Introduction to Integrative Nursing

Dr. Deborah Ringdahl serves as Clinical Associate Professor and Co-Director of the Integrative Health and Healing DNP Program at the University of Minnesota School of Nursing. Her academic credentials include a DNP from the University of Minnesota, focusing on integrative healthcare models. She began teaching Reiki at the Center for Spirituality and Healing in 2003, pioneering integrative health scholarship in nursing education. Through her Coursera course "Introduction to Integrative Nursing," she helps healthcare professionals understand holistic approaches to patient care. Her expertise combines nurse midwifery with Reiki practice, focusing on integrative nursing leadership and symptom management through alternative therapies. Her DNP project investigated hospital-based Reiki programs for chemotherapy patients, and she received a 2013-2014 University of Minnesota School of Nursing Foundation grant to study Reiki implementation in pediatric blood and marrow transplant units. As a consultant for long-term care facilities, she continues to advance integrative therapies for symptom management and quality of life improvement while maintaining active teaching roles in both undergraduate and graduate nursing programs.

Dr. Megan Voss is an Associate Professor and the Director of Education at the Earl E. Bakken Center for Spirituality & Healing at the University of Minnesota. She teaches graduate-level courses, including acupressure and integrative nursing, while also serving as a clinical associate professor in the School of Nursing. With extensive clinical experience in oncology, hematology, and mental health, Dr. Voss focuses her research on symptom management and quality of life for cancer patients and individuals with rare diseases. Her holistic approach emphasizes the interconnectedness of physical and mental health, aiming to enhance patient outcomes through integrative health practices.In addition to her academic roles, Dr. Voss is actively involved in developing educational programs that promote integrative health and healing methodologies. Her courses, such as Acupressure and Introduction to Integrative Nursing, are designed to equip healthcare professionals with essential skills for managing complex health issues. Dr. Voss's commitment to advancing integrative nursing practices reflects her dedication to improving the overall well-being of patients through comprehensive care strategies that address both physical ailments and emotional support needs.

Dr. Mary Jo Kreitzer is a prominent figure in integrative health as the founder and director of the Earl E. Bakken Center for Spirituality & Healing at the University of Minnesota. She serves as a tenured professor in the School of Nursing, where she co-leads the Doctor of Nursing Practice program in integrative health and healing. With a focus on mindfulness meditation and its applications for individuals with chronic diseases, Dr. Kreitzer has been involved in numerous clinical trials addressing conditions such as solid organ transplant, cardiovascular disease, chronic insomnia, and diabetes. Her current research interests include exploring mindfulness's role in enhancing brain-computer interface performance and utilizing social technology to promote healing and well-being.Dr. Kreitzer is a recognized leader in her field, having authored over 150 publications and co-edited the influential text "Integrative Nursing." She has contributed significantly to national discussions on integrative health, including testifying at U.S. Senate hearings on health reform. Her courses on Coursera, such as Introduction to Integrative Nursing, aim to educate healthcare professionals on applying integrative principles across various clinical settings. Through her extensive research, teaching, and advocacy, Dr. Kreitzer continues to shape the landscape of nursing and integrative care, emphasizing the importance of addressing both physical and spiritual dimensions of health.