Psychiatry

Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by persistent inattention, difficulties with organization, and challenges in maintaining focus. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) can also include hyperactive or impulsive behaviors. Individuals with ADD may struggle to complete tasks, follow instructions, or remember details, impacting their academic, professional, and social performance. Effective treatment often involves a combination of behavioral strategies, counseling, and medication to help manage symptoms.

Depression is a common mood disorder characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed. It can significantly impact daily functioning, affecting sleep, appetite, and energy levels. Other mood disorders include bipolar disorder, which involves alternating episodes of depression and mania, and dysthymia, a chronic form of depression with less severe but longer-lasting symptoms. These disorders can result from a combination of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors. Treatment typically includes psychotherapy, medication, or a combination of both to help individuals manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life.

Emotional disorders due to medical illnesses arise when a physical health condition significantly impacts an individual's mental well-being. These disorders can manifest as anxiety, depression, or mood swings in response to both acute and chronic illnesses like cancer, diabetes, or heart disease. The emotional strain can result from the stress of managing the illness, changes in body image, or the fear of mortality. Biological factors, such as hormonal changes or inflammation, may also contribute to these emotional challenges. Treatment often involves a multidisciplinary approach, integrating medical care with psychological support to address both physical and emotional needs.

Neurocognitive disorder is clinical diagnosis that describes cognitive decline due to a variety of medical illnesses such as: neurodegenerative diseases, epilepsy, stroke, autoimmune disorders, traumatic brain injury, substance abuse, infections, and metabolic causes. Treatment is often interdisciplinary and commonly involves education, behavioral management, medication, and speech therapy with specialists in psychiatry as well as geriatrics, neurology, and rehabilitation. 

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition characterized by persistent, intrusive thoughts (obsessions) that cause significant anxiety. To alleviate this anxiety, individuals often engage in repetitive behaviors or mental acts (compulsions). Common obsessions may include fears of contamination, harming others, or doubts about safety, while compulsions might involve excessive cleaning, checking, or counting. The cycle of obsessions and compulsions can interfere with daily life and lead to distress. Treatment typically involves therapy, particularly exposure and response prevention (ERP), and medication to help manage symptoms.

Anxiety disorders are a group of mental health conditions characterized by excessive fear or worry that can interfere with daily activities. Common types include Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Social Anxiety Disorder, and Panic Disorder, each presenting unique triggers and symptoms. Panic Disorder is marked by recurrent panic attacks, which are sudden episodes of intense fear accompanied by physical symptoms like heart palpitations, shortness of breath, and dizziness. Individuals with anxiety disorders may avoid situations that trigger their anxiety, leading to limitations in their personal and social lives. Treatment often involves therapy, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and medication to help manage symptoms effectively.

Pregnancy-related and postpartum conditions encompass a range of mental health issues that can arise during and after pregnancy. These include perinatal depression, characterized by feelings of sadness and hopelessness; anxiety disorders, which can involve excessive worry about pregnancy and parenting. Postpartum psychosis is a severe condition that may lead to delusions and disconnection from reality. Many women also experience adjustment disorders as they cope with the significant life changes of becoming a parent. Early identification and treatment are crucial for the well-being of both mother and child.

Stress and trauma-related disorders, such as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), arise after an individual experiences or witnesses a traumatic event. Symptoms often include intrusive memories, flashbacks, nightmares, and severe anxiety, leading to significant distress and impairment in daily functioning. People with PTSD may also experience avoidance of reminders of the trauma, emotional numbness, and heightened arousal, such as irritability or hypervigilance. The disorder can affect individuals of all ages, and its impact varies widely based on personal resilience and support systems. Treatment typically includes trauma-focused therapies, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and medication to help manage symptoms.

To create an effective and tailored psychiatric treatment plan, a thorough diagnostic assessment is essential. The GW Department of Psychiatry’s Outpatient Clinic offers exceptional diagnostic expertise, evaluating emotional, behavioral, medical, and psychiatric factors that may contribute to an individual’s symptoms and concerns. Every new patient begins with a comprehensive assessment, laying the foundation for identifying the most suitable treatment approach and duration. Additionally, our nationally-recognized academic physicians offer assessments for second opinions regarding both diagnoses and medication consultations.

The Outpatient Clinic at GW’s Department of Psychiatry features nationally recognized experts in adult psychopharmacology, delivering evidence-based medication management for patients, whether or not they are receiving psychotherapy. Our physicians also specialize in medication management for women who are planning to become pregnant, are currently pregnant, or are in the postpartum period.

The GW Department of Psychiatry’s Outpatient Clinic’s psychology team provide EBP. These are time-limited focused psychotherapies including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and exposure-based therapies for the treatment for specific psychiatric illness such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, and ADHD. 

The GW Department of Psychiatry’s Outpatient Clinic’s psychology team provide neuropsychological assessment for differential diagnosis and treatment planning. Our team receives referrals across departments and from the community. In addition to our psychiatry colleagues we work closely with GW’s memory clinic and neurology and rehabilitation medicine department. 

The GW Department of Psychiatry’s Outpatient Clinic includes women psychiatrists with expertise and specialized training to assess and treat a variety of mental health conditions affecting women and tailored to their unique needs. Our providers specialize in treating psychological and psychiatric problems that arise in the context of premenstrual syndromes, infertility, pregnancy, childbirth and menopause. Our aim is to provide comprehensive care that relieves distress and promotes well-being and social functioning. To this end we provide a range of psychiatric and psychotherapy/counseling services, including evaluation, medication, couples’ treatment, individual therapy and supportive care.

We provide comprehensive, personalized treatment to support the unique challenges faced by gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) patients. Our services encompass a range of psychiatric and psychotherapy options, including evaluations, individual therapy, couples therapy, and family therapy. Our providers are trained to addressing issues such as discrimination, identity acceptance, and relationship dynamics, in a culturally competent manner that ensures a safe and affirming environment.

Welcome to our Resident Clinic in Psychiatry, a dedicated space where we prioritize your mental health and well-being. Our clinic is designed to provide comprehensive and compassionate care in a supportive environment.
By coming to Resident Clinic you are establishing care with a physician who will be able to spend more time with you during your visit. Residents have longer appointment times and you can oftentimes get an appointment with a resident sooner than you can with an attending physician.

What We Offer:

1. Personalized Care: Our team of resident psychiatrists, supervised by experienced faculty, works collaboratively to develop tailored treatment plans that address your unique needs.
2. Comprehensive Services: We offer a wide range of services, including diagnostic assessments, psychotherapy, medication management, and support for various mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and more.
3. Evidence-Based Treatment: Our approaches are grounded in the latest research and best practices in psychiatry, ensuring that you receive the most effective care available.
4. Patient-Centered Environment: Your comfort and confidentiality are paramount. We strive to create a welcoming atmosphere where you can openly discuss your concerns and experiences.

Who We Serve:

Our clinic is open to adults seeking support for mental health challenges. 

Getting Started:

To setup an initial appointment call the psychiatry intake line at 202-741-2888.

The Department of Psychiatry offers a range of services to support women’s wellness during pregnancy. Our faculty includes women psychiatrists with added training and expertise in advising women about the use of medication during pregnancy or while breast feeding, mood and anxiety disorders while pregnant or after birth, and support for fathers and partners.  Our weekly Five Trimesters Clinic includes a range of services tailored to the unique psychological and emotional challenges that women may face during pregnancy and postpartum period. Our motto is: Healthy moms. Healthy babies. Happy families.

What We Offer:

1. Screening and Assessment: Our team of resident psychiatrists, supervised by experienced faculty, works collaboratively to conduct mental health screenings to identify conditions such as depression, anxiety, and postpartum mood disorders.
2. Brief Medication Management:  Our team of resident psychiatrists, supervised by experienced faculty, works collaboratively to ensure safe prescribing practices for antidepressants and anxiolytics, considering the potential impact on the fetus and breastfeeding while monitoring the medications’ efficacy and side effects.
3. Psychoeducation: Our providers will educate you on perinatal mental health, coping mechanisms, and stress management.
4. Integrated Care: Our providers will work with your Obstetrician to address both physical and mental health needs and will work to connect you with additional resources in the community for continuation of care, social services, and community resources.
5. Postpartum Follow-up:
   • Long-term Monitoring: Continued support for mental health issues that may arise or persist after childbirth.
   • Transitioning Care: Planning for ongoing mental health services as the child grows.

Who We Serve:

Our clinic is open to adult women before and after pregnancy seeking support for mental health challenges. 

Getting Started:

To setup an initial appointment call the psychiatry intake line at 202-741-2888.