Rachel S. Young

I am a Certified Physician Assistant and have had a passion for psychiatry since starting PA school. I grew up in rural Ohio and became particularly interested in psychiatry after taking psychology classes in college. I saw how friends and family members struggled with their own mental health concerns and how much their psychiatrists and therapists helped them. I developed a better understanding of psychiatry once I started PA school and going through my clinical rotations. I have always had a strong interest in my patients’ life stories and truly wanted to make a difference in their lives.

I earned my bachelor’s degree in Biology from Otterbein University in Columbus, Ohio, and earned my master’s degree in Physician Assistant Studies at Ohio Dominican University in 2016. Before Roundhouse, I worked in an outpatient psychiatric office treating a variety of different psychiatric problems.

My approach to treatment is to first listen carefully to my patient’s concerns, needs, and expectations for treatment. I also ask about any other symptoms and try to get a full history of his or her stressors, past medical history, and general social history. I feel it is important to understand the whole story of my patient.

In my experience, I believe a patient and his or her provider need to have a two-way relationship. I want to make sure my patients are comfortable with their treatment and care plans. I always discuss what medication options are available, the relevant risks vs. benefits, and if there are alternatives such as psychotherapy that will help. I strongly believe that combining both is usually the most effective plan.

As a Physician Assistant I am also trained in the physical side of medicine and I will take into account other medications you may be taking that may interact with your psychiatric medications that I may prescribe for you.

I am an active member of the American Academy of Physician Assistants, and the Virginia Academy of Physician Assistants.

I am engaged to my fiancé, Curt, and we both love hiking and trying new restaurants in the area. In summer and spring, I love to play volleyball and participate in different water sports.