Employee Spotlight: Carlos Olivas, MSN, PMHNP-BC
Did you know Artesia General Hospital offers Behavioral Health Services in Spanish? We’re highlighting Carlos Olivas, MSN, PMHNP-BC and his dedication to providing culturally competent mental health care to Spanish-speaking patients.
In his own words
Name: Carlos A. Olivas, MSN, PMHNP-BC
Position: Behavioral Health Provider
How long have you worked at Artesia General Hospital? 1 year
When did you choose a career in medicine and what drew you to the specialty of behavioral health?
I chose to embark on my nursing career at the age of 25 when I was working with the geriatric population. Prior to this, my goal was to become a psychotherapist. But in working with nurses at that time, I learned that I could get into the field of mental health via the nursing pathway.
What is one of the most important lessons you’ve learned throughout your years of practice either from a mentor or experience?
One of the most valuable things I have learned is to thoroughly listen to my patients, educate them, give them options and control over their plan of care, and work with them as a partner rather than as an authority figure.
Why is it important for individuals to receive health care in their native language? What kind of difference can it make?
A specialty as nuanced as behavioral health requires a proper understanding of language and communication to allow the provider to grasp what is being said both in general and between the lines. There are cultural, societal and regional differences in communication, and it is crucial that we understand any underlying ideas being conveyed. This can make the difference between a well-received message within a trusting patient-provider relationship, and one that falls flat and does not meet the patient’s expectations and needs.
Why are you passionate about providing culturally competent care to the local Hispanic community?
I understand what it is like to be in an underserved population as an immigrant and as a patient. Not everyone has the opportunity to learn English after moving to the United States. Being able to help my fellows in a warm and familiar environment is extremely special and satisfying.
What would you say to someone who is skeptical/scared/hesitant to address their mental illness/conditions with a professional? How can they overcome the difficult first steps of seeking help?
I always remind my patients that psychiatry is just another medical specialty that focuses on symptomatology and how it can be addressed, with or without medication. Our clinic is a no-judgment zone and there is no right or wrong reason to seek out care. We always start with a preliminary assessment to help the patient determine if psychiatric care is the right fit for them, and there is never an obligation to establish care regardless of how many visits we have.
What is the most rewarding part of your job?
Seeing my patients have that “aha” moment where they can tell a noticeable difference and improvement in their symptoms. This lets both them and me know that the treatment plan we have designed together is on the right track and yielding results.
What three words would you use to describe yourself?
Professional. Passionate. Caring.
What do you like to do in your free time?
Learn more about mental health to provide better care for my patients.
Learn more about our Behavioral Health Services or request an appointment with Carlos.