John Tierney, MD is a Psychiatrist practicing at a clinic in San Antonio, TX, dedicated to providing comprehensive psychiatric care. He 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. He serves all ages, and is currently welcoming new patients. Please call (210) 692-7775 to schedule an appointment.
Dr. John Tierney, MD is a psychiatrist in San Antonio, TX and has over 35 years of experience in the medical field. With this wealth of clinical knowledge and care, he brings a dedicated approach to his patients, having earned his degree from the University of Texas Health Sciences Center at San Antonio Long School of Medicine in 1988, followed by an internship at the same institution in 1989. He further specialized in Consultation Psychiatry (Neuropsychiatry) at Ochsner Clinic New Orleans, graduating in 1993. Dr. Tierney is Board Certified in Geriatric Psychiatry and Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology. He is committed to collaborative, evidence-based medicine, creating a supportive environment for patients and their families to feel heard and empowered in their healthcare decisions. Dr. John Tierney provides consultations primarily in English.
A strong patient-provider partnership is the foundation of effective healthcare. Dr. Tierney is committed to being a partner in your health journey, focusing on practical strategies to protect your health and well-being.
Dr. Tierney's approach to psychiatric care is deeply patient-centered, emphasizing comprehensive evaluations and tailored treatment plans. He utilizes a collaborative model, working closely with primary care physicians and other specialists to ensure holistic care. His practice incorporates the latest evidence-based therapies, including advanced treatments like TMS and ECT, while prioritizing open communication and a supportive environment to empower patients in managing their mental health conditions.
By working together, you and Dr. Tierney can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
As your primary healthcare provider, Dr. Tierney offers expert diagnosis and management for a wide range of common health conditions. Common areas of focus include:
- Dementia: Dementia is a brain disorder causing problems with memory, thinking, and behavior, and a psychiatrist can help to manage symptoms such as anxiety, depression, and agitation associated with it.
- Depression: Depression is a mood disorder causing persistent sadness and loss of interest, and a psychiatrist can diagnose it and help manage symptoms with medication and therapy.
- Depressive Disorders: Depressive disorders are illnesses causing persistent sadness and loss of interest, and a psychiatrist can diagnose them and create a treatment plan using medication and/or therapy.
- Insomnia: A psychiatrist can help you overcome insomnia by assessing your symptoms, ruling out medical causes, and recommending appropriate treatment like medication or cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I).
- Mood Disorders: Persistent sadness, extreme mood swings, or loss of interest in life could be signs of a mood disorder, which a psychiatrist can help manage with medication and other treatments.
- 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: Panic disorder is a type of anxiety disorder causing sudden, unexpected panic attacks, and a psychiatrist can help manage symptoms with medication and therapy.
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. Tierney offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and treat various health concerns:
- Alcohol or Substance Misuse Screening and Counseling: This involves a discussion about your alcohol or substance use and personalized strategies for managing or overcoming these behaviors.
- Dementia Evaluation: This comprehensive assessment aims to differentiate dementia from other conditions with similar symptoms and develop a personalized care plan.
- Dementia or Depression Screening: A dementia or depression screening helps determine if you have symptoms of either condition through a series of questions and assessments.
- Medication Management: Through medication management, your psychiatrist helps you understand your medications, how they work, and what you can expect, empowering you to actively participate in your care.
- Outpatient Psychiatry: This type of care is for people with mental health disorders who can attend regular appointments outside of a hospital setting.
- Psychiatric Evaluation: A psychiatric evaluation involves a thorough interview and sometimes includes medical tests to rule out physical causes of your symptoms.
- Psychological Evaluation: Expect a thorough interview and potentially some testing during a psychological evaluation to help your psychiatrist get a clear picture of your mental health and wellbeing.
- Psychological Evaluations Prior to Bariatric Surgery: To prepare for bariatric surgery, a psychological evaluation helps identify and address any mental health concerns that might interfere with the process or results.
- Psychopharmacologic Treatment: Medication management is a core part of psychiatric care, aiming to find the right medication and dosage to help you feel better.
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. Tierney 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 personalized treatment plan, the patient successfully managed their dementia symptoms, allowing them to maintain their independence and quality of life. Working with their support system, the patient reported feeling more empowered and hopeful about the future.
- After receiving a clear diagnosis and personalized treatment plan, the patient found a renewed sense of hope and purpose, successfully managing their depression symptoms and improving their overall well-being. Consistent therapy sessions and medication helped them regain control of their life and build a more positive outlook.
These scenarios are illustrative examples of positive health outcomes. Individual results vary and depend on many factors. He will work with you to define and achieve your personal health goals.
- Primary Location:
Practice
1202 E Sonterra Blvd Ste 202, San Antonio, TX, 78258
Phone: (210) 692-7775
View on Map - Practice
508 E San Antonio Ave, Boerne, TX, 78006
Phone: (210) 615-8458
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- Consultation Psychiatry (Neuropsychiatry) Ochsner Clinic New Orleans (Fellowship Hospital) - 1993
- University of Texas Health Sciences Center at San Antonio Long School of Medicine (Internship Hospital) - 1989
- University of Texas Health Sciences Center at San Antonio Long School of Medicine (Medical School) - 1988
- Masters Degree Psychology St. Mary's University San Antonio (Other Education) - 1981
- United States Air Force Academy (Undergraduate School) - 1979
- American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology (Geriatric Psychiatry)
- American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology (Psychiatry)
Here are answers to some common questions about receiving Psychiatric care with Dr. Tierney:
- What is the main difference between a Psychiatrist and a Psychologist?
- Psychiatrists are medical doctors (MD or DO) who can prescribe medication, while psychologists (PhD or PsyD) specialize in psychotherapy and psychological testing. While their approaches differ, 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 with Dr. Tierney.
- Can a psychiatrist help with ADHD in adults?
- Yes, psychiatrists are experts in diagnosing and treating adult ADHD. Dr. Tierney can perform a thorough evaluation to confirm the diagnosis and manage both medication (stimulant and non-stimulant options) and therapeutic strategies to improve focus and daily functioning.
- What should I expect during my first psychiatric evaluation?
- Your first appointment with Dr. Tierney will involve a comprehensive discussion of your symptoms, medical and family history, and current life circumstances. This allows Dr. Tierney to gain a complete picture, enabling an accurate diagnosis and the development of a collaborative treatment plan.
- What is the difference between anxiety and an anxiety disorder?
- Feeling anxious is a normal human response to stress. An anxiety disorder, however, involves excessive and persistent worry that is difficult to control and interferes with daily life. Dr. Tierney can help determine if your symptoms meet the criteria for a disorder and require treatment.
- How long will it take for my medication to start working?
- Most psychiatric medications, especially antidepressants, take several weeks (4-6 weeks) to reach their full effect. Patience and regular follow-up appointments with Dr. Tierney are important to monitor progress and adjust dosage as needed.
- Can you help with addiction or substance use problems?
- Yes, Dr. Tierney is experienced in treating substance use disorders. Psychiatrists are trained to diagnose and manage these issues. She can provide a comprehensive evaluation, manage withdrawal, and prescribe medications like Suboxone® to help with recovery.
- What is ECT and is it safe?
- Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is a safe and highly effective medical procedure used to treat treatment-resistant depression and other severe mental health conditions. Performed under general anesthesia, modern ECT is very different from the outdated portrayals seen in movies and is considered a frontline treatment option for severe cases.
1202 E Sonterra Blvd Ste 202
San Antonio TX 78258
Phone: (210) 692-7775
John Tierney, 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): 1710045000
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. John Tierney 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.