Debra Dusome

RN, BA, Ex.A.T.
Assistant Professor – Psychiatric Nursing
Phone: (204) 772-0377, Ext 228
Fax: (204) 772-7842
dusomed@brandonu.ca

I am an Instructional Associate at the Winnipeg Campus with the Bachelor of Psychiatric Nursing Program. I am a Registered Nurse with 31 years of practice in the mental health field. I originally trained in Ontario where I took my Post-Diploma Psychiatric Nursing specialty training through Durham College. I obtained my Hons. BA from York University where I double majored in Psychology and Health in Society with a focus on Mental Health. My graduate certification is in Expressive Arts Therapy through I.S.I.S.-Canada located in Toronto. My two main interests are in the arts and mental health. In my career as a mental health nurse I’ve worked in inpatient psychiatry, in forensics, addictions, acute care and on a unit for individuals with developmental challenges in addition to their mental illness. I’ve worked in community mental health and in private practice. I’ve worked front-line, as a nurse manager, as a nurse educator and as a consultant to several mental health interdisciplinary teams. I’m currently enrolled and working on my Master’s in Integrated Studies through Athabasca University. My research interests include: how the use of creative expression facilitates mental health, trauma-informed practice, working with clients with complex needs in the community, clinical mentorship/supervision and the construction of professional identity.

• Clarke, D. E., Dusome, D., Hughes, L., (2007). Emergency department from the mental health client’s perspective. International Journal of Mental Health Nursing, 16, 126-131.