Lisa Seyfried

Lisa Seyfried, M.D. serves as Clinical Associate Professor in the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Michigan Medical School. She holds significant administrative roles as Associate Chair for Clinical & Administrative Affairs and Director of Hospital and Community Services within the department.

Dr. Seyfried's educational background includes an M.D. from the University of Michigan Medical School, with undergraduate degrees (B.S. and B.F.A.) from the University of Michigan College of LS&A and School of Art. She completed her Residency in Adult Psychiatry at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, followed by a Postdoctoral Clinical Fellowship in Affective Disorders at the same institution, and a Postdoctoral Research Fellowship at the University of Michigan.

Her primary research interests focus on Psychoncology and Psychosomatic Medicine (Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry), with significant contributions to the understanding of dementia care, particularly regarding the risks associated with antipsychotic medications in elderly patients. Her work has demonstrated that antipsychotics significantly increase mortality risk in dementia patients, with number needed to harm ranging from 26-50 depending on the specific medication (haloperidol: 26, risperidone: 27, olanzapine: 40, quetiapine: 50). This research has had substantial clinical impact, influencing medication practices for dementia patients.

Analysis of Dr. Seyfried's publication history reveals a strong focus on geriatric psychiatry, particularly the intersection of dementia, neuropsychiatric symptoms, and medication safety. Her work spans clinical assessment methodology, medical education (particularly DSM-5 implementation), decision-making capacity in elderly patients, and the epidemiology of addiction. A significant portion of her research examines the risks and benefits of psychotropic medications in vulnerable elderly populations, with emphasis on evidence-based practice.

Dr. Seyfried has made substantial contributions to medical education through her work on clinical skills evaluation and teaching materials, particularly regarding the implementation of DSM-5 diagnostic criteria. Her collaborative approach is evident in numerous multi-institutional studies examining emergency department utilization patterns among dementia patients and the management of neuropsychiatric symptoms in various care settings.