Hello! I'm Dr. Femi, your dedicated healthcare partner with nearly two decades of expertise in psychiatric care. As a seasoned pharmacist and certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I specialize on holistic approaches to medication management, while keeping your safety and the effects of your treatment at the top of my mind.
My educational journey took me from the University of Maryland for Nursing, through Northern Kentucky University for my advanced practice degree, to Manchester University in Indiana where I earned my Doctor of Pharmacy.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
During my first session, with a client, I determine the client's presenting issues, usually gathering background information, where I will obtain a comprehensive overview of their personal history, including their current symptoms, past mental health concerns, medical history, family history, social and occupational functioning, and any significant life events or stressors.
The patient will have the opportunity to describe their current mental health symptoms, such as mood disturbances, anxiety, psychotic symptoms, difficulties with attention or impulse control, and any other concerns that have prompted them to seek psychiatric evaluation. I usually utilize standardized assessment tools, ask specific questions about symptoms, and observe the patient's behavior and affect, which aids in formulating a diagnosis and treatment plan.
After developing a preliminary diagnosis. I will discuss potential treatment options. This may include recommendations for psychotherapy, medication, lifestyle modifications, or referrals to other specialists if needed
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
As a psychiatric provider, one of my greatest strengths lies in the ability to provide compassionate, comprehensive, and patient-centered care. This involves fostering a therapeutic alliance with patients, promoting holistic well-being, and delivering evidence-based treatment interventions. Additional key strengths that I possess include Empathy and compassion, diagnostic and treatment expertise, holistic approach, advocacy and support, collaboration, multidisciplinary care, and a nonjudgmental Attitude.
About Dr. Femi Akinsanya PHARMD/PMHNP-BC
Appointments
Virtual
My treatment methods
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a type of psychotherapy that focuses on the relationship between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. It is based on the idea that our thoughts and beliefs influence our emotions and actions. CBT aims to help individuals identify and change negative or unhelpful thought patterns and behaviors, leading to healthier and more positive ways of thinking and behaving.
CBT is a structured and goal-oriented therapy that involves collaboration between the therapist and the individual. It typically involves several components, including:
1. Cognitive restructuring: This involves identifying and challenging negative or distorted thoughts and replacing them with more realistic and positive ones.
2. Behavioral activation: This focuses on increasing engagement in positive and rewarding activities to improve mood and reduce avoidance behaviors.
3. Skills training: Individuals learn practical skills to cope with specific challenges, such as stress management, problem-solving, and communication skills.
4. Exposure therapy: This technique is used to gradually expose individuals to feared situations or stimuli in a controlled and supportive environment, helping them to overcome anxiety and fear.
CBT has been extensively researched and has been shown to be effective in treating a variety of mental health conditions, including anxiety disorders, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), eating disorders, and substance abuse. It is often used in combination with other treatment approaches, such as medication or other therapies, to provide comprehensive care.
It is important to note that CBT is typically conducted by a trained therapist or mental health professional. However, there are also self-help resources and online programs available that teach CBT techniques for individuals who want to learn and apply these strategies on their own.
Solution Focused Brief Treatment
Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT) is a brief and goal-oriented therapeutic approach that focuses on finding solutions rather than dwelling on problems. It is based on the belief that individuals have the resources and strengths to create positive change in their lives, and that the therapist's role is to help them discover and utilize these resources.
In Solution-Focused Therapy, the therapist and client work collaboratively to identify and define the client's goals for therapy. The emphasis is on the present and future, rather than analyzing past problems or searching for their root causes. The therapist helps the client envision a desired future outcome and explores the client's existing strengths, skills, and resources that can be utilized to achieve that outcome.
Key principles of Solution-Focused Therapy include:
1. Goal setting: The therapist helps the client articulate clear, specific, and achievable goals. These goals serve as a roadmap for therapy and guide the focus of each session.
2. Solution-focused questions: The therapist asks questions that help the client generate ideas and solutions. These questions are designed to shift the client's focus from problems to potential solutions and strengths.
3. Scaling questions: The therapist uses scaling questions to help the client assess their progress and identify small steps towards their goals. This helps the client recognize their own progress and build confidence.
4. Exception finding: The therapist explores times when the problem is less present or not present at all. By examining exceptions to the problem, the client can gain insight into their own strengths and resources.
Solution-Focused Therapy is typically a short-term therapy approach, with an average of 3 to 12 sessions. It is often used to address a wide range of issues, including relationship problems, substance abuse, anxiety, depression, and parenting challenges. The focus on solutions and strengths makes it particularly helpful for individuals who prefer a more practical and action-oriented approach to therapy.
It is important to note that Solution-Focused Therapy can be used as a standalone therapy or in combination with other therapeutic approaches, depending on the client's needs and preferences.
