Why the Lotus?

 
I experienced severe Postpartum Depression (PPD) and Anxiety following the births of my children. I needed help and I found it with Postpartum Support International (PSI).

After receiving this support from PSI, I became a volunteer with them. I attended their annual conference and took their training courses. I learned how to provide peer-to-peer support, then started a group for new moms in Fort Worth.  

I later worked as a RN in the Parent Education Department at St. David's Hospital and became a Lactation Consultant (IBCLC). I learned a great deal about medications and lactation compatibility.
Given my own experience, I was especially interested in helping moms with mental health issues.
I saw a need for more qualified providers using evidence-based care and guidance.   

I went back to school and became a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP).
I thought at the time that I would have a practice focused solely on Perinatal Mental Health,
but I discovered a passion for providing psychiatric care to a wide variety of people. 

So my journey started with mud (PPD) and blossomed into the Lotus (my career).
That's why the lotus.