WHOA Behavioral Health offers medication management services to clients ages 4 and up for the full range of mental health diagnoses. The medication provider will meet with a client on average once a month and monitor the effectiveness of medication prescribed. We work as a team to ensure clients are taken care of in a full and holistic manner. Our prescribers have a wealth of knowledge and backgrounds to meet a client where they are in their healing journey.
Gerlene Sherard, PMHNP is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner for Outpatient Services
“I am a Licensed board certified psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I obtained my degree from Liberty University in August 2020. I am also Board Certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner and obtained my degree from Walden University in 2016 and hold certifications with ANCC and AANP governing body. Prior to my degree as a nurse practitioner, I practiced as Registered Nurse for 18 years in different arenas which include hospital setting, dialysis, inpatient outpatient setting, home health and psychiatry. My passion is patient care and providing care across the life span of children, adults, and families.
I feel honored and privileged to partner with a group of Mental health licensed professionals to Augment a holistic approach by collaborating and providing holistic care.”
Brian Hansen, PMHNP is a Nurse Practitioner for Outpatient Services
“I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). While completing my master’s at Wilkes University in Pennsylvania I really enjoyed learning about PTSD and OCD. Preceding the completion of my degree, I had the opportunity to be a registered nurse in the mental health field for five years. While working inpatient and outpatient I had the chance to see how the combination of therapy and medications can contribute to better long-term outcomes in all aspects of mental health. It’s essential to choose a provider who makes you feel safe, comfortable, and understood. I will strive to offer collaborative care by developing a care plan together with you in a safe manner. My hobbies include watching football and basketball, writing, and staying physically active with my family.”
Kaitlin Pond, PA is a Psychiatric Physician’s assistant for Outpatient Services
“I have been a Physician Assistant for 6 years. I graduated from Salus University in 2019. I have always had a passion for working with pediatric patients and have 4 years’ experience in general pediatrics. While working in general pediatrics, I realized not only the passion I have for mental health, but also how serious of a need there is for mental health providers. Since COVID, there has been a large decline in the population’s overall mental health, but I have seen firsthand how devastating it has been for my pediatric patients. That’s where I come in. It’s my goal to get your little (and big) ones to their best self. I favor a patient centered approach with heavy emphasis on keeping the parents/guardians involved whenever appropriate. I feel the more kids and teens feel comfortable talking with their loved ones, the safer our treatment plan will be. I will always have you and/or your kiddos best interests in mind when it comes to picking medications and treatment plans. There is no such thing as “bad kids.” They are struggling with something, misunderstood or just plain scared. I love watching the growth in my patients and building a long-term relationship with them as they grow. Our kids deserve all the resources that can be offered to support their mental health. I am so excited to be able to offer myself as one of these resources with WHOA Behavioral Health.”
Melissa Sharp, PMHNP is a Psychiatric Nurse Practioner for Outpatient Services
“I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I received my Masters of Science in Nursing from Walden University. Prior to obtaining my degree as a Nurse Practitioner, I practiced as a Registered Nurse for 12 years. My background in psychiatric nursing has provided me with the ability to practice compassion and empathy. I believe in a multi-faceted collaborative approach to patient-centered care. I provide a safe environment where my focus is on the whole person. Medication management is just one element of a treatment plan, but when combined with supportive therapy and valuable coping skills, success can be obtained.
Abigail Hebner, PMHNP is a Psychiatric Nurse Practioner for Outpatient Services
“I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and VCU graduate with five years of experience in inpatient and partial hospitalization mental health settings. My approach centers on individualized, collaborative care and developing holistic treatment plans tailored to each client’s goals and background. When I’m not supporting mental wellness, you’ll find me enjoying live music, cooking, and spending quality time with my family. Originally from Colorado, I’ve been discovering the scenic beauty of Virginia.”