About me
Heather Hemmeger, PharmD, MSN, PMHNP (she/her)
As both a psychiatric nurse practitioner and former pharmacist, I approach patient care from a unique lens, integrating my knowledge of advanced pharmacology with evidence-based psychotherapy techniques to help patients live more fulfilling, joyful lives while expanding their capacity to cope with life’s challenges.
My approach is holistic, neuroscience-informed, and culturally sensitive, rooted in the understanding that each person’s identities and social contexts deeply shape how they experience the world. Too often, traditional models of mental health care place undue burden on the individual, overlooking systemic and structural roots of distress. I do this work, because I believe in the possibility of a more sustainable and nurturing society, built on empathy, community, and connection.
I believe the therapeutic relationship is one of the most powerful tools we have in medicine. I keep my practice intentionally small so that I can offer care that feels personal, collaborative, and grounded in trust, allowing me to be fully present with each patient and provide care that’s both thoughtful and accessible.
I specialize in older adolescent and adult psychiatry, with a focus on anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar and related disorders, OCD, ADHD, and sleep disorders. I also have advanced training in women’s mental health, including treatment during pregnancy and the postpartum period.
Read on to learn more about my prescribing philosophy.
Welcome, I’m glad you’re here.
I’m Heather — founder of Hillside Psychiatry, a private practice based in Portland, Oregon, offering thoughtful psychiatric care to adolescents and adults.
Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD), Purdue University
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), Vanderbilt University
Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Board Certification (PMHNP-BC), American Nurses Credentialing Center
Education & Certification
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My prescribing philosophy
When prescribed thoughtfully, psychotropic medication can be a safe and effective part of treatment — especially when combined with therapy and other non-pharmacological interventions. Still, many people feel hesitant to seek psychiatric care, whether due to societal stigma, past medication side effects, or negative experiences with providers who may not have taken the time to fully understand their concerns or explain treatment options. It doesn’t have to be this way.
I approach prescribing as a collaborative process, with a strong emphasis on patient education and shared decision-making. My goal is for you to feel informed and actively engaged in your treatment. I prioritize a thorough diagnostic assessment at intake, as an accurate diagnosis helps to inform evidence-based medication selection.
When it comes to medications, I believe in a “less is more” approach. I often meet patients who have been placed on unnecessarily complex regimens that aren’t serving them. While I am confident in prescribing, I am equally skilled in de-prescribing and can help simplify regimens when appropriate to reduce side effects, support the development of healthy coping skills, and promote long-term wellbeing. I am cautious in prescribing controlled substances and do not prescribe benzodiazepines for daily use.
