Understanding ODD (Oppositional Defiant Disorder) in Children
As a psychiatrist, I often sit with parents who feel completely exhausted. They describe a home life that feels like a battlefield, where simple requests turn into hour-long arguments and daily routines end in tears. If you are reading this, you might be feeling that same exhaustion. You might be wondering if your child’s behavior […]
Telepsychiatry in California: Is Online Care as Effective?
Living in California offers an incredible lifestyle, from the stunning coastlines to the vibrant culture of our cities. However, the fast-paced nature of life here, combined with our infamous traffic, can make prioritizing mental health a logistical challenge. In recent years, I have witnessed a massive shift in how people access medical care. The traditional […]
The Role of Genetics in Mental Illness: Will My Child Inherit It?
One of the most common and heartfelt questions I hear in my practice is, “Dr. Tashkandi, if I have a mental health condition, will my child inherit it?” I can see the worry in parents’ eyes when they ask this. They aren’t just asking for medical statistics; they are looking for reassurance. They want to […]
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for Social Anxiety
Welcome to my blog. I am Dr. Peyman Tashkandi, and if you are reading this, there is a good chance that you or someone you care about is navigating the choppy waters of social anxiety. You might know the feeling all too well: the racing heart before a meeting, the sweaty palms during a dinner […]
Bipolar Disorder Myths vs. Reality: A Psychiatrist’s Perspective
As a psychiatrist, I sit across from new patients every day who feel overwhelmed. They often come to me carrying a heavy burden—not just the weight of their symptoms, but the weight of misunderstandings. They have read things online, heard whispers from family members, or seen characters on television that paint a confusing picture of […]
What is Interventional Psychiatry? Beyond Talk Therapy
As a mental health professional, I often meet people who feel like they have tried everything. They have spent years in talk therapy, exploring their childhoods and analyzing their daily stressors. They have tried various medications, dealing with side effects that range from weight gain to emotional numbness. Yet, the heavy cloud of depression or […]
Executive Function Coaching vs. Medication for ADHD
As a medical professional helping individuals navigate the complexities of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), I often sit across from patients who feel overwhelmed by the choices in front of them. When you or a loved one receives a diagnosis, the immediate question is usually, “What now?” For decades, the conversation was dominated almost exclusively […]
Navigating Divorce: Supporting Your Child’s Mental Health
Navigating the Emotional Landscape of Family Change In my practice, I often meet parents who are deeply worried about how their separation will affect their children. There is a common misconception that divorce permanently damages a child’s future. However, as Dr. Peyman Tashkandi, I want to reassure you that this does not have to be […]
Sleep Disorders and Mental Health: Why Your Child Can’t Focus
As a doctor, I often see parents walk into my office looking exhausted and worried. They usually describe the same scenario: their child is smart and capable, but lately, they just can’t seem to sit still, finish their homework, or control their emotions. The teacher might be suggesting an evaluation for attention issues, and the […]
Adult Autism Diagnosis: It Is Never Too Late to Understand Yourself
Have you ever walked through life feeling like everyone else received an instruction manual that you somehow missed? Maybe you have always felt just a little bit out of sync with your peers, or perhaps social situations leave you feeling exhausted rather than energized. In my practice, I hear these stories often. Many people spend […]