About Me

Hello, I'm Dr. Tamara McDonald, a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), specializing in integrative psychiatry. I am licensed in the state of Idaho and am dual board certified in psychiatry and family practice. With a passion for holistic care, I integrate traditional psychiatric medicine with complementary and alternative treatments, psychotherapy, and lifestyle interventions. 

My journey into mental health began two decades ago as a midwifery apprentice, where I found profound fulfillment in supporting families during pregnancy and postpartum. Transitioning into small business development, I assisted doctors in opening private practices before pursuing my dream of becoming a doctor. Through personal experiences, and being a trauma survivor myself, I've learned the importance of resilience and growth, which deeply informs my approach to care. 

I am passionate about mental health because I understand how trauma can hold a person back from their pursuit of happiness. I know what it feels like to work through past trauma and create a life you love because I have done it. Therapy was part of my process to recover from my past, and everyone deserves the opportunity to heal and grow in a caring and supportive environment. 

In my free time, I enjoy running, hot yoga, and spending time with my husband and two Australian Labradoodles.

Passion for Women's Mental Health:

Specializing in women's mental health, I focus on addressing the unique challenges women face across the lifespan. From anxiety and depression to reproductive and hormonal health, I offer compassionate care tailored to each individual's needs. I help empower women to overcome past traumas, find inner peace, and cultivate healthy relationships with themselves and others.

Approach to Treatment:

I practice integrative psychiatry, which encompasses medication management, plant-based and herbal products, lab testing, lifestyle and behavior coaching, nutrition counseling, and psychotherapy. I treat the whole person, addressing both physical and psychological factors to foster sustainable mental well-being. My therapeutic style is characterized by empathy, thoroughness, and a commitment to empowering patients on their journey to healing.

Professional Background:

My credentials include dual board certifications in family practice and psychiatry. I completed a postgraduate residency in primary care and serve as an active member on state and local professional committees. I am a peer reviewer for RN Idaho and am the current chair of the Scholarship Committee for Nurse Practitioners of Idaho. As a published author, my graduate work on Hepatitis C Knowledge and Risk Reduction Strategies has contributed to improving public health. Through my undergraduate project, I was part of the efforts that lead to leagalizing public breastfeeding in Idaho during the 2018 legislative session.

What Others Say:

Described by friends and family as empathetic, kind, and detail-oriented, I strive to create a supportive and nurturing environment for my patients. Patients often characterize me as empathetic, thoughtful, and empowering, emphasizing my dedication to their holistic well-being.

If you are seeking compassionate and comprehensive care for women's mental health issues, I am here to support you on your path to healing and growth.

Credentials:

- Doctor of Nursing Practice/Family Nurse Practitioner (DNP/FNP) - Idaho State University

- Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) Post-Graduate Certification - Saginaw Valley State University

- Residency in Adult Gerontology Primary Care from Boise VA Medical Center

- Board Certified Family Nurse Practitioner

- Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

- Bachelors of Nursing Science from Boise State University

- Published author

- Active member of state and local professional committees

Select Presentations and Publications:

RN Idaho. Hepatitis C Knowledge and Risk Reduction Strategies in the Recently Paroled and Transitional Housing Population. May 2022. https://www.nursingald.com/publications/2452

Boise State University Undergraduate Research and Scholarship Conference. Breastfeeding Family-Friendly City Assessment (Abstract). April 2017. http://scholarworks.boisestate.edu/hs_17/7

Podium Presentation. AARP Foundation and Robert Wood Johnson Foundation: Future of Nursing Campaign for Action. National Conference. Evaluating Breastfeeding Friendliness: A pilot Assessment of Boise Businesses & Organizations. Boise, ID. June 2017

I am currently accepting new patients throughout Idaho and provide care via telehealth and in-person.