EVMS Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences

“I went into this appointment as a concerned family member trying to get help for a loved one with a severe mental illness. My loved one was already very apprehensive about the appointment, and unfortunately, the experience only reinforced those concerns. Early in the visit, the provider appeared unfamiliar with my loved one's medical history. She asked about current medications and whether my loved one had another psychiatric provider. When my loved one explained that the previous provider had not been helping, the provider then asked how she had been doing. Had the provider reviewed the medical records before the appointment, she would have seen that my loved one had experienced four inpatient psychiatric admissions in the past two months, including two involuntary admissions under Temporary Detention Orders. This information was readily available and highly relevant to understanding the severity of the situation. I also asked what legal options might be available to help ensure my loved one receives the treatment she clearly needs. Rather than receiving guidance or resources, I was simply told to consult a lawyer. I have never left a medical appointment feeling as hopeless and unsupported as I did after this one. When families seek psychiatric care, they are often doing so during a crisis and need providers who are prepared, informed, and engaged. Unfortunately, that was not my experience with this practice. Based on this experience, I cannot recommend this practice to families seeking help for a loved one with serious mental illness.”

“RESIDENT DREW GREHAN IS A COMPLETE LIAR HE WAS CONSULTED TO SEE ME THEN ASKED ME WHAT MEDICATION I HAVE BEEN ON IN THE PAST I TOLD HIM BUT THEN HE PUT THAT SOMEBODY WAS LOOKING FOR OPITATES WHEN I GET THEM PRESCRIBED AND I COULDVE SWORN ATIVAN NOR XANX WASNT A OPITAE ITS BAD ENOUGH IM BLACK HAVE SICKLE CELL AND IN & OUT OF THE HOSPITAL THEN WANNA LIE IN YOUR NOTES AND SIGN OFF WHEN I NEVER ASKED TO B CONSULTED!”

“I am so grateful for this team of amazing people. They are a Godsend and have treated me and my family with the utmost dignity and respect. I have been fully supported by this team of amazing people since 2020. Although it does take up to 3 days for physicians to respond sometimes, with the shortage of providers in mental health, it is understandable. They too, deserve empathy and have MY support. Full of gratitude for people who TRULY care.”

“my doctor here actually saved my life. thank you James for everything you do for your patients. I know I got lucky.”