Telepsychiatry across Oregon, coordinated with your in-house therapist.
April Cathaway,
PMHNP
Pronouns: she/her
Welcome-I’m glad you’re here. I’m a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who believes that feeling understood and supported is the foundation of healing. I strive to meet each person with compassion, respect, and genuine care, creating a space where you can feel safe, heard, and valued.
I bring 24 years of experience as a Registered Nurse, with a diverse background including case management, quality improvement, adolescent/adult/geriatric psychiatry, and maternal-child health. This experience has shaped my holistic approach, allowing me to consider the whole person-mind, body, and life experiences-rather than symptoms alone.
I work with adolescents, adults, and seniors, including individuals navigating addiction and substance use challenges. I believe healing is a collaborative journey, and I work closely with clients to develop manageable, individualized plans that feel realistic, supportive, and aligned with their personal goals. My hope is that each client feels gently supported, empowered, and never alone as we work together toward improved balance, clarity and well-being.
Pronouns: she/her
My approach in mental health care is holistic, being well aware of how physical and mental health problems influence each other; I may order lab work to check on potential deficiencies or hormonal imbalances, or order genetic tests, to better understand the source of your ailment and address it, rather than just treat symptoms. I also stay up-to-date with research in psychiatry, as well as general medicine.
I offer efficient results, because I do not apply the “one size fits all” methodology, nor do I automatically apply the algorithms of care. You will be listened to, and receive high quality care in an individualized manner, as you deserve.
I treat population age 16 and up. I will work in close collaboration with you, as part of the decision-making process. I am not a fan of poly-pharmacy. You will have my consistent support in regaining well being, by making a treatment plan together, one that is clear to you, and you feel comfortable following. Our sessions will be relaxed and pleasant.
Simona Borza, PMHNP
FAQs
What is a PMHNP?
A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) is an advanced nurse with graduate training in mental health. PMHNPs assess mental health, prescribe and manage psychiatric meds, and offer ongoing care that sometimes includes counseling.
Can I do therapy and medication management at the same time?
Absolutely. Research shows that combining therapy with medication is often the most effective approach, especially for anxiety, depression, PTSD, and ADHD. At Wholehearted Counseling, our PMHNPs and therapists work under the same roof. With your permission, they can collaborate directly so your care feels connected rather than fragmented. That said, having a therapist here isn't required to see one of our PMHNPs.
How long does it take for psychiatric medication to work?
It depends on the medication. Some medications, especially those for anxiety or sleep, can offer relief within days. Others, like most antidepressants, typically take four to six weeks to reach full effect. Your PMHNP will set clear expectations during your first appointment and check in regularly to track how you're responding. If something isn't working, we adjust. You won't be left wondering.