I was interested in the mind and psychology from as young as I can remember, and I came to see in medical school just how impactful the practice of psychiatry can be, in addition to the stigma so many people with psychiatric conditions face. I felt that Psychiatry was something that felt more natural to me than other medical specialties, and I believed it was the field where I could do the most good for the most people, which I still believe to be true to this day.

I don't know that there is a demographic population that I feel I work "best" with, though I do find that people coming in for treatment who are motivated often have better outcomes. Much of the improvement in mental health comes from work done outside of sessions, and the motivation to engage with treatment is a big factor in sustaining that effort in daily life.

Most mental health conditions respond well to psychotherapy, and it should be an integral part of almost any treatment plan. Even though I do prescribe medication, I often find that therapeutic interventions make a greater difference in people's lives. Effective psychotherapy is worth every penny.

The first session is best characterized as me getting to know the person across from me (or on the screen) and understanding the most pressing issues they are facing that are bringing them into treatment. Often, there will also be education regarding medications, diagnoses, follow-up, etc., to make sure people are informed of what to expect going forward. Depending on the situation, some initial sessions will also include the prescribing of medication.

I was born with a congenital heart defect and had several medical procedures from a young age, which led me to realize that we all have to rely on others for help at times. It can feel difficult to reach out for help, and I encourage others to view that as a strength, as it is being honest when assessing our life circumstances and determining what we are capable of managing in that moment. Having received literally life-saving help from a young age, I try to pay it forward to others who are reaching out in their time of need.

It starts with what concerns the patient is coming to treatment for, and is guided by what the patient identifies as feasible for them to take on at the moment. For example, not everyone who has experienced a traumatic life experience is prepared to start trauma-focused therapy when they are first entering treatment, so even if it will likely be helpful to the person overall, it would not be appropriate to push that treatment modality onto them at first.