What is integrative psychiatry?
Dr. Thomas has been trained to perform a comprehensive integrative psychiatric evaluation. Although this includes all of the important aspects of a conventional psychiatric evaluation (such as DSM-5, presenting problems, psychiatric history, medical history, etc), it also includes other important components.
These may include an evaluation of laboratory data (such as Vitamin B12, Folate, Vitamin D levels, Iron, etc.) from the perspective of optimal neurological functioning. In his treatment planning with you, he will not simply prescribe a medication and leave you to sort out the rest on your own, but will instead consider a wide variety of treatment options such as targeted nutritional supplements, diet optimization, referral to appropriate psychotherapy services and many others.
Dr. Thomas will continue to meet with you along your journey to listen, explore new options, adjust your plan and collaborate with your care team.
TREATING THE CAUSES NOT JUST THE SYMPTOMS
This model employs the best of conventional psychiatry while eliminating the problematic aspects of conventional psychiatry which typically priotizes a focus on suppressing symptoms without addressing their root causes. Not exploring the causes of your symptoms is a recipe for an unfulfilled life and in some cases, an invitation for new problems, such as problematic medication side effects.
Some of the possible root causes that may be underlying problematic symptoms include: imbalances in the gut environment, unresolved emotional trauma, nutritional imbalances, genetic vulnerability, hormonal imbalances, environmental toxins, and chronic infections, to name a few. This list can be admittedly overwhelming and often requires a team approach, such as an additional referral to a functional/integrative medical practitioner, to address root causes meaningfully.
The mission of Clarity Integrative Psychiatry is to help you assemble the right team so that you can live the most fulfilled life.