Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
I grew up in Cambridge Massachusetts. As a 4 year old, I began to worry about what I was going to be when I grew up. At the time, I felt unable to decide whether to be a tiger or a ballerina. I settled upon a plan to be a dancing tiger.
However, my plans evolved. I attended Wesleyan University where I got my BA in English. In the following years I worked at the Perkins School for the Blind in Watertown MA, and later as a sexual health counselor at Tapestry Health in Northampton, while also writing songs, singing and performing with my husband Anand. An interest in midwifery led me to nursing school at UMass Amherst second bachelor’s program, which in turn led me to psychiatric nursing. I worked as a psychiatric RN for many years at Baystate Franklin Medical Center’s inpatient psychiatric unit.
My favorite part of psychiatric nursing is hearing people’s stories. I’m inspired by the courage and creativity people find in dealing with mental health challenges. In 2020 I returned to school for my master’s degree in nursing, becoming a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP). As I step into the role of psychiatric prescriber, it is clear to me that medication can be a valuable tool in managing mental health issues. I see it as only one piece of the picture- I believe self-reflection, sleep, sunshine, exercise, creative expression, meaningful work and social connection are all at the core of mental health.
I live in Florence with my husband, two sons ages 13 and 17, our golden doodle Charlie, and a guinea pig named Biscuit. I enjoy books, the beach, mountains, time alone, dogs of all kinds, walks in the woods, singing, writing songs, drawing and collage, board games, good food, and above all time with family and friends. While I never achieved the original dream of a career as a dancing tiger, I feel lucky to be working at NAP, where my two kids have received great care from Dr Kenny and Dr Steele among others.