Philosophy

A Brief Introduction

Welcome to Veritas Psychiatric. My name is Jeffrey J. Vrielink, M.D. I started Veritas to minister to my patients' deepest needs.

Before I paint my vision of what we have to offer, I would like to review some shortcomings in the current mental health system that I hope to address through my practice.

Major Shortcomings of the Current Mental Health System

Spiritual issues are typically ignored or go unrecognized.
Physical treatments (medications, ECT, TMS, etc.) do not work for spiritual issues.
Many patients have prescribed too many medications and at higher doses, than what's needed.
Many physicians focus on managing symptoms without addressing the root causes.
Taking too many medications increases the risk of drug-drug interactions.
When symptoms are controlled, the dose may be so high that it interferes with one's quality of life or ability to function.

Access to care is difficult between appointments.
Access to care is difficult for those who are housebound, lack transportation or have to travel long distances for an appointment.
Continuity of care is difficult when patients go on vacation or move.
Providers often don't collaborate on patient care.
Frequent medication changes increase the cost of care.
Physicians are often so busy that they have little time to listen and educate the patient.

MIND, BODY, SPIRIT.

Veritas Philosophy of Care

Addressing the whole person: mind, body, and spirit.
Seeking out the root cause of the symptoms (physiological, neurological, psychological, psychiatric, medication or illegal drug-related, or spiritual in nature)--and treating them appropriately, based on Matthew 4:23-24 (KJV).
Bringing Christ into the equation. I am limited, but Christ is unlimited. With Him, we can accomplish so much more than we had previously thought.
Providing my patients with an individualized treatment plan that targets each component specifically.
Referring to specialists when appropriate.
Monitoring and tracking progress in symptom reduction and improvement in the quality of life indicators.
Coordinating care with your primary care physician, therapist, pastor, or specialist to apprise him/her of changes in treatment.

Simplifying and reducing medications to only what is needed while addressing spiritual issues.
Improving access and continuity of care through the telepsychiatry component of my practice.
Patients are seen as individuals who have value and worth. Each one is created in the image of God with a special blend of strengths and weaknesses. Each one has a purpose for which he or she was created. We want to help you fulfill your God-given role in life by optimizing your mental and spiritual well-being. We would like to see you "set free" from any trauma or psychological burdens that have hindered you from achieving all that God has for you.

Why a Distinctively Christian Approach to My Practice?

Despite all my training and experience in medicine, I have come to realize over the years that, as a physician, I am limited.
Medications and other treatment modalities are limited as well.
True healing comes from the Lord Jesus Christ. He is unlimited. I have seen miracles and healings in my patients that are undeniably real.
Jesus can still bring healing to the brokenhearted and He can set the captives free. That is my desire for every one of my patients.
I would be happy to pray with my patients or exhort them with scripture to righteous living, so they can experience God's peace, blessing, and protection on their lives.
Each person is totally unique. God has a plan and purpose for your life. I would feel honored to be able to encourage you in your walk with Christ.

Why Address Spiritual Issues in Clinical Practice?

If unresolved spiritual issues (bitterness, anger, unforgiveness, guilt, shame, lack of faith, sin issues, etc.) are not dealt with, patients will continue to experience unnecessary anguish and emotional pain.
When spiritual issues are addressed, the presenting symptoms might either resolve altogether or their intensity and frequency become markedly reduced and more manageable.
It behooves us to identify the spiritual issues and deal with them upfront as part of your treatment plan.
The benefit of this holistic approach is the potential of taking fewer medications and the resultant cost savings, as well as an improved quality of life.

6410 Alpine Avenue NW, Suite A, Comstock Park, MI 49321