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KIDS PSYCHIATRISTS DEPRESSION PARKLAND

We are a collaborative team with kids psychiatrists near Parkland experienced in treating Depression.

Our kids psychiatrists near Parkland offer in-person and virtual appointments

In-person appointments offered at our nearby Boca Raton office

Doctor Sam, LLC
2600 N Military Trail
Ste 355
Boca Raton, FL 33431


Child, Adolescent & Adult Psychiatrists
Dr. Sam/ Dr. Vittori
Treats ages 3 and older
Photograph of Samantha Saltz, MD
Samantha Saltz, MD
Psychiatrist
Ages: 3 yrs - Adult
Dr. Sam is a double board-certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist. She is the founding member and fearless leader of the Doctor Sam team...
About Dr. Sam
Dr
Angela Vittori, MD
Psychiatrist
Ages: 3 yrs - Adult
Dr. Vittori is a board-certified psychiatrist treating children, adolescents & adults.
About Dr. Vittori
Board-Certified
Adult Psychiatry
Dr. Stark / Dr. Kroin
Photograph of Matthew Stark, MD
Matthew Stark, MD
Psychiatrist
Ages: 15 yrs - Adult
Dr. Stark is a board-certified psychiatrist. He is award winning, empathetic and believes in a team-approach to medicine...
About Dr. Stark
Jessica Kroin, MD
Jessica Kroin, MD
Psychiatrist
Ages: 12 yrs - Adult
Dr. Kroin is a board-certified psychiatrist.  She is authentic, compassionate and has a passion for working with teenagers and adults...
About Dr. Kroin
Support
Illustration of Animated Josh
Josh
Digital Assistant
Josh assists Doctor Sam with all things digital...
About Josh

Learn more about depression

Major Depressive Disorder, known commonly as depression, is a frequently diagnosed mental health condition that is one of the leading causes of disability and mortality across the entire world. It is a recurrent disorder associated with persistent low mood, low self-esteem or loss of interest in previous interests that is sustained for a period of at least two weeks. Depression causes many people to suffer multiple bouts of illness and frequently affects all aspects of an individual’s life. 

Symptoms

Symptoms of depression universally involve low mood, loss of interest or pleasure, weight changes, energy level changes, sleep difficulties, poor concentration, guilt, and can include recurrent thoughts of death. In its most severe form, depression can often lead to suicidal actions or attempts, and can be a life-threatening disorder. These symptoms often permeate into all aspects of life, and can often lead to withdrawal and isolation, with poor insight into what is causing these issues.  It is important to note that depression very closely overlaps symptoms of other disorders and conditions, and often appears alongside symptoms of anxiety, traumatic exposures, obsessionality, and physical ailments. Depression is believed to be caused by a combination of genetics, psychological stressors, and environmental factors. 

Depression is not limited to adults, and symptoms can extend into adolescence or childhood. Symptoms in younger age groups may also include agitation or irritability, mood swings, hallucinations, and non-suicidal self-injurious behaviors. In these populations, depression is often under diagnosed, yet it is important to recognize and bring to the attention of primary care or pediatric medical specialists, such as a child & adolescent psychiatrist. 

Assessment &
Diagnosis

Assessment for depression typically involves a formal evaluation by a psychiatrist. Current research suggests that depression is likely a result of genetic factors, brain changes, physical or medical conditions, and life circumstance (such as trauma). Informational tools such as rating scales, checklists, and evaluations can also be helpful in clarifying whether symptoms meet criteria for a diagnosis of Major Depressive Disorder. It is important to rule out any medical or neurological issues that may be contributing or accounting for symptoms.

Treatment

Treatments for depression are based on severity of symptoms, and often involve the use of psychopharmacology, individual psychotherapy, or a combined treatment with both modalities. Individual therapy can assist with altering cognitive distortions, and negative thoughts, with popular modalities including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), supportive psychotherapy, and psychodynamic psychotherapy. Medications similarly can improve symptoms, which depending on the individuals specific circumstances could include the use of antidepressants, antipsychotic medications, anti-anxiety treatments, or medication for insomnia. Working with a psychiatrist can help alleviate depressive symptoms which can affect day-to-day functioning and quality of life. It is recommended to consult closely with a your doctor to discuss benefits and risks of  medications. Effective treatment typically involves family support, as well as close monitoring and follow-ups with your doctor and/or therapist. Additionally, lifestyle modifications, including diet and exercise can be helpful in improving some symptoms of depression. 

The Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available for everyone, is free, and confidential. Simply dial 988 to speak with someone.

If you are having suicidal thoughts or concerns for your safety, call 911 immediately or go to your local emergency room.

Depression

Major Depressive Disorder, known commonly as depression, is a frequently...

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Frequently Asked Questions

WHY SHOULD A PATIENT GO TO DOCTOR SAM?

While there are many important traits in a finding a behavioral health provider, there are five things that Doctor Sam believes are critical to getting a patient well. These include time, the therapeutic alliance, commitment to treatment, being open-minded and developing strength. When you book an appointment with Doctor Sam, we devote 100% of time to you. We really listen to what you feel, need and believe. Over time, this develops a unique alliance where you truly feel comfortable speaking with your doctor and you commit yourself to treatment in a way similar to how your doctor is committed to you. Together you build trust in each other and through a professional lens, your doctor will gently guide you to finding tools that will help you in your day-to-day life. Your doctor will reinforce your strengths and help you identify energy that you did not know existed. While all physicians hope to provide this level of treatment, this care takes time and knowledge that appointments with us will deliver.

DOES DOCTOR SAM DO MEDICATION MANAGEMENT, THERAPY OR BOTH?

Doctor Sam provides both medication management and therapy. Our therapy services complement the psychiatric services offered in the practice. Our doctors have extensive training in both therapy and medication management, which is rather unique to the field of psychiatry. Some patients may only need medication management. Others may need therapy as well. Together with your doctor, you will determine the best treatment plan for you or your child.

HOW LONG IS A TYPICAL SESSION WITH DOCTOR SAM?

Sessions vary in length depending on the services provided. Sessions with therapy typically last longer than sessions that are exclusively for medication management, unless more time is needed. If you have a child who is being seen at Doctor Sam, your doctor will ask to spend time with both you and your child. Sessions can also be scheduled back to back upon request. Please contact a member of Doctor Sam to see how long your appointment will be.

WHAT IS THE WAIT TIME FOR DOCTOR SAM?

While there may be a wait to see a doctor at Doctor Sam, we will try and provide you with an appointment as soon as possible, particularly if you are flexible with scheduling. If there is an urgent matter, we will try and accommodate.  We treat each patient as if they are family and will provide you with the best care and individualized treatment available.

DO YOU ACCEPT INSURANCE?

While Doctor Sam does not accept insurance, we are happy to provide you with a superbill that can be submitted to your insurance company if you have out-of-network benefits.

CAN I USE MY INSURANCE TO HELP COVER THE COSTS OF TREATMENT?

Upon request, we will provide you with a form that you can submit to your insurance company for possible reimbursement should you choose to use your insurance. Insurance companies vary as to how much they will reimburse and insurance companies may not be able to cover the full cost of treatment. This is because we devote a unique amount of time, dedication and individualized care to each of our patients. This allows us to provide a higher level of care that some in network providers may not be able to give. Our practice and your doctor are dedicated to your treatment.

CAN DOCTOR SAM ELECTRONICALLY PRESCRIBE MEDICATIONS FOR ME?

Yes! Doctor Sam has full e-prescribing capabilities. You don’t need to worry about having a physical prescription. Prescriptions can be sent directly to the pharmacy of your choice and be picked up at your earliest convenience.

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE FOR MEDICATIONS TO START WORKING?

The answer to this question depends on what medication is prescribed and what condition it is treating. Discuss this question with our office directly for an answer on a case-by-case basis.

HOW CAN I PREPARE FOR MY FIRST APPOINTMENT?

Initial Call

To make an appointment with Doctor Sam, please call (561) 510-9150. We will provide you with a brief phone consultation free of charge.

Scheduling

If we are a good fit to work together, you will be scheduled with an appointment date and time. Due to COVID-19, most appointments are being conducted via our secure Zoom portal -- although we expect to start offering in-person appointments soon. Changes to appointments must be made no less than 48 hours before your scheduled appointment time. 

New Patient Forms

Within 1 day of scheduling your appointment, you will receive an email to review and electronically sign Doctor Sam’s new patient forms. These forms must be completed prior to your appointment.

Invitation to Patient Portal

You will also receive a personal invitation to your patient portal. The portal gives you access to secure messaging, appointments, forms and questionnaires administered by Doctor Sam. 

Complete Diagnostic Questionnaire

Once your portal is activated, you will have access to "Check-in" to your appointment and complete a diagnostic questionnaire. The diagnostic questionnaire should be completed at least 24-hours before your appointment. You should not wait until right before your appointment to "Check-in" and complete the questionnaire -- the earlier you complete it, the better.

Review by Doctor

Your doctor will review your new patient forms and diagnostic questionnaire prior to your appointment, giving us a clear picture of  the reason for your visit and your history. Your upcoming appointment will be tailored accordingly to your individual needs and requests.

Appointment

You will meet with your doctor via our secure Zoom portal, or if your were scheduled for an in-person visit, at our office in Boca Raton. We usually run on time and there is no wait. 

5-Star Mental Health Experience

5/5

Find one person and make their day better. Repeat.

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Call us

(561) 510-9150
Fax: (561) 600-9655

Office

2600 North Military Trail
Suite 355
Boca Raton, Florida 33431

Hours

Monday – Friday
9:00am - 5pm

onPatient Portal

Current patient secure messaging. Access via the web, or download the app in the Apple App Store.

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