Gary Warstadt, MD

I believe deeply that people can change their lives, and I have dedicated my life's work to just that. Patterns of behavior always exist for a good reason. They begin early in life as a way of adapting to one’s circumstances. As time goes on though, their situation changes, and what was once a way to cope has now become a liability.

 

I find nothing more gratifying than assisting people in recognizing these lifelong patterns in which they have become entwined, and helping them learn to slip those bonds. Understanding alone, though, is not enough. An equally important part is putting together and implementing a plan to make real change.

 

"When all you have is a hammer, everything looks like a nail." These days, many MDs do little or no therapy. Many non-MDs are not well versed in diagnosis and the biological elements that affect the conditions they treat. Being equally comfortable in both, I can address the whole person.

 

Treating the physical side, I have over 30 years of experience with prescribing medications. I work really hard to understand what my patients are trying to tell me, and to formulate a clear idea of what they are dealing with. I love taking the time to explain to my patients what I think is going on and what the options are. I strongly believe that my patients and I are partners in this process, and I respect their priorities and sensibilities.

 

I have recently begun doing Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), an exciting new option for depressed people who have not had good luck with medications. 

 

I combine classical psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, Western, and Eastern philosophy, and medications in a deep, broad approach. I try to be real. I draw from my experiences throughout the world; the toughness of NYC, the openness of California, the spirituality of Nepal.

 

But the finest journey is the one in my office, with my fellow travelers.