Philosophy on Mental Health
I believe that to have “well being” one must achieve a state of balance. The forces that affect all humans (such as medical illness, loss of relationships, loss of dreams, changes in our physical surroundings, or social and financial strain) can cause distress or dysfunction. Most often, things will work themselves out and we regain a better footing; we learn, we grow, or we manage. At other times, these strains take over our biological functions and we become physically ill. As a psychiatrist, I see my role as helping a patient identify disruptive forces and to helping bring back their state of well-being. As a partner in the recovery process, I bring my knowledge and experience as a physician and a therapist to help each individual in a way that is compatible with his or her values and capabilities.
Education and Training
I earned my undergraduate in Environmental Health at the University of Georgia. I attended Medical School at the University of Texas at Houston and completed my psychiatry residency at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine (Western Psychiatric Clinic- WPIC). At WPIC I obtained specific training under the leadership of experts in the research fields of Eating Disorders, Mood Disorders, and Consultation Psychiatry. I have eighteen years combined clinical experience and have practiced in the Columbia/Baltimore area since 1994, including four years with Sheppard Pratt Hospital in Towson. My referrals come from a variety of specialists, hospitals and general medical practices.
Services
I am Board Certified in the specialty of psychiatry. I treat a vast array of emotional and cognitive problems including but not limited to Anxiety Disorders (Panic, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Generalized Anxiety, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) as well as Attention Deficit Disorder in Adolescents and Adults. Specific services include psychiatric evaluations, medication management, individual psychotherapy and stress reduction coaching.
Personal Statement
I spend a lot of my off time trying to put into practice all the things I recommend to others…I’m a pretty good cook, I enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, as well as practicing the accordion and reading.