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Endocrinology Associates is an adult-only specialty practice under the direction of Dr. Elena A. Christofides. She
focuses on quality care that puts the patient first.
No hidden fees- know the cost of your care up front. She is a recognized expert in diabetes, weight management,
osteoporosis, hypercholesterolemia, hypertension, polycystic ovarian syndrome, pituitary disorders, male and female
hormone replacement, infertility, transgender therapy and thyroid disorders.
We are proud to specialize in the following technologies and services:
- Advanced genetic testing
- Personalized genomic counseling and health management
- Customized integrative medicine that includes supplement and fitness recommendations
- Telemedicine for prior approved patients
- Thyroid Ultrasound and biopsy
- Insulin pump training and management
- Diabetes and Lipid management
- Bioidentical hormone therapy
- Obesity management
- Compassionate Transgender care *Proud ally of the LGBTQ community
Check Out some of Dr. Elena Christofides’ most recent articles and publications below!
Case Breaks in Endocrinology- In this podcast, endocrinologist Elena Christofides, MD, FACE, and primary
care physician Joseph Winchell, MD, consult on complex endocrine diagnoses and treatments.
Listen Here
Responsive Deep Brain Stimulation for Obesity
Read More
For Women of Color, Hair Straighteners Pose a Potentially Dangerous Dilemma
Read More
Living with Acromegaly, Managing Symptoms, and the Importance of Speaking to your Doctor
Learn
More
Comparison of electronic health records and electronic source data in clinical research trials: a retrospective review – Elena Christofides, MD, FACE
Read More
Ketamine Assisted Therapy Frequently Asked Questions
Prior to your treatment, it's important not to consume any food for about four to six hours. This helps mitigate any potential discomfort while in the dreamlike state induced by ketamine. However, it's essential to remain hydrated throughout the process to prevent dehydration. A pre-session consultation is necessary to review your medications, discuss any concerns with your therapist, and ensure we understand your needs for the treatment. We may need to make medication adjustments during or after the session based on your individual requirements.
Following the treatment, you'll likely feel deeply relaxed and somewhat disoriented. For safety reasons, we advise against driving yourself home or to your accommodation. It's best to arrange for a friend, relative, or rideshare service to take you. It's important to take it easy for the remainder of the day, avoiding strenuous activities. Consider scheduling a therapy session to process your experience and ensure you're in a supportive environment to discuss your thoughts and feelings.
Individuals experiencing various mental health concerns, such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, addiction, or overwhelming thoughts and cravings, may benefit from ketamine therapy. Particularly, individuals with a history of childhood trauma, which may not respond adequately to traditional talk therapy alone, could find relief through ketamine treatment. We approach these sensitive topics with care and sensitivity to ensure your needs are met.
Ketamine offers an alternative to traditional mental health medications like SSRIs or anxiolytics, which some individuals may prefer due to concerns about long-term side effects. It's considered intermittent therapy and may be suitable for those who wish to avoid chronic medication use. Collaboration with your therapist and psychiatrist is crucial to ensure the safety and efficacy of ketamine as part of your treatment plan.
Ketamine can be administered via three main methods: nasal spray, intravenous (IV), or intramuscular injection. We typically prefer the intramuscular injection method, which involves a baseline shot followed by another after 30 minutes, providing a smoother experience without the inconvenience of an IV. This approach allows you to remain comfortably under a weighted blanket, enhancing the dreamlike state during therapy sessions.
Ketamine is legally available in all 50 states and has been extensively used as an anesthetic for over five decades, ensuring its safety and efficacy. While there are alternative mental health treatments and medications, many are not widely accessible or federally approved. Ketamine is considered a preferable option for addressing various mental health concerns due to its legality, safety, and effectiveness in clinical settings.
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