Hi, I’m Sana!
I’m a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC).
BACKGROUND & TRAINING
I earned my undergraduate degree in Biopsychology, Cognition, and Neuroscience from the University of Michigan, followed by a master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling and Behavioral Medicine from Boston University School of Medicine. I later completed my Master of Science in Nursing at the University of Texas at Austin, specializing as a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
This background allows me to approach treatment with an understanding of both the medical and psychological aspects of mental health, and provide individualized psychiatric care.
MY APPROACH TO CARE
I take time to understand not only symptoms, but also the experiences, relationships, and goals that shape each person’s life. My approach integrates evidence-based medication management with supportive therapy, education, and practical strategies when appropriate.
CULTURE, CONNECTION & IDENTITY
I recognize how deeply culture shapes our worldview, relationships, values, and life experiences. Regardless of your background, identities, and beliefs, I approach each person with curiosity, humility, and a desire to understand their unique perspective and worldview. Our experiences shape not only the challenges we face, but also the strengths we carry, and I strive to honor both in the care I provide.
I’ve seen how cultural stigma surrounding mental health can create barriers to seeking support, while cultural traditions, community, and connection can also be powerful sources of resilience and well-being. I bring a culturally-curious and humble approach to psychiatric care, recognizing that no two people experience their cultural identities in quite the same way. Rather than overlooking these influences or making assumptions, I try to understand how each person’s unique background shapes their experiences, challenges, and strengths. My goal is to provide thoughtful, individualized care that honors the whole person, including the cultural identities and experiences that make them who they are.
THE HEART BEHIND MY PRACTICE
The Sana Powell Psychiatry logo reflects the intertwining of my Christian faith and calling to psychiatric medicine. The Rod of Asclepius, with its serpent symbolizing healing and renewal, represents the art and science of medicine. The leaves symbolize the Holy Trinity (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit), while also reflecting the importance of nurturing well-being and each person’s capacity for growth.
Faith and mental health care have often been viewed as separate or conflicting, but I believe they can coexist beautifully. In fact, I have seen this to be true in my own life. I believe God is the ultimate healer and can work through medication, psychotherapy, and other forms of evidence-based care.
My faith also grounds my belief that every person is intentionally created by God and equally deserving of love, dignity, and respect. I recognize that some individuals, particularly those in the LGBTQ+ community and those who have experienced religious or cultural exclusion, have faced judgment in spaces where they should have felt supported. As an LGBTQ+ ally, I strive to provide LGBTQ+ affirming, culturally-responsive, and neurodiversity-affirming care that welcomes people of all races, ethnicities, faiths, identities, abilities, and backgrounds.
