James McDonough, MD

General Psychiatrist in Tavares & Winter Garden, FL

Advanced Behavioral Health Center

Education & Training

Dr. McDonough has been serving the Central Florida community since 2003. After graduating with a Bachelors degree in Biology from the University of Central Florida, he attended medical school at St. George's University School of Medicine. After medical school, Dr. McDonough completed his internship and residency at the Medical College of Virginia. He is board certified in psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology.

Professional Experience

In 2003 he moved back to Florida to join South Seminole Hospital's psychiatry department. He then joined Compass Research where he led clinical trials and played a role in the FDA approval of new medical and psychiatric treatments. He began working at Advanced Behavioral Health Center in the summer of 2015 where he treats a broad range of mental health issues for the adult population.

My Approach to Care

It's important to me that the care I provide is collaborative, caring, and professional. I have talked to people at all stages of life when they have been going through their best and worst times and can share that perspective with my patients. I value honest, compassionate communication.

I am a strong proponent of therapy as part of treatment and will often incorporate some therapeutic techniques into my visits with patients. I understand that sometimes we get depressed or anxious because of situations happening in our lives and will talk to you about this. I take time to understand the life circumstances that may be contributing to your symptoms, before prescribing medication.

It is important to me that you feel heard and understood and are given the space to talk freely and safely, without judgment. We regularly review how your medications are working and discuss adjustments when needed. I try to make one change to medications at a time so that we both can make careful notes of what works, what doesn't, what causes side effects, etc. Together, we focus on your priorities so each visit feels meaningful, so you don't feel rushed and can leave each visit feeling that something was accomplished and it was a good use of your time.

I enjoy traveling with my family and pop culture, including music, TV, and movies.