Jill Donaldson, PMHNP

Introduction

Jill Donaldson, a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, found her calling in the back of an ambulance.

“I went to nursing school as a paramedic,” she says. “I discovered pretty quickly that the most enjoyable part of an emergency situation for myself occurred after the medical interventions were performed, when I was comforting my patient on the way to the hospital. Being able to talk to my patient during what was often the worst time of his or her life touched my heart and inspired my passion in mental health.”

Jill extends the same philosophy she learned on ambulance runs to her patients today, believing that listening is the bedrock of an authentic, therapeutic relationship. “It’s all about being present and truly listening to what is being said,” she shares.

Every day, she is inspired by her patients to develop and build those relationships. “My patients come from all walks of life and in various stages of their personal struggles, challenges, or goals,” she continues. “Being able to watch as hope is restored allows me to realize every day how blessed I am to do this job.”

A recent transplant from Alabama, Jill appreciates something many Montana residents take for granted – snow. “When it snows, I get very excited and can’t wait for the next snowfall. During the Christmas of 2017, I went sledding for the first time in my life, and it was one of the most fun things I have ever done in my life,” she says. When Jill is home, and not enjoying the snow, she loves to sit by the fire and read a good book.