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Psychiatry

Addiction is often linked with mental health. For many, addiction develops as a result of using substances to self-medicate one or more underlying psychiatric conditions such as depression or anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, Attention Deficit Disorder (ADHD), Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) or a fledgling personality disorder. Conversely, the use of substances whether for self-medication purposes or for recreational purposes can alter brain functioning.

The use of addictive substances in repeated fashion interferes with brain development and increases the risk of lifelong addiction — 9 out of 10 people who are addicted to nicotine, alcohol or other drugs began using these substances in adolescence. Today, over 45 million Americans age 12 and over meet the clinical criteria for addiction.

The good news is that even the most severe addiction can be managed and treated in the proper treatment setting. Effective clinical treatments for addiction include a range of FDA-approved medications and evidence-based psychosocial therapies delivered by qualified health professionals.

Regardless of the origin of the psychiatric complications of mood-altering chemical use, addiction treatment would not be complete without psychiatric assessments, monitoring and if needed, psychopharmacological treatment. It is for this reason that everyone entering treatment at NYCFL is offered a diagnostic psychiatric evaluation and treatment plan as part of our comprehensive intake process.

At NYCFL, our board-certified psychiatrists have the mission of delivering a tailored and holistic treatment approach using patient centered evidence-based medicine combined with extensive knowledge in the fields of General Psychiatry, Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine.

Not all of our clients need medication. For those who do, our psychiatrists work closely with patients, their families and their clinical team to identify individual needs and determine how and when a medication should be part of the treatment. Psychiatric pharmacogenomic testing is offered to all patients as part of our tailored approach to medication management. An emphasis is placed on explaining why a particular medication is recommended and reviewing all the alternatives. Psychiatric appointments are scheduled according to individual need and range from weekly monitoring to quarterly check-ins. Our psychiatrists develop a collaborative relationship with patients inspiring them to become invested in their treatment plan and empowering them to succeed in their goals.

Our psychiatrists are fluent in the use of medications to aid the recovery process by addressing urges to use substances including alcohol, opiates, cocaine, cannabis and nicotine. Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) and Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) is offered when appropriate and our psychiatrists are certified to prescribe buprenorphine and trained to administer monthly naltrexone and buprenorphine injections.

Dual Diagnosis

Mental health disorders have a wide range of causes, including genetics, trauma, and previous drug abuse. When a client presents with both drug/alcohol abuse and a mental health condition, it is called Dual Diagnosis. Common mental health problems which co-occur with drug abuse and are treated at NYCFL include