The New Standard in Mental Health
(602) 730-6422
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Life-changing telepsychiatry
services for depression.

Break free from depression with an evidence-based
treatment plan tailored to you.

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Depression Treatment Tailored to You.

Break free from depression with evidence-based telepsychiatry services.

Get Started Now
- Call Us (602) 730-6422 -

OUR APPROACH

How we can help you conquer depression

Our approach to anxiety care for patients begins with empathy and a deep understanding of how your condition impacts your quality of life. This allows us to come up with a treatment plan that revolves around your unique needs, medical history and the latest data out there. Here’s a breakdown:

    60-Minute Psychiatric Assessment

Your journey to mental wellness starts with a 60-minute assessment, where one of our experts will take a deep dive into your specific challenges with depression to create a care plan tailored just for you. Your journey is as unique as you are, and we’re here to help you achieve your goals.

Schedule Your Assessment Today

    Evidence-Based Treatment for Anxiety

Our psychiatrists stay up to date with the latest research and treatments in mental health. Whether it’s therapy, medication, or a combination of both, we only recommend solutions backed by science to give you the best chance at success.

Discover the Latest in Anxiety Treatment

OUR APPROACH

Break Free From Anxiety

60 Minute Psychiatric Assessments

Your journey to mental wellness starts with a 60-minute assessment, where one of our experts will take a deep dive into your specific challenges with depression to create a care plan tailored just for you. Your journey is as unique as you are, and we’re here to help you achieve your goals.

Evidence-Based Treatment

Our psychiatrists stay up to date with the latest research and treatments in mental health. Whether it’s therapy, medication, or a combination of both, we only recommend solutions backed by science to give you the best chance at success.

See Our Pricing

PATIENT REVIEWS

Real Patients, Real Stories

"When I started to have anxiety issues and my doctor couldn't help, I began searching for somebody who could. In calling around, I couldn't get in with anyone for several weeks. I then called Platinum Psychiatry and spoke with Mel. She was kind and compassionate and went out of her way to help me book an appointment for the very next morning. Platinum Psychiatry was very helpful and I would recommend them."

- Jeff

"My initial visit with Dr. Shorten went very well. I was comfortable with discussing my problems and with his responses. I felt "equal." He seemed understanding of my choices and thoughts, which means a great deal to me. I'm looking forward to my next visit! I've been seeing psychiatrists for nearly ten years, and it is rare for me to look forward to seeing a new one. Decent prices without insurance."

- Madison

"Very professional, compassionate, and genuinely concerned about you as a patient and not your pocket case. I came to Dr Shorten feeling like a wreck but he listened, listened, and listened again. He has both me and my teenage son on track to feeling more like our usual selves."

- Christina

I searched for a Dr. for my boyfriend to meet with for weeks knowing that my boyfriend was reluctant to go. I was most concerned that the experience might not go well and my boyfriend wouldn’t give it another shot. Boy am I glad we went here. Dr. Shorten was AMAZING and not only made us feel comfortable but nailed it across the board with listening and helping my boyfriend to understand what’s going on. Do yourself the favor and schedule. You will not be disappointed.

- Michelle

"A brilliant, patient-focused psychiatric practice. As another reviewer had mentioned, their customer service is impeccable. The doctor himself is VERY skilled in bedside manner, and hearing the patient out. He answers your questions thoroughly, and you feel as though he cares about how well you're doing. He has helped me to achieve better results than any practitioner I'd encountered before him. Truly a Platinum-level practice!"

- Cooper

"I have been a patient for several months. Easy to get refills, is one of the few doctors who actually listened to what my goals were, and what medication I wanted to stay away from. Highly recommend. He is open to both Western and Eastern medicine and is very thoughtful and understanding. Genuinely cares about his patients."

- Alexis

"After having the worst summer of my life and feeling afraid it would never get better, I finally gave in and saw Dr. Shorten. He listened and offered solutions, giving me precise information on what to expect and when to expect it. I started to feel better immediately and now here I am a few months later feeling like my old self again and once again being able to be the mom, wife, and employee I want to be. I couldn't have done it without his advice and support. The hardest part is often reaching out for help, I know this firsthand. I encourage others to consider reaching out to care about themselves enough to do so with Dr. Shorten. You deserve to feel better and he has the knowledge to help you get there.. he certainly did for me."

- Rachel

"Dr Shorten is compassionate, listens to you, and helps figure out what would work best for his patient. The office staff is professional and friendly and is prompt in getting you in to see the doctor."

- Tiffany

"I've been seeing Dr. Shorten for 4 months. He is very professional and listens intently to How the medication is affecting me. I would recommend him to anyone."

- Scott

"A great team of professionals that are responsive via call/text/zoom. I have anxiety so being able to message instead of calling helps tremendously. I also don't have insurance, their rates are very reasonable."

- Mario

"They are extremely professional and nonjudgmental. He made me feel truly comfortable during our first visit and is willing to work with me to find what will work. I’m looking forward to working with platinum psychiatry!"

- Andrea

"Dr Shorten is great, one of the best doctors i've have ever seen, very calm, very knowledgeable I'm very happy overall with his professionalism."

- Leo

"I highly recommend Dr. Shorten. He has been so much help with my teenage son during some really tough anxiety issues."

- Emma

"Thank you Dr. Shorten for going above and beyond our expectations. You are truly a blessing and we are so thankful to have found you."

- Victoria

"In completing my initial appointment with Dr Shorten I feel confident that I will receive the care I was hoping to find. Ample time was spent discussing medical history and medications. I look forward to having this connection and can say that I will utilize Dr Shorten for counseling as well as pharmaceutical-related issues in the future if the need arises."

- Lisa

"Dr Shorten is a terrific practice. Very professional, caring, and a good listener."

- Tony

"Dr. Shorten is experienced, knowledgeable, and genuinely cares. He explains complex issues to me in a way that makes understanding easy. He also creates an environment where I truly am a partner in the decision-making and direction of my treatment. I highly recommend Dr. Shorten."

- Colleen

PATIENT REVIEWS

Real Patients, Real Stories

"When I started to have anxiety issues and my doctor couldn't help, I began searching for somebody who could. In calling around, I couldn't get in with anyone for several weeks. I then called Platinum Psychiatry and spoke with Mel. She was kind and compassionate and went out of her way to help me book an appointment for the very next morning. Platinum Psychiatry was very helpful and I would recommend them."

- Jeff

"My initial visit with Dr. Shorten went very well. I was comfortable with discussing my problems and with his responses. I felt "equal." He seemed understanding of my choices and thoughts, which means a great deal to me. I'm looking forward to my next visit! I've been seeing psychiatrists for nearly ten years, and it is rare for me to look forward to seeing a new one. Decent prices without insurance."

- Madison

"Very professional, compassionate, and genuinely concerned about you as a patient and not your pocket case. I came to Dr Shorten feeling like a wreck but he listened, listened, and listened again. He has both me and my teenage son on track to feeling more like our usual selves."

- Christina

I searched for a Dr. for my boyfriend to meet with for weeks knowing that my boyfriend was reluctant to go. I was most concerned that the experience might not go well and my boyfriend wouldn’t give it another shot. Boy am I glad we went here. Dr. Shorten was AMAZING and not only made us feel comfortable but nailed it across the board with listening and helping my boyfriend to understand what’s going on. Do yourself the favor and schedule. You will not be disappointed.

- Michelle

"A brilliant, patient-focused psychiatric practice. As another reviewer had mentioned, their customer service is impeccable. The doctor himself is VERY skilled in bedside manner, and hearing the patient out. He answers your questions thoroughly, and you feel as though he cares about how well you're doing. He has helped me to achieve better results than any practitioner I'd encountered before him. Truly a Platinum-level practice!"

- Cooper

"I have been a patient for several months. Easy to get refills, is one of the few doctors who actually listened to what my goals were, and what medication I wanted to stay away from. Highly recommend. He is open to both Western and Eastern medicine and is very thoughtful and understanding. Genuinely cares about his patients."

- Alexis

"After having the worst summer of my life and feeling afraid it would never get better, I finally gave in and saw Dr. Shorten. He listened and offered solutions, giving me precise information on what to expect and when to expect it. I started to feel better immediately and now here I am a few months later feeling like my old self again and once again being able to be the mom, wife, and employee I want to be. I couldn't have done it without his advice and support. The hardest part is often reaching out for help, I know this firsthand. I encourage others to consider reaching out to care about themselves enough to do so with Dr. Shorten. You deserve to feel better and he has the knowledge to help you get there.. he certainly did for me."

- Rachel

"Dr Shorten is compassionate, listens to you, and helps figure out what would work best for his patient. The office staff is professional and friendly and is prompt in getting you in to see the doctor."

- Tiffany

"I've been seeing Dr. Shorten for 4 months. He is very professional and listens intently to How the medication is affecting me. I would recommend him to anyone."

- Scott

"A great team of professionals that are responsive via call/text/zoom. I have anxiety so being able to message instead of calling helps tremendously. I also don't have insurance, their rates are very reasonable."

- Mario

"They are extremely professional and nonjudgmental. He made me feel truly comfortable during our first visit and is willing to work with me to find what will work. I’m looking forward to working with platinum psychiatry!"

- Andrea

"Dr Shorten is great, one of the best doctors i've have ever seen, very calm, very knowledgeable I'm very happy overall with his professionalism."

- Leo

"I highly recommend Dr. Shorten. He has been so much help with my teenage son during some really tough anxiety issues."

- Emma

"Thank you Dr. Shorten for going above and beyond our expectations. You are truly a blessing and we are so thankful to have found you."

- Victoria

"In completing my initial appointment with Dr Shorten I feel confident that I will receive the care I was hoping to find. Ample time was spent discussing medical history and medications. I look forward to having this connection and can say that I will utilize Dr Shorten for counseling as well as pharmaceutical-related issues in the future if the need arises."

- Lisa

"Dr Shorten is a terrific practice. Very professional, caring, and a good listener."

- Tony

"Dr. Shorten is experienced, knowledgeable, and genuinely cares. He explains complex issues to me in a way that makes understanding easy. He also creates an environment where I truly am a partner in the decision-making and direction of my treatment. I highly recommend Dr. Shorten."

- Colleen

Learn More About Depression

What is depression?

Depression is a complex psychological condition characterized by pervasive low mood, lack of motivation, and a deep sense of despair. It transcends ordinary sadness or the blues and becomes an issue that may significantly impair a person’s life.

While everyone experiences fluctuations in mood, clinical depression is persistent and can be profoundly debilitating. In the U.S., it affects millions, with estimates suggesting that over 16 million adults have experienced a major depressive episode in a year.

Getting diagnosed by a mental health professional, such as a clinical psychologist or psychiatrist, is vital for anyone suspecting they’re experiencing depressive episodes.

Thankfully, depression is manageable. A combination of therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes can be employed to treat it effectively, helping individuals reclaim their lives and well-being.

Depression vs. sadness

Sadness is a natural human emotion that everyone feels at times. It is usually triggered by specific events and resolves on its own. However, depression is deeper, longer-lasting, and not necessarily tied to a specific situation.

Ready to find relief from anxiety?

GET STARTED NOW

Learn about the conditions we treat:

Depression

ADHD

Bipolar Disorder

OCD

PTSD

Types of depression

Depression manifests in various forms, each with unique characteristics and impacts:

Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)

This form involves severe depressive episodes that last for 2 weeks or more and disrupt daily functions like working, sleeping, and eating.

Persistent Depression Disorder
Also known as dysthymia, it’s characterized by a chronic depressed mood that lasts for at least two years.
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)

A type of depression that occurs at the same season each year, commonly in winter.

Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD)
This occurs when symptoms persist despite the use of standard antidepressant therapies, often requiring more complex treatment strategies.

Common Symptoms of Depression

Pervasive sadness or hoplessness

Loss of interest or pleasure in most activities

Significant weight loss or gain

Insomnia or excessive sleeping

Legthargy or agitation

Feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt

Trouble making decisions or focusing

Recurrent thoughts of death or suicide

How do you treat depression?

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Medication Management

We specialize in the judicious use of antidepressant medications to address the symptoms of depression. Our experienced psychiatrists work closely with each patient to find the most effective medication, considering factors such as individual health profiles and potential side effects, to improve mood, energy levels, and overall quality of life.

Image Left of H3
Icon

Supportive Services

We specialize in the judicious use of antidepressant medications to address the symptoms of depression. Our experienced psychiatrists work closely with each patient to find the most effective medication, considering factors such as individual health profiles and potential side effects, to improve mood, energy levels, and overall quality of life.

Image Left of H3
Icon

Lifestyle Guidance

Lifestyle adjustments play a crucial role in managing depression. At Platinum Psychiatry, we provide guidance on incorporating physical activity, balanced nutrition, and adequate sleep into daily routines. Stress management techniques and mindfulness practices are also encouraged to complement medical treatment and enhance overall well-being.

Image Left of H3
Icon

Educational Resources

Educating patients and their families about depression is a vital component of our treatment approach. We offer resources that explain the symptoms, causes, and treatments of depression, empowering patients with the knowledge to better understand their condition and the recovery process.

Common medications for depression

Caring for your mental health is essential for your overall well-being, and navigating mental health medications requires careful consideration. At Platinum Psychiatry, our first step is to offer you a detailed evaluation with our qualified psychiatrists to understand your unique situation. Through this comprehensive assessment, we aim to accurately diagnose and understand your needs.

Once a diagnosis is made, we collaborate with you to choose the most suitable medication, tailored to your individual requirements. It’s important to remember that medication is just one aspect of a holistic treatment approach. Therapy and lifestyle changes are also vital components of your journey to recovery and improved well-being.

We closely monitor the effectiveness of your medication and any side effects, making adjustments as necessary to ensure optimal results. You’re not alone on this journey; seeking support from our team at Platinum Psychiatry is a positive step toward achieving greater health and happiness.

SSRIs

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) work by increasing levels of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that influences mood regulation. SSRIs are considered a first-line treatment due to their effectiveness and generally favorable side effect profile. They are typically started at a low dose that your doctor gradually increases.

Examples of SSRIs used to treat anxiety include:

Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs)

SNRIs function like SSRIs but also affect norepinephrine in addition to serotonin. Examples of SNRI medications are:

Atypical Antidepressants

Atypical antidepressants stand apart because they don’t belong to the usual categories of antidepressants. Similar to other antidepressants, their goal is to influence brain chemistry and the way nerve cells in the brain communicate, especially in areas that control mood. This action helps alleviate symptoms of depression. Some examples of these medications include:

Learn More About Depression

What is depression?

Depression is a complex psychological condition characterized by pervasive low mood, lack of motivation, and a deep sense of despair. It transcends ordinary sadness or the blues and becomes an issue that may significantly impair a person’s life.

While everyone experiences fluctuations in mood, clinical depression is persistent and can be profoundly debilitating. In the U.S., it affects millions, with estimates suggesting that over 16 million adults have experienced a major depressive episode in a year.

Getting diagnosed by a mental health professional, such as a clinical psychologist or psychiatrist, is vital for anyone suspecting they’re experiencing depressive episodes.

Thankfully, depression is manageable. A combination of therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes can be employed to treat it effectively, helping individuals reclaim their lives and well-being.

Depression vs. sadness

Sadness is a natural human emotion that everyone feels at times. It is usually triggered by specific events and resolves on its own. However, depression is deeper, longer-lasting, and not necessarily tied to a specific situation.

Ready to find relief from depression?

GET STARTED NOW

Learn about the conditions we treat:

Anxiety

ADHD

Bipolar Disorder

OCD

PTSD

Want help understanding your symptoms?

Talking to a psychiatrist is the best way. Not ready? Answer these 10 easy questions first.

ANSWER QUESTIONS

Types of depression

Depression manifests in various forms, each with unique characteristics and impacts:

Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)

This form involves severe depressive episodes that last for 2 weeks or more and disrupt daily functions like working, sleeping, and eating.

Persistent Depression Disorder
Also known as dysthymia, it’s characterized by a chronic depressed mood that lasts for at least two years.
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)

A type of depression that occurs at the same season each year, commonly in winter.

Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD)
This occurs when symptoms persist despite the use of standard antidepressant therapies, often requiring more complex treatment strategies.

Common Symptoms of Depression

Pervasive sadness or hoplessness

Loss of interest or pleasure in most activities

Significant weight loss or gain

Insomnia or excessive sleeping

Legthargy or agitation

Feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt

Trouble making decisions or focusing

Recurrent thoughts of death or suicide

How do you treat depression?

Medication Management

We specialize in the judicious use of antidepressant medications to address the symptoms of depression. Our experienced psychiatrists work closely with each patient to find the most effective medication, considering factors such as individual health profiles and potential side effects, to improve mood, energy levels, and overall quality of life.

 

Supportive Services

Understanding the multifaceted nature of depression, we also emphasize the importance of accessing supportive services. This may include referral to counseling or psychotherapy for those who might benefit from it, even though our primary focus is on medication management. We also guide patients towards local or online support groups, where shared experiences can provide additional layers of understanding and support.

Lifestyle Guidance

Lifestyle adjustments play a crucial role in managing depression. At Platinum Psychiatry, we provide guidance on incorporating physical activity, balanced nutrition, and adequate sleep into daily routines. Stress management techniques and mindfulness practices are also encouraged to complement medical treatment and enhance overall well-being.

Educational Resources

Educating patients and their families about depression is a vital component of our treatment approach. We offer resources that explain the symptoms, causes, and treatments of depression, empowering patients with the knowledge to better understand their condition and the recovery process.

Common medications for depression

Caring for your mental health is essential for your overall well-being, and navigating mental health medications requires careful consideration. At Platinum Psychiatry, our first step is to offer you a detailed evaluation with our qualified psychiatrists to understand your unique situation. Through this comprehensive assessment, we aim to accurately diagnose and understand your needs.

Once a diagnosis is made, we collaborate with you to choose the most suitable medication, tailored to your individual requirements. It’s important to remember that medication is just one aspect of a holistic treatment approach. Therapy and lifestyle changes are also vital components of your journey to recovery and improved well-being.

We closely monitor the effectiveness of your medication and any side effects, making adjustments as necessary to ensure optimal results. You’re not alone on this journey; seeking support from our team at Platinum Psychiatry is a positive step toward achieving greater health and happiness.

SSRIs

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) work by increasing levels of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that influences mood regulation. SSRIs are considered a first-line treatment due to their effectiveness and generally favorable side effect profile. They are typically started at a low dose that your doctor gradually increases.

Examples of SSRIs used to treat anxiety include:

Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs)

SNRIs function like SSRIs but also affect norepinephrine in addition to serotonin. Examples of SNRI medications are:

Atypical Antidepressants

Atypical antidepressants stand apart because they don’t belong to the usual categories of antidepressants. Similar to other antidepressants, their goal is to influence brain chemistry and the way nerve cells in the brain communicate, especially in areas that control mood. This action helps alleviate symptoms of depression. Some examples of these medications include:

Get More Help

Free Anxiety Quiz

Take a fast and simple 10-question depression screen to find out if the symptoms you’re experiencing may be related to anxiety. 

Take the Free Anxiety Quiz

Talk to One of Our Experts

Confused about your symptoms or unsure whether or not our services are right for you? Speak with one of our experts and get the answers you need.

Get in Touch With us Today

Mental Health Articles & Resources

Explore educational articles designed to provide valuable insights into challenges you or a loved one may be facing, along with practical solutions to help you find relief.

Explore Our Mental Health Blog

More Help & Resources

Free Depression Screen

Take a fast and simple nine-question depression screen to find out if the symptoms you’re experiencing may be clinical depression. 

Take the Free Depression Screen
Talk to One of Our Experts

Confused about your symptoms or unsure whether or not our services are right for you? Speak with one of our experts and get the answers you need.

Get in Touch With us Today
Mental Health Articles

Explore educational articles designed to provide valuable insights into challenges you or a loved one may be facing, along with practical solutions to help you find relief.

Read Our Mental Health Blog