About our Portland Psychiatric Practice
The path that led me to psychiatric care began in an unexpected place – the intensive care unit of a busy trauma center in Long Beach, California. As an ICU nurse, I witnessed daily the intricate dance between physical and emotional healing. While I could help mend broken bodies, I noticed a deeper pattern emerging: the physical recovery often masked a more profound emotional struggle.
who, though physically healed, carried invisible wounds. They would return to our care, not because their original injuries had resurfaced, but because something deeper remained unaddressed. It was in these moments of recurring crisis that I discovered my true calling in psychiatric care.
My Approach
In our Portland practice, I bring together my unique background in both critical care and mental health. I often tell my patients that vulnerability, though challenging, is our greatest ally in healing. It's like standing at the bottom of a mountain – everything is laid bare, and the only direction is up.
My patients often say, with a hint of surprise, "You're different than I expected!" I take this as a compliment. I believe in being direct yet compassionate, often using humor to break down barriers. In our sessions, you'll find no pretense – just honest, down-to-earth conversations about what's really going on.
I focus primarily on medication management while offering therapy, creating a comprehensive approach to mental wellness. Think of it like building a bridge – medication can help stabilize the foundation, while therapy provides the support beams needed for lasting strength.
My Philosophy
One question I hear frequently is, "Will I need these medications forever?" My answer always begins with, "That's your choice to make." Some find comfort in long-term medication use, experiencing it as a return to their natural state. Others use it as a temporary support while working through specific challenges like grief or PTSD.
I believe in reframing how we think about mental health treatment. Instead of viewing medication as a crutch, we can see it as a tool for self-care. It's like choosing to wear glasses – we wouldn't judge someone for improving their vision, so why judge ourselves for tending to our mental health?
The heart of my practice lies in what I call mindful recovery. It's a deeply personal journey of transformation, where we examine our relationship with ourselves and the world around us. Together, we explore essential questions: What role do we play in our own distress? What can we release? What values will guide us forward?
In our Portland practice, we don't just treat symptoms – we build pathways to lasting change. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, disorganization, or relationship challenges, I'm here to help you discover your own unique path to recovery. Through medication management, therapy, or a combination of both, we'll work together to create the change you seek.
Remember, change isn't just possible – it's inevitable when we approach it with mindfulness, compassion, and the right support.
What is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)?
A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) is an advanced healthcare provider who combines comprehensive medical expertise with specialized mental health training. After years of experience as Registered Nurses and completing advanced education at the master's or doctoral level, PMHNPs are uniquely qualified to provide complete mental health care – from conducting physical exams and ordering lab tests to providing therapy and prescribing medications. In Oregon, PMHNPs practice independently, meaning they can diagnose conditions, develop treatment plans, and provide ongoing care without supervision from other healthcare providers. Their journey to practice includes passing national board certification exams and obtaining state licensure, followed by continuing education to stay current with the latest developments in mental health care. What sets PMHNPs apart is their holistic approach to care, understanding that mental health is deeply connected to physical wellbeing, and their ability to serve as both medical provider and mental health professional for their patients.