Meet Dr. Erika Kappes

Many of you said, "I want to meet the people running things in our community." So, I’ll be sharing some of the incredible faces I’m meeting from time to time— meet Dr. Erika Kappes: 👇

Background:

👋: Meet Dr. Erika Kappes, founder of District Psychiatry & Wellness. After years serving as an Army psychiatrist and then working in high-volume clinics, Dr. Erika Kappes opened her own practice to build something different. “I wanted a place that wasn’t just about medication. A place that integrated wellness, acupuncture, and modern psychiatry into something that actually helped people heal.” Based in the DC area, District Psychiatry & Wellness is now that place. A cozy, carefully designed space that blends Eastern and Western approaches to mental health.

Insight:

💡: “You're the captain of the ship. I'm just helping guide it.”

One of Dr. Erika’s specialties is helping people safely transition off psychiatric medications, something most patients don’t even realize is an option. “A lot of people think seeing a psychiatrist means someone’s just going to throw meds at them and sedate them. That’s not how we work,” she explained. She blends modern psychiatry with holistic wellness, helping patients build a personalized plan that fits their life. What stood out in our chat was how often people come in with misconceptions and leave with a plan that feels empowering, not intimidating.

Food for thought:

🧠: “People come in expecting a prescription. What they leave with is a plan.” Erika believes the right approach to mental health starts with listening. “So many people show up thinking they’re broken or that they’ll be judged for needing help,” she said. But the first step is often just making space. Her practice is designed to be warm, modern, and welcoming on purpose. “It’s not cold or clinical. I want people to feel safe enough to be honest, so we can actually figure out what’s going on together.” That collaborative approach is what turns a visit into a turning point.

Want to support? Head to their site and say hello.

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