Dr. Malecha hopes to help those struggling with mental health to regain a healthy sense of both mental and physical well-being.

Psychiatrist Matthew Malecha, MD, knew that a career supporting patients through mental health crises was his calling.

“I couldn’t have imagined doing anything else,” Dr. Malecha said. “I try my best to hone in on a particular patient’s story. At that point I can begin to tailor treatment towards their successful navigation through vulnerable periods in life.”

Dr. Malecha begins seeing patients at New Ulm Medical Center’s (NUMC) inpatient mental health unit this summer. A native of Cambridge, Minn., he earned his medical degree at the University of Minnesota Duluth and Minneapolis campuses. He completed his residency at the University of South Dakota, Sanford School of Medicine.

“I take my time educating patients on the diagnosis and treatment plan. It’s important to do this in a way that befits the patient’s needs and ability to understand,” Dr. Malecha says of his practice style. “I enjoy inquiring about a fun fact, joke, favorite activity, or other interests or pursuits my patients have. Approachability and a personable demeanor go a long way to best serve a patient in distress.”

Dr. Malecha appreciates working in the inpatient setting where critical interventions can make a big impact in relatively short periods of time. He has a special interest in treating bipolar disorders, depressive disorders, schizophrenia, anxiety disorders, and more.  

“Mental illnesses can impact people of all ages, sexes, and walks of life. While societal awareness of this improves over time, I believe there remains a stigma with respect to seeking and receiving treatment for many psychiatric disorders,” Dr. Malecha said. “I am committed to serving the community’s needs and hope to help those struggling to regain a healthy sense of both mental and physical well-being.”

Dr. Malecha says he enjoys the opportunity of getting to know the patient as a whole, to help determine the best course of action for each person. “There is truly no one-size-fits-all treatment and considering factors outside of just the medicine can at times be the biggest determinant of success for a patient,” he said.

Away from work, Dr. Malecha enjoys spending time with his family; from outside sports and activities with his kids, to running, hiking, and bike-riding. Their family also enjoys regularly watching movies, pizza night, and involvement with church activities. Personally, he enjoys sports, especially football.

“Though football is a favorite pastime for many, the New Ulm community will need to brace themselves for the newest Green Bay Packer fans in town. Go Pack Go!” Dr. Malecha teased. “I also love personal stories, history, and culture — something I cherish about the New Ulm community very much.”

Dr. Malecha encourages anyone struggling with severe mental illness, thoughts of suicide, or a substance use disorder to see out treatment and begin their journey towards healing.

To find out more about NUMC’s inpatient mental health services, go to allinahealth.org/mentalhealth.