What drives me is that bond, that trust.
David Brandsrud, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Sonder’s growing! And, in the process, we’ve welcomed some exceptional new medication providers to our team.
To celebrate, we’re kicking off a brand new blog series to introduce you to the humans behind the medication management services we offer.
This week, we’re talking with David Brandsrud, APRN, CNP, PMHNP:
Thanks for taking the time to chat with us, David! You have experience working with patients in a variety of settings. Who do you enjoy working with most?
I really enjoy working with kids and adolescents. There’s something special about getting to work with kids and their families, seeing them grow and gain confidence in themselves.
What first brought you to this work? What keeps you going?
In nursing school, most of my classmates got excited about placing IVs and performing procedures. I felt a little differently.
I got excited about the world of mental health. Talking with people, listening to their stories, and helping them through difficult times was much more rewarding to me.
After working as a nurse at an inpatient hospital, I decided to pursue graduate school. I wanted to be able to work more closely with patients and their families.
I feel fortunate to be in my current position. It’s a strange thing to meet someone, and within minutes, start hearing very personal information– information that’s often difficult to discuss.
What drives me is that bond, that trust. Working with people through various stages of life is what led me and keeps me here.
What’s one myth or misconception about emotional wellness that you see in your work with patients?
I think a big misconception, coming from a medication prescriber, is that medication is a quick fix to feeling better.
While medication can definitely help, it’s usually not the only answer. Therapy, exercise, eating healthy, getting enough sleep, meditation, connecting with friends or family– paired with medication, these are the things that lead to healing.
I understand that it’s not easy, but that’s why I show up to work. I’d love to help, so please ask me about ALL the ways you can improve your mental health!
When you’re not seeing patients at Sonder, what are you most likely up to?
You’ll find me reading most all the time. I also enjoy playing tennis, exercising, researching stocks, and cleaning. (I really like a clean house.)
As providers, it’s essential that we maintain our own emotional wellness practices. What does self-care look like for you these days?
Self-care for me is being engaged in hobbies, spending time with my wife, talking to family and friends, and getting outside. There’s something about being outside that really brings me a sense of peace. (Unless it’s below zero.)
What would you like to say to our readers who are on the fence about exploring medication as a care option?
If you’re feeling nervous or hesitant about whether or not you should schedule a visit, I recommend that you do it.
Mental health is like a muscle that needs to be worked. You don’t have to wait until that muscle is injured to chat with me, or anyone at Sonder.
Thanks, David! We couldn’t have said it better.
Interested in working with David?