My name is Rachel Townsend. I completed my undergraduate degree and training in Arizona. I worked as an LPN for 4 years in memory care and hospice. I worked as an Assistant Director of Nursing at a Memory Care Facility prior to returning to school. I completed my RN program in 2017 and then relocated to Maryland. I worked in the Psychiatric ED at Johns Hopkins Hospital (main campus) for 5 years. During this time I completed my Master's degree at Eastern Kentucky University. The majority of my clinical experience was with JHH-trained NPs and Psychiatrists. 

While working at JHH I saw how poorly people with mental health conditions were treated. There were limited resources for them to be successful when leaving the ED or completing their inpatient stay. There was a shortage of providers leading to extended wait periods for outpatient follow up which led to relapse and often return visits to the hospital. It was discouraging to patients and staff. This is why I decided to become a provider. 

Unfortunately, mental health remains stigmatized. I provide a safe and judgment-free zone to make my patients feel heard and understood. I usually can get at least one smile and/or laugh out of them before they leave their appointment. I have a soft spot for dementia/Alzheimers and psychotic disorder patients. 

I treat adults 18y+ with anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar d/o, schizophrenia, psychosis, substance and alcohol use disorder, ADHD, personality disorders, and insomnia.