by Claire Ellerbrock, DNP, APRN, 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, APRN, 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...
by Claire Ellerbrock, DNP, APRN, PMHNP | Jul 11, 2023 | Best practices
There have been a handful of times in my career as a nurse practitioner (NP) where I’ve had patients who challenged my sense of confidence in my role. One particular patient comes to mind. I was working at a community mental health center at the time and this...
by Claire Ellerbrock, DNP, APRN, PMHNP | Jun 27, 2023 | Best practices, Case studies and stories
As mental health providers, we’re often tempted to jump straight to treatment when a patient comes to us with a problem. However, skipping the crucial foundational steps can lead to misdiagnosis, inappropriate medication prescribing, and a vicious cycle of...
by Claire Ellerbrock, DNP, APRN, PMHNP | May 23, 2023 | Best practices
One of the most common reasons you’ll have patients coming to you is for anxiety. Anxiety is all around us today, as it has been, and will continue to be. Most providers don’t know how to effectively treat anxiety disorders and patients (and you) suffer as a result. ...