News Posts Archive - Page 4 of 20 - Pennsylvania Psychiatric Institute

Mental Health Resources for the Black Community in Central Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania Psychiatric Institute (PPI) is proud to advocate for accessible, inclusive mental health care for all. With the information below, we aim to highlight mental health resources for Black people in central Pennsylvania.

The Association of Black Psychologists Family Care, Community Care and Self Care Tool Kit

abpsi.org
This tool kit is for the Black community, developed by and for people of African ancestry to comfort and inspire in these difficult times. It provides resources to help take care of yourself and each other, strengthening the shared sense of community for the journey ahead.

The Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation

borislhensonfoundation.org
The Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation’s mission is to create a new tradition of care for Black communities, clearing pathways that allow people of color to see what their lives look like on the other side of suffering.

Black Men Heal

blackmenheal.org
Black Men Heal is a nonprofit that provides free mental health treatment individual and group therapy to Men of Color. Their offering to the community is a safe space that provides the opportunity to heal from intergenerational trauma and systemic racism. We pair the men with therapists of color who can attend to their unique cultural experiences.

Black Mental Health Alliance

blackmentalhealth.com
The mission statement of the Black Mental Health Alliance is to develop, promote, and sponsor trusted and culturally relevant educational forums, trainings and referral services that support the health and well-being of Black people and their communities.

Black Women’s Health Alliance of Philadelphia

pbwha.org
The mission of the Black Women’s Health Alliance of Philadelphia is to improve health care outcomes and reduce health disparities for Black and other minority women and their families through advocacy, education, research and support services.

Steve Fund

stevefund.org
The Steve Fund works with colleges and universities, nonprofits, researchers, mental health experts, families and young people to promote programs and strategies that build understanding and assistance for the mental and emotional health of the nation’s young people of color.

Therapy for Black Girls Podcast

therapyforblackgirls.com
The Therapy for Black Girls Podcast is a weekly chat about all things mental health, personal development and all the small decisions we can make to become the best possible versions of ourselves.

If you’d like to learn more about the Pennsylvania Psychiatric Institute’s approach to the Black community’s mental health, please do not hesitate to contact us by phone at 866-746-2496.

We’re committed to providing an inclusive, welcoming space where everyone can access the care and support they need.

Trailblazing Black Pioneers in Mental Health

Celebrating the Legacies of Bebe Moore Campbell, Herman George Canady, and Mamie Phipps Clark

In an era where mental health is increasingly seen as integral to overall well-being, it is essential to acknowledge and celebrate the contributions of Black pioneers in this field. Bebe Moore Campbell, Herman George Canady and Mamie Phipps Clark represent resilience, innovation and advocacy. Their work has profoundly influenced the understanding and approach to mental health, especially within diverse communities. Recognizing their achievements is about giving credit and emphasizing cultural competence – understanding the diverse perspectives and experiences that enrich mental health.

Cultural competence in mental health means understanding, respecting and effectively responding to the needs and values of people from various cultural backgrounds. The legacies of Campbell, Canady and Clark highlight the importance of this understanding. Their work revealed the complex intersection of culture, race and societal factors in mental health. Celebrating their achievements underscores the need for cultural competence in mental health practices, ensuring care is accessible, empathetic and responsive to diverse populations.

Their contributions also remind us of the ongoing challenges and disparities in mental health care for minority communities. Honoring their legacies means committing to their mission: breaking down barriers and fostering an inclusive environment where mental well-being is accessible to all, regardless of racial or cultural background. This celebration is a call to action for culturally competent mental health care.

Bebe Moore Campbell: A Voice for the Unheard

Bebe Moore Campbell, a literary trailblazer, used her talents to address racism, mental health and culture and community resilience. Her books, including “The 72-Hour Hold” and “Sometimes My Mommy Gets Angry,” delve into the psychological impacts of societal issues. Her influence extended beyond literature. As a NAMI Urban Los Angeles co-founder, Campbell became a national figure, revolutionizing mental health care in underserved communities. She tackled the silence bred by stigma, championing the mental health needs of Black people and advocating for spaces where their stories could be shared without judgment.

Learn more about Bebe Moore Campbell.

Herman George Canady: Challenging Bias, Shaping Psychology

Herman George Canady, born in 1901, was a clinical and social psychologist who addressed racial biases in psychological assessments. His master’s thesis, “The Effects of Rapport on the IQ: A Study in Racial Psychology,” offered insights into how the race of test proctors could influence IQ testing outcomes. Canady’s career included significant roles, from chairing the psychology department at West Virginia Collegiate Institute to founding the West Virginia Psychological Association and the Charleston Guidance Clinic. His contributions paved the way for future generations of Black psychologists.

Learn more about Herman George Canady.

Mamie Phipps Clark: A Pillar of Developmental Psychology

Mamie Phipps Clark, a Howard University graduate, conducted revolutionary work on the impact of segregation and racism on Black children’s self-esteem alongside her husband, Kenneth Bancroft Clark. Their “Dolls Test” was essential to their testimony during the Brown v. Board of Education case. Clark’s dissertation, “The Development of Consciousness of Self and the Emergence of Racial Identification in Negro Preschool Children,” is now a classic in developmental psychology. Despite barriers as a Black female psychologist, Clark co-founded the Northside Center for Child Development in Harlem, providing services to minority children and researching racial biases in education.

Learn more about Mamie Phipps Clark.

Through their dedication and groundbreaking work, these pioneers shaped the mental health field and addressed critical social issues. Their stories continue to inspire current mental health practices, emphasizing the importance of diversity, cultural competence, and equitable access to mental health care. As we celebrate their legacies, we are reminded of the need to address racial disparities in mental health care and uphold the inclusivity and cultural sensitivity values these trailblazers championed. Their lives and work remind us that the journey toward a more equitable and understanding society is ongoing, built on the foundations they laid.

Harriet McClintock Marshall: Champion of the Underground Railroad and Steward of Lincoln Cemetery

Black History Month, an annual February celebration, acknowledges the profound impact and contributions of Black people to the United States. Initiated by Carter G. Woodson in 1926 and set in February to coincide with the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass, it has grown into a national acknowledgment of the struggles, achievements and resilience of Black people. This month provides a reflective lens through which we view central Pennsylvanian historical figures like Harriet McClintock Marshall and hallowed grounds in Harrisburg, like the Lincoln Cemetery.

Harriet McClintock Marshall: A Torchbearer of Freedom

In the heart of Harrisburg, a remarkable story of courage and dedication unfolded with the life of Harriet McClintock Marshall. Marshall, born in Harrisburg, in 1840, was a central figure in the local chapter of the Underground Railroad. Her home as well as the church founded by her mother, Wesley Union African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church, served as a haven for those fleeing slavery. Harriet and her husband Elisha, who had escaped from slavery himself, were committed to helping escapees, providing not just shelter but also transportation and essential support.

Their efforts extended beyond the Underground Railroad. The Marshalls were instrumental in erecting a monument at Lincoln Cemetery to honor African American Civil War veterans. This act of remembrance highlights their dedication to their community’s immediate needs and the broader goal of keeping the local Black contributions to the nation’s history.

Lincoln Cemetery: More Than a Resting Place

Lincoln Cemetery, established outside of Harrisburg in 1877, symbolizes the Black legacy in the region. It’s a site where many Black people, including over 90 Black Civil War veterans, have been laid to rest. The cemetery has served as a silent witness to the evolving history of African Americans in Harrisburg, enduring periods of neglect and vandalism yet standing resilient as a testament to the community’s fortitude.

The Intersection of History and Restoration

The challenges faced by Lincoln Cemetery, from vandalism to natural decay, mirror the broader struggles of Black historical preservation. The establishment of Saving Our Ancestors’ Legacy (SOAL) in 2021 marked a pivotal turn in the cemetery’s story, embodying a community-driven effort to reclaim and honor this vital piece of Black heritage. This initiative is about restoration and reconnecting with the past while ensuring these stories continue to enlighten future generations.

The stories of Harriet McClintock Marshall and the Lincoln Cemetery are intertwined narratives of courage, perseverance and unwavering commitment to freedom and equality. As we observe Black History Month, their stories urge us to recognize the depth and breadth of African American contributions to our nation’s history. They remind us of the ongoing journey toward social justice and the importance of preserving such significant chapters of our collective past.

Celebrating Black History Month in Harrisburg

To celebrate Black History Month in Harrisburg, you can:

Visit historic monuments and museums, such as the first African American Monument on PA State Capitol Grounds, “A Gathering at the Crossroads,” and The National Civil War Museum.
Support Black businesses in Harrisburg, which include a variety of restaurants, bars, arts and crafts, contributing to the city’s vibrant culture.
Attend cultural events, like the “Trailblazers: Notable African Americans in Pennsylvania History” exhibit at the Pennsylvania State Capitol, featuring inspiring stories of African American figures.
Experience a theatrical journey exploring the legacy of Black musicians and Harrisburg’s hospitality network that provided them with safe lodging. For more information and tickets, visit the event page.

For more information and other ways to celebrate, you can visit the detailed guide on ExploreHBG.

Congratulations Dr. Passley-Clarke, Vice Chair of Diversity

We are excited to announce that Dr. Janet Passley-Clarke has accepted the Vice Chair of Diversity role for the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health! Dr. Passley-Clarke began her career at Penn State Health in 2017 and holds the role of Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Advanced Practice Manager and Assistant Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health. She earned both a Doctor of Nursing Practice and a PhD. Dr. Passley-Clarke serves as a National Advisor for the American Nurses Association Minority Fellowship Program, where she mentors professionals in minoritized communities pursuing graduate degrees in psychiatry and behavioral health. She is also mentoring a nurse practitioner of diversity at Hamilton Health Center, to foster collaboration between health systems. Recently, she was featured in the Penn State Health News Spotlight, which discussed advanced practice providers (APPs) and the lack of diversity within the ranks at Penn State Health and across the United States. She is coauthoring a book on the challenges experienced by health care professionals who face prejudice from patients and others in the workplace. Dr. Passley-Clarke is an active member of the DEI committee and has assisted in recruiting appropriate diverse providers here at Penn State Health.

Dr. Passley-Clarke’s extensive experiences in health care organizations and interpersonal interactions bring a wealth of knowledge and viewpoints that promote equal opportunity, diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging to the workplace. She is eager to get started in her new role. She plans to involve the PPI team in productive activities addressing complex topics, conveying a forward-thinking mission and vision and implementing creative solutions/initiatives to bring positive changes to our health system. She recognizes the need for respectful discussions about implicit/explicit biases rather than completing annual compliance training that checks a box. Her goal is to develop metrics to measure progress toward meaningful goals and lead the team to address and close the gap in health care disparities.

Advancing Mental Health Care for BIPOC Communities in Central Pennsylvania

The Pennsylvania Psychiatric Institute (PPI) is at the forefront of addressing mental health challenges in the Black, Indigenous and people of color (BIPOC) communities, with Dr. Janet Passley-Clarke leading significant initiatives. With over 25 years in mental health, Dr. Passley-Clarke brings a wealth of experience and insight to her work for the central Pennsylvania community and the people PPI serves.

“Our patient population extends far and wide. We have clients in Dauphin, Cumberland, Columbia, York, Lebanon and Perry counties,” said Passley-Clarke when discussing the wide range of people served by PPI. “Through our telehealth services, we have people from different places across Pennsylvania.”

Passley-Clarke’s role at PPI includes managing advanced practice providers in psychiatry and behavioral health, providing care for adult mental health clients and advocating for diversity, inclusion and equity within the organization. Her dedication to cultural competency in health care is evident, emphasizing the therapeutic value of patients finding culturally similar providers while acknowledging that effective care often transcends ethnicity.

Addressing Unique Challenges and Health Care Disparities

In a recent interview, Dr. Passley-Clarke highlighted the unique challenges facing the BIPOC communities such as communication barriers, language and cultural differences, generational trauma and navigating of the health care system. She discussed the importance of inclusivity in treatment and the need for providers to be aware of biases and microaggressions that could make patients feel undervalued.

From her clinical experience, Passley-Clarke highlighted the benefits of being made aware of the concerns facing the BIPOC community and working with a proactive mental health provider: “You have increased therapeutic value when you’re able to find a provider who is culturally similar to you.”

Based on data provided by the National Institute of Mental Health, nearly one in five U.S. adults live with a mental illness (52.9 million people in 2020). While people of color (POC) have rates of mental health disorders similar to Whites, these disorders are more likely to last longer and result in more significant disability for POC. Most mental illness goes untreated, especially in BIPOC communities. Fifty-two percent of Whites with acute mental illness received mental health services in 2020, compared to 37.1% of Blacks and 35% of Hispanics.

According to the American Psychiatric Association, the following factors can impact the ability of individuals from various ethnic, racial and socioeconomic backgrounds to access mental health treatment:

Insufficient or absence of health insurance coverage
Greater prevalence of stigma associated with mental illness within minority communities
Limited representation of diverse ethnicities and races among mental health care professionals
A shortage of mental health care providers who are culturally sensitive and competent
Challenges arising from language differences
A general mistrust toward the health care system.

PPI addresses these challenges through various means, including hiring diverse staff and offering specialized services and programs. These efforts reflect a commitment to understanding and meeting the needs of the BIPOC communities in central Pennsylvania.

When pairing providers with clients, Passley-Clarke advises looking at their experiences and their understanding of the experiences shared with new clients. In her work at PPI, she has observed this additional level of care resonating with patients, “You want to make sure that that client knows that you are culturally aware.”

Holistic and Comprehensive Care Approach

PPI’s holistic approach addresses mental health and other aspects of patients’ lives that could impact their well-being. She mentioned the role of community health workers like Cristel Woodcock, who assists BIPOC individuals in navigating health care, and the availability of mental health support groups open to all community members.

Moreover, PPI tackles socioeconomic factors by offering financial assistance programs and employing resource coordinators to help with housing, language barriers and access to specialized services. The institute’s commitment to recovery-oriented care involves the patient at every stage of their treatment, ensuring they feel valued and heard.

“As a Penn State enterprise, we can look at care beyond what we have at PPI. If our patients need more specific or specialized services, we can access it from entities as the client’s need dictates.” Stressing the importance of the relationship between providers and patients, Passley-Clarke said, “Sometimes that just means picking up the phone and being their advocate” and securing the resources they need to improve their mental health.

Empowering Patients and Embracing Community

Dr. Passley-Clarke advised BIPOC individuals who are hesitant about seeking mental health treatment to reach out and seek support, emphasizing the importance of taking that first step toward mental health stability. PPI’s efforts in staff education and training, diverse program offerings and patient-specific care demonstrate a deep commitment to serving and empowering the BIPOC communities.

Advising on the first step, Passley-Clarke emphasized, “Reach out to someone. It doesn’t matter who that person is. But reaching out is important.”

With a focus on inclusivity, representation and comprehensive care, PPI and Dr. Janet Passley-Clarke play a critical role in advancing mental health care for BIPOC communities in central Pennsylvania. Their dedication to evolving and meeting the changing needs of the region’s diverse community sets a benchmark in behavioral health services.

If you need help, please call the PPI Admissions Department at 717-782-6493 or 866-746-2496. The Admissions Department is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

The Power of Dialectical Behavior Therapy at PPI

In the heart of central Pennsylvania, the Pennsylvania Psychiatric Institute (PPI) is leading a transformative approach to mental health through Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). This program is not just therapy but a beacon of hope for those battling intense emotional struggles. In an interview with Shana Rivera, Clinical Supervisor of DBT at PPI, the importance of this program to the residents of the Harrisburg area was explained.

The Essence of DBT

Dialectical behavior therapy, as Rivera explains, is rooted in the concept that two opposites can exist simultaneously, and by finding synthesis in them, practitioners can help clients regulate their emotions more effectively and improve their quality of life. Initially developed by Marsha Lineman while researching treatments for chronic suicidality and non-suicidal self-injury, DBT at PPI has evolved into a lifeline for those grappling with various mental health challenges. It combines the rigors of behavioral modification with the validation and reflection of the humanistic approach, offering a unique blend of acceptance and change.

“With DBT, we modify behavior,” said Rivera, “by teaching our clients skills for balancing reason and emotion and cultivating effective discernment and self-awareness. The ultimate goal is to help them live their lives more effectively.”

The DBT Program at PPI

Pennsylvania Psychiatric Institute’s DBT program distinguishes itself in central Pennsylvania. It’s a meticulously structured 15-week intensive outpatient program, including individual therapy sessions, group skills training, weekly consultation team meeting, and a novel feature – an ‘on-call’ coaching service available every day from 8 a.m. to midnight.

“The core principles behind the program, the idea of DBT as an evidence-based practice, includes skills training in mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation and interpersonal effectiveness,” said Rivera.

The treatment goals for clients in DBT include the development of:

Interpersonal and communication skills
The ability to tolerate distress
The ability to understand, name and regulate emotions
Self-awareness

The Challenge and Commitment

Embracing this unique treatment option is a journey that demands commitment. Rivera emphasizes the importance of patient dedication, stating that the therapy’s effectiveness hinges on active participation and the willingness to embrace change. The program’s rigorous nature includes daily diary card keeping, regular skill application and a steadfast commitment to attending sessions.

“It’s going to require that you fill out a diary card every single day,” said Rivera, concerning the commitment required to complete the DBT program at PPI. “That you are trying to identify your emotions daily. That you are doing homework 98% of the time. The homework is not like writing essays. It is you going home, practicing applying the skill in your natural environment and then returning so we can troubleshoot its effectiveness.”

Dialectical behavior therapy classes at PPI are offered on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays in the morning from 9 a.m.-Noon or in the afternoon from 12:30-3:30 p.m. Individual sessions are offered one time per week for 60 minutes and coaching calls are available to individuals who are enrolled in any of PPI’s DBT programs outside of business hours.

Transformative Impact

Rivera shares heartening success stories, like a patient who overcame severe suicidal tendencies to find a renewed zest for life, eventually returning to professional work and exploring her passion for art. These stories are testaments to DBT’s transformative power, underscoring its efficacy in not just managing mental illness but enabling individuals to lead fulfilling lives.

Rivera recounts, “She developed not just an increased insight, knowing what triggers her, but she was also able to work through and develop skills to build a productive life. She ended up being able to return to work full-time and obtain a certification in peer support to share her lived experience of healing with others.”

DBT’s Role in the Community

DBT at PPI is more than a treatment; it’s a community service. It offers a comprehensive pathway for those dealing with emotional dysregulation and mental health disorders, providing them with tools for a better life. The program’s inclusivity and adaptability make it a crucial resource for central Pennsylvania residents seeking mental wellness.

Rivera emphasizes, “DBT can benefit anyone. Don’t question it. Reach out. We will help triage anyone who is thinking of reaching out for help, we can guide you to the appropriate treatment.”

For an in-depth discussion about how DBT can help you reach your goals, call 717-782-6515.

A Vision for the Future

As DBT evolves at PPI, Rivera envisions expanding services to encompass individualized trauma therapy and a more robust aftercare support system. This vision aligns with PPI’s commitment to holistic care, recognizing the diverse needs of its community.

At PPI, Dialectical Behavior Therapy is more than a clinical program; it’s a journey toward self-awareness, emotional resilience and personal growth. As Rivera and the team continue to break new ground, they are not just treating conditions but changing lives, one session at a time, in central Pennsylvania.

Who does the DBT program at PPI treat?

Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) is a form of therapy that was developed for individuals diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) or individuals who have strong traits of this diagnosis. DBT has also been utilized to treat individuals with drug and alcohol addictions, eating disorders and for pain management. Individuals can attend the DBT program if they are at least 18 years old and are not currently attending high school. Individuals may attend college or work while attending the program; however, full-time employment and a full college course are not recommended while attending the program, as it is intensive.

Contact the admissions department at 717-782-6493 to learn more.

Martin Luther King, Jr., National Day of Service

Honoring Legacy through Action

Martin Luther King Jr. Day is more than a celebration of Dr. King’s life and legacy. It’s a day to honor his vision of freedom, justice, equality and a better future for all through active service. On a summer day in 1963, Dr. King shared his dream of a nation where justice, freedom, peace and opportunity prevail, standing against oppression, violence and poverty.

Despite facing numerous challenges, his commitment to nonviolent protest and civil disobedience led to significant changes in our society.

Today, the MLK Day of Service embodies this spirit, encouraging everyone to contribute to their communities. It’s the only federal holiday designated as a National Day of Service, reflecting that active citizenship is vital to community improvement. By participating in service projects, we honor Dr. King’s legacy, working toward a society where respect and equality are not just ideals but realities for all, regardless of race, ability, religion or background.

Understanding and Navigating the Holiday Blues

The holiday season is traditionally associated with joy and celebration, yet for many, it can also usher in stress, sadness and depression. Nikki Fogle, a Licensed Counselor and Unit Therapist at Pennsylvania Psychiatric Institute (PPI), sheds light on the phenomenon known as the “Holiday Blues” and offers guidance on managing these feelings.

“The Holiday Blues consist of feelings of depression, sadness, loneliness or can be noticed as more anxiety or fatigue that are exacerbated during, or appear relative to, the holidays,” explains Fogle. These emotions, though temporary, are intimately linked to this period.

Fogle highlights that the holiday blues manifest through both emotional and physical symptoms. “When it comes to mood, typically there’s feeling of angst, being personally frustrated, noticing more stress or anxiety, feeling often tired or edgy and not knowing why, feeling more depressed and unmotivated or noticing an increase in sadness. Physically, we see changes in behavior patterns like an increase in headaches, more isolation, not answering the phone, over or under eating and drinking or smoking more.”

In various forms, loss is frequently at the root of these feelings. “Loss doesn’t necessarily mean that of a loved one. It can also mean loss of support or a breakup or nonconventional loss, such as: loss of function due to a medical condition, loss of expectations or loss of finances,” notes Fogle.

Discussing susceptibility, Fogle mentions, “If someone already has a mental health illness, they can be predisposed to notice an increase, in frequency or severity of symptoms. Major life changes that happen prior to the holidays, like significant losses of people or pets, relationship statuses, or even the loss of a job or big move can also predispose someone. And it’s not always a negative experience that can bring about the blues. Sometimes having a baby – which is a wonderful thing – can exacerbate the blues for some due to the process of dealing with that change.”

To help cope with the Holiday Blues, consider the following options:

Proactive Social Engagement
If you’re isolating, actively seek social connections. Engaging in community activities or volunteering can also be beneficial.

Boundary Setting
Knowing your limits is essential, and it’s okay to decline invitations or leave events early for your well-being.

Volunteering and Charity
Participating in community service can be a meaningful way to connect with others and reduce feelings of loneliness.

Moderating Social Media Usage
Social media can often distort reality. Reducing its use can help focus on genuine connections and alleviate stress.

Seeking Support
If stress, depression or anxiety persist, consider discussing your feelings with a therapist or someone you trust.

Honoring Lost Loved Ones
Find ways to remember and honor those you’ve lost during the holidays. Sharing memories can enrich your holiday experience.

Accepting Imperfection
Remember, it’s okay not to have a perfect holiday. The season is about connections, not perfection.

Additionally, Fogle emphasizes the importance of self-care and realistic expectations during the holidays. It is important to create quiet time for yourself and understand that saying no is acceptable. Be mindful of your resources, including time, energy and finances.

Navigating family dynamics can also be challenging. If family interactions are a trigger, plan to maintain your safety. Set limits on your time and substance intake and seek support if needed.

While Holiday Blues can appear similar to seasonal affective disorder, they are distinct. The Holiday Blues typically dissipate after the holiday season, while SAD is related to changes in daylight and may persist longer.

At PPI, Fogle, with her extensive experience spanning over two decades, continues to provide valuable insights and support as part of the multidisciplinary treatment team.

For those struggling with suicidal thoughts, immediate help is available through the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255. For support in managing stress and anxiety, or to make an appointment, contact PPI at 717-782-6493.

Nurse Testimonial: Jeff Kahler

Jeff has been with PPI since July 2015. He spent years in customer service/quality control while managing a carpet cleaning company in Arizona. Jeff states, “I believe customer service translates very well to nursing. Foundationally, we must be respectful of our patients, even when they are going through a difficult stretch. Try to provide a sense of calm in the middle of everything going on. I like to give my team members a sense that we will get through this moment.”

Jeff recommends taking time to catch your breath. Take a walk-off unit for a break. Be mindful and remember we are all one chemical imbalance or a bad moment away from being a patient at PPI. Talk to your team. Ask any and every question.

My biggest inspiration for working at PPI is the relationship I have with other staff members, Paul and Nikki (therapists). The professional way they help the locums get acclimated quickly when they join PPI. And how they help turn a patient in complete “failure to thrive” mode, at times catatonic, and return them to their life and family. I am proud to be part of a team that quickly understands where a patient may be struggling in the progress of their treatment. We all work together when the unit acuity triggers past trauma in staff. I am thankful to Kim, for somehow managing the “challenges” we deal with and still finding time to sit down with staff and help them process a difficult situation. In 2024, Jeff will be retiring to work part-time in Mobile Psych Nursing.

I’m not social. I’m not openly conversational. I’m a private person. I have difficulty speaking in front of others; since becoming a nurse in 2015, I’ve had to push myself beyond those self-imposed barriers. I’m thankful that I was inspired to go back to school at 50 to become a RN. And that when a patient is upset and yelling (at staff or me), I’m thankful and remain mindful that it’s almost never about us/me. It’s about their loss of control, a place in life, losing their phone, their bed, immediate contact with family, and their ability to come and go. This place, our place here, we need to remember as caregivers, it’s not about us. It’s about them.

I leave you with these words: “How can I help you?”

Nurse Testimonial: Mary Crist

Mary has worked at PPI for 12 years as a medication and treatment nurse. Mary explains she wanted to be a nurse since she was six years old and be able to take care of people. Mary has a cousin who is a nurse anesthetist, and always enjoyed listening to her stories. Mary states, “In 7th and 8th grade, I was a hospital volunteer at Holy Spirit Hospital. And for some reason, I always found it fascinating to read the medical books in our house.”

For someone starting a nursing career at PPI, Mary believes that we all bring something different to the table because of where we are in our lives. Our experiences and education are valuable in dealing with the different types of patients we encounter. “Fortunately, through the years at PPI, I have been very blessed to have had some excellent mentors, although many no longer work here. I asked a lot of questions in the beginning, and I’m sure I drove some of them crazy, but they were very patient and kind. I’m still learning every day and appreciate all my co-workers who share their knowledge and experiences.

Coming from mostly med-surg, with some long-term care and acute rehab nursing, being a psychiatric nurse was very different, almost like learning another language. It really helped me learn about another type of illness. I always had the mindset of medical issues and did not give much thought to mental illness. It brought me full circle to understand the person as a whole.”

Archives: News Posts