About Wanderlust Psychiatry

Welcome to Wanderlust Psychiatry

Why Wanderlust Psychiatry?

Wanderlust Psychiatry was created with the belief that caring for your mental health should feel personal, collaborative, and empowering.

Wanderlust Psychiatry is rooted in the belief that we are always evolving, and healing is a kind of journey, both inward and outward.

Wanderlust traditionally means “a strong desire to travel.” For me, it’s a symbol of staying curious: about the world, about others, and about ourselves. Whether I’m at home or abroad (always in a secure, private location), I bring that same curiosity to my work. I believe real change begins when we stop judging ourselves and start exploring who we are and what we truly need.

We are fully inclusive and affirming of all care. Neurodivergent? LGBTQ+? Disabled? We want you to feel safe here. This practice is built to honor your experiences and identity.

Hi, I’m Carli VanDenHouten

Founder of Wanderlust Psychiatry

Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)

As a psychiatric nurse practitioner with a background in psychology, nursing, and nearly 20 years of experience, I’ve spent my career walking alongside adults through times of transition, challenge, and growth. I offer psychiatric medication management with a holistic lens and am happy to incorporate supplements or integrative approaches when desired.

My aim is to empower you to reach your goals. I am here to provide you with ideas, insight, and education as we work together. My approach is centered on a holistic, whole-person perspective. I am also very happy to include integrative, complementary practices into our treatment plans.

Working with me

What I Believe About Mental Health Care

You don’t need to prove you’re struggling “enough” to deserve help.
You don’t need to have the perfect words to explain how you feel.
You don’t need to know exactly what’s wrong.

You just need to show up—and I’ll meet you there.

My goal is to create a space where you feel safe to be yourself. That might mean laughing during sessions, pausing when things feel hard, or reworking a treatment plan that’s just not working for you. I bring professional expertise, evidence-based practices, and compassion—but most importantly, I bring respect for your experience.

Who I Work With

Wanderlust Psychiatry is a 100% virtual practice serving adults, and occasionally teens, in Oregon and Washington.

I work especially well with folks who are often overlooked or misunderstood in traditional mental health care—those who are neurodivergent, those with developmental disabilities, and members of the LGBTQ+ community. Whoever you are, you’re welcome here, and you don’t have to mask anything.

Our Mission

Wanderlust Psychiatry’s Mission

At Wanderlust Psychiatry, we offer compassionate, holistic psychiatric care to support patient recovery and wellness. We believe mental health care should feel personal, collaborative, and empowering.

We offer adequate time at each appointment, convenient scheduling flexibility, and expertise using a holistic whole-person approach to mental health care. When stressful life circumstances occur or you’re ready for medication changes, you can count on us being there. No one should have to suffer for months waiting to see a provider to try a different medication. We’re passionate about easing suffering and supporting healing, recovery and improved wellness.

Our Values

Inclusivity

I am committed to creating a safe and respectful environment for all patients. I believe in promoting diversity and inclusivity in our communities.

Integrity

I work to maintain the highest ethical standards in practice and upholding honesty, fairness, and accountability is essential.

Empowerment

I empower patients to take an active role in their care, promoting self-determination and independence.

Patient-Centered Care

I work to prioritize the unique needs and experiences of each patient, fostering a collaborative and therapeutic relationship.

Compassion and Empathy

I strive to demonstrate compassion and empathy for patients' struggles, creating a safe space for open communication and healing.

Scientific Research

I am committed to staying up to date with the latest evidence-based practices, contributing to the advancement of knowledge in mental health.

Transparency

I aim to provide accurate, clear, and understandable information for patients as a cornerstone of my practice.

Collaboration

I work in a collaborative environment with other healthcare professionals and agencies to enhance patient outcomes.

Contact Wanderlust Psychiatry

Ready to Get Started?

I know taking the first step can be intimidating—but if you’ve made it this far, you’re already on your way. If you’re ready for a psychiatry experience that’s collaborative, flexible, and actually human, I’d love to hear from you.