Psychiatry has lost its way

Understandably 'holistic psychiatry' may sound like an oxymoron. But I believe that good psychiatry practice treats the whole of who you are: mind, body, spirit and cultural position. 

When I trained at UCSF, psychotherapy and pharmacology were both emphasized. Then psychiatry became mostly focused on medication management. Now neuroscience is building a case for how brain health is impacted by mindfulness, relationships, exercise and nutrition. As a long-time faculty member of a primary care residency in a culturally diverse, safety-net hospital, I've seen first hand how truly integrated the mind and body are, and how central lifestyle is to our well-being. That is why I sought out both a 2 year fellowship in integrative medicine. Thus, I've come to believe that brief medications visits are not enough. 

If you have been on meds, and still are not feeling your best, perhaps a change in approach may help. Often 'less is more' when it comes to meds. Or maybe an important medical, psychological or lifestyle factor has been missed. Meds are sometimes useful, but I believe they are most useful when they are one part of an integrative health treatment approach.

Therapeutic approach

Our mind's struggles may be rooted in many intersecting factors. My approach to psychotherapy is empathic and interactive, looks at psychodynamics, and is flexible with what you need. It is also informed by Sensorimotor Psychotherapy (I completed Level I training), which is mindfulness oriented, body-based and trauma-informed. We may explore your early family dynamics, or do mind-body based work in addition to talk therapy. For some work or lifestyle problems, a coaching approach may be best.  I directed a health coaching project for nearly 10 years, and know how useful and practical this can be. I know as a long time educator in a motivational interviewing counseling approach and self psychology that lasting change is more likely when its based on inner motivations and a strengthened sense of self.

Patient testimonial: "Dr Abramowitz is really kind. She doesn't just throw medications at you she takes in all aspects of the person. She has knowledge in addiction and alternative ways to deal with problems apart from just medication. I trust her completely and I would recommend her to anyone who needed a psychiatrist."
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We are what we think. All that we are arises with our thoughts.
​With our thoughts we make the world.
   The Buddha