Dr. Kent Mathias, MD

Dr. Kent Mathias, MD is a Psychiatrist dedicated to empowering patients with proactive, comprehensive Psychiatric care at his Gainesville, FL clinic. He is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practices 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 patients should call (352) 265-4357 to confirm if he is currently accepting new patients.

Dr. Kent Mathias, MD is a psychiatrist in Gainesville, FL, affiliated with UF Health Shands Hospital. He is Board Certified in Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology, and his approach to care prioritizes a collaborative, evidence-based model, fostering a supportive environment where patients feel empowered to take an active role in their long-term health. His commitment to proactive mental health care extends beyond diagnosis and treatment, encompassing the prevention of relapse and the promotion of holistic well-being. Dr. Kent Mathias provides consultations primarily in English.

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

• Major Depressive Disorder: Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is a serious condition that can be effectively managed with early detection and treatment, significantly reducing the risk of long-term complications and preventing relapse.
• 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.
• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): Managing OCD effectively through therapy and medication helps prevent debilitating obsessions and compulsions, improving overall quality of life and reducing the risk of long-term complications.
• 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.
• Mood Disorders (Dysthymia and Cyclothymia): Catching dysthymia and cyclothymia early is key to preventing long-term mental health challenges and improving overall well-being through consistent management and treatment.
• ADHD and-or ADD: Early diagnosis and management of ADHD and/or ADD are crucial for preventing academic, social, and occupational difficulties later in life.
• Dementia: Protecting your brain health involves recognizing the early signs of dementia, which may include memory loss and confusion; early diagnosis is key to managing the condition and slowing progression.
• Panic Disorder: Regular check-ups with your doctor and a proactive approach to managing stress can significantly help prevent panic disorder from worsening or leading to other mental health issues.
• Schizoaffective Disorder: Because schizoaffective disorder can lead to significant challenges in daily functioning, early intervention and ongoing care are vital for preventing complications and promoting recovery.
• Amphetamine and Other Psychostimulant Dependence: Addressing amphetamine and other psychostimulant dependence early on can significantly improve the chances of successful treatment and a healthier future.
• Opioid Dependence: Preventing opioid dependence involves recognizing risk factors and seeking help early, as ongoing use can cause significant physical and mental health issues.
• Anxiety: Preventative care for anxiety involves regular check-ups and open communication with your doctor to monitor your symptoms and adjust treatment as needed, ultimately reducing the chance of relapse.

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

• Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT): ECT is a powerful treatment option for individuals experiencing severe mental health crises, offering rapid symptom relief when other methods haven't provided adequate results.
• 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.
• Sexual Counseling: Taking a proactive step towards better mental health, sexual counseling helps identify and treat sexual dysfunction often linked to mental illness.
• Military Counseling: Proactive participation in military counseling can improve coping mechanisms, reduce stress, and prevent future mental health crises.
• Educational Therapy: Educational therapy is a preventative step that helps you develop self-management skills, fostering mental well-being and reducing the likelihood of future struggles.
• Outpatient Psychiatry: By scheduling regular outpatient psychiatric visits, you can actively participate in your treatment plan, ensuring your mental health remains stable and preventing relapses.
• Pediatric Trauma Management: Pediatric trauma management is a key component of early intervention, providing support and resources to help children process traumatic experiences and avoid developing mental health issues later in 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. Kent Mathias 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 proactively addressing potential warning signs and developing a personalized prevention plan, a patient significantly reduced their risk of developing Major Depressive Disorder, fostering a sense of calm and control over their mental well-being.
• By openly discussing potential stressors and developing coping mechanisms, a patient successfully managed occasional substance use, preventing the development of a more serious substance use disorder. This proactive approach ensured a healthier lifestyle and greater well-being.
• Through consistent therapy and medication, a patient effectively managed their OCD, significantly reducing the frequency and intensity of intrusive thoughts and behaviors, leading to a greater sense of calm and control over their life.

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. Kent Mathias:

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

Dr. Mathias is a medical doctor (MD) specializing in mental health. Unlike psychologists, psychiatrists are uniquely trained to prescribe and manage medications, in addition to providing therapy. Psychologists are experts in psychotherapy and testing but do not prescribe medication.

What can I expect during my first psychiatric evaluation with Dr. Kent Mathias?

Your first visit with Dr. Mathias 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?

Dr. Kent Mathias will discuss all treatment options, including psychotherapy and lifestyle changes. Medication is a collaborative decision, recommended when it is the most effective tool for preventing symptoms from worsening and improving quality of life.

How do you diagnose ADHD in adults?

Dr. Mathias's comprehensive evaluation process for adult ADHD goes beyond a simple checklist. It involves a detailed interview about lifelong symptoms, a review of school and work history, and the use of standardized rating scales. This thorough approach ensures an accurate diagnosis, which is crucial for developing an effective treatment plan to prevent potential life impairments.

Do you treat children and adolescents?

Dr. Mathias' practice focuses on adult psychiatry.

How does Dr. Kent Mathias manage medication side effects?

Dr. Mathias takes a proactive approach to managing medication side effects. His goal is to find the medication offering the most benefit with the fewest side effects. He will start with low doses, closely monitor your response, and is skilled at adjusting dosages or changing medications to find the best fit for you.

Can you provide therapy in addition to medication management?

Dr. Mathias offers both medication management and psychotherapy. His approach is collaborative, working closely with patients' therapists to create a comprehensive treatment plan. He emphasizes a holistic approach to mental health, recognizing the importance of both medication and therapy.

What is TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation)?

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

4037 NW 86th Ter Fl 3
Gainesville FL 32606
Phone: (352) 265-4357

Dr. Kent Mathias, 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): 1659728236

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. Kent Mathias 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.