As a board certified Psych-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner I believe in empowering and supporting individuals in their quest for mental well-being, purpose and joy.
I have been practicing as a Nurse Practitioner since 2006. My main focus is working with individuals with schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders, PTSD, and those in recovery of substance use and addictive disorders. I have many years of experience working with depression and anxiety disorders.
The focus of the sessions will be person centered and it is important for you to tell me your story. The individuality of your experience is a central theme with me. I encourage you to identify goals and aspirations in your own words and the treatment plan will be developed together.
Medication recommendations will aim to reduce feelings of stress, anxiety, and panic. I am also a specialist in finding the right combination of medication for substance use to reduce cravings and/or urges to use, and to prevent relapse. I have a strong background in understanding different medications for psychosis and other mood disorders and I am adept at recognizing the signs for when a change may be required. There also may recommendations for case management, support groups or other psychosocial interventions. Collaboration with your other specialists is always a goal and family involvement can often be useful and an integral part of treatment.
The first session will be a comprehensive evaluation, and based on this assessment a diagnosis will be provided. You can expect to gain an understanding of your mental health diagnosis and or addiction. A trusting and supportive therapeutic relationship is fundamental to effective mental health care. Open communication is a two-way street and you should feel comfortable sharing openly and honestly. You will participate in treatment planning and make informed decisions about your own care. I also offer supportive therapy alongside your medication plan, and I may refer out to other professionals for additional support. You will develop and practice coping skills to manage symptoms and improve well-being. On going support and monitoring will be provided to ensure your treatment plan is effective.
