Functional Psychiatry Dallas

Exploring a new kind of psychiatric practice.

Over 30 years of practice, Dr. Shosid noticed that, although patients improved with conventional therapies, for many, there remained residual symptoms or recurrence of symptoms once the acute episode resolved.  So, after much time practicing traditional Psychiatry, utilizing medication and therapy, Dr. Shosid’s focus has shifted to other approaches essential to supporting mental health. This journey began with an interest in exercise as intervention and grew into the exploration of Functional Psychiatry. 

Dr. Shosid believes in an integrative approach to mental health which includes five essential pillars: exercise, nutrition, sleep, mindfulness/spirituality, and relationships/community. However Functional Psychiatry, which may include conventional therapies like medications, goes one step further by utilizing extensive testing and precision medicine. 

Her interest in genetic variables and their role in psychiatric illnesses, in particular the MTHFR gene, led her to complete a fellowship in Functional Psychiatry with Dr. James Greenbaltt, a leading clinician in the field and founder of Psychiatry Redefined. She is excited to bring this information to her patients and, to her delight, they have shown interest as well.  

What is Functional Psychiatry?

Functional Psychiatry is a form of Functional Medicine which can be combined with traditional psychiatry to optimize treatment or may be used as a stand alone treatment approach. Traditional psychiatry is a symptom based approach whereas Functional Psychiatry looks at the root causes of psychiatric illnesses including anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, Eating Disorders and many more. It is based on objective lab testing which assesses nutritional deficiencies, inflammation, gut health, toxicities, hormones, metabolic health and genetic markers. This information is then used to formulate an individualized treatment plan. 

Treatment may include the continuation or use of psychiatric medication or may provide a path to treatment that does not include medication. The  functional approach may allow patients to safely taper off their current medications, if appropriate, or address residual symptoms. Some patients may need medication initially to support their mental health as their functional needs are being addressed, eventually allowing them to taper their medication. Every patient's treatment is based on precision medicine, and that is what makes Functional Psychiatry such a unique treatment model. 

Often recommendations include the use of vitamins, minerals and supplements. Dietary interventions and gut health protocols might be recommended.  Additionally, a focus on a healthy lifestyle which includes sound nutrition, regular exercise, recognizing the importance of and prioritizing sleep, minimizing alcohol use and exposure to toxins, stress reduction and supportive relationships are essential components.