Psychiatry is among the most fascinating disciplines not only in medicine but in the larger field of science and humanities where psychiatric theories and practice have exerted enormous cultural influence. Psychoanalysis, behavioral psychology, cognitive neuroscience, neurobiology, psychopharmacology, and clinical phenomenology are only some of the exciting intellectual and scientific domains that are integral to this branch of medicine. The past 50 years have witnessed extraordinary progress in charting and delineating a modern taxonomy of psychiatric diseases together with the discoveries of powerful new tools of investigation and new modalities of treatment. More than at any time in history individuals with psychiatric illness are able to find relief in effective and humane treatments. Advances in neurobiology, imaging technology, genomics, pharmacology, and behavioral science will inform clinical practice in the future.

At Stony Brook the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Science is dedicated to providing state-of-the-art clinical care, and excellent educational programs, at the same time that we contribute to the advancement of knowledge. On behalf of our faculty and staff I am pleased to welcome you to explore our programs and to contact us with any questions you may have.