Mental health plays a crucial role in overall well-being, and seeking the right psychiatric care can be life-changing. Dr. Matthew Goldenberg, D.O. provides comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and individualized treatment options tailored to each patient’s needs. Whether you are experiencing depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, addiction, or other mental health conditions, a skilled psychiatrist can help guide you toward recovery.
The Role of a Psychiatrist
A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who specializes in diagnosing, treating, and preventing mental illnesses. Unlike other mental health professionals, psychiatrists can prescribe medications, provide therapy, and recommend various levels of care based on the severity of symptoms. Dr. Matthew Goldenberg, D.O. offers a full spectrum of treatment options, from medication management to therapy referrals and mutual help groups.
Comprehensive Psychiatric Evaluation
A thorough psychiatric evaluation is the foundation of effective treatment. During your initial visit, Dr. Goldenberg will:
- Conduct a detailed interview about your symptoms, medical history, and family history.
- Assess cognitive function, emotional well-being, and behavioral patterns.
- Identify underlying medical conditions that may contribute to mental health concerns.
- Discuss treatment goals and expectations.
This evaluation helps create a personalized treatment plan that best fits your needs.
Treatment Options
Depending on the diagnosis, treatment may involve one or a combination of the following options:
1. Medication Management
Medications can be an essential component of mental health treatment. Dr. Goldenberg prescribes and monitors various psychiatric medications, including:
- Antidepressants (e.g., SSRIs, SNRIs, TCAs etc.)
- Mood stabilizers (e.g., lithium, valproate, lamotrigine etc.)
- Antipsychotics (e.g., risperidone, aripiprazole, quetiapine etc.)
- Anxiolytics (e.g., benzodiazepines, buspirone etc.)
- Stimulants and non-stimulants for ADHD (e.g., Adderall, Ritalin, Strattera)
Medication adjustments and follow-ups ensure safety, and effectiveness, and minimize side effects.
2. Psychotherapy (Talk Therapy)
Therapy is often a crucial part of mental health treatment. While Dr. Goldenberg may provide supportive therapy, he also collaborates with licensed therapists to provide specialized treatments, such as:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – Helps change negative thought patterns.
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) – Effective for emotional regulation and borderline personality disorder.
- Psychodynamic Therapy – Explores unconscious thoughts and past experiences.
- Trauma-Focused Therapy – Helps individuals recover from PTSD.
- Family or Couples Therapy – Assists with relationship challenges.
3. Levels of Care
Different mental health conditions require different levels of treatment intensity. Dr. Goldenberg may recommend:
- Outpatient Treatment – Regular office visits for therapy and medication management.
- Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP) – Structured treatment for individuals needing more support but not hospitalization.
- Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP) – Day programs offering therapy, medication management, and group support.
- Inpatient or Residential Treatment – 24-hour care for individuals experiencing severe psychiatric distress or crisis.
4. Mutual Help and Support Groups
Peer support can be a valuable part of recovery. Dr. Goldenberg may recommend:
- 12-Step Programs (e.g., Alcoholics Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous)
- SMART Recovery (non-12-step alternative)
- NAMI Support Groups (National Alliance on Mental Illness)
- Online or community-based mental health groups
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. How do I know if I need psychiatric care?
If you are experiencing persistent or bothersome symptoms such as sadness, anxiety, mood swings, difficulty concentrating, or distressing thoughts, a psychiatric evaluation can determine the best course of action.
2. Do I need medication to feel better?
Not everyone needs medication. Dr. Goldenberg takes a personalized approach, considering therapy, lifestyle changes, and support groups alongside medication if needed.
3. How long does psychiatric treatment last?
Treatment duration varies by individual. Some may require short-term care, while others benefit from ongoing support and follow up. Dr. Goldenberg will work with you to develop an individualized treatment plan to help support your needs and to help you reach your goals.
4. Can I receive therapy and medication from the same provider?
While Dr. Goldenberg provides supportive therapy, he often collaborates with licensed therapists to ensure patients receive specialized therapy tailored to their needs.
5. What should I expect at my first appointment?
Your first visit includes a detailed assessment of your symptoms, medical history, and lifestyle. Dr. Goldenberg will discuss potential diagnoses and treatment options, helping you create a plan for your mental health journey.
6. Does insurance cover psychiatric care?
Coverage varies by provider and plan. Contact your insurance company to confirm your benefits. Dr. Goldenberg in NOT in-network with any insurance plans and is NOT contracted with any health insurance plans, in his private practice, including Medicare or Medi-Cal/LA Care.
However, if you have a PPO insurance plan, Dr. Goldenberg can provide you with an invoice that you can submit to your PPO Insurance plan for possible “out of network” coverage.
Contact Dr. Matthew Goldenberg, D.O.
If you or a loved one needs compassionate and expert psychiatric care, we are here to help.
Dr. Matthew Goldenberg, D.O.
Dr. Goldenberg is licensed to see patients in California, Hawaii, and Alaska.
📞 Phone: (424) 276-0777
🕘 Business Hours:
Monday – Friday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday, Sunday: Closed
Take the first step toward better mental health—schedule an appointment today!