Photo of Michael Van Gelder, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Seattle, WA
Michael Van Gelder
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, MN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103
I provide psychiatric assessments in order to diagnose and treat a variety of mental illness via medication management.
I am a board certified Psych Nurse Practitioner. Whether you are interested in finding a medication prescriber who can continue a treatment regimen that is already working well or seeking psychiatric services for the first time, I am excited to work with you to achieve your goals. My expertise includes treating patients with depression, anxiety disorders, and ADHD. I may refer out for extra therapy as needed. Note, I am unable to manage active psychosis, personality disorders, or suicidality at this time. I do not prescribe Benzodiazepines or pain medications. I work with Ages 18 to 60.
I provide psychiatric assessments in order to diagnose and treat a variety of mental illness via medication management.
I am a board certified Psych Nurse Practitioner. Whether you are interested in finding a medication prescriber who can continue a treatment regimen that is already working well or seeking psychiatric services for the first time, I am excited to work with you to achieve your goals. My expertise includes treating patients with depression, anxiety disorders, and ADHD. I may refer out for extra therapy as needed. Note, I am unable to manage active psychosis, personality disorders, or suicidality at this time. I do not prescribe Benzodiazepines or pain medications. I work with Ages 18 to 60.
(509) 498-6388 View (509) 498-6388
Photo of Marlen Lukatsky, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Seattle, WA
Marlen Lukatsky
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98126  (Online Only)
I am a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) licensed and practicing in the states of Colorado and Washington. I specialize in treating children, adolescents, and adults with a passion for providing clients with the best possible comprehensive care while focusing on their mental health. I provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, diagnosis, medication management, and psychotherapy. At this time, I am accepting new clients for medication management with supportive therapy.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) licensed and practicing in the states of Colorado and Washington. I specialize in treating children, adolescents, and adults with a passion for providing clients with the best possible comprehensive care while focusing on their mental health. I provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, diagnosis, medication management, and psychotherapy. At this time, I am accepting new clients for medication management with supportive therapy.
(206) 590-7428 x1 View (206) 590-7428 x1
Photo of Jinn Schladweiler, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Seattle, WA
Jinn Schladweiler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MN, OEHN, PMHNP, ARNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98115  (Online Only)
Interpersonal connection and trust between a patient and provider is key to providing quality medication management services.
I'm a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I partner with Mindful Therapy Group to provide telehealth care. My focus is providing medication management for adults recovering from trauma, depression, bipolar disorder and anxiety disorders. I use a patient-centered, holistic approach to help patients meet their goals. I do not treat eating disorders, ADD/ADHD or pregnant or breastfeeding patients. I do not handle L&I or disability claims, or any claims intended legal purposes. I do not provide detailed evaluations. If you need weekly therapy, please look for a therapist.
Interpersonal connection and trust between a patient and provider is key to providing quality medication management services.
I'm a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I partner with Mindful Therapy Group to provide telehealth care. My focus is providing medication management for adults recovering from trauma, depression, bipolar disorder and anxiety disorders. I use a patient-centered, holistic approach to help patients meet their goals. I do not treat eating disorders, ADD/ADHD or pregnant or breastfeeding patients. I do not handle L&I or disability claims, or any claims intended legal purposes. I do not provide detailed evaluations. If you need weekly therapy, please look for a therapist.
(206) 922-4586 View (206) 922-4586
Photo of Monty Owens, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Seattle, WA
Monty Owens
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98107  (Online Only)
04/17/24- Telehealth offered. New patient appointments available in four weeks. No in person appointment required. I provide medication management for clients with ADHD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, depression, anxiety disorders, panic disorder, OCD and psychotic disorders. I can help you improve your life and get you back on track at work, home and in your relationships. Please reach out today for an appointment or if you have any questions!
04/17/24- Telehealth offered. New patient appointments available in four weeks. No in person appointment required. I provide medication management for clients with ADHD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, depression, anxiety disorders, panic disorder, OCD and psychotic disorders. I can help you improve your life and get you back on track at work, home and in your relationships. Please reach out today for an appointment or if you have any questions!
(425) 307-4499 View (425) 307-4499
Photo of Trae Stewart, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Seattle, WA
Trae Stewart
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, MPH, MSN, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98122  (Online Only)
Although he provides medication management, he does utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Narrative and Solution Focused Brief Therapies.
Accepting NEW patients! Make appointments directly at www.psychmatters.net Dr. Stewart is a Board Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with full prescriptive authority. He provides quality mental health care through assessment, diagnosis, and medication management via virtual appointments. Dr. Stewart focuses on medication management for adolescents and adults (13+ years old). He treats mental health disorders like anxiety, OCD, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, ADHD, and sleep disorders.
Although he provides medication management, he does utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Narrative and Solution Focused Brief Therapies.
Accepting NEW patients! Make appointments directly at www.psychmatters.net Dr. Stewart is a Board Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with full prescriptive authority. He provides quality mental health care through assessment, diagnosis, and medication management via virtual appointments. Dr. Stewart focuses on medication management for adolescents and adults (13+ years old). He treats mental health disorders like anxiety, OCD, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, ADHD, and sleep disorders.
(509) 792-3540 View (509) 792-3540
Photo of Complete Health Clinic, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Seattle, WA
Complete Health Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98101  (Online Only)
We treat all ages and also provide medication management services.
Complete Health clinics mission is to provide excellent Medical and Psychiatric care to patients and family. Our goal is to provide quality care to ​multiple communities and States. We offer onsite and telepsychiatry options to fit your needs. We are a multispecialty clinic that acts as a one stop point so that you can reserve time and energy for other important things that matters. We are committed to continuously educating ourselves and incorporating the best of technology to provide excellent care to our patients.
We treat all ages and also provide medication management services.
Complete Health clinics mission is to provide excellent Medical and Psychiatric care to patients and family. Our goal is to provide quality care to ​multiple communities and States. We offer onsite and telepsychiatry options to fit your needs. We are a multispecialty clinic that acts as a one stop point so that you can reserve time and energy for other important things that matters. We are committed to continuously educating ourselves and incorporating the best of technology to provide excellent care to our patients.
(562) 503-4547 View (562) 503-4547
Photo of Ren Scheuerman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Seattle, WA
Ren Scheuerman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98107
My ideal client is anyone experiencing Depression, Anxiety, Panic, disordered Eating (Binge/Purge/Restrict), issues with Focus/Attention/Concentration, low Energy, Insomnia, or Mood Regulation. I prefer to begin with one medication based on the patient's report of their most pressing symptom. I do not want patients to feel medicated, only the benefits that typically present with slow measured prescribing.
My ideal client is anyone experiencing Depression, Anxiety, Panic, disordered Eating (Binge/Purge/Restrict), issues with Focus/Attention/Concentration, low Energy, Insomnia, or Mood Regulation. I prefer to begin with one medication based on the patient's report of their most pressing symptom. I do not want patients to feel medicated, only the benefits that typically present with slow measured prescribing.
(206) 673-4036 View (206) 673-4036
Photo of Bertrand Lee Wicholas, Psychiatrist in Seattle, WA
Bertrand Lee Wicholas
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98105
I specialize in the treatment of adults with a range of mental health concerns. I treat clients in a professional and confidential setting that feels safe and non-judgmental. My practice draws upon a variety of evidence-based psychotherapies and utilizes psychiatric medications if appropriate. I believe that for any treatment to be effective, it must be built upon a trusting and collaborative therapeutic relationship that reflects each client's individual needs and personal values. I believe in a down-to-earth and transparent approach to psychiatry that views genuine human connection as the foundation of any treatment.
I specialize in the treatment of adults with a range of mental health concerns. I treat clients in a professional and confidential setting that feels safe and non-judgmental. My practice draws upon a variety of evidence-based psychotherapies and utilizes psychiatric medications if appropriate. I believe that for any treatment to be effective, it must be built upon a trusting and collaborative therapeutic relationship that reflects each client's individual needs and personal values. I believe in a down-to-earth and transparent approach to psychiatry that views genuine human connection as the foundation of any treatment.
(206) 745-6315 View (206) 745-6315

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Bridgette Jeffries, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Seattle, WA
Dr. Bridgette Jeffries
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Kirkland, WA 98033
Specialized services include performing comprehensive psychiatric diagnostic evaluations; providing evidence-based medication management; brief psychotherapy; supportive therapy and life coaching.
I am doctorally prepared from the University of Washington and board certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). Additionally, as a nurse of 30 years, my experience covers a broad spectrum of providing a multitude of services to individuals and families from all walks of life and economic backgrounds. As a board certified PMHNP, my practice will focus on providing services from the adolescent years throughout the life span. My goal is to meet you where you are in your journey and enhance you with tools that will be life changing. We will collaborate together to identify the best holistic approach.
Specialized services include performing comprehensive psychiatric diagnostic evaluations; providing evidence-based medication management; brief psychotherapy; supportive therapy and life coaching.
I am doctorally prepared from the University of Washington and board certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). Additionally, as a nurse of 30 years, my experience covers a broad spectrum of providing a multitude of services to individuals and families from all walks of life and economic backgrounds. As a board certified PMHNP, my practice will focus on providing services from the adolescent years throughout the life span. My goal is to meet you where you are in your journey and enhance you with tools that will be life changing. We will collaborate together to identify the best holistic approach.
(206) 795-7388 View (206) 795-7388
Photo of Copestone Psychiatric - Warren Shadko, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Seattle, WA
Copestone Psychiatric - Warren Shadko
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Kirkland, WA 98034  (Online Only)
Services include performing comprehensive psychiatric diagnostic evaluations; providing evidence-based medication management; psychotherapy; supportive therapy and coaching.
Accepting New Clients (Nevada & Washington): You are searching for a psychiatric provider that will help you follow through with needed care to complete and maintain your recovery. Copestone Psychiatric works to provide quality mental health care across the lifespan through medication management, therapy, coaching, and more. All psychiatric complaints are treated, including: ADHD, Anxiety disorders, Depressive/Mood disorders, Panic, PTSD, OCD, and Sleep/Wake Disorders. Click our "Website" link to schedule your free, 15-minute consult so we may chat!
Services include performing comprehensive psychiatric diagnostic evaluations; providing evidence-based medication management; psychotherapy; supportive therapy and coaching.
Accepting New Clients (Nevada & Washington): You are searching for a psychiatric provider that will help you follow through with needed care to complete and maintain your recovery. Copestone Psychiatric works to provide quality mental health care across the lifespan through medication management, therapy, coaching, and more. All psychiatric complaints are treated, including: ADHD, Anxiety disorders, Depressive/Mood disorders, Panic, PTSD, OCD, and Sleep/Wake Disorders. Click our "Website" link to schedule your free, 15-minute consult so we may chat!
(425) 217-1651 View (425) 217-1651
Photo of Three Points Healing, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Seattle, WA
Three Points Healing
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, RDN, LMHC, LICSW
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98005
Three Points Healing offers new wellness tools such as Psychotherapy, Medication Management, IV Ketamine, Nasal Esketamine, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT), Nutritional Counseling, Medical Nutritional Therapy, Weight loss, Massage Therapy, and Rejuvenating self-care services (Spa Therapy). This holistic approach allows patients to create new connections within their bodies, adopt a positive mindset, and reach a deeper healing state.
Three Points Healing offers new wellness tools such as Psychotherapy, Medication Management, IV Ketamine, Nasal Esketamine, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT), Nutritional Counseling, Medical Nutritional Therapy, Weight loss, Massage Therapy, and Rejuvenating self-care services (Spa Therapy). This holistic approach allows patients to create new connections within their bodies, adopt a positive mindset, and reach a deeper healing state.
(360) 488-8211 View (360) 488-8211
Photo of Heramba Mental Healthcare, PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Seattle, WA
Heramba Mental Healthcare, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Tukwila, WA 98178
We accept new clients every day throughout the year. We are opened Mondays through Saturdays. We accept all insurances, Medicaid, and Medicare. We do have telepsychiatry, telemedicine, or telehealth availability. We are opened every day, include Saturdays and Sundays. Mental health disorders impact people from a broad spectrum of the population. We love to help and support people. We are passionate about our patients’ psychiatric health and wellbeing. We spend time listening to our clients. We take into considerations our clients’ preferences and complaints.
We accept new clients every day throughout the year. We are opened Mondays through Saturdays. We accept all insurances, Medicaid, and Medicare. We do have telepsychiatry, telemedicine, or telehealth availability. We are opened every day, include Saturdays and Sundays. Mental health disorders impact people from a broad spectrum of the population. We love to help and support people. We are passionate about our patients’ psychiatric health and wellbeing. We spend time listening to our clients. We take into considerations our clients’ preferences and complaints.
(253) 237-8245 View (253) 237-8245
Photo of Heramba Mental Healthcare, PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Seattle, WA
Heramba Mental Healthcare, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP , ARNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98008
We accept new clients every day throughout the year. We are opened Mondays through Saturdays. We accept all insurances, Medicaid, and Medicare. We do have telepsychiatry, telemedicine, or telehealth availability. We are opened every day, include Saturdays and Sundays. Mental health disorders impact people from a broad spectrum of the population. We love to help and support people. We are passionate about our patients’ psychiatric health and wellbeing. We spend time listening to our clients. We take into considerations our clients’ preferences and complaints.
We accept new clients every day throughout the year. We are opened Mondays through Saturdays. We accept all insurances, Medicaid, and Medicare. We do have telepsychiatry, telemedicine, or telehealth availability. We are opened every day, include Saturdays and Sundays. Mental health disorders impact people from a broad spectrum of the population. We love to help and support people. We are passionate about our patients’ psychiatric health and wellbeing. We spend time listening to our clients. We take into considerations our clients’ preferences and complaints.
(509) 584-4815 View (509) 584-4815
Photo of Heramba Mental Healthcare, PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Seattle, WA
Heramba Mental Healthcare, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Kirkland, WA 98083
We accept new clients every day throughout the year. We are opened Mondays through Saturdays. We accept all insurances, Medicaid, and Medicare. We do have telepsychiatry, telemedicine, or telehealth availability. We are opened every day, include Saturdays and Sundays. Mental health disorders impact people from a broad spectrum of the population. We love to help and support people. We are passionate about our patients’ psychiatric health and wellbeing. We spend time listening to our clients. We take into considerations our clients’ preferences and complaints.
We accept new clients every day throughout the year. We are opened Mondays through Saturdays. We accept all insurances, Medicaid, and Medicare. We do have telepsychiatry, telemedicine, or telehealth availability. We are opened every day, include Saturdays and Sundays. Mental health disorders impact people from a broad spectrum of the population. We love to help and support people. We are passionate about our patients’ psychiatric health and wellbeing. We spend time listening to our clients. We take into considerations our clients’ preferences and complaints.
(509) 642-4221 View (509) 642-4221
Alsept Psychiatric PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse, ARNP, MSN, RN
Verified Verified
Kirkland, WA 98033  (Online Only)
As most patients come for their initial visit in some distress, the first two goals are building a mutual understanding of the the distress and focus on symptom relief. I practice as a psychotherapist and I prescribe medication. Some people come for medication and therapy wanting to gain insight into their feelings, change patterns in relationships, confront addiction. Often people come to me for evalution or to continue medications they were previously stable on. Whatever the reason you are visiting Psychology Today, my advice is to focus on building a trusting relationship with whomever you work with.
As most patients come for their initial visit in some distress, the first two goals are building a mutual understanding of the the distress and focus on symptom relief. I practice as a psychotherapist and I prescribe medication. Some people come for medication and therapy wanting to gain insight into their feelings, change patterns in relationships, confront addiction. Often people come to me for evalution or to continue medications they were previously stable on. Whatever the reason you are visiting Psychology Today, my advice is to focus on building a trusting relationship with whomever you work with.
(206) 397-0383 View (206) 397-0383
Photo of Heramba Mental Healthcare, PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Seattle, WA
Heramba Mental Healthcare, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Mercer Island, WA 98040
We accept new clients every day throughout the year. We are opened Mondays through Saturdays. We accept all insurances, Medicaid, and Medicare. We do have telepsychiatry, telemedicine, or telehealth availability. We are opened every day, include Saturdays and Sundays. Mental health disorders impact people from a broad spectrum of the population. We love to help and support people. We are passionate about our patients’ psychiatric health and wellbeing. We spend time listening to our clients. We take into considerations our clients’ preferences and complaints.
We accept new clients every day throughout the year. We are opened Mondays through Saturdays. We accept all insurances, Medicaid, and Medicare. We do have telepsychiatry, telemedicine, or telehealth availability. We are opened every day, include Saturdays and Sundays. Mental health disorders impact people from a broad spectrum of the population. We love to help and support people. We are passionate about our patients’ psychiatric health and wellbeing. We spend time listening to our clients. We take into considerations our clients’ preferences and complaints.
(360) 227-6060 View (360) 227-6060

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Deanette James, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Seattle, WA
Deanette James
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Tacoma, WA 98402  (Online Only)
Deanette James specializes in providing mental health medication management to women, especially those in the working-class group, who are experiencing the burdens of life. If you are a woman who is a wife, a homemaker, a mother, a professional, a daughter, has family responsibilities, or other factors contributing to a decline in your mental health, she is the person to see. Her services focus on women experiencing anxiety, depression, and PTSD. She understands that these disorders are very prevalent and act as determinants of the outcome of a woman's daily life.
Deanette James specializes in providing mental health medication management to women, especially those in the working-class group, who are experiencing the burdens of life. If you are a woman who is a wife, a homemaker, a mother, a professional, a daughter, has family responsibilities, or other factors contributing to a decline in your mental health, she is the person to see. Her services focus on women experiencing anxiety, depression, and PTSD. She understands that these disorders are very prevalent and act as determinants of the outcome of a woman's daily life.
(253) 252-5269 x1 View (253) 252-5269 x1
Photo of Geleen Salcedo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Seattle, WA
Geleen Salcedo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DPT, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Tacoma, WA 98405  (Online Only)
Together, we'll blend medication management, mental health therapies, nutrition and lifestyle adjustments.
Ever felt like your emotions are a puzzle that doesn't quite fit? Or wondered why focus and motivation sometimes play hard to get? Let's tackle those questions together. I'm here to help you rediscover the joy in life. Struggling to kick-start your mornings or find the energy to face the day? Wrestling with overwhelming emotions that appear out of nowhere? Finding restful sleep elusive, leaving you drained? Lingering thoughts putting you on edge? Let's put these challenges to rest. If your mind feels like a racecar on an endless track, and handling intense emotions is like catching a whirlwind, you're not alone. I can be your guide.
Together, we'll blend medication management, mental health therapies, nutrition and lifestyle adjustments.
Ever felt like your emotions are a puzzle that doesn't quite fit? Or wondered why focus and motivation sometimes play hard to get? Let's tackle those questions together. I'm here to help you rediscover the joy in life. Struggling to kick-start your mornings or find the energy to face the day? Wrestling with overwhelming emotions that appear out of nowhere? Finding restful sleep elusive, leaving you drained? Lingering thoughts putting you on edge? Let's put these challenges to rest. If your mind feels like a racecar on an endless track, and handling intense emotions is like catching a whirlwind, you're not alone. I can be your guide.
(321) 414-8817 View (321) 414-8817
Photo of Alexa Velez-Pearson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Seattle, WA
Alexa Velez-Pearson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Renton, WA 98057
I specialize in both medication management and therapy services for those struggling with mental health issues.
Currently open and accepting new patients. There is no ideal client, but individuals seeking to heal from trauma, grief, sadness, and anxiety. We all walk our own paths in life and sometimes need support along the way. Those who are willing to get better and work towards their goals of health and happiness warm my heart and are the driving force for why I practice in psychiatry.
I specialize in both medication management and therapy services for those struggling with mental health issues.
Currently open and accepting new patients. There is no ideal client, but individuals seeking to heal from trauma, grief, sadness, and anxiety. We all walk our own paths in life and sometimes need support along the way. Those who are willing to get better and work towards their goals of health and happiness warm my heart and are the driving force for why I practice in psychiatry.
(253) 600-4383 View (253) 600-4383
Photo of Kim Young-Oak, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Seattle, WA
Kim Young-Oak
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MN, ARNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Poulsbo, WA 98370
I specialize in psychopharmacological ( Psychiatric Medication) evaluations and the treatment of Mood and Anxiety Disorders, OCD, and ADHD. I hold two Board Certifications; Child/Adolescent and Adult. I have 27 years of independent practice experience as an Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner in Kitsap county preceeded by 17 years of experience as an RN in the areas of Nursing Education, Medical, Surgical, Family Practice, and Community Health nursing. My passion is treating those patients considered "treatment resistant" with the most effective methods available.
I specialize in psychopharmacological ( Psychiatric Medication) evaluations and the treatment of Mood and Anxiety Disorders, OCD, and ADHD. I hold two Board Certifications; Child/Adolescent and Adult. I have 27 years of independent practice experience as an Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner in Kitsap county preceeded by 17 years of experience as an RN in the areas of Nursing Education, Medical, Surgical, Family Practice, and Community Health nursing. My passion is treating those patients considered "treatment resistant" with the most effective methods available.
(360) 464-1917 View (360) 464-1917
Medication Management Psychiatrists

What are the most effective ways to manage medications?

One of the most effective ways a patient can manage their medications is to keep a list of each drug and dosage they take. Such a list can be helpful in keeping to their schedule and can also be something they bring to their psychiatrist or other physician so that the healthcare provider has a clear picture of what they’re taking and in what quantity. Using a pill organizer can be useful for memory and organization. Patients should discuss their medications and their effects at every appointment.

What are the risks if medications are not managed properly?

A suboptimal approach to medication management can lead to potentially harmful health outcomes. Most psychiatric drugs have side effects, and if a patient is not aware of them, they may seek additional medical help or over the counter or prescription drugs to treat the side effects, which may have its own side effects, a process called “prescription cascade.” Another risk to disorganization is that a psychiatrist without full knowledge of a patient’s regimen could prescribe a medication that should not be mixed with a patient’s existing drugs.

What’s the best way to encourage someone to get help managing their medications?

It’s helpful to express concern and love for the person while framing medication management as a tool for improving their life and avoiding dangerous side effects. Offering specific examples of an individual’s failure to properly manage their medication regimen should be done with compassion and with empathy. It may be useful to break management down into parts, and there are several apps that can be used to organize which drugs are ingested, when they need to be refilled, and how they should be stored.

Are there natural treatments that can replace medications?

While there are many medications that can be vital to mental health, there are some natural lifestyle changes that can help reduce the need for drugs. Regular exercise, good sleep habits, a healthy diet, and therapy can all go a long way in symptom relief. Psychiatric medications typically treat symptoms but do not necessarily treat the cause of the condition. Many clinicians consider medications an adjunct to treatment rather than a treatment in and of itself.