Social Model Recovery Systems (SMRS) is pleased to congratulate Justina Catania, RN, BSN, on her promotion to Senior Clinical Nurse Manager.
Justina joined SMRS in September 2023 as the organization’s first registered nurse. Because the position was new, she had an opportunity to help shape nursing services at SMRS from the beginning. She has since worked closely with programs and staff to expand clinical support and help ensure that the people we serve receive thoughtful, compassionate care.
Justina first learned about SMRS through a family connection who introduced her to Somer Harrison-Mierau, PT, Medication Services Manager. At the time, SMRS was seeking its first registered nurse to support the expansion of medication-based addiction treatment.
Having witnessed firsthand the effects of addiction and the stigma that people with substance use disorders may face in healthcare settings, Justina felt a personal connection to the work. The position gave her an opportunity to bring together nursing, advocacy, and her belief that everyone deserves to be treated with dignity and respect.
Justina earned her bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Azusa Pacific University and her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from West Coast University. Before joining SMRS, she spent 3.5 years working in the Neuro Trauma and Surgical Unit at Loma Linda University Medical Center. That experience gave her a strong clinical foundation and taught her the importance of remaining calm, present, and compassionate when caring for people in difficult moments.
What matters most to Justina is making sure people feel heard and supported. She understands that no two recovery journeys are the same and approaches each person with patience and without judgment. One of the most meaningful parts of her work is seeing residents regain stability, recognize their strengths, and begin looking toward the future with hope.
In her new role, Justina hopes to continue growing the nursing presence throughout SMRS. She wants to make nursing support more accessible, strengthen the clinical knowledge of multidisciplinary teams, and help staff feel prepared to respond to the healthcare needs of individuals in recovery. She will also continue focusing on safety, quality of care, and collaboration across programs.
One lesson Justina carries with her is the importance of consistency and follow-through. She believes trust grows when people know they can count on you—whether they are residents, coworkers, or members of the care team.
Her advice to nurses interested in behavioral health is simple: lead with compassion, stay open-minded, keep learning, and remember that every person is more than a diagnosis.
Outside of work, Justina enjoys cooking, gardening, and spending time with her family.
Congratulations, Justina, on this well-deserved promotion. We look forward to seeing her continue to support our staff, strengthen nursing services, and make a difference in the lives of the people we serve.
