ELKINS — Emmylou McDaniel, PMHNP-BC, who has worked in healthcare for the last 16 years, comes to Laurel Place Inpatient Behavioral Health Unit, with a wealth of experience in the field of Mental Health.
McDaniel, who has an MSN in Psychiatric Mental Health from St. Louis University, did her undergraduate work at Fairmont State University and at Berea College in Kentucky.
For McDaniel, the most rewarding parts of her job are working closely with her patients and being a part of their journey toward wellness.
She said, “I think one of the most important aspects of healthcare is making sure that the patient’s needs are heard. Working in mental health, this is especially important, as patients must work toward an understanding of their life experiences and challenges and learning to share this with others. Helping them in this manner and helping them know that their story matters is greatly rewarding.”
Originally, from West Virginia, the choice to work in Elkins was an easy one.
“Being from a small community, I greatly appreciate the opportunity to help meet the unique healthcare needs of all rural West Virginians,” McDaniel said.
While not at work, she enjoys the simple pleasures of life.
She stated, “I enjoy time spent in the outdoors working on the farm with my husband, trail running, and hunting.”
She also added a hobby of interest to occupy her free time. “Several years ago I started raising a heritage breed of hogs, American Guinea Hogs. Learning more about and caring for these animals has been a fascinating and enjoyable experience.”
Starting her medical career as an LPN in a long-term care setting, she has worked in Pennsylvania, Virginia and West Virginia. She holds a certification as an Adult Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (ANCC Certified).
Laurel Place is designed to treat and improve the lives of people ages 55 and older who are suffering from depression, anxiety, sleep disturbances, social withdrawal, interpersonal conflicts and a wide range of other psychiatric conditions.
It is located within Davis Medical Center in Elkins, W.Va., and accepts referrals from families, assisted living centers, emergency departments, and nursing homes. The Laurel Place team includes experienced and board-certified psychiatrists, therapists, nurses and therapeutic support staff. For more information, call 304.630.3508 or visit the website laurelplace.org.
