Biography
Huyen Nguyen is an Assistant Professor of Nursing at Clayton State University. Before entering the education field, Huyen served as a nurse manager at Georgia Regional Hospital, a state-owned facility for individuals with severe mental disorders. Huyen earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from Georgia State University and her Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) at Walden University as a PMHNP. With years of experience in mental health nursing, Huyen is dedicated to providing comprehensive and empathetic care to individuals experiencing mental health challenges. In addition, Huyen is committed to advancing mental health care through education and advocacy.
Outside of her professional life, Huyen enjoys practicing yoga, volunteering at local mental health non-profits, and spending time with her family and friends. She is an advocate for self-care and mental well-being.
Education
BS, Nursing , Georgia State University , 2017
MS, Nursing , Walden University , 2023
Intellectual Contributions
Monay Sanders, Victoria Foster, Huyen Nguyen, Samone Ighofose., Using Simulation in Mental Health Nursing Course and its Impact on the Perception of Clinical Competence. , Journal of Nursing – September 2025
Presentations
Huyen Nguyen, Victoria Foster, Monay Sanders, Using Simulation in Mental Health Nursing Courses and its Impact on the Perception of Clinical Competence: results of a comparative study, GANE 2025 February 28 2025
Service to the University & University System of Georgia
Department, Student & Community Relations Committee, Committee Member – 2025 to Present
Department, Systematic Evaluation Committee , Committee Member – 2024 to Present
Teaching Interest
My teaching interests align closely with Clayton State University’s mission to cultivate academic excellence, community involvement, and a student-centered learning environment. I am deeply committed to educating future nurses in the field of mental health—an area that requires not only clinical expertise but also empathy, cultural sensitivity, and strong communication skills.
I am particularly interested in teaching courses related to psychiatric-mental health nursing, therapeutic communication, crisis intervention, and trauma-informed care. My approach to teaching emphasizes active learning strategies, such as simulations, case-based discussions, and reflective practice, that help students connect theoretical knowledge with clinical application. I also strive to integrate real-world experiences and community engagement opportunities that resonate with Clayton State’s focus on experiential learning and service to diverse populations.
Ultimately, my goal is to prepare students to deliver compassionate, evidence-based mental health care that addresses the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. I seek to empower nursing students to challenge stigma, advocate for vulnerable populations, and recognize the essential role of mental health in holistic nursing practice. Through mentorship and inclusive teaching, I aim to contribute to Clayton State University’s ongoing commitment to producing skilled, ethical, and compassionate nursing professionals.
Research Interest
My research interests focus on improving mental health outcomes through innovative, evidence-based nursing interventions and community-based approaches. Specifically, I am interested in exploring the intersections of mental health, trauma, and social determinants of health—particularly among underserved and marginalized populations. My goal is to advance nursing research that informs practice, reduces disparities, and enhances holistic well-being.
Key areas of focus include:
Trauma-Informed Nursing Care: Investigating how trauma-informed education and interventions can improve patient engagement, safety, and recovery in acute and community settings.
Reducing Stigma in Mental Health: Examining the impact of stigma on care-seeking behaviors and developing educational strategies that foster empathy and understanding among nursing students and healthcare providers.
Resilience and Coping Among Nurses: Studying the effects of workplace stress, burnout, and compassion fatigue on mental health nurses, with a focus on strategies that promote resilience and professional well-being.
Culturally Responsive Mental Health Care: Evaluating culturally grounded approaches to psychiatric-mental health nursing that improve accessibility, trust, and outcomes in diverse communities.
