Dr. John Billingsley, MD

Dr. John Billingsley, MD is a Psychiatrist dedicated to empowering patients with proactive, comprehensive Psychiatric care. As a partner in preventive health featured on weprevent.org, he practices at his clinic in Panama City, FL, and is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine, practicing under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). General Psychiatrists are your primary partners in preventive mental healthcare, 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. He serves individuals of all ages and is committed to collaborative, evidence-based medicine, creating a supportive environment where patients feel empowered to take an active role in their long-term health. Please call (850) 763-0017 to confirm if he is currently accepting new patients.

Dr. John Billingsley, MD is a psychiatrist in Panama City, FL with over 40 years of experience in the medical field. He earned his medical degree from University of Louisville in 1981 and is Board Certified in Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology. He is affiliated with Northwest Florida Community Hospital. With over 40 years of dedicated experience in Psychiatric care, he brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to his patients and their families. Dr. Billingsley is committed to providing comprehensive care, focusing on prevention and proactive management of mental health conditions. He is a strong advocate for patient empowerment and collaboration in achieving optimal well-being. Dr. John Billingsley provides consultations primarily in English.

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

• Antisocial Personality Disorder: Understanding the risk factors for antisocial personality disorder helps in early intervention, potentially mitigating the severity of symptoms and improving quality of life.
• Dissociative Disorder: Preventive care for dissociative disorders focuses on providing a supportive environment and developing coping mechanisms to reduce the chance of future dissociative episodes.
• Narcissistic Personality Disorder: Early detection of narcissistic personality disorder is crucial for preventing strained relationships and workplace conflicts, promoting healthier interactions and overall well-being.
• Hallucinogen Dependence: Hallucinogen dependence, if left untreated, can significantly increase your risk of experiencing serious mental and physical health problems, highlighting the importance of early intervention and preventive care.
• Eating Disorders: Early detection and treatment of eating disorders are crucial for preventing long-term health complications and improving overall well-being.
• Nondependent Marijuana Abuse: Early intervention for nondependent marijuana abuse can help you develop healthier coping mechanisms and prevent reliance on marijuana to manage stress or other challenges.
• Alcohol-Induced Mental Disorders: Managing your alcohol consumption can protect your mental wellbeing; reducing alcohol intake can prevent or lessen the severity of alcohol-induced mental health disorders.
• Nightmare Disorder: Untreated nightmare disorder can lead to sleep deprivation and increased stress, potentially worsening existing mental health conditions; addressing nightmares early improves both sleep quality and mental health.
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Preventing PTSD involves recognizing and managing the risk factors associated with trauma exposure and seeking help promptly if symptoms such as nightmares, flashbacks, or anxiety develop after a distressing experience.
• Anxiety: Addressing anxiety proactively through therapy or medication can significantly reduce the risk of future anxiety attacks and related complications like depression.
• Nondependent Cocaine Abuse: Early intervention for cocaine abuse is crucial to prevent the development of serious health problems and addiction.
• Schizoid and Schizotypal Personality Disorder: Addressing the social withdrawal and unusual thinking patterns of schizoid and schizotypal personality disorders early on helps minimize long-term challenges and improve prognosis.

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. John Billingsley 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): As part of your proactive mental healthcare plan, consider CBT to learn techniques for managing stress, anxiety, and depression, reducing the risk of relapse.
• Couples Therapy: Proactively addressing relational conflicts through couples therapy can significantly reduce the risk of relapse and improve your mental health outcomes.
• Dementia or Depression Screening: Take a proactive step towards maintaining your cognitive health by undergoing a screening that helps detect early signs of dementia or depression.
• Family Psychotherapy: Strengthening your family's ability to cope with mental health concerns, family psychotherapy helps prevent future crises and promotes overall well-being for everyone.
• Group Psychotherapy: Group therapy offers a supportive environment to discuss challenges, learn coping skills, and prevent future mental health setbacks.
• 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.
• Psychological Evaluation: Take a proactive step towards better mental wellbeing with a psychological evaluation; it's a thorough assessment that helps uncover underlying mental health conditions, paving the way for effective treatment.
• Psychological Evaluations Prior to Bariatric Surgery: Before bariatric surgery, a psychological evaluation helps identify any mental health conditions that could affect your recovery and ensures you're well-supported throughout the process.
• Psychotherapy and Psychophysiological Therapy (incl. Biofeedback): Improve your mental health by participating in psychotherapy and psychophysiological therapy; these techniques can help you manage stress, learn coping skills, and prevent future relapses.

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. John Billingsley 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 the risk factors for antisocial personality disorder, a patient developed strategies to manage potential triggers, leading to a more stable and fulfilling life.
• By actively participating in therapy and building strong coping skills, a patient felt empowered to prevent future dissociative episodes and maintain a stable sense of self. This proactive approach fostered a positive outlook and a greater sense of control over their well-being.
• By understanding the early warning signs of potential narcissistic personality disorder tendencies, a patient was able to proactively address potential relationship challenges and develop healthier communication patterns, leading to improved self-awareness and stronger interpersonal connections.

These scenarios are illustrative examples of positive health outcomes. Individual results may vary and depend on many factors specific to each patient. He 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. John Billingsley:

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

Dr. Billingsley is a medical doctor specializing in mental health. He can prescribe and manage medications, in addition to providing therapy, unlike psychologists who are experts in psychotherapy and testing but do not prescribe medication.

What can I expect during my first psychiatric evaluation with Dr. John Billingsley?

Your first visit with Dr. Billingsley will involve a comprehensive medical and psychiatric assessment. This will cover 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. Billingsley 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.

How are panic attacks treated with medication?

Dr. Billingsley's practice uses a two-pronged approach to medication for panic attacks. Daily preventive medications, like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), aim to reduce the overall frequency and intensity of attacks. Fast-acting anti-anxiety medications may be used as needed for acute episodes.

What is the medical approach to treating addiction?

Dr. Billingsley's approach to addiction treatment is a comprehensive medical model. This includes FDA-approved medications like Suboxone® or Vivitrol® to help reduce cravings and prevent relapse. He combines these medical treatments with counseling and support to provide patients with the best possible chance for long-term recovery.

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 might be short-term, while for others, it's a long-term strategy to manage symptoms and prevent relapse, similar to managing chronic conditions. This is something we'll discuss further with Dr. Billingsley.

What is TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation)?

TMS is a non-invasive, FDA-approved treatment for depression that doesn't involve medication. It uses magnetic pulses to gently stimulate underactive nerve cells in the brain. It's a safe and effective option for those who haven't found relief with antidepressants.

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

Dr. Billingsley leads the treatment team, monitoring physical health, managing co-occurring conditions like anxiety or depression with medication, and collaborating closely with therapists and dietitians to ensure a safe and effective recovery.

1940 Harrison Ave
Panama City FL 32405
Phone: (850) 763-0017

Dr. John Billingsley, 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): 1205885753

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. John Billingsley 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.