Michael J. Mahelsky, M.D.
1600 Kapiolani Blvd Ste 1316 Honolulu, HI 96814
347 Fifth Ave, Ste 1002 New York, NY 10016

When I initially began practicing psychiatry, I accepted a position as an inpatient attending at Elmhurst Hospital Center, which was affiliated with Mount Sinai Medical Center. This was quite rewarding, especially in helping me to understand the importance of working closely with other practitioners. The best care was achieved by working together including with the various therapists and counselors who provided many hours of service to meet the needs of the patients.

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Since leaving the hospital setting and building a private practice over the past 25+ years, I've continued to apply this fundamental principle of patient care. Often, patients are referred by their therapist (ie., psychologist, CSW, MSW, RN) for medication evaluation and treatment. Or, a patient may be referred by his/her primary care physician or another specialist for the same reason. In either case, after meeting with the patient and completing my initial evaluation (which lasts between 60 and 75 minutes), I strive to coordinate care with the referring practitioner. After receiving the patient's written authorization, I call the therapist or physician directly and discuss important treatment matters, including medications recommended and/or started. The goal is the coordinated care to achieve the best overall treatment for each individual patient.

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When a prospective patient calls the office seeking evaluation and/or treatment, I speak directly with that person in order to establish an initial rapport and address any questions asked. This often reduces any initial discomfort and encourages the individual to discuss his/her questions and ideas openly right from the start. In order to have a successful treatment, it is most important that the patient feels comfortable talking freely and thoroughly during their sessions.