Meet Kathleen Johnson

MSN, PMHNP-BC

I create an environment free from judgement, and meet you where you are. I partner with you to look at current mental health patterns and substances used to better treat the root cause that precipitates the current crisis.

I provide telehealth psychiatric services and addiction treatment as part of a complete treatment plan which can include nutrition, supplements, medication, counseling and psychosocial support. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Specializing in Addiction, I take the time to explain the science behind what is creating the dis-ease, answer questions, and work with you on the goal of full remission of the mental health or addictive crisis so you can go on living your life to the fullest.

I have an extensive personal journey with mental health having raised three sons, all with varying degrees of mental discord which includes autism and addiction. Additionally, my mother suffered a brain injury which led to chronic psychiatric instability. This long journey in the mental health world led me to change careers by returning to school to become a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, an 8-year commitment that I most recently fulfilled.

As an adoptee, I am an avid Ancestry detective sleuth. I have a strong interest in History and love to combine history with travel. I enjoy being an empty nester with my husband of 30 years raising our two Mini Aussies and being around the water. My husband and I recently relocated from Colorado to the Charlotte area to be closer to family.

I assist patients who are experiencing a range of presenting concerns, including: substance use, substance withdrawal, physical drug dependence, new on-set psychosis or delirium, restlessness, disruptive decision making, constant worry, irrational fear, sadness, difficulty experiencing positive emotions, inattention, brain fog, difficulty focusing, irritability, fatigue, excessive energy, excessive guilt, difficulty falling or staying asleep, nightmares, disruptions in normal living, anger and explosiveness, hopelessness, feelings of isolation, feeling on edge, persistent negative thoughts, flashbacks, distortions in perceptions, emotional distress, pain without medical explanation, emotional or behavioral regulation, difficulty coping with everyday life, difficulty with interest or motivation, preoccupation with death or suicide, persistent thoughts or impulses, repetitive or excessive behaviors, difficulty losing weight, unexplained weight gain or loss, or impulse control.

AREAS OF FOCUS

While I work with a wide range of people and presenting problems, some of my most common topics of focus include:

Approach

I provide primary mental health care, including both psychotherapeutic and pharmacological treatment in the treatment of life disrupting behavioral dis-ease. My approach is to get to know you and your history and together with you come up with a plan that leaves you feeling supported and encouraged while you work on improving your mental health and wellbeing. I treat the whole person and support your efforts with medication, nutrition, lifestyle improvements and integrative care.

Professional Background

I have been associated with and employed by the University of Colorado obtaining my Bachelor and Master Degrees in Nursing there. I have been an adjunct instructor with the University of Colorado and worked in an NP led integrative health clinic. I have amassed a wealth of experience which includes inpatient dual diagnosis and detox, outpatient medically assisted treatment, integrated health care, residential addiction treatment and led psychoeducation groups in a recovery setting. I have also worked both as a floor/office nurse and the Director of Nursing in Psychiatry and Addiction.

Education Credentials

• Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

• Master of Science in Nursing - University of Colorado - Colorado Springs

• Bachelor of Science in Nursing - University of Colorado- Anschutz Medical Campus

I am currently a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in the State of Oregon.