Reitmaier, Amy
Amy Reitmaier, a nursing professor at Winona State University, is a dedicated and compassionate Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) Instructor with 25 years of nursing experience. Her mission is to make mental health support accessible to everyone, is committed to breaking down the stigma surrounding concerns related to mental health and empowering others to provide vital support to those in need. As a certified MHFA Instructor, Amy possesses a deep understanding of various mental health conditions, their signs, and symptoms. Her training not only equips participants with essential knowledge but also provides them with the practical skills needed to assist someone experiencing a mental health crisis or struggling with emotional distress.

Amy's journey into mental health advocacy began during her undergraduate studies, where she developed a profound interest in the complexities of the human mind. She furthered her education by obtaining a master’s degree in nursing education and a doctoral degree in nursing concentrating on geropsychology. She has accumulated a wealth of experience in diverse healthcare settings, including extended care facilities specializing in long-term patient needs, fast-paced hospital medical-surgical units focused on acute care, and compassionate hospice environments catering to end-of-life care and support. She currently serves as a faculty member with Bridges Health, which provides free health, wellness and social services working with diverse populations focusing on health promotion.

With a warm and empathetic teaching style, Amy creates a safe and inclusive learning environment for her students. She is passionate about fostering understanding, empathy, and active listening skills, which are essential components of effective mental health first aid. Amy is dedicated to empowering individuals and organizations with the tools they need to support mental health and well-being. She firmly believes that knowledge is the key to reducing the stigma surrounding mental health and creating a more compassionate society. Her commitment to this vital cause reflects her belief that everyone deserves the opportunity to thrive, and that begins with understanding and compassion.

If you would like to have MHFA training, please feel free to email her at areitmaier@winona.edu.