Meet Your Provider
Sara Gena Israel, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC
Whole-Person Psychiatric Care for Women
I provide thoughtful, evidence-based psychiatric care with an approach that considers the full picture, including nutrition patterns, stress, sleep, hormones, daily routines, and health habits.
I believe compassionate, attentive care should make room for the person behind the symptoms.
A Personal Welcome
Hi, I'm Sara.
In this short video, I share who I am, what shaped my approach, and what you can expect from care that looks at the full picture, not just symptoms.
My Journey
A foundation of care. A continuing evolution.
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1990s–2000s
Early Nursing Career
My early nursing career was in children’s hospitals in Washington, D.C., Phoenix, Los Angeles, and Florida, where I worked in a variety of pediatric clinical settings.
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2010s
Advanced Education
Completed my Master of Science in Nursing with a focus on public health, strengthening my interest in prevention, access, and the broader factors that influence health.
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2019
PMHNP-BC
Completed post-master’s psychiatric-mental health training and became board certified as a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
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2020
Balanced Mind Founded
Founded Balanced Mind Mental Health to provide a more personal, thoughtful, and unhurried approach to psychiatric care.
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2024 to Present
Narrowed Focus
Narrowed my focus toward women’s mental health and lifestyle psychiatry while pursuing a DNP in Lifestyle Medicine, expected 2027.
Why I Founded Balanced Mind Mental Health
My nursing career began in children’s hospitals, where I cared for patients and families in neurology and neurosurgery, emergency care, intensive care, and as a housewide float nurse. Those experiences showed me how deeply emotional well-being can affect daily life, not only for the individual but also for the people around them.
Over time, I became increasingly drawn to mental health care and to the importance of understanding the person behind the symptoms. I founded Balanced Mind Mental Health in 2020 because I wanted to create a setting where care could feel more personal, attentive, and unhurried while offering an alternative to the traditional psychiatric experience.
I wanted care to be collaborative, with space to listen closely, consider the full picture, and develop treatment that makes sense for real life.
My Philosophy of Care
You are more than a diagnosis
Your care should reflect your full story, what matters to you, and what is happening in your life.
Care is personal
There is no one-size-fits-all plan. Care should be tailored to your needs, priorities, and goals.
Healing is collaborative
I believe in shared decision-making, clear communication, and a treatment relationship built on mutual respect.
Small, meaningful changes add up
Sustainable progress often begins with practical steps that fit into real life.
Why the Olive Branch?
The olive tree has long held personal and spiritual meaning for me, representing peace, renewal, and resilience. It reflects the kind of growth I hope for every person who comes to Balanced Mind: steady, meaningful, and able to endure through changing seasons.
Education & Credentials
- Bachelor’s Degree in Health Services AdministrationFlorida International University
- Bachelor of Science in NursingHoward University
- Master of Science in NursingGrand Canyon University
- Post-Master’s Certificate, Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse PractitionerFlorida Atlantic University
- PMHNP-BCAmerican Nurses Credentialing Center
- Doctor of Nursing Practice, Lifestyle MedicineFlorida State University
Expected 2027
Ready to Take the Next Step?
I would be honored to support you on your journey toward greater balance and well-being.
