Dr. Barbara Sparacino, MD, FAPA
Addiction Psychiatrist | Addiction Medicine
1695 Nw 9th Ave Suite #3100 Miami FL, 33136About
With 17 years of dedicated experience in the field of psychiatry, Dr. Barbara Sparacino stands out as a highly skilled and compassionate board-certified psychiatrist specializing in both adult and geriatric mental health. Dr. Sparacino has built a distinguished career characterized by a commitment to providing exceptional care and advancing the understanding of psychiatric disorders across the lifespan.
Throughout her career, Dr. Sparacino has been recognized for her holistic approach to mental health care, combining evidence-based treatments with a profound empathy for her patients. Her work is marked by a dedication to improving quality of life through personalized treatment plans and collaborative care strategies.
Education and Training
American Psychiatric Association Institute Psychiatric Services Buprenorphine Training 2009
Belmont Center of Comprehensive Treatment Electroconvulsive Treatment Training 2008
Universidad Iberoamericana School of Medicine MD 2004
Universidad Iberoamericana School of Medicine Pre-Med 1999
Florida International University Biology 1996
Board Certification
Addiction Psychiatry (Psychiatry and Neurology)
Geriatric Psychiatry (Psychiatry and Neurology)
Psychiatry and NeurologyAmerican Board of Psychiatry and NeurologyABPN- Geriatric Psychiatry
Provider Details
Dr. Barbara Sparacino, MD, FAPA's Expert Contributions
Balancing the Costs and Care: Strategies for the Sandwich Generation
Caring for both children and aging parents is a reality for many Americans today—especially those in their 40s and 50s, often referred to as the "sandwich generation." These caregivers spend an average of 50 hours a week juggling responsibilities at both ends, leaving them emotionally drained and...
How to Help Aging Parents Declutter Without Overstepping Boundaries
One of the biggest challenges is knowing how to begin the decluttering process without overstepping boundaries. The article highlights the importance of approaching the topic with empathy and respect. Instead of diving into the task with your own agenda, start by asking your parents open-ended...
From Stress to Strength: The Complicated Journey of Caring for Aging Parents
As our parents age, the dynamics of our relationships inevitably shift. This transition brings a mix of emotions—love, concern, frustration, and even guilt. It's a complicated journey that many families find themselves unprepared for, yet it’s one that most of us will face at some point.The...
The Hidden Cost of "Free" Caregiving
When we hear about caregiving, it’s often painted as a selfless act of love and devotion. But did you know that the cost of “free” caregiving in the U.S. is staggering? In fact, the estimated annual cost of unpaid caregiving is a jaw-dropping amount, reflecting the immense value and effort...
Navigating the Shift: Setting Boundaries with Aging Parents
Navigating the Shift: Setting Boundaries with Aging ParentsCaring for aging parents is a journey filled with love, sacrifice, and sometimes, a whole lot of guilt. But let's face it, it’s not always easy to provide everything they need, and that guilt can creep in when we fall short.The Changing...
How Smart Tech is Revolutionizing Care for Aging Parents
As our loved ones age, maintaining their independence while ensuring their safety becomes a priority! Smart home technology is proving to be a game-changer for caregivers, offering solutions that enhance safety, connectivity, and convenience. These highly-rated smart tech may be worth checking out...
Caring for Aging Parents: Before and After Coaching
Before CoachingCaring for aging parents can often catch people with little preparation. The process often starts subtly:You begin to notice minor issues with your parents as they get older. These issues, at first infrequent, gradually become more common and pressing.As the roles shift, the...
Solo Caregiving: A Guide for Only Children
According to recent Census Bureau data, the trend of having smaller families is on the rise. In 2022, 19% of American women aged 40-44 had only one child, nearly double the percentage from 1976. This shift means that many individuals are navigating the complex world of caregiving alone.Joy Loverde,...
How do you know when it's time to take a break?
Caring for aging parents is a deeply fulfilling yet demanding role. It requires unwavering dedication and love, often at the expense of our own well-being. Here's how to take a step back and make sure your own needs are being met:Extending Grace to YourselfIn our caregiving journey, we often extend...
Faculty Titles & Positions
- Chief Resident Temple University Hospital 2010 - 2011
- Assistant Professor Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine (FIU-HWCOM); Florida International University 2018 - Present
- Voluntary Assistant Professor Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Science; Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami 2013 - Present
- Chief Resident for Academics Temple University, School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry 2010 - 2011
- Substitute teacher Miami-Dade Public Schools System 2006 - 2007
- Lead Instructor Health Science Department; 2005 - 2007
- Medical Director Miami VA Medical Center 2015 - Present
- Psychiatrist Corrections Health Services 2016 - Present
- Psychiatrist Miami Jewish Health Systems 2013 - 2015
- Psychiatrist Jackson Memorial Hospital; Mental Health Crisis Service 2011 - 2019
- Barbara Sparacino, M.D., P.A. Private Practice 2013 - 2014
- Outpatient Psychiatrist Miami VA Medical Center 2012 - 2013
- Inpatient Psychiatric Service Reading Hospital 2010 - 2011
- The Aging Parent Coach, LLC 2023 - Present
Awards
- Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association 2014
- The Laughlin Award 2014
- “For Achievement During Residency Training” 2011 Temple University, School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry; Laughlin Family Foundation
- The Charles Shagass, M. D. Award “For Scholarly Achievement During Residency Training” 2011 Temple University, School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry
- The John R. Benson, M. D. Award “For Outstanding Teaching Skills During Residency Training” 2011 Temple University, School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry
- The Paul J Fink, M. D. Award “For Excellence in Service During Residency Training” 2011 Temple University, School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry
- Psychiatry Resident Achievement Award 2010 Philadelphia Psychiatric Society
- The John R. Benson, M. D. Award “For Outstanding Teaching Skills During Residency Training 2011 Temple University, School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry
Professional Memberships
- American Psychiatric Association
- American Association for Geriatric Psychiatry
- American Medical Association
- Association of Women Psychiatrists
- American Academy of Addiction Psychiatry
- National Alliance on Mental Illness
- Florida Psychiatric Society
Fellowships
- Jackson Memorial Hospital Geriatric Psychiatry 2012
Fellowships
- Geriatric Psychiatry Fellowship, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 2011-2012
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- Depression in Seniors
What is depression?Depression is a mood disorder that causes an individual to feel sad, lonely, lost, angry, hopeless, or frustrated daily. These severe emotions can interfere with the individual's everyday life. For elders, depression can arise through hard life experiences, like losing a spouse,...
- Nymphomania: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, and Diagnosis
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- Adderall: Side Effects, High, Abuse, Withdrawal
What is Adderall?Adderall is the brand name of a prescription drug that contains a mixture of amphetamine salts, specifically 75% dextroamphetamine and 25% levoamphetamine salts. It belongs to the drug class called central nervous system (CNS) stimulants. It is also classified among...
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