Tom Linde, MSW
Family Medicine, Mental Health
Philosophy of care: The "mind-body connection" is something of a misnomer - not only are they both aspects of one system, so too is our behavior and social environment. Care is best, and easier, when we adopt this view.
Also, what is good for the patient - true, authentic, empathic acknowledgement and meaningful connection - is also good for the physician: Your work is more effective, gratifying and sustainable.
Finally, your work is hard. As they say, when in medicine, you could miss half the fun in life. But if not in medicine, you miss the other half.
Joined Kaiser Permanente: 1990
Education: Bachelor's degree in psychology, Antioch College, Ohio, 1983; Master of Social Work, University of Washington, Seattle, 1987
Advanced training: Special training in family therapy and cognitive-behavioral therapy
Certifications: Credentialed with The American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy and Association for Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies
Personal interests: I enjoy travel, soccer, biking, white-water kayaking, great food and strong coffee.
Statement: I was born and raised in Japan, and worked in multiple odd jobs and locations prior to college. I was with my wife through her medical schooling and family medicine residency, and I love seeing the rewards and challenges in her work. We have two grown children. See www.tomlinde.com for more about my philosophy and methods. Finally, I manage the Kaiser Permanente Medical Group Well-being Program, providing counseling to our medical staff