Patient Services
Comprehensive Psychiatric Evaluation
The first step in receiving the right help for a mental health problem is receiving a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation. I take special care in gathering the right information to determine the most likely diagnosis and most effective treatment.
I consider all aspects of one’s situation when determining the best treatment plan – including information about health, illness, and past treatment (medical and psychiatric); family health; information about child development; academic/work performance and friends; family relationships; a thorough psychiatric interview; and if necessary, laboratory studies such as blood tests, imaging studies, or special assessments (for example, psychological, educational, speech and language evaluations).
I work closely with patients and their family members from the very beginning to ensure that we have identified the key problems and are adequately addressing each of them.
Psychotherapy
I use psychotherapy as the primary treatment to help patients and families understand and resolve problems, modify behavior, and make positive changes in their lives.
I practice Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) - a time limited and research proven type of psychotherapy that emphasizes identifying maladaptive patterns of thinking or behaving, and replacing these patterns with more balanced thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Positive results are usually seen within the first month of treatment. I provide CBT for individuals, families and couples.
Medication Management
I take a conservative approach to prescribing medicine, and reserve this option only for instances where the potential benefits of treatment outweigh the risks. Some problems are so severe and persistent that they would have serious negative consequences for the patient and family if untreated, and psychotherapy may be more effective if combined with medication.
As we are learning more about the safety and efficacy of most psychotropic medications in adults and adolescents, I help patients and families stay as informed as possible regarding potential side effects and closely monitor the progress of patients on medication that I prescribe. See Medication Philosophy for more information.
Considering a psychiatrist for you or a family member? Call Dr. Taylor's office for an evaluation. (973) 540-1656.
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