Expert Psychiatric Care for Every Stage of Life
Johns Hopkins trained in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and board-certified since 1992, Dr. Smita Patel delivers compassionate, integrative mental health care for adolescents and adults — combining expert psychopharmacology with mindfulness-based techniques. Available in-office in Washington, DC and via telemedicine.
Specialized Expertise Across a Full Spectrum of Conditions
From childhood developmental challenges to adult mood disorders, Dr. Patel brings 30+ years of clinical experience to each diagnosis — with individualized treatment plans grounded in evidence and compassion.
Anxiety Disorders
GAD, Social Phobia, OCD, Panic Disorder — integrative relief for all ages
Depression
Personalized medication management + mindfulness for lasting recovery
Bipolar Disorder
Expert mood stabilization with compassionate, ongoing support
Autism Spectrum Disorder
Individualized, collaborative care from a Johns Hopkins–trained specialist
Eating Disorders
Holistic psychiatric care addressing the mental health roots of disordered eating
Attention Deficit Disorder
Evaluation and treatment for attention, focus, and impulse-control challenges in adolescents and adults.
Treating adolescents and adults · In-office in Washington, DC · Telemedicine available
Academic Rigor. Heartfelt Compassion. Whole-Person Care.
Dr. Patel's practice is built on three foundational commitments that set her apart in Washington, DC's psychiatric landscape.
🎓 Unmatched Credentials & Experience
Dr. Patel completed her specialty training in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at The Johns Hopkins School of Medicine and has been board-certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology since 1992. As a Distinguished Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association and Assistant Clinical Professor at George Washington University, she brings over 30 years of private practice expertise to every patient relationship.
🧘 An Integrative Approach to Mental Health
Dr. Patel doesn't just treat symptoms — she treats the whole person. Her integrative model combines evidence-based psychopharmacology with mindfulness techniques, breathing exercises, and relaxation practices to promote optimum wellness of the mind, body, and soul. Each treatment plan is individualized and carefully monitored.
🌐 Accessible, Flexible, Insurance-Friendly Care
Dr. Patel offers both in-office appointments at her centrally located Washington, DC office and telemedicine sessions for patients who prefer care from home. She accepts major insurance plans — including Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare/Optum, and Aetna.
Meet Dr. Smita Patel
Dr. Smita Patel is a board-certified psychiatrist with a private practice in the heart of Washington, DC. Trained at The Johns Hopkins School of Medicine in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and a Distinguished Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association, Dr. Patel has spent more than three decades helping adolescents and adults navigate some of life's most challenging mental health journeys. Her approach is as personal as it is clinical. Patients consistently describe her as warm, responsive, and genuinely invested in their well-being — a physician who doesn't just prescribe, but listens, educates, and partners with each patient toward lasting wellness. As an Assistant Clinical Professor of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences at George Washington University, Dr. Patel remains at the forefront of psychiatric medicine.
Getting Started Is Simple
Reach Out
Contact our office to schedule your initial consultation. New patients are welcome — Dr. Patel's team will guide you through the intake process.
Your First Appointment
Dr. Patel conducts a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation — taking the time to understand your full history, concerns, and goals. No rushed visits. No one-size-fits-all answers.
Your Personalized Care Plan
Together, you and Dr. Patel will build an individualized treatment plan — combining the right medication management strategy with mindfulness-based techniques tailored to your life.
What Patients Are Saying
Real Stories. Real Results. Real Care.
I consider myself so very fortunate to have been referred to Dr. Patel. She has big brown eyes that look directly into yours with understanding, care and concern — making me feel safe. Her practice includes her own approach to breathing and relaxation, which is so vital to mental health and overall well-being. I am excited to see what she will do as she expands her horizons in psychiatric medicine.
Jeanne
Montgomery County
I tried many psychiatrists who were located closer to my new home and place of work. None of them had the compassion or holistic support offered by Dr. Patel. Dr. Patel is a key member of my support network.
Kristen
Anne Arundel County
Dr. Patel genuinely cares about me. Whenever I reach out to Dr. Patel, she responds and works with me to fix whatever the issue may be. She is extremely responsive — and I cannot tell you how valuable and unusual this characteristic is in her field. She even reaches out to me to see how I am doing on a fairly regular basis.
R.U.
Montgomery County, MD
I have been a patient of Doctor Patel for several years. I really appreciate how much she cares. Thank you Dr. Patel.
Edward
Montgomery Village, MD
We Accept Your Insurance
Dr. Patel believes that access to quality psychiatric care should never be a financial burden. That's why her practice accepts the following major insurance plans:
All plans accepted
Co-payments are due at the time of each visit. We accept all major credit cards. Not sure if your plan is covered? Contact our office and we'll help you verify your benefits before your first appointment.