About ...
Manifest Psychiatry PLLC
My name is Dr. Donnesha Slider. I am a board certified Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist, and Adult Psychiatrist. I received my clinical training at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center and Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic. I have a background as a teacher, Neuroscientist, researcher, community board member, and pharmaceutical company research fellow. I currently work as the Physician Advisor for Allegheny County Department of Human Services, CYF, and Office of Behavioral Health. Lastly, I have experience in the use of spiritual modalities as a therapeutic tool when appropriate.
I mention my training and background because it has led to my unique approach to psychiatric care. I utilize my knowledge of the scientific basis of brain biology/anatomy from Neuroscience, the framework of evidenced based practice from research, my understanding of systems from my work in the community/ government, my teaching skills, and my appreciation of the holistic understanding of the “self,” in my care.
I start care with providing a foundation based on expert and evidenced based practice. Education is used to arm individuals with knowledge and a plan that allows them to gain wisdom through self exploration and experiences. If needed, medication is used as a tool that allows people to regain function and/or tolerate the work it takes to get better. Medication is a bridge to wellness, not a fix!
We then use a research like approach of gathering “data” to help make practical decisions and plans. Practical solutions include an understanding of the system, community, family, and individual. Overtime, we discover what works and abandon things that do not fit. We will sometimes prioritize truth from our personal learning experiences over “expert opinion.” This approach allows us to develop a path to wellness with a higher percentage of “victories” and more motivation to continue the journey. There is a series of cycles and life events that lead to evidence for medication needs/changes. These cycles also lead to practicing the basic skills needed to problem solve any concern. Overtime, I find that this approach gives people a sense of mastery and control over their lives. This approach also leads to people knowing what they truly want and need in life. At this point, medication is reduced or removed while people continue the journey toward appreciating their authentic selves.
I hope you can appreciate my dedication to true wellness. It is not good enough to be functional, or to “just get by in life”. Many clinics reach a therapeutic level with meds, and get people back to work/school. These services stop short of getting people to thrive. I strive to inspire people to truly know and accept all aspects of themselves. Wellness is not about never being upset, anxious, self critical, or hurt by others. Wellness is the ability to master the ups and downs of life, knowing that being imperfectly you is good enough. I believe that the services, expertise, education, and inspiration found at Manifest Psychiatry PLLC, can help any individual “know” themselves and Manifest Their True Potential.
About Me
My name is Dr. Donnesha Slider. I am a wife, sister, aunt, friend, mother of two, and a Psychiatrist. I thought a lot about what you would need to know to understand who I am as a person. I don’t think you need to know my accomplishments. Instead, I think it is more valuable to understand why I am trying to do more for the community.
I have always wanted to be a doctor, but never thought that it would be possible because of my life circumstances. I grew up poor and faced the same barriers that inner city youth must overcome in order to survive into adulthood. I am where I am today due to a random act of kindness. A friend made me apply to the University of Pittsburgh and paid for the application fee. He walked me to the mailbox and ensured that I mailed in the application immediately after class. A week later, I won a full academic scholarship. Two weeks after that, I applied for a research program for disadvantaged youth that randomly arrived in the mail. I needed the income from this program to truly afford college. Luckily, I was selected for this opportunity. That June, I showed up to a college I had never seen, in a city 5 hours away from home, with no clue what would happen next.
Random people, events and situations continued to pop up at critical points along my journey. I took advantage of each opportunity. I used the core values of my community to guide my choices and actions. I still do to this day. I value honesty, integrity, individuality, and a strong sense of community. My background taught me the importance of doing what was best for all, so that we all could survive. I know from experience that it sometimes takes a community for a single individual to thrive.
My motivation to do more comes from knowing that I am not the only one who is capable of reaching their true potential. Opportunities and access to information are needed to be successful. Access to a Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist is a rare resource. Not having access to my expertise, can limit a family’s or individual’s ability to be the best versions of themselves.
I encourage you to ask as many questions as you can. This resource will not be perfect, but your engagement will make it more useful. I know that you may not agree with everything I write. I welcome discourse as long as it is respectful and comes from your honest desire to learn. This resource is for general use and is not intended to replace medical care. Please keep in mind that my intent is to write with honesty and integrity, because we all deserve to manifest our true potential.