MSN, APRN, FNP-BC, AAHIVS , Doctoral (Current)
Shauna Barnes, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC, AAHIVS is currently in her second year in the Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing Science (PhD) program at Florida State University in Tallahassee, Florida. Barnes’ research interest is Rural African American men and underdiagnosed depression and/or anxiety. She is interested in identifying the barriers and facilitators of rural African American men's utilization of mental health services. This research interest is a continuation of her ongoing commitment to holistic primary care for populations with unmet needs, integrating both mental health and substance misuse disorder treatment into primary care settings.
As a board-certified family nurse practitioner, Barnes has provided care to those living in rural areas, inpatient psychiatric and substance disorders treatment facilities, and clinics serving individuals living with HIV. She is a strong advocate for the integration of behavioral health within the primary care setting for the overall improvement of well-being. She has over 20 years of experience in the mental health and substance misuse disorder field, working in various roles. One of her most recent accomplishments was a collaboration process change initiative that placed mental health clinicians directly within an HIV clinic to improve timely access to behavioral health support for patients.
Barnes' doctoral studies continue to advance her advocacy power for populations with unmet needs and advancing mental health research knowledge. While pursuing her PhD and working full-time as a nurse practitioner, she also precepts nursing students instilling in them the importance of mental health care within a non-judgmental environment.
Barnes remains steadfast in her commitment to holistic, person-centered care, recognizing the essential connection between a healthy mind and a healthy body.