Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Throughout her nursing career, Carly Peters, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC became increasingly drawn to the connection between the brain, emotions, physical health, relationships, and life experiences. That curiosity led her to psychiatry, where she has the opportunity to understand each patient's individual story and work with them toward meaningful, lasting change. She is naturally curious and enjoys understanding why people think, feel, and behave the way they do, and that genuine interest shapes the thoughtful, individualized care she provides.
Education and background
Carly earned bachelor's degrees in public health and nursing before completing her master's degree as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Wilkes University. Before becoming a PMHNP, she spent about 10 years working as a registered nurse, including extensive experience in emergency and acute behavioral health care. That background taught her how important it is to care for the whole person, not just a diagnosis, and gave her the ability to stay calm and present with patients during some of the most difficult moments of their lives.
Care philosophy
Curiosity, compassion, honesty, and collaboration are central to how Carly practices. She believes good psychiatric care should be evidence-based while still recognizing that every patient is an individual. Medication can be an important tool, but she also values education, therapy, lifestyle changes, relationships, and other factors that contribute to mental health. She is also a mom, which has given her plenty of experience with the complexity of real life, and she brings that grounded perspective to her work every day.
Personal interests
Carly has made Utah County home and loves the beautiful scenery, strong sense of community, and being close to the mountains. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her family, music, dancing, traveling, learning new things, and getting outside when she can. She is especially interested in psychology, neuroscience, and understanding how our experiences shape the way we think and feel.
What to expect
You don't have to have everything figured out before your first visit with Carly. The first session is largely about getting to know you, not just your symptoms and history, but your relationships, experiences, strengths, goals, and what you hope will be different. Carly listens before she assumes, asks questions, and makes sure you have room to explain your experience in your own words. From there, you'll discuss treatment options together and create a plan that makes sense for your life. Her goal is for you to leave each appointment feeling understood, informed, and actively involved in your care.