Finding the right fit
Is my approach a good fit?
Good care depends partly on a good match. Here’s an honest look at who tends to like working with me, and when another kind of care may suit you better. Either answer is completely okay.
I practice with shared expertise: you’re the expert on how you feel, and I bring expertise in understanding it and treating it. That means a lot of back-and-forth, plain explanations, and decisions we make together. Some people love that. Others would rather have something different, and that’s a valid preference.
You might like working with me if…
- You want to understand, not just be told. You like knowing why a medication is suggested, what the options are, and what the trade-offs look like.
- You’ve tried treatment before and felt rushed, unheard, or stuck. Complex and treatment-resistant situations are among my clinical interests.
- You’re dealing with mood or anxiety concerns. That includes depression that hasn’t responded the way you hoped.
- Your mental health and substance use overlap. You want a doctor who looks at the whole picture, without judgment.
- You value a trauma-informed style. One that emphasizes safety, trust, and choice.
- You’re willing to bring honesty and effort. I’ll bring mine too. Honesty, open-mindedness, and willingness run in both directions.
- You’re located in Minnesota for your visits. I’m licensed to practice medicine in Minnesota, and where you are during a visit determines which state’s license applies.
Another kind of care may suit you better if…
- You’d prefer a doctor who simply decides. That’s a valid preference. I do give clear recommendations, but my visits involve more back-and-forth and shared decisions than some people want.
- You’re mainly looking for weekly talk therapy. Psychiatric visits often focus on diagnosis and medication. A therapist may be the better primary fit, and many people see both.
- You’re in crisis or need urgent care. Please don’t wait for an appointment. Call or text 988, or call 911.
- You’re located outside Minnesota, including nearby communities in Wisconsin. A psychiatrist licensed in your state is the right place to start.
- You’re looking for a specific service or procedure. My background covers a range of settings and treatments, but that’s not the same as what’s offered at Lakeview Behavioral Health, where I see patients now. Lakeview can tell you what’s available.
If another kind of care fits better
Finding the right match is part of good care. A few good places to start:
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
For a crisis, any time of day or night. Call or text 988. It’s free and confidential. In an emergency, call 911.
A therapist
For ongoing talk therapy. Therapists include licensed counselors, social workers, psychologists, and marriage and family therapists.
Your primary care doctor
A good first stop for many concerns. They can check for physical causes, start some treatments, and help you find the right specialist.
Sounds like a fit?
See how to become my patient, read how a first visit usually goes, or see answers to common questions.