Author: Laura Baker, PMHNP-BC

What LGBTQIA+ Patients Wish Their Mental Health Providers Understood

As psychiatric clinicians, we’re trained to assess symptoms and offer care based on what we hear. Yet, when it comes to LGBTQIA+ patients, many providers miss critical parts of the story, not out of malice, but due to a lack of training and awareness. This isn’t about shame; it’s about growth. LGBTQIA+ patients face unique […]

How To Stop Negative Thinking With Simple CBT Methods

Negative thoughts can feel automatic, shaping how we see ourselves, others, and the world. When left unchecked, they can create a cycle of self-doubt, anxiety, and emotional exhaustion. These patterns can become so ingrained that they feel impossible to change. But here’s the good news: the way you think is not set in stone. Cognitive […]

The Psychological Toll of Political Uncertainty and How to Cope

Political uncertainty can be exhausting. When the future feels unpredictable, it’s easy to feel anxious, overwhelmed, or even powerless. The constant news cycle, debates, and uncertainty about what’s coming next can take a real toll on mental health. For some, this stress shows up as racing thoughts, difficulty sleeping, or a constant need to check […]

Tips to Overcome the Fear of Your First Psychiatric Appointment

Taking the step to schedule a psychiatric appointment is a courageous move toward improving your mental health. Yet, it’s normal to feel apprehensive about what lies ahead. You might wonder: What will they ask me? Will I receive a diagnosis immediately? How can I communicate everything I’ve been feeling? Understanding what to expect and taking […]

How To Recognize Depression That Defies The Norm

When most people think of depression, they imagine persistent sadness, hopelessness, and a loss of interest in daily activities. While these are hallmark symptoms of depression, they don’t represent every individual’s experience. For some, depression manifests in entirely different ways, ways that can be misunderstood, dismissed, or even overlooked by healthcare providers. If you’ve noticed […]

How to Improve Teen Mental Health Outcomes with Early Diagnosis

Adolescence is a critical developmental window, one in which young people are particularly vulnerable to the onset of mental health conditions. Research indicates that half of all mental health disorders begin by age 14, yet adolescents are often underdiagnosed or diagnosed only after their conditions have significantly progressed. For pediatricians, child psychiatrists, and other healthcare […]