Knox Public Health adds Ciara Haas to behavioral health team

Knox Public Health announced the addition of Ciara Haas, PMHNP-BC, to the behavioral health team at the Knox County Community Health Center. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, Haas is trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions through a combination of therapy and, when appropriate, medication management. 

Growing up in a variety of communities, Haas witnessed firsthand the gaps in access to comprehensive mental health services. Wanting to bridge those gaps, she pursued a career path that would allow her to combine therapy with medication management.

“I felt that I could do more for the community this way, and becoming a psychiatric nurse practitioner was the best way to do it,” Haas said. “At the root of connection is a good conversation, and I feel lucky to help create a safe space where people can be open, vulnerable, and work toward their goals.” 

Haas’s career journey has been both long and rewarding. She earned an Associate of Science from Columbus State Community College, followed by a bachelor’s in social work from The Ohio State University. Wanting to expand her ability to serve patients, she returned to OSU to obtain her RN license and Master of Science in Nursing, specializing in Psychiatric Mental Health. This enabled her to become a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. 

Her professional experience includes roles as a constant attendant and PCA at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, a social work internship at Ohio Guidestone, and service as a psychiatric technician at OSU Harding. She later returned to Nationwide Children’s as a nurse before advancing to charge nurse in the psychiatric crisis department. During her clinical rotations at OSU, she gained experience in crisis services at OSU Harding, inpatient services at Nationwide Children’s, and outpatient care with LifeStance. These diverse experiences shaped her comprehensive approach to behavioral health. 

Haas’s patient care philosophy centers on trust, comfort, and humor. She views humor as a powerful coping tool and a way to remind patients they are more than their diagnoses or circumstances.

“What drew me to Knox county is how close-knit and community-focused this area is,” Haas shared. “I love how personable people are, and I was immediately drawn to public health because of the wide range of programs available to support patients. I look forward to helping people connect with those resources.” 

Haas is excited to continue building connections with patients and the community. “It already feels like I’m part of an organization that is making a real difference,” she said. “Seeing patients progress has already been so fulfilling. I’m looking forward to getting out there and getting engaged with the community.” 

“We are honored to welcome Ciara to our behavioral health team,” said Anthony Bowersock, interim project director of Knox County Community Health Center. “Her skills and commitment will strengthen our services and support the well-being of our community.” 

Join KPH in welcoming Ciara Haas, PMHNP-BC, to Knox Public Health as we continue working together to build a stronger, healthier future for all. To make an appointment at one of the Behavioral Health Center locations — or if you have any questions — call 740-399-8008. Please note that appointments are required for all Health Center clinics. 

For more information about Psychiatric-Mental Health Nursing visit, https://www.apna.org/about-psychiatric-nursing