Heather Kauphusman, BSN, RN-BC
Heather Kauphusman is a registered nurse with over 20 years of experience specializing in psychiatric and mental health nursing, with particular expertise in substance use disorders, detoxification, and trauma-informed care. She is board certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) as a Psychiatric-Mental Health Specialist and is currently pursuing a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) at Herzing University, with an expected graduation in August 2027, preparing to practice as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
Throughout her career, Heather has worked extensively in inpatient psychiatric settings, providing care across multiple specialty units including acute adult psychiatry, child and adolescent psychiatry, medical psychiatry, and mood disorders. For over five years, she has served as the RN Manager overseeing the detoxification unit at Zumbro Valley Health Center in Rochester, Minnesota, leading a team dedicated to delivering high-quality care to patients struggling with substance use disorders.
Heather is also committed to nursing education, having supervised fourth-year nursing students during their behavioral health clinical rotations at Mayo Clinic and Gundersen Health System. She collaborates with institutions such as St. Mary’s University of Minnesota and Viterbo University, helping to prepare the next generation of nurses for compassionate and skilled practice in psychiatric care.
In addition to her clinical and educational work, Heather is passionate about advocating for underserved populations, particularly in her community of Winona, Minnesota, where access to medication-assisted treatment and psychiatric services is limited. She has dedicated her career to expanding access to care, supporting patients on their journey toward recovery, and addressing critical provider shortages in the region.
• Herzing University - M.S. in Nursing, 2027
• Winona State University - B.S. in Nursing, 2014
• American Nurses Credentialing Center - Psychiatric-Mental Health Specialty, 2012
• Board Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse – ANCC
• RN-BC, Registered Nurse – Board Certified
• American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC)
• Cotter Schools – Parent Volunteer (2005 – Present)
Assisted with school events, classroom support, fundraisers, and sporting events
Areas of Specialization/Expertise
- Inpatient psychiatric care for adults, adolescents, and children
- Substance use disorder treatment and detoxification
- Trauma-informed psychiatric care
- Medication-assisted treatment advocacy
- Behavioral health nursing education and supervision
What do you enjoy most about practicing medicine?
What I enjoy most about practicing medicine is that it aligns naturally with my passions. I have always been deeply interested in psychology, neurology, and the complexity of the human mind, and I find it incredibly rewarding to help others through these areas. Beyond the clinical work, I take joy in reading research, staying current with advances in the field, and advocating for those who are underserved or lack the knowledge and resources to advocate for themselves. I am committed to making a meaningful difference in the lives of my patients, ensuring they have someone to represent and support them.