I am a board-certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and received my degree from Vanderbilt University in 2013. Prior to that I received my master's degree in counseling and worked as a clinical therapist with various populations including addiction, communicable diseases, adolescents, and geriatric care. I am currently licensed in Tennessee, Kentucky, Washington State, & California. My training allows me to conduct psychiatric evaluations, make diagnoses, prescribe medications and supplements, and do nutritional and wellness counseling. I specialize in treating many mental health disorders across the lifespan starting at age 5 years old. I have experience with a broad spectrum of disorders including depression, anxiety, OCD, panic, mania/hypomania (bipolar), psychosis, attention deficits and hyperactivity (ADHD), Autism Spectrum Disorder, and post-traumatic stress (PTSD). As both a medication provider and clinically trained mental health clinician I believe medication is not for everyone. Life can be tough and for some, we need better coping skills which can be learned in psychotherapy. For others with elevated symptoms, medication-assisted treatment is necessary to restore the chemical levels in the brain.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
My primary practice goal is to strive to provide integrated health care that addresses not only the symptoms of mental health but also considers the broader aspects of a person’s life. Encourage preventative mental health measures by promoting regular check-ups and educational resources as necessary. Cultivate a practice environment that is inclusive and welcoming to individuals from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and identities. Create a safe and non-judgmental space for clients to express themselves and tailor treatment plans to meet the unique needs and circumstances of each person. Lastly, eliminate the hierarchical environment of healthcare and foster a give-and-take relationship between me and each client. Involving everyone in shared decision-making and every step of the treatment plan.
What treatment methods and tools do you utilize?
As an advanced practice nurse practitioner, I am allowed to provide medication management and solution-focused psychotherapy within my scope of practice. Your initial intake will be a session where I get to know you as a whole, what your treatment goals are, and how your present symptoms interact with your activities of daily living. From there a treatment plan will be discussed with your input. Many treatment plans include psychopharmacology along with behavioral modifications. Wellness counseling, nutritional supplementations, and alternative therapies are also discussed in the session.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
I am well versed in treating across the lifespan. I have extensive clinical training serving children and adolescents starting at age 5. I have worked in depth with specialized clinics for children with ADHD, Autism, & Anxiety. My biggest strength is being able to effectively listen and formulate appropriate treatment plans for the long haul. As stated above in my specialties I am fully trained and clinically comfortable assessing and treating all ages with symptoms that fall into an array of developmental and mood disorders.