expert type icon EXPERT

Dr. Cathi Sitzman, PH.D.

Psychologist

Dr. Cathi Sitzman PH.D. is a top Psychologist in Washington, . With a passion for the field and an unwavering commitment to their specialty, Dr. Cathi Sitzman PH.D. is an expert in changing the lives of their patients for the better. Through their designated cause and expertise in the field, Dr. Cathi Sitzman PH.D. is a prime example of a true leader in healthcare. As a leader and expert in their field, Dr. Cathi Sitzman PH.D. is passionate about enhancing patient quality of life. They embody the values of communication, safety, and trust when dealing directly with patients. In Washington, DC, Dr. Cathi Sitzman PH.D. is a true asset to their field and dedicated to the profession of medicine.
48 years Experience
Dr. Cathi Sitzman, PH.D.
  • Washington, DC
  • The Cahtolic University of America
  • Accepting new patients

What foods reduce depression?

There is no particular diet that reduces depression. However, certain foods may ease your symptoms and a healthy nutritional plan is generally a good idea for overall health. Avoid READ MORE
There is no particular diet that reduces depression. However, certain foods may ease your symptoms and a healthy nutritional plan is generally a good idea for overall health.

Avoid sugary, processed foods (simple carbs) and opt instead for complex carbs such as whole grains, fruits, vegetables and legumes.

Vitamins B-12 and D are known to decrease mild depressive symptoms and help to maintain overall health. As does Omega-3 Fatty Acids (flaxseed, canola and soybean oil, salmon, tuna, nuts and dark green leafy vegetables).

Your weight and lifestyle can help (or hurt) your depression as well. Being active, exercising, and maintaining a healthy BMI are very good natural supplements in warding off symptoms of depression.

Can I treat my depression naturally?

There are many variables here. How long you have been depressed, how severe your symptoms are, if this is reactive (such as grief, job loss, etc.) or chromic, family history...all READ MORE
There are many variables here. How long you have been depressed, how severe your symptoms are, if this is reactive (such as grief, job loss, etc.) or chromic, family history...all are factors.

However, eating a healthy diet of lean protein, dark green leafy vegetables, nuts, Omega-3 fatty acids, Vitamins B-12 and D can certainly help alleviate symptoms.
Avoiding sugary and processed foods, alcohol and drugs, fatty proteins, excessive caffeine may also help control your depression.

An active lifestyle and maintaining a healthy weight can also be a help.
And of course, talking with a mental health professional can also be a "natural" means of treating depression.

Can social workers suffer from depression?

We can love our work and still become "blue" or even depressed while engaged in it. Therapy is very hard to provide and requires a great deal of attention, constant studies, supervision, READ MORE
We can love our work and still become "blue" or even depressed while engaged in it. Therapy is very hard to provide and requires a great deal of attention, constant studies, supervision, etc. Also, depending on the population you're working with, you may be suffering from what is clinically called "vicarious trauma", taking on the symptoms of your clients/patients.

A good supervisor and/or peer group can be very helpful with this. It is quite normal....and support is a needed ingredient in maintaining your own good spirits.

Why do I keep crying every day?

Crying every day, for no apparent reason, can be a sign of depression (even without you being aware of it). It also can be a sign of some other physical disorder. I would suggest READ MORE
Crying every day, for no apparent reason, can be a sign of depression (even without you being aware of it). It also can be a sign of some other physical disorder. I would suggest a thorough exam by your GP first. If there is nothing out of the ordinary there, a consultation with a therapist/psychologist is a good idea.

Compulsive Sexual Behavior

At age 66 I would presume that you are past menopause. If not, you may want to start with a thorough examination by your gynecologist. Compulsive Sexual Behavior can be treated READ MORE
At age 66 I would presume that you are past menopause. If not, you may want to start with a thorough examination by your gynecologist.

Compulsive Sexual Behavior can be treated by a mental health professional with an expertise in this arena. If there are no underlying physical issues, I highly recommend you have a consultation with such a person.

Is fear of closed spaces a real disorder?

Oh yes, clostrophobia (fear of closed spaces) is a VERY real disorder. In a youngster, generally the best way of helping her is with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy given by a child READ MORE
Oh yes, clostrophobia (fear of closed spaces) is a VERY real disorder. In a youngster, generally the best way of helping her is with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy given by a child psychologist or social worker who is a specialist in this field. Untreated, the problem will likely grow worse over time. So it is well worth your while to get her the help she needs now.

How can I help my daughter recover from accident trauma?

As a trauma therapist, I would suggest that she try therapy again. With a known expert in treating trauma. This is a very particular area of treatment which includes several READ MORE
As a trauma therapist, I would suggest that she try therapy again. With a known expert in treating trauma. This is a very particular area of treatment which includes several known skills (EMDR, CBT, hypnosis) that can be very healing.
Meditation, mindfulllness and yoga may also be a help. Good luck!

I burst into frequent crying spells. Is it a sign of depression?

Has anything happened that may have triggered this spell of crying? If there isn’t a notable “trigger”, I would say that it is possible that this is a sign of depression. Are READ MORE
Has anything happened that may have triggered this spell of crying? If there isn’t a notable “trigger”, I would say that it is possible that this is a sign of depression. Are you sad? Lacking in motivation? Eating/Sleeping too much or too little? Not finding pleasure in your usual enjoyable activities? If so, I would suspect depression and would direct you to find professional help.

Do antipsychotic medicines cause weight gain?

You haven’t said what medication she is taking, but generally speaking, yes... medication can contribute to weight gain. She ought to talk with her prescribing physician to see READ MORE
You haven’t said what medication she is taking, but generally speaking, yes... medication can contribute to weight gain. She ought to talk with her prescribing physician to see if this is possible and if so, is there a different medication she could try.

Can depression medicines cause excessive sleeping?

It is possible that your medication is causing sleepiness. It depends on the dose and the medication, of course. Usually, this symptom disappears in 4-6 weeks. If that does READ MORE
It is possible that your medication is causing sleepiness. It depends on the dose and the medication, of course. Usually, this symptom disappears in 4-6 weeks. If that does not work for you, speak with your prescribing doctor about trying a different medication.

Also, be sure to exercise, eat and sleep well. This definitely will help.

What is the reason for panic attacks?

Panic attacks are common and extremely uncomfortable. That said, they are quite treatable. She might start with a good workbook (The Anxiety and Phobia Workbook by Bourne is READ MORE
Panic attacks are common and extremely uncomfortable. That said, they are quite treatable. She might start with a good workbook (The Anxiety and Phobia Workbook by Bourne is a recommendation) if she is afraid to get treatment.
However, I would let her know that treatment is extremely effective in dealing with panic and that she owes it to herself to give it a try.

Do bad dreams mean anything?

Well, I imagine something is troubling your son. Have you noticed any changes in his daily routines? School success? Friends? Extra-curriculars? This is generally not a phase, READ MORE
Well, I imagine something is troubling your son. Have you noticed any changes in his daily routines? School success? Friends? Extra-curriculars? This is generally not a phase, so if it persists, I would at least call your family practitioner to have a conversation about what is troubling him.

What are the best ways to overcome negative thoughts?

Well, of course you could seek help from a specialist who works in the area of negative thoughts/OCD. There are also many fine books on the subject, if you are someone who is READ MORE
Well, of course you could seek help from a specialist who works in the area of negative thoughts/OCD. There are also many fine books on the subject, if you are someone who is good at self-help. Martin Seligman’s work on Learned Helplessness is quite good. Meditation and Mindfulness exercises can also be extremely helpful. Try taking a look at Hugh Byrne’s site...he’s quite good.

I am always anxious and have been this way for the last 7 years. What can I do to get a break from this anxiety?

I’m sorry for your loss. Sometimes, separation from a loved one can cause anxiety of this type. I would suggest you think about a support group for people grieving as you are. READ MORE
I’m sorry for your loss. Sometimes, separation from a loved one can cause anxiety of this type. I would suggest you think about a support group for people grieving as you are. Also, try some yoga and mindfulness/meditation to help with your anxiety. Sleep, exercise, and healthy eating always helps. If none of this does the trick, please consider professional help. Anxiety is a treatable illness and you needn’t be suffering like this.

How can one identify the signs of depression?

Hormonal changes certainly can effect mood, so do keep an eye on the changes you experience around the time of your period. Other signs of depression include: sleep changes, READ MORE
Hormonal changes certainly can effect mood, so do keep an eye on the changes you experience around the time of your period. Other signs of depression include: sleep changes, eating changes, withdrawal from others, lack of motivation, sadness, weepiness, and a general feeling of being unhappy. Please see your doctor if you are having some or all of these symptoms.

Is OCD a disease or a habit?

OCD is an illness...and generally speaking, a treatable illness. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy can be extremely helpful for people suffering from OCD. It is common for friends READ MORE
OCD is an illness...and generally speaking, a treatable illness. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy can be extremely helpful for people suffering from OCD. It is common for friends and family to become irritated by OCD behaviors...so again, this is a good reason to seek professional help.

I feel hungry all the time. Is it a psychological problem?

Hmmm....this could be a psychological issue. But I would start by getting a good physical exam with your Internist of General Practitioner. Thyroid issues and other problems READ MORE
Hmmm....this could be a psychological issue. But I would start by getting a good physical exam with your Internist of General Practitioner. Thyroid issues and other problems can lead to a constant sense of hunger. I would encourage you to start there. If nothing is discovered, then by all means look into psychological help.