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.
Although physically healed many of my patients carried invisible wounds. They would return to the ICU over and over again- the result of poor decisions informed by despair, hopelessness, and self destructiveness. Something deeper remained unaddressed: their mental health needs. It was in these moments of recurring crisis that I realized that mental health and psychiatric care represented complete healing, in more ways than a physical wound closing.
I transitioned to psychiatry in 2011, working as a staff RN in a psychiatric hospital. I quickly became charge nurse and then hospital supervisor. Once established in psychiatry I knew that this was the specialty that I was meant to spend the rest of my career in.
I completed advanced graduate training in psychiatry in 2014. After establishing my primary psychiatric clinic I am proud to have established one of the first ketamine assisted therapy clinics in Portland during COVID. In doing so I was able to observe the therapeutic benefit of medically supervised psychedelic medicine for PTSD and Major Depressive Disorder which I remain a strong supportive of.
Everyday I am honored that my patients extend their trust to me and I get to observe their transition into recovery, and to witness their relief from seemingly endless suffering.
My Approach
My primary treatment focus is the use of education, reasonable doses of medication, and therapy to treat and manage symptoms that are negatively affecting the quality of your life. You can choose between 30 minute or 1 hour appointments to address any questions or concerns you have. I support and respect the autonomy of my patients through collaboration and shared treatment goals which means: we will work together as a team. My patients tell me that my commitment to my work shows in their positive outcomes!
My patients often say, with a hint of surprise, "You're different than I expected!" I take this as a compliment. I am often described as very direct, down to earth, and funny. I believe in being direct yet compassionate. In our sessions, you'll find no pretense – just honest, down-to-earth conversations about your concerns and what you can do to improve them.
I focus primarily on medication management while offering counseling, 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 relief from what has been bothering you. Whether you're struggling with social anxiety, depression, disorganization, or poor motivation, 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. If you do the work (which means to be honest, vulnerable, and willing to look at things from a different point of view) you are guaranteed a good outcome. Maybe not the exact outcome you want, but a favorable outcome, regardless.
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.