Reflecting on Presence and Meaning in Mental Health Nursing: Visit to the Presence Foundation, Utrecht

On 4 June 2026, our delegation of six academics had the privilege of visiting the Presence Foundation in Utrecht, where we participated in a thought-provoking programme exploring meaning-making, spirituality, and religion in mental health nursing. Facilitated by Dr Janneke Weelink, a nurse specialist in mental health care and PhD candidate, the day offered a unique opportunity to reflect on the role of the nurse's inner life in providing compassionate, person-centred care.

The morning sessions explored the historical roots of nursing as a holistic profession, highlighting how spirituality and meaning making have always been integral to health and healing. Participants examined current evidence supporting the role of spirituality in mental health care, while also discussing why many nurses feel hesitant to engage with patients' existential concerns. A key message emerged throughout the day: before nurses can support patients in finding meaning, they must first reflect on and understand their own sources of meaning and purpose.

A highlight of the programme was the introduction of the Bloei Model, presented by Marlot van 't Hof and Mirjam Hulzebosch. This practice-based framework encourages healthcare professionals to reflect on their personal and professional growth, recognising that life experiences, including challenges and suffering, shape the way they care for others. Through guided reflective exercises based on the concept of the "wounded healer," participants explored how their own stories influence their presence as caregivers.

The afternoon featured a rich dialogue between Dutch and South African perspectives on presence in nursing. Members of the South African delegation shared their work on fostering compassionate, reflective practice. Dr Kathleen Froneman presented “Enhancing healthcare through the DREAM Guideline”, demonstrating how reflective practices cultivate presence in nursing. Dr Rudo Ramalisa shared insights into “Mindfulness: Butterfly effect”, illustrating how self-awareness and connectedness strengthen therapeutic relationships and holistic care.

The comparative discussions revealed many shared values across both countries, including the importance of authentic presence, reflection, compassion, and relationship-centred care. While healthcare contexts may differ, the commitment to supporting nurses in caring for both themselves and their patients proved to be a common goal.

Our sincere thanks go to Dr Janneke Weelink, Marlot van 't Hof, Mirjam Hulzebosch, and the Presence Foundation team for their warm hospitality and for creating a space for meaningful dialogue, reflection, and learning. The visit deepened our understanding of the vital connection between the nurse's inner life and the quality of care offered to patients and strengthened the foundation for future international collaboration in nursing education and research.