Dr. Diana Scruggs, DNP
Doctor of Nursing Practice
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
PATIENT AGE GROUP:
Comprehensive Care for All Ages
EXPERIENCE:
Nine Years
CORE SKILLS:
Adult & Pediatric Psychiatry
Addiction Services & Medication Assisted Treatment
Maternal Mental Health
COMMUNICATION:
Bilingual (Spanish/English)
Biography
Dr. Diana Scruggs is a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She earned her doctorate from Frontier Nursing University (FNU), where her DNP quality improvement project focused on patient-centered treatment and education for individuals with a history of substance use disorders. Her doctoral work reflects her commitment to advancing evidence-based care, improving patient engagement, and breaking the stigma surrounding mental illness.
Dr. Scruggs began her nursing career after completing her Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Chamberlain University. She went on to earn her Master of Science in Nursing with a specialization in Psychiatric Mental Health, preparing her to serve patients across the lifespan. Her professional experience spans special needs pediatrics, maternal health, primary care, and psychiatric mental health, giving her a well-rounded foundation to deliver holistic, patient-centered treatment.
She previously served at the Developing Brain Research Laboratory at Children’s National Medical Center in Washington, D.C., where she gained valuable insights into brain health, neurodevelopment, and the impact of early-life experiences on mental wellness. Today, she provides comprehensive psychiatric care for a wide range of conditions in both inpatient and outpatient settings, with a focus on personalized, compassionate, and stigma-free treatment.
Outside of her professional work, Dr. Scruggs finds fulfillment as a dedicated wife and mother. She has supported new mothers through La Leche League and remains actively involved in MomCo (formerly MOPS, Mothers of Preschoolers), reflecting her passion for maternal mental health, mentorship, and community support.
Personal Experience
I am passionate about breaking the stigma surrounding mental illness. My goal is to create a safe, welcoming space where every patient feels heard, respected, and understood. I work to remove the barriers that often prevent individuals from seeking the help they need by creating an environment of empathy and openness.
Each person’s treatment journey is unique, and I am committed to providing personalized support that honors their experiences and perspectives. Through active listening, evidence-based care, and compassion, I empower patients to embrace their mental health confidently and without fear of judgment. Together, we can work toward healing, resilience, and growth.