Dr. Elizabeth Barlow Simpson, MD

At the Shattuck Hospital DBT program in 2009, Simpson led a mindfulness breathing activity. I was suffering from bulimia and didn't want to put my hand on my belly, but still wanted to participate otherwise. Without warning, she grabbed both my hands and forced me to touch my stomach. I ran out and got on the shuttle bus to go back to my group home, but she was never reprimanded for her actions. I have been mistreated many times by mental health workers and this was one that has stuck with me. She is an unethical person and should not have a license. -Sarah Anne Butterfield

It is with abiding gratitude and respect that I remember all that Dr. Simpson did to help bring about my recovery back in 1993-1994, when I was admitted to the IOP DBT Partial Hospital Program at Butler Hospital in Providence, RI. She is one of the people who inspired me to now graduate with my MA in Holistic Counseling, so tremendous was her influence. She is a true gem! Although my ratings on this website are from my prior experience with her, I am sure she still earns 4 stars consistently.

I consider myself one of her first patients. I met her when she was in residence. She committed herself completely to my care & made herself available. I needed this & I wouldn't have responded to anyone else's half-hearted attempts. In brief, she saved my life, & almost thirty years later I am happy, & I haven't forgotten the doctor who made that possible.