At Social Model Recovery Systems, healing is often found in the simple moments of care and connection.
In a simple check-in that feels real. In someone noticing when something is not quite right. In the quiet comfort of knowing you are not alone.
This is where our nurses show up, every single day.
During Nurse Week, we take a moment to recognize the nurses across all SMRS programs for the care, consistency, and compassion they bring. What they do matters, but just as important is how they do it, with heart, presence, and a genuine connection to the people they serve.
Somer Harrison-Mierau, PT, Medication Management Coordinator, shared that nursing care goes beyond the clinical. It is about helping participants feel informed, confident, and supported in their daily lives, empowering them to take an active role in their recovery.
Nurses provide an added layer of care. Through ongoing support with medications and lifestyle changes, their presence helps create a more complete approach to addressing residents’ health needs, as shared by Program Director Valerie Cruz of Stepping Stones.
Program Director James Murrell of Omni Center shared how nurses bring a steady sense of structure and stability to the program. The consistency, care, and close attention they show; they notice when something changes and respond with care and intention. That presence helps residents feel supported and stay grounded in their recovery.
Nurses at SMRS are a steady and trusted presence. People turn to them for guidance, reassurance, and support. They help someone understand their health or simply be there; they help build connection and trust.
The nursing staff helps create a safe space where residents feel comfortable opening up and taking care of their health. They show empathy, compassion, and respect in everything they do. Beyond clinical care, they help build trust and make residents feel seen, heard, and supported in their recovery, as described by Bimini Program Manager Luis Berumen.
Nurses are part of the process of healing. They show up with patience. They adjust as things change. They care in quiet ways that people feel every day.
River Community Covina and Wellness Center Program Director Gloria Loera highlighted how the medication support team builds strong relationships through a client-centered, trauma-informed approach. Their consistency and connection help participants feel supported, even through changes in care.
The nursing team is guided by a real desire to help people. The work feels meaningful because it meets residents where they are and supports them through difficult moments. As shared by Royal Palms Program Director Vanesa Ramos, being a nurse goes beyond medical care. It is about showing up with patience, consistency, and respect.
As part of this celebration, we recognize the incredible nurses across our programs. This is a small way to say thank you.
The River Community
LaGuana Shyne, PT
River Community Covina and Wellness Center
Chandra Smith, PT
Sabina Urena, LVN
Stepping Stones
Elizabeth Perez, PT
Omni Center
Merci Burney, LVN
Mariposa
Ivana Gaona, LVN
Royal Palms
Crystal Torres, LVN
Irene Avila, LVN
Bimini
Claudia Callejas, LVN
Medication Management Coordinator
Somer Harrison-Mierau, PT
Withdrawal Management Support Coordinator
Elaine Arguello, RN
Senior Clinical Nurse Manager
Justina Catania, RN
Senior Director, Clinical Services
Lynetta Hale, MA, LMFT, PT
With gratitude,
To our nurses, thank you.
Thank you for showing up each day.
Thank you for your compassion and dedication.
Thank you for being part of each person’s healing journey.
You make a difference every single day.
