John Yates
Nurse Practitioner in Psychiatry
I’m not your typical provider.
That’s a good thing.
My vision
Welcome to Storyguide Mental Health, a sanctuary where your narrative is not only acknowledged, but deeply respected. I understand that embarking on this journey might have taken a substantial amount of effort and courage. Whether you found your way here independently or were guided by a caring person in your life, acknowledging the need for assistance is often the bravest and most challenging step.
My name is John, a seasoned professional who has devoted over two decades to the field of Emergency Medicine, where I was privileged to witness the resilience of the human spirit in times of immense crisis. Throughout my tenure, I discovered the profound fulfillment that comes from being a compassionate listener and guide during people’s moments of vulnerability, helping them navigate through their personal stories of trials, triumphs, and transformations.
As I transition into this ensuing phase of my career, I extend an invitation to you to embark on a holistic and integrative journey towards mental wellness. Drawing inspiration from Viktor Frankl’s profound development of logotherapy, I firmly believe in the transformative power of finding purpose and meaning in every chapter of one’s life.
In my role as your mental wellness guide, I am committed to partnering with you to sculpt the healthiest version of your narrative, where every facet of your life and history is given the attention and respect it deserves. Together, we will venture beyond surface symptoms, seeking to uncover and address the root causes of your challenges, intertwining therapy with recommendations encompassing various spheres of your life: sleep, diet, exercise, and belief patterns you may hold.
Your individualized care plan will be evidence-based and cost-effective, shaped with your invaluable input and consent. I highly advocate the inclusion of a support person - a family member or close friend - in your journey to amplify the prospects of your success. Rest assured, if you’re navigating this path solo, we will work diligently to build a supportive framework around you.
As we collaborate to craft your personalized roadmap to mental wellness, potentially incorporating supplements, therapy, diet recommendations, and prescription medication where necessary, my approach will always echo the ethos of “starting low and going slow.” I am here to facilitate a space where you feel seen, heard, and valued, leaving each appointment with a clear and reasonable action plan and time frame.
“…everything can be taken from a man but one thing: the last of the human freedoms- to choose one’s attitude in any given set of circumstances, to choose one’s own way.”
— Viktor E. Frankl
Beyond the Office
I have been married to my high school sweetheart for 25 years and am the proud father of three adult children. Although my home is now in Minneapolis, Minnesota, I continue to serve patients in both Minnesota and Colorado, regularly traveling between the two states.
Outside of mental health, I have always been someone who learns best by doing. I enjoy diving deeply into new interests, whether that means developing a new clinical skill, restoring a vintage project, or picking up an entirely new hobby. Lately, you'll most likely find me sailing on one of Minnesota's lakes, learning the art of bird watching, cycling, skiing, or traveling with my wife. I remain a lifelong learner and am continually exploring new ideas and experiences that enrich both my personal life and my work as a psychiatric provider.
When we're not traveling, my wife and I enjoy exploring local coffee shops, breweries, farmers markets, and restaurants, drawing inspiration from the communities we visit along the way.