Robin Joiner, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Education:

BSN - University of Florida /  MSN-PMHNP - Frontier Nursing University

At a Glance:

I’m a board-certified PMHNP (Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner) which means I’m a nurse practitioner with specialized training in psychiatry. As a PMHNP, I am licensed to evaluate, diagnose, and treat psychiatric disorders which includes the prescribing of psychotropic medications. Through the state of Florida, I have an additional certification that allows me to practice autonomously while under contract with a collaborating physician. I am privileged to be collaborating with Dr. Linda Lefler who has been practicing psychiatry for 30+ years (and is a UF alum!). 

I’m coming to Arise Wellness from the University of Florida’s adult outpatient psychiatric practice where I had a busy private clinic and also participated in a weekly clinic for patients with severe or treatment-resistant psychiatric disorders. 

Why did you become a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner? 

I’ve always known I wanted to be in a helping profession but the focus of this ambition became clear through a handful of transformative personal and professional moments. I have experienced and witnessed the devastating impacts of untreated mental illness and the cruelty of shame-based mental health care. Becoming a psychiatric nurse practitioner was a way for me to pursue a vision of holistic, compassionate, and effective mental health services.

As a nurse, I value advocacy, patience, and education. As a practitioner, I emphasize effective, evidence-based, and patient-centered care. The combination of these perspectives creates a unique clinical experience that many patients find especially comforting when receiving mental health care.  

What can a client expect to experience in session with you? 

When working with new patients, my initial goal is to jointly establish safety so that we can cultivate a relationship rooted in trust and mutual respect. From there, the priority is to ensure accurate diagnosis through a thorough history and assessment. We will establish what your specific goals are and then together, develop a care plan that is compassionate, efficient, practical, and individualized. The care plan often includes medication but I also will encourage non-pharmacological interventions whenever appropriate.  

If you could work with on celebrity, who would it be?

Cher

How do you spend your free time? 

With my two boys and husband. We spend as much time as we can on the water as a family. It’s our “church” on Sunday. Some of my hobbies are reading, writing, painting, running, and traveling. 

What's your favorite quirk about yourself? 

I’m kinda noisy. I often think “out loud” and it’s not uncommon for me to be whistling or singing. I also made lots and lots of lists. 

What does social justice mean to you? 

Briefly, it means equity gained through respect, validation, and accountability. It’s about holding compassion for others and cultivating curiosity rather than fear. 

How do you believe change happens?

I believe positive change occurs through acts of bravery. This can take the form of kindness, self-acceptance, creative works, leadership, caregiving, or even despair. Letting go of the fear of shame and judgment and trusting that your vulnerability will ultimately lead to a more genuine life.