DR. TINA NGUYEN

Dr. Nguyen is a double board-certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist, as well as psychotherapist. She believes in taking the time to fully understand each patient’s unique situation because one’s state of mind is inseparable from the family and social systems that surround us. Only after a comprehensive evaluation has been completed can a thoughtful, well-informed treatment plan be made. Dr. Nguyen recognizes her patients as individuals and encourages them to be active participants and collaborators in their own treatment planning. For some, this will involve the use of medications. And for others the best course may be to start with psychotherapy or other supportive treatments before medications are considered.

Dr. Nguyen graduated college from Temple University at the early age of 18, and continued to obtain her medical degree from Temple University School of Medicine. Dr. Nguyen completed residency in General Psychiatry at Mount Sinai Beth Israel in New York City, where she was actively involved in research, receiving state-wide recognition for her work as a resident. She then completed her Child & Adolescent Psychiatry fellowship at SUNY Downstate Medical Center in Brooklyn, NY, and had the honor of serving as a chief resident. Dr. Nguyen has had faculty appointments at 2 academic institutions, including Mount Sinai Beth Israel and USC Keck School of Medicine. Dr. Nguyen is currently an Advanced Clinical Associate at the New Center for Psychoanalysis.

TREATMENT PHILOSOPHY

Dr. Nguyen works primarily from a psychoanalytic framework of understanding the human condition, which is that there may be forces outside of our conscious awareness that still have an impact on our decisions and how we experience life on a daily basis. Going deeper to what may not be outwardly observable is important in helping each patient better understand their inner world. This understanding of one's inner world and the immense internal suffering that may go unacknowledged by the outside world are essential elements in healing and in reclaiming back control over one's future. This framework is used as the foundation in her work with all patients, whether meeting for monthly medication evaluations or in regular psychotherapy. Dr. Nguyen has also been trained in several other psychotherapeutic modalities including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), supportive therapy, play therapy for children, and family therapy, and incorporates elements of each when appropriate. There is no "one size fits all" as each individual's complexity cannot fit neatly into predetermined categories. Dr. Nguyen also works collaboratively with patients’ private therapists when adding medications may enhance the treatment. If medications are recommended, Dr. Nguyen will have a thorough discussion of risks, benefits, and alternatives so that clients can make the best educated decision for their own mental health. With the right foundation and supports, stability and a more fulfilling lifestyle is within reach.