I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with doctoral education and extensive experience delivering mental health care across various settings, including hospitals, clinics, and crisis services. I hold a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree and have specialized training in psychiatric evaluation, medication management, and crisis intervention. My background includes leadership roles such as Director of Nursing and experience as an expert witness in medical legal cases. I provide comprehensive, compassionate care tailored to each patient's unique needs, with a focus on mental health evaluation, medication management, and support for individuals dealing with psychiatric conditions, including geriatric and substance use populations.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
In their first session with me, clients can expect a warm, collaborative environment where we will discuss their concerns, mental health history, and goals. I will conduct a thorough assessment to understand their needs and develop a personalized treatment plan, which may include therapy, medication management, or other supportive interventions to begin their journey toward better mental health.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
I believe my greatest strengths as a provider are my strong communication skills, empathy, and ability to build trusting relationships with clients. Additionally, my comprehensive understanding of mental health conditions and evidence-based approaches allow me to provide personalized, effective care that empowers clients to achieve their goals.
Describe the client(s) you are best positioned to serve.
I am best positioned to serve clients experiencing mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, psychotic disorder, PTSD ADHD, and substance use issues, particularly those who may be ambivalent about change or need support in developing coping strategies. My training as a PMHNP allows me to provide comprehensive psychiatric assessments, medication management, and therapeutic interventions tailored to individuals seeking holistic mental health care.
About Kifle Jikamo
Kifle Jikamo offers therapy covered by Central California Alliance for Health (Medi-Cal), Gold Coast Health Plan (Medi-Cal), L.A. Care Health Plan (Medi-Cal), Partnership HealthPlan of California (Medi-Cal) and San Francisco Health Plan (Medi-Cal) in California.
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VirtualMy treatment methods
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
I extensively utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help patients identify and challenge negative thought patterns, develop healthier coping strategies, and improve their overall mental health. I incorporate CBT techniques into my practice by tailoring interventions to each individual's needs, guiding them through structured sessions that promote self-awareness and behavioral change. This approach has proven effective in treating a range of conditions, including depression, anxiety, and trauma-related disorders.
Existential
As a PMHNP, I incorporate existential therapy principles by helping patients explore fundamental questions about meaning, purpose, and personal responsibility. I use this approach to support clients in gaining deeper self-awareness, confronting life's inherent uncertainties, and finding authentic ways to navigate their mental health challenges, fostering a sense of empowerment and resilience in their recovery process.
Compassion Focused
I incorporate compassion-focused treatment methods to foster a supportive and empathetic therapeutic environment. I utilize techniques that help clients develop self-compassion and reduce feelings of shame or self-criticism, which are often barriers to healing. By integrating these approaches, I aim to promote emotional resilience and empower clients to cultivate a kinder, more compassionate relationship with themselves.
Multicultural
I prioritize a multicultural approach by recognizing and respecting diverse cultural backgrounds, beliefs, and values in my patients. I incorporate culturally sensitive assessments and tailor treatment plans to align with each individual's cultural context, fostering trust and improving engagement. This approach enables me to provide more effective, personalized care that acknowledges and addresses the unique needs of each patient.
Motivational Interviewing
I utilize motivational interviewing to foster a collaborative and non-judgmental environment, helping patients explore and resolve ambivalence about change. I use this technique to enhance engagement, support behavior change, and empower patients to take an active role in their mental health journey, ultimately promoting better adherence and improved outcomes.