Amy Ezhaya

Amy Ezhaya is a Doctorly prepared Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in outpatient mental health care, including the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mood, anxiety, trauma-related, and neurodevelopmental disorders across the lifespan. She currently practices within the Veterans Health Administration, where she provides evidence-based psychiatric care to a diverse patient population.

Dr. Ezhaya serves as a contributing faculty member at Walden University, where she supports graduate nursing students in developing clinical reasoning, diagnostic accuracy, and safe prescribing practices in psychiatric care. Her teaching focuses on advanced practice psychiatric nursing, with an emphasis on integrating neuroscience, psychopharmacology, and patient-centered care.

In clinical and academic practice since 2018, Dr. Ezhaya brings a practical, real-world perspective to her teaching. Her primary areas of interest include brain-based approaches to mental health, early childhood development, and the impact of attachment and environment on emotional and behavioral regulation. She is particularly interested in translating complex neurobiological concepts into actionable strategies for both clinicians and families.

Dr. Ezhaya’s professional background includes work in high-demand clinical settings, where she has demonstrated strong leadership, adaptability, and commitment to improving patient outcomes. Her work reflects a dedication to bridging the gap between research and practice, empowering both patients and future clinicians through education, structure, and evidence-based care.

Education

DNP, University of San Diego

MSN, Johns Hopkins School of Nursing

MEd, Alliant International University

Publications

Ezhaya, A. Talking with Horses: Equine Assisted Activities to Promote Social Engagement in Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder.

Presentations

Ezhaya, A. (2024). Of Sound Mind the Benefits of Therapeutic Listening in Inpatient Psychiatry.