Nurse Reflects on Career in PHP, Program Celebrates 30 Years with Nov. 13 Open House

Over a 50-year career, registered nurse Aileen Wernert has worked or taught in the nursing field. Even in retirement, she continues to fill a role at the Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) at MyMichigan Medical Center Alma.

During her career at MyMichigan Medical Center Alma, she worked as a manager in the Obstetrics, Mental Health and Education Departments. From there she went on to a teaching career at Mid Michigan College in Alma, retiring in 2017.

“I knew I wasn’t a good ‘retired person,’ so when the manager at the PHP contacted me to fill in for their registered nurse, Louise St. John, I jumped at the chance,” explained Wernert. “In fact, Louise was one of my nursing students so it’s nice to see her in a fulfilling nursing career.”

Wernert is familiar with the PHP, having been at MyMichigan when the program first started. She has witnessed firsthand the benefits for patients as they learned new skills to cope with life’s challenges. She often brought her students to the PHP to see the vital role it plays in supporting mental health.

“It’s incredible to see patients return day after day with their heads held higher, smiles on their faces and a renewed sense of hope,” she said. “Witnessing their transformations is deeply rewarding, knowing they aren’t alone on their mental health journey.”

PHP programs began to emerge in Michigan in the 1960s, filling a need between inpatient care and traditional outpatient services. It’s an intensive program, offering patients six hours of structured treatment during the day and returning home each night. Patients participate in group and individual therapy to help them manage their mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety.

Alma welcomed its first patient in November 1995 after receiving a certificate of need and all necessary licensure requirements. Over the last 30 years, the PHP has helped thousands of individuals manage their mental health needs.

The Alma team recently earned the Five Star Professional Research Consultants (PRC) Excellence Award for being in the top 10 percent nationwide for Overall Quality of Care for Outpatient Behavioral Health Services for the year 2024. The PHP team includes Michelle Lucchesi M.A., L.L.P., Brandan Snook, M.A., L.P.C., and Louise St. John, B.S. R.N., who work with psychiatrist Sunil Rangwani, M.D., and his team who all come together with one shared goal of helping patients feel seen, understood and supported.

Working in the PHP is unlike any other role Wernert has had as a nurse. Every day brings new faces, stories and opportunities to make a difference.

“Having a mental health condition is not something anyone asks for,” said Wernet. “It takes courage for those individuals to walk through our doors at what may be one of the most challenging times in their lives. We get to see them rediscover strength, hope and connection. Watching that transformation never gets old.”

Wernert is enjoying her work/retirement balance as she enjoys being able to sit front row and watch the transitions patients go through during their time at the Alma PHP. As the team celebrate its 30^th anniversary, she is proud to be part of a program that believes in people, even when they may struggle to believe in themselves.

“It’s an honor to care for patients, to cheer them on, and to be part of their healing journey,” said Wernert.

Community members are invited to learn more about the Alma PHP during an open house with staff on Thursday, Nov. 13, from 4 to 6 p.m. at MyMichigan Medical Center Alma. Those interested in more information on MyMichigan’s behavioral health programs may visit mymichigan.org/mentalhealth