This week, my guest is Tracy Hicks, a doctorally-prepared and dual-certified family and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She also holds an MBA, which is particularly useful in her role as a CEO.

Tracy is the founder of C-Trilogy Comprehensive Clinical Care and C-Trilogy Outreach, a certified community behavioral health clinic that provides mental health services, substance use support, primary care, and 24-hour crisis help.

I was excited to talk with Tracy, who is an expert in the care and treatment of individuals with schizophrenia, because in my 36 years as a nurse, I have encountered only two patients with this diagnosis, both of whom were teenagers. I knew very little about the condition and was eager to learn from Tracy, and she did not disappoint.

We discussed long-acting injectables as a successful treatment option, the challenges of compliance, and the management of a long-term chronic disease. We also emphasized the crucial importance of a strong support system to help patients lead meaningful lives.

A recurring theme in our conversation was Tracy's passion when discussing these complex cases. This emotion stems from her lived experience, as two of her beloved family members—her father and her daughter—both have the disease. Growing up with the stigma of having a father with schizophrenia has shaped her perspective, and even though her daughter is now grown, Tracy’s concerns for her never waver.

Tracy’s days are incredibly busy. Between practicing in the clinic, serving on multiple boards that advocate for marginalized populations, and shaping the next generation of nurses as an Associate Professor, people often ask her how she manages it all. Her answer? When you align with your purpose from God, He will guide your steps. She truly is a blessing to her community.

In the five-minute snippet: Be prepared to jump! For Tracy's bio, visit my website (link below).

Dr. Tracy Hicks Puts Her Mind to Improving Access to Mental Care, Frontier Nursing

Empowering Care Partners Through Psychoeducation in Schizophrenia Care, Psychiatric Times

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Going Beyond the Diagnosis of Schizophrenia with Dr. Tracy Hicks