Find a psychiatrist in Union, NJ — covered by insurance

As a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-BC), I provide comprehensive, evidence-based care to individuals receiving inpatient and outpatient services through Rutgers Behavioral Health. I work with patients navigating a wide range of mental health challenges, with a focus on individualized, compassionate treatment. My goal is to help you achieve symptom relief, strengthen resilience, and move toward a more stable and fulfilling life aligned with your personal goals

I’m a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with nearly two decades of experience supporting individuals and families through behavioral health and substance use challenges. My approach is grounded in trauma‐informed care, cultural sensitivity, and meeting people exactly where they are. I believe healing happens when people feel seen, heard, and supported without judgment.

I completed my Master of Science in Nursing at Monmouth University and have worked across inpatient, outpatient, community, and addiction treatment settings. My background includes detox and MAT services, crisis stabilization, care coordination, and leading interdisciplinary teams. I also serve as a clinical instructor for BSN students, which keeps me connected to education, mentorship, and the next generation of nurses.

MSN, APN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC

A Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner provides mental health services for patients from adolescence through adulthood (12-65+). Leona went to Widener University for Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing, Walden University for Master of Science in Nursing as a Family Nurse Practitioner, and Wilkes University for Post-Masters Certification as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.

Your mind and body are speaking—are you listening? As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over a decade of experience in high-stakes intensive care, I understand what many overlook: mental and physical health are inseparable.

In critical care, I saw how stress, trauma, and anxiety manifest in the body—tight chests, sleepless nights, unexplained pain. And when the pandemic hit, I witnessed the silent emotional suffering of patients, families, and healthcare workers alike. That moment changed everything.

I chose psychiatry because healing your mind is just as vital as healing your body. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, or like no one sees what you’re carrying—you don’t have to hold it alone. I’m here to help you reconnect, restore, and rise.

Let’s work together to make your mental wellness a priority. Click below to book your first step toward clarity, calm, and confidence.

I am a nurse practitioner with over 20years experience in psychiatric mental health. I am board certification as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner across life span. I completed my advanced Graduate Certification in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Fairleigh Dickinson University in Teaneck, New Jersey. My area of specialization includes treatment of Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, Posttraumatic disorder (PTSD), Sleep issues and medication management.

Hi there! I'm the heart behind Joyful Minds Mental Health Services LLC, where I believe that truly caring for someone means caring for the whole person. I offer a simple, safe, and compassionate space where you are always seen, heard, and respected, not just your symptoms, but your story. Everyone story looks different, whether it's anxiety, depression, or just trying to get back to feeling like yourself, I will work closely with you to create treatment plan tailored to your unique needs. Ensuring you receive the support and expert guidance needed to live a fulfilling life.

As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), my approach is centered on building a collaborative partnership with clients, actively listening to their needs and concerns to develop a tailored plan that empowers them to achieve their goals. My style is warm, supportive, and detailed assessment to reach a correct diagnosis in treating patients. .

I bring both professional expertise and genuine empathy to my work. Having navigated my own experiences with immigration, career changes and motherhood, I understand how destabilizing major life transitions can be. Those experiences shape how I show up for patients. I believe people do best when they feel truly seen, heard, and supported. My approach is integrative and individualized, grounded in evidence based care while also guided by curiosity, compassion, and a deep respect for each person’s unique story and capacity for growth.

My focus is on psychiatric medication management, including diagnosis and ongoing care for conditions such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood disorders, and related concerns. I do not provide weekly or primary psychotherapy, and may not be the best fit if you are seeking therapy-only services. If you are looking for ongoing talk therapy, I encourage you to select a licensed therapist (LCSW, LPC, LMFT, PsyD, or PhD) whose profile and approach best meet your needs.

Notice for New Jersey Clients: Due to current New Jersey law, stimulant medications cannot be prescribed without an in-person assessment. Because my practice is exclusively online, I am unable to prescribe these medications. I am, however, happy to help you explore non-controlled medication options for ADHD and other supportive strategies.

Please also note: I do not offer medical marijuana evaluations or cards.