During a psychiatric-mental health experience, fifth semester Boise State University nursing students collaborated with staff members and faculty to develop complementary nursing therapies for geriatric-psychiatric clients.  Working on a Mental Health Project for a 22-bed behavioral health care center, they joined with staff members to design and develop interventions for clients to reduce symptoms of agitation, confusion, and suffering, to decrease use of psychotropic medication, and to increase overall functioning.  Divided into 3 groups, each “team” of students generated a separate component of the project.  Following a needs assessment at the facility, specific complementary therapies, such as music, art, massage, therapeutic touch, and stretching exercises were implemented.  Several items for stimulating sensory involvement were used.  Students prepared for the  project through literature review, by participating in training sessions, and by practicing the techniques prior to applying them to clients.  Written protocols were developed for the complementary nursing therapies, and at the conclusion of the project, materials were presented to the Director of Nursing for ongoing client use.  Outcomes were measures by selected rating scales for assessing clients' physiologic measures, symptoms, and changes in psychotropic medication use.  Student and staff evaluations were also performed. (NOTE: This study continues in progress.)