Conditions we treat

Individuals seek psychiatric help for a variety of reasons. Some feel sad and anxious. Others have seen their professional or academic life suffer from difficulties with concentration, attention, and/or disorganization. Many are facing a particular crossroads and seek support and guidance to determine the best course of action. Still others are unable to articulate exactly what is wrong, but feel that "something" is missing in their life and/or relationships.  

Below is a sample of the some of the conditions we treat.  Please note that many who benefit from psychotherapy, psychopharmacology, neuropsychological assessment, or all three do not fall into any discrete category or diagnosis.  If you have questions about whether you are suited for or might benefit from our services, please contact Dr. Samton.

Anxiety is the tense feeling that one experiences while worrying about bad things that have happened or might happen in the future.  Although all of us have worried unnecessarily, everyday worry can evolve into fear and dread. When this occurs, psychiatric attention is needed. Anxiety can take a generalized, pervasive form, or it can occur as a rush caused by an identifiable or imagined stressor. The later is often referred to as a "panic attack." 

Regardless of the symptoms, anxiety can seriously undermine an individual's quality of life and impede personal and professional success. Fortunately, over time, individuals can learn to manage even severe anxiety with a combination of improved coping skills, psychotherapy, and, when necessary, medication.

Sadness is a common and often legitimate reaction to many life events. However, when "the blues" become overwhelming and make it hard to feel joy, a diagnosis of depression may be warranted. Depression often affects sleeping and eating habits, and can lead to low energy, motivation, and social isolation.  By utilizing a personalized approach, we will work together to improve your mood and help you develop more flexible strategies to manage challenges and negative life events.

Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) is a disorder that affects the ability to concentrate and complete tasks compared to accepted standards of behavior. Individuals are often forgetful, procrastinate, and become easily distracted. Symptoms are apparent over the lifespan, but often become more visible during a life transition, such as graduation, starting a new job, or retirement. ADD can be accompanied by physical hyperactivity or jitteriness, or just an inner feeling of restlessness and discomfort. Patients with ADD are often criticized and misunderstood by others. Fortunately, once diagnosed, ADD responds to behavioral strategies with or without medication management. Successfully treated individuals are able to reach professional and personal goals that they previously considered insurmountable.

Physiological reactions to stress include increased heart rate, blood pressure, breathing rate, and muscle tension. Research has demonstrated that prolonged exposure to chemicals that produce these responses can be damaging to physical health. Stress has been shown to exacerbate peptic ulcer disease, heart disease, immune problems, and certain neurological disorders. Along with physical illness, psychological reactions can interfere with our ability to think clearly and logically. The good news is that with appropriate treatment and coping strategies, individuals can improve their physical health and enjoy a richer quality of life. Reducing emotions such as anger, hostility, and anxiety can also improve interpersonal relationships and help others achieve more joy in their marriages, friendships, and parenting roles.