A medical perspective within ongoing care
This practice is centered on psychotherapy. Dr. Figueroa’s medical training allows him to consider and manage psychiatric medication for his psychotherapy patients when it is indicated.
Medication decisions can then be informed by an ongoing understanding of your life and by what emerges in sessions. You can discuss how you are feeling, what has changed, and any concerns within the same treatment relationship.
What the conversation includes
Before starting a medication, the discussion should be clear enough for you to participate meaningfully. Questions are welcome, including concerns based on prior experiences or uncertainty about taking medication at all.
- What symptoms or difficulties is this intended to address?
- Why is this option being considered in my situation?
- What potential benefits, side effects, and alternatives should I understand?
- How will we review whether it is helping?
- What should I do if I have concerns between appointments?
Experience in psychopharmacology
Dr. Figueroa completed a fellowship in psychopharmacology at Mount Sinai School of Medicine and later taught and supervised trainees as a member of its psychiatry faculty. His professional background also includes clinical trials evaluating psychiatric medications.
That experience supports careful consideration of treatment options. It does not mean medication is necessary for everyone who enters psychotherapy.
Finding the right treatment setting
If you are looking for psychotherapy with a psychiatrist who can also manage medication, this practice may be a good fit. If you are seeking medication management alone, please discuss that when you contact the office so the fit can be clarified before you schedule.
For current patients, questions about changing, stopping, or renewing medication should be addressed directly with Dr. Figueroa through the established clinical communication process.
Questions about this care
Will I have to take medication to do therapy here?
No. Medication is considered based on the evaluation and your individual situation; it is not an automatic requirement of psychotherapy.
Can we discuss medication I have taken before?
Yes. Your previous responses, side effects, concerns, and preferences are relevant to the treatment conversation.