How Nurse Practitioners Are Bridging the Gap in Healthcare Through Telehealth
Meet Dr. Marie Akers, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC, PPCNP-BC, PMHS
Dr. Marie Akers is a doctorally trained, triple-board-certified psychiatric and pediatric nurse practitioner specializing in evidence-based mental health care. With extensive experience treating children, adolescents, and young adults, she adheres to the Nursing Consensus Model, ensuring that every patient receives gold-standard, research-backed psychiatric care. Dr. Akers is dedicated to bridging healthcare gaps through evidence-based practices, supporting the patient, and providing resources and education for families to ensure holistic care.
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Telehealth has revolutionized access to healthcare by eliminating geographical barriers, reducing wait times, and providing efficient, patient-centered care. Research shows that telemental health services are highly effective in treating conditions such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, behavioral problems related to autism, and sleep disturbances. Nurse practitioners (NPs) are vital in expanding these services, ensuring that high-quality mental healthcare is available to those most in need.
Certifications:
🔹 Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner-Board Certified (PMHNP-BC)
🔹 Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner-Board Certified (PPCNP-BC)
🔹 Pediatric Mental Health Specialist (PMHS)
Learn More About the Nursing Consensus Model
Watch: The Global Impact of Telehealth on Mental Health Care
How Nurse Practitioners Are Leading the Telehealth Revolution
Nurse practitioners (NPs) are at the forefront of the telehealth movement, delivering high-quality, evidence-based care to patients who might otherwise struggle to access treatment. NPs are uniquely positioned to bridge healthcare gaps by providing:
🔹 Comprehensive Mental Health Evaluations – Covering ADHD, anxiety, depression, autism-related behavioral challenges, and sleep disturbances.
🔹 Personalized Treatment Plans– Medication management and therapy tailored to individual needs.
🔹 Holistic Family Support– Offering guidance for parents and caregivers on supporting their child’s mental health journey.
🔹 Continuity of Care – Building long-term relationships with patients and families through virtual check-ins.
Learn More: Why Nurse Practitioners Are Essential in Healthcare
How to Choose the Right Telehealth Provider
🔹 Choosing the right telehealth provider is crucial for ensuring high-quality mental healthcare. Here’s what to look for:
🔹 Licensing & Credentials: Ensure the provider is licensed in your state and follows the Nursing Consensus Model for APRN regulation
🔹 Evidence-Based Practice: Verify that the provider follows scientific, research-backed treatment protocols and avoids non-evidence-based interventions.
🔹 Telehealth-Specific Experience: Look for providers with experience in virtual psychiatric assessments and medication management.
🔹 Secure & Confidential Platforms: Ensure the provider uses HIPAA-compliant video conferencing software to protect your privacy.
🔹 Comprehensive Care Approach: A quality telehealth provider should offer therapy, medication management, and family-centered support strategies.
🔹 Explore NAMI’s Guide to Telehealth Services
The Future of Telehealth and Nurse Practitioners
Telehealth is transforming how we approach mental healthcare, and nurse practitioners are leading the charge in providing high-quality, accessible, and affordable care. By integrating telehealth into everyday practice, NPs are bridging the healthcare gap, ensuring more people receive the mental health support they need.
Interested in Telehealth Services? Book a Consultation Today!
References
American Psychiatric Association. (2022). DSM-5. (https://www.psychiatry.org/psychiatrists/practice/dsm )
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023). ADHD. (https://www.cdc.gov/adhd )
National Institute of Mental Health. (2023). ADHD Information.](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-adhd )
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). (2023). Telehealth & Mental Health Services. (https://www.nami.org/Your-Journey/Individuals-with-Mental-Illness/Getting-Treatment/Telehealth)
Healthy People 2030. (2023). Social Determinants of Health. (https://odphp.health.gov/healthypeople/objectives-and-data/social-determinants-health )
Harvard Medical School. (2023). Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. (https://www.health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-adhd )
