Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner - Family Nurse Practitioner

I have been a Registered Nurse since 1991. After many years of acute and emergency care, I realized that primary care was the basis for patient care so I received my family nurse practitioner. I worked in a small community providing primary care to patients of all ages. During this time, I recognized that psychiatric care was essential to the well-being of my patients but it was challenging to find resources for them. I returned to school to further my education and skills in psychiatric care thus working towards my psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. The combination of family practice and psychiatry is very complementary and truly a gift to my patients. I really enjoy getting to know my patients and creating a long term relationship with them. I have a passion for working with adolescents, as it is a challenging time in life. I feel that working with them at this period in life is essential for their development into adulthood.

I believe the best approach is listening to my patient, assessing their needs and educating them about the options. Unlike traditional medicine in which vital signs, tests and labs can guide us psychiatric care is a journey and the answer may not be obvious initially. I feel that there are a variety of factors to take into account as well as various ways to approach your treatment. This evidence based treatment plan may include medications as well as therapy. I am prepared to work with you through the process.