Dr. Mark Lokitus, DO

Dr. Mark Lokitus, DO is a Psychiatrist dedicated to empowering patients with proactive, comprehensive Psychiatric care at his clinic in Fort Myers, FL. Registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practicing under Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice), he recognizes 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. He serves individuals of all ages, and a commitment to collaborative, evidence-based medicine forms the cornerstone of his approach, creating a supportive environment where patients feel empowered to take an active role in their long-term health.

Dr. Mark Lokitus, DO is a psychiatrist in Fort Myers, FL, with over 35 years of experience in the medical field. He brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to his patients and their families, having earned his medical degree from the University of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth in 1987. His extensive experience includes Addiction & Substance Abuse, and he is affiliated with Cape Coral Hospital. He is committed to preventative care and proactive management, understanding the crucial role of long-term strategies in maintaining mental well-being. To confirm if he is currently accepting new patients, please call (239) 275-7440. Dr. Lokitus provides consultations primarily in English.

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

• Anxiety: Taking steps to manage anxiety, such as lifestyle changes and stress reduction techniques, can prevent it from escalating and disrupting your daily life.
• Nondependent Opioid Abuse: Addressing nondependent opioid abuse early on can help prevent escalation to addiction and other severe health complications, underscoring the crucial role of timely intervention in preventing a downward spiral.
• Tobacco Use Disorder: Preventing tobacco use disorder starts with early identification of risk factors and addressing nicotine addiction before it significantly impacts your health.
• Dependent Personality Disorder: Early detection of dependent personality disorder is crucial, as it allows for timely therapeutic interventions that improve self-esteem and reduce reliance on others for decision-making, promoting long-term mental health.
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): PTSD, if left untreated, can lead to chronic mental health challenges. Early diagnosis and treatment, including therapy and medication, helps prevent these complications and promotes recovery.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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 Marijuana Abuse: Managing nondependent marijuana abuse helps prevent the development of other mental health issues and reduces the risk of serious complications down the road.
• Opioid Dependence: Preventing opioid dependence involves recognizing risk factors and seeking help early, as ongoing use can cause significant physical and mental health issues.

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. Mark Lokitus 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: Protecting your well-being starts with knowing your risks: a simple screening for alcohol or substance misuse can help identify potential problems early and prevent serious complications.
• 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.
• Psychiatric Evaluation: Proactively manage your mental health journey with a psychiatric evaluation; it's a critical tool for early detection and effective management of mental health conditions.
• Psychological Evaluation: Proactively safeguard your mental health with a psychological evaluation – a crucial step in identifying potential problems and implementing strategies to prevent future relapses.
• 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.
• Child Abuse Assessment: A child abuse assessment is a proactive tool that can identify signs of abuse early, allowing for intervention and support to prevent long-term behavioral and mental health problems.
• Preventive Care (Mental health screening): Take charge of your mental well-being with a preventive mental health screening; it helps detect early signs of conditions like anxiety and depression, enabling prompt treatment.

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. Mark Lokitus 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 and addressing anxiety triggers, a patient developed coping mechanisms that helped manage stress and maintain a calm, productive daily life. This proactive approach prevented anxiety from interfering with their personal and professional goals.
• By proactively addressing potential opioid use concerns, a patient gained a clearer understanding of their pain management options and significantly reduced their risk of developing problematic opioid use. This early intervention empowered them to confidently navigate their health journey.
• Recognizing the early warning signs of nicotine addiction, a patient proactively addressed potential tobacco use disorder, significantly reducing their risk and gaining peace of mind about their future health.

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. Mark Lokitus:

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

Dr. Lokitus and his team are psychiatrists, medical doctors 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 do not prescribe medication.

What can I expect during my first psychiatric evaluation with Dr. Mark Lokitus?

Your first visit with Dr. Lokitus 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. Lokitus 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 quality of life.

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

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

Do you treat children and adolescents?

Dr. Lokitus's practice focuses on adult psychiatry.

What is a 'dual diagnosis'?

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

What is TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation)?

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

What is involved in geriatric psychiatry?

Geriatric psychiatry is a specialized field focused 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 extensive experience in safely prescribing medications for seniors, considering their often complex medication regimens.

1342 Colonial Blvd Ste K102
Fort Myers FL 33907
Phone: (239) 275-7440

Dr. Mark Lokitus, 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): 1902886310

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. Mark Lokitus 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.