I'm Sally Summers, and I’m here to support you on your mental health journey. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I bring a compassionate, evidence-based approach to care. With a background in psychology and nursing, I’ve worked with patients of all ages, helping them navigate challenges like anxiety, ADHD, depression, bipolar disorder, and PTSD. I understand that reaching out for help can be difficult, but I’m committed to creating a safe and supportive space where you can feel heard and understood. Together, we’ll work to find the right solutions for you, whether that involves therapy, medication, or a combination of both. My goal is to help you reduce your suffering and empower you to become the best version of yourself.

What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?

During our first session together, my main goal is to get to know you and create a warm, relaxed environment where you feel comfortable and heard. I’m here to support you, and together, we’ll explore what brought you here today. We’ll start with a casual introduction, and I’ll ask you a series of questions to better understand your main concerns. Sometimes, it’s not easy to pinpoint exactly what’s troubling you, and that’s okay—part of my role is to help us figure that out together. Here’s what we’ll cover: - **Review Your Concerns:** We’ll discuss the main reasons you’ve come in, and I’ll listen closely to understand your experience. - **Explore Symptoms and History:** We’ll talk about your current symptoms, when they started, any past traumas, your medical and medication history, and any previous diagnoses or treatments. - **Assess Various Aspects of Your Health:** I’ll ask about things like your educational background, any learning or attention issues, experiences with depression, anxiety, or panic attacks, and any thoughts of self-harm. - **Discuss Diagnostic Screenings:** We’ll go over any diagnostic screenings you’ve completed or may need, and I’ll explain the potential diagnoses in a way that makes sense to you. - **Explore Treatment Options:** After we’ve gathered all the information, we’ll discuss treatment options, including medication if appropriate. I often use first-line treatments, like stimulants for ADHD, because research and my experience show they’re effective. However, treatment is not one-size-fits-all, and I’ll work with you to find what best suits your needs. Throughout our time together, I’ll be open and transparent about everything we discuss. If something isn’t working—whether it’s a medication or part of the treatment plan—I’m here to listen and adjust accordingly. My goal is to find the right balance for you, often through a process of trial and adjustment, ensuring you feel better in the long term. Ultimately, I’m here for you, and my approach is always collaborative and non-judgmental. Together, we’ll work toward a sustained, improved quality of life.

Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.

What makes me unique as a provider is my deep understanding and personal connection to mental health challenges. I have lived with ADHD, anxiety, depression, panic attacks, and insomnia, so I know firsthand how overwhelming and isolating these experiences can be. Coming from a household that didn’t fully understand or address my struggles, I eventually sought counseling and medication management, which transformed my life. This journey has given me a profound empathy and commitment to helping others navigate their mental health. I have a strong history of mental health issues, addiction, and trauma in my family, and I’ve seen both personally and professionally how effective treatment can be. I understand that it’s not just about working hard, eating right, or going to therapy—sometimes, that’s simply not enough. Our genetics and life experiences shape our brain chemistry, and finding the right diagnosis, medication, and therapy can unlock the benefits of your hard work, allowing you to achieve goals you never thought possible. In my practice, I believe in the power of combining medication with therapy for the best outcomes, and I’m committed to using the least amount of medication necessary to achieve your ideal results. I listen intently and sometimes take extra time in sessions because I believe the answers are often in the smallest details. I’m here to really understand your story, because no one is clear-cut, and treatment is complex. My experience working with a wide range of patients, from children to adults, in both outpatient and clinical settings, has equipped me with the skills and knowledge to provide comprehensive and compassionate care. I’ve seen how the right treatment can improve mood, motivation, self-esteem, relationships, and overall well-being, and I’m here to guide you on that journey. I’m passionate about what I do, and I’m good at it because I truly care about my patients. I’m here to help you find the tools that will make the most impact in your daily life, and I’m committed to being with you every step of the way. Together, we’ll navigate the complexities of your mental health, and work towards a sustained, improved quality of life.

Describe the client(s) you are best positioned to serve.

I specialize in providing care to individuals across the lifespan, from young children to adults, who are facing a variety of mental health challenges. If you're experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, or other mood-related issues, I’m here to support you. I’m exceptionally skilled at working with: Children and Adolescents: Whether it’s managing ADHD, anxiety, or mood disorders, I understand the unique developmental and emotional needs of younger patients and work to create a comforting environment for them and their families. Young Adults and Adults: If you’re navigating life transitions, coping with stress, or managing ongoing mental health concerns, I offer tailored support to help you achieve stability and well-being. Individuals with Complex Medication Needs: For those who require specialized psychotropic medication management, I have the expertise to ensure that your treatment is safe, effective, and aligns with your overall health goals. Patients Seeking Integrated Care: I also work with patients who benefit from a combination of therapy and medication management, providing a holistic approach to mental health care. My practice is especially suited for those looking for a compassionate, evidence-based approach to mental health treatment and ready to take positive steps towards improving their overall well-being.

About Sally Summers