Seeking a Nursing Job? RHA Nurses Share Why You Should Apply.
May 9, 2025
At RHA Health Services, our nurses can serve in many capacities – intellectual/developmental disability services, behavioral health services, crisis services, and more. If you are a nurse with compassion for the people we serve, there is a place for you at RHA!
Are you curious about nursing at RHA? We reached out to several outstanding nurses to share their career journeys.
Why did you apply to work at RHA?
Diane Conatser, IDD RN in TN: Fresh out of school, I knew I wanted to work regular daytime hours and no weekends! My daughter in law told me an office position was open where she worked, which was exactly what I was looking for. It didn’t take me long to fall in love with the population we support at RHA, and I feel blessed to play a small part in making their lives better!
Miranda Desmond, IDD RN in NC: I applied to work at RHA because disability services have always held a special place in my heart. When I first became a nurse, I worked for a similar company, and it was one of the most rewarding experiences of my early career. After starting a new chapter of life—moving, getting married, and beginning a family—I knew I wanted to return to the work that brought me so much purpose and joy. Joining RHA felt like coming home to the kind of nursing that truly aligns with my values: compassionate, person-centered, and team driven.
Cassie Isreal, IDD RN in NC: I was really interested in the work RHA does and the disability services they provide. This type of nursing wasn’t something that was talked about much in nursing school, and I wanted the opportunity to explore different nursing specialties and expand my knowledge. I’m so grateful that God placed me with RHA—it’s truly been a blessing. I’ve met some of the kindest, most wonderful people here, and I’m excited for many more years and opportunities to grow with RHA!
Cristi Leming, IDD LPN in GA: My nursing career started in IDD in June 2012. The RN I worked under left to work for SRC (now RHA). She was an excellent teacher and inspired me to better care for our individuals, so I applied to work underneath her leadership to further my career and education within the IDD community.
Ashley Whittaker, Behavioral Health LPN in PA: I have always been passionate about psych and behavioral health nursing, and my personal experiences with ADHD have shaped my perspective and compassion towards individuals with mental health challenges. This personal insight drives my desire to work at RHA, where I can contribute to a team that prioritizes care and empowers patients through their unique journeys.
What inspires you about your job?
Miranda Desmond, IDD RN in NC: Every single day, I’m inspired by the opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Watching the individuals we support reach milestones, however big or small, reminds me why I chose this career. I’m also incredibly grateful for the team around me—working alongside compassionate staff, supportive physicians, and a truly amazing nursing team makes even the toughest days rewarding. It’s inspiring to be part of a team that leads with heart, advocates fiercely, and shows up every day to bring dignity, care, and joy to those we serve.
Cassie Isreal, IDD RN in NC: The people we support inspire me every single day. Building special relationships with each individual and being part of their daily lives brings me so much joy. It’s incredibly fulfilling to know that the care and connection we provide can make a real difference—and honestly, they’ve made just as much of a difference in my life. I’m so grateful for the opportunity to do this work and to share in these meaningful moments together.
Cristi Leming, IDD LPN in GA: Knowing that I am helping individuals not only to have the best health possible but also provide the assistance needed to for them to have life choices that can assist them in having a fulfilling life.
Ashley Whittaker, Behavioral Health LPN in PA: I am deeply inspired by the opportunity to empower and advocate for the people we support, particularly those from vulnerable demographics. My passion for helping others was ignited during my early nursing school experiences, where I recognized the profound impact a compassionate advocate can have on the lives of individuals facing health challenges. Witnessing their resilience and progress fuels my commitment to providing person-centered care.
What would you tell someone considering joining RHA as a nurse?
Diane Conatser, IDD RN in TN: RHA has always advocated for not only me, but all of our nurses. Our new hire nurses not only receive one-on-one training with a clinical team nurse, but they continue getting the training they need to succeed in their new role. They also receive support at the corporate local levels by me, the QA nurse, other nurses in the unit, and their administrator. I have personally experienced that support many times in my almost 7 years with RHA. Advocacy and support come in many forms, but the biggest help for any new nurse is that their clinical team is willing to go the extra mile in whatever capacity is needed. RHA excels in providing support, and on stressful days, that means everything.
Miranda Desmond, IDD RN in NC: If you’re considering joining RHA as a nurse, I’d say do it—you won’t regret it. Not only is the work incredibly meaningful, but you also get to be part of a team that truly feels like family. I’ve had the privilege of working alongside some of the most compassionate, dedicated nurses I’ve ever met, and I’ve built friendships here that I know will last a lifetime. We support each other, we laugh together, and we show up for one another on hard days. You get to build real connections with the individuals we support, advocate for their health and quality of life, and be part of a team that truly works together. It’s a collaborative environment where your voice matters and your compassion makes a visible difference. RHA is a place where you can grow as a nurse while doing deeply meaningful work every day.
Cassie Isreal, IDD RN in NC: If a nurse is considering joining the RHA team, I would tell them to do it! The leaders and teammates you’ll meet are some of the best people—always supportive and genuinely invested in your success. RHA offers so many opportunities to grow as a nurse, and you’re never alone in the process. The leadership and fellow nurses are always willing to help, share knowledge, and answer any questions you may have. It’s a place where you can build your skills, feel valued, and be part of a truly encouraging team.
Cristi Leming, IDD LPN in GA: At RHA, we are more than nurses to the individuals we support. We are advocates, we provide comfort, and for some individuals — we are their eyes, ears and voices. To know the individuals trust us is one of the most rewarding feelings we can have.
Ashley Whittaker, Behavioral Health LPN in PA: Joining RHA as a nurse presents an incredible opportunity for professional growth and meaningful impact. You will gain valuable experience and autonomy while working in an environment dedicated to enhancing the lives of individuals in need. It’s a chance to be part of a mission-driven team that values collaboration and patient-centered care and support.
Nurses at RHA enjoy many job benefits including:
Opportunities for professional growth and career advancement.
Unbeatable company culture at the workplace “where humans bloom.”
Educational reimbursement.
Low patient-to-nurse ratio.
Flexible schedule.
If you want to join our welcoming team of nurses, RHA wants to hear from you! Find open jobs near you and apply today at rhajobs.com .
