Mark Townsend, MD, MS

Dr. Mark H. Townsend is an accomplished medical professional with an impressive background in psychiatry and addiction medicine. He embarked on his academic journey at the University of Chicago, where he completed his college and graduate studies. His medical degree was earned from Tulane University. Dr. Townsend further honed his skills and knowledge through general psychiatry residency training at the Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center in New Orleans, where he excelled and served as chief resident.

Dr. Townsend’s commitment to excellence is reflected in his board certifications in both psychiatry and addiction medicine. He has also received certification in community psychiatry from the American Association of Community Psychiatrists. As a testament to his expertise and contributions to the field, he holds the esteemed title of professor emeritus in the Department of Psychiatry at Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center in New Orleans.

Dr. Townsend’s areas of expertise encompass a wide range of subjects. He has a keen interest in teaching methods and curriculum development for both graduate and undergraduate medical education. His research focuses on the psychopharmacology of mood and anxiety disorders, as well as exploring factors associated with mental illness among marginalized groups, both historically and in the present. Dr. Townsend has authored numerous manuscripts that delve into the impact of medical and psychiatric comorbidities on patient outcomes, covering topics such as OCD and depression, anxiety disorders and psychosis, and the intersection of heart disease and anxiety.

A trailblazer in his field, Dr. Townsend has made significant contributions to LGBTQ healthcare education. He was one of the pioneers in addressing LGBTQ issues in medical education, developing LGBTQ-focused undergraduate medical curricula and providing support services for LGBTQ students. Dr. Townsend’s commitment to patient care is evident through his extensive clinical experience, including serving as the psychiatry medical director for the LSU New Orleans hospitals in the challenging years following Hurricane Katrina. He also served as a director of the LSU Healthcare Network from 2016 to 2022.

Dr. Mark H. Townsend’s illustrious career, expertise in psychiatry and addiction medicine, dedication to medical education, and commitment to improving mental health outcomes make him a highly respected figure in his field. His vast clinical experience, research contributions, and advocacy for marginalized communities have positively impacted the medical community and the lives of countless patients.