Meet the Newest Member of Chrysalis Center's Psychiatric Team

Earlier this year, Chrysalis Center welcomed the newest member of our psychiatric team, Alison Roller-Alling, DNP, PMHNP-BC, to the practice. Since then, Alison has been providing individualized and patient-centered medication management services to patients across the lifespan, from young children to older adults. Choosing the right medication provider is an important decision, so we decided to sit down with Alison to get a clearer picture of who she is and what treatment under her care looks like. Here is what we found: 

Why did you decide to go into behavioral healthcare? 

My path into behavioral healthcare has been shaped by both my professional experiences and my belief in the importance of supporting and empowering others to reach their full potential. I originally studied International Development and Social Change, which led me to work in community nonprofit organizations focused on fundraising, advocacy, and supporting underrepresented populations. 

As I began working directly with children and families in nonprofit organizations and school systems, I discovered a passion for helping individuals navigate emotional, behavioral, and life challenges. This experience inspired me to pursue a career in mental and behavioral healthcare. 

I transitioned into nursing, gaining extensive experience caring for individuals with complex medical and psychiatric needs in acute care and behavioral health settings. These experiences reinforced my belief that mental health is deeply connected to physical health, and that compassionate, evidence-based care can make a meaningful difference in people's lives. 

What are some of your specialties or areas of interest? 

I enjoy working with individuals across the lifespan and have a broad interest in treating a wide range of mental health conditions. I recognize the close relationship between psychiatric, medical, and substance use disorders and strive to provide care that addresses the whole person. 

Because of my early work with children and families experiencing crisis, I have a particular interest in early intervention, trauma-informed care, and supporting individuals through developmental transitions. I believe that timely support can build resilience, improve long-term outcomes, and help individuals and families navigate life's challenges with greater confidence. 

How would you describe your treatment style? 

My treatment approach is collaborative, compassionate, and patient-centered. I believe every person deserves to feel heard, respected, and actively involved in decisions about their care. I emphasize clear communication, motivational interviewing, and shared decision-making to help clients understand their treatment options and choose the approach that best aligns with their goals and values. Whether treatment includes medication, psychotherapy, behavioral strategies, or a combination of approaches, my goal is to create a safe, supportive therapeutic environment where clients feel empowered to make meaningful progress toward improved mental health and overall well-being. 

What does an intake appointment with you look like? 

The initial intake appointment is a comprehensive evaluation designed to understand your unique concerns, symptoms, and treatment goals. Together, we'll discuss what has brought you to seek care, how your symptoms are affecting your daily life, and review your medical, psychiatric, social, and family history. 

We'll identify the situations, behaviors, and stressors contributing to your concerns and develop an individualized treatment plan that reflects your needs and preferences. Depending on your goals, treatment may include medication management, psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, or non-pharmacologic strategies. 

For any medication recommendations, we'll review your diagnosis, discuss available treatment options, and carefully go over the potential benefits, risks, and side effects so you can make informed decisions about your care. 

What does ongoing treatment with you look like? 

Follow-up appointments focus on monitoring your progress and supporting your continued growth and well-being. Together, we'll assess how you're feeling emotionally, mentally, and physically, evaluate how treatment is working, and make adjustments as needed. 

Our visits may include medication management, psychotherapy, psychoeducation, and discussion of evidence-based non-pharmacologic strategies to help improve daily functioning and quality of life. When appropriate and aligned with your treatment goals, we may also discuss pharmacogenomic (genetic) testing as an optional tool to help guide medication selection. 

Throughout treatment, I strive to build a collaborative therapeutic relationship where you feel supported, informed, and empowered as we work toward your mental health goals together.