Dr. Louis Solomon, MD

Dr. Louis Solomon, MD is a Psychiatrist dedicated to empowering patients with proactive, comprehensive Psychiatric care at UF Health Psychiatric Hospital in Gainesville, FL. 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. Dr. Solomon serves Individuals of all ages and is currently welcoming new patients to begin their proactive health journey. Call (352) 265-5481 to schedule.

With over 40 years of dedicated experience in Psychiatric care, Dr. Solomon brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to his patients and their families. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland School of Medicine in 1980 and completed residency training in Psychiatry at the University of Maryland Medical System and the University of Utah Medical Center. He is Board Certified in Addiction Medicine by the American Board of Preventive Medicine, and Board Certified in Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology. As a clinical assistant professor in the University of Florida College of Medicine Department of Psychiatry, Dr. Solomon is ideally suited to lead brain stimulation efforts and utilizes electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), and deep brain stimulation (DBS) effectively. He believes in the power of these treatments to transform lives and is actively involved in community service at the Helping Hands free clinic. Dr. Solomon provides consultations primarily in English.

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

• Chronic Depression (Dysthymia): Early identification and treatment of chronic depression are vital to reduce its long-term effects on your physical and mental health, preventing potential complications like anxiety or substance abuse.
• Amphetamine or Related Acting Sympathomimetic Abuse: If you're struggling with amphetamine abuse, seeking professional help can prevent serious health issues and improve your 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.
• Nondependent Alcohol Abuse: Even if you don't think you have a drinking problem, excessive alcohol use can negatively impact your mental and physical health; recognizing and addressing nondependent alcohol abuse early can prevent long-term health issues.
• Opioid Dependence: Managing opioid dependence effectively through medication and therapy prevents relapses and improves overall health and well-being in the long run.
• Nondependent Hallucinogen Abuse: Preventing long-term mental health complications starts with recognizing and addressing even occasional hallucinogen use, as it can be a warning sign of underlying issues or a precursor to more severe substance misuse.
• Tobacco Use Disorder: Early intervention for tobacco use disorder can help prevent relapse and long-term health problems associated with smoking and nicotine addiction.
• Anxiety: Early detection and management of anxiety is crucial for preventing it from developing into more serious mental health issues and impacting your overall well-being.
• Binge Eating Disorder: By managing binge eating disorder through therapy and potentially medication, individuals can prevent relapses and significantly improve their quality of life, fostering healthier eating habits and self-image.
• Borderline Personality Disorder: Proactive strategies such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) can prevent relapses and improve the quality of life for individuals with borderline personality disorder.
• Depersonalization Disorder: Experiencing persistent feelings of unreality or detachment? Seeking help early for depersonalization disorder can significantly reduce the risk of developing other mental health challenges.
• Mood Disorders (Dysthymia and Cyclothymia): Persistent low mood (dysthymia) or fluctuating moods between highs and lows (cyclothymia) can significantly impact your life, but early detection and treatment can prevent these from worsening into more severe conditions.

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. Louis Solomon 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.
• Behavior Therapy: Taking a proactive step with behavior therapy can help you develop healthier ways of responding to stress and difficult situations, preventing escalation into mental health episodes.
• Dementia or Depression Screening: Protect your mental well-being by participating in a screening designed to identify depression and dementia, enabling timely intervention.
• Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT): If medication and therapy haven't helped you manage severe mental health symptoms, consider ECT as a safe and effective intervention to alleviate suffering and promote long-term stability.
• Group Psychotherapy: Proactively address mental health concerns and enhance your well-being by joining a group therapy setting where you can connect with others and build resilience.
• Psychiatric Evaluation: Protect your mental health by scheduling a psychiatric evaluation; it helps screen for various conditions and allows for timely intervention.
• Psychiatric Medication Therapy: Psychiatric medication therapy helps you find the right medication to manage your mental health condition and prevent future episodes.
• 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: Taking a proactive step towards a healthier you, a psychological evaluation before bariatric surgery helps screen for potential mental health issues that may impact your surgery and recovery.
• 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.

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. Louis Solomon 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 symptoms and establishing a personalized treatment plan, a patient significantly reduced their risk of developing chronic depression, leading to greater overall well-being and peace of mind.
• By proactively addressing potential triggers and developing coping mechanisms, a patient significantly reduced their risk of amphetamine abuse relapse and regained control of their life. This proactive approach fostered a sense of hope and empowerment in managing their health journey.
• By understanding the risks and proactively addressing potential issues, a patient significantly reduced the likelihood of developing hallucinogen dependence, ensuring a healthier future. This proactive approach fostered peace of mind and empowered them to make informed choices about their well-being.

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. Louis Solomon:

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

Dr. Solomon is a medical doctor (MD) specializing in mental health. Unlike psychologists, psychiatrists can prescribe and manage medications, in addition to providing therapy. Psychologists, on the other hand, are experts in psychotherapy and testing, but cannot prescribe medication.

What can I expect during my first psychiatric evaluation with Dr. Louis Solomon?

Your first visit with Dr. Solomon will involve a comprehensive medical and psychiatric assessment. This will cover your medical history, current 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. Solomon will discuss all treatment options, including psychotherapy and lifestyle changes. Medication is a collaborative decision, recommended when it's the most effective way to prevent symptoms from worsening and improve your quality of life.

What is TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation)?

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

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

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

Do you offer telepsychiatry (virtual) appointments?

Yes, Dr. Solomon offers telepsychiatry appointments. This convenient format allows for expert psychiatric care and medication management from the comfort and privacy of your home via secure video. It enhances accessibility and ensures you receive the same high-quality care as in-person visits.

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

Psychiatric medications, like antidepressants or mood stabilizers, work to correct chemical imbalances in the brain, creating a foundation of stability. This allows you to fully engage in therapy and use your coping skills effectively, which is key to preventing future episodes. Consistent treatment is crucial.

How are panic attacks treated with medication?

Dr. Solomon's practice uses a two-pronged approach. Daily preventive medications, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), help reduce the frequency and intensity of panic attacks. Fast-acting anti-anxiety medications may also be prescribed for use during acute episodes.

UF Health Psychiatric Hospital
4101 NW 89th Blvd
Gainesville FL 32606
Phone: (352) 265-5481

Dr. Louis Solomon, 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): 1689649964

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. Louis Solomon 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.