I offer medication management in combination with cognitive behavioral therapy via telemedicine. I utilize traditional medicine with complementary and alternative medicine. As a dual board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner, I care for the community by balancing the rational, emotional and spiritual health of each individual. By using a holistic approach I provide my patients with the tools to overcome psychiatric symptoms and stressors. I am described as genuine, compassionate, and empathetic. I work with adults and the geriatric population afflicted with different mental health conditions to develop personalized treatment plans to achieve patient specific optimal goals. I conduct psychiatric evaluations focusing on an individualized treatment plan. I specialize in ADHD, Anxiety Disorders, OCD, PTSD, Depression and Insomnia. I educate patients on nutrition, exercise, and other lifestyle changes to improve their physical, mental, and psychosocial well-being. I look forward to working with you!
During a client's first appointment with a psychiatrist, they can typically expect the following introductions where I introduce myself and explain my role in your care. I will conduct an assessment to gather information about your current symptoms, medical history, any previous mental health treatments, and family history of mental illness. This helps in understanding the context and background of your situation. You will have an opportunity to discuss your concerns, symptoms, and what led you to seek psychiatric help. This conversation may include your goals and expectations for treatment. Based on the assessment and discussion, I will formulate a diagnosis (if appropriate) and propose a treatment plan. This may include medication, therapy, lifestyle changes, or a combination of these approaches. I will explain the proposed treatment, its expected benefits, potential side effects, and alternatives.
I focus on building a trusting and supportive relationship with my patients by actively listening, empathizing with your experiences, and creating a safe environment for open communication.
Those with depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, Bipolar disorder, trauma, and borderline personality disorder.
Treating depression, anxiety, and ADHD with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can be highly effective and impactful. Here's a general overview of how CBT is applied to each of these conditions: Depression: Cognitive restructuring: This involves identifying and challenging negative thought patterns that contribute to feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness. Behavioral activation: Encourages patients to engage in activities they enjoy or find meaningful, even when they don't feel like it, to counteract depressive symptoms. Problem-solving skills: Teaching individuals how to break down overwhelming problems into smaller, manageable parts and work towards solutions. Anxiety: Exposure therapy: Gradual exposure to feared situations or objects, combined with relaxation techniques, helps individuals confront and reduce anxiety. Cognitive restructuring: Similar to depression treatment, this involves challenging irrational thoughts and beliefs that contribute to anxiety. Mindfulness and relaxation techniques: Learning techniques to calm the mind and body, such as deep breathing or progressive muscle relaxation. ADHD: Skill-building: Teaching organizational skills, time management, and planning abilities to improve daily functioning. Behavioral strategies: Implementing behavioral techniques to increase focus and reduce impulsivity, such as using structured routines or breaking tasks into smaller steps. Cognitive restructuring: Addressing negative thought patterns related to self-esteem and frustration that often accompany ADHD. In practice, CBT for these conditions typically involves a structured approach where the therapist collaborates closely with the individual to set specific goals, identify triggers, and develop personalized strategies. The emphasis is on teaching practical skills and changing patterns of thinking and behavior that contribute to distress. Success in CBT often hinges on the therapeutic relationship, the individual's commitment to practicing new skills outside of sessions, and the therapist's ability to adapt techniques to fit the unique needs of each person. It's important to note that while CBT can be highly effective, outcomes vary, and some individuals may benefit from a combination of therapy and medication depending on the severity of their symptoms.