Team Member Recognition

Department of Mental Health Team Member of the Month: December 2025

Being able to react quickly in an emergency is an important skill for a Support Care Professional to have, and in some cases, it can be lifesaving for the individuals DMH serves. December’s Team Member of the Month is Chad Walker, a Support Care Professional at Northwest Community Services (NWCS) who recently saved an individual’s life.

His nomination explained there “was an individual who grabbed some food that wasn’t theirs and it caused them to choke. Chad sprang into action doing abdomen thrusts and saved this individual’s life. He never panicked and never wavered. He did what we all hope we would do when this type of emergency happens.”

During his many years at NWCS, Chad has always been an integral part of his team. In his supervisory role, his coworkers not only note his strong leadership but his genuine compassion for staff and the individuals they serve.

“Chad Walker is very dependable, said a fellow team member. “He would never ask to be recognized. However, the people he works with can think of no one more deserving than him. The difference he makes each day is impossible to ignore.”

Chad has worked for DMH and has been a loyal NWCS team member for over 30 years. Thank you for the decades of dedication to your team and the DMH clients. Congratulations!

Team Member of the Month: November 2025

The art of being a good trainer is incredibly important. Not only to teach hands-on skills but to help build confidence within team members to ensure the safety and livelihood of the individuals DMH serves.  The November Team Member of the Month has truly honed the craft of training according to his co-workers.  Joshua Paul is a Staff Development Training Specialist for Southeast Missouri Residential Services in Sikeston and Poplar Bluff. 

Joshua approaches each New Employee Orientation (NEO) with empathy, putting himself in the shoes of every new hire. His goal is to prepare them not just for the job, but for the realities they may face in any home, on any day. From Safety Care to American Red Cross training, Joshua ensures every detail is covered; often coordinating back-to-back sessions and juggling recertifications for staff across both the Sikeston and Poplar Bluff facilities.

He has worn many hats throughout his years with DMH and each one has been marked by dedication, humility, and a deep commitment to the mission of DMH. Joshua steps into every situation with no expectation of recognition—just a desire to do the job well. He responds to crisis situations without hesitation, whether leading the response or offering support, always understanding the weight of the moment and what it means for the individuals.

A co-worker shared that Joshua is a mentor to many, a go-to for advice, and a steady presence for those with questions or concerns. His colleagues speak of him with admiration, noting his tireless work ethic, his quiet leadership, and his unwavering commitment to DMH and the people we serve.

Joshua has worked for DMH for 13 years and is a veteran of the United States Army.  Thank you for your service.

Team Member of the Month: October 2025

Having a trusted and knowledgeable role model in a DMH facility that staff can turn to when challenges arise can make all the difference for both patients and the team.

Fulton State Hospital (FSH) staff commends October Team Member of the Month, Forensic Rehabilitation Specialist (FRS III), Larry Rivers, for his advocacy for patients and staff alike, continuously providing knowledge and input for improving client care and workplace morale.

FSH team members express their gratitude for Larry’s “open door policy,” and feel at ease turning to him for guidance about the Sex Offender Rehabilitation and Treatment Services (SORTS) program, as well as hospital policies and procedures. Larry has selflessly given his time, coming in early or staying late; even returning after leaving for the day to mentor or coach staff, assist with patient issues, or to help when unexpected occurrences arise. Larry also put in a tremendous amount of time helping prepare for the Joint Commission and did excellent work while they were in SORTS.

Larry’s coworkers say, “He remains calm but can work quickly in situations that arise while maintaining a high level of professionalism. He volunteers to do anything he can to help his co-workers including in Nixon Forensic Center and Hearnes Forensic Center.”.

Larry has worked at FSH for 9 years and is the Supervisor Security Support Care Assistant for the SORTS program. Well done and congratulations, Larry!

Team Member of the Month: September 2025

Some of the individuals DMH serves have very challenging behaviors. At times, these behaviors can lead to physical confrontations with staff and other patients. The DMH Team Member of the Month has a unique ability to connect with patients, even in the most difficult circumstances.  Chelsea Schneider is a Registered Nurse (RN) at Northwest Missouri Psychiatric Rehabilitation Center.  She recently stepped in to help with a patient who had assaulted staff multiple times.  Chelsea treated the patient with respect, patience, and empathy, and quickly brought the situation under control.  Her composure and confidence reassured other patients and the staff that everything was going to be okay.

Chelsea is said to treat all patients with dignity and compassion, regardless of their behavior, which illustrates her exceptional professionalism.

One co-worker said, “As a relatively newer RN, with just over two years of experience, she demonstrates grace under pressure which inspires her peers to approach challenges in the same way. Chelsea's readiness to support her colleagues and uplift those who are struggling brings stability to the unit.”

Well done, Chelsea. Congratulations!

Team Member of the Month: August 2025

One of the most challenging tasks in a DMH facility is moving clients from an area in which they are used to living.  Southeast Missouri Mental Health Center (SMMHC) recently had to move a ward due to construction.  This required the relocation of 19 clients. Lisa McDonald, a Psychiatric Technician at SMMHC, knew this would be a difficult time and insisted on helping.  Despite the move happening on her day off, she came in to provide organization and efficiency to the process.  Her willingness to step in along with her commitment to the well-being of the clients exemplifies a level of care and team work, which earned her the DMH Team Member of the Month for August.   

Lisa has an excellent rapport with clients and is ready to step in and help when she is needed.  She is considered by her co-workers as someone whom you can consistently rely on and is always a team player.  

One of her co-workers said, “Lisa is flexible and always willing to do difficult tasks.  She is able to keep a smile on her face and promote a healthy environment to care for clients.”

Lisa has worked at SMMHC for 2 1/2 years. Congratulations Lisa!

Team Member of the Month: July 2025

The skills and techniques the DMH Way teaches not only helps build a stronger team to support the department, but it reinforces everyday life skills.  Jessica Wetzel uses what she has learned about social styles and the unique ways others learn to become an exceptional role model.

Jessica is the July Team Member of the Month, and serves as a Support Care Assistant /Certified Medical Aide at Northwest  Community Services (NWCS) in Marshall. She demonstrates impressive initiative to know each person she interacts with on a daily basis. Jessica makes sure she is well-versed in all the dietary requirements and Individual Support Plans of those she supports. So, based on their specific needs, she guarantees that each individual experiences a high standard of care every day they are with her. Jessica also shows patience to ensure that each staff trainee feels comfortable; she fosters confidence in their skills to help them succeed when the training is complete.

One of her co-workers said, “Jessica treats everyone with dignity and respect at all times, which is evident in the strong connections she has formed with both her colleagues and the individuals she serves. She has also dedicated herself to learning and growing as a team player. With a great sense of humor, she handles both minor and major challenges with ease, always wearing a smile and ready to tackle whatever tasks come her way.”

Jessica has worked at NWCS for more than 4 ½  years. Congratulations Jessica!

Team Member of the Month:  June 2025

Support Care Assistants (SCA) are more than just caregivers; they play a crucial role in enabling individuals with disabilities to lead more independent lives and achieve their personal goals.

The June Team Member of the Month, Tyson Busey, is an SCA at Southwest Community Services (SWCS) and was nominated by one of the residents there. Tyson genuinely cares about the individuals he serves. He empowers them to work on projects independently but is always available and supportive so they can be successful. For example, one individual enjoys cooking but sometimes forgets which ingredients he is missing. Tyson gently reminds him to make sure the dish turns out right.

The individual who recommended Tyson for Team Member of the Month said, "Tyson takes time to understand what I want, takes me to the places I want to go, and does the things I like to do. He's different from other staff; he is active with us clients." 

Tyson has worked at SWCS for nearly a year. Congratulations Tyson!

Team Member of the Month:  May 2025

Maintaining personal appearance is vital for overall health and well-being – especially those in a hospital setting. The May Team Member of the Month truly exemplifies the heart of patient-centered care by understanding that each patient’s needs are unique. Kayla Cress is a Cosmetologist at Northwest Missouri Psychiatric Rehabilitation Center (NMPRC) and is dedicated to ensuring patients are clean and comfortable because it has positive impact on recovery by boosting self-esteem.

Recently, on one of Kayla’s scheduled days off, she was made aware of a new patient that was admitted to NMPRC with severely matted hair. The mat had formed into a large ball on the side of the patient’s head which was inflicting pain and discomfort for the individual. The patient was willing to shave their head due to the severity of the mat but Kayla voluntarily came in to the facility to assist in detangling the extreme matting. Kayla worked over an hour carefully detangling the mat to preserve the patients comfort, dignity, and self-esteem.

One of Kayla’s coworkers said, “She turned what could have been a distressing and traumatic experience into one of kindness and respect. Her willingness to give her time and talents on a day off speaks volumes about her character and the values she brings to the team.”

Kayla has worked at NMPRC for roughly 6 years. Congratulations Kayla!

Team Member of the Month:  April 2025

Ensuring that the individuals DMH cares for live their best lives is a vital piece of the department’s mission, and it’s the right thing to do!

Harper Otero, Support Care Professional at Higginsville Habilitation Center (HCC), always comes to work with a positive attitude and is a great team member and leader. He has worked in the HHC Opportunities for Placement and Enrichment (HOPE)  Program for almost four years and makes the residents and his team members feel truly appreciated in their roles.

To help residents live their best lives, Harper plans various fun activities in the day hall for anyone who wants to participate. Each day Harper brings fresh energy to his plans. He enjoys organizing karaoke for those that love to sing, as well as leading activities such as corn hole, disk frisbee and much more.

Harper also trains new hires and continues to check-in throughout their shifts to see if they have any questions or concerns. One of his coworkers said, “He has grown in not only his confidence as an employee and team player, but also a leader.”

Congratulations, Harper!

Team Member of the Month:  March 2025

Technology is vital in today’s world. It is designed to solve problems, meet needs, improve efficiency, and can simplify daily tasks to help team members do more with less effort. The March Team Member of the Month is instrumental in maintaining all aspects of technology at Fulton State Hospital (FSH).

Jarvis Spencer is a Technology Services Architect and provides the oversight for technology at FSH. His duties include repairing, upgrading, and reviewing new technology. He also works closely with the facility leadership, the Office of Administration - Information Technology Services Division and the Facilities Management Design and Construction Division, as well as outside vendors when needed. He has earned a strong, positive reputation with his peers and is seen as the “go to” person when questions about technology arise. Currently, he is working on the facility’s new scheduling and time clock system to be implemented in 2026.

In addition, Jarvis continues to improve his technical skills and is open to all trainings. One of his greatest strengths is his willingness to help any team member with any project.

One of his coworkers said, “Jarvis has spent his entire career at FSH and it shows! His knowledge and dedication makes him an unmatched resource that we are so blessed to have. He assists with all the major technology at our facility, but you will also often find him training and assisting our front-line supervisors and staff in whatever technology struggles they have.”

Jarvis has worked at FSH for about 21 years. Congratulations Jarvis!