May 2022
Maleah
Linden
Highland Community College
Freeport
,
IL
United States

 

 

 

Maleah engaged in therapeutic relationships, by making sure individuals knew their worth, and that they were respected, and believed in.
I was deeply touched by the interactions between Maleah and various patients during her in-patient Psychiatric clinicals in the Fall of 2021. Her deep compassion for those dealing with mental illness and substance use disorder was evident as she effortlessly and eagerly engaged in therapeutic interactions with several adolescent and adult individuals. I observed her positive patient connections, was privileged to listen in on a few of the conversations had, as well as read through her detailed clinical assignments, all of which demonstrate just how special this student nurse is. Maleah engaged in therapeutic relationships, by making sure individuals knew their worth, and that they were respected, and believed in. She praised each for their bravery in telling their stories, for their willingness to seek assistance, and reminded them to never give up! Maleah described the importance of her Psychiatric nursing clinicals as the perfect opportunity for students to witness the desperate need in mental health care, specifically regarding the stigma, and lack of treatment associated with it. This student expressed her gratitude for her “amazing learning experiences,” in both in-patient & out-patient facilities. She praised nursing and therapy staff members who so warmly welcomed and allowed her to learn, grow, and gain in her confidence as well as open her eyes and heart to a field that may indeed be her future calling. Maleah is a wonderful example of what advocacy is! She entirely supported her patients, ensuring their voices were heard and their life stories respected. She spoke openly regarding her concerns about bringing awareness to mental illness. I have no doubt that Maleah’s presence during her Psychiatric clinicals had a positive and lasting impact on those she partnered with. She represented Highland and our program in such a positive light. I am immensely proud of this student!