After struggling for ten years with significant and crippling anxiety, somatic symptom disorder and panic attacks, which profoundly affected my personal and professional life, I was referred to Dr. Hoffman.
Through a City of Hope Patient Advocate, I learned about his work with previous cancer patients and their journeys with the process. His reviews scared and intimidated me, and his prices were exorbitant and OON. After asking my oncologist if he was really that good, and getting a resounding "YES", I made an appointment.
I was desperate and I needed help. After multiple therapists, psychologists,mindfulnesses meditation classes, yoga, TM and the like... I was not in denial, and I knew I was tipping to the point of no return.
After being sanctioned by two doctors who I trusted, I completed my questionnaire and saw Dr. Hoffman. If you're looking for warm and fuzzy, and someone to coddle you... it's likely not him.
He is however one of the most knowledgeable doctors on the subject of mental disorders and every medication option or other modalities of therapy that can be effective.
The DNA test which he had me take (which in 10 years no psychiatrist ever asked for) told me immediately that I had been taking SSRI's for 10 Years at a very high dose... and it indicated why they didn't work. The enzymes I'm my body metabolize these meds poorly, hence they never worked. No doctor had ever gone to this detail, and I was beyond impressed that he wanted to be sure I received the most effective medication.
He also encouraged light therapy and meditation every day (which has been life changing). Between the new meds (Cymbalta and Enlyte -a prescription supplement), I have an entirely new perspective on things and am beginning to get my life back.
He is a clinician and will not nurture you or hand you tissues as you get emotional if that's what you're looking for. But he's brilliant and he gives you various options for treatment and that was a game changer for me. If you're desperate and ready to change your life... I would highly recommend Dr. Hoffman. As mentioned, he is expensive and does not take insurance (I have to bill my own), but in the end... in my opinion, he's worth every cent! read more