by Claire Ellerbrock, DNP, PMHNP | Aug 26, 2025 | Best practices
As PMHNPs, our medication choices shape how patients experience the world. Understanding neurotransmission rules isn’t just theoretical—it can improve safety, reduce side effects, and lead to better outcomes. Neurotransmitters are the chemical messengers that...
by Claire Ellerbrock, DNP, PMHNP | Jul 24, 2025 | Best practices, Prescribing tips for treating mental disorders
One of the most stressful parts of being a PMHNP is managing patients who partially respond—or don’t respond at all—to psychotropic medications. Whether it’s antidepressants, antipsychotics, or others, knowing what to do next isn’t always straightforward....
by Claire Ellerbrock, DNP, PMHNP | Jul 17, 2025 | Best practices, Prescribing tips for treating mental disorders
Understanding what sets newer antipsychotics apart is key for any PMHNP aiming to stay current with evidence-based treatment. Recent developments in partial dopamine agonists represent a major shift in how we manage psychotic disorders, but how much do you really know...
by Claire Ellerbrock, DNP, PMHNP | Jun 24, 2025 | Best practices, Prescribing tips for treating mental disorders
Many psychiatric nurse practitioners (maybe even you?!) fall comfortably into the Type A camp—I know I do. But even the most detail-oriented among us can feel uncertain about selecting the right medication. Since we prescribe antidepressants so frequently,...
by Claire Ellerbrock, DNP, PMHNP | Feb 9, 2024 | Best practices, Prescribing tips for treating mental disorders
Raise your hand if conversations with patients about benzodiazepines is one of your favorite things? I’m not the most confrontational provider or person, so conversations surrounding benzo tapers and benzo education aren’t the most fun for me. I’ve had my fair...
by Claire Ellerbrock, DNP, PMHNP | Sep 12, 2023 | Best practices
Borderline personality disorder (BPD) is a pattern of instability in mood, behavior, functioning, self-image, and relationships. Clinically, BPD may manifest in frequent self harm or suicide attempts. BPD is estimated to exist in ~ 1.6% of the general population and...