Why should I pick Dr. Jesalva as my psychiatrist?
Dr. Jesalva emphasizes the following: Finding the correct diagnosis, treating the main disorder and co-occurring disorders until each person functions optimally (treat to remission). He approaches each individual from a bio/psycho/social/spiritual model that encourages participation and feedback on their treatment. He recommends seeing a psychotherapist to help with psychological issues that cannot be addressed by medications alone. He also encourages a healthy lifestyle including eating well and participating in daily exercise as part of his treatment plan. In this way, the patient learns different coping skills to manage stress and understands works through the issues that are important in obtaining a more fulfilling life.
What will the first visit be like?
You should arrive at your appointment about 15 minutes early to fill out some paperwork. Once the evaluation begins, Dr. Jesalva will spend about an hour getting to know you and gathering important information to make the correct diagnosis. This is a very crucial step of treatment. He may also try to obtain information from partners, parents or others who have a close relationship with you. He will then discuss a treatment plan that would be appropriate to address important symptoms and issues. This may include recommendations for medications, referral to therapists for counseling, referrals for psychological testing, 12 Step Programs, etc…He will also try to answer any questions that you may have regarding the diagnosis or condition that you are experiencing, medication side effects, and other treatment issues
Why is getting the correct diagnosis so important?
Many people that Dr. Jesalva sees have been suffering from mental illness for a long time. This is either due to an incorrect diagnosis or because of a co-occurring illness that was under treated or misdiagnosed. The recognizing and treating correct diagnosis in either case is the foundation of treatment.
As an example, there are different types of depression including unipolar and bipolar depression. It takes time to tease out the differences. Often times one needs collateral history from significant others to provide accurate information. At times, questionnaires are helpful in spotting clues to diagnose bipolar depression. In short, it takes time and patience to gather important information. However, getting the diagnoses correct is essential to treatment since one has to know what they are treating.
As an example, there are different types of depression including unipolar and bipolar depression. It takes time to tease out the differences. Often times one needs collateral history from significant others to provide accurate information. At times, questionnaires are helpful in spotting clues to diagnose bipolar depression. In short, it takes time and patience to gather important information. However, getting the diagnoses correct is essential to treatment since one has to know what they are treating.
Will I be on medications?
Most people that Dr. Jesalva sees are usually referrals from other physicians and therapists who have failed conventional treatment. Therefore, they may have already tried and failed several trials of psychotropic medications. Also, many referrals come from therapists who are currently working with the individual and often need medications so that psychotherapy can work more effectively.
How often will I need to see Dr. Jesalva?
Most people are usually seen every 3-4 weeks during the initial phase of treatment until their symptoms are stabilized. If the individual seems to continue to improve, they can be seen as little as once a year for on-going treatment.
Does Dr. Jesalva do individual, group or couples psychotherapy?
No he does not. However, Dr. Jesalva can refer to numerous psychotherapists in the area who are excellent clinicians and work closely with him to coordinate treatment.
Can Dr. Jesalva discuss my case to my other doctors or therapists about the medications or if I’m having problems with them?
Yes. Dr. Jesalva believes in an approach that encourages communication between treating professionals whether they are therapists, physicians or other specialists. Coordination of care is one of the keys to a successful treatment plan.