WHO I AM

I came to be a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner after more than 20 years working as a nurse-midwife, caring for thousands of people from puberty through menopause. From this experience I offer a unique and useful perspective when treating mental health issues during adolescence and the perinatal period.

I am excited to work with young adults who are struggling to navigate their emotional health during times of significant change and growth in their life. This is often the first time you are accessing direct care without significant parental participation and I want to empower you to understand and participate in your treatment as much as possible.  (People under the age of 18 will need parental consent for treatment and some parental involvement in treatment planning.) I see people with anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorders and PTSD. 

Reproductive mental health care includes care during pregnancy planning, the perinatal and postpartum periods.  It also includes menstrual related mood changes, most commonly referred to as PMDD (premenstrual dysphoric disorder).  When it comes to pregnancy planning, addressing your mental health as early as possible significantly reduces the risk for postpartum depression, postpartum anxiety and other more serious conditions. It also reduces the risk for pregnancy related complications and impaired bonding with your newborn. 

I practice from a trauma informed lens and I am committed to ensuring that my clients have access to the support and resources they need to thrive during these times.  We will work together to develop a unique treatment plan that involves shared decision making between the two of us to promote your health and wellness and that of your family.