Nurse Practitioner Celebrates 50 Years with Archbold

"I couldn't have done it alone," said JT Thompson, MSN, FNP-C, CNS/PMH.

Thompson credits his long-standing career at Archbold to the extraordinary administration and staff. "My coworkers and colleagues have helped shape me into the person I am today. I have learned so much from them throughout the decades. My passion for mental health and this community has also served a big role in my career, and I am so thankful to be able to serve the patients of South Georgia for as long as I have."

Thompson started his career at Archbold in 1971. Over the course of 50 years, he has served multiple roles and furthered his career from a dietary aid to a transporter, then technician, registered nurse, and now a family nurse practitioner and clinical nurse specialist in psychiatric mental health at Archbold's Northside Center for Behavioral Health and Psychiatric Care.

Thompson graduated from Thomas Technical School as a Licensed Practical Nurse in 1975. He later earned an Associate of Science degree in nursing from Albany Junior College in 1983. He went on to further his career at Albany State University. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in nursing, a Master of Science degree in nursing, and Post Masters degree as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Clinical Nurse Specialist in Psychiatric Mental Health. Thompson, however, adds that his career would not have been possible without the help of Archbold.

"I was able to utilize the Tuition Reimbursement Program that Archbold offers its employees for the majority of my education. I wouldn't have been able to complete my education without this program," said Thompson. "Archbold is an organization that cares about their employees and wants to see them grow and succeed."

Thompson is part of the team who were part of the success in opening Archbold's Northside Center in 1991 and was the first Nurse Practitioner at the facility. Thompson is also a US Veteran and served as a reserve officer as a 1st lieutenant in the United States Army Nurse Corps for eight years while also maintaining his career at Archbold. He received the 2008 Candlelight Vigil for Mental Health awareness award for his dedication to mental health.

"Lastly, a special thank you to my family for their support throughout the years. A special thank you to my late wife, Marinda Thompson, who together we raised two children throughout the time I was furthering my education. Without her constant support as a wife and mother, I wouldn't be where I am today."

Thompson extends a thank you to his children and grandchildren, who followed in his footsteps and pursued careers in the healthcare field. He also thanks administrative staff, psychiatric technicians and therapy and dietary staff, the late Dr. William Slaughter, Dr. Rudolph Watson, Dr. Robert Garrison, and Dr. Eugene Sun for their guidance, teaching and constant support.