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
How is bipolar disorder 1 diagnosed in adults?
There must be a pattern of mood swings between depression and mania. Manic episodes include hyperactivity with decreased need for sleep and impaired judgement and often feelings of grandiosity. READ MORE
Which antidepressants help with pain?
I have very limited experience in this area. I treated one patient with Cymbalta and he noted a significant reduction in his need for pain medication. I have not seen medical literature addressing this question in the last few years. READ MORE
How can I stop negative thoughts?
Negative thoughts often involve a preoccupation with the past or the future. If this is a significant part of your negativity, you can work at directing your thoughts to the immediate present. Sometimes it helps to focus on tasks. If negativity is more pervasive, depression my be the problem; in which case, counseling or therapy would be in order. READ MORE
What is the main cause of ADHD?
It appears to be genetic READ MORE
Is it better to take sertraline at night or in the morning?
Sertraline tends to have sedative qualities, therefore I usually recommend starting it at night. Occasionally, a person says that they have sleep problems since starting. In that situation, I suggest taking it after breakfast. READ MORE
What are the signs of a manic depressive?
There are episodes of hyperactivity not sleeping much and impulsive behaviors {manic] and episodes of depression: negativity, lack of energy and withdrawal. These are the most common behaviors seen by a non-clinician. READ MORE
Do antidepressants work for generalized anxiety?
Some do if they are not activating. I would be best to consult with a psychiatrist to choose the most appropriate one. READ MORE
What do antidepressants do to the brain?
They supply compounds that are deficient in the brain. READ MORE
How successful is cognitive behavioral therapy?
It can be very successful, but you have to work hard at making changes. READ MORE
Can sugar worsen depression?
There is some evidence that sugar may stimulate depression. READ MORE
Can anxiety change your personality?
It depends on how you manage your anxiety. If you get too wrapped up in it, that can definitely change your personality. It is important to see your anxiety as a condition to deal with, not who you are. READ MORE
Is anxiety common in the US?
Anxiety is very common. Life is quite stressful in the US, and stress leads to anxiety.Maturing as an adult enables a person to gradually manage stress better and not allow it to develop into anxiety. READ MORE
Are senior citizens more likely to develop depression?
Yes.. Seniors are more likely to develop depression. READ MORE
I caught my husband having an affair?
This is very traumatic for you. It will take time for your husband to earn your trust again. Trust develops gradually based on a person proving trustworthy by being trustworthy in larger ways. So, he has a lot of work to show you that you can trust him. READ MORE
Is depression a lifelong illness?
Not always. The greater the biologic component, the more likely it will last, but often with episodic depression. READ MORE
How can I help someone with manic depression?
Encourage her to see a psychiatrist. READ MORE
How do I stop overthinking everything?
You might consider mindfulness meditation. There are several apps available-I use Headspace READ MORE
What is the difference between manic depression and bipolar disorder?
There are 2 types of bipolar disorder: Manic depression which varies between manic episodes and depressive episodes and bipolar depression which varies between depressive episodes and normal mood or mild agitation. READ MORE
What are natural methods to treat anxiety disorder?
Exercise regularly and get at least 8 hours of sleep a night. READ MORE
How long usually is treatment for depression?
The length of therapy varies tremendously depending on response to medication, level of coping skills, and external stressors. The best response to medication and no other issues might involve a few visits followed by med management occasional visits. 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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