Your Questions, Answered
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An Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) is a highly trained healthcare provider with graduate-level education and national board certification. With specialties in psychiatry and family practice, an APRN is trained to assess, diagnose, and treat both mental health and medical conditions across the lifespan. This combined background allows for a whole-person approach to care, recognizing how physical health, mental health, and lifestyle factors are deeply connected.
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I am an advanced practice nurse with extensive graduate-level education, clinical training, and national board certification. Advanced practice nurses complete a master’s or doctoral degree and ongoing continuing education to maintain licensure and stay current with evidence-based best practices.
I earned my undergraduate nursing degrees from Mississippi University for Women and my Master of Science in Nursing from University of Colorado Colorado Springs, with specialty training in Family Practice. I later returned to school to complete a Post-Master’s Nurse Practitioner Certificate in Psychiatry–Mental Health, which provided advanced training in psychiatric assessment, knowledge of therapy modalities, psychopharmacology, and the treatment of complex mental health conditions.
I am board certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) through the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners and board certified as a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) through the American Nurses Credentialing Center. I complete ongoing continuing education to ensure that the care I provide remains current, safe, and grounded in the latest clinical research.
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Integrative psychiatry combines traditional psychiatric care with evidence-based complementary approaches to support mental health. This may include lifestyle interventions, nutrition, sleep optimization, stress management, mindfulness, and targeted supplements when appropriate. Integrative psychiatry does not replace medication or therapy when they are needed—it thoughtfully incorporates additional tools to support healing and long-term wellness.
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Yes. As an advanced practice psychiatric provider, I am licensed to prescribe psychiatric medications when clinically appropriate. Medication decisions are made carefully, collaboratively, and based on a thorough evaluation of symptoms, history, risks, and benefits.
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Psychiatric medications can be extremely helpful, but they must be prescribed thoughtfully and responsibly. Safe prescribing includes using the lowest effective dose, avoiding unnecessary medications, monitoring for side effects, and regularly reassessing whether a medication is still beneficial. This approach prioritizes patient safety, long-term well-being, and informed decision-making.
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No. Medication is just one tool in mental health treatment. Many individuals benefit from therapy, lifestyle changes, skill-building, and integrative strategies—either alone or in combination with medication. Treatment plans are personalized and adjusted over time based on your needs and goals.
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Psychiatric visits often include supportive therapy, psychoeducation, and skills-based interventions. Depending on your needs, referrals to specialized therapists may also be recommended to complement medication management and psychiatric care.
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Yes. Telehealth appointments are available when clinically appropriate and allow for convenient access to care. Some conditions, medications, or regulatory requirements may necessitate in-person visits at times.
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No. This practice does not provide emergency services. If you are experiencing a mental health emergency or have thoughts of harming yourself or others, please call 988, go to the nearest emergency room, or call 911.
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Your initial visit includes a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, review of medical and mental health history, discussion of current concerns, and collaboration on a treatment plan. There is time to ask questions and ensure you feel informed and supported.
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Care is patient-centered, collaborative, and holistic. The goal is not just symptom reduction, but improved quality of life, resilience, and long-term mental wellness. Treatment decisions are made together, with respect for your preferences, values, and individual circumstances.