Featured Psychiatrist: David Dressler

A graduate of Reed College, Portland, OR, in 1956, Dr. Dressler completed his medical training at the University of Chicago School of Medicine in 1964, followed by an internship at the San Francisco General Hospital, San Francisco, CA (1964-1965) and a residency in psychiatry at the Strong Memorial Hospital, Rochester, NY (1965-1968). He then served as a fellow at the Yale University School of Medicine Department of Psychiatry in New Haven, CT (1968-1969). He joined the faculty as an assistant professor from 1969 to 1973, publishing 25 academic papers.

In 1973, Dr. Dressler became the first chief of psychiatry at the New Britain General Hospital, New Britain, CT, and an associate professor of psychiatry at the University of Connecticut School of Medicine. While there, he became a Certified Jungian Analyst training in New York City, leaving his position at the hospital in 1992 for a private practice in Woodbury, CT. He currently works from his home in Roxbury, CT.

In a career with many highlights, a particular moment of pride was his work with a female client over ten years. Suffering from severe early childhood trauma and serious health issues, she transformed herself from a suffering victim to a confident, competent employee of an insurance company handling million-dollar claims.

Utilizing his expertise in the field, Dr. Dressler recently authored "Guidelines for a Productive, Meaningful and Fulfilling Life: Practical Wisdom Gained from 50 Years of Clinical Practice and 80 Years of Life Experience and Self-Reflection." He maintains his affiliation with the American Psychiatric Association and has been honored as a distinguished life fellow.