Board certified in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, a graduate of George Mason University. Filipino-American, with years of clinical experience in Asia, Middle East, and the United States. My upbringing has provided me with a firsthand awareness of the inherent inequalities and many obstacles that life may present that may push some individuals to severe mental stress or illness. Nevertheless, I choose to remain optimistic and resilient when confronted with challenges. Thus, I want to help individuals with mental health struggles- searching for hope and professional support. I follow evidence-based medications, however, I am CAUTIOUS about Polypharmacy. My approach is to view medication as a TOOL rather than a universal solution for all your mental health problems. Currently, I help individuals who struggle with mental health and substance use disorders. Passion drives my endeavors, both professionally and personally. I find immense fulfillment in the field of psychiatry, where I am privileged to witness the transformation of lives. I believe that mental well-being is THE cornerstone of health. My goal is to empower my clients, by helping them understand their diagnoses and the evidence-based medications available.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
During the initial session, you can expect a thorough and compassionate process focused on data gathering and understanding your unique story. This foundational meeting is designed to create a safe and supportive environment where you feel comfortable sharing your experiences, challenges, and goals. We'll also discuss how we'll work together, then dive into your background- what's happening in your life right now, and any mental health issues you're facing. It's important to talk about these things so I can fully understand where you're coming from. We'll look at your symptoms, your day-to-day life, and any other factors that might be affecting your mental health. At the same time, we'll talk about what you want to achieve through therapy. Whether it's dealing with certain symptoms, improving your relationships, or just personal growth, setting clear goals from the start helps make sure our time together meets your needs. Setting these goals together is a key part of creating a treatment plan that's based on solid evidence and tailored just for you. I'm here to listen carefully, understand your situation, and offer feedback with kindness and respect. Using the latest research and proven methods, we'll build a strong foundation for your journey toward wellness. This first session is just the start of a supportive relationship where, together, we'll tackle the challenges you're facing and work towards the positive changes you're aiming for.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
With my years of experience in both psychiatry and primary care, I'm dedicated to addressing the interconnected nature of both physical and mental well-being. This ensures that your care is truly comprehensive and tailored to your unique needs. Cultural sensitivity is a fundamental aspect of my practice. Growing up in the Philippines, working in Saudi Arabia, and now helping clients in the United States- has given me a rich appreciation for different cultures and perspectives. My diverse professional journey has equipped me with the skills to provide care that honors your unique background and values, ensuring a more inclusive and meaningful therapeutic experience. Empowerment through education is a vital aspect of our collaboration. I find immense satisfaction in sharing insights about your diagnoses, treatment options, and the therapeutic process. Equipped with knowledge, you become an active participant in your healing journey, making informed choices and taking ownership of your well-being. Building resilience is a personal passion of mine. Life can present challenges, and I am dedicated to providing you with the tools and coping strategies needed to navigate these difficulties with strength and grace. Drawing from my practice of daily meditation and dedication to self-care through activities like prayer, I understand the profound impact of mind-body practices on mental health. I often integrate mindfulness techniques into our sessions, helping you cultivate calm, self-awareness, and balance. Our therapeutic journey is a collaborative one. Your insights and perspective are invaluable in shaping our work together. I see our partnership as a space where we jointly set goals, explore insights, and chart a course toward your desired outcomes. Lastly, my commitment to continuous learning ensures that I stay updated with the latest advancements in psychiatry and mental health. This ongoing education enables me to offer you the most effective and evidence-based approaches.
About Grace Soistman, PMHNP-BC
Grace Soistman, PMHNP-BC offers therapy covered by UnitedHealthcare/Optum - Medicaid in Virginia.
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VirtualMy treatment methods
Solution Focused Brief Treatment
Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) is a therapeutic approach that emphasizes building solutions rather than focusing on problems. It is future-oriented, goal-directed, and centers on what the client wants to achieve rather than on the issues that made them seek help. Key principles of SFBT include identifying and amplifying the client’s strengths and resources, focusing on exceptions to the problem, and envisioning a preferred future. In my practice, I use SFBT by helping clients set clear, achievable goals and encouraging them to recognize past successes and current resources they can utilize. For example, with clients facing anxiety, I help them identify times when they successfully managed their anxiety and explore the strategies they used. We then work together to apply these strategies to current challenges. By focusing on their strengths and what is working, clients often feel more empowered and optimistic about their ability to make positive changes. This approach is particularly useful in a busy clinical setting as it can lead to meaningful improvements in a relatively short period.
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
I frequently employ Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) as a core treatment method. I utilize CBT to help patients understand the relationship between their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. By identifying and challenging cognitive distortions—such as catastrophizing or "should" thinking—I work with patients to reframe negative thoughts and develop healthier perspectives. This approach is particularly effective in managing anxiety, depression, and obsessive thinking. I also integrate CBT with medication management when appropriate, tailoring interventions to each patient's unique needs and goals to promote long-term well-being.
Dialectical Behavior (DBT)
I use Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) in my practice, particularly when working with patients who have personality disorders, such as borderline personality disorder, as well as those with substance use issues. DBT's focus on distress tolerance, emotion regulation, interpersonal effectiveness, and mindfulness is instrumental in helping these patients manage impulsivity, emotional instability, and unhealthy coping mechanisms. I often integrate DBT techniques to teach patients healthier ways to cope with distress and improve emotional resilience, which can be particularly effective in addressing both personality disorders and co-occurring substance use disorders.
Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)
I use EFT to help clients identify their underlying emotions and unmet needs, facilitating open communication and creating a safe environment for them to express vulnerability. This method has been particularly effective in working with couples and individuals dealing with attachment issues or relational distress, as it emphasizes emotional bonding and the repair of negative interaction cycles.
Christian Counseling
This approach involves combining evidence-based psychological techniques with Christian principles, offering spiritual guidance alongside mental health treatment. I work collaboratively with patients who express a desire for faith-based counseling, using scripture, prayer, and discussions of faith to support emotional healing. This method is tailored to the individual's spiritual beliefs, allowing for a holistic treatment approach that respects both psychological and spiritual well-being, while ensuring the counseling remains person-centered and aligned with ethical practices.