Dr. Suzanne Borkowski

MD

My method focuses less on tackling a specific DSM diagnosis and more on uncovering the roots of your struggles and distress. Psychodynamic therapy focuses on self-awareness and the impact of your past on your present. We all harbor thoughts, feelings, and memories beyond our conscious awareness that significantly influence our behaviors. By uncovering these unconscious patterns and motivations, you can get to the root of your challenges. We work together to build a supportive environment for you to confront feelings & internal conflicts you have previously avoided. Through this process, you can achieve long-term psychological growth with enhanced emotional functioning and improved interpersonal relationships. Whether you're looking to address a specific issue or seeking greater self-awareness, you can experience meaningful personal development and lasting transformations.

During intake, a comprehensive assessment is conducted through questionnaires and an interview over one or two sessions. We cover your primary concerns, medical & psychiatric history, and social background. This snapshot of your unique history provides important context for your concerns. I may ask you to undergo lab or imaging tests if there are no recent results available for review. If I suspect that there are underlying medical issues affecting your well-being, I can refer you to an appropriate specialist. In addition to any therapy or medications, my recommendations often include: educational resources, complementary mental health treatments (e.g., group therapy, peer support, substance use programs), lifestyle changes, or information about community support services. If I need to obtain records from your previous treatment, I generally prefer to wait until after our initial interview to review them. My priority is to hear your perspective first and then build upon that understanding.

I want to emphasize that research consistently indicates that a strong therapeutic alliance is one of the most important predictors of positive treatment outcomes. This highlights the significance of having a ‘good fit’ with your therapist. Within the therapeutic relationship, I feel that authenticity is essential. My goal is to bring my genuine self into our interactions while maintaining professional boundaries. I hope that by doing so, you will feel comfortable sharing your authentic self, including the messy bits. I also believe that a collaborative relationship is key. While I am a physician, I do not adhere to the traditional paternalistic role often associated with doctors. I will share my expertise regarding treatment options, but the emphasis will be on patient education and shared decision-making. If you wish to research a medication I recommend and come back with questions based on what you found on social media, I wholeheartedly encourage it.