For today’s clinician spotlight, we’re focusing on Brian Coringrato, DO. Brian began working with Rivia Mind as a psychiatrist last August. He takes a holistic approach to treatment of adult — including young adult — patients experiencing a variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, and ADHD.
We’re proud to work with Brian and to offer his services to the communities we serve. We recently sat down to talk to Brian about the journey his career has taken from education to joining us at Rivia Mind.
Education
Brian Coringrato received his BA in English, minoring in chemistry and behavioral neuroscience, from Saint Joseph’s University in Philadelphia, PA. He then went on to medical school at Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine before completing his psychiatry residency at SUNY Upstate Medical University in Syracuse, NY.
“Knowing I wanted to work in the healthcare field, I explored a variety of specialties,” Brian says. “While I was in medical school, I particularly enjoyed my rotations in psychiatry, both in the hospital and outpatient. I feel in this specialty I am able to bring together my interest in the humanities and literature with my interest in medicine.” He says that he has always been passionate about mental health due to the impact he has seen it have on friends and family members.
Settling Into Outpatient Psychiatry
Eventually, Brian decided to focus on outpatient psychiatry. “I found myself gravitating towards outpatient work due to the ability to form ongoing treatment relationships with patients. I find this very rewarding. I particularly enjoy working with undergrad and graduate students.”
He describes his approach to treatment as an attempt to be flexible while also following the standard of care. Treatment begins with a psychiatric evaluation to clarify diagnosis. From there, he discusses various treatment options with his patients, including psychotherapy or beginning medication.
“I like to get to know my patients and make sure they have some say in their treatment plan and goals. I value building a strong doctor/patient relationship and I work to be an added support and resource in their lives.”
Since Joining Rivia Mind
“It has been a great practice to work with,” Brian says of working with Rivia Mind. “I have a high degree of respect for my coworkers. I enjoy most the feeling of camaraderie at Rivia Mind. All of the employees do a really good job of supporting one another and working together to all be as successful as possible.”
And that camaraderie that Brian enjoys at Rivia Mind doesn’t stop when he finishes work for the day. He notes that he also receives support from his coworkers outside of work settings. “Rivia Mind has social gatherings in which we can all get to know each other better and offer each other support in challenging times. Everyone has been so welcoming here. I very much appreciate that.”
Advice To Someone Beginning Therapy
Brian acknowledges that it can be scary to begin therapy, especially for the first time. Opening up to a stranger and allowing yourself to be vulnerable are no easy tasks. “I would recommend giving it a chance and openly speaking about any concerns you have during the appointment,” he suggests. “It’s our job to create a safe place and to help foster a good treatment environment. I would also recommend giving it a few sessions to see if it’s a good fit and to see how it progresses as everyone becomes more comfortable in the therapeutic relationship.”
To that end, it’s also important to find the right provider. “I would recommend finding a provider who is a good fit for them and who is open to good communication,” Brian says. “It is very helpful when the patient vocalizes what they hope to achieve from treatment and that way we can formulate a plan together. Your provider should be able to help meet your treatment goals, while also making sure it is a safe and effective treatment option.”
Unwinding At Home
Everyone needs to unwind at the end of the day and practice self-care. For Brian, it’s a combination of healthy habits and time with friends — including man’s best friend. “I unwind by playing with and walking my dog,” he says. “I also enjoy exercising and being active. Having a strong social support network is also very important to me and spending time with friends and family is really helpful for my own mental health. Also I try to eat healthy and get good sleep, however those can be challenging at times!”
We’re happy to count Brian among our many skilled and compassionate clinicians. When you need mental health support, Rivia Mind has you covered. Contact us today to learn more or to schedule a free 15-minute consultation.
