Michael Yassick, RN, NP

"The opportunities in the nursing field are ever expanding, and the nurse practitioner role is no exception. I am tremendously proud to be a part of this profession.”

Tell us about your background in nursing.

Prior to CPEP, I was an RN on the child/adolescent mental health unit. As a nurse practitioner, I will be in the unique position to bridge my previous experience working as a mental health therapist with the clinical training I received at SON. My ultimate goal is to provide mental health services that integrate both psychotherapy and psychopharmacology.

Why mental health?

I have always been a curious person who is fascinated by stories. In the mental health field, I am awarded the honor of learning about the intimate experiences that make people who they are. Few jobs allow for that kind of privilege, and it’s something that I am very grateful for.

Plans after graduation?

I have accepted a position in the Children and Youth Clinic at Genesee Mental Health Center. I am extremely excited as this is where I was previously employed as a therapist before entering nursing school.

What would you tell other nurses who are considering a Nurse Practitioner program?

The opportunities in the nursing field are ever expanding, and the nurse practitioner role is no exception. I am tremendously proud to be a part of this profession. If you are thinking about becoming an NP, I would recommend that you shadow an area of interest to explore if it’s something you could see yourself doing.

What is one takeaway from the program that you will carry forward?

A huge part of the program that attracted me was the fact that my professors were practicing clinicians with years of experience. This was invaluable as it brought a richness and practicality to the topics discussed.

One of the best parts of being at SON was the professors and students I met. I know I will have friends and colleagues well beyond graduation day!

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