by Claire Ellerbrock, DNP, PMHNP | Apr 9, 2026 | Career Advice, Transition into Practice Tips & Resources
Feeling the pressure to know everything as a new psych NP is almost a rite of passage. I remember how overwhelming it felt—trying to have all the right answers, managing complex patient situations, and constantly wondering if I was doing it “right.” But if there’s one...
by Claire Ellerbrock, DNP, PMHNP | Feb 19, 2026 | Career Advice, Thoughts and Reflections
Every once in a while, it’s worth pausing to ask yourself: What do I actually enjoy doing? Sometimes the answer surprises you—and sometimes, it leads to your next great idea. Recently, after stopping by a local cookie shop and indulging in a classic chocolate chip, I...
by Claire Ellerbrock, DNP, PMHNP | Feb 3, 2026 | Career Advice
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, one of the most stressful parts of the job can be the fear of missing something important. A new provider in our Mental Disorders Crash Course community recently shared how she often worries she’s not doing enough. She’s in...
by Claire Ellerbrock, DNP, PMHNP | Jan 29, 2026 | Career Advice
Around my house, I’m known for two things: My lack of talent for cooking.And my ability to reduce stress treating mental disorders. While I won’t pretend I’ve got a lasagna recipe worth sharing, I do have some resources that I do stand behind—especially if you’re a...
by Claire Ellerbrock, DNP, PMHNP | Jan 20, 2026 | Career Advice, Clinical support resources
You know those moments early in your career that make you cringe a little when you look back? If you’re a new grad psych NP—or even an RN—you’ve probably had a few moments like that too. When I started as a psych NP, I made several mistakes that I now view as valuable...
by Claire Ellerbrock, DNP, PMHNP | Jan 6, 2026 | Career Advice, Transition into Practice Tips & Resources
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...