David Burke, MD

Professional Summary

I work in the Comprehensive Psychiatry Emergency Program (CPEP) at ECMC, where I evaluate and care for individuals experiencing acute psychiatric conditions across the lifespan. My approach to care is person centered. In an emergency psychiatric setting, patients and families are often facing stressful, uncertain or frightening moments. I work to understand each individual’s whole situation before collaborating on an appropriate treatment plan. That means looking not only at symptoms, but also at the circumstances, supports and immediate needs that shape the safest and most helpful next steps. 

In addition to caring for patients, I supervise residents and medical students in the CPEP setting. Teaching is an important part of my work because it allows me to help future physicians learn how to evaluate acute psychiatric concerns thoughtfully, communicate clearly and approach patients with respect during moments of crisis. 

My goal is to provide careful, compassionate psychiatric assessment and help patients, families and care teams identify a path forward during urgent mental health situations. 

Education and Training

My training includes general psychiatry residency and child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship ay SUNY Buffalo, which gives me experience with both adult and youth mental health needs in urgent and complex settings.