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TYPES OF TREATMENT

  • Comprehensive initial evaluation

  • CBT/Behavioral Activation/Motivational Interviewing

  • Nature-Based Therapies (e.g. exercise/yoga/nutrition)

  • Virtual Reality Exposure Therapy & Deconditioning

  • “De-prescribing” of excessive meds as needed

  • Arts-based therapies when appropriate

  • Family sessions when permitted

FAQ: What does a 'comprehensive initial exam' include?  Review of current symptoms & stressors; Review of current & past psychotropic meds; medical problems & “medical meds”; Review of lifestyle (sleep; exercise; diet; outdoor time; social supports; work; hobbies & interests); Review of herbs; supplements; alternative meds; non-prescribed substances; Review of past symptoms and treatments—focusing on what helped vs. harmed; Review of family history; and Reviews of relevant cultural, geographical, religious, racial background.

PHILOSOPHIES OF TREATMENT

  1.  Natural approaches & state-of-the-art meds & evidence-based therapies.

  2.  Evidence-based “culinary medicine” for foods and moods.

  3.  Sinclair-style treatment (vs. abstinence) for alcohol overuse.

  4.  Meds to reduce alcohol craving & allow controlled drinking.

  5.  Buprenorphine plus supportive therapy for opioid dependence.

  6.  Family sessions encouraged when permitted.

  7.  Adjunctive art-based therapies for visual Artists.

  8.  Recently recognized “Nature is Nurture” therapy (exercise/forest bathing, et al).

  9.  “De-prescribing” when over-medicated; avoidance of side effects.

  10.  Focus on symptoms that interfere with living comfortably or productively.

  11.  Recognition & cultivation of special skills of neurodivergent people.

  12.  Conditions that co-exist w food or alcohol or other drug overuse.

  13.  Affordability as well as efficacy (no pharma funding).

ABOUT ADD/ADHD

Recently, Google has informed us that the most commonly searched mental health term is ADHD. Interestingly, 1 out of 4 people in America believe they have ADHD. However, American Psychiatric Association data shows us that 95% of people— or 19 out of 20 people—who believe they have ADHD do not have ADHD but have another condition that impacts function and focus and in most cases is easily treatable -- If it is identified. That said, if you just want a quick script for stimulants, no questions asked, this is NOT the place for you. However, if you want a more thoughtful and comprehensive evaluation to help your feelings and functioning, please Contact Dr. Packer.

Monarch Butterflies with Flower
Another Butterfly with Flowers
Yellow Butterfly with Flowers
Butterfly with VERY LARGE Yellow Flower

ATTENTION, ARTISTS!

Since artists communicate through their chosen medium, we encourage artists to show their creations as supplements to verbal interviews.

WRITER'S BLOCK may reflect depression or compulsive traits (which increase during depression), and impair concentration, promote indecisiveness, needless self-criticism, and encourage self-medication with drink or drugs. Relief is here!
DRINKING OR DRUG PROBLEMS may stem from genetic issues rather than weak willpower. Luckily, safe effective meds (not Antabuse) can curb the urge.  We support moderation management or Sinclair Method as much as AA and abstinence.
BINGE EATING BREAKTHROUGHS show that meds that ease alcohol cravings often control bingeing. Treatments for accompanying mood disorders and OCD are available.

© 2024 by Sharon Packer, M.D.

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