Jami Van Brocklin
Herzing Alumni
Alumni Spotlight
Across the world of healthcare, where every patient encounter can present a unique challenge, Jami Van Brocklin stands as an example of compassionate, holistic care. Graduating from Herzing University’s Kenosha campus with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree in August 2020, Jami's journey to becoming a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner has been characterized by resilience, dedication and a profound commitment to overall patient well-being.
Jami serves as a Behavioral Health Medical Professional specializing in psychiatric mental health at an integrative health, recovery, and wellness clinic based in Tucson, AZ. In this role, Jami doesn't just see patients; she provides comprehensive, holistic care that encompasses medical, psychiatric, addiction and mental health services under one roof.
In her role, Jami's days are far from routine. From conducting psychiatric evaluations to facilitating medication reviews and detox programs, her work spans a wide spectrum of mental health care. However, her favorite aspect of the job lies in thoroughly evaluating patients, diving deep into their medical history and exploring treatments like supplements, fitness, and nutrition. This approach reflects her long-held belief in treating the whole person, not just their symptoms.
“My time at Herzing University and in the two decades I’ve spent as a nurse helped lay the foundation for everything I am doing today,” said Van Brocklin. “I view every patient as unique, and I believe in providing tailored care. True healing begins with understanding the root cause of a patient's condition, not simply glancing at the surface symptoms.”
With unwavering determination, Jami navigates the delicate process of detoxifying patients who have become dependent on medications, often prescribed due to past practices that prioritized quick fixes over sustainable solutions. For Jami, this uphill battle underscores the importance of responsible prescribing and the need for nursing professionals who are compassionate and seek holistic solutions to mental health care.
“Addressing the overreliance on prescription drugs is crucial for patient well-being,” reflected Van Brocklin. “By advocating for alternative treatments and trauma-informed care, we can break the cycle of dependency and empower individuals to reclaim control over their lives. It’s something that has always been important to me.”
Jami's journey into healthcare began with a childhood fascination with both science and medicine. She was influenced by both medicine and law enforcement and developed a keen interest in forensic science and human anatomy. Despite facing personal challenges along the way, including a high-risk pregnancy and career detours, Jami's resolve to pursue nursing remained unshaken. She embarked on a path that saw her become a licensed practical nurse (LPN) and later earned both her Bachelor and Master's degrees in Nursing.
“My experiences have shaped me into the healthcare provider I am today,” Van Brocklin said of her journey. “Each obstacle and triumph has strengthened my resolve to advocate for others through patient-centered care.”
As a proponent of continuous learning and professional development, Jami emphasizes the importance of staying on the cutting edge of evolving medical practices and technologies. She believes that healthcare providers must continually adapt and grow to meet the ever-changing needs of patients and advancements in technology and knowledge in the industry. For Jami, compassion, empathy and a commitment to lifelong learning are the hallmarks of effective healthcare delivery.
“Holistic, trauma-informed care needs to become the standard in mental health treatment,” Van Brocklin explained. “By prioritizing patient well-being and embracing innovative approaches, we can create a healthcare system that truly serves and empowers individuals.”
Throughout her remarkable journey in healthcare, Jami Van Brocklin has gleaned invaluable lessons and insights that continue to shape her practice and inform her vision for the future. Reflecting on her experiences, Jami offers advice for aspiring nurses and healthcare professionals alike.
"Compassion isn't just a trait that great nurses have; it's the cornerstone of effective healthcare and something every nurse needs to have,” said Van Brocklin. “If you want to help people and if you are truly motivated to provide care, start from a point of compassion. Behind any symptom or diagnosis is a beating heart. There’s a mind at work that might be facing a lot of things you don’t see right away. Empathy is the most powerful tool you have — never lose touch with that.”