Frequently asked questions

Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners (PMHNPs) are registered nurses with specialized, post-graduate training in mental health care along with advanced medication management. They assess, diagnose, and treat conditions like anxiety, depression, and trauma, often combining therapy, counseling, and medication. PMHNPs can practice independently without supervision in over 27 states, making them more accessible in healthcare.

Both PMHNPs and psychiatrists treat mental health conditions and can prescribe medication, but their training differs. PMHNPs follow a nursing path, usually completing 6-7 years of education and residency, while psychiatrists attend medical school and residency, taking about 12 years. PMHNPs often have greater availability and lower rates, providing a practical alternative for many patients.

Here is a study that highlights the role of a PMHNP and mental health care delivery:  

https://www.news-medical.net/news/20220906/Study-highlights-the-role-of-psychiatric-mental-health-nurse-practitioners-in-mental-health-care-delivery.aspx

During the initial consultation, we’ll discuss your medical and mental health history, current symptoms, and treatment goals. Together, we’ll develop a personalized treatment plan, which may include medication, psychotherapy, EMDR, or a combination of these approaches.

Integrative psychiatry is broad and encompasses multiple modalities like lifestyle modification, supplements, herbs, sleep assistance, dietary changes, and medication. We regularly offer psychotherapy along with your follow-up appointments, which is different than a typical practice where you would need a separate therapist. 

We also often work with other complementary alternative medicine specialists like chiropractors and acupuncturists and work closely with your primary care and specialty providers. 

Functional psychiatry is narrower, often one single modality within integrative psychiatry. It focuses on root causes with a holistic treatment approach, frequently using supplements, dietary changes to improve gut health, lab testing, and personalized treatment plans.

Many insurance plans cover integrative psychiatry services, including medication management and psychotherapy. EMDR is also typically covered by insurance plans. We recommend checking with your insurance provider or contacting our office for assistance with verification.

At Bigger Skies Mental Health, we choose not to prescribe controlled substances such as stimulants, hypnotic sleep medications, or benzodiazepines. Instead, we take an integrative approach to treating conditions like anxiety, sleep disturbances, and difficulty focusing. We believe that combining conventional psychiatric care with holistic therapies can offer more sustainable and effective solutions.

Our holistic approach allows us to create personalized treatment plans that prioritize long-term mental health and well-being, without relying on controlled substances. These substances often come with risks of dependency, side effects that may worsen the underlying condition, and other serious health concerns. We aim to help you achieve lasting relief through balanced and effective care.

Medication is not always necessary. We work collaboratively to determine the best approach based on your symptoms and preferences. Some patients benefit from therapy alone, while others find that a combination of medication and therapy provides optimal relief.

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is often associated with trauma treatment, but its benefits extend far beyond that. While it's highly effective for addressing past traumatic experiences, EMDR can also be used to help with a wide range of emotional and mental health challenges. It has been shown to reduce anxiety, depression, and stress, while enhancing overall emotional processing and resilience. 

By helping individuals reframe unhelpful beliefs and thought patterns, EMDR can promote healing from issues like low self-esteem, relationship struggles, and performance anxiety. It’s a versatile and powerful therapeutic tool for anyone looking to break free from limiting beliefs, negative emotions, or unhelpful behaviors, regardless of their specific struggles.

EMDR is effective for individuals who have experienced trauma or have distressing memories that affect their daily lives. During your consultation, we’ll help assess whether EMDR or another form of therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), would best support your needs.

Yes, we offer telehealth sessions for both medication management and therapy. This allows you to receive care from the comfort of your home and accommodates busy schedules or transportation challenges.

To get started, please contact us to schedule an initial consultation. Our team will answer any further questions and help you take the first steps toward a personalized mental health plan.