Book a therapist or psychiatrist in Palo Alto, CA covered by Aetna

Georgia Barnes, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC

I am a dual board-certified Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) with more than 25 years of clinical experience and board certifications as both a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I provide compassionate, evidence-based mental health care for adolescents and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, mood disorders, and other psychiatric conditions through personalized medication management and supportive psychotherapy.

I believe meaningful mental health care begins with trust, respect, and collaboration. My approach is patient-centered, recognizing that every individual's experiences, strengths, and goals are unique. I work closely with each client to develop a personalized treatment plan that promotes emotional wellness, resilience, and long-term recovery.

My priority is to create a safe, welcoming, and nonjudgmental environment where you feel heard, valued, and empowered to participate in your care. Together, we focus not only on reducing symptoms but also on building healthy coping strategies, restoring balance, and improving overall quality of life. Whether you're facing anxiety, depression, trauma, mood disorders, ADHD, or co-occurring substance use concerns, I am committed to providing thoughtful, evidence-based care that supports your journey toward lasting wellness.

Weather you have been considering therapy, worked with therapy in the past or loved ones are suggesting reaching out-welcome to my practice. I work with individuals, couples and families in the assessment and treatment of anxiety, depression, relationship issues, career issues, job dissatisfaction. My specialty areas included the assessment and treatment of Perinatal and Postpartum Depression/Anxiety and Grief and Loss.

I feel my purpose is to help people cope with the trauma of being human in these uncertain times. I am innately in tune with the language of emotion. I have an inherent understanding of people’s communication patterns and a gentle, approachable, non-threatening presence that provides people with a safe space to express themselves.

I became a therapist because there were so many points in my life that I needed a compassionate person to hear my story, to ease the constant ache of loneliness that weighed on my heart. I want to be that for others.

During my 20+ years as an educator, I witnessed closely how early childhood experiences impact all areas of development and brain architecture. I taught kindergarten, first grade, special education (children and adults) and art during this phase of my career. I created social and emotional growth programs for children on the autism spectrum. I am currently developing an art curriculum for teachers and parents that encapsulates how I use art to help people cope with trauma, anxiety, ADHD and dyslexia, that also provides engaging and non-messy ways to experience creativity and stimulate the right brain. I am also creating an art-based workbook for those healing from trauma.

I went back to school in 2020 for my masters in Marriage and Family therapy. I am a newly licensed LMFT. This process has been profound. I have worked with people from all walks of life and learned from each person who crossed my path. I accept that this is a constant learning process which inspires me. I am not sure my curiosity can be satiated.

I am a published author, and poet at heart. Drawing soothes my soul and music and dance bring tears to my eyes. I have a dry and quirky sense of humor. I will be happy to incorporate creativity into your sessions if you are receptive.

I look forward to the opportunity to connect.

Growing up near a national park, I am consistently reminded of and influenced by the importance of nature on our physical, mental, and emotional health in my mental health practice. As an LMFT, I've worked with a variety of populations, most of whom experienced major trauma or complex trauma, and aid them in reconnecting to their sense of self and safety. I received my MS from California Lutheran University with a specialization in trauma and BA from CSU Chico. I have been licensed for 4 years and have provided therapy for the last 8 years including an associate and traineeship.

I have over 20 years of experience helping clients explore and navigate challenges related to relationships, anxiety, depression, trauma, and addiction. My approach is client-centered, meaning therapy is tailored to each individual’s unique needs and goals. I integrate techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, Narrative Therapy, and Attachment Theory, with particular attention to how early life experiences shape our relationships with ourselves and others.

Living with anxiety, depression, or trauma can create deep feelings of isolation and hopelessness. Relationship struggles and low self-esteem often fuel fear, self-doubt, and emotional overwhelm. Breaking cycles of overthinking, managing intense emotions, and facing uncomfortable people or situations can feel exhausting. When emotions feel unstable and life feels heavy, recognizing the need for change is an important first step. While change can be intimidating, having a supportive therapist can make the process feel more manageable and less isolating.

I genuinely care about my clients and strive to meet them with empathy, compassion, and respect. I have helped many individuals navigate difficult life circumstances by increasing self-awareness, strengthening emotional regulation, and reflecting on personal experiences. Together, we work to better understand the patterns that may be keeping you feeling stuck or distressed.

Finding the right therapist can feel overwhelming. Feeling safe and supported is essential for healing and growth. I provide a nonjudgmental, supportive space where you can speak openly and work toward meaningful change at your own pace.