Age Defying Experts South Florida

21/06/2025

Functional Psychiatry: The Missing Link for High-Achievers Who Want More Than a Diagnosis

By Dr. Daniela Chetan, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC, FNP-BC, Functional Medicine Certified

If you’re a high-performing professional, executive, first responder, or just someone who's always “on,” chances are you’ve been told your anxiety, burnout, or brain fog is “just stress” or needs a quick fix, usually in the form of a prescription.

But what if the real cause wasn’t just in your mind… but in your body?

Welcome to functional psychiatry, where mental health isn’t just treated with medication and talk therapy, but through a deep dive into how your brain and body work together.

What Is Functional Psychiatry?

Functional psychiatry is an integrative approach to mental health that looks beyond symptoms to identify root causes. It blends evidence-based psychiatry with functional medicine principles, including:

Hormone analysis (think cortisol, thyroid, estrogen, testosterone, DHEA)

Nutritional and metabolic health (are you fueling your brain right?)

Sleep quality and circadian rhythm

Gut-brain connection (yes, your gut bugs can affect your mood)

Chronic inflammation, stress, and toxic burden

Rather than just diagnosing and prescribing, we ask: Why is this happening and what needs to change to restore balance?

Who Is It For?

If you're a high-achieving individual who feels exhausted, wired-but-tired, anxious, or like your brain just isn’t performing the way it used to… functional psychiatry may be exactly what you need.

This approach is especially effective for those struggling with:

Anxiety

Depression

Bipolar disorder

ADHD

Addiction recovery support

PTSD and trauma

Chronic stress & burnout

Sleep disorders

Hormonal imbalances (perimenopause, menopause, low testosterone)

Brain fog, fatigue, and lack of motivation

How Does It Work?

Step one is a comprehensive evaluation, we go far beyond checklists. You’ll complete in-depth assessments and lab testing to map your mental and physical health.

From there, we co-create a personalized treatment plan that may include:

Psychiatric medication management (if appropriate)

Bioidentical hormone therapy (if appropriate)

Nutraceuticals and targeted supplements

Lifestyle and nutrition guidance

Therapy or coaching for mental resilience and stress regulation

We’ll monitor progress, make adjustments, and track actual outcomes, not just whether you're “coping,” but whether you're thriving.

Why Hormones Matter in Mental Health

Hormones are chemical messengers that directly impact your mood, energy, motivation, and cognitive function. When they’re off whether it’s low testosterone, cortisol dysfunction, estrogen imbalance, or thyroid issues, your mental health pays the price.

This is why in my practice, hormone therapy is often a game-changer for clients who’ve “tried everything” and still don’t feel like themselves.

Expected Outcomes

My clients come to me not just to feel better but to perform better, think clearly, sleep deeply, and feel emotionally steady without sacrificing their ambition or identity.

With functional psychiatry, they report:

Improved focus and mental clarity

Better emotional regulation

Decreased anxiety and irritability

Restful sleep and better energy

Renewed motivation and productivity

Balanced mood throughout hormonal transitions

Greater resilience and long-term wellness

Ready to stop managing symptoms and start feeling like yourself again?

Let’s get to the root of what’s really going on so you can reclaim your clarity, energy, and emotional balance.

📍Dr. Daniela Chetan, DNP, PMHNP-BC, FNP-BC

🖥️ Telepsychiatry & Functional Medicine Services

📞 Call or Text: 786-505-4423

📧 Email: dr.chetanpmhnp@gmail.com

🌐 www.agedefyingexpertssouthflorida.com

Private. Personalized. Proven.

Because high performers deserve high-level care.

13/06/2025

31/10/2024

Living with a Covert Narcissist

Managing a relationship with a covert, passive-aggressive narcissist can be incredibly challenging, as they often use subtle tactics that are difficult to identify but can leave you feeling invalidated and exhausted. Unlike overt narcissists who display arrogance and entitlement openly, covert narcissists may appear humble or even self-sacrificing while harboring deep resentment, envy, or a need for control. They might express their hostility through passive-aggressive behaviors, such as backhanded compliments, silent treatment, or playing the victim, which makes their intentions difficult to pin down. Recognizing these behaviors as manipulative is the first step in understanding the dynamics of the relationship and protecting your emotional well-being.

Effective communication with a covert narcissist requires careful navigation, as direct confrontation often triggers defensiveness or victimhood rather than openness. When addressing issues, it’s helpful to stick to "I" statements that focus on your feelings without placing direct blame, as this can reduce their tendency to feel attacked and respond with deflection. Another useful strategy is to set clear, consistent boundaries around acceptable behaviors. For instance, if they often resort to silent treatment, communicate that this behavior is unhelpful and set limits on how long you’ll wait for them to engage constructively. This way, you maintain your standards for respectful interaction and avoid being drawn into their emotional games.

Maintaining self-awareness and emotional resilience is crucial in these relationships. A covert narcissist often seeks to control your emotions subtly, attempting to elicit guilt or self-doubt to keep you invested in the relationship. Practicing self-reflection, recognizing your emotional triggers, and seeking outside perspectives can help you understand when they’re manipulating you. Engaging in self-care practices, such as journaling, therapy, or talking with trusted friends, can reinforce your sense of self-worth and prevent you from internalizing the covert narcissist's criticism or blame-shifting tactics.

Ultimately, learning to manage a relationship with a covert narcissist involves accepting that they may never change. Prioritize your emotional health by setting limits and cultivating a strong support network. While it can be tempting to change their behavior, true progress in these relationships often comes from adjusting your own responses and maintaining control over how much influence they have in your life. By staying mindful of their passive-aggressive tendencies, focusing on clear communication, and nurturing your emotional independence, you can maintain balance and avoid the psychological toll that these relationships often impose.

26/10/2024

Dr. Daniela Chetan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
https://maps.app.goo.gl/tccD9LYCALL8eGB97
Providing telemedicine services
Accepting 22+ medical insurances
Call to make an appointment at 786-505-4423

Pre-menopause and Menopause

As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I offer a range of supportive interventions tailored to the unique needs of women experiencing menopause, helping them to achieve better mental and emotional well-being during this transition:

1. Psychotherapy and Counseling
Supportive Therapy: Offering a safe space for women to express their emotions, address concerns about aging, body image, or changes in relationships, and receive support in managing stressors.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): This evidence-based approach is effective for managing anxiety and depression related to menopause. It helps patients challenge negative thought patterns and develop healthier coping strategies.
Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR): Mindfulness practices can help reduce stress and improve sleep quality, making them particularly beneficial for women dealing with mood swings or sleep disturbances.

2. Medication Management
Antidepressants: For women experiencing moderate to severe depression or anxiety, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) can be effective. These medications can also help alleviate hot flashes in some cases.
Anxiolytics: Short-term use of medication for anxiety may be considered for managing panic attacks or severe anxiety symptoms, ensuring a balanced approach to treatment.
Sleep Aids: Non-addictive sleep aids or melatonin supplements may be considered for those struggling with insomnia, allowing for better rest and reducing fatigue.

3. Holistic and Lifestyle Approaches
Lifestyle Modifications: I work with women to establish routines that promote sleep hygiene, regular exercise, and balanced nutrition, which are essential for managing menopause symptoms like fatigue and mood changes.
Supplements and Nutritional Support: Discussing the use of supplements such as omega-3 fatty acids, magnesium, or adaptogens like ashwagandha can support stress management. I can also help guide patients on the safe use of herbal supplements that may alleviate symptoms.
Mind-Body Techniques: Introducing practices such as deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, or yoga can help women manage stress and improve overall well-being.

4. Collaborative Care and Referrals
Hormone Therapy Referrals: For patients who may benefit from hormone replacement therapy (HRT), I can collaborate with endocrinologists or gynecologists to ensure they receive comprehensive care.
Coordination with Primary Care Providers: Staying in communication with a patient’s primary care provider allows for a well-rounded approach to managing the physical and emotional aspects of menopause.

26/10/2024

Dr. Daniela Chetan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
https://maps.app.goo.gl/tccD9LYCALL8eGB97
Providing telemedicine services
Accepting 22+ medical insurances
Call to make an appointment at 786-505-4423

Compassionate Space for Women Experiencing Menopause
or Pre-menopause

The journey through pre/menopause can be isolating for many women, but with empathetic, comprehensive care, I aim to empower them during this time. I prioritize understanding each patient’s unique experience, tailoring treatment plans that address their specific challenges. This includes recognizing the impact of menopause on relationships, work, and self-esteem and helping women regain a sense of balance and control over their mental and emotional health.

By focusing on a holistic approach, combining evidence-based therapies with lifestyle changes, and providing a compassionate ear, I strive to make the menopause transition more manageable, helping women embrace this new phase of life with resilience and confidence.

14/10/2024

October is Breast Cancer and Mental Health Awareness Month!

14/10/2024

Breast Cancer Awareness Month and Mental Health Awareness Month
October is both Breast Cancer Awareness Month and a time to highlight the importance of mental health for those facing the emotional toll of a breast cancer diagnosis. Breast cancer not only affects physical health but also has a profound impact on mental well-being. Many patients experience heightened anxiety, depression, panic attacks, insomnia, trauma, or even PTSD. As a psychiatric provider, I understand the emotional challenges that come with a cancer diagnosis. It’s crucial to remind those affected that they don’t have to face these struggles alone. Supportive care, which includes mental health counseling and sometimes medication, can be an essential part of their healing journey.

I specialize in addressing mental health conditions like anxiety, depression, and trauma in adults 18 and older. My goal is to offer a safe space for breast cancer patients to talk about their emotions and mental health challenges, while providing personalized care that may include medication when necessary. By collaborating with oncologists and other healthcare providers, I strive to help breast cancer patients manage their mental health, ensuring they receive holistic care that addresses both their physical and emotional needs. If you or your patients need support, I am here to offer mental health services with compassion and understanding.

Dr. Daniela Chetan, Your Psychiatry Provider
Accepting 22+ insurance carriers and cash pay
Phone number: 786-505-4423
https://g.co/kgs/zUxuz1K
www.Agedefyingexpertssouthflorida.com

27/09/2024

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063600970725

Brain Health in a functional medicine way

04/04/2024

The Connection Between Elevated Insulin and Cancer and How to Effectively Lower It

Growing research has shown that higher blood insulin can result in increased cancer risk.
Because insulin is a growth factor, high insulin levels trigger rapid cell division and can cause cells to lose control of their DNA regulator genes leading to increased potential for tumor progression and cancer metastases.
High levels of insulin are now recognized as important contributors to the development and progression of many kinds of cancer.
The risk of developing the most common form of breast cancer by consuming a diet rich in readily digested sugars and carbohydrates increases the risk by 36% to 41%. A consistent finding across a broad spectrum of common malignancies reveals that higher blood insulin results in increased cancer risk.
For example, prostate cancer incidence is 2.55-fold greater in men with the highest blood insulin levels.
Elevated insulin levels have been associated with an increased cancer risk as well as with aggressive and metastatic cancer types characterized by a poor prognosis.
Recommended Labs to Have Your Doctor Order:
Fasting Insulin--004333--Optimal-2.0-5.0
Hemoglobin A1c--001453--Optimal-4.5.-5.2

Elevated Insulin and Common Human Cancers

Insulin levels have been implicated in at least seven of the most common human malignancies.
1: Colon Cancer
A study found that insulin levels raise the risk of having precancerous growths called adenomas by 17% to 42%, with higher risk associated with higher levels.
2: Gastric (stomach) Cancer
Gastric (stomach) cancer risk is 69% higher for people with blood insulin levels in the middle third, compared with those in the bottom third of results, and 101% higher in those with the top one-third of insulin levels.
3: Breast CancerWomen with higher insulin levels are at a 2- to 3-fold increased risk for breast cancer, compared to those with lower levels.
4: Endometrial (uterine lining) Cancer
Risk increases with higher insulin levels almost 10-fold for early premalignant changes in endometrial cells, 8.5-fold for later premalignant changes, 18-fold for true precancerous lesions, and a shocking 45-fold for type I endometrial cancer.
Elevated serum insulin levels are also associated with increased risk for ovarian cancer.
5: Prostate Cancer
Men with the highest blood insulin levels in one study showed a 2.55-fold increased risk of prostate malignancy compared with those having the lowest levels. And men with the highest level of insulin had a 5.62-fold increase in the risk of having locally advanced tumors than those with lower levels, while the most insulin-resistant subjects' risk of advanced cancer was more than 3-fold increased.
6: Liver CancerThose with the highest insulin levels have an approximate 2.4-fold increase in the risk of developing liver cancer.
7: Brain Cancer
Studies suggests that glioblastomas are sensitive to the mitogenic functions of insulin, thus significant insulin exposure imposes risks to glioblastoma patients. Of special interest, dual inhibition of insulin receptor and IGF1R exhibits promise for treating glioblastoma.

How to Reduce Insulin Levels
1: Eat a low glycemic plant based/Mediterranean Diet. Numerous studies reveal animal protein intake intensifies insulin resistance whereas plant-based foods enhance insulin sensitivity.
2: Prioritize physical activity
Research has shown that exercise training can reduce fasting insulin levels and insulin resistance in adults with and without type 2 diabetes.
3: Try adding cinnamon to foods and beverages
Recent studies suggest that both individuals living with insulin resistance and those with relatively normal insulin levels who supplement with cinnamon may experience enhanced insulin sensitivity and decreased insulin levels.
4: Try adding Apple cider vinegar (ACV) to your daily diet
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) may help prevent insulin and blood sugar spikes after eating, particularly when consumed with high carbohydrate foods. One review found that consuming 2–6 teaspoons of apple cider vinegar (ACV) daily appears to improve glycemic response to carbohydrate-rich meals.
5: Consider intermittent fasting
Research also suggests intermittent fasting may help reduce insulin levels as effectively as or more effectively than daily calorie restriction.
6: Increase soluble fiber intake
Soluble fiber provides a number of health benefits, including aiding in weight loss and reducing blood sugar levels.
7: Eat more fatty fish
Studies have shown that the omega-3s in fatty fish like wild salmon, sardines, mackerel, herring, and anchovies. may also help reduce insulin resistance.
8: Reduce stress
Stress encourages the body to go into “fight-or-flight” mode, which stimulates the production of stress hormones that break down glycogen, a form of stored sugar, into glucose. Ongoing stress keeps your stress hormone levels high increasing blood sugar reducing insulin sensitivity. See a psychiatrist and a therapist to start therapy and medications/supplements if sometimes stress in uncontrollable.
9: Lose a few pounds
Excess weight, especially belly fat, reduces insulin sensitivity and increases the risk of type 2 diabetes by making hormones that promote insulin resistance in the muscles and liver.
Courtesy of Ronald Grisanti D.C., D.A.B.C.O., DACBN, MS, CFMP and Functional Medicine University
I am Dr. Daniela Chetan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and I provide online medication management and therapy for both children and adults for disorders such as anxiety, ADHD,
depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, panic disorder, OCD, trauma, sleep disorders, LGBTQIA+, eating disorders and more. I accept both major insurances (Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts, Cigna, Humana, Medicare, Humana Medicare, Oscar Health, Oxford, United Healthcare, Medicare) and cash pay ($275 initial 1 hour consultation and $175 follow-up visits). Feel free to contact me at 786-505-4423, Dr.chetanpmhnp@gmail.com or make an appointment at
https://headway.co/providers/daniela-chetan?utm_source=pem&utm_medium=direct_link&utm_campaign=47231

If you or a close friend or family member struggle with an emotional/mental disorder, feel free to contact me for a brief consultation to see if we can work together. I accept both major insurances (Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, Humana, Medicare, Humana Medicare, Oscar Health, Oxford, United Healthcare, Medicare) and cash pay ($275 initial 1 hour consultation and $175 follow-up visits). Feel free to contact me at 786-505-4423 or Dr.chetanpmhnp@gmail.com or make an appointment at
https://headway.co/providers/daniela-chetan?utm_source=pem&utm_medium=direct_link&utm_campaign=47231
I would be happy to support you, your family or someone you know on their journey to mental wellness!
Yours in health, Dr. Chetan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner

In the 12 years of clinical experience as a provider, I learned to care for my patients holistically, both mind and body. Whether you are seeking individual therapy, medication management, or a combination of both, I am committed to helping you achieve optimal mental health. I am here to offer yo...

28/12/2023

A Common Invisible Condition Found to Be Associated with Eight Diseases

What does the medical peer reviewed literature say may be at the root of the following diseases:
1. Metabolic Syndrome/Insulin Resistance/Diabetes
2. Cardiovascular Disease
3. Cancer
4. Obesity
5. Depression
6. Autoimmune Disease
7. Neurodegenerative disease (Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease)
8. Osteoporosis
9. Immunosenescence (the progressive decline in immune function with increasing age)
The Answer is:
INFLAMMATION
According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), about 67 percent of the world's population—that's three out of every five people—will DIE from a disease related to chronic inflammation.
Most doctors don't test for it. That is sad considering inflammation is commonly the driving force behind almost EVERY chronic condition you can think of… including multiple sclerosis (MS), heart disease, and cancer.
I want everyone to know that a few simple tests can tell you a whole lot about your level of inflammation and your overall health.
Chronic inflammation is the “silent” condition associated with almost every serious medical condition on the planet.
Chronic Systemic Inflammation is not like the typical acute inflammation that one can easily identify with pain and sometimes swelling. Chronic Inflammation is commonly a silent disease that slowly destroys your health. Again considering most doctors do not test for chronic inflammation, you may not even realize you suffer from it. Some signs of inflammation can turn up in the blood years—or even DECADES—before suffering one of the above diseases.
On the flip side, we know that reducing inflammation can in fact improve the clinical outcomes of the above diseases.
The dangers of inflammation are vast. And reining it in are of utmost importance for overall health.
So, let's look at how we can measure it (and keep track of it)—along with how we can fix it.
How to Test for Inflammation
There are three blood tests I recommend to gauge your overall inflammation levels.
The first is for C-reactive protein (CRP), an inflammatory protein produced by your liver. Levels tend to rise in response to inflammation.
In general, CRP scores are categorized accordingly:
• Less than 1.0 = Low risk
• 1.0-2.9 = Intermediate risk
• Greater than 3.0 = High risk
Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR). This test measures how quickly red blood cells settle into the bottom of a test tube. I like to see the ESR below 15.
The third test you should ask for is a fibrinogen blood test.
Fibrinogen is a sticky protein that promotes blood clots and affects blood viscosity (or “thickness”). And it's an acute phase reactant that will elevate with inflammation. I like to see a number below 300—anything higher points to inflammation.
The following are additional labs I commonly order to identify the inflammation load of a patient.
• Myeloperoxidase (MPO)
• Interleukin 6 (IL-6)
• Tumor Necrosis Factor
• Red Blood Cell Distribution width (RDW)- (optimal is 11.5- 14.4)
• Uric Acid- (optimal is