A few words about Psychiatry : People seek psychiatric treatment for many different reasons.  Some have chemical imbalances that cause unpleasant symptoms from which they seek relief.  Others may be having a diffcult time with life circumstances or have noticed patterns of behavior that prevent them from moving forward in their lives.  For whatever reason you may be seeking treatment, you should commend yourself......it is not always easy to ask for help.

     Many patients wonder what it will be like to see a psychiatrist.  In our first meeting, called the consultation, I will ask you many questions about yourself and your life and I will take notes.  There will be questions about your family, schooling and employment, medical history, relationships and a focus on why you are seeking treatment at this time.  The first session ususally lasts 2 to 4 hours; the first 2-3 hours are spent gathering information and the last hour is spent discussing and explaining my findings and treatment options and answering any questions you may have.  Should treatment be needed, we would then discuss and make arrangements for that treatment.  Patients are under no obligation to engage in treatment with me following the consultation, nor am I required to treat them.

     Treatment ususally consists of some type of psychotherapy and sometimes medications as well.  Before prescribing any medication I take time to educate my patients about what the medication is for, what it will do, what the possible side effects are, as well as the rationale and alternatives.  Although I am a medical doctor, the treatment I provide is very different than that of an internist or surgeon.  I do not dictate treatment, but rather suggest and educate the patient about it; it is up to the patient to decide what to do.

     'Psychotherapy' is a rather vague term.  There a numerous types of psychotherpy; some are directed towards changing behavior, some focus more on feelings, some focus on interactions with others.  Some psychotherapies focus on one specific area of life while others have a broader approach.  All therapies involve a dialogue between the psychiatrist and the patient, often times with the patient doing much of the talking.  It is sometimes difficult for people to be honest and trusting with a person they have just met, but this is important if one is to do well  in psychotherapy.  I offer all of my patients a confidential and nonjudgmental environment in which they feel safe to express their feelings and concerns.

    Psychotherapy is often hard work.  It may be unpleasant or embarassing to talk about certain things.  It is ususal for there to be ups and downs.  There may be homework assignments such as keeping journals, practicing behaviors, or thinking about things between sesions.  Ultimately, the work pays off and patients are able to initiate changes that bring about greater satisfaction and enjoyment of life.  Often times, the goal of therapy is not to solve all of life's problems, but to develop skills and strengths to cope with them better.

  My approach is tailored to the individual needs of each patient and takes into consideration multiple aspects of each.  I examine effects that biology may play in each patient as well as that of individuial temperment, behavior, and personal life experiences.