Everyone deserves to get the mental health care that they need, but it is much more difficult for some than others. For Chinese American elders, there is often a cultural stigma around getting that care and language barriers further complicate matters. Mike, who works at USC Verdugo Hills Hospital, steps into that gap, dedicating himself to serving the Chinese American community, and particularly older adults and those covered by Medicaid. This is a particularly vulnerable population, and to reach them, Mike volunteers at adult day health care centers to provide mental health care education and outreach. He talks about neuroanatomy, psychiatric disorders and medications, bringing this crucial information to people in their own language and in a culturally informed way.
This is complex work, and Mike must deploy his clinical expertise, emotional intelligence and creative thinking. He uses storytelling, relatable metaphors and culturally sensitive group discussions to make complicated psychiatric concepts accessible. His innovative problem-solving extends beyond patient education — in his free time, he also mentors psychiatric nurse practitioner students, offering academic guidance and career advice. Mike embodies the nursing ideals of advocacy and patient education, and in his generosity to the next generation of nurses, he is making sure more people will have access to the kind of care that he provides.