Specialty
Behavioral Health
Medical School
Creighton University School of Medicine
Graduate School
Loyola University Chicago (Master of Arts in Medical Sciences)
Residency
University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics
Board Certifications
American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology
Clinical Interests/Additional Certifications
Reproductive/Perinatal Psychiatry and General Psychiatry
Why I Chose Broadlawns
When I was in medical school, the interactions I had with patients struggling with their mental health were incredibly meaningful. The patients I met were inspiring and brought purpose and meaning to my professional life, which led me to choose psychiatry. I have found that meeting people where they are at is so important to psychiatry (and in life), and I am truly honored to have the opportunity to learn about other's life stories and walk alongside patients on their journey to improving their mental health. Additionally, after unexpectedly loving my OB rotation in medical school, I became interested in how to intertwine psychiatry during big life transitions such as bringing a child into this world. This interest grew further during my psychiatry residency when I came to understand that maternal mental health is vital not only for a mother but also her child(ren), leading me to find a specialty interest in reproductive/perinatal psychiatry. Lastly, I chose Broadlawns because their mission and vision fits perfectly with why I went into psychiatry, to serve others regardless of their circumstances.
Hobbies and Interests
Dr. Brooks enjoys reading, podcasts, being outside and spending time with her family. Additionally, Dr. Brooks is thrilled to be back in Des Moines, where she was born and raised and is looking forward to (finally) putting roots down and getting involved with organizations in the community that align with her passions. She currently serves on the Iowa Maternal Quality Care Collaborative Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder Subcommittee and plans to become involved with Mind the Gap Coalition in the near future.