Arelys Itwaru

I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Master’s degree from St. John Fisher University and a BSN from Molloy College. My clinical background includes critical care nursing, where I cared for patients with complex medical and mental health needs, as well as private practice experience serving clients across Brooklyn, Queens, Staten Island, the Bronx, and Long Island.

I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults, and have facilitated group therapy sessions including DBT and family therapy. My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and individualized. I believe in seeing each person beyond a diagnosis and creating a safe space where you feel truly heard and understood.

If you're seeking support for anxiety, depression, mood concerns, life transitions, or family challenges, I look forward to partnering with you on your journey toward healing and balance.

My approach to care is collaborative, individualized, and grounded in respect for your pace. I believe that meaningful progress happens when clients feel safe, understood, and empowered — not rushed. From our first session, we work together to identify your goals, clarify what feels most pressing, and develop a plan that reflects your needs, values, and comfort level.

I practice patient-centered care, meaning treatment is tailored to you — not a one-size-fits-all model. Some clients come seeking structured, solution-focused strategies with clear goals and measurable outcomes. Others need space for emotional support, processing, and stabilization. Often, therapy includes both. I adapt my style based on where you are and what will serve you best in that season.

While I am compassionate and supportive, I am also goal-oriented. We identify practical steps you can apply in daily life and periodically evaluate progress to ensure our work is effective and meaningful. I believe therapy should translate into real-world change.

I integrate multiple therapeutic approaches depending on your needs, including elements of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), solution-focused strategies, art-based interventions, and faith-based support for clients who desire spiritually integrated care. I also promote holistic methods that consider lifestyle, stress management, sleep, nutrition, and overall wellness as part of mental health treatment.

I work with children, adolescents, and adults navigating anxiety, depression, mood disorders, emotional regulation challenges, family dynamics, life transitions, and stress-related concerns. Whether you are looking for structured skill-building or simply a steady, supportive presence during a difficult time, I meet you where you are and walk alongside you toward sustainable growth.

My goal is not just symptom relief — it is helping you build resilience, clarity, and confidence in your ability to move forward.