REID LUEDECKE, PMHNP-BC, MSN, RN — MENTAL HEALTH NUrse practitioner

Hi, my name is Reid Luedecke, I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner at the Center for Relationships. I am currently seeing clients looking for help in diagnosing, treating, or managing their mental health conditions. I specialize in working with clients struggling with acute mental illness, trauma, and LGBTQ+ issues.  

I graduated from UT Austin with an undergraduate degree in Health Promotion and Health Education, becoming a Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES). I went on to work as an elementary school teacher and then financial research for several years before deciding to pursue a lifelong dream to work in nursing. I then received my registered nursing license and Master’s of Science in Nursing Leadership from UT Austin and went on to work in psychiatric nursing in various settings, including acute-care hospitals, outpatient clinics, and now in a research setting studying new medications for schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.

My primary approach to therapy is relational and client-centered, meaning I believe that the therapist-client relationship is central to the therapeutic process and that each individual client is the expert on their own life. Because my background is in health education and nursing, the interventions I use in therapy are based on a holistic view that integrates both the body and mind. I like to help clients balance their nervous systems, process their emotions, and develop healthy patterns and coping skills to manage their stressors. My theoretical foundation consists of a combination of interpersonal process theory, cognitive behavioral therapy, and acceptance and commitment therapy. This can look like values and goal-setting exercises, meditation or relaxation techniques, and narrative or cognitive processing activities. I am passionate about helping others explore who they are, what they want, and how they can grow and achieve their goals. In my spare time, you can find me playing video games or trying new foods at local Austin restaurants. And if we meet virtually, there is a good chance you will get to hear or see my very loud and affectionate cat, Stowe.