Photo of Keenan Smith, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Bellevue, WA
Keenan Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004
SAME-WEEK Telehealth appointments. I help individuals overcome a range of mental health challenges using a balanced perspective. My approach includes thoughtful medication management, holistic care, and brief psychotherapy. As part of a holistic view, we examine nutrition, exercise, and sleep in helping clients maximize mental wellness.
SAME-WEEK Telehealth appointments. I help individuals overcome a range of mental health challenges using a balanced perspective. My approach includes thoughtful medication management, holistic care, and brief psychotherapy. As part of a holistic view, we examine nutrition, exercise, and sleep in helping clients maximize mental wellness.
(509) 285-0748 View (509) 285-0748
Photo of Jonathan Allotey, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Bellevue, WA
Jonathan Allotey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004  (Online Only)
Are you in need of evaluation and medication management from someone who will listen carefully to your concerns? I provide a holistic approach that takes into account your unique physical and mental health needs.
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/WA
Are you in need of evaluation and medication management from someone who will listen carefully to your concerns? I provide a holistic approach that takes into account your unique physical and mental health needs.
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/WA
(206) 895-7857 View (206) 895-7857
Photo of Jong Oh, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Bellevue, WA
Jong Oh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004
With experience with severe psychiatric illness through inpatient experience, I specialize in medication management as well as for depression/anxiety, mood disorders and psychosis.
My specialty is working with adults 18 years and older up to geriatric population. I have inpatient and outpatient experience therefore have seen and provided care for mental health conditions of different severity and complexity. If you are looking for a psychiatric provider that will work with you to achieve optimal mental health through collaborative, supportive and holistic care, then you are welcomed here.
With experience with severe psychiatric illness through inpatient experience, I specialize in medication management as well as for depression/anxiety, mood disorders and psychosis.
My specialty is working with adults 18 years and older up to geriatric population. I have inpatient and outpatient experience therefore have seen and provided care for mental health conditions of different severity and complexity. If you are looking for a psychiatric provider that will work with you to achieve optimal mental health through collaborative, supportive and holistic care, then you are welcomed here.
(206) 207-6693 View (206) 207-6693
Photo of Dr. Roberto Montenegro, Psychiatrist in Bellevue, WA
Dr. Roberto Montenegro
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004  (Online Only)
Accepting new patients in WA, CA, and AK! I'm a board-certified psychiatrist who treats children, adolescents, and adults. I use various treatment approaches, such as therapy, medication management, or a combination of both, to help my patients achieve their mental health goals. I specialize in treating high-stakes professionals and was trained at Yale University and the University of Washington (UW). In addition to my clinical work, I teach and conduct research at the UW School of Medicine and Seattle Children's Hospital. I'm dedicated to providing you with the highest quality care.
Accepting new patients in WA, CA, and AK! I'm a board-certified psychiatrist who treats children, adolescents, and adults. I use various treatment approaches, such as therapy, medication management, or a combination of both, to help my patients achieve their mental health goals. I specialize in treating high-stakes professionals and was trained at Yale University and the University of Washington (UW). In addition to my clinical work, I teach and conduct research at the UW School of Medicine and Seattle Children's Hospital. I'm dedicated to providing you with the highest quality care.
(206) 202-3435 View (206) 202-3435
Photo of Michael D. Ward, M.D., PLLC, Psychiatrist in Bellevue, WA
Michael D. Ward, M.D., PLLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004
I am a board-certified Psychiatrist in Kirkland, Washington with broad experience in treating adults with mental and emotional problems, and difficulty coping with life stressors. I provide evidence-based treatments using medication management and psychotherapy tailored to my patient's needs in a safe environment with sensitivity and confidentiality. My goal is not to just treat the symptoms, but also to accurately diagnose and treat the underlying problem in order to improve functioning and quality of life.
I am a board-certified Psychiatrist in Kirkland, Washington with broad experience in treating adults with mental and emotional problems, and difficulty coping with life stressors. I provide evidence-based treatments using medication management and psychotherapy tailored to my patient's needs in a safe environment with sensitivity and confidentiality. My goal is not to just treat the symptoms, but also to accurately diagnose and treat the underlying problem in order to improve functioning and quality of life.
(206) 590-4207 View (206) 590-4207
Photo of Geoff Fong, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Bellevue, WA
Geoff Fong
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MS, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004
I am seeing new and existing clients via telehealth. I believe in collaborating with parents, family, and other mental health professionals to bring a team of support and care to my patients. I offer psychiatric consultations, psychiatric evaluations, and medication management. I treat patients of most ages, ranging from young children (4 and up) to adolescents and adults. **Please note, I do not treat addiction or substance abuse. To learn more about my treatment philosophy and determine if I would be a good fit for your needs, please visit my personal webpage.
I am seeing new and existing clients via telehealth. I believe in collaborating with parents, family, and other mental health professionals to bring a team of support and care to my patients. I offer psychiatric consultations, psychiatric evaluations, and medication management. I treat patients of most ages, ranging from young children (4 and up) to adolescents and adults. **Please note, I do not treat addiction or substance abuse. To learn more about my treatment philosophy and determine if I would be a good fit for your needs, please visit my personal webpage.
(206) 743-9366 View (206) 743-9366
Photo of Emmanuel Nwabude, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Bellevue, WA
Emmanuel Nwabude
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004
I do offer psychotherapy, and a comprehensive medication management therapy that is individualized to meet the needs of the patient/family.
Are you having mood swings? Feeling anxious, down, inattentive, overwhelmed with stress, or having the overall feeling that life just keeps getting harder? Have you tried to explain how you feel to friends or family, but no one fully understands? Because you don't want to be a burden, you sometimes hide your true feelings. I understand these struggles, and will love to help you turn things around for the better. I want to see you live life to your fullest potential. If you are looking for a provider who sees you as a person and not just as your diagnosis, condition or past struggles, please feel free to contact me. I love to help.
I do offer psychotherapy, and a comprehensive medication management therapy that is individualized to meet the needs of the patient/family.
Are you having mood swings? Feeling anxious, down, inattentive, overwhelmed with stress, or having the overall feeling that life just keeps getting harder? Have you tried to explain how you feel to friends or family, but no one fully understands? Because you don't want to be a burden, you sometimes hide your true feelings. I understand these struggles, and will love to help you turn things around for the better. I want to see you live life to your fullest potential. If you are looking for a provider who sees you as a person and not just as your diagnosis, condition or past struggles, please feel free to contact me. I love to help.
(206) 208-6335 View (206) 208-6335
Photo of Denmind Psychiatric Solutions PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Bellevue, WA
Denmind Psychiatric Solutions PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004
We do offer psychotherapy, and a comprehensive medication management therapy that is individualized to meet the needs of the patient/family.
Are you having mood swings? Feeling anxious, down, inattentive, overwhelmed with stress, or having the overall feeling that life just keeps getting harder? Have you tried to explain how you feel to friends or family, but no one fully understands? Because you don't want to be a burden, you sometimes hide your true feelings. We understand these struggles, and will love to help you turn things around for the better. We want to see you live life to your fullest potential. If you are looking for a provider who sees you as a person and not just as your diagnosis, condition or past struggles, please feel free to contact us.
We do offer psychotherapy, and a comprehensive medication management therapy that is individualized to meet the needs of the patient/family.
Are you having mood swings? Feeling anxious, down, inattentive, overwhelmed with stress, or having the overall feeling that life just keeps getting harder? Have you tried to explain how you feel to friends or family, but no one fully understands? Because you don't want to be a burden, you sometimes hide your true feelings. We understand these struggles, and will love to help you turn things around for the better. We want to see you live life to your fullest potential. If you are looking for a provider who sees you as a person and not just as your diagnosis, condition or past struggles, please feel free to contact us.
(425) 659-2850 View (425) 659-2850
Photo of Dr. Michael Sun, Psychiatrist in Bellevue, WA
Dr. Michael Sun
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004  (Online Only)
Sun Family Psychiatry is a private outpatient psychiatry and psychotherapy practice, providing medication management and psychotherapy to children, adults, and families in the greater Seattle area.
My name is Dr. Michael Sun. I graduated from Harvard University and Dartmouth Medical School before completing my adult psychiatry residency training at Duke University and my child and adolescent fellowship training at Massachusetts General Hospital and McLean Hospital, affiliated with Harvard Medical School. Before moving to Seattle, I was the Site Director for Education at the Child and Adolescent Inpatient Psychiatry Unit for the Mount Sinai Health System in New York City.
Sun Family Psychiatry is a private outpatient psychiatry and psychotherapy practice, providing medication management and psychotherapy to children, adults, and families in the greater Seattle area.
My name is Dr. Michael Sun. I graduated from Harvard University and Dartmouth Medical School before completing my adult psychiatry residency training at Duke University and my child and adolescent fellowship training at Massachusetts General Hospital and McLean Hospital, affiliated with Harvard Medical School. Before moving to Seattle, I was the Site Director for Education at the Child and Adolescent Inpatient Psychiatry Unit for the Mount Sinai Health System in New York City.
(206) 495-6117 View (206) 495-6117
Photo of Syed Jamal Mustafa, Psychiatrist in Bellevue, WA
Syed Jamal Mustafa
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004
I am an experienced Board Certified Psychiatrist, specializing in medication management. I am open to collaborating with providers of other disciplines for the benefit my patients. I practice evidence based medicine. My primary focus is your well-being and safety. Accurate and honest clinical assessment/ diagnosis, and effective treatment is my goal.
I am an experienced Board Certified Psychiatrist, specializing in medication management. I am open to collaborating with providers of other disciplines for the benefit my patients. I practice evidence based medicine. My primary focus is your well-being and safety. Accurate and honest clinical assessment/ diagnosis, and effective treatment is my goal.
(425) 368-3893 View (425) 368-3893
Photo of Dr. Anthony DelosReyes, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Bellevue, WA
Dr. Anthony DelosReyes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP, CARN
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004
Medication management is an important tool that can optimize safe, effective, and appropriate drug therapy in your treatment plan.
Offering individualized and compassionate care in the evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of various mental health disorders. I am double-board certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and in Addictions (CARN). Services that are available include Medication Management and supportive therapy. When indicated, our clinic offers genetic testing to optimize ideal medication(s) for you. We also offer home detox treatment for Opiate and Alcohol addictions. This includes: SUBOXONE (Buprenorphine), Non-Suboxone Protocol, Naltrexone, and Vivitrol therapy.
Medication management is an important tool that can optimize safe, effective, and appropriate drug therapy in your treatment plan.
Offering individualized and compassionate care in the evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of various mental health disorders. I am double-board certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and in Addictions (CARN). Services that are available include Medication Management and supportive therapy. When indicated, our clinic offers genetic testing to optimize ideal medication(s) for you. We also offer home detox treatment for Opiate and Alcohol addictions. This includes: SUBOXONE (Buprenorphine), Non-Suboxone Protocol, Naltrexone, and Vivitrol therapy.
(425) 529-5272 View (425) 529-5272
Photo of John Hinrichs, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Bellevue, WA
John Hinrichs
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004  (Online Only)
Psychiatric evaluation, individual therapy, medication management (when needed), life coaching, lifestyle approaches, meditation, and/or referrals to other specialists are among the resources on which we will rely.
If the thought of facing another day of incessant worries and intrusive thoughts has you wound up like a rubber band ready to snap or keeps you up at night, I am here to help. Are you striving to meet your goals but feeling paralyzed by anxiety and overwhelmed with exhaustion? I hope you are well, and even if you aren’t right now, that’s okay. We all struggle at times, and sometimes reaching out for that extra bit of support makes all the difference. If we work together, I will be there to support and guide you along your journey towards health.
Psychiatric evaluation, individual therapy, medication management (when needed), life coaching, lifestyle approaches, meditation, and/or referrals to other specialists are among the resources on which we will rely.
If the thought of facing another day of incessant worries and intrusive thoughts has you wound up like a rubber band ready to snap or keeps you up at night, I am here to help. Are you striving to meet your goals but feeling paralyzed by anxiety and overwhelmed with exhaustion? I hope you are well, and even if you aren’t right now, that’s okay. We all struggle at times, and sometimes reaching out for that extra bit of support makes all the difference. If we work together, I will be there to support and guide you along your journey towards health.
(425) 629-8569 View (425) 629-8569
Photo of Sid Siahpush, Psychiatrist in Bellevue, WA
Sid Siahpush
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD, MPH, CGP
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004  (Online Only)
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS, EVENING HOURS/WEEKENDS AVAILABLE. Do you seek a compassionate Psychiatrist who believes in a collaborative approach to improve your emotional and physical health? One who values your trust and forges a caring connection with you, to support your growth through the evidence-based conventional psychiatry and broader holistic approach? ** Hi, I am Dr. Sid. I work with my patients to find a well-rounded approach to emotional wellness that includes medication management, therapy, collaborating with your therapist, and strategies for engaging in balanced exercise, nutrition, and relationships.
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS, EVENING HOURS/WEEKENDS AVAILABLE. Do you seek a compassionate Psychiatrist who believes in a collaborative approach to improve your emotional and physical health? One who values your trust and forges a caring connection with you, to support your growth through the evidence-based conventional psychiatry and broader holistic approach? ** Hi, I am Dr. Sid. I work with my patients to find a well-rounded approach to emotional wellness that includes medication management, therapy, collaborating with your therapist, and strategies for engaging in balanced exercise, nutrition, and relationships.
(425) 620-2926 View (425) 620-2926
Photo of Ionatan Cauneac, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Bellevue, WA
Ionatan Cauneac
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004  (Online Only)
Accepting new clients for mental health evaluation and care. I specialize in psychiatric assessments, medication management, and supportive psychotherapy for children, adolescents, and adults struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use, bipolar spectrum disorders, insomnia, and ADHD. Rather than mask or cover your symptoms with medication, my goal is to take a wholistic approach to your care and address the root cause of your mental health challenges so that you can begin the process of healing. I'm a firm believe that without mental health we can never experience true health and wellness.
Accepting new clients for mental health evaluation and care. I specialize in psychiatric assessments, medication management, and supportive psychotherapy for children, adolescents, and adults struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use, bipolar spectrum disorders, insomnia, and ADHD. Rather than mask or cover your symptoms with medication, my goal is to take a wholistic approach to your care and address the root cause of your mental health challenges so that you can begin the process of healing. I'm a firm believe that without mental health we can never experience true health and wellness.
(425) 946-2513 View (425) 946-2513
Photo of Batis Akaya, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Bellevue, WA
Batis Akaya
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98006
I specialize in treating adults 18years and older and I diagnose, evaluate, and do evidence-based medication management.
Thank you for choosing Bitary Health Behavioral Health Services. I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) licensed in the state of Washington with over 5years experience working in the mental health field. I have experience both in inpatient and outpatient settings. Mental illness is an unpredictable and silent invader. A once happy and joyful individual can suddenly have days filled with hopelessness, despair, helplessness, and consigned to oblivion. The hurdles created by mental illness in one’s life are only visible by the individuals suffering from it.
I specialize in treating adults 18years and older and I diagnose, evaluate, and do evidence-based medication management.
Thank you for choosing Bitary Health Behavioral Health Services. I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) licensed in the state of Washington with over 5years experience working in the mental health field. I have experience both in inpatient and outpatient settings. Mental illness is an unpredictable and silent invader. A once happy and joyful individual can suddenly have days filled with hopelessness, despair, helplessness, and consigned to oblivion. The hurdles created by mental illness in one’s life are only visible by the individuals suffering from it.
(253) 867-9501 View (253) 867-9501
Photo of Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, Psychiatrist in Bellevue, WA
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004  (Online Only)
As a family and community psychiatrist, he performs respectful psychotherapy with empathy in addition to careful medication management.
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
As a family and community psychiatrist, he performs respectful psychotherapy with empathy in addition to careful medication management.
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
(425) 584-3369 View (425) 584-3369
Photo of Sean Dunn, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Bellevue, WA
Sean Dunn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, BSN, BA
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98006
I provide primarily medication management to teens and adults in a judgment free, empathetic setting.
I know all too well that finding the right provider can be a struggle. I run a client-centered practice, which means YOU come first. Through my patient portal, you can make your own appointments, submit refill requests, track lab results, and get in touch all without lifting a phone. I run an intentionally small-scale, streamlined practice, which means less logistical hassles and phone-tag. While in my care, you will be with a passionate provider who adheres to the most current and evidence-based practices. Learn more and reach out at www.atcpsychiatry.com
I provide primarily medication management to teens and adults in a judgment free, empathetic setting.
I know all too well that finding the right provider can be a struggle. I run a client-centered practice, which means YOU come first. Through my patient portal, you can make your own appointments, submit refill requests, track lab results, and get in touch all without lifting a phone. I run an intentionally small-scale, streamlined practice, which means less logistical hassles and phone-tag. While in my care, you will be with a passionate provider who adheres to the most current and evidence-based practices. Learn more and reach out at www.atcpsychiatry.com
(206) 202-3334 View (206) 202-3334
Photo of Baraka Behavioral Health (BBH), LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Bellevue, WA
Baraka Behavioral Health (BBH), LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004
I am board certified psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner providing psychiatric services includes evaluations, diagnosis, and psychiatric medication management for such conditions as depression, personality disorders, anxiety, bipolar, and attention deficit disorders among others for children, adolescents, adults and geriatrics. At BBS, you are guaranteed of a highly skilled and knowledgeable Practitioner, from the confines of your home, virtually, through your smartphone, and or computer. You are at the center, and You matter!
I am board certified psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner providing psychiatric services includes evaluations, diagnosis, and psychiatric medication management for such conditions as depression, personality disorders, anxiety, bipolar, and attention deficit disorders among others for children, adolescents, adults and geriatrics. At BBS, you are guaranteed of a highly skilled and knowledgeable Practitioner, from the confines of your home, virtually, through your smartphone, and or computer. You are at the center, and You matter!
(515) 209-7917 View (515) 209-7917
Photo of Zhendong Jeff Ma, Psychiatrist in Bellevue, WA
Zhendong Jeff Ma
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98005
Waitlist for new clients
Dr. Ma is board-certified by American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Dr. Ma graduated from Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, and obtained Ph.D. in Neuroscience from University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Medicine, he finished residency training in Psychiatry at University of Alabama at Birmingham Medical Center, and completed research and fellowship training at Howard Hughes Medical Institute and University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center.
Dr. Ma is board-certified by American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Dr. Ma graduated from Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, and obtained Ph.D. in Neuroscience from University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Medicine, he finished residency training in Psychiatry at University of Alabama at Birmingham Medical Center, and completed research and fellowship training at Howard Hughes Medical Institute and University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center.
(425) 657-3552 View (425) 657-3552
Photo of Cal Cogburn, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Bellevue, WA
Cal Cogburn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004  (Online Only)
It can be difficult to take that step to seek care, especially in the midst of not feeling well overall or about one's self. Experience has shown that making that first step actually breaks a cycle in our thinking and behavior, allowing us to to be open (typically small steps at first) to thinking and believing that we are worth getting better! I urge you to seek care. Reach out and make a 15 minute "Match" appointment with me. A mentor once told me "You can feel better or be better"; let's work together to help you be better... I look forward to hearing from you.
It can be difficult to take that step to seek care, especially in the midst of not feeling well overall or about one's self. Experience has shown that making that first step actually breaks a cycle in our thinking and behavior, allowing us to to be open (typically small steps at first) to thinking and believing that we are worth getting better! I urge you to seek care. Reach out and make a 15 minute "Match" appointment with me. A mentor once told me "You can feel better or be better"; let's work together to help you be better... I look forward to hearing from you.
(360) 968-8074 View (360) 968-8074
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.