Dr. Janette Torres-Cruz, MD

Dr. Janette Torres-Cruz, MD is a Psychiatrist dedicated to empowering patients with proactive, comprehensive Psychiatric care at her Orlando, FL clinic. Registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practicing under Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice), she understands that General Psychiatrists are your primary partners in preventive mental healthcare. This involves diagnosing and managing mental health disorders through medication and therapy, preventing relapse through proactive long-term care plans, coordinating crucial screenings, and fostering overall wellness to empower your journey to lasting mental health. She serves individuals of all ages, and patients should call (407) 518-5004 to confirm if she is currently accepting new patients.

Dr. Janette Torres-Cruz, MD is a psychiatrist in Orlando, FL with over 30 years of experience in the medical field. With a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care, she brings a dedication to collaborative, evidence-based medicine, creating a supportive environment where patients feel empowered to take an active role in their long-term health. She earned her medical degree from University Of Medical Sciences Of San Juan Bautista in 1991 and is Board Certified in Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology. Affiliated with AdventHealth Orlando and Winter Haven Hospital, Dr. Torres-Cruz is also accepting telehealth appointments. While she provides consultations primarily in English, her commitment to patient well-being transcends language barriers.

A key part of the WePrevent mission is building your personalized prevention roadmap. Dr. Janette Torres-Cruz is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on proactive strategies to protect and enhance your long-term health.

By working together, you and Dr. Janette Torres-Cruz can create a clear, actionable plan to address your unique risk factors and health goals.

A proactive approach to health involves understanding and managing potential risks. Dr. Janette Torres-Cruz provides expert care for a range of conditions, focusing on early detection and effective management to support your long-term wellness. Common areas of focus include:

• Cocaine Addiction: Managing cocaine addiction effectively reduces the risk of relapse and associated health problems, such as heart disease and stroke.
• Psychosis: Psychosis is characterized by hallucinations and delusions, and proactive care including medication and therapy significantly reduces the likelihood of these symptoms recurring.
• Suicidal Ideation: Experiencing thoughts of suicide is a crucial indicator needing early intervention; proactive management can significantly reduce the risk of self-harm and improve overall mental well-being.
• ADHD and-or ADD: Regular monitoring and proactive management of ADHD and/or ADD symptoms can reduce the likelihood of relapses and improve overall long-term well-being.
• Psychosis Due to Mental Illness: Managing psychosis effectively, which frequently arises from an underlying mental health condition, is essential for preventing relapses and improving overall quality of life.
• Phobia: By proactively addressing phobic anxieties, you can prevent them from becoming debilitating and significantly improve your quality of life, reducing the risk of related mental health challenges.
• Nondependent Drug and Alcohol Abuse: By addressing non-dependent substance use, you can proactively protect your mental and physical health and avoid future problems related to addiction.
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Recognizing the signs of PTSD after a trauma is crucial for preventative care. Seeking professional help early allows for prompt treatment and reduces the likelihood of developing severe, long-term symptoms.
• Nondependent Alcohol Abuse: Nondependent alcohol abuse, while not an addiction, can still harm your health and increase your risk for more serious problems down the line; early intervention and lifestyle changes can prevent these complications.
• Alcohol-Induced Mental Disorders: Excessive alcohol use can trigger or worsen mental health problems, so monitoring your drinking and seeking help early is crucial for preventing long-term mental health issues.
• Nondependent Marijuana Abuse: Regular check-ins with your doctor about your marijuana use can help identify potential problems before they negatively impact your mental well-being and overall health.
• Drug and Alcohol Dependence: Preventive care for drug and alcohol dependence involves early intervention strategies to stop substance abuse before it causes irreversible damage.

This list highlights some common health concerns and is for informational purposes only. The best way to understand your personal health and create a prevention plan is to schedule a consultation. Accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plans are developed based on individual patient evaluations.

Taking proactive steps is central to long-term health. Dr. Janette Torres-Cruz offers a range of key preventive screenings and services designed to provide crucial insights into your health and support your well-being:

• Alcohol or Substance Misuse Screening and Counseling: Invest in your mental health journey by undergoing alcohol and substance misuse screening; this assessment helps uncover hidden issues that may be affecting your overall health.
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Strengthen your mental health foundation and prevent future episodes by engaging in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), a therapy proven to improve symptoms and promote long-term well-being.
• Dementia or Depression Screening: Invest in your future by getting screened for dementia and depression; early intervention can help prevent debilitating symptoms and preserve cognitive function.
• Psychiatric Evaluation: Protect your mental health by scheduling a psychiatric evaluation; it helps screen for various conditions and allows for timely intervention.
• Psychological Evaluation: A psychological evaluation is a proactive measure to detect early signs of mental health challenges, enabling prompt intervention and reducing the risk of worsening symptoms.
• Psychological Evaluations Prior to Bariatric Surgery: For a safer and more effective bariatric surgery experience, a pre-operative psychological evaluation helps identify and manage mental health challenges, promoting successful weight loss and overall well-being.
• Psychotherapy and Psychophysiological Therapy (incl. Biofeedback): Enhance your mental wellness by engaging in psychotherapy and psychophysiological therapy to learn strategies for managing symptoms, preventing future episodes, and improving your overall quality of life.

Service availability can change, and not all services listed may be appropriate for every patient. For a comprehensive understanding of all available services and to create your personalized screening plan, please schedule a consultation.

All medical services are provided in accordance with the standard scope of practice for Psychiatrists in Florida.

Dr. Janette Torres-Cruz is dedicated to partnering with Caregivers to achieve their unique health objectives. The following examples illustrate how a proactive approach can make a tangible difference in a Patient's life:

• By developing a personalized prevention plan and attending regular therapy sessions, a patient significantly reduced their risk of cocaine addiction relapse and associated health concerns. This proactive approach fostered a sense of control and well-being.
• By proactively managing their medication and attending therapy sessions, a patient significantly reduced the risk of experiencing psychosis symptoms, finding peace of mind in their ongoing well-being.
• Recognizing early warning signs and developing a proactive management plan, a patient significantly reduced their risk of suicidal thoughts, fostering a sense of hope and control over their mental well-being.

These scenarios are illustrative examples of positive health outcomes. Individual results may vary and depend on many factors specific to each patient. She will work with you to define and achieve your personal health goals.

Here are answers to some common questions about proactive Psychiatric care with Dr. Janette Torres-Cruz:

What is a Psychiatrist, and how are they different from a Psychologist?

Dr. Torres-Cruz is a medical doctor specializing in mental health. She can prescribe and manage medications, in addition to providing therapy, unlike a psychologist who is a therapist but cannot prescribe medication.

What can I expect during my first psychiatric evaluation with Dr. Janette Torres-Cruz?

Your first visit with Dr. Torres-Cruz will involve a comprehensive medical and psychiatric assessment. This will cover your medical history, current symptoms, and life circumstances to help arrive at an accurate diagnosis. This initial evaluation is the first step in developing a personalized treatment plan, which may include medication, therapy, or a combination of both.

Do I have to take medication if I see a psychiatrist?

No, medication is not required. Dr. Torres-Cruz will discuss all treatment options, including psychotherapy and lifestyle changes, to determine the best approach for you. Medication is a collaborative decision, considered when it best helps prevent symptoms from worsening and improves your quality of life.

What is Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT)?

Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is a safe, modern medical procedure for severe mental health conditions like treatment-resistant depression. Performed under general anesthesia, it involves a brief, controlled electrical stimulation of the brain. It's a highly effective option when other treatments have not worked, preventing potentially life-threatening symptoms.

How long will I need to be on psychiatric medication?

The duration of psychiatric medication is highly individualized, depending on your specific condition and response to treatment. For some, it may be short-term, while for others, it's a long-term management strategy, similar to managing other chronic health conditions. This is a discussion best had with Dr. Torres-Cruz.

How does Dr. Janette Torres-Cruz manage medication side effects?

Dr. Torres-Cruz is dedicated to finding the medication that provides the most benefit with the fewest side effects. She carefully starts with low doses, closely monitors your response, and is skilled at adjusting dosages or changing medications to achieve the best possible outcome.

How can medication help prevent a relapse of my depression or bipolar disorder?

Psychiatric medications, like antidepressants or mood stabilizers, help correct chemical imbalances in the brain, creating stability. This stability allows you to fully engage in therapy and use your coping skills, which are key in preventing future episodes. Consistent treatment is essential for ongoing well-being.

What is the role of a psychiatrist in treating eating disorders?

Dr. Torres-Cruz leads the treatment team for eating disorders, monitoring physical health, managing co-occurring conditions with medication, and collaborating with therapists and dietitians to ensure a safe and effective recovery.

5201 Raymond St
Orlando FL 32803
Phone: (407) 518-5004

Dr. Janette Torres-Cruz, MD is regulated by the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice) in Florida and is licensed by The Florida Board of Medicine.

National Provider Identifier (NPI): 1013966449

Registration can typically be verified through The Florida Board of Medicine website or by direct inquiry.

The information on this profile, provided by weprevent.org, is for general informational purposes and to help you connect with preventive health partners. It does not constitute direct medical advice from the physician named. Psychiatrists like Dr. Janette Torres-Cruz are skilled in helping patients create proactive health plans. For urgent or life-threatening emergencies, please call 911 or visit the nearest emergency department. It is always recommended to maintain open communication with your psychiatrist about all aspects of your health and your personalized prevention plan.