About Jacqueline Mental health experts are a vital part of health care – because mental wellness affects physical health, too.  But stigmas surrounding mental health make it difficult for many people to seek care. Jacqueline Albiez, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, understands this firsthand. “Mental health has always fascinated me,” she says. “I saw an underserved population with a harsh stigma. I wanted to be an advocate for those in need, to help break any stigmas against mental illness and normalize mental health treatment.” To do this, Jacqueline chose a nursing career while in high school. “I was drawn toward the medical field with the desire to help others. I shadowed different professions, and my heart told me to pursue nursing.” Jacqueline earned her master’s degree in nursing in psychiatric mental health at Indiana Wesleyan University and has been part of the Beacon family since 2011. “I saw an organization that works to help patients and see them succeed in their care,” she says. This is incredibly important for mental health patients. In her role, Jacqueline is both a medical professional and an advocate. Jacqueline talks with individuals to understand their symptoms and history, diagnoses them and provides appropriate medications and therapy. She has also learned how important listening to patients is, and how no detail is trivial. “I am flexible to provide the best care possible. Patient safety is a priority. I never make assumptions, and patients always have my support.” In her own words Who is or was the most influential person/role model in your life?  My parents. They both worked hard to provide a loving and supportive home. They taught me that nothing is given to you and that you have to work hard for what you want. They instilled the values of being kind, caring and humble and taught me that I should always apply myself. What was your first job growing up? What do you remember about it?  Assisting my dad when he was catering for parties. I remember watching how hard he worked, the time and details he put into the food he crafted to provide an excellent experience to those he served. He not only prepared and served elegant meals, but his creations also brought happiness and exceptional experiences to those he cooked for. What are your hobbies, interests?  I love reading, music, board games, hiking, gardening, cooking, baking and crafts. I also have a passion for aviation and love attending air shows. If you could sit down to dinner with anyone, alive or deceased, who would it be and why?  My father. He passed away last year, and I would do anything to spend a few more precious moments together. In addition to medicine, what are you passionate about?  My family, animals and doing what I can to make the world a better place, even if that’s through small actions.