Dr. David Brendel
MD, PhD
- Board Certified Private Practice Psychiatrist
- Harvard Trained
- Author of Healing Psychiatry (MIT Press)
With a very broad range of clinical and academic experience as a psychiatrist for more than two decades, I focus primarily on diagnosing and treating patients with complex cases.
After doing a thorough assessment, I describe in detail a wide range of treatment options that might include medication and psychotherapy. Particular emphasis is placed on sleep hygiene, exercise, nutrition, and healthy management of one’s living situation, education, and career development.
I frequently consult with families and other physicians about challenging cases. Most of my patients are from the Boston area, but I also see patients from around the U.S. and the world who come to receive health care that they can’t access locally. My practice adheres to the highest standards of privacy, confidentiality, and discretion.
Convenient psychiatry appointments are available. Please click BOOK ONLINE above to choose a date and schedule an appointment, or contact me for other availability.
For Patients
Much of my past professional experience and current practice has been devoted to performing evaluations and consultations for patients and their loved ones who are just getting started in the process of finding appropriate mental health care. In some cases, I meet with patients on a short-term basis to establish a diagnosis, suggest an initial treatment plan, and provide referrals to other clinicians. In other cases, I form long-term treatment relationships with patients that focus on managing illness, promoting wellness, and reaching the goal of optimal functioning.
For Families
Families often struggle to convince loved ones that they need to see a doctor for evaluation and treatment of their mental health needs. In many such cases, I consult with family members to discuss the situation in depth and explore options for supporting their loved one in seeking help. Later on I might see the patient too, as long as there is transparency about my initial consultation with the family and if the patient expressly chooses to pursue an evaluation with me.
For Doctors
An important part of my practice involves providing expert consultation to other physicians and mental health professionals on challenging and complex cases. After learning about the case from the patient's clinician and reviewing any relevant medical records, I meet with the patient (and often with his or her loved ones) for at least one or two sessions. This information allows me to form a diagnostic impression and suggest treatment approaches. The patient then works along with the referring clinician to implement my recommendations as they deem appropriate. In many cases, I remain available over the long term for ongoing consultation and assistance with treatment.
If you think you or a family member are suffering from any of the following, please contact me to request a psychiatry appointment or choose a convenient date using online booking via ZocDoc.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Dr. David Brendel accepting new patients?
Yes, Dr. Brendel is currently accepting new patients in the Boston area. You can book a psychiatry appointment online through ZocDoc or call (617) 932-1548.
What psychiatric conditions does Dr. Brendel treat?
Dr. Brendel treats a wide range of conditions including anxiety, depression, ADHD/ADD, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder (BPD), sleep disorders, eating disorders, substance abuse, psychotic disorders, and complex medical/psychiatric conditions.
Does Dr. Brendel specialize in ADHD?
Yes. Dr. Brendel has extensive experience evaluating and treating ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) and ADD in adults. His approach includes thorough psychiatric assessment, medication management, and care coordination with other providers.
Does Dr. Brendel specialize in borderline personality disorder (BPD)?
Yes. Borderline personality disorder (BPD) is one of the complex conditions Dr. Brendel evaluates and treats. He provides comprehensive psychiatric assessment and works with patients and families to develop individualized treatment plans.
Where is Dr. Brendel's office located?
Dr. Brendel’s office is at 26 Trapelo Rd., Belmont, MA 02478, conveniently serving patients throughout Greater Boston including Boston, Cambridge, Malden, Somerville, Newton, and surrounding Massachusetts communities.
What are Dr. Brendel's qualifications?
Dr. David Brendel is a board-certified psychiatrist with an MD and PhD from Harvard University. He has more than two decades of clinical and academic experience and is the author of Healing Psychiatry (MIT Press).
Does Dr. Brendel see patients outside the Boston area?
While most patients are from Greater Boston and Massachusetts, Dr. Brendel also sees patients from across the United States and internationally who travel for specialized psychiatric care they cannot access locally.