Michelle Hammer, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner

Michelle Hammer, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, received her BSN from Minnesota State University, Mankato, in 2002.  She has enjoyed serving Mankato and the surrounding communities for over twenty years.  She has cared for and addressed the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of countless patients while working as a bedside nurse, Charge Nurse, and Rapid Response Nurse in the Intensive Care Unit at Mayo Clinic Health System in Mankato, MN.  She received her Master's in Nursing from Maryville Unversity of St. Louis, MO, in 2022 and became a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner.  She completed clinical rotations at several sites, including Student Health Services at Minnesota State Mankato.  Michelle believes in utilizing a holistic approach to mental health care where the student and their unique and individual needs are at the center of their treatment plan.

Why did you choose to go into college health?

I feel passionate about student well-being and health promotion. More importantly, I enjoy working with a diverse group of students, each with unique needs and backgrounds. The diversity makes the work dynamic and interesting.

What type of visits do you enjoy the best?

Mental Health visits!

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

One of the most significant rewards is the opportunity to make a positive impact on people’s lives. Helping students overcome mental health challenges and supporting them on their journey to recovery can be deeply satisfying.

What’s unique about the care that patients receive at Student Health Services?

We have a unique team with a focus on the health of college students. The transition to college life can be challenging, and we are equipped and prepared to provide mental health support so the students can achieve optimal mental health and academic success.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

Swimming, biking, reading a good book with a coffee, and hanging around family and friends!