Dr. Jenny Chang, DO

Dr. Jenny Chang, DO is a Psychiatrist dedicated to empowering patients with proactive, comprehensive Psychiatric care at her clinic in Tamarac, FL. Registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practicing under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice), she recognizes that General Psychiatrists are your primary partners in preventive mental healthcare. This encompasses 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.

Dr. Jenny Chang, DO is a psychiatrist in Tamarac, FL, affiliated with St. Anthony's Hospital and HCA Florida Woodmont Hospital. She is Board Certified in Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology and welcomes new patients to begin their proactive health journey. Her approach to care is rooted in collaborative, evidence-based medicine, creating a supportive environment where patients feel empowered to take an active role in their long-term health. She is accepting new patients and can be reached by calling (954) 721-2200 to schedule. Dr. Jenny Chang provides consultations primarily in English.

A key part of the WePrevent mission is building your personalized prevention roadmap. Dr. Jenny Chang 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. Jenny Chang 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. Jenny Chang 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:

• Nondependent Antidepressant Abuse: Preventing problems with antidepressants requires understanding that even non-addictive medications can be misused, potentially delaying your progress towards better mental wellness. Early detection is key.
• 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.
• Opioid Dependence: Early detection of opioid dependence is crucial for preventing chronic pain, overdose, and other dangerous health complications.
• Schizoid and Schizotypal Personality Disorder: Early detection of schizoid and schizotypal personality disorders can help prevent social isolation and relationship difficulties, improving overall quality of life.
• Nondependent Alcohol Abuse: Regularly assessing your alcohol consumption is important for preventing potential health problems; managing nondependent alcohol abuse proactively reduces risks associated with heavier drinking.
• Amphetamine or Related Acting Sympathomimetic Abuse: Preventing relapse from amphetamine misuse requires ongoing monitoring and management; early diagnosis and treatment are key to long-term recovery.
• Nondependent Drug and Alcohol Abuse: Taking steps to manage non-dependent drug and alcohol use helps safeguard against developing more serious substance use disorders that may impact many aspects of your life.
• Personality Disorders: Learning coping mechanisms and practicing self-awareness, especially with a therapist's guidance, can help prevent the negative consequences associated with personality disorders.
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Managing PTSD effectively through therapy and medication can minimize the risk of relapses and allow you to live a fulfilling life, free from the overwhelming symptoms.
• Antisocial Personality Disorder: Addressing the underlying issues contributing to antisocial personality disorder, like childhood trauma, can reduce the likelihood of relapse into destructive patterns.
• Mood Disorders (Dysthymia and Cyclothymia): Managing mood swings characteristic of dysthymia and cyclothymia is crucial to avoid serious complications such as major depressive disorder or bipolar disorder, promoting a healthier and more stable life.
• Amphetamine and Other Psychostimulant Dependence: Recognizing the signs of amphetamine and other psychostimulant dependence allows for timely intervention, potentially preventing chronic health issues and improving quality of life.

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. Jenny Chang offers a range of key preventive screenings and services designed to provide crucial insights into your health and support your well-being:

• 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.
• Group Psychotherapy: Take a proactive step toward better mental health by participating in group therapy, a valuable tool for identifying early signs of mental illness and developing effective coping mechanisms.
• Psychiatric Evaluation: Take charge of your mental well-being with a psychiatric evaluation; it's a crucial step in early diagnosis and treatment of potential mental health disorders.
• Psychotherapy and Psychophysiological Therapy (incl. Biofeedback): Take proactive steps towards better mental wellbeing by exploring psychotherapy and psychophysiological therapies, which can help identify and address underlying mental health concerns before they worsen.
• Psychiatric Evaluation - Child and Adolescent: A psychiatric evaluation for children and adolescents is a proactive step to identify and address mental health concerns early, potentially preventing more serious issues later in life.
• Mental Status Examination: As part of your ongoing mental health care, a mental status exam allows your doctor to monitor your progress and adjust treatment to prevent setbacks.
• Dual Diagnosis Treatment: Early identification of co-occurring disorders through dual diagnosis treatment allows for prompt intervention, minimizing the severity of symptoms 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. Jenny Chang 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 understanding potential misuse of non-addictive antidepressants, a patient proactively managed their mental health, ensuring a smoother path toward wellness. This proactive approach gave the patient peace of mind and confidence in their treatment plan.
• By understanding the potential risks of excessive alcohol use and developing a personalized plan, a patient was able to effectively manage their drinking and maintain positive mental well-being. This proactive approach allowed them to prevent future mental health challenges and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
• Recognizing the early warning signs of potential opioid dependence, a patient proactively engaged in a personalized treatment plan, significantly reducing their risk of developing chronic pain and other complications. This proactive approach provided the patient with peace of mind and empowered them to make informed decisions about their health.

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. Jenny Chang:

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

Dr. Chang is a medical doctor specializing in mental health. She can diagnose and treat mental health conditions, including prescribing and managing medications, in addition to providing therapy. Psychologists, while also providing therapy, are not medical doctors and cannot prescribe medication.

What can I expect during my first psychiatric evaluation with Dr. Jenny Chang?

Your first visit with Dr. Chang will involve a comprehensive medical and psychiatric assessment. This includes reviewing your medical history, symptoms, and life circumstances to arrive at an accurate diagnosis. This is the first step in developing a holistic treatment plan, which may include medication, therapy, or both.

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

No, medication is not required. Dr. Chang will discuss all treatment options, including psychotherapy and lifestyle changes, and medication is a collaborative decision, recommended only when it's the most effective way to prevent symptoms from worsening and improve your quality of life.

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

Dr. Chang plays a crucial role in leading the treatment team for eating disorders. She monitors physical health, manages co-occurring conditions with medication, and collaborates closely with therapists and dietitians to support a safe and effective recovery.

How long will I need to be on psychiatric medication?

The duration of psychiatric medication is highly individualized, depending on your specific needs and condition. For some, it may be short-term, while for others, it's a long-term management tool, similar to managing a chronic health condition. This is an ongoing conversation with Dr. Chang.

Can you provide therapy in addition to medication management?

Dr. Chang offers both medication management and psychotherapy. Her approach is collaborative, working closely with patients' therapists to ensure a comprehensive treatment plan. She emphasizes a holistic approach to mental health, integrating medication and therapy for optimal outcomes.

What is the medical approach to treating addiction?

Dr. Chang's approach to addiction treatment is a comprehensive medical one, utilizing FDA-approved medications like Suboxone® or Vivitrol® to manage cravings and prevent relapse. This is combined with counseling and support to provide patients with the best chance of long-term recovery.

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 a foundation of stability. This allows you to fully engage in therapy and utilize your coping skills, significantly reducing the risk of future episodes. Consistent treatment is key to preventing relapse.

7201 N University Dr
Tamarac FL 33321
Phone: (954) 721-2200

Dr. Jenny Chang, DO 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): 1952860249

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. Jenny Chang 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.