My Experience on the Retreat | The Retreat at Sheppard Pratt

My Experience on the Retreat

February 2, 2011 —

I had been trained in the brave new world of psychiatry – the world of many medication options, amazing discoveries about the biology of the brain, and groundbreaking research that will eventually teach us to master psychiatric diseases. This world introduced the reality of “ICU” approach to psychiatric illness and managed care focus of inpatient and outpatient treatment. This world also hints, rather strongly, at the uncertain future of a thoughtful psychotherapeutic approach to our patients.

When I joined the Retreat at Sheppard Pratt earlier this year, I discovered that the latter approach still exists; in fact, it thrives, with the right mix of ingredients. I was amazed and relieved to find extremely competent staff on the Retreat. When I leave at the end of the day, I have no doubts about the care my patients are getting. There is a sense of teamwork – everyone’s input is essential and there is clear appreciation that without each member of this team the work could not be accomplished. The creative approaches of the various therapists and specialists are very helpful and allow for more tailored, individualized treatment.

As a physician who has experienced the brave new world I mentioned earlier, I am so fortunate to be in a therapeutic environment where I am expected to be entrenched in my patients’ treatment; a place where psychotherapy is viewed as an essential key to long lasting change, not just a luxurious adjunct to treatment. Having the time needed to really get to know the patient’s story, the right tools available to answer specific treatment questions, and the support needed to do the hard work – these are the key ingredients for me. And is the cost worth it, one may ask? It is when there is a much higher likelihood of invested staff, more fulfilled physicians, and successful outcomes for patients.

Marina Nikhinson, MD