Community Leaders
Brandy Colvin,
Nurse Practitioner
What was your path to mental healthcare?
I started my career in healthcare as a CNA almost 20 years ago. From there, I attended nursing school as a single mother. Upon graduation, I worked in women's health nursing before attending graduate school and achieving dual certification as an FNP and PMHNP. I am currently employed in my first year as a PMHNP and am not a student but feel I should be considered for the scholarship as I have such a strong desire to develop my knowledge in the field. While not technically a student, as a new nurse practitioner, I could be considered to have similar education to a fellow who wishes to increase their knowledge and competence.
How will this scholarship help you?
This scholarship will help me to develop further expertise in psychiatry and to network with colleagues from across the nation. I am just starting my career and am not currently in a financial position to attend more than one conference this year. The opportunity would assist me in the goal of seeking further support as a new practitioner.
What are your academic and/or career goals?
My career goal is to provide patient-centered and compassionate care to those with mental health disorders. I live in a rural state with a high suicide rate compared to the nation. The high numbers are associated with a lack of providers and a tendency for residents who are suffering to do so in silence due to continued misunderstanding and stigma associated with mental illness. I aim to work within the Montana communities both as an advocate for mental health and as a change-maker within the workings of government to promote programs.
What does “exceptional patient care” mean to you?
Exceptional patient care is care that is based upon evidence-based practice while also incorporating the needs, wants, and goals of the patient. Offering patient-centered care, developing trusting relationships, and operating from a position of unconditional positive regard are the keys to exceptional care in my opinion.