Psychiatrist vs Psychologist vs Therapist - Understanding Your Options
Dr. Joanna Gratton Dr. Joanna Gratton

Psychiatrist vs Psychologist vs Therapist - Understanding Your Options

Psychiatrist vs Psychologist vs Therapist - Which one should I see?

It can feel confusing — especially when you’re already low on energy and clarity. The truth is, psychiatrists, therapists and psychologists can play vital but different roles in mental health care. The best choice often depends on what kind of support you need most right now — medical, emotional or diagnostic.

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Top 5 Signs That It May Be Time To See A Psychiatrist
Dr. Joanna Gratton Dr. Joanna Gratton

Top 5 Signs That It May Be Time To See A Psychiatrist

Often mental health symptoms can develop gradually, making it easy to dismiss or minimize them over time. Many people continue functioning outwardly while quietly struggling internally. This can lead to many people waiting far too long before seeking mental health support.

One of the most common misconceptions about psychiatric care is that someone must be in crisis before seeking support. That is simply not true. You do not need to be in crisis to benefit from psychiatric support.

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Online Mental Health Quizzes: What They Can (and Can’t) Tell You
Stillpoint Psychiatry Stillpoint Psychiatry

Online Mental Health Quizzes: What They Can (and Can’t) Tell You

Being curious about your mental health, wondering whether what you’re feeling is “normal,” and looking for answers are all signs of self-awareness. That deserves recognition.

However, at the same time, it is important to understand what online mental health quizzes can realistically offer - and where they fall short.

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ADHD in Adult Women
Dr. Joanna Gratton Dr. Joanna Gratton

ADHD in Adult Women

ADHD doesn’t care about gender. But somehow, the diagnosis often does. While males are more likely to get diagnosed and treated early on as boys, many girls grow up flying under the radar. And that can mean years- sometimes decades- of struggling without support. Let’s break down why ADHD in women is often overlooked, what a late diagnosis can feel like, and what to do if you think it applies to you.

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Kratom: The “Natural” Supplement That Isn’t as Safe as Some Might Think
Dr. Joanna Gratton Dr. Joanna Gratton

Kratom: The “Natural” Supplement That Isn’t as Safe as Some Might Think

You’ve probably seen it before — little green bags at gas stations, herbal powders sold online, or teas advertised as “plant-based energy.” It’s called Kratom, and it’s often marketed as a harmless, natural alternative for pain, stress, or fatigue. Behind the “all-natural” label hides a substance that acts on the brain much like opioids — and can bring real health risks that most people never hear about.

But here’s the truth: Kratom isn’t nearly as innocent as some would have you believe, rather it is extremely dangerous. In fact the FDA describes it as, “The Next Wave of the Opioid Epidemic”

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“What Should I Expect During My First Psychiatry Visit?”
Dr. Joanna Gratton Dr. Joanna Gratton

“What Should I Expect During My First Psychiatry Visit?”

Your first psychiatry appointment isn’t about being judged or “diagnosed on the spot.” Think of it less as a test or an evaluation, and more as the beginning of a conversation about you — what’s been happening, what you’ve been feeling, what you’re hoping for, and how the psychiatrist might be able to help you feel more like yourself again.

Taking this first step takes courage — and it’s one of the most meaningful things you can do for yourself. You should be proud of yourself for taking this step.

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Hobbies and How They Affect Your Mental Health: Why Your Free Time Matters
Dr. Joanna Gratton Dr. Joanna Gratton

Hobbies and How They Affect Your Mental Health: Why Your Free Time Matters

Spending time doing activities that bring you pleasure is one of the simplest yet most disregarded methods to nurture your mental health. Something magical happens when your body is busy and your mind is allowed to wander. Maybe you’re doodling on a piece of scrap paper, knitting a sweater, chopping vegetables, or turning a pile of Lego bricks into something fun and recognizable. Whatever it is, it might not look like therapy to you, but your brain definitely feels the therapeutic benefit of these “mindless” repetitive tasks.

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Seasonal Affective Disorder - aka The Seasonal “Blahs”
Dr. Joanna Gratton Dr. Joanna Gratton

Seasonal Affective Disorder - aka The Seasonal “Blahs”

Ever feel that “Blah” feeling as you go through a change of season? Yeah, me too. I think that we all feel this way to one degree or another. While most of us get through these blues easily, it can be very challenging for others to overcome. As we approach daylight savings time and as winter begins to creep up on us, I can feel the blahs brewing. This condition is called Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) or Seasonal Depression. and here are 8 simple things that you can do if you feel it creeping in on you..

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How to Find a Good Psychiatrist
Dr. Joanna Gratton Dr. Joanna Gratton

How to Find a Good Psychiatrist

Finding a good psychiatrist is a personal process. Take your time, do your research, and choose a psychiatrist with whom you feel confident and comfortable. Good luck in your search, and congratulations on taking the steps necessary to finding that person! Small steps often result in big differences!

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What Integrative Psychiatry Is - and What It Is Not
Dr. Joanna Gratton Dr. Joanna Gratton

What Integrative Psychiatry Is - and What It Is Not

Integrative psychiatry brings together evidence-based psychiatric medicine with carefully selected lifestyle, mind-body, and holistic strategies. The goal is not to replace traditional psychiatry, but to expand and individualize it.

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