Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
With a background that spans a decade of emergency and trauma nursing, acute care practice, and psychiatry, Mercedes Despaigne, PMHNP, brings both medical and psychiatric training to every patient she sees. Above all, she wants the people she works with to know they do not have to navigate their mental health journey alone.
Education and Background
Mercedes spent about 10 years as a nurse in emergency and trauma care before becoming an Acute Care Nurse Practitioner. A travel assignment at a Level I trauma hospital in Fort Worth, Texas, brought her alongside patients in acute psychiatric crisis and showed her how great the need is for accessible, compassionate mental health care. That experience led her to train as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Today she is dual board-certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and an Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner.
From an early age, she has been fascinated by the brain and the connection between our thoughts, emotions, behavior, and overall health. She has also seen, through people close to her, the difference the right care and understanding can make.
Care Philosophy
Compassion, respect, honesty, and collaboration are at the center of how Mercedes practices. She believes care should be individualized, because no two patients share exactly the same experiences, circumstances, or goals, and she values evidence-based care and shared decision-making. Growing up in a Hispanic culture gave her firsthand awareness of the stigma that can surround seeking psychiatric care. That's why she works to create an environment where every patient feels respected, comfortable, and free to speak openly without fear of judgment.
Personal Interests
Mercedes loves Florida's warm weather and spends as much time outdoors as she can, walking and visiting parks. She's new to Lake Mary and looking forward to discovering local spots and getting to know the community. She stays active with yoga, Pilates, and strength training, values time with family and friends, and is a proud dog owner to her Maltipoo, Coco. She has also volunteered with Camillus House in Miami, which supports people experiencing homelessness.
What to Expect
In sessions with Mercedes, patients can expect someone who will listen, ask thoughtful questions, and genuinely care about understanding their concerns. She wants to know the person behind the symptoms: what you've been experiencing, how it affects your daily life, what has or has not worked in the past, and what you hope to achieve. From there, you build a treatment plan together that feels realistic and fits your needs.