Try to observe and learn from all three psychiatrists practicing here at the clinic. You’ll be able to take away the best from each of them,” was the advice Dr. Sejal Mehta gave me during our first meeting at Psychiatric Medical Associates, Dallas.
I completed one month of Psychiatry Observership at Psychiatric Medical Associates, Dallas. I typically arrived at the clinic by 8 a.m., quickly brushing up on what I had learned the previous day and energizing myself with a strong cup of coffee brewed by the friendly staff members. By 9 a.m., I would begin shadowing Dr. Drew Murray, an excellent and highly driven psychiatrist, managing adult psychiatric cases, including but not limited to Unipolar and Bipolar Depression, Anxiety Disorders, OCD, Adult ADHD, and Substance Use Disorders. In the afternoons, on alternating days, I shadowed Dr. Rishi Patel and Dr. Paresh Jaini, both of whom are Child and Adolescent Psychiatrists managing cases of Child ADHD, OCD, Mood Disorders, and Autism Spectrum Disorders. Despite all three being busy psychiatrists, they took the time to answer my questions, teach new concepts and often encouraged me to ask relevant questions. Dr. Murray was kind enough to lend me his psychiatric books on motivational interviewing and psychopharmacology to read during my free time. The long casual late-evening conversations with Dr. Rishi Patel discussing psychiatry were some of the best moments that I always looked forward to.
Unlike other medical specialities, where laboratory tests and imaging play a significant role, in psychiatry, interviewing patients and understanding the subtle nuances of the patient’s behavior are paramount for accurate diagnosis and treatment. Here at this clinic, I had the unique opportunity to observe, learn, and discuss cases with three talented psychiatrists, giving me three unique perspectives on cases, which provided me with deeper insights into approaching patients, arriving at accurate diagnoses, and tailoring treatment plans to meet the patients’ needs.
In addition to the extensive learning experience, Dr. Mehta’s excellent administration made the workspace healthy and enjoyable. Everyone at the clinic ensured that I felt comfortable, well-supported, and that I made the most of this opportunity. As I move forward in my journey to becoming a psychiatrist, I carry the small pieces of my mentors (their skills and advice) with me.
I would also like to express my gratitude to the Dr. Shivani Bhatt Charitable Foundation members and Dr. Hemant Bhatt sir, without whom this opportunity would not have been possible.
Last but not least, I would like to share and cherish a moment at the clinic with fellow SBCF student Dr. Niti Chokshi, who also shared an alma mater with Dr. Shivani Bhatt. Dr. Niti shared stories of Dr. Shivani during her medical school days. Neither of us has ever met Dr. Shivani in person, but we could connect with her dreams and aspirations. Though Dr. Shivani is not with us physically, she is the driving force of this foundation and continues to morally push numerous doctors like me to become better versions of ourselves and make this world a better place for others.