Welcome to Dr. Shalima's Mind Clinic

Dr. Shalima specializes in treating a wide range of mental health conditions including depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, ADHD, trauma and PTSD, personality disorders, and relationship issues. She also provides support for stress management, sleep disorders, and other behavioral and emotional challenges.

Your first appointment will typically last 45-60 minutes and include a comprehensive evaluation of your symptoms, medical history, family history, and current life circumstances. Dr. Shalima will work with you to understand your concerns and develop an initial treatment plan. It's helpful to bring a list of current medications, previous treatments, and any questions you may have.

Consider seeking psychiatric help if you're experiencing persistent symptoms that interfere with your daily functioning, relationships, or quality of life. These might include ongoing sadness or anxiety, significant changes in sleep patterns or appetite, difficulty concentrating, feelings of hopelessness, or thoughts of harming yourself. Even if you're unsure, an initial consultation can help determine if treatment would be beneficial.

Psychiatrists are medical doctors (MD) who specialize in mental health and can prescribe medication. They are trained to understand the complex relationship between mental and physical health. Psychologists typically have a doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD) in psychology and focus on psychotherapy and behavioral interventions but cannot prescribe medication in most states. Dr. Shalima, as a psychiatrist, can provide both medication management and psychotherapy as part of a comprehensive treatment approach.

Yes, Dr. Shalima offers secure video appointments for both new and established patients. Telepsychiatry provides the same quality of care as in-person visits while offering greater convenience, flexibility, and accessibility. It's particularly beneficial for those with transportation challenges, busy schedules, or health concerns that make in-person visits difficult.

The duration of treatment varies significantly based on your specific condition, its severity, your response to treatment, and your personal goals. Some individuals benefit from short-term treatment over a few months, while others with chronic conditions may require ongoing care. Dr. Shalima will discuss treatment expectations during your initial consultation and regularly reassess your progress to determine the appropriate duration of care.

Neuromodulation therapy refers to techniques that directly stimulate or modify brain activity to treat psychiatric disorders. These may include transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), neurofeedback, and other brain stimulation methods. These approaches can be particularly beneficial for conditions that haven't responded adequately to medication or psychotherapy alone. Dr. Shalima can evaluate whether neuromodulation would be appropriate for your specific condition.

Yes, confidentiality is a fundamental aspect of psychiatric care. Dr. Shalima adheres to strict privacy protocols in accordance with medical ethics and legal requirements. Your personal information and treatment details are kept confidential. There are limited exceptions where disclosure may be necessary, such as if there is an imminent risk of harm to yourself or others, or in cases of mandated reporting. These exceptions will be explained during your first appointment.