As a child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist, I approach the assessment and care of my clients with the depth and breadth of a systems approach, assessing the multidirectional roles of school and work, peers, romantic partners, families, parents, neuropsychological/developmental issues, and medical issues. I am active in communicating with parents and teachers, and I advocate for my patients in and outside the classroom and workplace. 

 

Exercise (e.g., aerobic exercise, walking, weightlifting, yoga, pilates, and  martial arts), nutrition, healthful eating habits, and meditation are encouraged as well.  Cultural and spiritual factors are integral to one's being and therefore to one's assessment and  treatment. 

 

Minimizing drug and alcohol use is important for the attainment and maintenance of mental health and well-being. If I feel drug and/or alcohol use is interfering with the treatment plan, I will recommend a formal consultation with a substance/alcohol use specialist.

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For parents of child and adolescent patients, it's important to validate the positive, transformative role they play in their child's life, while examining possible complicating roles, and to assess how well they are coping with their child's difficulties. A child or adolescent with psychiatric and/or medical difficulties can fuel parent/family stress. When important, I urge parents to consider individual or couples treatment for themselves and/or family therapy for the family. 

 

When appropriate, I will recommend individual psychotherapy, group therapy, DBT skills training groups, neuropsychological evaluations, medical assessments, school consultations, support groups, or whatever else may be useful for the treatment of the patient.

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