Hunter Yarnell

Dedicated and disciplined pre-medical student with extensive clinical experience in psychiatric care, research involvement, and a strong foundation in leadership and personal accountability. As a Psychiatric Nursing Assistant at Geisinger, I gained direct experience managing patients in acute psychiatric settings while developing skills in communication, crisis management, teamwork, and patient advocacy. Participated in research involving the EmPATH Unit, contributing to work focused on emergency psychiatric stabilization and mental health care delivery.

Demonstrated long-term commitment to discipline and performance through competitive bodybuilding and martial arts training, including black belts in karate and jiu jitsu. Additional experience in automotive repair and hands-on problem solving has strengthened adaptability, work ethic, and attention to detail. Raised in a rural Pennsylvania community, developed a strong sense of responsibility, consistency, and service that continues to shape professional goals in medicine. Pursuing a career in community based medicine with a focus on patient-centered, evidence-based care.

Participated in research involving the EmPATH (Emergency Psychiatric Assessment, Treatment, and Healing) Unit at Geisinger, focused on improving the management and stabilization of psychiatric patients in emergency care settings. Contributed to evaluating how specialized psychiatric crisis units can reduce emergency department overcrowding, improve patient outcomes, and provide more efficient, patient-centered mental health care. Presented findings through two research posters and symposium presentations at Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine and Geisinger Henry Hood Research Center. This experience strengthened my understanding of acute psychiatric treatment, interdisciplinary collaboration, and evidence-based approaches to mental health care. 

Conducted independent research on Dissociative Identity Disorder with a focus on diagnostic complexity, trauma-related pathology, and challenges surrounding clinical recognition and treatment. Explored current psychiatric literature and evolving perspectives on dissociative disorders, emphasizing the importance of accurate diagnosis, patient-centered care, and reducing stigma within mental health treatment. This work strengthened my interest in psychiatry and expanded my understanding of complex mental health conditions, psychological trauma, and evidence-based psychiatric practice.

• Earned a black belt in karate, demonstrating long-term discipline, consistency, and structured physical and mental training.
• Received a “Safe Catch” award in an inpatient psychiatric unit for identifying and reporting potential patient safety risks, contributing to a safer clinical environment in high-acuity psychiatric care settings.