Expert Psychiatric Care for Every Stage of Life
Johns Hopkins trained in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and board-certified in Adult Psychiatry since 1992, Dr. Smita Patel delivers compassionate, integrative mental health care for adolescents and adults — combining expert psychopharmacology with mindfulness-based techniques. Appointments available in-office in Washington, DC and via telemedicine.
Compassionate, Evidence-Based Specialized Care
At Dr. Smita Patel's psychiatric practice, we understand that mental health is deeply personal and complex. Every patient brings unique experiences, challenges, and strengths to their journey toward wellness. With over 30 years of specialized experience and Johns Hopkins training, Dr. Patel offers expert care tailored to each individual's needs — providing compassionate, evidence-based psychiatric support for adolescents and adults.
Our approach combines the latest evidence-based treatments with time-tested clinical expertise. We specialize in a wide range of psychiatric conditions, including anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, autism spectrum disorder, eating disorders, and attention deficit disorder. Whether you're seeking care for yourself or a loved one, you'll find a warm, welcoming environment where your concerns are heard and your goals are prioritized.
What sets Dr. Patel's practice apart is our commitment to integrative psychiatry. We don't simply prescribe medications — we consider the whole person, incorporating lifestyle factors, stress management techniques, and evidence-based complementary approaches alongside conventional treatments when appropriate. Our goal isn't just symptom relief, but helping each patient build lasting resilience and achieve their full potential.
Autism Spectrum Disorder
Comprehensive, individualized care for adolescents and adults across the autism spectrum
Johns Hopkins–Trained Expertise
Dr. Patel brings specialized training and experience in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) across all age groups. From adolescent transitions through adult support, we provide continuity of care that adapts to changing needs over time.
Our approach recognizes that autism manifests uniquely in each individual. We conduct thorough assessments that consider cognitive abilities, communication skills, sensory processing, social functioning, and co-occurring conditions such as anxiety or mood disorders.
Comprehensive Assessment
Thorough diagnostic evaluation
Family-Centered Care
Collaborative approach
Ongoing Support
Long-term treatment planning
School Coordination
Educational collaboration
Our ASD Treatment Approach
- Evidence-based medication management for co-occurring conditions
- Behavioral intervention strategies and skill-building support
- Parent and caregiver guidance and education
- Transition planning for adolescents moving to adult care
- Social skills development and anxiety management
- Coordination with therapists, educators, and other providers
Anxiety & Mood Disorders
Evidence-based treatment for the full spectrum of anxiety disorders and depression, combining medication management with proven therapeutic techniques
Anxiety Disorders We Treat
| Condition | Description | Treatment Approach |
|---|---|---|
| Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) | Excessive, persistent worry about everyday life | Medication management + CBT techniques + mindfulness |
| Social Anxiety Disorder | Intense fear of social situations and judgment | Medication management + CBT techniques + mindfulness |
| Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) | Unwanted thoughts and repetitive behaviors | Medication management + CBT techniques + mindfulness |
| Panic Disorder | Sudden, intense episodes of fear | Medication management + CBT techniques + mindfulness |
| Specific Phobias | Intense fear of specific objects or situations | Medication management + CBT techniques + mindfulness |
Depression Treatment
Depression affects millions of people and can manifest in many forms — from persistent sadness and loss of interest to physical symptoms like fatigue and sleep disturbances. Dr. Patel takes a comprehensive approach to depression treatment, addressing both biological and psychological factors.
We treat major depressive disorder, persistent depressive disorder (dysthymia), bipolar depression, and seasonal affective disorder. Our approach includes careful medication selection and management, close monitoring for side effects and effectiveness, and integration of evidence-based therapeutic strategies when appropriate.
We understand that depression doesn't just affect individuals — it impacts families, relationships, and daily functioning. We work collaboratively with patients to set realistic treatment goals, track progress, and adjust approaches as needed to achieve lasting recovery.
Our Depression Treatment Approach
Comprehensive Assessment
Thorough evaluation of symptoms, medical history, and life circumstances
Personalized Medication
Evidence-based psychopharmacology tailored to your needs
Mindfulness Integration
Complementary techniques to support emotional regulation
Ongoing Monitoring
Regular check-ins to track progress and adjust treatment
The Integrative Difference
Combining the best of evidence-based medicine with holistic approaches to support your complete mental wellness journey
Evidence-Based Psychopharmacology
Carefully selected medications based on the latest research, with close monitoring of effectiveness and side effects
Mindfulness-Based Techniques
Practical tools for stress reduction, emotional regulation, and increased awareness that complement traditional treatment
Lifestyle Medicine Integration
Guidance on sleep, nutrition, exercise, and other lifestyle factors that impact mental health and treatment outcomes
What to Expect from Treatment
| Improvement Area | Typical Timeframe | What You'll Notice |
|---|---|---|
| Symptom Relief | 2-4 weeks | Initial reduction in symptoms with appropriate treatment |
| Functional Improvement | 4-8 weeks | Enhanced daily functioning and quality of life |
| Skill Development | 6-12 weeks | Acquisition of coping and management strategies |
| Lasting Wellness | 3-6 months | Sustained improvement with ongoing support |
"Dr. Patel's integrative approach changed everything for me. It wasn't just about finding the right medication — she helped me understand how sleep, stress management, and even nutrition were affecting my mental health. I finally feel like I have control over my wellness journey."
Patient Testimonial
Treated for anxiety and depression
Who Dr. Patel Treats
Specialized psychiatric care for adolescents and adults
Adolescents
Ages 13-17
Comprehensive mental health support during the critical teen years. We address academic pressure, social anxiety, depression, identity formation, and the unique challenges of navigating adolescence.
Conditions Treated
- Teen Depression
- Social Anxiety
- Attention Deficit Disorder
- Mood Disorders
- Eating Concerns
Adults
Ages 18+
Expert psychiatric care for the full spectrum of adult mental health concerns. From career stress and relationship challenges to complex mood disorders, we provide personalized treatment for lasting wellness.
Conditions Treated
- Anxiety Disorders
- Depression
- Bipolar Disorder
- Work-Life Balance
Whether you're seeking care for yourself or a loved one, Dr. Patel is here to help. With 30+ years of experience, you'll receive expert, compassionate care tailored to your unique needs.
Additional Conditions We Treat
Dr. Patel offers comprehensive psychiatric care across a broad spectrum of conditions, tailored to the unique needs of each patient.
Anxiety Disorders
Evidence-based psychiatric treatment for generalized anxiety, panic disorder, social anxiety, and related conditions across all ages.
Learn MoreDepression
Comprehensive evaluation and personalized medication management for major depressive disorder and persistent depressive conditions.
Learn MoreBipolar Disorder
Expert mood stabilization with compassionate, ongoing support for managing manic and depressive episodes.
Learn MoreAutism Spectrum Disorder
Specialized psychiatric care addressing behavioral, emotional, and co-occurring mental health needs across the autism spectrum.
Learn MoreEating Disorders
Holistic psychiatric care addressing the mental health roots of disordered eating patterns.
Learn MoreAttention Deficit Disorder
Evaluation and treatment for attention, focus, and impulse-control challenges in adolescents and adults.
Learn MoreIf you don't see your specific condition listed, please don't hesitate to reach out. Dr. Patel has over 30 years of experience treating a wide range of mental health concerns and can provide a comprehensive assessment to determine the best approach for your needs.
Insurance & Access
We accept most major insurance plans and offer flexible appointment options to make expert psychiatric care accessible
Insurance Plans Accepted
We also accept out-of-network benefits. Please contact our office to verify your specific coverage and benefits.
Get in Touch
Take the First Step Toward Better Mental Health
With over 30 years of experience and Johns Hopkins training, Dr. Patel is ready to help you or your loved one on the path to wellness. Schedule your appointment today and experience compassionate, expert psychiatric care.