Dionna McFerrin, PMHNP

I am a dual-board-certified Psychiatric and Adult Nurse Practitioner with 16 years of telepsychiatry experience and a 30-year nursing career focused on holistic behavioral health and specialized care. I earned my MSN from the University of Michigan and have supported adults and geriatric patients. I have also enjoyed teaching and mentoring future healthcare professionals.

I strive to create a warm, safe, and welcoming space where you feel heard, respected, and never judged. I value open communication and teamwork, taking a holistic, trauma-informed approach that considers your whole well-being and life story. I provide inclusive, compassionate care for people from all backgrounds.

We begin with a comprehensive video visit to discuss your history, concerns, and goals. Together, we create a personalized, evidence-based plan that may include medication management and approaches that fit your lifestyle and preferences.

I have over 20 years in healthcare, beginning as a caregiver, CNA, LPN, and RN before becoming an FNP and later a PMHNP. I earned my ADN from Gogebic Community College, BSN and MSN/FNP from Herzing University, and post-master’s PMHNP Certificate from the University of Cincinnati. I have worked in home health, primary care, urgent care/ER, and outpatient psychiatry, and have served as Psychiatric Director for HOPS and Clinical Adjunct Faculty for Concordia University.

I believe rapport is essential to high-quality care. I strive to create a warm, caring environment where you feel comfortable, heard, and supported. I value open communication and take time to learn your unique story.

I begin with a thorough review of your medical and psychiatric history, then work with you to identify your goals and create an individualized plan. I view treatment as a partnership and want you to feel heard and involved. I use supportive psychotherapy, education, and resources such as books or workbooks, and encourage therapy when helpful. I explain treatment options and view medication as one “tool in the toolbox” while working toward the root of concerns and empowering you to heal and reach your goals.

I am a dual board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner with more than 23 years of registered nursing experience and 18+ years as a nurse practitioner. My background spans primary and behavioral healthcare, academia, publishing, and professional presentations. I completed my nursing education at Milwaukee Area Technical College and Alverno College and my NP education at Concordia University Wisconsin.

I believe effective mental healthcare begins with listening. I strive to create a welcoming, respectful, and nonjudgmental environment. I take a whole-person, collaborative approach that considers your physical health, emotional well-being, lifestyle, relationships, and goals. I value open communication, education, trust, and shared decision-making.

I begin with a comprehensive assessment of your concerns, symptoms, medical and psychiatric history, medications, life circumstances, and goals. Together, we create an individualized treatment plan. When medication is appropriate, I discuss benefits, risks, side effects, alternatives, and your preferences. Follow-ups focus on progress, effectiveness, tolerability, and needed adjustments to support meaningful improvement in well-being, functioning, relationships, and quality of life.