
Arlene Garcia
she/herPsychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)
Self pay costs
Out-of-pocket session costs for clients who don’t have insurance or aren’t covered by their insurance for mental health services.
Hello, I’m Arlene Garcia, a dual board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-C) with over 38 years of nursing experience. I am also a retired U.S. Army Colonel with 28 years of military service. I work with children ages 14 and older, adolescents, and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, OCD, mood disorders, insomnia, and other psychiatric conditions. I offer psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and holistic mental health care through telehealth throughout Virginia, with in-person appointments available in Alexandria.
My approach to mental health care is compassionate, collaborative, and individualized. I combine evidence-based medication management, supportive psychotherapy, and holistic strategies to address your emotional, mental, and physical well-being. I specialize in anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, OCD, insomnia, and mood-related conditions.
Taking the first step toward better mental health can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate life’s challenges alone. Your feelings matter, your experiences are valid, and there is hope. My goal is to provide a safe, judgment-free space where you feel heard and supported. When you’re ready, I invite you to schedule an appointment.

"I believe everyone deserves to feel heard, understood, and supported, and I am committed to providing compassionate, personalized mental health care in a safe, nonjudgmental environment where we can work together toward healing, balance, and lasting well-being"
Why did you decide to become a counselor or psychiatric provider?
I chose to become a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner because I wanted to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those who often feel unheard, misunderstood, or judged. I believe mental health is just as important as physical health, and everyone deserves access to compassionate, respectful, and quality care. My military experience also deepened my understanding of the unique emotional challenges faced by service members, veterans, and their families. It strengthened my commitment to helping people navigate life's difficulties with dignity, understanding, and hope.
What types of clients do you work best with?
Any clients from teens to adults.
What's one thing you wish all clients knew about therapy, mental health, or the healing process?
I wish every client knew that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Healing is a journey, not a race, and progress looks different for everyone. You don't have to face life's challenges alone. With compassion, support, and the right treatment, positive change is possible. Mental health challenges do not define who you are, and you deserve to feel heard, valued, and supported every step of the way.
What can clients expect in their first session with you and in the early stages of therapy?
During our first session, you can expect a warm, welcoming, and judgmentfree environment where you feel comfortable sharing your concerns at your own pace. I will take time to listen, learn about your experiences, review your mental health history, and understand your goals for treatment. Together, we will develop a personalized care plan that may include medication management, supportive therapy, and practical coping strategies. In the early stages of treatment, my focus is on building trust, helping you better understand your symptoms, and supporting you as you take meaningful steps toward healing, emotional balance, and improved well-being. My goal is for you to leave each session feeling heard, respected, and hopeful about your progress.
What personal experiences or values inform your practice as a therapist/provider?
Growing up with humble beginnings in the rural South taught me the importance of compassion, humility, respect, and treating others with dignity. I firmly believe that all people are created equal and deserve to be heard, valued, and treated with kindness, regardless of their background or circumstances. These values guide my practice and inspire me to provide compassionate, inclusive, and judgment-free mental health care to everyone I serve.
How do you tailor therapy to meet each client’s unique needs?
I believe every individual is unique, and mental health care should never be onesize-fits-all. I take time to listen, understand each client's experiences, challenges, strengths, and goals, and develop a personalized treatment plan that may include supportive therapy, medication management, and practical coping strategies. My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and focused on helping each person achieve meaningful, lasting improvements in their wellbeing.
- Years in practice
- 2 years
- Graduating institute
- Grand Canyon University
- Graduating degree
- Master of Science in Nursing