Ruth Chase has been an outstanding nurse in the Mental Health Unit at Southlake Regional Health Centre since December 2011. She brings with her a wealth of knowledge, expertise, and compassionate care that is evident in her day-to-day work. Ruth completed her nursing education in England, earning qualifications as a Registered Mental Health Nurse, Registered General Nurse, and Certified Midwife. Over the course of her career, she has worked in three countries—England, Barbados, and Canada—always maintaining a dedicated focus on mental health care.
Ruth’s broad and diverse experience spans several esteemed institutions:
Mount Sinai Hospital: Specialized in Dissociative Identity Disorder, Small Group Therapy, and Psychotherapy.
Toronto General Hospital: Specialized in Eating Disorders.
Mackenzie Health: Worked in General Inpatient Mental Health, the Schizophrenia Clinic, and the Day Hospital Program.
Southlake Regional Health Centre: General Inpatient Mental Health.
St. Elizabeth Health Care: Served as a Visiting Nurse for Mental Health patients.
Having worked across a wide range of mental health settings, Ruth has developed a profound understanding of the complexities of the human psyche. She recognizes that circumstances and experiences shape each individual’s mind, and she uses this understanding to guide her compassionate, patient-centered care.
Ruth’s approach to nursing is characterized by her compassion, flexibility, and non-judgmental attitude. Her day-to-day interactions with patients and staff alike demonstrate her adaptability and commitment to excellent care. Numerous times, Ruth has gone above and beyond to accommodate the needs of distressed patients, offering psychoeducation, emotional support, and crisis intervention whenever needed.
She is particularly skilled at working with patients facing dual diagnoses, providing the nuanced, flexible approach they require. Ruth also excels in family interactions, offering support and guidance to caregivers and ensuring that the voices of patients and families are always heard. Her dedication to maintaining high standards of patient autonomy, informed consent, and ethical practice sets her apart.
One of Ruth’s many strengths is her steadfast advocacy for her patients’ physical health needs. She consistently ensures that patients receive necessary physical health examinations and attend hospital specialist appointments during their admission to the mental health unit—demonstrating her commitment to holistic, integrated care. Ruth’s risk assessments and treatment reviews are of the highest standard, and she is recognized by her colleagues as a safe, competent, and highly effective nurse.
In February 2025, Southlake’s Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA) team recognized Ruth for her contributions to Black excellence across the organization. This recognition celebrated her 12 years of dedicated service and highlighted the profound impact that mental health nurses like Ruth have on patients and the broader community.
Ruth’s work is pivotal in helping individuals regain their ability to care for themselves, their families, and others who depend on them. She creates safe, supportive environments where patients can address deeply rooted challenges that often hinder their well-being. While the work can be emotionally demanding, Ruth finds deep fulfillment in standing by those who need her most, offering compassion, dignity, and hope.
Born in Barbados, a small island in the Eastern Caribbean with predominantly African and British influences, Ruth brings a global perspective to her nursing practice. Growing up in such a diverse environment, then pursuing nursing education in England and working internationally, has given Ruth a rich and empathetic understanding of different cultures, beliefs, and life experiences. This cultural awareness informs her approach to care, ensuring that every patient feels seen, respected, and valued.
Beyond her professional achievements, Ruth is also a Registered Metaphysical Minister, having officiated several weddings—including those of Southlake colleagues. Her deep sense of community, spirituality, and service extends far beyond her clinical role, enriching the lives of those around her in countless ways.
Ruth Chase exemplifies the spirit of a Nursing Hero. Through her unwavering commitment to patient care, her exceptional clinical skills, her advocacy for both mental and physical health, and her dedication to supporting families and caregivers, Ruth has made a lasting impact on countless lives. She brings empathy, knowledge, and a profound sense of purpose to every interaction, uplifting patients and inspiring her colleagues.