
Integrative Psychiatric Treatment Approaches for Weight Loss | Ryan Sheridan, NP

Holistic Treatments that go beyond the surface for
Weight Loss

Wait! Before you read on, you'll notice weight loss has a strike through it. There's a reason... The term "weight loss" implies we set a goal based on a number on the scale. I don't think that's the best approach. Instead, we'll work together to create a healthy, fit, balanced life physically and mentally.

Integrative psychiatry for
weight loss means creating a healthy lifestyle through nutrition and fitness.
We'll treat you as a whole-person, find solutions that work, and set you up for long-term success.

The Proactive Approachâ„
Holistic Interventions
Weight loss is best treated with a comprehensive and holistic plan that includes nutritional support, exercise planning, supplements, therapy, coaching, occasionally medication when appropriate, and more. You will be viewed as whole person, not as a number on the scale, calorie count, or statistic.


Genetic
& Biological Testing
How we process food, nutrients, and medication are significant pieces of the puzzle for weight loss. Taking into consideration the biological components is important in order to lose weight and keep it off. By using supportive measures in tandem with healthy lifestyle changes we will foster long-term success.

Psychotherapy
& Coaching Support
Achieving healthy physical wellness can be an emotional challenge. Talk therapy and coaching are critical elements of treatment that provide support and help to manage stressors. Through therapy and coaching, we will establish new routines, learn new behaviors, and build a healthy lifestyle. You will never be alone on your weight loss journey.


Simple Treatment Plans
Complex diet and exercise plans are overwhelming, hard to follow, and promote unhealthy weight cycling. We will select weight loss solutions that are tailored to you, methodically developed, and implemented in a healthy way. Evidence-based treatments can be simple, effective, and long lasting. Together we will devise realistic plans that promote a healthy, balanced life.

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1. What is integrative psychiatry?Integrative psychiatry means focusing on the whole person when selecting treatments or approaches to care. This includes medication, nutrition, exercise, therapy, and other alternative or complementary treatments. I like to think of integrative psychiatry as a smorgasbord - it provides a bit everything. It is important to note that a genuine integrative psychiatry practice always uses evidence-based methods.
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2. What is functional psychiatry?Another term? This one is straightforward - functional means treating the "root cause" of a condition through testing, mapping, and exploration. If we can determine a specific cause to a condition, sometimes treating the root cause yields excellent results. Functional psychiatry is often a part of an integrative approach to care. Key distinction: functional psychiatry means treating the cause, not the symptom. Traditional medicine typically treats symptoms, often ignoring the causes.
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3. Why don't you accept insurance?I get this one a lot. I understand why! The model that works for most psychiatry practices is not something in which I believe. I think it is unfair to see a patient for just a few minutes, scribble a few notes, and send off a prescription. The traditional model is void of connection and often void of quality care. I believe every patient deserves someone who builds a relationship and is a partner in their care - not a mysterious white coat they see a time or two every year. The fees enable me to give you the most personal care available.
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4. What format are the appointments?Most appointments are virtual, as this is what most people prefer. If in-person is something you'd like, we can likely make that happen. Some medications may require us to meet in person on occasion. I typically see patients in person one or two days per month.
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5. Are there any conditions you don't treat?Short answer: no! My primary goal is to work as a team with you. I care less about what a previous provider may have labeled you and more about how we'll work together. One of my biggest issues with the mental health field is the desire to diagnose, label, and otherwise categorize every symptom or condition. When we work together, my goal isn't to diagnose you or give you a label. My goal is to help you achieve, excel, and grow. We'll work to reduce your symptoms, increase your output, or whatever your goals may be. Once we've established a sound working relationship, I'm happy to share with you some of the overarching diagnostic concepts. However, you must commit and come ready to do the work! How does that sound?
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6. I am nervous, what can I expect?Totally normal! Our first meeting will be over the phone. It'll be 15 minutes. Here you can ask questions, share your goals, and learn more about my practice. This is casual. ​ After this, you'll be setup in the patient portal where you'll fill out all the pre-appointment paperwork and schedule your first appointment! (Note: pre-appointment paperwork must be completed at least 24 hours prior to the first appointment to give me plenty of time to review). After you've completed the paperwork, we will have our initial intake appointment. Our initial visit will be 75 minutes. We will dig deep and cover a wide range of topics from your history, relationships, work, family, medical conditions, and more. This is also casual - think of a deep conversation over coffee with someone you trust.
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7. Do you see emergency cases?Unfortunately, no. If you believe your situation is an emergency please call 911 or head to the nearest emergency room. Your life matters! ​ The practice model under which I work is a primary care model. Facilitating emergency care requires a different approach. If your situation is not emergent, but urgent, we may be able to work together to get things back on track.
Request a free 15-minute intro
Patients searching for weigh loss treatment in the Washington DC area are offered a free 15-minute introductory appointment. During the appointment you can ask questions, get to know Ryan, and find out if this approach is for you.