Ashley Toutounchi, MD is a Psychiatrist dedicated to providing comprehensive psychiatric care at Aura MD in Houston, TX. She is a registered provider with the Texas Medical Board, practicing under the Texas Occupations Code, Title 3, Subtitle B (Medical Practice Act). Psychiatrists are medical doctors specializing in diagnosing and treating mental health disorders, managing psychiatric medications, and performing advanced treatments like TMS and ECT, often working collaboratively with primary care physicians to provide comprehensive patient care. Dr. Toutounchi serves all ages, and is currently welcoming new patients. Please call (346) 515-5287 to schedule an appointment.
Dr. Toutounchi brings over 10 years of dedicated experience and a wealth of clinical knowledge to her patients. She received her medical degree and completed her residency (chief resident) from the University of Texas Medical Branch at Houston, graduating with honors. She is Board Certified in Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology, and has earned numerous awards recognizing her exceptional patient care and professionalism. Dr. Toutounchi's practice, Aura MD, and Restored Psychiatry, are committed to a patient-centric approach, offering personalized services in-office or remotely, to address a range of mental health issues, including Adult ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, and related conditions. Her team and she offer the highest quality care, reflecting a commitment to excellence in her field. Dr. Toutounchi provides consultations primarily in English.
A strong patient-provider partnership is the foundation of effective healthcare. Dr. Toutounchi is committed to being a partner in your health journey, focusing on practical strategies to protect your health and well-being.
Dr. Toutounchi provides comprehensive psychiatric care, focusing on building strong relationships with her patients. She utilizes a collaborative approach, integrating evidence-based treatments with personalized strategies to address the unique needs of each individual. Her expertise encompasses the full spectrum of psychiatric care, from medication management to advanced therapies like TMS and ECT, ensuring patients receive the most effective and holistic treatment possible.
By working together, you and Dr. Toutounchi can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Also Accepts These Carriers
- Blue Advantage HMO
- Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas
- Cigna
- Cigna HMO
- Cigna PPO
- LocalPlus
- Open Access Plus
- SureFit Houston
As your primary healthcare provider, Dr. Toutounchi offers expert diagnosis and management for a wide range of common health conditions. Common areas of focus include:
- ADHD and-or ADD: ADHD and ADD are neurodevelopmental disorders affecting attention and focus, and a psychiatrist can diagnose them and help manage symptoms with medication and therapy.
- Adult Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD): Adult Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) is a brain condition that makes it hard to focus, pay attention, and control impulses, and a psychiatrist can help manage symptoms with medication and therapy.
- Adult Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): Adult ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder impacting focus and self-control; psychiatrists diagnose it and manage treatment, typically with medication and sometimes behavioral therapy.
- Depressive Disorders: Feeling down, hopeless, or losing interest in things you used to enjoy could indicate a depressive disorder, which a psychiatrist can help manage with medication and other treatments.
- Insomnia: If you're struggling with insomnia, a psychiatrist can evaluate if it's related to a mental health condition and provide medication or therapy to improve your sleep.
- Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): Psychiatrists specialize in helping people with OCD, a condition causing unwanted thoughts and actions, using medication, therapy, and other advanced treatments tailored to individual needs.
- Panic Disorder: A psychiatrist is the right doctor to see if you're struggling with panic attacksthey can help determine if you have panic disorder and create a treatment plan.
- Sleep Disorders: Psychiatrists can help manage sleep disorders by identifying and treating any co-occurring mental health conditions like anxiety or depression that might be disrupting your sleep.
This list represents some of the common conditions treated. An accurate diagnosis and a personalized care plan can only be developed through a direct consultation with a qualified medical professional.
To provide comprehensive and patient-centered care, Dr. Toutounchi offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and treat various health concerns:
- ADHD Testing: This involves evaluations to assess symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity to diagnose ADHD.
- Medication Management: Your psychiatrist will help you manage your medication, adjusting dosages and types as needed to optimize your treatment and minimize side effects.
- Outpatient Psychiatry: If you need help with a mental health issue and don't need to stay in the hospital, outpatient psychiatry offers appointments for assessment and ongoing care.
- Psychiatric Evaluation: A psychiatric evaluation is a comprehensive assessment by a psychiatrist to determine if you have a mental health condition.
- Psychiatric Medication Therapy: This therapy involves working with a psychiatrist to find the right medication and dosage to improve your mental well-being and reduce distressing symptoms.
- Psychopharmacologic Treatment: This involves a psychiatrist prescribing and monitoring psychiatric medications to improve your symptoms and overall well-being.
- Stress Management: Through therapy and sometimes medication, a psychiatrist can help you develop personalized stress reduction strategies.
Service availability can change. To understand which services are appropriate for your specific health needs, please schedule a consultation to develop a personalized care plan.
All medical services are provided in accordance with the standard scope of practice for their professional license in Texas.
Dr. Toutounchi is dedicated to partnering with patients to achieve their unique health objectives. The following examples illustrate how proactive care can make a tangible difference in a patient's life:
- After receiving a clear diagnosis and treatment plan, a patient found strategies to manage their ADHD symptoms, significantly improving their focus and productivity at work and home.
- After receiving a clear diagnosis and treatment plan, a patient with Adult Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) found strategies to improve focus and manage daily tasks more effectively. Their improved concentration led to increased productivity and a greater sense of control over their life.
These scenarios are illustrative examples of positive health outcomes. Individual results vary and depend on many factors. She will work with you to define and achieve your personal health goals.
- Primary Location:
Aura MD
952 Echo Ln Ste 210, Houston, TX, 77024
Phone: (346) 515-5287
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- University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (Residency Hospital) - 2014
- University Of Texas Houston Health Science Center (Internship Hospital) - 2011
- University Of Texas Health Science Center Houston (Medical School) - 2010
- University of Texas Health Sciences Center at Houston McGovern Medical School (Medical School) - 2010
- University of north texas (Undergraduate School) - 2006
- American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology (Psychiatry)
Here are answers to some common questions about receiving Psychiatric care with Dr. Toutounchi:
- What is the main difference between a Psychiatrist and a Psychologist?
- Psychiatrists are medical doctors (MDs or DOs) who can prescribe medication, while psychologists (with PhDs or PsyDs) specialize in psychotherapy and psychological testing. They often collaborate to provide comprehensive care.
- Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist?
- While a referral from your primary care doctor can be helpful, many insurance plans do not require one. It's best to check with your specific insurance plan to confirm coverage details and any referral requirements before scheduling an appointment.
- What is ECT and is it safe?
- Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is a safe and highly effective medical procedure, performed under general anesthesia, for treating treatment-resistant depression and other severe mental health conditions. Modern ECT is very different from how it's portrayed in movies and is considered a frontline treatment for severe cases.
- What should I expect during my first psychiatric evaluation?
- Your first appointment with Dr. Toutounchi will involve a comprehensive discussion of your symptoms, medical history, family history, and current life circumstances. This detailed conversation helps Dr. Toutounchi understand your situation fully and develop an accurate diagnosis. It's a collaborative process, and the first step toward creating a personalized treatment plan.
- Will I have to be on medication forever?
- The duration of medication is highly individualized and depends on your specific condition and progress. Some conditions may require short-term treatment, while others may benefit from long-term maintenance. We will discuss this with you regularly to determine the best course of action for your needs.
- What is TMS therapy and who is it for?
- TMS is a non-invasive treatment that uses magnetic pulses to stimulate underactive nerve cells in the brain, often helpful for depression. It's an FDA-approved, medication-free option, typically for adults with major depression who haven't responded to antidepressant medications.
- Do all psychiatrists only prescribe medication? Do you also provide therapy?
- While a psychiatrist's primary expertise is medication management, many, including Dr. Toutounchi, also incorporate psychotherapy into their sessions or offer therapy-only appointments. The treatment plan is personalized and may involve medication, therapy, or a combination of both, depending on the individual needs of the patient.
- How long will it take for my medication to start working?
- Most psychiatric medications, especially antidepressants, take several weeks (4-6 weeks, on average) to reach their full effectiveness. It's important to be patient and attend regular follow-up appointments with Dr. Toutounchi to monitor progress and adjust medication as needed.
Aura MD
952 Echo Ln Ste 210
Houston TX 77024
Phone: (346) 515-5287
Ashley Toutounchi, MD is regulated by the Texas Occupations Code, Title 3, Subtitle B (Medical Practice Act) in Texas and is licensed by The Texas Medical Board.
National Provider Identifier (NPI): 1043572423
Registration can typically be verified through The Texas Medical Board website or by direct inquiry.
The information on this profile, provided by kellysearch.com, is for informational purposes to help you connect with local healthcare providers. It does not constitute direct medical advice from the provider named. Healthcare providers like Dr. Ashley Toutounchi are trained to manage a wide range of health concerns. For urgent or life-threatening emergencies, please call 911 or visit the nearest emergency department. Always consult with a qualified medical professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your care plan.