Meet Stephanie

As a Clinical Nurse Educator, Stephanie leads education and training across the Stollery to help staff feel more confident and equipped to care for children and youth with mental illness.

While she was completing her master’s, she interviewed Stollery nurses from the inpatient units and Emergency department about caring for kids with mental illness. They hadn’t chosen to work in psychiatry, but they were often the ones supporting children after a suicide attempt, or seeing how chronic illness affects a child’s mental health. “A lot of them said they wanted to help but didn’t feel prepared — even though they were already doing so many things right,” says Stephanie. “That really stuck with me. The work they do is incredibly meaningful, and it’s a big part of why I do what I do now.”

Outside of work, Stephanie’s a potter — she finds working with clay therapeutic, and she enjoys having handmade dishes all over her house. She also weaves, plays squash and spends as much time as she can with her dogs (and her partner too!).

Let’s learn more about Stephanie:

What do you like most about your job? 

I love being able to empower other health-care providers and help bridge the gap between physical and mental health care. It’s about working together to support the whole child.

Do you have a personal connection to the Stollery?

My dad was one of the architects that worked on the Stollery, and when I was a kid, my brother and I each painted one of the tiles you can still find around the Stollery. We did it together when the Hospital was being built. I’m still trying to find my tile though!

Have donor funds impacted the area you work in?

Absolutely. We’ve seen more mental health support being built into the Stollery, which makes a big difference. The inpatient units are still at the Royal Alexandra Hospital, but it’s encouraging to see things shifting. Mental health is health. (Also they fund my position, so thank you!).

Do you have a favourite Stollery event?

I really enjoyed going to the Snowflake Gala when I was a kid.

What is your favourite kid’s book?

I love I Want My Hat Back by Jon Klassen. It’s simple, quirky, and has just the right amount of dark humour. Plus, the illustrations are great!

Do you have a favourite superhero?

I’ve always liked Wolverine. He’s kind of quiet and grumpy, which I relate to as an introvert, but he has a good heart.