Jennifer is currently accepting new patients and
generally has the soonest appointment availability.
For most new patients, we recommend scheduling with
Jennifer as the first choice.
Dr. Gabriella Farkas, MD, PhD
Limited Availability
Psychiatrist · MD, PhD
Dr. Farkas continues to see new patients on a more
limited basis. Patients specifically seeking an
appointment with Dr. Farkas may view her availability
in the scheduling portal.
On the scheduling screen, Jennifer Reilly will appear
first. Select your preferred clinician to continue
with available appointment times.
Expert consultation on existing treatment plans. Before you commit to a major medication change, a new diagnosis, or a course of treatment you're uncertain about — get an independent evaluation from an MD/PhD psychiatrist.
Full review of prior records, medications & diagnoses
✓
Independent diagnostic assessment
✓
Expert opinion on proposed treatment plan
✓
Alternative approaches if applicable
✓
Written consultation summary to share with providers
When to Seek a Second Opinion
Six reasons patients come to Dr. Farkas for a second opinion
❓
Uncertain About Your Diagnosis
Your diagnosis doesn't fully explain your symptoms, or you've received conflicting opinions from different providers. A fresh, rigorous evaluation can bring clarity.
💊
Major Medication Change Proposed
Your current provider recommends a significant change — starting a mood stabilizer, antipsychotic, or a complex medication combination — and you want independent expert verification.
🚫
Treatment Isn't Working
You've been in treatment for months or years without meaningful improvement. Something may have been missed — a diagnostic error, an overlooked medical contributor, or a suboptimal medication strategy.
⚡
Considering Advanced Interventions
You're being recommended TMS therapy, ketamine treatment, ECT, or other advanced interventions and want to understand whether you're truly a candidate.
👨⚕️
Lost Confidence in Current Provider
Appointments feel rushed, your concerns aren't being heard, or you haven't received a clear explanation of why your treatment is what it is. You deserve more.
🌍
Seeking Academic-Level Expertise
You want the caliber of opinion you'd get at an academic medical center — without the months-long wait or the need to travel to a major city. Dr. Farkas's telehealth makes this accessible.
What's Included
A thorough, independent evaluation
1
Records Review
Full review of prior psychiatric records, prior diagnoses, medication trials, doses, and durations. Dr. Farkas comes prepared with context.
2
Independent Evaluation
30–60 minute comprehensive evaluation conducted without bias toward the prior provider's conclusions. Fresh eyes, systematic approach.
3
Expert Opinion
Clear, direct opinion on whether the proposed diagnosis and treatment plan are appropriate — and if not, what Dr. Farkas would recommend instead.
4
Written Summary
A written consultation summary documenting findings and recommendations — suitable to share with your current or future providers.
Request a Second Opinion
In-person in Hilton Head Island, SC or via telehealth throughout SC and NY. Most consultations scheduled within 2–4 weeks.
Psychiatric Second Opinion Consultation | Complex Cases | Dr. Farkas
Quick Answer
A psychiatric second opinion is structured expert consultation for cases where treatment hasn't produced expected results, diagnosis is uncertain, or a treatment plan warrants independent review. Dr. Farkas provides written recommendations to patients and — with permission — to referring clinicians. Second opinions typically do not include ongoing prescribing.
Key Takeaways
A second opinion is a structured expert review when treatment isn't working, the diagnosis is uncertain, or a big decision is coming up.
It doesn't mean switching psychiatrists. Many people add it to their existing care team.
The review covers your history, current medications, prior treatments, and, with permission, records from past clinicians.
You receive written recommendations, which can be shared with your referring clinician with your permission.
Medically reviewed by Gabriella I. Farkas, MD PhD — Board-Certified Psychiatrist ·
Reviewed 2026-07-09 · MD/PhD Neuroscience · Zucker Hillside NIH Research Center
When treatment hasn't produced expected results, when diagnosis is uncertain, when a complex regimen warrants systematic review, or before a major treatment decision. Second opinions add rigor to important choices.
Does a second opinion mean switching psychiatrists?
Not necessarily. Many patients seek a second opinion to add expert input to their existing care team. With patient permission, Dr. Farkas communicates findings and recommendations to the referring psychiatrist.
What's included?
Comprehensive review of psychiatric history, current medications, prior treatments, and — with permission — records from prior clinicians. Written recommendations follow, typically within 1–2 weeks.
Call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline). Text HOME to 741741 for the Crisis Text Line. Call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room if you are in immediate danger.
