Adults

Each person has a unique life story that influences who they are in the present, how they came to be that person, and who they aspire to be in the future. Regardless of age, I take a wide developmental perspective to each patient. As an adult psychiatrist, I am aided by my understanding of early life, and use this to help patients better understand how their life has unfolded and how they can feel better and be successful going forward. I work with patients to help them slow down, better understand themselves, and examine who they are as an individual in an effort to attain more balanced mental health. There are many ways in which therapy, and medication management if appropriate, are useful to help resolve issues that present in adulthood. I offer thoughtful and professional treatment aimed at improving mental and physical health and well-being.

Following a comprehensive psychiatric assessment, I create an individualized treatment plan for each of my patients. I often use a customized combination of treatments such as lifestyle changes, psychotherapy, and medication management if needed. During therapy sessions, I guide my patients in finding relief from symptoms and in bringing meaning back into their lives. I use a variety of therapeutic modalities, including psychoeducation, psychodynamic psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, mentalization based therapy, and supportive psychotherapy. I may also provide advice and support to encourage my patients to increase their physical activity, improve their sleep hygiene and eating patterns, and reduce stress. I may prescribe medication if appropriate.

Women

Each year, 1 in 5 women in the United States has a mental health problem such as depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), or an eating disorder. Although women and men have similar rates of mental health problems, the types of mental conditions may differ. Dr. Schonfeld has a particular interest in women’s health and supporting women in all stages of the reproductive life-cycle from menses through pregnancy and menopause. Dr. Schonfeld takes a supportive and effective approach to mental health treatment during the specific phases of a woman's life.  She is skilled at supporting women through hormonal changes, pregnancy issues (including miscarriages, postpartum, prenatal, and infertility), and trauma. Dr. Schonfeld focuses on supporting women in recovering from these conditions, using a flexible, supportive approach that is individualized to the needs of each patient. Treatment offered includes consultation, short-term psychotherapy, long-term psychotherapy and medication management.