Heather R Skomski
PMHNP-BC
Psychiatric Mental health Nurse Practitioner
To ensure I had a well-rounded nursing experience, I worked in a level one trauma Emergency Department while in graduate school. This was a very different experience and environment, but equally as valuable. Upon completing my MSN and certification as a nurse practitioner, I returned to the cancer center,
in hematology. My role included seeing mostly benign hematology conditions, mainly those with Sickle Cell Anemia, and some oncology patients as well. My patients have taught me so much, humbled me, and the gifts of their stories and journeys are invaluable. Working in healthcare has many ups and downs, but it is an honor.
Early in my career I recognized how impactful and central mental health was to a patients medical illness. This is true for all people. As I grew as a provider in knowledge and understanding, the need to treat a patient more holistically became evident to me. I have a passion for those with chronic illnesses and the impact mental health has in their lives and level of function. This drove me to return to graduate school, obtaining a post-graduate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner certification. While, I consider myself a lifetime learning, I am prepared to treat patients with behavioral and mental health conditions and needs.
I am comfortable with treating patients of all ages, genders, sexual orientations, races, ethnicities and cultures. I enjoy working in a diverse workforce and patient load. For the past 5 years most of my patients have been African American, Hispanic, Middle Eastern, or Asian. I have learned through my patients of the unique struggles they have had, whether they are foreign-born and immigrated to US or born and raised in US like myself. I am sensitive to the cultural differences and always open to learn about a patients journey that leads them to seek care at Forest Path. I believe in shared decision making and that the patient is an active member of care planning. One of my strongest assets as a nurse practitioner is the ability to offer and guide patient empowerment through education and the development of treatment plans. This is a skill, I continue to improve upon with every patient encounter, and am always delighted by how my patients help me grow as a professional.
Heather Skomski, PMHNP-BC
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Healing Support: Heather Skomski's Specialties
A mental health condition that includes features of both schizophrenia and mood disorders. Individuals experience psychotic symptoms similar to schizophrenia, along with mood episodes (manic or depressive).
Major Depressive Disorder: A mood disorder characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest in activities. It significantly impacts daily functioning and can lead to various emotional and physical problems such as changes in sleep, appetite, and energy levels.
A condition marked by excessive, uncontrollable worry about various aspects of life. People with GAD often experience restlessness, difficulty concentrating, and physical symptoms like muscle tension.
Life Transitions: Psychological challenges arising from significant life changes such as marriage, divorce, career changes, retirement, loss, or relocation. These transitions can trigger adjustment disorders, anxiety, or depression. Normal reactions may become problematic when adjustment difficulties persist or significantly impact functioning. Treatment focuses on coping strategies and adapting to change.
Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): A neurodevelopmental disorder affecting attention, impulse control, and activity levels. Symptoms include difficulty focusing, organizational challenges, forgetfulness, and in some cases hyperactivity. Impacts academic, professional, and social functioning. Treatment typically involves behavioral strategies, educational accommodations, and sometimes medication. Presentation can change with age.
Adults with Comorbid Medical Complexities: Mental health challenges in adults complicated by concurrent medical conditions. May include depression with diabetes, anxiety with chronic pain, or mood disorders with neurological conditions. These combinations require careful medication management and coordination between healthcare providers. Treatment plans must consider both physical and mental health needs.
Patients with Chronic Illness(es): Long-term medical conditions often accompanied by emotional challenges including depression, anxiety, and adjustment difficulties. Common issues include coping with physical limitations, managing treatment regimens, and dealing with uncertainty. Mental health support focuses on adaptation, coping strategies, and maintaining quality of life despite physical challenges.
Patients with Oncology History/Treatment: Psychological challenges specific to cancer diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship. Includes managing anxiety about recurrence, coping with treatment side effects, dealing with body image changes, and navigating relationship changes. May involve grief, trauma, and existential concerns. Treatment focuses on emotional support, coping strategies, and quality of life enhancement.
Heather Skomski's Patient Care Mix:
Adolescents (12-17), Adults (18-64), Seniors (65+)
Heather Skomski's Care Philosophy: From Application to Psychiatric Practice
I define diversity as what makes us unique from one another. This can include many things: race, ethnicity, age, geography, philosophical principles, life goals, family and childhood history, sex, and sexuality. The list can go on and on really! I have always enjoyed working in a diverse environment, striving to learn others' perspectives and viewpoints to grow in my practice and personal life through a diverse and fluid team.
In my 10 years as a registered nurse, and nearly five years as a nurse practitioner, I have worked in an urban inner-city hospital. This is a large main campus and academic center, a teaching institution. I have encountered patients and co-workers from all walks of life, and I enjoy hearing and learning how healthcare has helped and hindered them. I currently work with a patient population that is unfortunately frequently discriminated against and underserved. My patients are mostly of a different race and usually culture than myself, and so are most of my co-workers. While this can seem intimidating or uncomfortable to some (I have had colleagues mention this), I value this and receive it as a gift. I have learned so much from my co-workers and patients and have grown to be a better and well-rounded provider because of this.
Establishing trust, and being transparent, forthcoming, and honest has always been my approach with patients. Knowing my patients have experienced hardships and discrimination, and many have trauma history, I respect their needs and go at their pace in establishing this relationship. I strongly believe in "meeting patients where they are".
I thoroughly enjoy working with diverse communities and populations. I have cared for and worked with both BIPOC and LGBTQAI+ individuals and have never limited my care or comfort level in caring for individuals who are different from myself. I enjoy learning about cultures and backgrounds different from my own; it is a value you cannot add through education.
Advocating for patients is part of my job most every day, and some days it can be very complex. A few of our patients have significant trauma histories and PTSD, unfortunately with little to no treatment history. When these individuals experience pain or are triggered by known or unknown factors, often their behavior becomes very challenging. I work in a consult role as an advocate for these patients to help manage their pain and often spend significant time educating staff and other providers on how trauma can bring on this behavior. This includes de-escalation tactics, trauma-informed care recommendations, and behavior plans for patients.
Young Adolescents (13-18yo), Older Adolescents to Adults (19 - 64yo), Oldies but Goodies (65yo+)
Alcohol & Substance Abuse Disorders, Mood Disorders (Depression, Bipolar), Anxiety Disorders, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Adult Psychiatry, BIPOC Care, Medical Trauma. I am comfortable with all populations, but this is where most of my experience lies.
I am inspired by those who bettered themselves in the face of adversity. I believe in working hard, but also working smart and empowering and inspiring others to do the same. My father is an inspiration to me, as he grew up poor with a less-than-ideal mother and no father. He strived to become a successful business owner and a wonderful family man.
These are my people!!
Humor is an important part of my practice and the way I engage with clients. I don't really use humor; I prefer to be more calm and focused.
It's on my list to watch; I always enjoy his movies!
Insurance Plans in Heather Skomski's Network
Anthem Blue Cross Blueshield
Cigna
Aetna
Heather Skomski's Digital Doorway
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