«I don’t know what madness is. It could be everything or nothing. It is a human condition. Within us, madness exists and is present, just like reason. The problem lies in the fact that society, to be considered civilized, would have to accept both reason and madness.»

«I don’t know what madness is. It could be everything or nothing. It is a human condition. Within us, madness exists and is present, just like reason. The problem lies in the fact that society, to be considered civilized, would have to accept both reason and madness.»

– Franco Basaglia

– Franco Basaglia

Psychiatry and Psychotherapy Consultations

Psychiatry and Psychotherapy Consultations

As each person’s reality is unique, psychiatric evaluations allow for an assessment of their particular situation, where establishing good communication with the patient is vital. While diagnoses help establish a set of common general criteria, I believe treatments should be individualized.

My goal is to provide a comprehensive approach to mitigate troublesome symptoms, restore overall well-being, and enhance the person’s functionality. Therefore, in my consultations, I delve into the medical and psychiatric history, conduct a psychopathological exploration, establish a diagnostic orientation, and propose a strategic plan. This plan may involve initiating pharmacological treatment and/or recommending a psychotherapeutic approach, with revisions during subsequent follow-up appointments.

I consider resorting to medication may be inevitable during acute moments but not as a standalone treatment. Instead, it serves to mobilize or alleviate distress, enabling individuals to process their distress. Alongside medication, I implement a psychotherapeutic approach or engage in active listening for accompanying and understanding the underlying problem.

These disorders include, among others, schizophrenia or psychotic disorders, bipolar disorder, depressive episodes, anxiety disorders or stress-related disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders, traumatic disorders, and substance-related disorders.

Medication Adjustments / Withdrawals

In my opinion, the widespread medicalization of society tends to chronicle certain disorders rather than resolve or prevent them. It creates medium to long-term side effects and can lead to a feeling of «not being oneself» under the prescribed treatment.

The reasons prompting a person to want to withdraw, reduce, or change their treatment should always be listened to and taken into account.

Tapering or discontinuing treatments can be lengthy and complex processes in which previous symptoms may resurface or new symptoms may emerge, sometimes difficult to tolerate. Therefore, the balance between benefits and risks must always be regularly and individually evaluated.

Medication Adjustments / Withdrawals

Psychedelic Substances

– Risk Reduction

Artwork titled Manifest by Tennessee Charpentier

Artwork titled Manifest by Tennessee Charpentier

The use of psychedelic or entheogenic substances is growing worldwide for various reasons: spiritual, therapeutic, personal growth, or self-exploration. Although the legal situation varies in each country, they are currently being increasingly used in numerous clinical trials and rigorous research efforts. These trials suggest they are a highly effective therapeutic alternative for treating various medical conditions and psychiatric disorders.

Given this reality, for those individuals who have voluntarily chosen to use these substances, I provide counseling, evidence-based information, and risk minimization.

I offer preparatory sessions wherein, together with the individual, I assess the appropriateness of the experience, whether it is a suitable moment in their life, how to make the most of it, and how to manage potential difficulties. If the person is undergoing pharmacological treatment, we will assess the option to maintain, reduce, or withdraw it, potential interactions, contraindications, and the possibility of resuming it later if necessary. Furthermore, post-experience integration is crucial for a better assimilation into daily life, especially in cases of difficult or traumatic experiences.

Psychedelic Substances – Harm Reduction