Dr. Hadia Shafi. MD.
As an integrative psychiatrist, I bring a blend of clinical expertise and personal understanding to every patient interaction. My journey into medicine started with a family story that's close to my heart. I come from a remote village where access to doctors was scarce, so much so that my family members had to resort to getting care from a veterinary doctor at times. Witnessing this firsthand ignited a fire within me to make healthcare more accessible.
When it came to choosing my path in medicine, psychiatry felt like a natural fit for me, driven by personal experiences. Seeing a number of my elderly family members struggle with late-life depression at the end of their lives, often dismissed as a normal part of aging, fueled my determination to challenge that misconception. Moreover, coming from a long line of people who unknowingly battled ADHD, including myself, I've seen firsthand the impact it can have on family relationships and personal growth. It's disheartening to see the struggles of ADHD being downplayed even by trained physicians, and I'm committed to changing that narrative.
My personal experiences drive my passion for providing compassionate care to adults and geriatric patients facing mental health challenges. My journey shapes my approach, emphasizing understanding, healing, and unlocking the potential within each individual I have the privilege to work with.
I completed my General Psychiatry residency at Duke University and attended Emory University for a Geriatric Psychiatry fellowship. My subsequent work as a Geriatric Psychiatrist at the Emory Brain Health Center provided invaluable insights into the complexities of aging, dementia, and movement disorders, shaping my approach to patient care and healthy aging.
Certified in Neuromodulation treatment modalities such as Electroconvulsive therapy, Transcranial magnetic stimulation, and Ketamine. I bring a depth of understanding to my practice, emphasizing the importance of providing education to patients struggling with treatment-resistant symptoms and early referrals to minimize unnecessary suffering.
My extensive training in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Psychodynamic Psychotherapy informs my clinical approach, ensuring that each patient receives tailored care that addresses their unique needs and circumstances.
My patients describe me as attentive and detail-oriented, ensuring they feel supported and empowered throughout their journey to wellness. I believe in the power of collaboration, recognizing that patients are the experts in their own lives. My philosophy centers on a holistic approach to mental health care, combining medication management, psychotherapy, mindfulness, nutrition, and lifestyle modifications to foster lasting change.
Furthermore, I specialize in working with geriatric patients navigating the challenges of aging, adults grappling with undiagnosed or untreated ADHD, and pre and postpartum women seeking support for ADHD, depression, trauma, or anxiety.
My goal is to help each individual break the cycle of self-doubt, finding fulfillment and success in both their personal and professional lives.
Beyond my clinical practice.
Outside of my clinical work, I am known for my tenacity and commitment to personal growth.
Each year, I embrace new challenges, whether it's mastering a new language or navigating the joys of parenthood.
Growing up in a remote valley surrounded by mountains, I've learned to deeply respect nature and feel healed both physically and spiritually when I'm outdoors.
I learned crochet and knitting from my mom and grandma when I was sevem. In the beginning, my inability to finish and make a product used to frustrate me to no end. However, as I've grown older, I've shifted my mindset to enjoy the journey rather than focusing solely on the destination.
This change has helped me view these hobbies as a way to incorporate mindfulness into my daily life.
I also enjoy spending time with my family which includes my very fluffy cat.
