INITIAL EVALUATION
Dr. Segal works with adults to treat mood, anxiety, attention related struggles or a host of other psychiatric issues. During the initial evaluation, Dr. Segal spends a great deal of time with the patient gathering information about his or her struggles and overall background. Dr. Segal conducts a thorough assessment of all biological, psychological and social factors contributing to current symptoms. This process includes reviewing the intake questionnaire, 50 minute discussion with the patient, consultation with therapist and/or other providers if desired, and review of any additional documentation such as psychological evaluations, medical records, and labs. At the end of the evaluation, Dr. Segal spends ample time with the patient discussing the findings, diagnoses, and comprehensive plan for treatment. The initial evaluation process can at times take two sessions depending on the complexity of the presenting issues.
COMMON PROBLEMS TREATED
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Mood swings
- Emotional reactivity
- Self-injurious behaviors
- Anger issues
- Obsessions & compulsions
- Trauma
- Inattention/hyperactivity
MEDICATION MANAGEMENT
Medication can play an important role in improving and supporting a person’s mood, cognition, and ability to function optimally. Prior to prescribing any medication, Dr. Segal works with each individual to identify specific target symptoms that will be tracked in order to monitor improvement. This determination of particular and relevant symptoms provides a reference for both the patient and Dr. Segal to determine whether the new medication is actually helping. Dr. Segal takes the responsibility of recommending medication for adults very seriously. He aims to develop a strong understanding of the symptoms that are affecting his patients through thoughtful dialogue and comprehensive assessment. Dr. Segal incorporates knowledge from published clinical research studies, his wealth of personal clinical experience, and information about the individual person to determine which medications will be the most effective available option. Genetic testing may also provide additional data to help in determining the appropriate medication choice for a patient in certain cases. If this is the case for you, Dr. Segal will walk you through the process and will administer the testing in his office as well as explain all of the clinical relevant findings once the results have been obtained. The actual testing process is quite simple and pain free and only involves a swab of the cheek or mouth rinse.
INDIVIDUAL THERAPY
Dr. Segal has openings for adult individual therapy patients. His therapeutic approach incorporates a blend of cognitive, interpersonal, psychodynamic and supportive psychotherapies. The therapeutic approach is individually tailored to meet the needs of each person and family. Therapy can be short-term with specified outcome measures identified in collaboration with the individual or can be longer term depending on the nature of the underlying struggles and the overall goals for the particular patient.