Amy Hardt
I'm a board-certified psychiatric mental health advanced nurse practitioner, licensed to diagnose and treat mental health disorders in Massachusetts. I hold master's degrees in the science of nursing, public health, and medical anthropology, along with bachelor's degrees in nursing science and African studies. Before becoming a psychiatric nurse, I spent 20 years as a health educator and public health researcher in the U.S. and overseas. Each patient's individual story is very important to me. Along with a personalized approach to prescribing (and deprescribing) psychotropic medications, I recommend evidence-based, holistic approaches to help patients optimize their sleep, nutrition, lifestyle habits, and nervous system regulation. I have training and experience in providing parenting/caregiver support, CBT for Insomnia, Trauma Focused CBT, Motivational Interviewing and Solutions-Focused Brief Therapy, allowing me to provide adjunctive therapeutic support as well.
Before becoming a psychiatric nurse, I spent 20 years as a health educator and public health researcher in the U.S. and overseas.
First session
During our initial visit you will have an opportunity to share your mental health challenges, strengths and treatment preferences. Together, we will develop an approach you feel comfortable with. From our first meeting, many patients share that they feel relief from being seen, heard, and validated in their struggles.
Strengths
Compassion, curiosity, and open-mindedness allow me to provide patients with a personalized approach to their mental health struggles. From working in a community mental health clinic, I have developed experience working with patients across the age span, with varying levels of illness acuity, and those who are dually diagnosed with mental illness and substance addiction.
Ideal clients
It brings me great satisfaction to offer my patients adequate time, respect and informational resources that they may not have received through our broken healthcare system. Building trust and leading with curiosity and compassion are the bedrock of my practice. Patients who have experienced trauma, significant loss, or felt abandoned by others often tell me they find our work together supportive and caring.
Treatment methods
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
I often use cognitive behavioral therapy principles in my practice, particularly to treat anxiety and depression-driven behavior patterns as well as insomnia and post-traumatic stress symptoms.
Mind-body approach
Along with or instead of medication, I often support patients in making gradual changes to the daily habits that often impact mental health, such as nutrition, substance use, sleep, physical activity, media exposure, socialization, and work-life balance. I also provide patient education and coach practices such as meditation, breathing and somatic exercises that help calm an overactive nervous system, whether it stems from trauma, stress or anxiety.
Location
Virtual sessions
Identifies as
Top specialties
Other specialties
Licensed in
- MassachusettsLicense RN2313592