Q. Do you treat all mental conditions in children, adolescents and adults?
A. I offer evaluations of all mental disorder throughout the life cycle. I treat mental disorders through pharmacotheraphy (medication) and limited psychotherapy. There are certain therapeutic techniques that cannot be offered in the setting of a solo private practice. For such occassions, I will offer options of treatment in different settings.
Q. Do you treat mental conditions in an inpatient setting if neccessary ?
A. I am not associated with any hospital in the area, and therefore, if one of my patient's needs inpatient treatment, they will be referred to the closest Emergency Room or to the Gulfport Stabilization Unit of the State of Mississippi.
Q. If at the end of the initial evaluation I do not agree with the treatment plan that you propose, will I be charged for that session?
A. If following the initial evaluation either you or I decide that we should not continue with treatment, you will not be charged with the initial evaluation fee.
Q. A psychiatric practice oprerated in the psychiatrist's residence seems unusual.
A. I will agree; however, this arrangement offers advantages to the clients and myself. Such advantages are privacy, flexibility in making appointments and low operating costs.
Q. How long does Maintenance Phase last?
A. Treatment guidelines do not restrict Suboxone Maintenance to a certain time period. Tapering off Suboxone at some point is a decision made by the patient and supported by the doctor when the patient has been fully reintegrated in social and work environments and is well versed in 12 Step Recovery.
Q. Can I use Benzodiazepines for the treatment of Anxiety?
A. Combining benzodiazepines with Suboxone is a risky undertaking that may result in respiratory depression and even respiratory arrest. Dr. Vamvakas requires abstinence from benzodiazepines with certain exceptions.
Q. Is there a possibility of less frequent sessions in Maintenance Phase?
A. Depending on the person's progress in Recovery the doctor may offer less frequent sessions.