Diversity is defined as all characteristics and experiences that define each of us as individuals. This can be a person's race, ethnicity, background, age, gender, or the way they think. Diversity is important in practice and team dynamics because everyone is able to bring in different perspectives and ideas which can potentially help with better decision making. This can also provide a more inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and respected.

Please describe a time when you worked with someone of a different race, gender, sexual orientation, age, and/or cultural background, and how you worked together for the betterment of your patient(s).

 During my training period as a nurse practitioner, I trained under someone who had years of experience, was much older than me, and from a different cultural background. Despite these differences, we were able to collaborate effectively to provide the best care for our patients. There was a time when we had to care for a patient with a similar background as my colleague, and he was able to provide valuable insights into the patient's beliefs and preferences. The patient did not want to have care done by a woman, so I was not able to assist, but with the knowledge I gained from my colleague, I was able to understand why. Regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, age, etc., our main goal is the safety and care of the patient.

To ensure all clients feel valued and respected, I would try to educate myself about different cultural backgrounds, empathize, and actively listen to the clients without judgment. I would make sure to involve them in decision-making and respect their preferences. I would also tailor my approach to meet their needs and take into account their cultural backgrounds, beliefs, and values.

I have worked with a diverse population throughout my career. I'm originally from New Jersey, which is full of diversity! I would be so happy and excited to provide care to a diverse population!!

Share a time when you advocated for your client even when the system around you was not supportive.

There was a time when I was caring for a very elderly woman who stayed at a long-term care facility. She was deteriorating rapidly and had many wounds on her body. Her family did not want to put her on hospice for some reason. The patient was emaciated, barely ate her food, her wounds were not healing, would not talk to anyone, and laid in bed all day. I discussed the situation with my boss and the benefits of going on hospice, and then spoke with the family. I advised that it would be in the best interest of the patient, and after much deliberation, they were convinced! The staff at the long-term care facility said they had tried in the past with no avail and did not want to try asking again, so I took it upon myself to continuously try every time I saw the patient on a weekly basis.

Tiny Tots - Elementary School Kiddos (4 - 12yo), Young Adolescents (13-18yo), Older Adolescents to Adults (19 - 64yo), Oldies but Goodies (65yo+)

Mood Disorders (Depression, Bipolar), Thought Disorders (Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective), Anxiety Disorders, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Disorders of Childhood, Gerontology Psychiatry, Adult Psychiatry, LGBTQAI+ Care, BIPOC Care, Medical Trauma

Full-time; 40 hours

Outside of professional life, I find my mom to be the most inspiring person. She is currently battling stage 4 breast cancer and has gone through many struggles throughout her entire life, yet she is the most positive and resilient person I know. I'm proud to have a mother like her.

Hysterical! You have to laugh at life; it's a good coping skill and it's tons of fun.

Humor is an important part of my practice and the way I engage with clients.

I approach conflict or disagreements at work by first listening actively to understand the different perspectives involved. Then, I strive to communicate openly and respectfully, focusing on finding a mutually beneficial solution through collaboration and compromise.

There isn't much in regards to this matter. I was fortunate to have great leadership teams that I could always go to for help. Being able to collaborate with others is important to me as it helps me develop better treatment plans. The only thing I could think of was limited vacation days.

Yes! I had to watch it because of Adam Sandler! Love anything Adam Sandler! It was a feel-good, wholesome movie that provided great life lessons and fun humor. Leo tries helping the kids through their insecurities and gives them someone to talk to about their feelings as well. I feel that is an age when kids are the most scared because they're on their way to middle school and they're more aware of everything at that age. When they were younger, they started with kindergarten, so they made friends easily since no one judged them. This is the age when it's important to have someone to talk to/lean on about anything, and Leo does that for the kids. Another thing you learn is to try to live your life to the fullest. Leo assumed he had only one year to live and had so many things he wasn't able to do because he spent decades in a classroom (not his fault).