Dear Cherished Patients,
Every day, you inspire me.
I have devoted the majority of my life to doing my very best to help you on your mental health journey. Seventeen years ago, my dear mentor, Dr. Robert Kalter, a brilliant psychiatrist, was tasked with teaching me how to diagnose and prescribe psychiatric medications. While he is an outstanding prescriber, prescribing was not the most important lesson he gave me.
He taught me to see people, not just pathology. He showed me how to be unconventional in my approach — to go the extra mile when someone needs more attention, to step outside the clinic walls when necessary (yes, even giving an injection in the parking lot), to constantly sharpen my psychotherapy skills, and most importantly, to remember that each person has unique needs that sometimes require creative, outside-the-box solutions. The lessons I’ve learned from him are endless.
Another important mentor, Dr. Joseph Simpson, introduced me to integrative, holistic psychiatry — an approach that has allowed me to improve the lives of many who did not benefit from traditional methods. (I’ll share more about this journey another day!)
I share this with you because I want you to understand the heart behind my philosophy of care. I believe you have what it takes to heal within you. My role is to collaborate with you, using all the tools you & I have, to help you build mental stability and resilience.
Recently, I asked my patient, Michael, what advice he would offer to others in recovery. His answer was simple and powerful: persevere.
You inspire me every single day — to fight harder for your mental health, to dig deeper, and to stay by your side on your recovery journey. I admire the courage and effort you put into your healing. Please know: you are not alone. My team and I are with you.
Your mind is precious. Be kind to yourself. Keep trying. Keep fighting. And even on the days when you feel like you can’t fight, I will fight for you.
I believe in you.
With all my heart,
Christina Wei, PhD, PMHNP-BC
Sage Psychiatric Care