Many adults come to me after feeling dismissed, overmedicated, or unsure of their diagnosis. My work focuses on getting the diagnosis right and building a clear, sustainable treatment plan. I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner with over 25 years in healthcare. My background in both psychiatry and primary care allows me to look at the full picture, not just symptoms, but medical contributors, stress patterns, and life context. I specialize in complex mood disorders, adult ADHD, medication optimization, and second opinions when treatment has stalled.
Our first session is a comprehensive evaluation. We review your history, prior medications, what has helped, what has not, and what may have been missed. You will leave with a clear diagnostic impression and a structured plan. I do not make unnecessary medication changes. We move thoughtfully and intentionally.
Careful assessment and diagnostic clarity are my strengths. I value precision. Many patients tell me they feel more confident once they understand what is actually happening and why a specific treatment plan was chosen. I avoid reflexive prescribing and focus on building stability rather than chasing symptoms.
I work best with adults who want a structured, collaborative approach to managing anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, or complex mood symptoms.
Other specialties
I identify as
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
In my work with clients, I use CBT to help identify unhelpful thought patterns that can contribute to anxiety, depression, and other challenges. We focus on building skills that make it easier to manage stress, improve mood, and handle difficult situations with more confidence.
5 ratings with written reviews
May 14, 2026
I had a previous bad experience and was looking for medication management with someone who would help me understand my options were for managing my conditions. I also specifically wanted someone who recognizes medication as an acceptable option. Dr. Cotner listened, understood where I was coming from, and was knowledgeable and provided viable solutions and options to address all issues I raised. I left feeling better educated about my conditions, my options, and the plan moving forward.
May 8, 2026
I liked how she listened and took a detailed background history. She is open to exploring my main concerns and not to just keep me at the same doses that I've been on for years. I look forward to meeting with her again next time.
April 23, 2026
Recommend by my therapist in Grow and so grateful I was able to get a consult quickly. Given my medical history and Rx's, I appreciated her approach to adjusting long-term meds to gain the benefits of non-stimulant ADHD Rx. Looking forward to seeing how our agreed careful approach will play out. Dr. Cotner was thoughtful and direct in the pros and cons of the varied approaches in my specific situation. I'm in good hands.