Ernestine Hughes

My name is Ernestine Hughes, and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with training from Radiance College and Walden University. I work with adults, and I am committed to providing psychiatric care that is safe, thorough, and genuinely centered on each person I serve.

My primary clinical focus includes PTSD, bipolar disorder, anxiety, OCD, and depression. I also work with clients navigating trauma, substance use and addiction, panic disorders, eating disorders, borderline personality, ADD/ADHD, maternal mental health, infertility, domestic violence, anger management, grief, chronic and physical health conditions, diabetes, family and relationship concerns, men's issues, gender dysphoria, identity, and stress.

I offer neuropsychological testing for clients who need a deeper understanding of their cognitive functioning. And I provide affirming, knowledgeable care for individuals navigating gender dysphoria and identity — a space where you can show up as you are without explanation or apology.

Safety, collaboration, and clear communication are not just values I hold — they are the foundation of every clinical relationship I build.

My approach begins with thoroughness. Before I make any recommendations, I invest in understanding — a comprehensive assessment of who you are, what you're experiencing, and what you're hoping to achieve. That foundation shapes everything that follows.

I use Trauma Focused CBT for clients carrying PTSD and trauma, including those who have experienced domestic violence or interpersonal harm — bringing a structured, evidence-based approach to some of the most difficult experiences a person can carry. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) addresses the thought patterns and behavioral cycles driving depression, anxiety, OCD, and mood disorders. Motivational Interviewing meets clients in ambivalence, particularly those navigating substance use or uncertainty about change. Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) anchors work in possibility and forward momentum, and Behavior Management Therapy builds the practical skills that support lasting change.

I take the intersection of physical and mental health seriously — for clients managing diabetes, chronic illness, infertility, or maternal health challenges, I understand that these are not separate concerns. They are part of the same person, and they deserve integrated attention.

My goal in every session is to empower — through education, therapeutic support, and honest, compassionate care.

In our first session, I want you to feel that you've found a safe space — one where you can speak openly, be heard without judgment, and begin to make sense of what you're carrying.

We'll talk about what's brought you in, your history, and what you're hoping our work together might help you change. I'll ask questions, listen carefully, and pay attention to the full picture of your life — because good care requires understanding the whole person, not just the diagnosis.

By the end of our first session, we'll have a clearer shared picture and a beginning plan. Medication options will be discussed openly where appropriate, and every next step will be one you understand and agree to.

You deserve care that takes you seriously. That's what I'm here to provide.