PHILADELPHIA, PA — Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates, a leading mental health services provider in Philadelphia, has announced the appointment of Dr. Samantha Wyckoff as Director of Addiction Services. The move comes as the city grapples with an escalating opioid crisis and seeks to strengthen support for those battling substance use disorders.
Dr. Wyckoff, a board-certified psychiatrist specializing in addiction psychiatry, will spearhead Rittenhouse’s expanded services aimed at addressing substance use disorders. These include Medication Assisted Treatments (MAT) such as oral and injectable opioid receptor blockers, and dual diagnosis treatment for co-occurring substance, mood, and anxiety disorders.
The hiring of Dr. Wyckoff comes at a critical time. Mayor Cherelle Parker’s plans to tackle Philadelphia’s opioid epidemic are moving forward rapidly, and the need for comprehensive, community-based treatment services is pressing.
“I am joining Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates at a critical time for our communities in Philadelphia,” said Wyckoff. “Every day, fourteen of our neighbors, friends, and loved ones die from an accidental drug overdose. This doesn’t have to happen; with continued focus on substance use treatment and community resources, Philadelphians can make meaningful progress towards recovery.”
Dr. Wyckoff brings a wealth of experience to her new role. She completed her fellowship in addiction psychiatry at Weill Cornell Medical Center, earned her medical degree from Tulane University School of Medicine, and completed her psychiatric residency at Montefiore Medical Center at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine. In addition to her work at Rittenhouse, she provides inpatient substance use and dual diagnosis treatment to Philadelphia’s underserved community at the Kirkbride Center.
Dr. Chris Pagnani, MD, Founder and Medical Director of Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates, highlighted the importance of Dr. Wyckoff’s expertise in the city’s broader efforts to combat opioid addiction. “Our psychiatrists and mental health experts understand that recovery requires coordination between our city officials and mental health resources,” said Pagnani. “Dr. Wyckoff’s expertise will better prepare us to be part of that support for Philadelphia, today and for the future.”
Dr. Wyckoff will offer substance use disorder services at Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associate’s Rittenhouse Square office in Philadelphia and via telepsychiatry to all of Pennsylvania. Her appointment underscores the growing recognition of the role mental health services play in addressing substance use disorders, providing hope for those struggling with addiction and their loved ones.
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