Welcome Jennifer Stone: Our Newest Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner at LÉVO
At LÉVO, we understand the importance of navigating a personalized path to better mental health. Through in-depth assessments, careful diagnoses, and when appropriate, responsible medication management, we strive to provide our patients with the best possible care. We are thrilled to introduce Jennifer Stone, our newest team member who brings valuable clinical knowledge and a collaborative spirit to our practice. Let's get to know Jennifer and her passion for mental health.
Jennifer Stone:
A Brief Introduction "I'm Jennifer Stone, a psychiatric nurse practitioner who just started at LÉVO. I am relatively new to the field, having graduated about a year ago before relocating to Utah from Massachusetts. My journey began at the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, where I earned my Master's degree to become a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I'm excited to bring my background and passion to the team here at LÉVO."
Passion for Helping Patients
When asked about her passion for helping patients navigate mental health concerns, Jennifer shared, "I became a psychiatric nurse practitioner not only because I enjoy helping people feel better both physically and mentally but also due to my personal experiences. Raising a son with mental health challenges opened my eyes to the struggles that young people and their parents face. Many times, parents don't know where to turn for resources, and they feel isolated. This inspired me to become a psychiatric nurse practitioner and use my experience to help others."
Special Populations
Jennifer has a particular interest in working with adolescents and young adults, inspired by her experiences as a parent. "I enjoy working with adolescents and young adults as well as supporting their parents. Raising a child with mental health issues is incredibly challenging. I want to offer the support and resources that I found lacking during my own journey."
Importance of Medication Evaluation
Discussing the significance of medication evaluation in psychiatric care, Jennifer explained, "A thorough medication evaluation, performed by a specialist, is essential. It allows us to make an accurate diagnosis and create a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses not just the symptoms but also the psychosocial aspects of a patient's life."
Debunking Medication Myths
There are many myths and stigmas surrounding mental health medication. Jennifer addresses one such myth: "Some believe that taking medication alone will fix everything. While medication can be very helpful, it should be complemented with other tools like therapy and lifestyle changes for maximum benefit."
Additional Tools and Strategies
Jennifer emphasizes the importance of a holistic approach to mental health care. "In addition to medication, therapy is crucial. Physical health also plays a significant role, so regular exercise, spending time outside, and maintaining routine health screenings are all important. These elements work together to enhance the effectiveness of medication."
First Appointment Experience
For those considering their first appointment at LÉVO, Jennifer outlines what they can expect. "An initial appointment with me involves getting to know the patient and understanding what brought them to seek help. It's about hearing their story and identifying the factors impacting their mental health. This comprehensive assessment allows us to create a tailored treatment plan."
Building Connections
Jennifer believes in the importance of building strong connections with her patients. "Being open and genuinely listening to a patient's story is vital. Connecting on a personal level helps build trust and makes the patient feel comfortable."
Maintaining Personal Mental Health
As a mental health provider, Jennifer ensures she takes care of her own mental health. "I love to hike and explore the beauty of Utah. Spending time with my nearly two-year-old nephew brings me immense joy. I also make sure to keep up with my physical health and enjoy activities like watching movies and bingeing TV shows."
