On the Mind with The Weill Cornell Medicine Department of Psychiatry

In this episode, host Dr. Daniel Knoepflmacher speaks with Dr. Katharine Phillips about body dysmorphic disorder (BDD). Dr. Phillips provides a comprehensive overview of BDD, describing how major distortions in self-perception lead to significant impairment and suffering. She explains why this diagnosis is often missed or misunderstood, explores its wide-ranging impact, and identifies effective, evidence-backed treatments designed to help those struggling with BDD. Katharine Phillips, M.D., is internationally known for her expertise in body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) and related disorders. For over 30 years, Dr. Phillips has conducted ground-breaking scientific research on BDD and has provided expert evaluation and treatment with medication and therapy for people with these conditions. She is currently Professor of Psychiatry, DeWitt Wallace Senior Scholar, and Residency Research Director for the Department of Psychiatry at Weill Cornell Medicine and Attending Psychiatrist at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital.

In this episode, we explore a unique model for serving the mental health needs of LGBTQ+ individuals. The Weill Cornell Wellness Qlinic is a student-run mental health clinic providing free mental healthcare to the LGBTQ+ community in New York City. It serves as a model for education, affirming mental health care, and outreach to an underserved population. Join Dr. Daniel Knoepflmacher as he discusses the Qlinic, its clinical programs and educational initiatives with two of the Wellness Qlinic co-founders Dr. Jessica Spellun and Constance Zhou, and the Qlinic’s Director of Research, Dr. Christopher Ceccolini. Featured Speakers: Christopher Ceccolini, Ph.D. (he/him) is an Assistant Professor of Psychology in Clinical Psychiatry at Weill Cornell Medicine, an attending psychologist at NewYork-Presbyterian and Weill Cornell Medicine affiliated hospital, Gracie Square Hospital, and a psychologist in private practice in Manhattan. He is one of the current faculty advisors and the Director of Research for the Weill Cornell Wellness Qlinic. Jessica Spellun, M.D. (she/her) is a Clinical Assistant Professor of Psychiatry at Weill Cornell Medicine and a psychiatrist in private practice. As a resident she helped to build the Weill Cornell Wellness Qlinic and later served as one of the faculty directors. Constance Zhou (they/them) is an MD-PhD student at Weill Cornell Medicine interested in psychiatry. They are also the co-founder of the Weill Cornell Wellness Qlinic and served as the Clinical Executive Director of the Qlinic from 2019-2024.

In this episode, host Dr. Daniel Knoepflmacher speaks with the Dr. Dennis Popeo, the Director of Neuromodulation at NewYork-Presbyterian/ Weill Cornell Medical Center, about electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). Dr. Popeo gives an overview of ECT and explains the basic mechanisms that make the treatment so effective. We discuss the history of ECT treatments and how years of research and care have developed this into a safe, life changing treatment for patients with mental illnesses such as treatment resistant depression, schizophrenia, and more.

In this episode, Dr. Daniel Knoepflmacher explores the complexities of women's mental health during hormonal transitions with Lauren Osborne, M.D. and Alison Hermann, M.D. The conversation focuses on mental health throughout the various stages of life and hormonal changes. Discover the underlying factors influencing women's mental well-being during these transformative stages, alongside ongoing research and emerging training opportunities for clinicians to specialize in women's psychiatry. Gain insights into evidence-based treatments and strategies tailored to support women through these hormonal changes, providing valuable perspectives for practitioners and individuals navigating these transitions.

To further our understanding of youth mental health, Dr. Daniel Knoepflmacher is joined by Dr. Francis Lee, who describes his groundbreaking research on the neurobiology of adolescent development. They discuss the processes underlying adolescent brain development, exploring why this critical period presents increased risk for anxiety disorders and depression, but also presents unique opportunities for effective treatments. Learn how impactful factors during critical periods of brain development effect resilience and psychological wellbeing, including social media use, early life adversity and more.

In this episode Dr. Daniel Knoepflmacher is joined by Dr. Jonathan Avery to discuss alcohol use disorder and how stigma impacts our response to this condition. Learn how to identify problematic alcohol use in yourself or someone close to you and what to discuss with your doctor when looking for support. We reflect on how alcohol use disorders have no “one size fits all” solution. Effective treatments rely on a variety of methods that can be tailored to suit the individual needs of each patient. Jonathan Avery, M.D. is the Vice Chair for Addiction Psychiatry, the Stephen P. Tobin and Dr. Arnold M. Cooper Associate Professor in Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry, and the Program Director for the Addiction Psychiatry Fellowship. Dr. Avery’s primary academic focus has been to examine and help develop interventions to improve clinicians’ attitudes towards patients with substance use disorders. He is also focused on educating all physicians on how to treat individuals with co-occurring substance use disorders and mental illness.

In this episode, Dr. Daniel Knoepflmacher is joined by Dr. Conor Liston to describe recent neuroscientific breakthroughs that are transforming how we diagnose and treat common psychiatric conditions, like depression. Learn how research advances in brain imaging and neuromodulation investigated at Weill Cornell Medicine are leading to novel approaches for providing targeted and effective mental healthcare. Conor Liston, M.D, Ph.D., is a Professor of Psychiatry and of Neuroscience at Weill Cornell Medicine. Dr. Liston’s research aims to define mechanisms by which prefrontal cortical brain circuits support learning, memory and motivation, and to understand how these functions are disrupted in depression and other stress-related psychiatric disorders.

In part two of this two-part discussion on trauma, host, Dr. Daniel Knoepflmacher, speaks with Dr. Jessica Hartman about treatments that can build resilience after a traumatic event or experience. We explore various options for treatment, including different forms of psychotherapy, medications, and new interventions that are showing significant promise for the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Dr. Hartman also highlights steps outside of formal treatment that can be taken by individuals or their loved ones who want to help alleviate the effects of trauma. She also names several online resources for learning more information about trauma including : The National Child Traumatic Stress Network https://www.nctsn.org/ Learn more about SAMHSA US Dept of Veteran’s Affairs (VA) Featured Speaker: Jessica Hartman, Ph.D., is an Assistant Professor of Psychology in Clinical Psychiatry at Weill Cornell Medicine and an Assistant Attending Psychologist at the NewYork-Presbyterian Westchester Behavioral Health. As an assistant attending, Dr. Hartman works within the adolescent inpatient unit and the child outpatient department. Her clinical expertise is in trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and child and adolescent psychology. Learn more about Jessica Hartman, Ph.D

In part one of this two-part discussion, host, Dr. Daniel Knoepflmacher, speaks with Dr. Jessica Hartman about trauma. During this first episode, we define trauma, describe the range of long-lasting psychological effects that can emerge after a traumatic event, identify the importance of adverse child experiences, and explore trauma informed care. Our discussion covers the difference between individual trauma, collective trauma, and intergenerational trauma. Dr. Hartman describes the widespread impact of trauma on individuals and communities, identifying it as a social justice issue and describing societal changes that could help reduce its prevalence. Resources on Trauma: The National Child Traumatic Stress Network --- SAMHSA --- US Dept of Veteran’s Affairs (VA) Featured Speaker: Jessica Hartman, Ph.D., is an Assistant Professor of Psychology in Clinical Psychiatry at Weill Cornell Medicine and an Assistant Attending Psychologist at the NewYork-Presbyterian Westchester Behavioral Health. As an assistant attending, Dr. Hartman works within the adolescent inpatient unit and the child outpatient department. Her clinical expertise is in trauma, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and child and adolescent psychology. https://weillcornell.org/jessica-hartman-phd

n this episode, Daniel Knoepflmacher, M.D., speaks with Jo Anne Sirey, Ph.D., about depression in older adults. Listen for a discussion that identifies key aspects of late life depression and highlights available resources for treatment in New York. While describing treatment methods, Dr. Sirey explains the importance of community-based approaches featuring personalized elements that help address the diverse needs of a multicultural, urban population. She also describes the important challenges and opportunities that technology creates in the delivery of psychiatric care for older adults in the community. For more information on available resources, such as Do More Feel Better and Trio for Successful Aging, visit the Sirey Lab website at https://sireylab.weill.cornell.edu/ Featured Speaker: Jo Anne Sirey, Ph.D. is a Professor of Psychology in Psychiatry at Weill Cornell Medicine. She has an expertise in developing partnerships and conducting mental health interventions in community-based settings. Her research focus is on the development, implementation and impact of interventions that address psychological barriers and stigma to improve treatment engagement, treatment participation and adherence. Learn more about Jo Anne Sirey, Ph.D.

In this special edition episode, Dr. Daniel Knoepflmacher is joined by Dr. George Makari to discuss his recent essay “What Covid Revealed About American Psychiatry.” In their wide-ranging discussion, Dr. Makari describes the longstanding fractures in our psychiatric healthcare system that were exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Using history as context, he outlines the complex and dysfunctional system of mental health care in America; shedding light on the core problems and what needs to change to address them.

In this episode, we speak with Angela Wai Mon Chiu Ph.D. about youth anxiety. Join Dr. Knoepflmacher for an interview exploring the causes of anxiety within children and adolescents and evidence-based treatments and tactics that can be used to treat mild to severe anxiety. For more information on tactics and assessments discussed in the episode, visit: the NewYork-Presbyterian Center for Youth Mental Health or read Tools for Supporting Wellbeing in Children. Featured Speaker: Angela Wai Mon Chiu, Ph.D., is an assistant professor of psychology in clinical psychiatry at Weill Cornell Medicine. As a licensed clinical psychologist, she specializes in cognitive behavioral therapy as well as modular approaches to treatment for a wide array of presenting problems including social phobia, separation anxiety disorder, panic disorder, OCD, specific phobias, trauma, generalized anxiety disorder, depression, and oppositional defiant disorder. In addition to her clinical work, she has received several notable awards, including the National Research Service Award from the National Institute of Mental Health and a Dissertation Research Award from the American Psychological Association.

In this episode, we speak with Justin A. Chen, M.D., M.P.H. about disparities in mental healthcare. Join us in a discussion that defines “health justice” and explores how our society views mental health and psychiatric care. Learn the causes behind limited access to mental health support and what patients, providers and the public can do to start to turn this around. Featured Speaker: Justin A. Chen, M.D., M.P.H. is an assistant professor of clinical psychiatry, Vice Chair for Ambulatory Services, and Vice Chair for Health Justice at Weill Cornell Medicine Psychiatry. In these roles, Dr. Chen is responsible for overseeing and advancing behavioral health outpatient services to ensure the delivery of innovative high quality, patient-centered care that is accessible to the diverse populations of New York City and Westchester County.

In episode two of this two-part discussion, we speak with Frank E. Yeomans, M.D., Ph.D. and Paula Tusiani-Eng, L.M.S.W., about borderline personality disorder (BPD). Continuing the last episode’s conversation, our panelists explain treatment methods for those with BPD while highlighting how providers and patients can utilize two key resources—the NewYork-Presbyterian Borderline Personality Disorder Resource Center and Emotions Matter. Explore the links below for more information on these resources. Borderline Personality Disorder Resource Center Welcome to Emotions Matter! Guests: Paula Tusiani-Eng, L.M.S.W. is the Co-Founder and Executive Director of Emotions Matter Inc., a non-profit organization dedicated to educating, supporting and advocating for those impacted by borderline personality disorder (BPD). Ms. Tusiani-Eng is also co-author with her mother, Bea Tusiani, of Remnants of a Life on Paper: A Mother and Daughter's Struggle with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)—a book dedicated to her late sister, Pamela Tusiani, who suffered from BPD. Along with her family, Ms. Tusiani-Eng has provided support relating to BPD to Weill Cornell Medicine and NewYork-Presbyterian. Frank E. Yeomans, M.D., Ph.D. is a clinical associate professor of psychiatry at Weill Cornell Medicine and director of training at the Personality Disorders Institute of Weill-Cornell. In addition to his voluntary faculty practice at Weill Cornell Medicine, Dr. Yeomans is the director of the Personality Studies Institute. Along with publishing several articles and books, his primary interests include the development, investigation, teaching, and practice of psychotherapy for personality disorders.

In this two-part discussion, we speak with Frank E. Yeomans, M.D., Ph.D. and Paula Tusiani-Eng, L.M.S.W., about borderline personality disorder (BPD). Our panelists begin episode one by defining and demystifying the disorder with the hopes of dismantling some of the stigma surrounding BPD through education. Ms. Tusiani-Eng describes her personal and professional experiences with BPD, while providing context of some of the symptoms and impacts of the disorder. The discussion continues with Dr. Yeomans providing context on how a patient may be diagnosed along with barrier to diagnosis. Borderline Personality Disorder Resource Center Welcome to Emotions Matter! Guests: Paula Tusiani-Eng, L.M.S.W. is the Co-Founder and Executive Director of Emotions Matter Inc., a non-profit organization dedicated to educating, supporting and advocating for those impacted by borderline personality disorder (BPD). Ms. Tusiani-Eng is also co-author with her mother, Bea Tusiani, of Remnants of a Life on Paper: A Mother and Daughter's Struggle with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)—a book dedicated to her late sister, Pamela Tusiani, who suffered from BPD. Along with her family, Ms. Tusiani-Eng has provided support relating to BPD to Weill Cornell Medicine and NewYork-Presbyterian. Frank E. Yeomans, M.D., Ph.D. is a clinical associate professor of psychiatry at Weill Cornell Medicine and director of training at the Personality Disorders Institute of Weill Cornell. In addition to his voluntary faculty practice at Weill Cornell Medicine, Dr. Yeomans is the director of the Personality Studies Institute. Along with publishing several articles and books, his primary interests include the development, investigation, teaching, and practice of psychotherapy for personality disorders. Learn more about Frank Yeomans, M.D., Ph.D

In this episode, we speak with Amy Lemelman, Ph.D. about Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Dr. Lemelman begins by providing a basic understanding of autism spectrum disorder before guiding families and patients on how to take their first steps toward diagnosis and treatment. In understanding the patient journey, we discuss the disparities in care for families and patients of different cultural, racial and socio-economic backgrounds. Dr. Lemelman also explores the positive and negative effects of our media and culture on diagnosis and stigma associated with autism spectrum disorder. Learn more about the NewYork-Presbyterian Center for Autism and the Developing Brain Featured Speaker: Amy Lemelman, Ph.D. is an assistant professor of psychology in clinical psychiatry at Weill Cornell Medicine and a psychologist at the NewYork-Presbyterian Center for Autism and the Developing Brain. Dr. Lemelman specializes in research and clinical care for children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder.

In this episode, we speak with Stephanie Cherestal, Ph.D. about the impact of cultural diversity on mental health and health care. Reflecting on the diversity of patient experiences connecting with mental health providers, Dr. Cherestal shares examples of how intersectionality and racial trauma impact psychotherapeutic treatments. Along with these examples, Dr. Cherestal provides vital steps for patients and providers to take when considering culturally responsive mental health care. Featured Speaker: Stephanie Cherestal, Ph.D. is an assistant professor of psychology in clinical psychiatry and co-director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in the Weill Cornell Medicine Department of Psychiatry. Dr. Cherestal is also an assistant attending and director of the Adult and Adolescent Dialectal Behavioral Therapy (DBT) Program in the Outpatient Department at NewYork-Presbyterian Westchester Behavioral Health. Learn more about Stephanie Cherestal, Ph.D.

In our first episode, we speak with Richard A. Friedman, M.D. about the latest news exploring the intersection of psychedelics and psychiatry. Dr. Friedman highlights the effects psychedelic drugs have on the brain’s neuroplasticity, misconceptions about mind altering drugs, and the surprising findings of research on the drugs’ mental health benefits and risks. Please note that the use of psychedelics is not FDA approved and is only to be used by in medical research settings under strict safety protocols. Read Dr. Friedman’s article referenced in this episode Featured Speaker: Richard A. Friedman, M.D. is a professor of clinical psychiatry and director of the Psychopharmacology Clinic at Weill Cornell Medicine. His clinical and research focus is on anxiety, mood disorders, psychopharmacology, and refractory depression. Learn more about Dr. Friedman