About Me
I completed my undergraduate work at the University of Illinois in Chicago in 2003, graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. I began my career as a registered nurse on a medical – surgical unit at Centegra McHenry Hospital, where I worked for 8 years until I completed my Master of Science in Nursing at Northern Illinois University in 2011. I earned board certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner in 2011. As a family nurse practitioner, I worked in a variety of clinical settings including skilled nursing facilities, wound care management and pediatric primary care. During these clinical experiences, I found myself drawn to a care model that integrates assessment of the whole person, considering physical, psychiatric and social aspects of health to better help individuals to achieve optimal health and wellness.
I returned to graduate school in 2017 and completed postgraduate studies at the University of St. Francis. I earned board certification in March of 2019 as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My clinical experience in a variety of mental health settings including inpatient, partial hospitalization programs, psychotherapy groups and outpatient services has allowed me to expand my focus and implement strategies to integrate all aspects of health into my practice. My education and experience has put me in a position to better understand medical, psychiatric and social concerns and the intricate dynamic between these, so that I can better help my patients.
On a more personal note, I was born in Chicago and raised in the Northwest suburbs. I have been married since 2003 and I am a mom. In my spare time, I enjoy travel, reading, puzzles, bonfires, watching football and spending time with my family. I am passionate about helping to decrease the stigma associated with mental illness and mental health care while providing compassionate and empathetic care. I provide psychiatric evaluations to adults and adolescents with concerns in all areas of mental health including anxiety disorders, mood disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, and ADHD.
Certifications
ANCC board certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner
ANCC board certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Memberships
American Association of Nurse Practitioners
Neuroscience Educational Institute
American Nurses Association