Dr. Virginia Dawson, MD

Dr. Virginia Dawson, MD is a Psychiatrist practicing at Marsh Landing Behavioral Group in Jacksonville Beach, FL. She is a dedicated partner in preventive mental healthcare, registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practicing 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. Dawson serves Individuals of all ages and is currently welcoming new patients to begin their proactive health journey. Please call (904) 543-0161 to schedule.

Dr. Virginia Dawson is a Board-Certified Psychiatrist specializing in treating adults. With over 10 years of dedicated experience in Psychiatric care, she brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to her patients and their families. She earned her medical degree from University Of Louisville School Of Medicine in 2014, completing an internship at Mercer University and residency training at Emory University School Of Medicine, specializing in the comprehensive medical care of Individuals of all ages. Dr. Dawson's approach to treatment is warm and supportive; she believes that life can be complex, and that while careful use of medication can be useful for treating symptoms, there is usually so much more to our story that needs to be explored. With this in mind, her treatment style emphasizes allowing patients time to be heard and discuss their diagnosis and treatment plan. She is Board Certified in Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology and provides consultations primarily in English.

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

• Adult Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): Effective management of ADHD reduces the likelihood of experiencing increased stress, impacting your mental health, and increasing the risk for other comorbid disorders.
• 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.
• Depression: Depression is a mood disorder that can be effectively managed with early intervention, preventing it from becoming a long-term struggle and improving your overall well-being.
• Depressive Disorders: Preventing depressive disorders involves early identification of symptoms and proactive management to avoid long-term health complications and improve overall well-being.
• Mood and Adjustment Disorder: Addressing mood and adjustment disorders through timely diagnosis and treatment helps prevent future mental health complications and improves overall quality of life.
• Alzheimer's Disease With Early-Onset: Participating in research studies on early-onset Alzheimer's helps contribute to advancements in prevention and treatment, improving outcomes for future generations.
• Suicidal Ideation: Preventing suicide requires recognizing and addressing suicidal ideation promptly; seeking professional help is vital for developing a safety plan and managing underlying mental health 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. Virginia Dawson offers a range of key preventive screenings and services designed to provide crucial insights into your health and support your well-being:

• Medication Management: Working with your doctor to manage your medication ensures you're receiving the most effective treatment, reducing the risk of relapse and improving your overall well-being.
• 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.
• Psychopharmacologic Treatment: Using the right medications can significantly reduce the severity and frequency of your symptoms, paving the way to a healthier you.
• Psychotherapy With Medication Management: Take a proactive step towards better mental wellness by integrating psychotherapy with medication management for a holistic approach.
• Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT): As a proactive step in managing treatment-resistant depression, ECT can significantly improve mood and reduce suicidal thoughts, offering a pathway to improved mental well-being.
• Smoking Cessation Treatment: Proactively address the dual diagnosis of mental illness and nicotine addiction; smoking cessation treatment is a key component of effective recovery.
• LGBT Affirmative Psychotherapy: By understanding the specific challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals, LGBT Affirmative Psychotherapy can provide early intervention and prevent the escalation of mental health issues.

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. Virginia Dawson 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 proactively managing their ADHD, a patient felt empowered to reduce stress and focus on building a fulfilling life. This proactive approach minimized the risk of developing other related mental health concerns.
• By attending regular appointments and openly discussing their concerns, a patient proactively managed their anxiety, significantly reducing the likelihood of future episodes and gaining a renewed sense of well-being.
• Recognizing early warning signs and developing a personalized prevention plan, a patient gained valuable tools to manage potential depressive symptoms, fostering a sense of hope and proactive well-being.

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. Virginia Dawson:

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

A psychiatrist is a medical doctor specializing in mental health. They can prescribe and manage medications, in addition to providing therapy. Psychologists, while experts in psychotherapy and testing, are not medical doctors and cannot prescribe medication.

What can I expect during my first psychiatric evaluation with Dr. Virginia Dawson?

Your first visit with Dr. Dawson 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. It's 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. Dawson will discuss all treatment options, including psychotherapy and lifestyle changes. Medication is a collaborative decision, recommended when it is the most effective tool for improving quality of life and preventing symptoms from worsening.

What is Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT)?

Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is a safe, modern medical procedure used for severe mental health conditions, such as treatment-resistant depression. Performed under general anesthesia, it involves a brief, controlled electrical stimulation of the brain. It's a highly effective option when other treatments haven't worked, helping prevent life-threatening symptoms.

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 preventing symptoms in those who haven't found relief with antidepressants.

Can you provide therapy in addition to medication management?

Dr. Dawson offers both medication management and psychotherapy. She utilizes a collaborative approach, working closely with patients' therapists to ensure a comprehensive treatment plan. This ensures a cohesive and integrated approach to care.

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

Psychiatric medications, such as antidepressants or mood stabilizers, help by correcting chemical imbalances in the brain. This creates a stable foundation for therapy and the development of coping skills, reducing the risk of relapse. Consistent medication use is crucial for maintaining this stability and preventing future episodes.

How do you diagnose ADHD in adults?

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

3948 3rd St S
Jacksonville Beach FL 32250
Phone: (904) 543-0161

Dr. Virginia Dawson, 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): 1285045070

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. Virginia Dawson 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.