resistant depression, I may explore atypical antidepressants like bupropion, which targets dopamine and norepinephrine, or mirtazapine, which affects both serotonin and norepinephrine. These medications can be particularly helpful for patients who experience side effects with SSRIs or SNRIs, such as sexual

About Evan Donin