Jefferson Regional Specialty Hospital - Behavioral Health

01/19/2026

Today we honor Dr. King’s call for service to our diverse and vulnerable communities to achieve equality and representation for all.

01/15/2026

Movement is one of the simplest ways to reconnect with yourself. When you move with intention, even small steps can bring big emotional relief.

01/13/2026

🌟 Employee Spotlight: Michelle Alexander, RN🌟

With more than three decades in healthcare, Michelle Alexander, RN brings a depth of experience, resilience, and compassion that truly reflects the heart of Jefferson Regional Specialty Hospital.

Michelle began her healthcare journey in 1993 as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA). Driven by a passion for caring for others, she continued advancing her education and skills over the years — becoming a Phlebotomist in 2000, a Certified Medical Assistant in 2005, a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in 2009, and ultimately earning her Registered Nurse (RN) license in 2012.

Her clinical career spans a wide range of high-acuity and specialty settings. Michelle worked as a Med-Surg nurse starting in 2009, then transitioned into Critical Care in 2014, gaining experience in ICUs, Emergency Departments, private duty nursing, and pediatric ventilator care. These demanding environments shaped her into a strong, emotionally resilient clinician with exceptional clinical judgment.

In 2024, Michelle made a meaningful transition into Behavioral Health Nursing, guided by a growing passion for caring for the whole person — both medically and emotionally. While working in critical care, she frequently encountered patients struggling with delirium, substance use, anxiety, and other psychiatric conditions, which inspired her to deepen her impact in mental health care.

“I wanted a different pace and a more holistic way to help patients,” Michelle shared.

Since joining behavioral health, Michelle has immersed herself in learning psychiatric medications, therapeutic modalities, trauma-informed care, and the legal and ethical aspects of mental health treatment. Her ICU background — where emotional strength and calm decision-making are essential — has uniquely prepared her to care for patients with complex medical and psychiatric needs.

What Michelle is most proud of is being an advocate.

“I’m proud of educating colleagues, earning the trust of patients and families, and making a difference during some of the hardest moments of their lives.”

Outside of work, Michelle enjoys spending time with her family, being outdoors, and going fishing, finding peace and renewal away from the busy pace of healthcare.

One person she deeply admires is a former coworker she once worked alongside — someone whose compassion, advocacy, resilience, and dedication to excellent patient care inspired Michelle to continue growing throughout her career.

Her advice to those entering behavioral health nursing reflects both wisdom and heart:

“Always be aware of your environment and follow safety protocols. Listen actively and validate patients’ feelings. Compassion is essential. Behavioral health care is a team effort — rely on and support your colleagues.”

We are proud to have Michelle Alexander, RN as part of the JRSH Behavioral Health Team, and we thank her for the passion, skill, and heart she brings to our patients every day. 💙

01/13/2026

January is Mental Wellness Month, a reminder to care for your mental health the same way you care for your physical health.

01/09/2026

Today we take time to express our respect and appreciation for those who selflessly risk their lives to protect and serve.

01/08/2026

🌟JRSH Employee Spotlight: Jennie Scales🌟

Jennie brings nearly 20 years of experience across diverse healthcare settings, including acute care, long-term care, home health, correctional health, and behavioral health. Her healthcare journey began in 2006, and in 2012 she officially launched her nursing career as a Licensed Practical Nurse after graduating from Southeast Arkansas College.

Driven by a commitment to lifelong learning, Jennie earned her Associate Degree in Nursing from Southeast Arkansas College, Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, and a Master of Science in Nursing in Executive Leadership from Walden University. In 2025, she completed her Post-Graduate MSN and is on track to become a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP).

Jennie embodies JRSH’s mission through patient-centered, holistic care and a deep passion for expanding access to mental health services for underserved and vulnerable populations. She is inspired by Florence Nightingale, whose legacy of compassionate, evidence-based care and ethical leadership continues to shape Jennie’s approach to nursing and healthcare leadership.

Her advice to aspiring nurses: "Embrace lifelong learning, seek diverse clinical experiences, and never underestimate the power of empathy, communication, and mentorship." Jennie believes these qualities are essential to delivering meaningful care and creating a lasting impact.

Beyond her role at JRSH, Jennie is a proud mother of 3 who volunteers as a Peer Support Specialist at a local women’s shelter, providing hope and support to survivors on their healing journey. We are proud to recognize Jennie for her leadership, resilience, and unwavering commitment to providing excellent service for our patients, our community, and one another. 💙

01/06/2026

As you make your New Year’s resolutions, we encourage you to focus on improving the quality of your mental health. Explore how you’re feeling and why. When you need support, we’re here. Visit jeffersonregionalspecialty.com for more information about our high-quality behavioral health care.

01/01/2026

Wishing you a peaceful, hopeful and healthy New Year.

12/30/2025

As we enter 2026, prioritizing your mental health is more important than ever. Small, consistent steps can make a meaningful difference in your overall wellbeing. You don’t have to face challenges alone. Our behavioral health programs offer quality care and resources tailored to your needs. Visit jeffersonregionalspecialty.com to learn more about how we can help you or a loved one find the path to better mental health.

12/24/2025

May the peace of the season be with you and your loved ones!

12/23/2025

12/23/2025

Holiday cheer filled the halls at JRSH! 🎄✨
We loved coming together to celebrate the season with our incredible team. From laughter and festive fun to meaningful moments of connection, it was a perfect reminder of what makes JRSH such a special place to work.

Thank you to our amazing staff for all you do—during the holidays and all year long. 💙
📸 Be sure to check out our full photo album for more holiday memories!