Ryan Backer joins Essentia Health-South University Clinic to practice behavioral health

The Essentia Health-South University Clinic is excited to welcome Ryan Backer, an advanced practice registered nurse and certified nurse practitioner in behavioral health.

"Essentia Health offers a wide array of interdisciplinary mental health services and is a primary leader in midwestern states," explained Backer. "Working in a team format not only helps patient outcomes but allows for applications of the most up-to-date research."

Backer received his education from Eastern Kentucky University in Richmond and is certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center.

"What interested me in becoming a psychiatric nurse practitioner was growing up in a community where mental health wasn’t always openly discussed," said Backer. "I saw how stigma could keep people from seeking help, and I wanted to be someone who could change that — someone who listens, understands and helps others move forward."

To schedule an appointment with Backer, please call (701) 364-8900. To see his full profile, visit EssentiaHealth.org and click on "Find a Doctor."