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Our Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners

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Laura McCarthy, PMHNP-BC

 

Laura is a dedicated and compassionate board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) at Shore Clinical TMS & Wellness Center. She earned her Master's in Nursing from Monmouth University, and completed a Post-Master's Certificate in Psychiatric-Mental Health Nursing from Northern Kentucky University.

Laura's treatment philosophy encapsulates the understanding that mental health is not a fixed destination but an ongoing process. She believes, "Mental health is about how you drive, not where you are going," emphasizing the importance of meeting patients where they are in their mental health journey. Laura is dedicated to providing individuals with the tools they need to succeed in their social, personal, and professional lives.

Her extensive expertise spans a range of mental health areas, including depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, substance use disorders, ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, trauma and PTSD, gambling disorders, eating disorders, and grief and loss.

Guided by the principles of excellence and evidence-based psychiatric care, Laura is committed to building caring and non-judgmental relationships with her clients, recognizing that such relationships form the foundation for achieving therapeutic goals. Through her approach, Laura strives to empower individuals on their mental health journey, fostering a supportive environment for positive growth and well-being.

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Jinal Patel, PMHNP-BC

 

Meet Jinal Patel, a devoted advocate for mental health who believes in the transformative power of meeting people where they are. She is a highly-skilled board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) at Shore Clinical TMS & Wellness Center.

Jinal earned her Master’s degree in Family Nursing from South University, where she developed a strong foundation in patient-centered care and holistic mental health practices. To further her expertise, she obtained a Post-Master’s Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing at Rocky Mountain University. This advanced training has equipped her with specialized knowledge and skills to address a wide range of psychiatric conditions.

With a fervent commitment to breaking down the barriers of mental health stigma, Jinal is dedicated to providing exceptional, empathetic, and evidence-based care to patients of all ages and diversities.

By tailoring treatments to individual needs and circumstances, Jinal seeks to create a supportive environment that fosters healing and growth.

Firmly believing that a healthy mind, body, and soul are integral to the healing process, Jinal recognizes that understanding our limitations and knowing when to seek help are key components of the healing journey. With a compassionate and insightful approach, she endeavors to empower individuals to navigate their mental health, fostering an environment where healing begins with self-awareness and the courage to seek support.

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Mohammad Waqas, FNP-BC

 

Mohammad is a dedicated family nurse practitioner who obtained his bachelor's and master's degrees from Thomas Jefferson University, PA, in 2019. He is currently pursuing a master's in psychiatric mental health. With clinical expertise in anxiety, depression management, and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) therapy, Mohammad is passionate about establishing a collaborative partnership with his patients. His approach centers on integrating healthy lifestyles and medical management to support individuals in achieving their mental health goals.

Mohammad's treatment philosophy recognizes life's inherent challenges, understanding that sometimes individuals can navigate difficulties independently. However, when the challenges prove overwhelming, Mohammad steps in to handle the fort.

Guided by the principle that mental and physical wellness are interconnected, Mohammad aims to destigmatize mental health concerns. He strives to offer every client an opportunity to conquer and overcome their struggles, empowering them to lead fulfilling lives. Mohammad's compassionate and comprehensive approach reflects his commitment to addressing the mental and physical aspects of well-being.

 

Krista Basso PA

 

Krista is a very caring and compassionate clinician who is part of our interventional psychiatry team. She lives locally in Egg Harbor township, is very active in the local church community, loves to volunteer and teaches piano.

Treatment Philosophy: 
Foster holistic healing through personalized integrative care." Her approach to "holistic" care considers the full individual—physical, emotional, mental, social, and spiritual. She is committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based psychiatric care that supports the entire person, promoting a healthy mind, body, and spirit.

Guiding Principles:
Krista believes that every individual, regardless of age, race, gender identity, sexual orientation, or financial status, deserves respect and non-judgmental care. Guided by the philosophy that well-being is more than just symptom relief, her principles focus on creating individualized treatment plans grounded in scientific evidence. She prioritizes safety, understanding, and empowerment as each patient moves toward holistic healing.

Prior Experience:
Before joining Shore Clinical TMS & Wellness Center, Krista worked as a PA at a urology practice in Somers Point for six years.

Education:
Physician Assistant Degree: Bachelor of Science in Biology
Temple University, College of Science & Technology - Philadelphia, PA

 

About Psychiatric Physician Assistants

Psychiatric Physician Assistants (Psych PAs) are medical professionals specialized in mental health. They work closely with psychiatrists, psychologists, and other healthcare providers to diagnose, treat, and support patients with mental health disorders. Their role includes conducting patient assessments, prescribing medications, developing treatment plans, and providing psychotherapy and counseling services. Psych PAs combine medical knowledge with therapeutic skills to help patients manage a wide range of conditions, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. Their work often requires a compassionate approach, strong communication skills, and the ability to handle complex and sensitive patient needs.