Board Certified Psychiatrist
Dr. Valerie Jenkins,
How I View Mental Health Treatment and How I Can Help
I want to first get to know you on a deeper level including your relationships, goals, and where you are feeling stuck in life. My approach to psychiatry is holistic including psychotherapy, lifestyle modifications, and medications when indicated. I find with therapy and medications, individuals symptoms of anxiety and depression often reduce within a few months of working together.
Each patient is unique and my psychotherapy approach reflects that. I often incorporate a psychodynamic approach in treatment which means thinking about how your experiences and relationships impact your mind and behavior today. I work closely to collaborate with other important members of your treatment team such as therapists, primary care doctors, or specialists.
I have additional training in reproductive psychiatry and women’s mental health. I help women with a history of psychiatric symptoms navigate preconception planning and take time to discuss options for treatment during and following pregnancy including while breastfeeding. I help women who are experiencing mental health symptoms postpartum including anxiety, depression, and a general sense of feeling overwhelmed with this life transition.
I also treat women experiencing fluctuations in mood and anxiety during the menstrual cycle as well as in perimenopause. I am passionate about helping women feel understood, empowered, and cared for through every stage of life.
My Additional Expertise in Reproductive Psychiatry and Treating Women
My Background and Training
I obtained my undergraduate degree in Chemical Biology with minors in Philosophy and Health Care Ethics from Saint Joseph’s University in Philadelphia, PA. I attended medical school at the University of Maryland and completed residency at the University of Maryland/Sheppard Pratt Psychiatry Residency Program. During my fourth year of residency, I served as executive chief resident. During my training, I was involved in clinical research in opioid use disorder as well as suicide risk assessment.
Aside from my work in private practice, I work at University of Maryland St. Joseph Medical Center where I provide psychiatric care in the Emergency Room and on the Consult-Liaison service. I also teach and supervise residents at the University of Maryland Medical Center.
I’ve been working with Dr. Valerie Jenkins since before I had my baby, and the support she’s given me has been exceptional at every stage.
PATIENT TESTIMONIAL
She brings genuine care and compassion to every appointment in a way I haven’t often experienced with other providers. She makes me feel heard, understood, and safe with her, and I trust her fully in our journey to find the right treatment for me. I’m incredibly grateful to have found her, and I’ve recommended her to my mom and mom-to-be friends.