Comprehensive initial assessments are used to initiate treatment or provide a second opinion. I ask patients to complete an evaluation form prior to our first meeting together. During our first meeting, we go over a broad review of your symptoms and I review previous records and confer with other treatment providers such as therapists, primary care doctors, or psychiatrists. When appropriate, I also confer with friends or family members to gather additional history. We create a biographical sketch focusing on habits, personality styles, and physical health. I recommend laboratory or radiological testing as appropriate and provide my initial treatment recommendations.

Medications can be tremendously helpful in treating certain mental health conditions. I am highly trained in the safe and appropriate use of psychiatric medications, including complex medication management cases. I am able to provide specialized services including: multiple medications, ADHD management, long-acting injectable antipsychotics, clozapine management, perinatal counseling and safe use of psychotropics in pregnancy. My approach involves using medications only when appropriate and necessary, and ordering laboratory or radiological testing as appropriate. The frequency of medication management visits varies according to the acuity of the illness.

My unique approach to therapy is eclectic, combining elements of various psychotherapeutic techniques including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Exposure and Response Prevention, and Mentalization-Based Psychotherapy. I believe that a personalized approach to therapy and a strong working relationship between the therapist and patient are the best predictors of success. Therapy visits are typically 50 minutes, but vary according to each individual patient’s treatment plan. Many patients consolidate medication management services with psychotherapy visits.

Pharmacogenomic tests can be valuable tools in assessing medication outcomes. I am able to order and analyze the results of genetic testing to help determine which medication is the best fit for my patients’ specific challenges. The test can be delivered to your home and returned via a prepaid envelop with your DNA sample collected from simple cheek swabs. The results are sent directly to my office for me to review and discuss with you.

In addition to regular psychotherapy, I provide support during periods of grief and stress to help patients work through the various stages and range of emotions they experience.

I have extensive training in consultations to assess the likely effectiveness and appropriateness for treatment with ketamine and TMS. Your psychiatric and medical history will be obtained, with careful consideration for any contraindications to the interventions. After our evaluation, I will refer you to a trusted doctor who can provide TMS or ketamine treatment.