When patients sit down with psychiatric nurse practitioner Durre Shahwar, they can expect to hear their struggles aren’t just symptoms to be fixed, but responses shaped by experiences that once felt overwhelming. Her work begins with the recognition that what feels heavy today often started as a way to survive. From there, she helps clients find new ways to heal, cope, and grow.
This week’s spotlight highlights her specialty, perspective on beginning treatment, and finding balance beyond her work.
Specialty & Approach To Therapy
Durre specializes in trauma-informed psychiatric treatment. “That means I approach mental health with the understanding that many symptoms are rooted in past experiences, often as adaptations to painful events,” she explains.
Instead of pathologizing, she focuses on uncovering the “why” behind what patients are feeling and experiencing.
“Therapy can help by creating a safe space to explore those patterns, develop new coping strategies, and build emotional resilience,” she says. Her framework integrates evidence-based modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Motivational Interviewing (MI), alongside thoughtful medication management when appropriate.
Her style is warm, collaborative, and individualized. “Whether working on symptom reduction, improving insight, or adjusting medications, I aim to meet patients where they are with flexibility and compassion.” She emphasizes building a therapeutic relationship that feels stable and empowering, particularly for those who may have experienced care that felt impersonal or rigid in the past.
Advice To Those Seeking Therapy
Durre acknowledges that the initial step into treatment often comes with uncertainty. “It’s completely normal to feel unsure or hesitant at first — most people do. You don’t need a full explanation of what’s going on to seek support. What matters most is your willingness to start.”
She reframes mental health support as an ongoing practice rather than a final destination. “Mental health care is about learning how to care for yourself in new, sustainable ways. Trust that showing up, even when it feels uncomfortable, is already a step toward healing.”
When choosing a clinician, she stresses the centrality of connection. “The therapeutic relationship is key. Look for someone who makes you feel heard, respected, and safe, not just someone with the right credentials.” She encourages reading bios, asking questions, and trusting instincts — and reminds patients that it’s okay to find another provider if something doesn’t seem like a fit. “The right provider will work with you, not at you, and will adapt care to your evolving needs.”
Finding Balance Through Self-Care
Outside of sessions, Durre practices what she encourages in her patients: balance, boundaries, self-compassion, and presence. “I find grounding through time with my family, as well as music, movement, or quiet reflection.”
She makes room for simple pauses, noting that unwinding doesn’t always mean doing something. “Sometimes, it’s just about existing in a peaceful space.”
With Durre and the rest of the team at Rivia Mind, care is centered on compassion, flexibility, and finding what truly supports you. Reach out to start exploring what feels possible and find a provider that suits your goals.
