Natasha Smikles MSc, RPN
Registered Psychiatric Nurse

Natasha is a highly skilled Registered Psychiatric Nurse (RPN) with a wealth of experience in the field. With over 15 years of dedicated experience in mental health, her work is widely recognized and held in high regard within the industry. She has had the opportunity to work in a variety of mental health programs, including acute psychiatry, in-patient behavioral treatment programs, psychiatric emergency room nursing, crisis services, community mental health, and most recently, private practice. Natasha takes a holistic approach to her work, addressing clients' mental health concerns and promoting overall wellness.

Natasha has received advanced training in various behavioral therapies, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). These evidence-based therapies have proven effective in helping clients manage symptoms, overcome maladaptive behaviors, and gain valuable insights into their thoughts and actions.

Natasha has vast experience in working with individuals with adult ADHD and has a special interest in metabolic interventions for the treatment of mental health conditions, such as ketogenic diets. Her approach integrates traditional therapeutic methods with innovative metabolic strategies to enhance mental health outcomes.

Natasha has completed her Master's degree, with distinction, in Psychology and Neuroscience of Mental Health from the prestigious King's College London. Her thesis project focused on critically reviewing Modified Dialectical Behaviour Therapy Interventions for Regulating Emotions in Individuals with Borderline Personality Disorder. This research showcases her commitment to advancing the field and her expertise in tailoring interventions to meet the unique needs of individuals with complex mental health conditions.

In addition to her extensive experience and qualifications, Natasha is also the co-founder of the DBT Winnipeg program, where she has played a pivotal role in providing comprehensive Dialectical Behaviour Therapy services to the community. Collaborating closely with her business partner, Kyla Johnston, they have created a supportive and effective environment for individuals seeking DBT interventions.

Furthermore, Natasha has demonstrated her entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to fostering collaboration among mental health clinicians by co-founding the Mental Health Collective. This initiative aims to provide a shared space for mental health professionals, facilitating knowledge exchange, collaboration, and professional growth. Through the Mental Health Collective, Natasha and Kyla have created a supportive community where clinicians can come together to enhance their practice and improve mental health services collectively.

With her extensive experience, qualifications, leadership, and entrepreneurial endeavors, Natasha is dedicated to providing exceptional care and support to her clients. She is committed to making a positive impact in the mental health community and continuously strives to improve mental health care through innovative approaches and collaborative initiatives.

Qualifications:

Master of Science in Psychology and Neuroscience of Mental Health, Kings College London 2023 - Distinction

Bachelor of Science in Psychiatric Nursing, Brandon University 2009

College of Registered Psychiatric Nurses of Manitoba #3381

Attendance in Workshops, Conferences, Courses:

Integrative Medicine for Mental Health Conference: Washington, DC (4-day), 2024

CADDRA: ADHD Primer and Conference, Winnipeg (3-day), 2024

Brain Energy: The Metabolic Theory of Mental Illness, online course - Dr. Chris Palmer, 2024

Natasha Smikles MSc, RPN Registered Psychiatric Nurse

Natasha Smikles MSc, RPN
Registered Psychiatric Nurse