Ariana Whetsell is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who brings genuine care, cultural awareness, and a personalized approach to mental healthcare. Originally from West Virginia, Ariana relocated to Colorado in 2019 and now serves patients at Serenity’s Superior clinic while residing in Loveland with her family.

Education and Background

Ariana’s path into mental healthcare was shaped by both her roots and her personal experiences. Growing up in rural West Virginia, she witnessed firsthand the scarcity of mental health resources in underserved communities. With mental health challenges affecting her own family, she developed an early interest in psychiatry and a deep understanding of how vital accessible care can be

Ariana earned her Associate Degree in Nursing from a community college in West Virginia before completing her Bachelor of Science in Nursing at West Virginia University, where she also pursued a minor in sociology. She went on to earn her Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University, with a specialization in psychiatric mental health. Her sociology background deepened her interest in diversity and cultural understanding, shaping how she would later approach individualized patient care.

During her time as a floor nurse, Ariana worked at the VA, where she saw the significant gaps in mental health resources available to veterans. This experience became a defining moment in her career, solidifying her commitment to filling those gaps and supporting those who need care most.

Care Philosophy

Ariana’s approach centers on creating a safe space where patients feel free to express themselves without judgment. She believes that genuine conversation and collaboration are the foundations of effective treatment. Rather than dictating a plan, Ariana works alongside her patients to develop care strategies they feel comfortable with and invested in.

Individualized care is at the heart of everything Ariana does. She understands that medications affect everyone differently based on numerous factors, from biology to life circumstances to cultural background. She takes the time to consider each patient’s unique history, past experiences, and personal values when shaping their mental health journey.

Ariana practices and prescribes as if each patient were a family member or close friend. For her, treatment is always about more than just prescribing medication. It’s about understanding side effects, considering how medications will impact daily life, and exploring all available options, including innovative treatments like TMS. She believes that when patients have a positive outlook about their treatment plan and truly believe in it, that mindset becomes a catalyst for healing.

Personal Interests

Outside the clinic, Ariana is a devoted mother to two young sons. The family also shares their home with three dogs, one cat, and two hermit crabs. Ariana is passionate about creative expression and community connection. She is a dedicated junk journaling enthusiast and runs a small business that specializes in gift curating and laser engraving. She also hosts crafting and junk journaling classes for women in the Loveland community, creating safe spaces where women can step away from their roles as mothers, wives, and providers to simply be themselves.

When patients at the Superior clinic have time between TMS appointments, Ariana often recommends exploring the nearby shopping center or checking out the excellent thrifting opportunities in nearby Boulder.

What to Expect

Ariana’s greatest hope is that patients recognize the genuine nature of her care. She listens actively, addresses concerns thoughtfully, and guides patients toward decisions that align with their values and comfort levels. Whether discussing medication management or the benefits of TMS therapy, Ariana ensures patients understand not just what she’s recommending, but why it matters and how it can help.

In every session, Ariana creates an environment where honest conversation flows freely, individuality is valued, and collaborative partnership drives the path forward. Her patients can expect to be heard, respected, and treated as the unique individuals they are.