About Jessica
Child & Adolescent Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
A Road Less Traveled
Before becoming a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I worked in aviation as a flight attendant instructor and airplane mechanic and in the automotive industry as a mechanic and insurance adjuster. Although they were exciting careers, I was not fulfilled and searched for another career that could give me what I was lacking. Unknowingly, my past technical education of learning that “separate systems make up a whole”, led me to my future of nursing with a greater understanding of the human body. With patience and hard work, I have been able to realize my dream of fulfilment by helping others on their own journey as a psychiatric nurse practitioner. Although I took a longer route than most, my past experience enables genuine comprehension and openness when working with clients.
“Life is a Journey, Not a Destination” – Ralph Waldo Emerson
I am here to walk the path with you, not drag you or push you down it. My philosophy focuses on a multi-faceted practical approach of individualized client-centered care, to achieve overall wellness treatment goals by giving options, as you are the best judge for what would work for you.
Background & Credentials
I have worked with all populations in residential, inpatient, and outpatient psychiatric environments. However, my primary focus is with children, adolescents, and autism throughout the lifespan. I received my Bachelor of Science in Integrative Healthcare at Metropolitan State University of Denver, earned my Master of Science in Nursing at Johns Hopkins University, and obtained my Post-Master’s Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate at Regis College. To include additional certification received through University of Washington Autism Center of Excellence Training.
Personal Note
I was raised in both Minnesota and Colorado and have called Washington’s Olympic Peninsula home since 2021. I’m a mom to two dogs, and spend my free time hiking, exploring, reading, and researching.