Meet the Psychiatrist

Jessica R. Allen, M.D., an award-winning general adult and addiction psychiatrist, earned her M.D. from Eastern Virginia Medical School. Subsequently, Dr. Allen completed her general psychiatry residency training at East Carolina University’s Brody School of Medicine/Vidant Medical Center. There she mastered using both medications and talk therapy in combination and as stand-alone treatments for all psychiatric conditions. Dr. Allen also remained active in academic research throughout her residency--presenting research projects at regional and national scientific meetings, participating in community outreach programs, and publishing several manuscripts in national medical journals.

Addiction Psychiatrist

After residency, Dr. Allen completed an intensive Addiction Psychiatry fellowship at the prestigious Medical University of South Carolina. There she developed expertise in using medication-assisted treatment for addictive conditions, a practice area that she champions fiercely.

Dr. Allen’s training in treating addictions to substances informs her treatment style in approaching other, non-substance abuse, psychiatric conditions. Frequently society links the term addiction to only drugs and alcohol. At its core, addiction is simply engaging in a repetitive behavior even with the knowledge that the behavior will cause problems. People can become addicted to food, work/career (workaholics), perfectionism, damaging relationships, unhealthy thinking patterns or other behaviors (e.g. gambling, sex, the internet, video games). These behaviors have the potential to destabilize one’s life and lead to emotional distress. Dr. Allen is thoroughly trained in how to help patients navigate through self-discovery as a part of an overall treatment plan to make life more manageable. 

Ending Stigma 

Dr. Allen has been extremely active in initiatives to change the culture and perception that surrounds mental illness and psychiatric treatment. Because she recognizes the stigma associated with mental health treatment, she is sensitive to the emotional fragility that is present when patients seek psychiatric care for the first time. Dr. Allen offers a compassionate, non-judgmental, and strictly confidential environment to help patients feel more comfortable with their decision to pursue treatment. Treatment with Dr. Allen is solutions focused. She has created a medical practice that offers multiple services to patients, but the greatest service you will receive from this office is healthcare with a personalized touch – each treatment plan is unique. 

Hope

Your physical, social, psychological and professional health suffers when you struggle emotionally.  Each person has the power to lead a fulfilling, joyful life. Dr. Allen looks forward to helping you bring the balance and happiness back into your life.