Our most recent skilled and compassionate clinician up for a clinician spotlight is Irene Gan, DNP, PMHNP-BC. Although new to Rivia, Irene has been working as a nurse practitioner, as well as a nursing academic educator, for over a decade. We are thrilled to have Irene on our team, and even more thrilled that we were able to speak to her recently about her career up to this point.
Education & Background
Irene received a Masters of Science in Nursing from Villanova University, as well as a degree in family medicine from Northern Illinois University. She went onto receive a doctorate in Nursing and postdoctoral training in psychopharmacology and psychotherapeutic mental treatment at the University of Massachusetts Global.
“I started my nurse practitioner role in family practice,” she says. “I have been in the nursing profession, both in nursing clinical practice and nursing academic education, for many years. I believe these two professions help me tremendously to grow into my current role as a mental health provider. Helping and taking care of people who are mentally upset is a rewarding career for me.”
Specialty & Approach To Therapy
Irene specializes in depression, anxiety, mood disorders, and ADHD. “Most mental issues start with how their mind thinks and believes based on their personal past life experiences. Many people have suffered from mental illness for years, they don’t have any treatment. I would like to work with them to find a better way to help fit their needs to find a path to have a better life. Therapy will help people see it from a different perspective and find coping strategies that will help people improve their overall mental well-being.”
Her style of therapy is patient-centered and supported. “I would like to know their life stories, feelings, thoughts, etc. Everyone has a unique background, and knowing and understanding them well helps to find specific therapy.”
Joining the Rivia Mind Team
Irene expresses that what she enjoys most about joining Rivia Mind is the communication between different departments. “Teamwork makes a difference. As a newcomer, I feel I’m supported working here. I believe that patients can feel the same way.”
Advice to Those New to Therapy
When asked what advice she would give someone seeking mental healthcare for the first time, Irene’s answer was more of a warm invitation. “If you like to do something for your mental health, we are here to help. We can work together to make a treatment plan which is suitable for you.”
Self-Care For the Clinician
After a day of helping patients, Irene appreciates having time to herself every day. Downtime for her means time to “exercise, relax, meditate, or read a good book.”
When you need mental health support, Irene and our other skilled and compassionate clinicians at Rivia Mind are here to help you. Schedule an appointment with Irene today or select from our extensive list of providers based on your mental health needs.
