by Claire Ellerbrock, DNP, PMHNP | Dec 25, 2025 | Career Advice
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...
by Claire Ellerbrock, DNP, PMHNP | Dec 23, 2025 | Thoughts and Reflections
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...
by Claire Ellerbrock, DNP, PMHNP | Sep 9, 2025 | Transition into Practice Tips & Resources
Several years ago, I received my very own office for the first time. I had a desk, a computer, a big comfy swiveling chair, and privacy—a real office with a door. It felt surreal. This was my first job as a new nurse practitioner. A New Chapter Begins The first few...
by Claire Ellerbrock, DNP, PMHNP | Oct 20, 2022 | Career Advice, Transition into Practice Tips & Resources
Once you’ve been extended a formal job offer, most nurse practitioners do a happy dance and get ready to sign on the dotted line. This is a mistake. Contract negotiation is key part of the job process and skipping over this is leaving opportunity on the table. Why...
by Claire Ellerbrock, DNP, PMHNP | Jul 19, 2022 | Career Advice, Salary and Negotiation, Transition into Practice Tips & Resources
Do you know how many patients a nurse practitioner sees on average per hour? 57.4% of NPs see 3 or more patients in an hour. Is that a surprising stat or what?! It’s extremely important in the interview process when looking for a job as an NP to ask what the patient...