| What is a Psychiatrist? |
A medical doctor who specializes in behavioral health. |
| What is a Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist? |
In addition to the four years of residency training in general adult psychiatry, they elect to complete two additional years of specialized training in child and adolescent psychiatry. |
| Why choose a Psychiatrist over a psychologist or other therapist? |
In addition to being fully trained in psychotherapeutic techniques, a Psychiatrist conducts medication evaluations and prescribes medication if necessary. |
| When are medications necessary? |
Many psychiatric conditions are the result of a biochemical or physiological disturbance that can only be corrected with medication. |
| Are medications safe? |
Although some common mild side effects (headache, nausea, change in sleep and appetite) can occur temporarily they generally subside. Contemporary medications are generally safe in all age groups for short term and long term use. |
| What is the average duration of treatment? |
Treatment duration varies from case to case but a minimum of six months is recommended. |
| How available and accessible are you? |
I can be reached 24 hrs/ day and 7 days a week by cellular phone. Appointment times are generally 9am to 6pm, Monday through Friday with some evenings and Saturday hours. |
| How long are initial evaluations? Follow ups? Frequency? |
Initial evaluations are 1 hr to 1 hr and a half. Weekly psychotherapy sessions are 50 min. Monthly medication follow ups are 30 min. to 1 hr. |
