

Michael M. Zavala, DNP, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC is a Texas and New Mexico based Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner focused on holistic integrative psychiatry.
I help adults experiencing obesity, anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, and burnout/moral injury rediscover their sense of excitement and engagement with work, loved ones, and life by offering a specialized approach for those motivated to uncover the root cause of their symptoms, with medication as an option, NOT the only option.
Therapy is a journey that is not always the easiest to embark upon and just showing up is half the battle. As a therapist it’s my job to gently guide you through this process. Developing a therapeutic relationship is the cornerstone of therapy. In the first few appointments, I will get to know you and the issues that you are facing. From there we will work together on your goals. I am laid back, and utilize a variety of treatment approaches depending on your needs. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in the State of Texas. I received my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Baylor University and my Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University. I have experience treating adults, young adults, adolescents, and families in various settings. I have worked in hospitals and the criminal justice system. I utilize psychodynamic and cognitive behavioral approaches in working with my clients. I am EMDR trained and enjoy working with trauma and anxiety. I enjoy coffee, college sports, my dogs, travel, and collecting mechanical watches.
I believe that struggles with mental health can make us feel like we’re on the outside looking in — different, misunderstood, or even broken.
Many of the people I work with identify as the “black sheep” in their families or communities — thoughtful, self-aware, but carrying more than they should have to on their own.
My goal is to help you shift how you see those experiences. What feels like a weakness or flaw often has the potential to become a source of strength, insight, and growth.
I specialize in working with people who feel like they don’t quite fit in.


Headway makes it easy to find support for your mental health — from finding the right provider, to understanding costs, to scheduling with ease.