Jana Cupp

My goal is to become a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a focus on serving children, teens, and families affected by mental illness. I plan to work in both clinical and community-based settings to expand access to compassionate, trauma-informed care—especially for underserved populations. Long-term, I hope to advocate for better mental health policies and help redesign systems of care to truly support families like mine.

I plan to pursue a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with a specialization in Psychiatric Mental Health. I’m especially interested in programs that emphasize trauma-informed care, family systems, and community mental health. I want a grad school that values both clinical excellence and lived experience—somewhere I can grow as a provider and an advocate for families navigating complex mental health needs.

Outside of nursing school and caregiving, I love camping and exploring new places—last summer, I road-tripped with my kids to campgrounds all over California. I’ve also run three half marathons (yes, on purpose!) and I’m passionate about movement and strength, especially through pole dance. I unwind by sewing, napping, and listening to LGBTQIA+ rom-com audiobooks. I’m also a total Friends fan—I can quote entire episodes. Life is a lot, so I try to keep it fun and a little weird in the best way.