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. I invite you to explore my Integrated Mental Health blog.

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, I've seen first hand how truly integrated the mind and body are, and how central lifestyle is to our well-being. So I don't believe that brief medications visits are 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 or lifestyle factor has been missed. Meds can be useful, but I believe they are most useful when they are one part of an integrated treatment approach.

Therapeutic approach

Our mind's struggles may be rooted in many intersecting factors. My approach to psychotherapy is empathic and interactive, analytic and flexible with what you need. We may explore your early family dynamics. For some work or lifestyle problems, a coaching approach may be best.  I direct a health coaching project, and know how useful and practical this can be. I know as an 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.

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There is a candle in your heart, ready to be kindled. There is a void in your soul, ready to be filled. You feel it, don't you?
   RUMI