Traditional Psychiatry

Traditional Psychiatry

Traditional psychiatry relies on the use of two tools: psychological therapies and psychopharmacology (use of medications, etc.). This type of psychiatry best address the following conditions, not limited to, and when the symptom severity is mild to moderate:

  1. Depressive Disorders
  2. Anxiety Disorders
  3. Sleep Disorders
  4. Trauma and Dissociations Disorders
  5. Attention and Focus Deficits
  6. Mood Disorders

Medical evaluations begin with an initial evaluations are 45, 60, and sometimes 90 minutes consisting of a series of questions to obtain a comprehensive psychiatric, medical, and social history. An assessment of the presenting problems as well as an initial wellness plan will be developed.

Who Would Benefit Most from a Traditional Psychiatric Approach?

1. Individuals with Acute or Severe Mental Illness

  • Schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder

  • Bipolar I or II disorder (especially during manic or depressive episodes)

  • Major depressive disorder, particularly moderate to severe

  • Psychotic disorders (e.g., delusions, hallucinations) These patients often require medication as a cornerstone of treatment and may benefit from psychiatric hospitalization or intensive outpatient care.

2. People with Conditions That Respond Well to Medication

  • Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)

  • Panic Disorder

  • Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

  • ADHD

  • PTSD (often in combination with therapy) Medication can be life-changing in managing these symptoms, especially when combined with psychotherapy.

3. Crisis or Safety Concerns

  • Individuals with suicidal ideation or self-harm behaviors

  • Those at risk of hurting others

  • Patients with sudden changes in behavior or functioning due to psychiatric symptoms These cases often require immediate intervention and a structured, medical model of care.

4. Patients Who Prefer a Conventional Approach

  • People who trust in the medical model of traditional psychiatry

  • Those who want quick symptom relief

  • Individuals with a history of good response to psychiatric medications

  • Patients seeking formal diagnoses for workplace, academic, or legal accommodations