My name is Melanie Ogburn and I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner.

I became a nurse eighteen years ago. Since then I have pursued further education as time and finances allowed it, many times working full time while taking classes on the side. Finally, in August 2022, I graduated with my desired degree: psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. My education journey includes licensed practical nursing at a local college, associate degree in nursing from Pennsylvania College of Health Sciences, bachelor degree in nursing at Liberty University, and a masters in psychiatric advanced practice nursing from Wilkes University. I also completed a year towards a masters in counseling at The Seattle School of Theology and Psychology.

I approach mental health with a holistic view. Our mental health has direct bearing on our social, emotional, physical, and spiritual wellbeing. The ability to process our emotions and experiences will better our overall health and improve our relationship with ourselves, others, and the world around us.

Due to my holistic approach to mental health, I will suggest and order psychiatric medications as needed only by mutual agreement. I feel it is important that you understand a medication’s form of action, side effects, and benefits before you agree to take it. I may also suggest supplements that may help with your symptoms and promote overall better health.

I offer therapy with a focus on healing the connection between body and brain and replacing shame with self-compassion. This may come in the form of reframing beliefs, identifying emotions and feelings, practicing meditation, learning basic coping skills, or through active listening. I believe you are the expert in your life story and that you hold the answers to change and progress in your own heart. I am here to support you in unlocking those answers and embracing the change and growth you desire in your own timing.

My areas of special interest are: 1) women hormonal health and its impact on mental health throughout the life span, 2) learning self-compassion in place of shame, 3) healing from religious trauma, and 4) the impact of childhood attachment styles on adult relationships.