How much experience do you have? 

Dr. Alok Jain, Psychiatrist, and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Breanna Dean, have over 30 years of combined experience in providing psychiatric and addiction treatment.   Over those years, we have learned there is no “one size fits all” approach to providing quality, effective mental health and addiction care, and our clinic is dedicated to discovering what works for you as an individual.

Is it tough to get an appointment? 

If you can’t get in to see your doctor when your moods begin to cycle, or when you are experiencing a crisis, he or she can’t help you much.  We pride ourselves on truly being accessible to our patients during times of need, and in having timely appointment slots available to meet your routine and urgent visit needs.

Can I contact you during a crisis?

Everybody, even doctors and therapists, needs some time off — but as a person struggling with mental illness or addiction, you need to know what to do in a time of crisis if we are not available.

We encourage you to utilize the Missouri local crisis system for critical needs that cannot wait until our business hours.  You can reach them by calling 417.761.5555.  You should also consider the emergency room of a local hospital to assist in times of critical need.

When can I expect to feel better?

Psychiatric illnesses and addictions are like any other medical disorder – it takes time for our bodies and minds to heal.   In most cases, you can expect to see some improvement in one to two weeks, but some medications may take four to six weeks or even longer to become fully effective.  We will continually assess the effectiveness of your medications and monitor for side effects.

How will I know I’m getting better?

Objective signs that your health is improving include:

  • Sleeping more regularly and getting better-quality sleep
  • Doing more with less effort — in other words, better energy
  • Socializing more
  • Crying less
  • Diminished thoughts of death or suicide
  • Sustained stability in thought patterns — not racing or flying from topic to topic
  • Reduction in pressured speech (rapid, nonstop talking)
  • More typical energy and activity levels
  • Fewer and less intense confrontations with others
  • Improved ability to control impulses
  • Improved relationships with family members and loved ones.

Will you work with my other providers?

Coordinated treatment, especially between your psychiatrist and primary care physician, is an essential component of success.  We will ask for your primary care physician’s contact information and obtain signed consent forms that will allow us to share pertinent information.