Dr. Maria Rueda-Lara, MD

Dr. Maria Rueda-Lara, MD is a Psychiatrist practicing at her clinic in Miami, 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 serves as a crucial partner in preventive mental healthcare. 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. She is committed to providing this essential care to individuals of all ages. Currently, Dr. Rueda-Lara is not accepting new patients, but you can call (305) 243-4129 to inquire about waitlists or future openings.

Dr. Rueda-Lara brings over 25 years of dedicated experience in Psychiatric care, a wealth of clinical knowledge, and compassionate care to her patients and their families. As the Medical Director of Psycho-Oncology at the University of Miami/Sylvester, South Florida's only NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center, she specializes in the co-morbidity and psychiatric manifestations of cancer. She is an Assistant Clinical Professor in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Board Certified in Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry and Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology, and holds a medical degree from the University of Alaska, Anchorage Campus (1995). Her expertise extends to leading training programs for medical students, residents, fellows, and psychology practicum students in psycho-oncology. Dr. Rueda-Lara's care philosophy emphasizes proactive wellness and a collaborative approach with patients, recognizing the importance of addressing mental health concerns early and comprehensively. She offers consultations in Spanish.

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

• Schizophreniform and Schizoaffective Disorder: By recognizing the signs and symptoms of schizophreniform and schizoaffective disorders early, and seeking prompt treatment, individuals can greatly reduce the chances of experiencing debilitating episodes and improve their overall health.
• Conduct and Other Emotional Adolescent Disorders: Proactive management of adolescent conduct and emotional disorders through therapy and, if needed, medication can significantly reduce the chances of relapse and chronic mental illness.
• Conversion Disorder: Conversion disorder, where emotional problems turn into physical symptoms, highlights the importance of preventive mental healthcare; seeking timely support can prevent these physical manifestations from becoming chronic.
• Autism: Preventative strategies, like early developmental screenings, help identify autism early, enabling access to essential support services and reducing long-term difficulties.
• Nondependent Opioid Abuse: Nondependent opioid abuse, while not causing physical withdrawal, can still negatively affect your mental and physical health, highlighting the importance of proactive management and seeking help.
• Schizoaffective Disorder: Schizoaffective disorder combines features of schizophrenia and mood disorders, so proactive monitoring and consistent treatment are crucial to prevent the worsening of symptoms and potential crises.
• Amphetamine or Related Acting Sympathomimetic Abuse: Addressing amphetamine or stimulant abuse early on helps prevent the development of other mental health conditions and reduces the chance of future relapses.
• Borderline Personality Disorder: Early diagnosis and treatment of borderline personality disorder can significantly reduce the risk of self-harm and improve long-term mental well-being.
• 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.
• Suicidal Ideation: Suicidal ideation, or thoughts of harming oneself, is a serious sign that requires immediate attention and professional help to prevent tragic consequences.
• Nondependent Drug and Alcohol Abuse: Addressing non-dependent drug and alcohol use early minimizes the risk of developing dependence and experiencing the associated long-term health complications.
• Panic Disorder: Understanding and managing panic disorder is crucial for preventing the development of more serious mental health complications and improving your overall well-being.

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

• Behavior Therapy: Behavior therapy helps you learn new coping skills to manage challenging emotions and behaviors, preventing future mental health crises.
• Couples Therapy: Strengthening your relationship through couples therapy can be a valuable tool in preventing future mental health crises and promoting overall wellness.
• Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT): For those struggling with debilitating mental health conditions, ECT offers a chance to regain control over their lives by effectively targeting severe symptoms and enabling a return to daily function.
• Family Psychotherapy: Family psychotherapy offers a proactive approach to early diagnosis and treatment, addressing family dynamics that may influence the development or worsening of mental health conditions.
• 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: 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.
• 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.
• Psychotherapy for Crisis: Prioritize your well-being and seek crisis psychotherapy to address immediate mental health challenges and learn coping strategies to prevent future crises.

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 Rueda-Lara 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 early warning signs and developing a proactive support network, a young adult significantly reduced the potential for experiencing a schizophreniform or schizoaffective disorder episode, promoting a stable and fulfilling future.
• A family found relief from the challenges of adolescent conduct and emotional disorders by working with a mental health professional to develop a proactive treatment plan, significantly reducing the risk of future issues. Early intervention and a personalized approach empowered the family to navigate these developmental stages with greater confidence.
• By proactively addressing underlying emotional distress, a patient successfully mitigated the risk of developing physical symptoms associated with conversion disorder, fostering a greater sense of well-being and emotional resilience.

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 Rueda-Lara:

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

Dr. Rueda-Lara is a medical doctor specializing in mental health, meaning she can prescribe and manage medications, in addition to providing therapy. Psychologists, on the other hand, are experts in psychotherapy and testing but are not medical doctors and cannot prescribe medication.

What can I expect during my first psychiatric evaluation with Dr. Maria Rueda-Lara?

Your first visit with Dr. Rueda-Lara will be a comprehensive assessment of your medical and psychiatric history. We will discuss your symptoms, life circumstances, and medical history to arrive at an accurate diagnosis. This forms the foundation for developing a personalized 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. Rueda-Lara 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's most effective in preventing symptoms from worsening and improving your quality of life.

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 stable foundation for therapy and coping skills. Consistent treatment is key to preventing future episodes of depression or bipolar disorder.

Can you help with sleep problems like insomnia?

Yes, Dr. Rueda-Lara is an expert in sleep-wake disorders. She will first rule out any underlying medical or psychiatric causes and then recommend treatments, including behavioral therapies and, when appropriate, safe and effective sleep medications.

What is involved in geriatric psychiatry?

Geriatric psychiatry is a specialized field focusing on the mental health of older adults. It involves diagnosing and managing conditions like late-life depression, anxiety, and the behavioral symptoms of dementia. Our team has expertise in safely prescribing medications for seniors, considering their often complex medication profiles.

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. It's a safe and effective option for those who haven't found relief with antidepressants.

Can you provide therapy in addition to medication management?

Dr. Rueda-Lara offers both medication management and psychotherapy. She utilizes a collaborative approach, working closely with patients' therapists to ensure a comprehensive treatment plan. This integrated approach aims to address both the medical and psychological aspects of mental health.

1121 NW 14th St
Miami FL 33136
Phone: (305) 243-4129

Dr. Maria Rueda-Lara, 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): 1558546531

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 Rueda-Lara 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.