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Cynthia Rutherford, DO is a dedicated medical professional with over 27 years in family medicine and psychiatry. A graduate of Western University Health Sciences, she earned her Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine and a Master of Science in Health Professions Education. Her move to work in psychiatry was inspired by her early work as a family physician. “I realized my patients struggled to make life-changing health decisions, even when facing life-threatening conditions,” she recalls. “This led me to explore the deeper causes of behavior and retrain as a psychiatrist to better serve them.”
She has held leadership roles in the U.S. Air Force, including Medical Director of Mental Health and Chief of Medical Staff. Her dedication has earned her numerous honors that include The Meritorious Service Medal from the United States Air Force, where she holds the rank of Lt. Colonel, and recognition as one of America’s Top Family Doctors.
Dr. Rutherford specializes in depressive illnesses, trauma, and anxiety disorders. She believes in the healing power of empathy, stating, “Speaking emotional injuries from the past aloud to a non-judgmental third party can begin the healing process.” She is a strong proponent for telemedicine, calling it “one of the greatest advances in the practice of medicine.” Dr. Rutherford explains, “It allows clinicians to provide care to remote patients, offers more convenience with scheduling and is a more efficient way to deliver healthcare services.”
ADHD - Skill-building and support around organizational challenges, distracted attention, procrastination; building and maintaining healthy routines and structure
Anxiety - Coping with excessive worry, nervousness, or stress; intense discomfort in social settings (social anxiety); sudden and intense feelings of panic (panic disorder)
Bipolar disorder - Developing coping and preventive strategies to stabilize extreme mood swings, including manic and depressive episodes; increasing effective strategies to regulate emotions and maintain a healthy daily routine
Borderline personality disorder - Increasing insight into relational patterns and destructive behaviors; development of coping strategies for uncomfortable emotions or situations; skills for emotional identification and regulation.
Depression - Providing support and promoting healing of hopelessness, low motivation and energy, sadness, irritability, sleep disturbance, and loss of interest and pleasure in life
Trauma - Coping and healing after threatening or scary events, such as witnessing accidents or experiencing sexual, verbal, emotional, or physical abuse
Small steps make a big difference. Start by connecting with Cynthia Rutherford today.