Susan Clark, PMHNP

I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner. I earned my Direct Entry MSN from Marquette University and completed post-graduate psychiatric NP certification at UW-Milwaukee. My background includes psychiatric emergency care, leadership as a Director of Psychiatric Services, and teaching nursing students.

I focus on depression, anxiety, PTSD, and bipolar disorder, with experience treating ADHD and OCD. I combine medication management with supportive therapy and explain the reasoning behind recommendations. I provide culturally competent, affirming care and strive to create a safe space for honest conversations.

I take time to understand your history, concerns, and goals before developing an individualized plan together. I explain medication options, benefits, and potential side effects so you know what to expect. I check in closely early in treatment and adjust care based on your response.

I have over 20 years in healthcare, beginning as a caregiver, CNA, LPN, and RN before becoming an FNP and later a PMHNP. I earned my ADN from Gogebic Community College, BSN and MSN/FNP from Herzing University, and post-master’s PMHNP Certificate from the University of Cincinnati. I have worked in home health, primary care, urgent care/ER, and outpatient psychiatry, and have served as Psychiatric Director for HOPS and Clinical Adjunct Faculty for Concordia University.

I believe rapport is essential to high-quality care. I strive to create a warm, caring environment where you feel comfortable, heard, and supported. I value open communication and take time to learn your unique story.

I begin with a thorough review of your medical and psychiatric history, then work with you to identify your goals and create an individualized plan. I view treatment as a partnership and want you to feel heard and involved. I use supportive psychotherapy, education, and resources such as books or workbooks, and encourage therapy when helpful. I explain treatment options and view medication as one “tool in the toolbox” while working toward the root of concerns and empowering you to heal and reach your goals.

I am a dual board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner with more than 23 years of registered nursing experience and 18+ years as a nurse practitioner. My background spans primary and behavioral healthcare, academia, publishing, and professional presentations. I completed my nursing education at Milwaukee Area Technical College and Alverno College and my NP education at Concordia University Wisconsin.

I believe effective mental healthcare begins with listening. I strive to create a welcoming, respectful, and nonjudgmental environment. I take a whole-person, collaborative approach that considers your physical health, emotional well-being, lifestyle, relationships, and goals. I value open communication, education, trust, and shared decision-making.

I begin with a comprehensive assessment of your concerns, symptoms, medical and psychiatric history, medications, life circumstances, and goals. Together, we create an individualized treatment plan. When medication is appropriate, I discuss benefits, risks, side effects, alternatives, and your preferences. Follow-ups focus on progress, effectiveness, tolerability, and needed adjustments to support meaningful improvement in well-being, functioning, relationships, and quality of life.