Sherril Joseph, a registered nurse at Mira Vista Behavioral Health Center, embodies the power of empathy and compassion in healthcare. As a Staff Nurse/Nursing Supervisor at the psychiatric hospital, which serves both adolescents and adults, she plays a critical role in delivering hands-on care to those struggling with mental health challenges. But her impact goes beyond medical expertise—her personal experiences and a deep understanding of mental health are at the heart of the care she provides.
“I strive to support individuals who are struggling by empathizing with their experiences,” said Joseph. “Having personally navigated periods of depression long before entering the nursing profession, I often share my journey with patients. This helps foster a sense of trust and comfort, encouraging them to open up and seek the care they need.”
Joseph’s approach is built on the foundation of shared understanding. Her goal is to foster an environment where patients feel safe to talk about their challenges, knowing they are not alone. As a mother of three boys and a Caribbean native, Joseph draws on her own life experiences to connect with her patients on a personal level, helping them navigate the complexities of mental health with empathy and care.
While the medical work Sherril performs is rewarding in itself, a recent experience with a young patient left an indelible mark on her heart. After being discharged from the hospital, a teen patient created a stunning portrait of her. The artwork was created without her knowledge, and when upon seeing it, was deeply moved by the thoughtful gesture.
The portrait, which captured Joseph’s neat hair and direct gaze, also featured two large earrings—one with the letter “L” and the other with “N.” Sherril believes these initials stood for “Loving Nurse.” On the back of the portrait, the words “Thank You Mama” were written, a sentiment that reflected the profound impact their conversations had on the patient.
“I believe those letters stand for ‘Loving Nurse,'” Joseph says, her voice reflecting genuine emotion. “The message deeply moved me, as it showed that the patient had truly recognized the empathy and compassion I had offered throughout our conversations. The drawing, accompanied by such a heartfelt note, served as a powerful reminder that I had made a lasting impact on her life—that she would remember me and the care I provided.”
For Joseph, this portrait is more than just a beautiful piece of art; it represents the deep emotional connection she strives to build with each patient, helping them feel heard, supported, and valued during some of the most difficult times in their lives.
A core element of Joseph’s nursing philosophy is challenging the stigma surrounding mental illness. She is quick to address patients who use negative language when describing their mental health struggles, especially terms like “crazy.”
“I always make it a point to reassure patients, saying, ‘No, you are not crazy. You are just going through a tough time,'” Jospeh explains. “It’s important for them to know that there is someone ready to listen and genuinely cares. I want them to feel safe in expressing their emotions without fear or judgment.
Joseph recognizes that many patients feel judged, either by society or even by those closest to them. To counter this, she strives to create a safe, non-judgmental environment where they can freely open up. “Often, patients feel as though others are judging them,” she says. “In those moments, I reassure them by saying, ‘I am here as your nurse to advocate for you, to comfort you. I am not here to judge you, and I will not judge you.’ More often, when I say these words, patients respond with gratitude, saying, ‘Thank you.'”
The trust her patients place in her is something Joseph holds in the highest regard. Offering a safe space for healing is a cornerstone of her work, and she takes great pride in knowing that her patients feel both understood and supported throughout their journey.
Joseph’s path to nursing was shaped by her childhood health struggles. Growing up with undiagnosed asthma, she developed a strong desire to understand how the human body works and how she could help others facing health challenges. This personal experience sparked a passion for healthcare and led her to pursue a career as a certified nursing assistant, then as a licensed practical nurse, and eventually a registered nurse with a bachelor’s degree.
At MiraVista, she works closely with a multidisciplinary team to assess and medicate patients, helping them understand how their treatment will support their recovery. She is particularly drawn to psychiatric nursing, where the power of individualized care can make a significant difference in patients’ lives.
“The work we do here is truly life-changing,” Joseph says. “We offer the support individuals need during their most difficult times. Mental health is a critical issue in our society, and when someone’s mental well-being is compromised, it impacts every other aspect of their life.” She describes MiraVista as a place where staff members are respected and their input is valued. It is this collaborative environment that, in her view, allows for the rapid and effective treatment of patients who are often experiencing some of the most difficult times of their lives.
Beyond the hands-on care she provides, Joseph also serves as a source of hope for her patients, particularly adolescents who are struggling with their mental health challenges. She shares her own story of overcoming personal difficulties to become a nurse, showing her patients that healing is possible and that their struggles don’t define their future.
“When I share my journey of overcoming mental health challenges and becoming a nurse, I often see surprise and admiration on the adolescents’ faces. In those moments, I emphasize to them, ‘You have the potential to become anything you want. It starts with changing your mindset, accessing the right treatment, and, most importantly, believing in yourself.” Joseph’s ability to connect with her patients and help them see a brighter future is one of the most powerful aspects of her work. She often asks her patients about their goals, and she is consistently amazed by their answers. “They have dreams and aspirations,” she says. “They want to live fulfilling lives, but they are currently facing challenges. That’s why I always remind them, ‘I’m here for you. As your nurse, my role is to help you heal and support you throughout your recovery.'”
For Joseph, every patient is a person with potential, and every challenge is an opportunity for growth. Her commitment to caring for others is a testament to the power of compassion and understanding in healthcare.
As she puts it, “I am here to help you heal and become the person you’re meant to be.” This deep commitment to the healing power of empathy is what makes her such a transformative presence in the lives of the patients she serves.