Trail Blazers
LaQuel Pressley,
Resident
What was your path to mental healthcare?
My path to mental healthcare has been long and varying. I got my initial bachelor's degree in Counseling psychology after starting school for mechanical engineering. I was not able to work in mental healthcare at that time and then got a degree in nursing and worked with children in ICU and ER settings. I noticed all of the mental health challenges of the people I was caring for as well as those of my family. When I decided to get a graduate degree, mental health was calling me and that is when I became a doctorate prepared PMHNP. I am now a PMHNP resident.
How will this scholarship help you?
Being a new graduate in a residency program, I have a lot to learn and also live on a limited income. This scholarship will help me to continue to learn so I can be a good provider. It will help me meet more people that can assist me as I embark on this lifelong journey to help humanity live healthier, happier lives.
What are your academic and/or career goals?
My career goals are to treat in the community setting. I am hoping to get some experience during my residency in the inpatient arena. Since most people dealing with mental health issues are in the community, I feel I can be of most service in the community.
What does “exceptional patient care” mean to you?
Exceptional patient care means treating my patients with the care and concern that I would a member of my family. This includes educating, counseling, finding the best options for them even if it is hard and listening to them. I know that this will take time and that our current healthcare systems aren't always set up to allow for this time and that is why staying educated, updated and informed will help me achieve this.