by Claire Ellerbrock, DNP, PMHNP | Dec 18, 2025 | Thoughts and Reflections, Transition into Practice Tips & Resources
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...
by Claire Ellerbrock, DNP, PMHNP | Dec 16, 2025 | Diagnosis/Assessment tips for treating mental disorders
You’ve probably heard it before—”ADHD is overdiagnosed in adults”. Maybe you’ve even had colleagues or friends voice concerns that stimulants are being prescribed too freely, especially in light of the national shortage. And with TikTok influencers...
by Claire Ellerbrock, DNP, PMHNP | Nov 20, 2025 | Best practices
Early in my career as a psych NP, I constantly asked myself, “What medication should I be prescribing?” I was treating highly complex patients in community mental health, and I often felt like a fraud—uncertain of how to move forward with confidence. It took time (and...
by Claire Ellerbrock, DNP, PMHNP | Oct 21, 2025 | Diagnosis/Assessment tips for treating mental disorders
Imagine a patient presents to you with: depressed mood, low energy, disrupted sleep, and a loss of interest in activities they used to enjoy. What’s your next move? A. Start an antidepressantB. Reassess in 4 weeksC. Start a mood stabilizerD. Consider bipolar as a...
by Claire Ellerbrock, DNP, PMHNP | Oct 14, 2025 | Clinical support resources
As we move into autumn, many of us feel an almost Pavlovian urge to learn, read, and grow. I know I do. This natural inclination for some of us likely stems from the ingrained “back-to-school” season, even if we’re no longer students. If you’re an NP...