Dr. Ernestina Pelayo De Olivares, MD

Dr. Pelayo has been my doctor for several years. I started with her for med checks. Later, she helped me through the grief of losing my husband. She has always been caring and empathetic. She did something no other psychiatrist has done: she ordered blood tests to help determine if there were contributing factors to my depression. One she suspected was not present but another was. My treatment has been adjusted as a result. Dr. Pelayo has my full trust and confidence.

'Dr Pelayo prescribed quetiapine for my insomnia. I was not familiar with quetiapine but took it as prescribed. Quetiapine made my insomnia even worse and had terrible side effects. I then researched quetiapine and it turns out it is a powerful schizophrenia medication, and it is not recommended, nor is it approved, for insomnia. When I asked Dr Pelayo why she prescribed a schizophrenia medication for my insomnia, she changed the subject and would not answer my question. I don't believe Dr Pelayo has a competent grasp of basic medications used in psychiatry. I also don't believe she is trustworthy. '

Dr Pelayo prescribed quetiapine for my insomnia. I was not familiar with quetiapine but took it as prescribed. Quetiapine made my insomnia even worse and had terrible side effects. I then researched quetiapine and it turns out it is a powerful schizophrenia medication, and it is not recommended, nor is it approved, for insomnia. When I asked Dr Pelayo why she prescribed a schizophrenia medication for my insomnia, she changed the subject and would not answer my question. I don't believe Dr Pelayo has a competent grasp of basic medications used in psychiatry. I also don't believe she is trustworthy.

Was recommended to see Dr. Pelayo from my therapist, who has another client that had a good experience. Well my experience was not great. I found her to be incredibly dismissive and judgmental. Failed to recognize or focus on the suspected mental health conditions I suffer from to focus on a current life event I’m going through. Said things like, “I’m Mexican so I come at things from love.” As opposed to me a white person who doesn’t? Felt like an incredible waste of time and money ($200). I think the only good thing was that she switched a couple of my medications. Will be looking for an alternative doctor.

I’ve been a patient of Dr. Pelayo for a few years now and I can’t say enough good things about her. She is easy to talk to and has experience with a wide range of therapies and diagnosis - I myself am being treated for major depression, anxiety, borderline personality, PTSD, and I can honestly say that she has helped me a great deal. Also, her staff in the front is so kind and helpful, always going the extra mile to help out.

My experience with Dr. Pelayo has been outstanding. In my first visit she took the most thorough history on me that anyone has ever done. As a result she has been able to craft a treatment plan for me that is working well. She is very kind and compassionate and easy to talk to. Not only would I recommend her to friends, I have done so at least twice.

I've been going to Dr. Pelayo's office for years now and never have I felt she did not listen. Always ready with suggestions, treatment options and follow ups.