Dr. Daniel Spoto, MD is a Geriatric Psychiatrist practicing at his clinic in Tampa, FL, dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive Geriatric Psychiatric care for older adults. He is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practices under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). Geriatric psychiatrists are specialized mental health doctors who expertly manage complex mental and behavioral conditions in older adults, such as depression, anxiety, and dementia, safely prescribing and managing medications while collaborating closely with primary care physicians and other healthcare providers. He serves older adults (typically age 65 and older) and prospective patients should call (813) 972-2000 to confirm if he is currently accepting new patients.
Dr. Daniel Spoto, MD is a psychiatrist in Tampa, FL with over 40 years of experience in the medical field. He earned his medical degree from University Of Miami Miller School Of Medicine in 1982 and is Board Certified in Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology. He is affiliated with medical facilities such as St. Joseph's Hospital and Moffitt Cancer Center Magnolia Campus, and is accepting telehealth appointments. With over 40 years of dedicated experience in Geriatric Psychiatric care, he brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to his patients and their families. He is committed to collaborative, evidence-based medicine, ensuring a supportive environment where patients and their families feel heard and empowered in their healthcare decisions. Dr. Spoto provides consultations primarily in English.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-provider partnership. Dr. Daniel Spoto is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Daniel Spoto is a compassionate partner in navigating the complexities of senior health, offering comprehensive geriatric psychiatric care. He expertly addresses mental and behavioral concerns, such as depression and anxiety, in older adults, while prioritizing safety and collaboration with primary care physicians and families. His approach emphasizes understanding each patient's unique needs and goals to create a personalized plan that maximizes well-being and independence.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Daniel Spoto can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Also Accepts These Carriers
- Curative
- Curative EPO
- Curative PPO
- Curative PPO Plus
- First Health
- First Health (Coventry Health Care) PPO
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Daniel Spoto provides expert, compassionate care for a range of conditions common in older adults, with a focus on managing symptoms and maintaining function. Common areas of focus include:
- Nondependent Alcohol Abuse: Managing nondependent alcohol abuse often involves counseling to understand and change drinking habits, leading to better health and a more fulfilling life.
- Major Depressive Disorder: Major depressive disorder in later life can be successfully treated with a combination of approaches tailored to your specific needs, which may involve medication, talking therapies, or other support, helping you reclaim joy and vitality.
- Adjustment Disorder: Adjustment disorder is a reaction to stress that can lead to emotional and behavioral challenges; therapy, medication, or a combination of both can help you adjust and regain your sense of normalcy and independence.
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a condition that can develop after a terrifying event, causing distressing memories, nightmares, and avoidance behaviors, but with the right treatment, including therapy and medication, you can find ways to manage symptoms and improve your quality of life.
- Panic Disorder: Experiencing unexpected and overwhelming panic attacks can be distressing, but it's important to know that panic disorder is treatable, allowing seniors to regain control and improve their overall well-being.
- Nondependent Drug and Alcohol Abuse: For older adults, using drugs or alcohol occasionally or in moderate amounts might still lead to health concerns or affect their quality of life; a psychiatrist can help find strategies to minimize these issues.
- Chronic Depression (Dysthymia): Chronic depression, or dysthymia, is a persistent sadness that significantly affects your daily life. But remember, it's a manageable condition. With a proper diagnosis and treatment plan tailored to your needs, you can experience significant improvements in your mood and overall quality of life.
- Mood Disorders (Dysthymia and Cyclothymia): If you're struggling with ongoing low mood or noticeable mood swings, these may be symptoms of dysthymia or cyclothymia. A psychiatrist's expertise can lead to effective treatment plans to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life.
- Bipolar Disorder: Characterized by unpredictable mood swings from mania to depression, bipolar disorder can be effectively managed with a personalized plan from a psychiatrist, incorporating medication, therapy, and lifestyle adjustments to help you live a more balanced and comfortable life.
- Drug and Alcohol Dependence: Substance dependence can lead to both physical and mental health problems, however, treatment programs tailored to older adults, such as medication, counseling, and support groups, can help individuals break free from addiction and maintain their independence.
- Alcoholism (Alcohol Dependence): A psychiatrist plays a vital role in safely managing alcohol addiction in older adults, often integrating medication, counseling, and support to help individuals overcome dependence and maintain their independence.
- Psychosis Due to Mental Illness: Experiencing psychosis, such as seeing or hearing things that aren't there, can be frightening. With appropriate treatment by a psychiatrist, including medication and potentially other therapies, these symptoms can be managed to improve quality of life and social interaction.
This list highlights some common health concerns and is for informational purposes. An accurate diagnosis and a personalized care plan can only be developed through a direct consultation with a qualified medical professional based on your specific health history.
To provide comprehensive and person-centered care, Dr. Daniel Spoto offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- Alcohol or Substance Misuse Screening and Counseling: Alcohol or substance misuse screening helps your psychiatrist identify potential problems impacting your mental and physical health, ensuring a more comprehensive treatment plan.
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): To enhance the effectiveness of medication, CBT provides seniors with practical techniques for managing symptoms and improving their quality of life.
- Dementia or Depression Screening: By assessing for both dementia and depression, healthcare providers can identify and manage overlapping symptoms, optimizing the senior's well-being.
- Psychiatric Evaluation: A psychiatric evaluation is a crucial step in managing your mental health, ensuring you receive the right medication and support.
- Psychological Evaluation: By assessing your mental state, a psychological evaluation helps your doctor rule out or confirm underlying conditions, leading to faster relief and better outcomes.
- Psychological Evaluations Prior to Bariatric Surgery: To promote successful weight loss surgery, psychological evaluations help manage pre-existing conditions like anxiety or depression that can impact the process.
- Opioid Substitution Therapy: This therapy assists in managing opioid withdrawal symptoms, making the transition to a healthier lifestyle more manageable and less disruptive for older adults.
Service availability can change. To understand which services are appropriate for your specific health needs, please schedule a consultation to develop a personalized care plan.
All medical services are provided in accordance with the standard scope of practice for Geriatric Psychiatrists in Florida.
Dr. Daniel Spoto is dedicated to partnering with older adults and their families to achieve their unique health objectives. The following examples illustrate how compassionate care can make a tangible difference in a patient's life:
- With guidance from a compassionate professional, a senior felt empowered to reduce their alcohol consumption, leading to a more peaceful and restful night's sleep. The family reported a noticeable improvement in their loved one's overall well-being and a greater sense of security in the home.
- With the support of a personalized treatment plan, a senior felt a noticeable decrease in depressive symptoms, regaining the ability to reconnect with loved ones and participate in activities they enjoyed.
- Following therapy sessions, a senior felt less overwhelmed by daily stressors, and their family reported a noticeable decrease in arguments and tension at home.
These scenarios are illustrative examples of positive health outcomes. Individual results vary and depend on many factors specific to each person. He will work with you to define and achieve your personal health goals.
- Primary Location:
Practice
3801 E Highway 98 Ste 100100, Port St. Joe, FL, 32456
Phone: (850) 229-5752
View on Map
- HCA Florida St. Lucie Hospital Port St. Lucie (Residency Hospital)
- American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology (Psychiatry)
Here are answers to some common questions about Geriatric Psychiatric care with Dr. Daniel Spoto:
- What is the difference between a Psychiatrist and a Psychologist?
- Dr. Spoto, a psychiatrist, is a medical doctor who can prescribe medications. Psychologists, on the other hand, have doctoral degrees in psychology and specialize in talk therapy and testing, but are not able to prescribe medication. Often, psychiatrists and psychologists work together to provide comprehensive care.
- How do you make sure a new psychiatric medication won't interfere with my other medications?
- Dr. Spoto has extensive training in how medications interact. A thorough review of all current medications is a core part of his practice. He works closely with your primary care doctor and other specialists to ensure any new treatment is safe and effective.
- I have anxiety but I'm worried about taking tranquilizers like Xanax or Valium.
- We understand your concern about taking benzodiazepines. These medications are used very cautiously in older adults due to potential risks. Fortunately, there are many other effective and safer long-term options for anxiety, such as antidepressants and therapy. Our goal is to manage your anxiety safely and effectively.
- What is TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation)?
- TMS is a modern, non-invasive treatment for depression. It uses focused magnetic pulses to gently stimulate areas of the brain underactive in depression, similar to an MRI. The procedure is done in our office while you are awake and comfortable, and you can return to your normal activities immediately afterward.
- Do you only prescribe medication, or do you also provide therapy?
- Dr. Spoto provides both medication management and psychotherapy. Many of the best treatment plans for mental health conditions in older adults involve both medication and therapy. This integrated approach helps address the biological and emotional aspects of the condition.
- I've felt 'down' for a while, but isn't depression just a normal part of getting older?
- Persistent sadness is not a normal part of aging. Late-life depression is a treatable medical condition, not a personal failing. Symptoms like loss of interest, poor sleep, and low energy can be effectively managed with treatments, restoring a sense of well-being.
- I thought Bipolar Disorder was a condition for younger people. Can it start later in life?
- Bipolar disorder can indeed develop later in life. Managing it in older adults requires specialized knowledge due to potential medication interactions and co-existing health conditions. Dr. Spoto has experience diagnosing and safely managing this condition in the geriatric population.
- Are psychiatric medications addictive? I'm worried about taking them.
- It's understandable to worry about medication addiction. While some psychiatric medications can cause physical dependence, most modern antidepressants and mood stabilizers are not addictive. For anxiety, some medications can be habit-forming, but Dr. Spoto will discuss non-addictive options and prioritize your safety.
13000 Bruce B Downs Blvd
Tampa FL 33612
Phone: (813) 972-2000
Dr. Daniel Spoto, MD is regulated by the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice) in Florida and is licensed by The Florida Board of Medicine.
National Provider Identifier (NPI): 1306831672
Registration can typically be verified through The Florida Board of Medicine website or by direct inquiry.
The information on this profile, provided by infoaging.org, is for general informational purposes and to help you connect with healthcare partners for yourself or a loved one. It does not constitute direct medical advice from the provider named. Geriatric Psychiatrists like Dr. Daniel Spoto are skilled in helping seniors and their families navigate their health journey. For urgent or life-threatening emergencies, please call 911 or visit the nearest emergency department. Always consult with a qualified medical professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your care plan.