In her journey from bedside nurse to Psych-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (NP), Kelsey Holstein found her true calling in helping patients manage their mental health alongside their physical health. After witnessing patients struggle with undiagnosed or mismanaged mental health issues, Holstein decided to pursue a career in psychiatry to make a difference in people's lives.
Before becoming a Psych-Mental Health NP, Holstein worked as a surgical nurse in Ohio and later in California, where she saw firsthand the impact of mental health on physical well-being. Her interest in psychology and psychiatry led her to pursue a career as a nurse practitioner specializing in mental health.
The Doctor of Nursing Practice in Psych-Mental Health NP program at UC prepared Holstein for her current role by providing her with the knowledge and skills necessary to assess, diagnose, and treat patients with mental illnesses. The program also emphasized the importance of therapy, counseling, and psychoeducation in the recovery process.
Now, as a Psych-Mental Health NP working for a private practice, Holstein offers mental health services via telehealth to patients in Colorado and Massachusetts. She finds the most rewarding part of her job to be witnessing clients' progress in their recovery journey, while also acknowledging the challenges of limited funding and access to mental health care.
Overall, Holstein's experience highlights the importance of addressing mental health issues in conjunction with physical health and the significant impact Psych-Mental Health NPs can have on improving the quality of life for their clients. If you are interested in learning more about UC's Psych-Mental Health NP programs, visit their website for additional information.