Norma Clarke, MD is a Psychiatrist practicing at her clinic in Houston, TX, dedicated to providing comprehensive Psychiatric care to all ages. She is registered with The Texas Medical Board and practices 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. Clarke is committed to a collaborative, evidence-based approach, creating a supportive environment where patients and their families feel heard and empowered in their healthcare decisions.
With over 40 years of dedicated experience in the medical field, Dr. Clarke brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and care to her patients. She earned her degree from University Of The West Indies Faculty Of Medicine (Cave Hill) in 1981 and is Board Certified in Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology. She is affiliated with HCA Houston Healthcare Conroe and is currently accepting new patients. Dr. Clarke provides consultations primarily in English and can be reached at (713) 527-8822 to schedule an appointment.
A strong patient-provider partnership is the foundation of effective healthcare. Dr. Clarke is committed to being a partner in your health journey, focusing on practical strategies to protect your health and well-being.
Dr. Clarke's approach to comprehensive psychiatric care emphasizes a collaborative and patient-centered model. She utilizes a thorough diagnostic process, integrating medical history and psychological assessments to develop individualized treatment plans. This includes careful medication management and, when appropriate, advanced therapies like TMS and ECT. Dr. Clarke actively involves patients and their families in the decision-making process, fostering open communication and shared understanding to achieve optimal outcomes.
By working together, you and Dr. Clarke can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
As your primary healthcare provider, Dr. Clarke offers expert diagnosis and management for a wide range of common health conditions. Common areas of focus include:
- ADHD and-or ADD: Psychiatrists specialize in treating ADHD and ADD, offering medication management, therapy options, and other support to improve focus and behavior.
- Adjustment Disorder: When a major life change leads to overwhelming feelings like sadness, anxiety, or difficulty functioning, it might be adjustment disorder, treatable with therapy and potentially medication from a psychiatrist.
- Bipolar Disorder: Characterized by intense emotional highs and lows, bipolar disorder is treated by psychiatrists who prescribe mood stabilizers and other medications to balance brain chemistry.
- Borderline Personality Disorder: Difficulty regulating emotions and a pattern of unstable relationships are hallmarks of borderline personality disorder, and a psychiatrist's care includes medication, therapy, and monitoring.
- Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): A psychiatrist can diagnose and treat OCD, a disorder marked by persistent, upsetting thoughts and rituals, using medication, therapy, or a combination of both to help manage symptoms.
- Personality Disorders: If you struggle with long-standing patterns of behavior that negatively impact your life, a psychiatrist can help identify if you have a personality disorder and develop a treatment plan.
- Affective Disorders, Psychotic: Psychotic symptoms, such as hearing voices or having strange beliefs, can occur alongside mood disorders like depression or bipolar disorder; a psychiatrist can help manage both the mood and psychotic aspects of these conditions.
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. Clarke offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and treat various health concerns:
- Alcohol or Substance Misuse Screening and Counseling: If you're concerned about your drinking or drug use, this screening and counseling can help you find ways to reduce or stop.
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) helps you identify and change negative thinking patterns and behaviors that contribute to mental health challenges.
- Dementia or Depression Screening: A screening for dementia and depression helps your doctor understand your mental state and whether further testing or treatment is necessary.
- Family Psychotherapy: Family psychotherapy helps families understand and improve communication and relationships to support better mental health for everyone.
- Group Psychotherapy: This type of therapy uses the power of group interaction to help manage symptoms of mental health conditions and improve overall well-being.
- Psychiatric Evaluation: During a psychiatric evaluation, your doctor will talk with you about your symptoms, medical history, and lifestyle to reach a diagnosis.
- Psychiatric Medication Therapy: Psychiatric medication therapy uses prescription drugs to help manage symptoms of mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, and schizophrenia.
- Psychological Evaluation: This assessment helps your psychiatrist determine the nature and severity of your mental health concerns, guiding the choice of appropriate treatment such as medication or therapy.
- 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.
- Psychotherapy and Psychophysiological Therapy (incl. Biofeedback): This combined therapy addresses both the mental and physical aspects of mental health concerns, promoting relaxation and better self-regulation.
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. Clarke 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, a patient successfully managed their ADHD symptoms, improving focus and academic performance. They felt empowered and more in control of their daily life.
- After receiving a clear diagnosis of adjustment disorder, a patient felt empowered to manage overwhelming feelings and successfully navigate challenging life changes, improving their overall well-being.
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:
Practice
3730 Kirby Dr Ste 925, Houston, TX, 77098
Phone: (713) 527-8822
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- University of the West Indies Faculty of Medicine (Cave Hill) (Medical School) - 1981
- American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology (Psychiatry)
Here are answers to some common questions about receiving Psychiatric care with Dr. Clarke:
- What is the main difference between a Psychiatrist and a Psychologist?
- Psychiatrists are medical doctors (MD or DO) who can prescribe medication. Psychologists (PhD or PsyD) are not medical doctors and cannot prescribe medication, but specialize in psychotherapy and psychological testing. They often work collaboratively 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 don't require one. It's always best to check with your specific insurance plan to confirm coverage details and any referral requirements before scheduling an appointment.
- How long will it take for my medication to start working?
- Most psychiatric medications, especially antidepressants, take several weeks (4-6 weeks, for example) to reach their full therapeutic effect. Patience and regular follow-up appointments with Dr. Clarke are important to monitor your progress and adjust the dosage as needed.
- What should I expect during my first psychiatric evaluation?
- Your first appointment with Dr. Clarke will involve a comprehensive discussion of your symptoms, medical and family history, and current life circumstances. This allows Dr. Clarke to gain a complete understanding for an accurate diagnosis. It's a collaborative conversation, the first step toward developing a personalized treatment plan.
- Can a psychiatrist help with ADHD in adults?
- Yes, psychiatrists are experts in diagnosing and treating adult ADHD. Dr. Clarke can perform a thorough evaluation to confirm the diagnosis and manage both medication (stimulant and non-stimulant options) and therapeutic strategies to help improve focus and daily functioning.
- What is ECT and is it safe?
- Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is a safe and highly effective medical procedure used to treat severe mental health conditions, such as treatment-resistant depression. Performed under general anesthesia, it involves brief electrical pulses to the brain. Modern ECT is very different from its portrayal in movies and is a frontline treatment option for severe cases.
- 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's hard to control and significantly impacts daily life. Dr. Clarke can help determine if your symptoms meet the criteria for a disorder and require treatment.
- Can you help with addiction or substance use problems?
- Yes, addiction and substance use disorders are a key area of psychiatry. Dr. Clarke is trained to treat these issues and can provide a diagnostic evaluation, manage withdrawal symptoms, and prescribe medications like Suboxone® to help reduce cravings and support recovery.
3730 Kirby Dr Ste 925
Houston TX 77098
Phone: (713) 527-8822
Norma Clarke, 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): 1154446391
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. Norma Clarke 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.