Dr. Shawn A. Dwight, DNP, PMHNP-BC
Accepting New Patients
In Network with Medicaid and Aetna
As a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I bring more than 15 years of healthcare experience dedicated to improving the lives of individuals across diverse clinical settings. Throughout my career, I have provided comprehensive mental health care to patients experiencing a wide range of psychiatric conditions, including anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, substance use disorders, and dementia. My approach to care is rooted in compassion, respect, and evidence-based practice. I believe that effective treatment begins with building meaningful therapeutic relationships, actively listening to each patient’s unique story, and creating individualized treatment plans that align with their personal goals and values. I am committed to providing holistic care that addresses the emotional, psychological, social, and environmental factors that influence overall well-being.
I strive to create a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment where patients feel empowered to take an active role in their mental health journey. Through collaboration, education, and advocacy, my goal is to help individuals achieve lasting wellness, resilience, and an improved quality of life.
Driven by a passion for clinical excellence and lifelong learning, I remain dedicated to delivering accessible, high-quality mental health care that makes a meaningful difference in the lives of those I serve.
Dr. Denisha Cuffee, DNP, FNP-BC, NP-C, PMHNP-BC, PMHNP-C
Not Currently Accepting New Patients
In Network with Medicaid, BCBS, Aetna, Cigna, Medicare and UHC
Dr. Denisha Cuffee is a nurse practitioner at Mind and Soul TeleWellness, with board certifications in Psychiatric Mental-Health Nurse Practitioner (across the lifespan) and Family Nurse Practitioner. She has a Doctorate of Nursing Practice which was obtained from University of Maryland, Baltimore campus. She also proudly served in the United States Air Force, foreign and domestic. She has twenty plus years in the nursing profession and over five years as a nurse practitioner. She has a variety of professional experience which includes: treating patients with a variety of mental health disorders in the inpatient and outpatient setting, providing care for oncology patients, managing individuals with HIV, and treating patients with allergy and asthma. Her desire to become Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner was fueled by a profound commitment to enhancing a patients overall mental health and not just physical. She is focused on delivering optimal care to her patients by utilizing therapeutic communication, evidence-based practice, patient centered care, and advocating for her patients. She is proudly here to help you navigate your journey and become the best version of yourself.
Gretchen Ryle, PMHNP
Accepting New Patients
In Network with Medicaid, Medicare, Cigna, Aetna, and Blue Cross Blue Shield
Gretchen is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC), with 10+ years of experience focused on treating children, adolescents, and adults. Gretchen possesses strong clinical skills enhanced by natural ability to build rapport with patients and families. She follows evidence-based guidelines blended with clinical experience, personal observation, and intuition. As a PMHNP, Gretchen’s role is multifaceted, including educator, mental health advocate, and therapist.
As clinical faculty, Gretchen values interdisciplinary education and inter-professional collaboration for a whole person, patient centered approach to health and healthcare.
Gretchen is always advocating for innovations in healthcare and has special interests in the integration of behavioral medicine, trauma informed care, suicide prevention, and addressing relationship health.
Education and Training
- ASN., 2007, Wallace Community College
- BSN., 2008, Auburn University at Montgomery
- MSN., 2013, University of Alabama at Birmingham Certifications
- ANCC adult psychiatric and mental health clinical nurse specialist, 2008
- Board Certified Nurse Practitioner in Psychiatry, 2013 – 2024
- Licensed Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, 2013
- Licensed Registered Nurse, 2007
Memberships and Associations
- American Psychiatric Nurses Association
Sharon Pugh, PA-C
Physician Assistant
Not Currently Accepting New Patients
In Network with Aetna, BCBS, and Medicaid
My name is Sharon Pugh and I have been a board-certified Physician Assistant for over 24 years. I believe one of the most important ways a medical clinician can support others with mental health challenges is by first creating a trusting and comfortable connection with patients. Healing begins with patients feeling welcome, safe, and heard. Physical and mental health are interconnected, and both are impacted by self-care and social determinants of health, such as your social and home life, relationships and occupation. I will explore all of these facets in your life with you so that you are provided with the best, individualized therapeutic recommendations to guide you on your path to wellness.
My career experience includes outpatient psychiatry, forensic inpatient psychiatry, mental health research, internal medicine and emergency medicine. I was also an associate professor with the UMB PA program. In addition to my master’s degree in PA Studies, I have a master’s degree in Health and Wellness Coaching and a post-graduate certificate in Nutrition and Integrative Health.