Clinician

Daniel Mierlak

MD

I am a board-certified addiction psychiatrist with over 25 years of experience providing consultation and treatment to individuals struggling with drug and alcohol addictions. I combine evidence-based behavioral therapies, psychotherapy, and medication management to help patients overcome addiction. In my practice, I have seen how often realistic and hopeful paths to recovery are buried under misinformation, stigma, and shame around the subject of substance use. Addressing and overcoming these obstacles directly with patients and their families is a vital part of my consultation and treatment process.

What should I expect in our first session?

In our first session, I’ll be getting to know you and asking questions about your history, present concerns, and treatment goals. I know there are many paths that lead to substance abuse issues, and likewise many paths out. I take a curious, thorough, and nonjudgmental approach to understanding your individual situation in order to find a treatment avenue that works for you.

How do you describe your therapeutic approach?

I tailor my approach to the individual patient. This might include any combination of psychotherapy, behavioral therapies, medication management, and support and education for the patient’s family and loved ones.

What’s the most rewarding part of your job?

Helping people regain control of their lives and witnessing that transformation. It’s incredibly fulfilling to watch someone move from despair to hope, and ultimately to stability and thriving.

What inspired you to get into counseling?

My background in neuroscience reflects my long-time curiosity about the relationship of the brain to human behavior, but it was my clinical experiences that showed me firsthand the profound impact compassionate, non-shaming, evidence-based care can have on people struggling with addiction and substance use issues.

What’s something your clients might be surprised to learn about you?

I’m an avid hiker and love exploring the outdoors. I also love live music and enjoy catching concerts whenever I get the chance.

Experience and Accolades

  • Former Unit Chief and Director for hospital-based addiction programs at Bellevue Hospital and St. Luke’s-Roosevelt Hospital, respectively
  • Published original research on neuroscience, addiction psychiatry, and HIV psychiatry
  • Served as Chief Resident during psychiatric residency at Payne Whitney Clinic
  • Author of two memoirs about experiences in the psychiatry field
  • Regularly involved in educational initiatives to reduce stigma and misinformation about substance use disorders

Pronouns

He/Him

Languages

English

Education

PhD in neuroscience (SUNY Health Science Center at Brooklyn), Addiction Psychiatry Fellowship (NYU Medical Center)

Works With

Adults, Families

Licenses and Certifications

Board-certified in addiction psychiatry

Specialties

Substance use disorders, behavioral therapies, psychopharmacology

Style

Interested in working with Daniel Mierlak?

Experience and Accolades

  • Former Unit Chief and Director for hospital-based addiction programs at Bellevue Hospital and St. Luke’s-Roosevelt Hospital, respectively
  • Published original research on neuroscience, addiction psychiatry, and HIV psychiatry
  • Served as Chief Resident during psychiatric residency at Payne Whitney Clinic
  • Author of two memoirs about experiences in the psychiatry field
  • Regularly involved in educational initiatives to reduce stigma and misinformation about substance use disorders

Get in touch

We provide personalized, hands-on care

Reach out to us using any of the contacts below or our general contact form.