I have been practicing psychiatry for 30 years in a wide variety of settings. Currently, I maintain a solo office practice in Mill Valley, CA where I see individuals, couples, and families. I believe that psychological and emotional difficulties present a uniquely challenging set of problems for those who suffer. First there are the symptoms themselves, the depression, irritability, confusion, disturbances of sleep and appetite, irrational thoughts or beliefs, difficulty accomplishing tasks on a day-to-day basis. In addition, suffering with these kinds of difficulties changes how a person views himself or herself. Frequently, one can experience shame and even guilt, as well as confusion and doubt when anguish is due to something not nearly as obvious as a broken bone or a fever or cough. Often, this can make it difficult to discuss one’s pain with friends or loved ones for fear of being seen as “crazy”. For many who suffer, by the time they decide to consult a psychiatrist, such as myself, the pain has usually become unbearable.
When you come to my office for your initial consultation visit, you have already taken the most important step: asking for help. My first task is to establish a safe environment in which both you and I can quickly develop a comfortable trust with one another. You want to be able to share as much as necessary for me to be able to help you. At the same time, I want to be able to help you to find relief from your pain and distress as quickly as possible. We begin a collaboration of discussion and inquiry to arrive as quickly as possible at a solution, or even possibly several solutions from which to choose.
Many who come for the first time will have other concerns as well, for example: How much will it cost? Will my insurance cover this? How long will I need to be in treatment? Will I be able to return to normal? These are all good questions. My experience and expertise can provide useful tools to help you get answers.
To me, the important elements of treatment and recovery are compassion, trust, and empowerment. The most challenging obstacles are feelings of helplessness, disappointment and shame. We work together to overcome these obstacles and develop the skills necessary to begin, or in some cases, continue the process of recovery. For more information and to obtain a consultation, please use the email link on my contact page or call my office to set up an appointment.