-Barnes-NP-DNP-CNM-851085-circle_large__v1__.png)
About Dr. Mechela(Chay) Barnes
Focus areas
Anxiety
Bipolar Disorder
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
Attachment Disorder
Depression
Stress Management
Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Life Transition
Clientele seen
Young adults (18-24)
Individuals
Adults (25-64)
Seniors (65+)
Identity
Gender
FemaleLanguages spoken
English
Getting to know Dr. Mechela(Chay) Barnes
As a doctoral-prepared, dual board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM), I provide holistic, evidence-based psychiatric care for individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, mood disorders, grief, and major life transitions. My expertise also extends to reproductive psychiatry, where I support individuals navigating pregnancy, postpartum, infertility, perinatal loss, Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD), perimenopause, and other hormone-related mental health concerns.
If you're looking for thoughtful, personalized mental health care that goes beyond symptom management, this is the kind of support I provide. My goal is to help you better understand yourself, gain insight into the factors affecting your well-being, and develop practical tools that support lasting emotional health and resilience.
No matter where you are in your mental health journey, you don't have to navigate it alone. Whether you're seeking support for the first time or returning to continue the work, I would be honored to partner with you in building a healthier, more balanced, and fulfilling life.
What should a new client know about working with you?
DISCLAIMER: We are not able to accept Medicare or Medicaid plans at this time.
My path to psychiatry began while caring for patients as a certified nurse midwife. Supporting patients through pregnancy, birth, postpartum, and reproductive health gave me a deep appreciation for the connection between mental and physical health. Witnessing the profound impact that connection can have on individuals and families inspired me to expand my practice, allowing me to provide comprehensive psychiatric care to a broad range of people while continuing my special interest in reproductive mental health.
What is your typical process for working with clients?
I believe mental health care should meet you exactly where you are, with an approach that's collaborative, integrative, and evidence-based, and a focus on understanding the whole person, not just the symptoms. Together, we'll explore the factors influencing your mental health, including physical health, hormonal changes, sleep, nutrition, stress, relationships, and lifestyle, to develop a personalized treatment plan that may include medication management, psychotherapy, and lifestyle strategies for lasting well-being. My goal is to help you reconnect with yourself, build resilience, and create a foundation for lasting change.
Working with me, you can expect a warm, welcoming, and judgment-free environment where you feel safe, heard, respected, and supported. I strive to create a space where you can openly share your experiences, ask questions, and participate in decisions about your care. Sessions are thoughtful, approachable, and tailored to you, as I take the time to understand your unique experiences, values, and goals so you feel empowered to make meaningful, lasting progress.
Is this doctor in your insurance network?
Enter your insurance carrier and plan
choose insurance
In-network insurances
Aetna
BlueCross BlueShield
Cigna
UnitedHealthcare
Office location
Dr. Mechela(Chay) Barnes, NP, DNP, CNM also offers online video visits for patients
Education and background
Practice names
Education and training
- University of Washington, Doctor of Nursing Practice
NPI number
1265048987
How soon can I make an appointment with Dr. Mechela(Chay) Barnes?
Generally, Dr. Mechela(Chay) Barnes has appointments available on Zocdoc within 1 week. You can see Dr. Barnes's earliest availability on Zocdoc and make an appointment online.
Is Dr. Mechela(Chay) Barnes accepting new patients?
Dr. Mechela(Chay) Barnes generally accepts new patients on Zocdoc. You can see Dr. Barnes's earliest availability on Zocdoc and schedule an appointment online.
Does Dr. Mechela(Chay) Barnes accept my insurance?
Choose your insurance plan to verify if Dr. Barnes is in-network.
Can I make an appointment with Dr. Mechela(Chay) Barnes online?
Yes, you can make an appointment online with Dr. Barnes using Zocdoc. It’s simple, secure, and free.
What practice does Dr. Mechela(Chay) Barnes work with?
Dr. Mechela(Chay) Barnes works with SOL Mental Health - DMV.
Where is Dr. Mechela(Chay) Barnes's office located?
Dr. Mechela(Chay) Barnes has 4 office locations, including in Arlington, Vienna, and Alexandria, view full addresses on Dr. Barnes's profile.
What are common reasons for patients to see Dr. Mechela(Chay) Barnes?
Dr. Mechela(Chay) Barnes frequently sees patients for Depression, New Patient Visit, Psychiatry Consultation, Psychotherapy, and Sleep Problems. You can see other visit reasons for Dr. Mechela(Chay) Barnes on their profile.
What languages does Dr. Mechela(Chay) Barnes speak?
Dr. Mechela(Chay) Barnes speaks English.