Michael Burns

Before graduating as a nurse, I started my healthcare career as a certified nursing assistant (CNA) at a skilled nursing facility that is part of Azalea Trace, a retirement community. I have been working there for almost 7 years, but I went PRN after accepting a position at Ascension Sacred Heart where I worked med-surg for one year. Currently, I am employed part-time at the Pavilion in HCA Florida West Hospital which specializes in inpatient mental health services. It has been beneficial for my experience learning to care for a plethora of mental health disorders including depression, anxiety, suicidal ideations, schizophrenia, bipolar, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), substance abuse, etc.
While working on my Bachelor of Science in Nursing, I worked at the Friary, a substance abuse rehabilitation center. This is where I found my calling. After being a part of many support groups around Pensacola, substance abuse and mental health became a passion of mine. I finally found the University of South Alabama Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program which I am currently enrolled. My plan is to follow-up with the post-graduate certificate subspecialty of Addictions Nursing. Through a humble attitude and an open mind, the support of my family and friends, and the privilege of being taught by such amazing instructors, I have grown to see the value and importance of education. I now have goals, a career path, and a new passion in life.