Clinician Spotlight: Dr. Matthew Gerenz

Dr. Matthew Gerenz’s parents built their careers in mental health, so his interest in the human mind started early. 

“From a young age, I was exposed to many of these topics, as well as an attitude of compassion and understanding of others,” he said. “I have always wanted to help people and found that I felt fulfilled when I could help support those close to me. I became fascinated with the human mind, which merged with my interests in helping others and clinical science to match perfectly with psychiatry.”

Dr. Gerenz resonates with Happier Living's emphasis on the holistic approach and healing of the mind and body to achieve a better sense of wellness. “I believe that we as human beings are much more complicated than diagnoses and prescriptions. In order to address someone’s needs, it is important to explore their physical health, emotional health, spiritual health, and social health - just to name a few,” he said, adding that Happier Living’s P.E.R.Fi.C system allows him to collaborate with clients on their unique needs and come up with a plan together to achieve their goals. 

He appreciates that at Happier Living he is able to meet with his patients weekly and for 40 minutes. “This allows for a comprehensive and thorough evaluation and to build deep connections with clients,” he said. “I also like the collaboration with other psychiatrists, NPs and therapists to make sure that we are providing the best quality of care.”

Dr. Gerenz builds deep connections with his clients by entering each visit with warmth, openness, honesty, and transparency. “I want to create an environment in which people feel safe, respected, and understood without feeling judged or rushed,” he said. “Some of the best compliments I have received from past clients have been that they feel comfortable telling me some of the most intimate parts of their lives, and that they felt that they could connect to me because I was genuine and showed parts of my personality.” 

His areas of expertise include integrative adult psychiatry as well as psychodynamic psychotherapy and mindfulness-based stress reduction. “This means that I can use my knowledge and skills in traditional adult psychiatry and psychotherapy, as well as incorporate elements of mind-body medicine, functional medicine, nutrition, sleep and exercise, spirituality, as well as non-western models of medicine such as traditional Chinese medicine into a treatment plan,” he said.

When he’s not working, Dr. Gerenz spends time with his wife, the thing that makes him happiest, he says. “Together, we enjoy traveling, cooking and eating at restaurants, singing karaoke, and relaxing with our cat,” he said. He also enjoys exercise and practicing yoga as well as connecting with family and friends, spending time outdoors, playing acoustic guitar and learning Filipino. 

‍

Connect with a Happier Living clinician like Dr. Matthew Gerenz today and take the first step on your journey to a happier, healthier you.

‍