SERVICES PROVIDED
MY PHILOSOPHY:
Effective psychiatric treatment is truly life-changing. Emotional distress, painful, intrusive thoughts, ruptures in important relationships, and quality of life disturbances are not abstract concepts, but tangible phenomena that can be explored, understood, and, most importantly, changed.
EVALUATION AND TREATMENT:
The initial session is a comprehensive, hour-long evaluation which allows me to understand your current symptoms and difficulties and learn about important aspects of your past psychiatric, medical, social, educational, work, and family histories. At the end of the session, we will collaborate to determine the best course of individualized treatment, one which emphasizes your strengths and preferences.
I prioritize professionalism and non-judgmental curiosity to ensure that people feel comfortable during their initial visit. Most people are surprised by how much relief they feel from being able to speak openly to a person who is specifically trained to understand psychological and emotional distress.
I offer years of training and expertise in different forms of therapy and the use of medication, when necessary, to treat psychiatric complaints. Depending on the exact nature of your difficulties, we will determine the most effective treatment plan. Session frequency can vary from weekly to every 3 months, and medications may or may not be included in your treatment.
I emphasize the importance of avoiding communication delays and will quickly return phone calls and emails.
MEDICATION MANAGEMENT:
Many of my patients have started and completed a course of medications during their treatment. Some have continued therapy following the completion of a successful medication course. Ultimately, it depends on you, what you’re going through, and what we agree is going to help the most.
I understand the confusion caused by the mixed messages and stigma surrounding the use of medications. My approach to medication can be summarized in this way: medications are very effective for some people, are more effective in combination with therapy in others, and are not necessary for others. I prescribe medication thoughtfully and avoid their unnecessary use. I value honest communication with all of my patients, and I am receptive to their concerns about medications when considering that option.
We will openly discuss any previous negative experiences with medication before deciding if it is the right option for you.
I do not do “15-minute med checks” in my practice. Prospective patients with suspected ADHD may be referred to specialized testing before I can prescribe stimulant medication.
THERAPY:
Well-designed studies have demonstrated that therapy is not “just talking”: it is a biological treatment that causes extraordinary, beneficial, and long-lasting changes in different structures in the brain.
Many of my patients see me for both therapy and medication management. I was trained in several different types of therapy and integrate elements of Psychodynamic Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Interpersonal Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy into my practice. I discuss different therapeutic options with my patients, and we work together to decide on the best approach for you.
Some people are already seeing therapists, or would benefit from a referral to a therapist who specializes in a specific form of therapy. I am happy to collaborate with therapists while guiding the pharmacological aspect of treatment. All sessions in my practice, even monthly sessions, are 45 minutes, as I have found that a strong therapeutic alliance leads to the best outcomes.
I know session fees for psychiatrists in New York are quite high, and that this can be a deterrent from seeking care. Please note that the fees are comprehensive. My patients can all contact me directly and expect a rapid response and there are no hidden or unexpected charges.