Therapists answer…

For people that are hesitant to try therapy, what do you wish you could tell them?

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Makeba Matthews
Makeba Matthews, PMHNP-BC
Online & In-Person
For people that are hesitant to try therapy, what do you wish you could tell them?
Seeking help is a brave step, and it’s okay to feel uncertain. Therapy is a space to be heard without judgment, and each session is tailored to fit your unique needs. Together, we’ll explore what works best for you, fostering resilience and growth in a supportive and respectful environment.
I am Makeba Matthews, a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to providing compassionate care. With a focus on mental health and wellness, I specialize in assessing mental health needs, managing crises, and developing personalized treatment plans. Working closely with other healthcare professionals, I ensure that my patients receive comprehensive and individualized care. I am passionate about promoting mental health awareness and improving access to essential services. Throughout my career, I've gained expertise in medication management, patient education, and leading healthcare teams. I also teach and mentor nursing students, sharing hands-on clinical experience and ensuring the best practices in patient care. From being a staff nurse to a psychiatric practitioner, I am committed to delivering high-quality care. Beyond my professional roles, I lead a non-profit organization called ScrubLife4Ever, aimed at supporting healthcare workers and enhancing community wellness. Whether through initiatives like "Breakfast and Blanket" or "Hygiene on the Go," my goal is to make a positive impact. I'm excited to connect and share my journey and services to help those in need. Treatment philosophy: I believe in compassionate, patient-centered care that empowers individuals to achieve mental wellness. I engage closely with my patients, actively listening to their concerns and tailoring treatment plans to their unique needs. Collaboration is key—I work with a team of professionals to ensure comprehensive support for every patient. I focus on education, helping patients understand their options and the importance of medication management. With a trauma-informed approach, I treat everyone with respect and dignity, fostering a safe space for healing. My goal is to improve access to mental health services and promote awareness, so each patient feels seen, heard, and supported in their journey to recovery.
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Paige Avellar
LMHC
Online Therapy
For people that are hesitant to try therapy, what do you wish you could tell them?
I know that choosing to start therapy can be a very intimidating decision. I want my clients to know that all of your truths, the good the bad and the ugly, are safe with me. Take the leap! I will catch you!
Hey there! My name is Paige Avellar and I am Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida. I started my mental/behavioral health career in California as a Youth Care Professional working with at risk teens in the group home system. I was also volunteering as a Trauma Response Advocate for victims of sexual assault and domestic violence at the time. When I moved to San Diego, CA, I began working with children on the spectrum as a Registered Behavior Technician. During my time in Florida, I have worked with private practices that help clients manage anxiety, depression, and other common mental health symptoms. I have also worked with clients who struggle with substance abuse and co-occurring mental health problems. Just call me a jack of all trades! I’ll take a quick moment to be vulnerable and let you know that I am also a human that has a history of complex trauma! I’ve been through the healing process and I know how HARD it is to unlearn all of the intrusive thoughts and unhelpful behaviors that you’ve learned as a result of your trauma. I also know that the therapeutic process is not linear, so don’t worry; we’ll take our time and figure it out together. I practice from a Cognitive Behavioral perspective, which basically means I help you identify your problematic thoughts and how they affect your emotions and behaviors. Then we figure out how to challenge your problematic thoughts and replace them with healthier thoughts that lead to healthier feelings and behaviors! I totally understand that counseling can be intimidating; please know that my ultimate goal as a counselor is to encourage the people that I work with to wake up and choose to be their best and brightest selves every day! If you are interested in taking back your power over your mental health struggles and choosing joy every day, I would love to be the one to help you! Please feel free to contact me by phone at 904-372-3637 or by email at [email protected]. **Please note that I am only meeting with clients via phone or Zoom at this time.
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Karita Nussbaum
Therapist with specialties in substance use, adolescents, and most mental health concerns
Online Therapy
For people that are hesitant to try therapy, what do you wish you could tell them?
For those hesitant to try therapy, I wish I could tell them that therapy is a safe and supportive space where they can explore their thoughts and feelings without judgment. It's a collaborative process where we work together to identify challenges, set goals, and find solutions. Everyone faces difficulties, and seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Therapy can provide valuable insights, coping strategies, and a sense of empowerment. It's an opportunity for personal growth and a step towards a healthier, more fulfilling life. Taking that first step can be daunting, but it can lead to profound and positive changes.
I have a PhD in Counseling Psychology and masters in social work, I’m a Licensed Independent Social Worker and Licensed Independent Chemical Dependence Counselor. I like to help anyone find solutions to their problems, manage difficult feelings, and reach their goals. I also enjoy helping both youth and adults increase communication. I use a variety of therapy techniques including motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, rational emotive therapy, gestalt, and psychodynamic primarily. I generally do what I can to help clients reach their treatment goals. I am an independently licensed clinical social worker and chemical dependency counselor. I’ve provided therapy to a variety of mental health and substance problems for people ages 12-75. I enjoy helping people figure out the underlying obstacles to growth and success. I come alongside each client and we work together to explore the known and unknown, identify barriers, problems, and solutions, and set goals for the future. I’m not judgmental, I do my best to understand and encourage each person I work with. We are in this together! I believe that problems come from a variety of sources, sometimes our upbringing teaches us, sometimes thoughts influence what we do, and sometimes we have beliefs that aren’t in alignment with our goals. I believe we can change behavior if we change thoughts and beliefs. I believe everyone wants to live a better life, whatever that is for each of us. I also believe that two are better than one, which is why it’s so helpful to have an outside perspective! In my free time, I enjoy backpacking in the mountains, traveling, and making videos of the trips. I’m always ready for a fun adventure!
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Annie Thomas
Annie Thomas, PMHNP-BC
Online Therapy
For people that are hesitant to try therapy, what do you wish you could tell them?
I want to assure you that seeking help is a courageous and important step. Therapy is a safe space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings without judgment. It’s an opportunity to take control of your mental health, and I am here to guide you through it at your own pace, with compassion and understanding.
Hello! My name is Annie Thomas, and I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I’ve been in the healthcare field for almost 23 years, with 20 years of experience as a nurse. Throughout my career, I have been deeply passionate about helping individuals manage and overcome mental health challenges. I initially trained as a Registered Nurse in India and later advanced my studies in the U.S., earning both my Bachelor's and Master’s degrees in Nursing. My approach to care blends my medical knowledge with deep compassion, ensuring that I always prioritize my patients' well-being. I’m an active member of professional organizations such as the American Nurses Association, which helps me stay informed about the latest best practices in mental health care. My ultimate goal is to empower individuals to take control of their mental health and live happier, healthier lives. Let’s work together to address your mental health needs and enhance your overall quality of life. Treatment philosophy: My treatment philosophy is to take an integrative approach, blending conventional psychiatric treatments with alternative therapies. I consider the biological, psychological, social, and spiritual aspects of a person to create a holistic view of their overall well-being. My goal is to improve both mental health and quality of life, tailoring treatment plans to each individual’s specific needs for the best possible outcomes.
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Monica Pimentel
Monica Pimentel, PMHNP-BC
Online Therapy
For people that are hesitant to try therapy, what do you wish you could tell them?
I want people to know that mental health care is about creating a supportive and safe space where your concerns are taken seriously, and your journey toward healing is a collaborative process. Therapy is not just about fixing problems—it's about empowering you to thrive in life and feel your best self.
Hello! My name is Monica Pimentel , and I'm a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 20 years of healthcare experience. I’m passionate about helping adults and seniors improve their mental health and overall quality of life. My approach is holistic and patient centered, ensuring that every treatment plan is personalized to fit your unique needs and goals. At Brighter You Behavioral Health, I prioritize creating a safe, supportive space where you can feel comfortable sharing your concerns. Using evidence-based therapies, psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and brief supportive therapy, I am here to guide you on your path to mental wellness. Together, we can work toward brighter days and help you achieve a healthier, more fulfilling life. I look forward to supporting you on this journey! Treatment philosophy: My treatment philosophy is built on compassion, integrity, and respect. I believe in empowering patients to take control of their mental health through personalized, evidence-based care. I work collaboratively with you to create treatment plans that support your unique needs and goals, ensuring accessible and empathetic mental health care every step of the way.
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Tyler Andrew
Tyler Andrew, PMHNP-BC, APRN, MSN
Online Therapy
For people that are hesitant to try therapy, what do you wish you could tell them?
Therapy is a safe space where your concerns are heard without judgment. It’s about empowering you to navigate challenges and find balance. Starting therapy can be transformative, and I’m here to support you every step of the way, offering personalized, compassionate care.
Hello, I’m Tyler Andrew, a compassionate Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner committed to holistic, patient-focused care. My approach emphasizes listening and understanding each individual’s unique journey. I specialize in careful medication management, choosing affordable options with minimal side effects, and only what is necessary for effective treatment. With extensive experience in addiction recovery, behavioral health, and emergency care, I ensure a well-rounded approach to your mental health needs. I’m licensed in Colorado, Maryland, and Tennessee, and I offer care in private practice and telehealth settings, making mental health support accessible and convenient. Outside of my practice, I find joy in nature through gardening, farming, and walking. My goal is to build trust and collaboration, empowering you to take charge of your health while navigating challenges and celebrating progress. Reach out today for a personalized, holistic approach to mental wellness. Treatment philosophy: I believe in treating the whole person, not just their symptoms. I take a collaborative approach, listening to each patient’s story and creating personalized treatment plans tailored to their needs. Specializing in medication management and counseling, I aim to empower patients to take charge of their health. Together, we’ll navigate challenges, celebrate progress, and work towards achieving lasting mental wellness in a supportive, respectful environment.
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David Njunge
APRN
Online & In-Person
For people that are hesitant to try therapy, what do you wish you could tell them?
Therapy is a safe space where you can openly express yourself and work toward improving your quality of life. It’s not just about addressing challenges but also about discovering strengths and building resilience. I encourage you to take the first step, knowing that compassionate support is available every step of the way.
Hello! I'm David Njunge, your dedicated healthcare provider based in West Lafayette, Indiana. With board certifications as a Family Nurse Practitioner and extensive experience as a Registered Nurse since 2013, I bring a wealth of knowledge and compassion to your care. My journey in the medical field has been diverse, from working in dialysis centers to mental health units through various health systems. Now, as a Family Nurse Practitioner, I've been serving in family practice and urgent care settings, as well as specializing in elder and palliative care. I am committed to delivering patient-centered care and tailoring treatment plans to your unique needs. My experience includes working with advanced electronic health records, ensuring a seamless experience for you during visits. In my career, I've embraced adaptability and teamwork, always focusing on problem-solving to improve healthcare services. My certifications in CPR and as a DOT Medical Examiner demonstrate my commitment to maintaining high standards of care. When you come to see me, you can expect a friendly and attentive approach, always aimed at enhancing your health and well-being. I look forward to partnering with you on your health journey! Specialties: Addiction Addiction Medicine ADHD Allergies Anxiety Asthma Back pain Dehydration Depression Diabetes management Ear infections Family Medicine Fever Flu Flu symptoms Hypertension Insomnia Mental Health Opioid addiction Rashes Routine check-up Sinus infection Sore throat Substance abuse evaluation Urgent Care UTIs Treatment approach: Case Management Strategies Chronic Disease Management Culturally Sensitive Dialysis Patient Care Expertise Emergency Response Protocols Emotionally Focused Holistic Family Health Management Humanistic Mental Health Assessment Palliative Care Support Patient Education and Advocacy Person-Focused
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Christopher Parmanand
Christopher Parmanand, DNP, PMHNP-BC
Online & In-Person
For people that are hesitant to try therapy, what do you wish you could tell them?
Therapy can be a transformative journey that empowers you to overcome mental health challenges. If you're hesitant, know that the process is compassionate, nonjudgmental, and centered on helping you achieve stability and resilience. Therapy provides the tools to help you navigate difficult times and restore balance to your life.
Hello, I’m Dr. Christopher Parmanand, DNP, a psychiatric nurse practitioner committed to providing holistic and effective mental health care. With over 23 years in healthcare, I’ve worked in a variety of settings, including inpatient, outpatient, and residential addiction programs. This experience allows me to create individualized treatment plans that meet patients where they are and support them through their journey toward mental wellness. I work with children, adolescents, adults, and seniors, providing compassionate care for conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, and more. As a husband and father, I understand the complexities of mental health within family dynamics and treat each patient with the empathy and respect they deserve. I am dedicated to helping each patient build resilience, achieve stability, and thrive in their everyday lives. Treatment philosophy: I believe patients seek psychiatric care during some of life’s most difficult moments, so I strive to offer a compassionate, open-minded approach. I prioritize active listening, empathy, and support to foster mental health improvement. My goal is to empower each patient to reintegrate into their life and community with renewed resilience and functionality, enabling them to lead fulfilling lives.
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Oladunni Faminu
Dr. Oladunni Faminu, DNP, PMHNP-BC, FNP-BC
Online Therapy
For people that are hesitant to try therapy, what do you wish you could tell them?
Therapy is a safe, supportive space where you are welcomed without judgment. I understand that taking the first step can feel daunting, but my goal is to make you feel comfortable and at ease. Together, we can work through challenges at a pace that suits you, empowering you on your journey to better mental health.
Hello! I'm Oladunni Faminu, a caring and dedicated nurse practitioner with deep experience in both family and mental health care. I am passionate about providing patient-centered care that addresses your unique needs. My goal is to deliver compassionate and evidence-based care, whether through virtual assessments or in-person visits. I hold a Master's degree in Nursing with a specialty in Family Practice, and a Doctorate in Psychiatric Mental Health from Frontier Nursing University. I specialize in treating conditions like anxiety, stress, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and Vitamin D deficiency for individuals aged 13 to 88. I believe in a holistic approach, considering both the physical and emotional aspects of your health. I understand the emotional toll that health issues can have, and I'm here to offer empathy, reassurance, and a listening ear. With experience in various healthcare settings, I work closely with other professionals to ensure you receive the best possible care. I'm here to support you and meet you right where you are on your healthcare journey. Treatment philosophy: As a healthcare provider, my philosophy centers around compassion, patient-centered and holistic care. I believe every patient deserves personalized attention. I engage actively with my patients, fostering open communication to ensure they feel understood and respected. My core values include integrity, empathy, and continuous learning. I focus on preventative care and mental health, utilizing my expertise to diagnose and treat a range of conditions. Through collaboration with healthcare teams, I aim to create comprehensive care plans that prioritize each patient's unique needs and goals. Overall, my mission is to promote well-being, comfort, and a better quality of life for every individual I serve.
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