About Dr. Gonzalez

I am honored to say I received my formal training in psychotherapy and medication management at the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) Neuropsychiatric Institute and Hospital where I completed my Residency in Psychiatry. As a UCLA NPI&H resident I was immersed in the most comprehensive and eclectic approach to the understanding of mental illness that incorporated neuroscience, evidence-based medicine, and psychodynamics. The training was invaluable and it is the foundation of the last 20 years of my career as a physician. Also, I am board certified in Psychiatry and Forensic Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology.

 

Prior to UCLA I earned my Medical Doctorate from the University of Texas Medical School at Houston.  The medical school is in the Texas Medical Center with all of its wondrous research institutions, world-renowned hospitals, and brilliant minds. Having access to all those resources was a privilege.

 

I am a native Texan born and raised in Brownsville, Texas. I received my Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Texas at Austin where I was a proud member of the Longhorn Band.

 

After several years in clinical and forensic practice I felt it was important to continue my understanding of the business of healthcare. I earned a Masters of Business Administration in 2002 from the University of Texas Pan American. With that expanded level of expertise I have held several administrative positions in healthcare systems and insurance companies while continuing to see patients.

 

One of my most satisfying and impactful roles as a physician leader is Six Sigma Master Black Belt. I was trained in Six Sigma theory and application by General Electric Healthcare Performance Solutions. As one of a handful of Physician Master Black Belts in the country, I have been able to drive and sustain life-saving advances at the bedside while establishing a culture of data-driven decision making and accountability at several of the institutions where I worked and consulted. I continue to consult on Six Sigma quality programs today.

 

I also consult on the design and implementation of High-Risk Population Management programs. When I worked for Cigna HealthSpring as a Senior Medical Director, I was responsible for the day-to-day operations of a program I helped design that coordinated the care of the sickest mentally ill and medically frail. That program helped patients live more independently and helped families come together. The program won the Making a Difference Award sponsored by the Medicaid Health Plans of America, and it also saved money.

 

For the last five years I served as a Physician Surveyor for The Joint Commission under the Comprehensive Accreditation Manual for Hospitals.  I surveyed medical/surgical hospitals as well as psychiatric institutions. Surveying hospitals for Joint Commission was inspirational. I was able to share with hospitals my knowledge of the standards, offer consultation on compliance, guide on quality programs and the Six Sigma methodology, and collaborate with the most experienced physicians, nurses, and executives in the country.

 

I am honored to be of service, please let me know how I can help.