We are thrilled to say that Kyle McKinley has decided to remain at CCIH as both a prescriber and therapist, and will begin offering medication management appointments in November 2023! Kyle is a licensed Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years of mental health care experience, who is currently finishing up his year as a CCIH Fellow.
Below is a brief interview with Kyle where he discusses how he will be combining his previous experience working as a nurse in the field of mental health with CCIH’s approach to treatment.
You’ve worked in mental health for several years–what made you want to seek additional training in psychotherapy at CCIH?
As a psychiatric nurse, I have been a care provider to a wide array of people in many different circumstances. I have seen throughout my career how collaboration between the provider and client is a key factor in the healing process. Once I started prescribing, I also became very aware of the complexities of the use of psychiatric medication in the treatment of mental health concerns. I came to CCIH because I wanted to build on my existing skills and deepen into trauma-informed care to continue to treat people in a more complete and holistic way.
How has your time providing psychotherapy at CCIH influenced the way you view prescribing medication?
Trauma is so pervasive, and the symptoms of trauma are often misdiagnosed as other disorders. Trauma takes time to heal, but our healthcare system is very focused on quick fixes. Many believe that medication alone should solve anxiety, depression and other mental health concerns. In my experience, there is no shortcut or magic pill for healing these wounds.
But, the good news is that all of us have within us what we need to heal ourselves. Medication is a great tool that can be used to help dial down acute symptoms so that we can better access those inner healing resources.
What can clients expect when they come to you for medication management?
We’ll collaborate! I have knowledge and training, but I am of course not an expert on you and your experience. We will work together during appointments to find the right approach. We also won’t only discuss medication during appointments, but other resources that don’t require prescription that can improve your mental health as well.
Kyle McKinley, APN, PMHNP
Interested clients can request an appointment with Kyle at https://the-ccih.com/medication-management/
