We will look at some or all of the following as a part of the process of helping you (or your child) feel better:
Initial Assessment
Our first meeting will include detailed psychiatric, medical, nutritional, work/school, and lifestyle history, (e.g. sleep, exercise, relationships, meditation, etc). I will have already reviewed forms you completed in advance Ideally I will speak with your therapist and review any records that you forward to me.
Medications
People typically see me due to my expertise with medication; therefore, this is something I typically address. This may include starting a medication or changing them, taking into account past and current symptoms and/or medications you (or your child) have previously tried. It also may include tapering medications, which is an art and oftentimes complex. We will work together and find the best solution for YOU.
Therapy
This is often an important component in optimal mental health. When a person is in therapy, it’s very important that you are seeing a therapist who is an expert in the type of therapy you need. Most people I see are already in therapy. For you, I will work in concert with your (or your child’s) therapist to make sure we are all working together on your goals. If you are not already in therapy, I may very well refer you to one of the excellent therapists in our community. I am trained in therapy and will do that with certain people.
Lab tests may be suggested
We may look to see if there is a medial cause for what you’re struggling with.
Nutrition
Eating patterns will be considered, and suggestions may be given on sustainable changes to implement. I work with an excellent nutritional counselor who I can refer you to if necessary to help address all sorts of nutritional issues and plans.
Sleep
Many people struggle with poor sleep. This may be the cause of a problem you (or your child) are dealing with or a symptom of an underlying condition. We will try to understand the reason behind the struggle with sleep and optimize sleep patterns to restore healthy balance.
Exercise
This is sometimes the best thing a person can do to help themselves feel better and something I will want to discuss with you.
Mindfulness and Meditation
These often help with anxiety and other mental health concerns. It may be hard to believe, but just a few minutes per day can help a person feel rapid and profound changes.
Psychotherapy
Most people I see are already in therapy. For you, I will work in concert with your (or your child’s) therapist to make sure we are all working together on your goals. If you are not already in therapy, I may very well suggest it. I am trained in therapy and will do that with certain people. With others, I have a network of excellent therapists I can refer you to. Different sorts of therapy help with different things. It’s important that who you see a therapist who is expert in the type of therapy you need.