What is your role at UPHS – Marquette?

I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner working in the Outpatient Behavioral Health Clinic at UP Health System-Marquette.

What was your inspiration for getting into healthcare?

I originally planned on becoming a clinical psychologist and graduated with a bachelor's degree in psychology from Northern Michigan University. After graduating, I decided that I wanted to stay in the Marquette area rather than go to graduate school. I wanted to be near my fiancé, so I applied at the Tilden Mine and expected to be hired. Three generations of my family had been Upper Peninsula miners and it felt like a logical decision at the time. I had a conversation with a family member who was a nurse and she told me nursing jobs were plentiful and it was an emerging profession for men. I enrolled in the RN program at NMU as a backup plan. The mining job fell through and I started the RN program that fall.

What’s a typical day like for you? What is it like working in this field?

I treat patients in the Outpatient Behavioral Health Clinic in Marquette. My typical day involves seeing new patients and routine follow-up appointments. I offer both in-person and telemedicine options. My typical day involves diagnosing and treating various psychiatric diagnoses such as Depression, ADHD, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, etc. My treatment includes the prescription of psychotropic medications and supportive psychotherapy. Working in this field is mentally stimulating and one of the greatest things that has happened to me in my life. 

How long have you been employed here? Have you always been in the same position?

In 1996, I started working as an RN in the Oncology Unit. I began working as an RN in the Psychiatric Unit in 1997. In 2005, I completed my Master’s in Nursing from NMU and began my role as a Nurse Practitioner in the Inpatient Psychiatric Unit. In 2013, I completed an Advanced Certification as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner from Wayne State. I have now been working primarily in the outpatient setting for a number of years.

What are some of the big changes you've experienced in this position?

One of the biggest changes was the recent move into our new outpatient clinic last year. Also, since the COVID pandemic, we have been utilizing telemedicine appointment options, which have increased our ability to see patients throughout the Upper Peninsula.

What are some of your interests outside of work? What is your favorite local gem? 

I recently bought an E-bike and have enjoyed riding on the Heritage Trail and down by Lake Superior. I also listen to the Beatles' music daily, hike in nature, spend time with my family, and practice a Vietnamese martial art called Cuong Nhu at Northern Lights Dojo. My favorite local gem is Peter White Library.  

What do you enjoy most about working at UPHS – Marquette?

I enjoy interacting with my coworkers and our clients. It has been one of the highest honors of my life.