Questions and Answers
What is your philosophy of care?
Midwifery means to “be with.” I continue to use this philosophy when caring for my patients regardless of the service I am providing. I strive to understand each individual person and see the unique strengths they have to offer the world. I want your treatment plan to match your goals! I believe part of “being with” is offering true informed consent that reviews treatment options and empowers patients to take back their autonomy and make the choice that feels best while knowing that they have my support. I have found this to be instrumental in building trust.
What is your approach to treatment?
Although I follow evidence-based care, it is not a set algorithm applied to each patient. Each patient is an individual who has their own desires, goals, and expectations for care. I offer multiple treatment options and following a collaborative discussion, the patient decides the optimal treatment approach. Since I have multiple specialties, I am comfortable offering lifestyle recommendations, psychiatric medication and hormonal treatment pending the individuals’ preferences and needs.
I’m pregnant. Why see a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a midwifery background.
I know the mental health training obstetric providers receive and it is embarrassing VERY little if any at all. I can offer a compassionate discussion that weighs the risk and benefits of medication management in pregnancy versus no medication. I do this from a place of full understanding of the messages received in our healthcare system and culture. I do this from this place of a parent. These can be hard decisions that deserve the experience of someone who is specialized in both psychiatry and reproductive health.
Can you be my midwife too?
Although I'm trained, certified, and licensed as a Certified Nurse Midwife, I do not offer traditional midwifery pregnancy services at Orchid Psychiatry and Wellness. I do continue to practice midwifery in the community because I love that role and want to continue to support and advance positive outcomes in maternal morbidity and mortality in the community.
Do you treat family members?
In general, I try not to intentionally treat individuals within the same household for psychiatry services, however, I take this on a case-by-case basis. I understand finding a provider you love and wanting your loved ones to be cared for them as well. I have found treating parents and children less than 18 years old to be difficult on the therapeutic process so will not cross that boundary.
Why do you only offer ADHD evaluations to ongoing patients?
I spend more time than most providers during an ADHD evaluation. Evaluations are usually done over 2-3 one-hour follow-up appointments. This is after we have already completed the psychiatric intake. I enjoy caring for neuro-spicy individuals and want to see their success and journey. Although I could fill my clinic day with ADHD evaluations, I enjoy seeing and supporting each persons journey.
Why do you offer virtual services only?
Although I love in person appointments, I have found most patients desire virtual appointments for the ease and convenience. This has caused my in-person clinic days to be lonely and an additional cost burden that I do not want to pass on to clients. If my reproductive health services grow, I will find space for in person appointments again.
Helping you feel heard, supported, and empowered through life’s changes.
