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Ever wondered how psychiatric nurse practitioners seamlessly blend talk therapy with medication management? In this illuminating conversation, we're joined by Dr. Kate Wheeler (lovingly dubbed "East Coast Kate") who shares her journey of maintaining a vibrant psychotherapy practice even after retiring from academia.

Dr. Wheeler offers a candid look at her approach to therapy, particularly her specialization in EMDR for trauma patients. With refreshing honesty, she explains why she prioritizes psychotherapy over medication management: "My goal is always to get people off of stuff rather than starting a medication." Her practical insights on patient screening, managing therapeutic relationships during extended absences, and documentation practices provide valuable guidance for practitioners at any stage.

Meanwhile, Dr. Kate Melino ("West Coast Kate") provides a fascinating contrast with her work in a home-based primary care setting. Her approach to therapy with homebound adults, many facing end-of-life issues, demonstrates how narrative therapy and existential approaches can be adapted to serve unique patient populations.

The conversation takes an enlightening turn when the hosts discuss documentation requirements, with Dr. Wheeler candidly sharing her preference for process notes over insurance-driven progress notes in her cash-based practice. This sparks a valuable discussion about balancing clinical needs with regulatory requirements.

Whether you're a psychiatric nurse practitioner looking to incorporate more therapy into your practice, a student wondering about the practical aspects of psychotherapy integration, or simply curious about the intersection of talk therapy and medication management, this episode delivers practical wisdom from clinicians who've successfully navigated these waters.

Want to learn more about bringing psychotherapy back to psychiatric practice? Subscribe to Peplau's Ghosts for more insightful conversations on advancing psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner practice.

Let’s Connect

Dr Dan Wesemann

Email: daniel-wesemann@uiowa.edu

Website: https://nursing.uiowa.edu/academics/dnp-programs/psych-mental-health-nurse-practitioner

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-wesemann

Dr Kate Melino

Email: Katerina.Melino@ucsf.edu

Dr Sean Convoy

Email: sc585@duke.edu

Dr Kendra Delany

Email: Kendra@empowered-heart.com

Dr Melissa Chapman

Email: mchapman@pdastats.com