Trauma and PTSD therapists & psychiatrists in New Mexico

I am a double board-certified Psychiatric–Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years of experience across the continuum of psychiatric care, including acute psychiatric emergencies, inpatient and outpatient psychiatry, geriatric mental health, intellectual and developmental disability services, and healthcare management. I hold a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) and am currently completing my Doctorate, reflecting my ongoing commitment to clinical excellence, evidence-based practice, and lifelong learning.

Throughout my career, I have worked with individuals and families navigating a wide range of psychiatric conditions, from situational anxiety and depression to severe and persistent mental illness. My clinical experience includes extensive work with schizophrenia and psychotic disorders, bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD), trauma-related conditions, and mood instability across the lifespan. I am particularly experienced in caring for geriatric patients, individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and patients with complex medication regimens requiring careful evaluation, simplification, and long-term stabilization.

I also work closely with college-aged patients and adults who are navigating academic pressure, career transitions, family dynamics, identity development, and the cumulative stressors that can emerge during periods of high responsibility or change. Many of my patients are high-functioning individuals who appear “put together” on the outside but struggle internally with anxiety, rumination, intrusive thoughts, emotional dysregulation, or burnout. Others are managing chronic psychiatric illness while striving to maintain independence, relationships, and quality of life.

I am a licensed mental health therapist with a background in social work. I have a master's in clinical social work from the University of Wisconsin, Green Bay. I have experience working in outpatient therapy and medical settings, which has shaped my grounded and integrative approach to care. I work with adults and children navigating anxiety, life transitions, relationship challenges, professional stress, grief, and patterns that feel difficult to shift. I also support individuals experiencing self-doubt, boundary concerns, emotional overwhelm, and relational dynamics that leave them feeling unseen or unheard.

I'm Russ! As your therapist, it is my goal to see you become a better version of yourself. Asking for help is not easy for many, and you're to be commended for taking that first step. Life's challenges can be difficult to navigate, and everyone needs some help from time to time. I have seen a multitude of clients of all ages with diverse backgrounds. Being a good listener and having a non-judgmental approach are two of the things people ask for most in a therapist. With me, you will get both of those things! I am always present when my clients are experiencing stressful life challenges. My areas of expertise include Depression, Anxiety, Men's Health, Trauma, PTSD, Grief Issues, and Couples Therapy, I am specifically very experienced and specialized with Anxiety Disorders. I use a Cognitive Behavioral and Humanistic approach to help my clients bring out the best in themselves, but am also able to help those who may need to be in therapy more short-term with Solution-Focused therapeutic approaches. I like to use humor, challenging questions, and a direct approach. I think that growth and progress come from addressing the difficult issues head-on, but we can also make therapy a little more fun along the way.

Whether you’re navigating a major life transition, parenting a teenager, exploring adoption, or simply facing everyday challenges, you don’t have to do it alone. With 15 years of social work experience, I’m here to help you feel understood, supported, and empowered as you move toward the life you want to build.