Susie Breitenstein, PhD, RN

Associate Professor
Department of Community, Systems, and Mental Health Nursing, College of Nursing
Department of Nursing Sciences, Graduate College
Role: Faculty, Researcher, Associate Chair
Joined Rush in 1993

Bio

I conduct clinical work in Adolescent and Child Psychiatry, and this work has informed my research in mental health promotion and prevention. My research foci include: evidence-based parenting interventions, fatherhood interventions, and intervention fidelity. I developed and established the psychometric properties of the Fidelity Checklist, a measure of group leader adherence and competence to the intervention model of the Chicago Parent Program (CPP). I have also worked with other researchers to modify the Fidelity Checklist for a variety of behavioral change interventions. Recently, with funding from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, I developed and tested a tablet-based adaptation of the group-based CPP. The long-term goal of my program of research is to develop methods to promote the sustainability and reach of evidence-based behavioral interventions in community and healthcare settings. My primary teaching responsibilities are in the Psychiatric Mental Health Specialty DNP program and the PhD program, with a focus on quantitative research methodology.

What inspired you to get into your field?

After working clinically for many years with children, adolescents, and families with mental health issues, my passion for prevention emerged.

What excited you about your work at Rush?

What is most rewarding about my work at Rush is the emphasis on collaboration and collegiality. It is a great environment for clinical education, and research.

What is your opinion of mentoring and sponsorship? Please comment about your experiences.

I would not be where I am today without my mentors/sponsors.

Do you have tips or advice you would recommend for someone looking to enter your field of work?

Manage your time well, love what you do and have fun!

What are your hobbies? How do you like to spend your free time?

Running, reading, knitting, biking, time with my family and friends.