05/04/2026

Meet KPMA Foundation Chair, Dr. Brian Briscoe

Can you please let us know about yourself? 

Dr. Brian Briscoe:  I’m a psychiatrist practicing in Kentucky, and much of my path into medicine was shaped by growing up in southeastern Kentucky, in the Corbin area, with a father who is also a psychiatrist. From an early age, I saw the impact that thoughtful, steady psychiatric care could have on individuals and families. Many of his patients have had a deep appreciation for the role he plays in their lives, and that left a lasting impression on me.

Today, I practice in an outpatient, physician-based setting where we focus on providing individualized, relationship-based care. I’ve been grateful to build my career in a region that feels like home, caring for patients across generations. Outside of work, I value time with my family and staying grounded in the relationships and responsibilities that matter most to me.

What inspired you to choose psychiatry as a career, and what continues to motivate you in this field today?

Dr. Brian Briscoe:  My early exposure to psychiatry through my father’s work played a significant role in my decision to enter the field. I saw firsthand that psychiatric care, when done thoughtfully, can be life-changing in a very real and lasting way. That shaped my view of psychiatry not just as a specialty, but as a meaningful form of service.

What continues to motivate me is the opportunity to walk with patients over time as they work through complex challenges. Progress is often gradual, but seeing someone regain stability, clarity, and a sense of direction is deeply rewarding.

What do you find most fulfilling about working as a psychiatrist, both professionally and personally?

Dr. Brian Briscoe:  Professionally, I find it most fulfilling to help patients bring clarity to situations that initially feel overwhelming or confusing. Psychiatry often involves sorting through multiple layers—biological, psychological, and situational—and helping patients move forward in a practical way.

On a personal level, the work is meaningful because it is rooted in trust. Patients allow you into very vulnerable parts of their lives, and being able to offer steady, consistent care over time is a responsibility I take seriously. Those long-term relationships are one of the most rewarding aspects of the field.

What are some common misconceptions people have about psychiatry, and how do you address them in your work?

Dr. Brian Briscoe:  A common misconception is that psychiatry is primarily about medication, when in reality it involves understanding the whole person—their history, environment, relationships, and values.

In my practice, I also work with many individuals who have a strong Christian faith, which I personally share. At times, mental health struggles can be interpreted through a purely spiritual lens, when in fact they often involve a combination of biological and psychological factors as well. I see part of my role as helping bring clarity to that complexity—supporting individuals in understanding their symptoms more fully while continuing to respect the importance of their faith.

At the same time, I believe it’s important to maintain appropriate professional boundaries. My role is not to direct a person’s spiritual life, but to care for their mental health in a way that is respectful of their beliefs. I’ve found it meaningful, when appropriate, to engage with individuals and faith communities to help broaden understanding of mental health while remaining consistent with their core values.

What challenges have you faced in your psychiatric career, and how have they shaped your perspective or practice?

Dr. Brian Briscoe:  One of the ongoing challenges in psychiatry is that progress is often gradual and not always linear. Early in my career, I had to learn to be comfortable with uncertainty and to recognize that steady, consistent care is often more impactful than trying to find quick solutions.

I’ve also seen how misunderstandings about mental health—whether cultural, social, or spiritual—can sometimes delay people from seeking appropriate care. That has reinforced for me the importance of patient education and clear communication, delivered in a way that respects each person’s background and perspective.

What advice or message would you like to share with medical students or upcoming psychiatrists who are considering this path?

Dr. Brian Briscoe:  I would encourage them to spend time listening carefully to patients and to consider whether they genuinely enjoy that process. Psychiatry requires patience, curiosity, and a willingness to sit with complexity.

It’s also important to be comfortable with the fact that not every situation has a clear or immediate answer. For those who are drawn to understanding people and are willing to invest in long-term relationships, it can be a deeply meaningful and rewarding field.