About Me
As an MD, I provide an effective combination of traditional and holistic psychiatric treatment for adults and youth. My medical training took me through Eugene, Oregeon, New York City, Salt Lake City, and Charlottesville, Virginia. Upon completion of my forensic psychiatry fellowship, I took a position of Assistant Professor at the University of Utah Department of Psychiatry. After three years at the university, I opened a private practice. I am fortunate to have worked in many interesting settings at all levels of care and with all age groups over the years. At the same time, I have maintained a civil and criminal forensic practice. My clinical work focuses on the integration of traditional psychiatry with an understanding and utilization of holistic and wellness practices. People usually come to me for my expertise in psychopharmacology. I am typically called upon to start medications, change medication regimes to something more clinically appropriate, or help a person taper medications in a safe manner.
My interests are traveling worldwide, spending time by any natural body of water, skiing, whitewater kayaking, rafting, and of course, dogs.
My Mission
Integrative Psychiatry blends the beneficial aspects of contemporary psychiatry and its modern advances with complementary healing therapies and wellness practices passed down over generations. The integrative philosophy is a departure from the disease model of modern psychiatry and its tendency to view aspects of the human experience as aberrant and “sick”. Rather, integrative psychiatry takes a more holistic view, one that supports our innate strivings toward a state of good health and balance. The approach is a return to the teachings of Hippocrates who observed, “Natural forces within us are the true healers of disease.”
My Process
Most people (but not all) are referred to me by therapists who feel that medication may be an important part of their clients’ work. They may think that their clients could benefit from starting, changing, reducing, or eliminating medications. Usually, but not always, people who see me are interested in the integrative approach I offer.
I offer an individualized approach to mental health, taking the time to hear and really understand the person in front of me. I know people come to me for relief from very bothersome symptoms and helping you find that relief is important to me. Part of that process is remembering what sorts of things have brought you joy over the years as well as having an idea of what outcomes you are seeking. People come to me to help find relief and I hope to help on your journey to a healthier you.