About

I got into mental health nursing because I have had my own challenges with mental health and want to help others who are struggling and feeling alone. It is also the area I could be the most effective in as both an empath and people-person. The main tools in mental health are empathy, communication, and the therapeutic use of self. Prior to nursing I wanted to be a teacher and in my capacity I have the opportunity to still do that. I have been a non-violent crisis intervention trainer for over 7 years, have been teaching Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) for over 3 years, and over my 10-year career as a mental health nurse have facilitated dozens of workshops and courses mainly on mental health and mindfulness.

- Matthew Rico, RN, BScN, CPMHN(C), Psychotherapist