Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Growing up as the daughter of a Mexican immigrant mother and an African American father, mental health was not something openly discussed in Alexa Westbrook’s, DNP, PMHNP, household or community. Her own experiences navigating those challenges, combined with a pivotal moment in college when she attended her first therapy sessions, opened her eyes to the impact that compassionate, accessible care can have. That realization set her on a path that led her to become the first in her family to attend college and ultimately earn a doctorate.
Education and background
Alexa earned her Doctorate in Nursing Practice as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, with a dissertation focused on the importance of treating the mind and body as one, an approach that continues to guide her practice today. She brings over five years of psychiatric experience, including managing a women’s crisis unit in Tarrant County and supporting care on the men’s unit, where she strengthened her ability to work with diverse populations in high-acuity environments.
Her clinical experience spans both inpatient and crisis settings, treating adolescents and adults with a wide range of conditions including anxiety, OCD, PTSD, depression, substance use disorders, schizophrenia, and complex trauma. That background gives her a strong foundation in managing acute mental health needs while maintaining the compassionate, patient-centered approach that defines her care.
Care philosophy
Alexa’s approach is guided by empathy, respect, and a commitment to treating the whole person. She takes a holistic view of care, looking at both mental and physical health to understand the full picture of what each patient is experiencing. She believes in meeting patients where they are, providing nonjudgmental care, and building trust through open communication. Her goal is to empower every patient to take an active role in their mental health and overall well-being.
Because her own journey into mental health was shaped by personal experience, Alexa understands firsthand what it means to feel unheard or to carry things on your own. She creates a space where patients feel safe, supported, and truly seen, not just as a patient, but as a whole person. She is also passionate about community education and mentorship, and has spoken at local schools about mental health awareness and her journey as a minority woman in healthcare.
Personal interests
Outside of the clinic, Alexa loves spending time with her husband and family. They are self-described foodies who enjoy exploring the DFW restaurant scene, from the Fort Worth Stockyards to the Bishop Arts District. She also enjoys reading, cooking, and traveling, with trips to Greece and other parts of Europe among her favorites. Her curiosity and appreciation for diverse perspectives, cultures, and cuisines are qualities her patients experience in the warm, open care she provides.
What to expect
In your first session with Alexa, you can expect a welcoming, supportive environment where you can share your story at your own pace. She’ll spend time getting to know you, discussing your current concerns, history, lifestyle, and treatment goals. Together, you’ll begin building a personalized plan that may include therapy, lifestyle changes, and medication if appropriate. The most important thing Alexa wants her patients to know is that she genuinely cares, and that you don’t have to carry things on your own anymore.