nurse practitioner blog
Explore a wide range of topics from evidence-based
mental health practices to
real-world applications
Helping you stay informed and confident in your practice, whether you’re navigating the challenges of starting out in the field as a new psychiatric nurse practitioner or looking for more insights to enhance patient care, the Stress Free Psych NP Blog offers practical advice, expert tips, and a supportive community dedicated to your professional growth and success.
How to Diagnose Mental Disorders When Time Is Limited: A Guide for Psych NPs
What’s your biggest struggle when it comes to treating mental disorders right now? A few months ago, I asked this question to my community and I received a range of responses—from managing co-morbid disorders to knowing the appropriate medications and dosages to...
From Psych NP Student to New Grad: What I Wish I Knew on Day One
I remember my first day as a psych NP like it was yesterday. After accepting a job in community mental health, I was given my very own office for the first time. It should have felt exciting. But mostly? I was terrified. My very first patient was a young woman with an...
Top NP Resources from 2025: Most Popular Tools, Tips & Topics
As we round toward the end of the year, I thought it’d be fun to do a little “year in review” — Stress Free Psych NP style. 🎉 I dug through everything I’ve shared this year to find the NP resources you downloaded, clicked, talked about, and shared the most. And wow —...
NP Qualification: How Psych NPs Compare to Psychiatrists
I've had patients request to see a physician instead of me. I've had days where I saw little improvement in my patients and doubted myself as a result. I’ve had days when I left work wondering why I chose this profession. Can you relate? These moments have led me to...
How Nurse Practitioners Bring Dignity and Respect to Mental Healthcare
A recent conversation stopped me in my tracks. Someone close to me shared an experience with a renowned specialist at a top hospital—a place expected to provide exceptional care. But instead of feeling like a participant in their care, they left feeling like a...
What Makes a Great NP? 5 Traits That Set You Apart
Every NP has had that moment—questioning their skillset, second-guessing a decision, or feeling like there’s still so much to learn. If that’s where you are now, know this: you’re not alone, and you’re likely growing in ways you don’t even realize. So, what truly...
Claire’s depth of knowledge and personal experiences have made her an invaluable resource for our listeners. She consistently delivers practical, actionable advice that empowers mental health providers to overcome the challenges of the profession.
Download the Free SSRI Snapshot
Reframe how you think of each SSRI and more easily select appropriate treatment with your patients.






