Physician Assistant

I am a provider at our North Bethesda clinic who provides psychiatric services!

My client’s issues are stress and depression due to Race- Based Traumatic Stress. The client is asking for ways to deal with problems on her job. She is experiencing intrusive thoughts, avoidance, arousal, being on grad, anger, irritability, headaches, insomnia, and muscle tension since she has gotten a new supervisor. The client goals are to find ways to deal with her boss who uses racial slurs when referring to her and other Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC). The client states she has been working at her current job for over 18 years and for most of that time has been able to navigate her way through challenges while receiving awards and advancements. However, lately she has found it more difficult to cope with daily racism and feels that she will blow up at her boss and loose her job and pension. She wants to work for another two years and retire with her full pension.

I can help by being a culturally competent therapist and use a person-centered approach to build rapport and establish safe therapeutic relationship. Then I would allow the client to share the narrative and validate their experiences. Then I would provide psychoeducation surrounding racism and how it can impact physical and mental health. Then I would use cognitive behavioral therapy and provide coping skills to help the client manage stress. I would also suggest self-care and mindfulness.

I have over 20 years of experience as a Physician Assistant. I am a Navy veteran. I have worked in several clinical settings such as OB/GYN, corrections, homeless shelters, occupational medicine, primary care, and military medicine. My philosophy about health is holistic. I believe to achieve wellness an individual’s mental health, physical health, and spirituality must be considered. I believe my faith in GOD has guided me on my journey and will continue to guide me through life. I will meet clients where you are so we can work together as a team to achieve their mental health goals. I am willing to work with clients and explore their issues, assist them in developing coping skills, and a mindset to transcend challenges in order for you to live a healthy, productive, and holistic life.