Chisom Duru

I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a strong foundation in evidence-based, compassionate care. I work in community mental health with individuals navigating serious mental illness and substance use, often in high-acuity, real-world settings. My background in nursing shapes a holistic approach that looks beyond symptoms to the whole person, and my style is collaborative, structured, and focused on helping clients understand the “why” behind their treatment. I have experience in street psychiatry, outreach, and intensive treatment teams, and I stay current through regular grand rounds and training in new therapies and modalities. Above all, I aim to provide practical, respectful care that supports stability, recovery, and dignity.

My approach to care is thoughtful, collaborative, and deeply respectful of each person’s story. I use a psychoanalytic and psychodynamic lens to help clients understand patterns, emotions, and experiences that shape how they feel and relate to the world. At the same time, I’m very practical about medication management and work closely with clients to find the right fit that supports both symptom relief and everyday functioning. My style is warm, affirming, and empowering, and I aim to create a space where people feel safe, understood, and not judged. I welcome clients from all walks of life and tailor care to each individual’s goals, values, and strengths.

In our first session, you can expect a calm, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where your story truly matters. We’ll spend time getting to know you through a general history of your symptoms, medical background, mental health experiences, and social context so I can understand the full picture, not just a diagnosis. My approach to recovery is client-focused and collaborative, and my goal is to help you feel informed, understood, and empowered through clear psychoeducation and open conversation about what you’re going through. I work carefully with medication management, always starting with non-addictive options first and only considering controlled substances when truly appropriate and after other approaches have been tried. By the end of the session, we’ll begin to identify goals that feel realistic and meaningful to you, and you’ll leave with a clearer sense of direction, support, and next steps.