Dr. Maria Holcomb, DO

Dr. Maria Holcomb, DO is a Psychiatrist practicing at her clinic in Tampa, FL, dedicated to empowering patients with proactive, comprehensive Psychiatric care. 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 is currently welcoming new patients to begin their proactive health journey. Call (813) 313-7535 to schedule.

Dr. Maria Holcomb, DO is a psychiatrist in Tampa, FL with over 40 years of experience in the medical field. She earned her medical degree from Des Moines University College of Osteopathic Medicine in 1984, and completed an internship at Jacksonville General Hospital and Jacksonville Health Ed Prgm in 1985. Following medical school, she undertook residency training in Psychiatry at Jackson Memorial Hospital, graduating in 1989, specializing in the comprehensive medical care of individuals of all ages. With over 40 years of dedicated experience in Psychiatric care, she brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to her patients and their families. Dr. Holcomb is Board Certified in Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology and committed to collaborative, evidence-based medicine, creating a supportive environment where patients feel empowered to take an active role in their long-term health. She offers consultations in Spanish.

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

• Panic Attack: Early intervention for panic attacks, including therapy and sometimes medication, helps reduce the risk of long-term anxiety and its associated complications.
• Depression: Proactive management of depression through therapy and medication, if needed, is key to preventing relapses and maintaining a healthier mental state.
• Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD): Early diagnosis and treatment of Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) can significantly reduce the risk of academic struggles, relationship difficulties, and future mental health challenges.
• Psychosis Due to Mental Illness: Recognizing and addressing the root mental illness causing psychosis is vital for preventing future episodes and promoting sustained mental health.
• Panic Disorder: Preventing the debilitating effects of panic disorder begins with recognizing the symptoms and seeking professional help, as timely intervention can reduce the frequency and intensity of panic attacks.
• Schizophrenia: Early detection and treatment of schizophrenia are crucial for preventing long-term disability and improving quality of life.
• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): Preventing OCD relapse requires consistent treatment and monitoring, ensuring that symptoms are effectively managed and long-term mental health is maintained.
• 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.
• Psychosis: Recognizing the early warning signs of psychosis is crucial, as timely treatment can prevent worsening symptoms and the development of more severe complications.
• Anxiety: Taking steps to manage anxiety, such as lifestyle changes and stress reduction techniques, can prevent it from escalating and disrupting your daily life.
• Bipolar Disorder: Managing bipolar disorder effectively through medication and therapy helps prevent debilitating mood swings and minimizes disruptions to daily life, promoting long-term well-being.
• ADHD and-or ADD: By preventing the escalation of ADHD and/or ADD symptoms, we can safeguard the individual's potential for success and happiness in the future.

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. Maria Holcomb 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: Enhance your mental health care plan by proactively addressing potential substance use concerns; screening and counseling can be a valuable tool for early intervention.
• 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.
• Medication Management: Proactive medication management helps you find the right balance of medication to effectively manage your mental health condition and prevent future episodes.
• Psychiatric Evaluation: A psychiatric evaluation is a vital step towards a healthier you, offering a comprehensive assessment to guide personalized treatment plans and prevent relapses.
• 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: A psychological evaluation before bariatric surgery is a crucial step in optimizing your surgical outcome by addressing any mental health concerns that could hinder your progress.
• Psychological Testing: As part of your ongoing mental wellness, psychological testing can help monitor your progress and identify any potential warning signs of relapse.
• Psychotherapy Services: Invest in your mental health journey by trying psychotherapy; it's a valuable tool for managing symptoms and reducing the risk of relapse.

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. Maria Holcomb 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 triggers and practicing relaxation techniques, a patient reduced the frequency and intensity of panic attacks, regaining a sense of control and peace of mind.
• Recognizing early warning signs and developing a proactive therapy plan, a patient effectively managed their emotional well-being, preventing a potential depressive episode and maintaining a positive outlook on life.
• Recognizing the early signs of Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) allowed a family to proactively develop coping strategies, significantly reducing the potential for academic challenges and fostering a more supportive home environment. This proactive approach gave the family peace of mind and empowered them to focus on building a strong foundation for their child's future.

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. Maria Holcomb:

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

Dr. Holcomb is a medical doctor (MD) specializing in mental health. Unlike psychologists, psychiatrists can 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. Maria Holcomb?

Your first appointment with Dr. Holcomb will involve a comprehensive medical and psychiatric assessment. This will cover your medical history, symptoms, and life circumstances to help 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. Holcomb will discuss all treatment options, including psychotherapy and lifestyle changes, and medication is a collaborative decision, recommended when it is the most effective tool for preventing symptoms from worsening and improving your quality of life.

What is the medical approach to treating addiction?

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

What is a 'dual diagnosis'?

A dual diagnosis means having both a substance use disorder, like alcohol addiction, and another mental health condition, such as depression, at the same time. Dr. Holcomb is trained to treat both conditions simultaneously, recognizing that integrated treatment is essential for successful, long-term recovery.

How does Dr. Maria Holcomb manage medication side effects?

Dr. Holcomb takes a proactive and careful approach to medication side effects. Her goal is to find the medication with the most benefit and fewest side effects for each patient. She starts with low doses, closely monitors patients, and is skilled at adjusting dosages or changing medications to find the best fit.

What is involved in geriatric psychiatry?

Geriatric psychiatry is a specialized field focused on the mental health of older adults, addressing conditions like late-life depression, anxiety, and the behavioral symptoms of dementia. Our expertise includes safe medication management for seniors, often taking multiple medications.

Do you treat children and adolescents?

Dr. Holcomb's practice focuses on adult psychiatry.

6601 Memorial Hwy Ste 108
Tampa FL 33615
Phone: (813) 313-7535

Dr. Maria Holcomb, 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): 1023167608

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. Maria Holcomb 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.