Krista Gusack
Aloha! You may be feeling overwhelmed, depressed, emotionally exhausted, or unsure of what to do next. Maybe stress has been building whether it is work, school, relationships, life transitions, trauma, or external events happening around you that impact your mental health. Reaching out for support can feel vulnerable, and taking this first step matters. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I see myself as your co-pilot. My role is to work alongside you while we look holistically at your life to see what recovery could look like for you. My goal is to create an accepting, collaborative space where you feel heard and supported while working toward a life that feels most aligned with your values and goals.
My experience includes 13 years in a variety of healthcare positions in nursing and mental health including 3 years as a PMHNP.
As a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I am experienced in treating people with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, ADHD, OCD, insomnia, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, substance use and personality disorders. I graduated from Vanderbilt University followed by completing a PMHNP residency at the Pittsburgh VA. My experience includes 13 years in a variety of healthcare positions in nursing and mental health including 3 years as a PMHNP. Currently offering telehealth appointments for adults ages 18+ in Utah and Hawaii. Please note: -I do not currently prescribe controlled substances. -Due to conflict of interest, I am not able to serve individuals eligible for VA healthcare.
First session
Please plan for approximately 60 minutes for our first session. Our intake will provided time for me to learn about your goals, past mental health treatment, health conditions, symptoms, and other information so that we can get you on the path to feeling your best.
Strengths
My strengths include curiosity, open mindedness, empathy. and commitment to shared decision making. My approach to patient care is through genuine curiosity, seeking to understand your experiences, perspectives and goals. Through open mindedness, I'm able to listen with acceptance so you are seen and heard without fear of judgement. I strongly believe in shared decision-making and working collaboratively because the best treatment plan is the one that prioritizes what is most important to you.
Ideal clients
I can best serve clients who are interested in taking medications as part of their treatment plan, are proactive and are looking for a collaborative and trauma informed clinician.
Treatment methods
Motivational Interviewing
My therapeutic style prioritizes assisting you to explore your own values, needs and preferences, as well as overcome barriers in an accepting manner to empower you to make choices to support your best self.
Psychoeducation
Knowledge is power when it comes to your recovery. When you're able to better understand your symptoms, diagnosis or treatment, it can assist you with recognizing your warning signs and advocating for your own care.
Supportive
Having good rapport with your clinician is an important part of your recovery. This may include empathy, positive reinforcement and providing hope.
Trauma-Informed Care
I utilize trauma informed care by recognizing the impact that trauma plays in many people's lives. The care I provided promotes trust, communication and working together to make your treatment plan.
Location
Virtual sessions