Understanding Psychiatry
Psychiatry is a medical specialty focused on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders. As a branch of medicine, psychiatry approaches mental health through a biological, psychological, and social lens, considering how these factors interact to influence a person’s wellbeing.
Psychiatrists are medical doctors (MD or DO) who complete specialized training in mental health after medical school, equipping them to evaluate both the mental and physical aspects of psychological issues.
Our Psychiatry Services
The Role of Psychiatrists
Psychiatrists are uniquely qualified to understand the complex relationship between mental and physical health. Their medical training allows them to:
- Conduct thorough psychological and physical assessments
- Order and interpret laboratory tests and brain imaging studies
- Diagnose mental health conditions according to established criteria
- Prescribe medications when appropriate
- Provide various forms of psychotherapy
- Deliver treatments like electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) or transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS)
- Distinguish between mental illnesses and physical conditions that might present with psychological symptoms
Common Conditions Treated
Psychiatrists diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions, including:
- Mood disorders (depression, bipolar disorder)
- Anxiety disorders (generalized anxiety, panic disorder, phobias)
- Psychotic disorders (schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder)
- Neurodevelopmental disorders (ADHD, autism spectrum disorders)
- Substance use disorders
- Eating disorders
- Personality disorders
- Sleep disorders
- Trauma-related disorders (PTSD, adjustment disorders)
- Neurocognitive disorders (dementia, delirium)
Common Conditions Treated
Psychiatrists diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions, including:
- Mood disorders (depression, bipolar disorder)
- Anxiety disorders (generalized anxiety, panic disorder, phobias)
- Psychotic disorders (schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder)
- Neurodevelopmental disorders (ADHD, autism spectrum disorders)
- Substance use disorders
- Eating disorders
- Personality disorders
- Sleep disorders
- Trauma-related disorders (PTSD, adjustment disorders)
- Neurocognitive disorders (dementia, delirium)
Treatment Approaches in Modern Psychiatry
Contemporary psychiatric care often involves a combination of approaches:
Medication Management
Psychiatric medications can help correct imbalances in brain chemistry that contribute to mental health symptoms. These include antidepressants, antipsychotics, mood stabilizers, anti-anxiety medications, and stimulants.
Psychotherapy
Many psychiatrists provide psychotherapy or “talk therapy” in various forms:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Psychodynamic therapy
- Interpersonal therapy
- Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
- Supportive therapy
Integrated Treatment
Most effective psychiatric care incorporates:
- Collaboration with other healthcare providers
- Consideration of lifestyle factors (sleep, nutrition, exercise)
- Social support enhancement
- Stress management techniques
- When appropriate, family involvement
Emerging Treatments
The field continues to evolve with innovations such as:
- Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS)
- Ketamine and esketamine for treatment-resistant depression
- Digital mental health tools and telepsychiatry
- Precision psychiatry approaches using genetic information
The Difference Between Psychiatrists and Other Mental Health Providers
Understanding the distinct roles of mental health professionals helps patients access appropriate care:
- Psychiatrists: Medical doctors who can prescribe medication and provide psychotherapy
- Psychologists: Doctoral-level providers (PhD/PsyD) who provide psychological testing and therapy but typically cannot prescribe medication
- Therapists/Counselors: Master’s-level providers specializing in various forms of psychotherapy
- Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners: Advanced practice nurses who can diagnose and, in most states, prescribe medications
When to Seek Psychiatric Care
Consider consulting a psychiatrist when:
- Symptoms significantly impact daily functioning
- Psychological symptoms have a suspected medical cause
- Previous treatments with other providers haven’t been effective
- Medication evaluation or management is needed
- Complex or severe mental health conditions are present
The Future of Psychiatry
The field of psychiatry continues to advance through:
- Increased understanding of the biological basis of mental illness
- Development of more targeted and effective treatments
- Integration of digital technologies for assessment and treatment
- Reduction of stigma around mental health care
- Greater emphasis on preventive approaches
- Focus on personalized treatment plans
Seeking psychiatric help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Mental health conditions are medical conditions that benefit from professional intervention, just like any other health issue.
What You Need to Know About Your Appointment
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A list of your medicines
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Family Medical History
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Your Medical History
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"Dr Mehdi has been my doctor for almost 9 years! He is an excellent psychiatrist with excellent understanding, compassion & insight! He is truly concerned for his patients mental well being and overall health! He takes time to listen and truly gets to know his patients and I truly appreciate all he does to address my problems and concerns!"
JENNIFER ENTREKIN
Patient
Better Mental Health Care is Our Mission
Same Day Appointments are Available.