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
Is being obsessed with one's looks some sort of a disease?
Spending hours in front of your mirror is clearly dysfunctional. At this point I would not call it a disease, but you clearly need help coping with this pattern. I would certainly suggest counseling. READ MORE
Is there a way that I can concentrate better?
Consider using a Mindfulness app such as Headspace READ MORE
I discovered anti-depressant pills in my daughter's cupboard yesterday. How should I confront her on this?
When you are calm and not too upset about the situation,mention to her that while cleaning you found these pills and would she be interested in talking about what they are for. Being aggressive or demanding will likely turn her off. READ MORE
Is there a difference between a psychologist and a psychiatrist?
A psychiatrist is first trained as a physician. Then there is a 4-year period of training in in-patient and out-patient therapy. A psychologist has a masters or a Phd from a university or another training program. READ MORE
Is it okay to drink when taking antidepressants?
Since alcohol is sedating, if your antidepressant has sedative side effects, you should avoid driving or operating machinery. Also, limit the amount you drink. READ MORE
Is there any medication to cure OCD?
Some SSRIs have modest benefits, but psychological therapies are complimentary. READ MORE
Is bipolar disorder hereditary?
Yes, but the risk is probably less that 50% READ MORE
Is negative thinking a disease?
Negative thinking is a symptom of depression. It would be in your best interest to have an evaluation by your primary care MD to evaluate other symptoms of depression. READ MORE
Is premenstrual syndrome normal?
It occurs in a minority of women. Consult with your OB/GYN doctor. READ MORE
Is depression hereditary?
There is a significant genetic component to depression, but probably less that half of vulnerable family will develop depression. If you develop symptoms, please seek help early. READ MORE
Vivid daydreams
If you wish to curtail these daydreams, use cognitive-behavioral techniques. First, try saying stop, if ineffective, try thinking about something else. The most powerful is behavioral - do something that requires your full attention. READ MORE
Is negative thinking a disease?
Negativity is not a disease. However, it is a major system of depression. Several other symptoms are necessary to make a diagnosis and consider therapeutic intervention. READ MORE
Privacy and confidentiality with caregivers
A rigid attitude toward confidentiality can prevent optimal care. Unfortunately some psychiatrists adopt this practice. A call to this psychiatrist expressing your desire to co-ordinate cares would reveal the degree to which this may be possible. READ MORE
Can I go to a psychiatrist instead of a psychologist?
Many psychiatrists provide excellent psychotherapy, but you should ascertain that the person you are considering does therapy as a major part of his or her practice. READ MORE
Depression and Alcohol..Chicken or the egg?
You are an alcoholic, but it sounds like you also have a depressive illness. These 2 conditions are present together at times. READ MORE
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Zoloft?
Both alcohol and Zoloft are sedatives so combining them risks respiratory depression READ MORE
I think I may be depressed. What do I do?
Probably the best first step is to see your primary care physician READ MORE
I'm having some severe chest pain with anxiety. Is this dangerous? What could it be?
Your chest pain may be a symptom of a panic attack or it could also be angina or other cardiac symptoms Often cardiac symptoms are accompanied by pain down the left shoulder and arm, but because cardiac symptoms are potentially the most life threatening, a medical evaluation would be the safest step to take. 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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