About Mara Rice-Stubbs, M.D.
Prior to medical school, I worked for four years as a critical care nurse in the Medical ICU and Emergency Department at the University of Kentucky Chandler Hospital where I gained a deep understanding of the impact of complex illness and chronic stress on patients and their families. Most importantly, I learned that individuals hold the clues to a path forward, if only they are truly heard. I had the opportunity to both observe and experience the unique stressors of working within various sectors of our healthcare system. This prompted a longstanding dedication to support healthcare workers.
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While completing Medical School at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, I worked with administration as Class President to design and implement initiatives to target the root causes of burnout among medical students and was a trusted confidant for colleagues.
I completed residency at UPMC Western Psychiatric Hospital. During residency, I sought additional training in Metabolomics, Sleep Medicine, Sports Psychiatry and acquired extensive psychotherapy training in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Interpersonal Therapy (IPT) and Motivational Interviewing (MI).
My Philosophy of Care
Many people find themselves uncertain how to move forward. I work collaboratively with individuals to identify what is truly important to them and how to live a life consistent with their values, no matter the external circumstances. I wholeheartedly believe psychiatric care should go beyond the surface with a thoughtful consideration of medical factors that may mimic or influence psychiatric symptoms. I carefully assess for such factors that warrant exploration or intervention.
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I treat individuals, not diagnoses. I believe effective treatment is rooted in collaboration and mutual trust. While I practice evidence-based medicine, I am also transparent about the limitations of what we currently know. Human beings are not algorithms, and no single approach works for everyone which is why I tailor care using individualized strategies. I find tracking objective measures (ex. sleep efficiency in patients with mood disorders) extremely helpful for guiding behavioral and biological treatment. The ultimate goal is to co-create a personalized roadmap to move towards a fulfilling life that aligns with your values.
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