Rural Psychiatry Associates - Alexandria, MN

08/23/2025

This week, let's get to know Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Psychotherapist, Bailey Alvarez.

🦋 Where did you earn your degree?
I went to the University of Southern California for my Masters.

🦋 What kind of services are you able to provide?
I am experienced in a wide range of therapeutic services for all age levels, treating patients who have experienced everything from trauma, su***de, grief/loss to anxiety and depression.

🦋 What kind of treatments have you been trained in?
I’ve used a lot of different forms like eye movement desensitization & reprocessing, cognitive behavioral therapy, and play therapy, just to name a few.

08/20/2025

Q: Will discussing mental health with my child make their anxiety or depression worse?

A: No. Open communication could actually help them. Letting them know you are a safe person to share their feelings with can actually improve their mental health.

If your child needs additional help from a caring professional, Rural Psychiatry Associates has a certified team of experts that are well versed in treating kids and teens.

08/19/2025

🥳 Happy Anniversary, Montana!

Hard to believe it has already been a year since we opened our first clinics in the state. We are greatly honored that you’re entrusting us with your health.

📍 Great Falls:
721 Central Ave
Suite 107
Great Falls, MT 59401

📍 Billings:
960 S. 24th Street W
Suite H
Billings, MT 59102

08/17/2025

Mental illness impacts nearly every age group. For our aging population, there are three big risks that make them even more vulnerable.

1️⃣ Increased isolation: Kids may move away, retirement, down sizing that involves a move to a new neighborhood.
2️⃣ Loss of loved ones: Seniors start to lose more and more loved ones and friends to various illnesses & age.
3️⃣ Decreased independence: Their body and mind has been through the ringer and is starting to slow down. Now it is necessary to have help for once simple tasks.

One or all of these changes can take a big toll on your mental health. At Rural Psychiatry Associates, we believe the senior population deserves a customized approach to mental health care, and we provide services in person or via telehelth.

Visit this link for additional information to learn more about how we can help the seniors in your life 👉 https://bit.ly/4mgttUs

08/15/2025

Psychotherapist Michelle Adler, LMSW is one of the talented professionals you’ll find at Rural Psychiatry Associates.

🦋 Where did you go to school?
I attended Northeastern University for my Bachelors degree in International Affairs. For my Masters degree in Social Work I went to The University of Texas at Austin.

🦋 What are some of your primary focuses?
I have a passion for serving the LGBTQIA community and individuals with disabilities, especially autism and ADHD.

🦋 Do you have any other specialties as a Social Worker?
Yes, I’ve provided complex trauma therapy to adolescents and young adults experiencing homelessness. I also work with individuals and couples ranging in age to navigate life transitions and conditions through a combination of EMDR, mindfulness, and narrative therapy. I believe each client is an expert in their own experience.

08/13/2025

Q: Will children naturally outgrow their mental health problems?

A: Mental health issues don’t just ‘go away’. But, there are ways to treat and manage them. In fact:

🦋 Untreated issues could get worse
🦋 Could impact their development / ability to adapt to the world around them
🦋 May lead to other issues down the road like substance abuse, dropping out of school, or dangerous behaviors

It’s important to create a safe place for your child to express their feelings. If need be, chat with your child’s pediatrician to get them treatment from a mental health professional.

08/13/2025

It’s International Youth Day! This is an excellent time to focus on your child’s mental health.

Just like adults, kids can experience anxiety, trauma, ADHD, and depression. However, the way they express these symptoms can vary based on age. If your child needs professional help, it’s important to find a place like Rural Psychiatry Associates that treats patients of all ages.

There are three important ways child Psychiatry is different from adult psychiatry:

1️⃣ Family influence: Younger patients rely on the adults in their lives to identify whether the child is struggling with mental issues then seek help.
2️⃣ Critical time frame: Due to their young age, kids may not fully comprehend a mental illness or why they need treatment.
3️⃣ Professional help: Getting professional help is a great step toward supporting the young loved ones in your life.

For a closer look at the ways child psychiatrists may be able to help your child, check out this article ➡️ https://bit.ly/4m6YCJI

08/10/2025

It’s back to school time! While some kids may be thrilled, others may be experiencing some anxiety. Here’s how you can best navigate some of these emotions.

💬 Create a routine: Before school even starts, chat with your kid about what the daily/weekly routine will look like. Everything from bed time, waking up, breakfast, etc.
🎒 Encourage independence: Allow kids (especially the younger ones) to pack their own backpack, lunch, pick their own outfits.
☕ Practice communication: Make a habit of asking your child about their day & really listen. Validate and talk through any emotions they may be having.
🚲 Make time for play/relaxation: Just like adults, after a long day, kids need some down time. Even if it’s just 15 minutes, make time for a game, walk or bike ride. Let them just be kids.

08/09/2025

Are you ready to take a leap and schedule your first appointment?

Rural Psychiatry Associates cares for patients in person and via telepsychiatry in North Dakota, Minnesota, South Dakota, Montana, Utah, and Alaska.

Here’s how to make the most of your first visit.
🦋 If going the telehealth route, you’ll want to find a spot with strong wi-fi & a quiet background with no interruptions.
🦋 Be open/honest about your symptoms & the impact they have on your life.
🦋 Your provider will discuss a treatment plan which could include follow-up sessions, medications, other forms of treatment.
🦋 After your session make sure you follow the treatment plan & give yourself grace.
🦋 Remember, healing & improving your mental health will take time.

08/08/2025

It’s introduction time! Meet Deonna Spies, APRN, PMHNP-BC. She’s one of the Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners you’ll find at Rural Psychiatry Associates.

🦋 Where did you go to school?
I attended the Passan School of Nursing at Wilkes University. This is where I earned my Masters of Science in Nursing with a specific concentration of Psychiatric Mental Health. This is also where I earned my post-graduate certificate for Family Nurse Practitioner.

🦋 Tell us more about your nursing experience?
I did a nursing leadership internship at BSA Health System. I’ve also taught in the nursing program at Amarillo College and served as faculty chair for the Student Nurses Association.

🦋 Who do you treat?
My patients range in age from children all the way to geriatric.

08/07/2025

Q. If a provider has a waiting list, does that mean it’ll take months to get help?

A. Unfortunately, this can be true due to a shortage of mental health professionals & increased demand for services. But don’t get discouraged!
🦋 Talk with your primary care provider. They’ll be able to offer initial support and even find faster options.
🦋 Online therapy can offer quicker access, especially in rural settings.
🦋 While you wait, seek support from your network of trusted friends and family.
🦋 If you are in a crisis, reach out to hotlines like 988.

08/03/2025

Anxiety and depression. It impacts many adults and unfortunately, children and teens are not immune either. Here are some things to know:

🦋 Signs in kids may show up in how they act at home vs. at school or another house
🦋 Genetics can also influence your child’s anxiety / depression as well as
🦋 Parental influence
🦋 Trauma
🦋 Abuse

The good news? It is treatable and it is something the trained professionals at Rural Psychiatry Associates can help you and your family through.

For a list of some of the disorders children and teens may experience, check out this video ➡️ https://bit.ly/4lP90FX

11/28/2024

Happy Thanksgiving from all of us at Rural Psychiatry Associates! 🦃🍂 We are grateful for the trust you've placed in us and for the opportunity to support your mental well-being. Today, let's take a moment to reflect on gratitude, connection, and the strength that comes from community. Wishing you and your loved ones a day filled with warmth, joy, and peace.

11/13/2024

💚 This World Kindness Day, let's spread kindness far and wide, especially where it's needed most. A small act of kindness can make a big difference in someone’s mental well-being. Let’s uplift each other and create a ripple of positivity that reaches every corner.

11/11/2024

Too much screen time can impact your mental health. Here are some tips to find balance with technology.

11/04/2024

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10/31/2024

Happy Halloween from Rural Psychiatry Associates! 🎃👻 Remember, mental health matters year-round, even during spooky season. Things aren’t always what they seem—it's okay to seek help when you need it. We're here to support you.

10/23/2024

Bailey Alvarez from Rural Psychiatry Associates discusses some mental health tips for new parents.

10/10/2024

On , let's prioritize our mental well-being just as much as our physical health. 🌼💙
Mental health matters every day. Whether you're seeking support or simply taking time for self-care, remember that you deserve to feel your best. At Rural Psychiatry Associates, we're here to offer guidance, support, and a listening ear.
Together, we can break the stigma. Let's talk about mental health.

10/03/2024

October is , and at Rural Psychiatry Associates, we’re committed to raising awareness about ADHD and breaking down the misconceptions surrounding it. 🌟

ADHD affects people of all ages, and with the right support, individuals can thrive. Let’s foster understanding, embrace neurodiversity, and encourage open conversations about the challenges and strengths that come with ADHD.

If you or a loved one need support, we’re here to help.

09/27/2024

Learn five ways exercise improves your mental health in addition to your physical health in this blog.

09/23/2024

09/20/2024

Rebecca Ohlson from Rural Psychiatry Associates discusses screen time and its affects on mental health.