Dr. Hernandez is from Corpus Christi, Texas. He began overseeing South Padre Island’s medical operations in late November 2020. He earned his bachelor’s in biomedical engineering from Northwestern University and his doctorate in medicine from Indiana University. Dr. Hernandez completed his residency in general adult psychiatry at Scott and White Memorial Hospital at Texas A&M College of Medicine. He is Board-Certified in Adult Psychiatry and holds a Certification for Buprenorphine Treatment through Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services. He has years of hands-on experience working in various settings, from substance abuse to primary psychiatry, to owning and operating his private practice. As Medical Director and Psychiatrist, Dr. Hernandez will be supervising and collaborating closely with our nurse practitioners to provide the day-to-day medical and psychiatric services to our patients.
What brought you to the field of addiction treatment? What brought you to Origins?
Substance use disorders are prominent throughout the spectrum of psychiatric treatment settings. Addictions significantly impact individual and family systems. Addiction medicine is a vital aspect of wellness, including addressing the mind, body, and spirit. Working with Origins offers the opportunity to focus on these needs often overlooked in other treatment settings.
If there was only one thing you could tell us about working within your specialty area, what would it be?
Mental health is too often not talked about but is ubiquitous. We all need to continue to reduce the stigma associated with mental health and reduce barriers to treatment.
What have you learned through your experience working in treatment?
Fundamental needs remain true in treating those with addictions or mental illness, including the need to be treated with compassion and respect.
Do you hold any credentials or certifications?
I am a licensed physician with the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology Certification. I have the American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) waiver for Buprenorphine. I am also a member of the American Psychiatric Association and attend their annual meetings.
What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?
It is important to maintain a balance between work and family life. Keeping a perspective of goals, including personal, family, and work, is paramount. We have to take care of ourselves so that we can take care of others. I spend as much time as I can with my family. I also find fly-fishing relaxing.
Origins Recovery Center is a well-known care provider offering a range of treatment programs targeting the recovery from substance use, mental health issues, and beyond. Our primary mission is to provide a clear path to a life of healing and restoration. We offer renowned clinical care for addiction and have the compassion and professional expertise to guide you toward lasting sobriety. For information on our programs, call us today: 561-841-1019.
