When people ask me: Why are you going into psychiatry? I have a simple response. Because it's what I most love to do, it has always seemed to be what comes most naturally. Combining my medical school education, clinical rotations, and work experiences with my profound love of life, provides me with a strong foundation as a psychiatrist. I feel blessed to have such an opportunity in life where I can combine my spiritual passion for holistic mental health with that of a professional scientist working on behalf of the public interest by caring for patients' physical, psychological, and social well-being.
Most intrigued with the profound challenges confronting America in terms of public health, I minored in college in Health Education and Promotion. My career goals include being a part of a residency program that will develop my clinical and technical skills, promote patient education, and encourage participation in community service. My ideal residency program would be characterized by a good balance of pharmacotherapy with psychotherapy, working with children and adolescents, and the possibility of cross-cultural opportunities. I would strive to break down barriers toward psychiatric care, including overcoming negative stereotypes and stigmas. My greatest joy would be to successfully promote healthy changes in people's lives that help to empower them to achieve their lifelong dreams.
As a volunteer student counselor during my University years, speaking to students individually and in groups about drug prevention, sexual health awareness, and physical and emotional abuse, I feel that I found my stride in what I do best and the area in which I can make my most significant contribution to society. I am most distinguished by my enthusiasm and zeal to help others, educate them, guiding with empathy and compassion. Perhaps the most defining encounter for my professional development has been my work experience over the past year at The XXXX Center. In this drug rehabilitation center, I have developed a comprehensive focus on the complex interplay between physical and mental health, especially the painful process of detoxification from drugs. Along with the attending physician, I have been in charge of the chemically dependent patient's detoxification from alcohol and other drugs combined with their ongoing medical stabilization: from the initial detoxification period throughout their 28-day program. After their initial stabilization, I continue with their care, particularly mindful of and sensitive to the complexity involved with the dual diagnosis patient. Patient education in group counseling and private sessions is also my responsibility.
I develop comprehensive treatment plans highly specific to the needs and particular circumstances of each patient. I am also the director of our smoking cessation program, using the model of alcoholics anonymous and the 12-step program of recovery. My professional experiences as both a medical doctor and a counselor have provided me with great insight and empathy, developing precisely those skills that are so indispensable to any psychiatrist.
My own life experiences with loved ones, one with Alzheimer's disease and another struggling daily to live with immune-compromised health issues, have also taught me invaluable lessons. I have learned that life is indeed short and that it is imperative that we live out our dreams and push through our fear--together. I offer to your program my rich enthusiasm, strong work ethic, and ability to work well as a team player, someone who is totally committed, eager, and well-qualified to join your team.
