What is your philosophy on medication management?

I see medication as one tool in a larger toolkit for wellness. My approach is collaborative; we will discuss the potential benefits and side effects of any medication, and I will always work with you to find the most effective solution that aligns with your goals and comfort level.

You have experience in inpatient care. How does that help in an outpatient setting?

My years in hospitals have given me extensive experience with complex and severe mental health conditions. This means I am well-equipped to provide thoughtful, comprehensive care in our outpatient sessions and can recognize when a situation needs more intensive support, ensuring you always receive the right level of care.

I'm nervous about starting medication. What can I expect?

Your feelings are completely valid, and we will move at a pace that feels right for you. I take the time to explain everything clearly, answer all your questions, and closely monitor how you're responding. My focus is on your safety and comfort throughout the entire process.

Do you coordinate care with other providers?

Yes, absolutely. I believe the best care is coordinated care. With your permission, I am happy to collaborate with your therapist, primary care doctor, or any other clinicians to ensure we are all working together seamlessly toward your wellness.

Merlin Thomas – Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMH

Meet Merlin Thomas, a board-certified PMHNP in Plano with over 13 years of experience in mood disorders, trauma, and medication management.

Meet Merlin Thomas, your expert Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Thank you for considering me for your care. I specialize in medication management and therapy for a range of mental health concerns. I look forward to helping you find practical solutions and a greater sense of control.

Degrees

B.S. from Chamberlain College of Nursing & M.S. from Walden University

Experience

+13 Years

Insurance Accepted

Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas, Cigna, Optum, Evernorth, & Magellan Healthcare

A Message From Merlin

‍My mission is to provide every patient with compassionate, high-quality mental health treatment. As a board-certified PMHNP with over 13 years of experience, I am dedicated to creating a stigma-free environment where you feel supported and understood. I believe in a collaborative approach where your voice is essential, and I specialize in helping adults and adolescents in the Plano area navigate mood disorders, trauma, and life's challenges to find stability and strength.

My Approach to Your Care

‍I focus on creating an individualized plan of care that values your active involvement. Using psychiatric assessment, medication management, and brief psychotherapeutic interventions, I draw upon evidence-based practices to address your specific needs. My background in child and adult inpatient care, including my experience as a Nurse Manager, has provided me with a deep understanding of complex mental health conditions. I am also happy to collaborate with your other healthcare providers to ensure coordinated, comprehensive care.

My Credentials & Expertise:

Education: Master of Science in Nursing, Walden University
Certification: Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC)
Experience: Over 13 years in psychiatric nursing, including inpatient care and nurse management.
Specialties: Mood Disorders, Trauma, Psychotic Disorders, Substance Abuse, Chronic Mental Illness

A Personal Note

‍Patients describe me as easy to talk with, pleasant, and dedicated to tailoring solutions that work for their lives. My goal is for you to leave our sessions feeling heard and equipped with practical strategies. I strive to make our sessions a supportive space where we can work together effectively toward your wellness goals.

Let's Begin Your Journey

‍Taking the first step can be the hardest part. I am here to make that process feel manageable and supported. I am currently accepting new patients for both in-person and virtual appointments and look forward to helping you feel empowered on your path to well-being.

My Availability & Rates

Hours of operation: Mon-Fri: 8AM-5PM; Sat: 9:30AM-2PM

Private Pay Rate:

$275 first session, $175 for follow up sessions

Email me at:

Contact@greatpathwayspsychiatry.com

Schedule Online

FAQ’s

Common Questions

Find the information you need to book your first appointment with ease and confidence.

Testimonials

What Our Patients Say

Our greatest reward is seeing our patients progress on their journey to wellness. We are honored by these testimonials, which reflect our commitment to providing a safe, supportive, and effective path forward for everyone we serve.

"The staff is a godsend!"

"Ms. Rhoda and her incredible staff provide amazing, family-like care. Her gentle, professional approach and new med choices transformed my teens from dreading appointments to cooperating. The responsive staff is a godsend. Highly recommended!"

A. King

5 Star Review

“She really cares!”

"I feel listened to and heard when I meet with Rhoda. She really cares about her patients and is helping me feel like a human again. She is very supportive and works with you to find the medication, habits, and practices to make life better. My queen!"

Kelsi Orms

5 Star Review

"100% recommend without hesitation!"

"Rhoda took away my anxiety of talking with someone almost immediately. She’s sweet, and funny and does everything she can to make you feel comfortable. I’m so glad I paired with her, and am finally on a healthy road to being the best version of myself I could be. 100% recommend without hesitation."

Candice Arriaga

5 Star Review

“Merlin is incredibly helpful & pleasant to talk with!“

Merlin is not only incredibly helpful, but very easy and pleasant to talk with as well. I’m sure each case is different for each person, but from our first meeting after a brief discussion she was able to provide a meaningful solution for my needs. She’s worked with me multiple times to tailor alternatives when needed and has been quick to respond and be available whenever I’ve needed to contact her.

Clayton Ferrell

5 Star Review

"I am finally feeling like my normal self!"

"After seeing Dr Merlin for six months, I am finally feeling like my normal self. She is very professional. Mrs. Merlin Thomas is a smart psychiatrist that actually cares for your well being. Don’t see that much nowadays."

Omar Sukaik

5 Star Review

"My experience here has been 10/10!"

"My experience here has been 10/10. From the initial start of scheduling appointments I have felt heard and taken care of. I can’t recommend Rhoda enough. She’s attentive, caring and really listens, which has resulted in me getting the fine-tuned help I was looking for."

Tiffany Harris

5 Star Review

"Rhoda went ABOVE & BEYOND"

"Rhoda & her team are excellent! Our first meeting was virtual & she just got to know me & found out what I needed from her. The next meeting was in person, and because I’d just started a new job & couldn’t take off she went ABOVE & BEYOND to make sure she was able to see me. She’s kind & understanding & I will continue to see her."

Kristen B

5 Star Review

"10/5 STARS!"

"Absolutely amazing psychiatrist with a fantastic and caring staff! 10/5 STARS. Very friendly and quick to all questions and concerns. Everyone is very welcoming and always willing to go and beyond to support your mental health! A wonderful doctor and team!"

Nicole Hatten

5 Star Review

Merlin Thomas – Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMH

Meet Merlin Thomas, your expert Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

A Message From Merlin

My Approach to Your Care

My Credentials & Expertise:

A Personal Note

Let's Begin Your Journey

My Availability & Rates

Common Questions

My treatment Specialties

Anxiety Treatment

Depression Treatment

Anger Management Treatment

Psychiatric Evaluation

Substance Abuse Treatment

What Our Patients Say

"The staff is a godsend!"

A. King

“She really cares!”

Kelsi Orms

"100% recommend without hesitation!"

Candice Arriaga

“Merlin is incredibly helpful & pleasant to talk with!“

Clayton Ferrell

"I am finally feeling like my normal self!"

Omar Sukaik

"My experience here has been 10/10!"

Tiffany Harris

"Rhoda went ABOVE & BEYOND"

Kristen B

"10/5 STARS!"

Nicole Hatten

Ready to Find Relief?