Robert James Spensley
Psychiatrist | Psychiatry
4217 Winding Woods Way Fair Oaks California, 95628About
Dr. Robert Spensley has been selected as a top doctor and is a published member of The Leading Physicians of the World, being recognized for their experience, compassion and medical contributions. Although he is now retired, for years, Dr. Robert Spensley provided California patients with unsurpassed care and comprehensive treatments. With a passion for medicine and innovation, Dr. Robert Spensley upheld the highest standards in patient care while being a vital resource to local residents and the healthcare community.
Education and Training
University of Michigan
Board Certification
American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology-Psychiatry
Provider Details
Robert James Spensley's Expert Contributions
What can I do about my panic attacks?
Medication would be in order. See your primary care doctor or a psychiatrist. READ MORE
What are the symptoms of depression?
Depressed mood most days, loss of interest or pleasure,weight loss or gain, insomnia or over sleeping,agitation or retardation, fatigue or loss of energy, feeling of worthlessness, decreased ability to think or concentrate,;and thoughts of death or suicide. At least 5 of these symptoms and decreased functional ability. If you are close to this symptom cluster, you should seek a comprehensive evaluation. READ MORE
Why am I always angry and sensitive?
I would say that it is immature behavior for a 22-year-old. My suggestion would be to arrange for an evaluation by a counselor or therapist. READ MORE
What causes manic depression?
There does not appear to be clear answer to your question. One clear cause is genetic, but this represents less than 50% of causes. Other causes are speculative. It does seem clear that you are in need of professional help. READ MORE
How do you recover from depression?
Depression is a complicated problem. Usually there are situational stresses and often cognitive and behavioral processes that have self-defeating components. There may also be biologic components. I would suggest a comprehensive evaluation by a psychiatrist you believe listens well and can relate deeply to your situation. READ MORE
Can you take anti-anxiety medicine while overweight?
Yes, it should be completely safe for you. READ MORE
Who is the best professional to see for anxiety treatment?
A psychiatrist would be best because he/she can evaluate whether medication is a good choice together with working on ways you can manage stress. READ MORE
Adopted child suffering from depression?
If her depression is not so severe that she is dysfunctional, she my not need a psychiatric evaluation at this time. You two can help your child by being warm and affectionate to the degree the child is comfortable with affection. You can also be interested in hearing about the depression and what the child can tell you about the sources of the depression. Acceptance and understanding can be very helpful. READ MORE
What could be the cause of panic attacks?
Usually, panic attacks have a biologic basis. See your primary doc for an evaluation and possible referral. READ MORE
Why is my anxiety so high?
You would need a comprehensive evaluation to sort out possible biologic factors, situational stresses, and behavioral and cognitive patterns that are stress inducing. READ MORE
What does manic depression mean?
Bipolar depression is diagnosed when someone has significant mood swings into significant depressive symptoms. Medication for this disorder is different than that for major depression. READ MORE
Can repeated blackouts indicate an alcohol problem?
Absolutely. AA would be a good way to get feedback about her drinking. READ MORE
When should one begin taking anti-anxiety medication?
It would be wise to see a therapist first. Often anxiety is situational or associated with past behavior patterns. Medication should not be your first consideration. READ MORE
My son is failing in school. Should I consult a counselor?
Definitely READ MORE
What are good anti-depressants?
The more severe the depression, the more likely antidepressants will help. I would recommend you see a doctor. READ MORE
What kind of therapy is used to treat schizophrenia?
A combination of medication management, supportive psychotherapy, and socialization. READ MORE
How do you know if you are clinically depressed?
There are various biologic signs and symptoms used to determine clinical depression and determine possible medication management. A doctor is the best person to make this judgement. READ MORE
Can stress induce vomiting?
Yes, stress can induce vomiting especially in adolescents. READ MORE
Can I switch anti-depressants right away?
It would be safer to reduce the Cymbalta by 20 mg and add the Effexor 75 mg. These are roughly equivalent doses. If there are no ill effects, after 10 days try to reduce by another 20 mg and add another 75 mg If all goes well, in another 10 days take the 3rd step. The dose of Effexor my not be adequate for the antidepressant effect you have with 60 mg of Cymbalta. READ MORE
What should I do about head twitches?
I would recommend a Neurological evaluation. READ MORE
Areas of expertise and specialization
Faculty Titles & Positions
- Associate Professor, UC Davis -
Professional Society Memberships
- American Psychiatric Association, California Medical Association
Articles and Publications
36 Publications
What do you attribute your success to?
Psychiatry is natural for him, as he is comfortable listening to people and helping them develop an increased capacity for intimacy.
Teaching and speaking
Psychotherapy supervision, psychiatry residents, UC Davis Sshool of Medicine
Hobbies / Sports
- Tennis, Woodworking, Gardening
Favorite professional publications
- American Journal of Psychiatry
Robert James Spensley's Practice location
Robert James Spensley's reviews
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