My story

From the bedside to the whole person

Before specializing in psychiatry, I spent over 15 years as a nurse practitioner caring for patients with complex medical illnesses in hospital settings. That experience gave me a deep appreciation for the connection between physical and mental health — and for how profoundly emotional well-being shapes overall quality of life.

Over those years, I noticed something important: many patients were struggling not only with physical illness, but also with depression, anxiety, and substance use — challenges that were often a significant source of suffering and frequently contributed to repeated hospitalizations. Yet the hospital environment rarely allowed the time or space to address these needs the way patients truly deserved. That realization led me to pursue advanced training in psychiatric care.

My approach

Compassionate, individualized care

I believe psychiatric care should be approached with compassion, curiosity, and respect — and that treatment should be tailored to the individual, not applied from a one-size-fits-all template. To be effective, we have to build trust and work together toward you living your life with more intention, freedom, and peace of mind.

One area I feel especially committed to is medication-assisted treatment for substance use. There are highly effective medications — including buprenorphine and naltrexone — that can reduce cravings and meaningfully support recovery. Yet many patients are never told these options exist, because relatively few providers are trained or comfortable prescribing them. Helping patients access these treatments is an important part of my work.

Staying current

Grounded in research, applied in practice

In addition to my private practice, I remain connected to an academic medical center — which keeps me closely engaged with current research, emerging treatments, and evolving best practices in mental health care. I bring that knowledge directly into my work with patients, so that care is always thoughtful, current, and grounded in the best available evidence.