Medication Management Therapists in Oakville, ON
![Photo of Alexandra Peterson, RN, MScN, RP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b395ae3d-57c1-486c-b491-93802e41a470/1/320x400.jpeg)
Alexandra Peterson
Registered Psychotherapist, RN, MScN, RP
Verified Verified
Oakville, ON L6J (Online Only)
My scope of practice includes additional services such as health education, and medication management done in collaboration with your Family Doctor or Psychiatrist.
I am a Registered Psychotherapist, and also a Registered Nurse who specializes in the treatment of adults experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship issues, sexual concerns, and trauma. Using an integrative approach, I can help you learn how to let go of old patterns that no longer work, and manage the fear and uncertainty that often arises from some of life’s greatest challenges such as illness, separation/divorce, or the death of a loved one. I take a special interest in supporting professionals who work in highly challenging environments by helping them to increase their psychological flexibility and manage workplace stress.
My scope of practice includes additional services such as health education, and medication management done in collaboration with your Family Doctor or Psychiatrist.
I am a Registered Psychotherapist, and also a Registered Nurse who specializes in the treatment of adults experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship issues, sexual concerns, and trauma. Using an integrative approach, I can help you learn how to let go of old patterns that no longer work, and manage the fear and uncertainty that often arises from some of life’s greatest challenges such as illness, separation/divorce, or the death of a loved one. I take a special interest in supporting professionals who work in highly challenging environments by helping them to increase their psychological flexibility and manage workplace stress.
![Photo of Mojgan (Megan) Rasaei, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a8e2bd7-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you seeking support and guidance to navigate life's challenges and find a path towards healing and growth? At my practice, I extend a warm and understanding hand to individuals who are grappling with a wide spectrum of concerns, including anxiety, ADHD, chronic illness, depression, adolescent emotional and behavioral difficulties, pregnancy and postpartum mental wellness, self-injurious behavior, sleep issues, stress management, coping strategies, motor vehicle accidents, and trauma. My approach to psychotherapy is deeply rooted in compassion, acceptance, loving kindness, and mindfulness.
Are you seeking support and guidance to navigate life's challenges and find a path towards healing and growth? At my practice, I extend a warm and understanding hand to individuals who are grappling with a wide spectrum of concerns, including anxiety, ADHD, chronic illness, depression, adolescent emotional and behavioral difficulties, pregnancy and postpartum mental wellness, self-injurious behavior, sleep issues, stress management, coping strategies, motor vehicle accidents, and trauma. My approach to psychotherapy is deeply rooted in compassion, acceptance, loving kindness, and mindfulness.
![Photo of Suzanne Dumais, BA, BEd, MDiv, RMFT, RP, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48f576e4-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Suzanne Dumais
Marriage & Family Therapist, BA, BEd, MDiv, RMFT, RP
Verified Verified
Oakville, ON L6J
Life is a journey, like every great journey it has its certainties and uncertainties. As a registered marriage and family therapist I am trained in systemic, relationships and psychotherapy. I believe that throughout life we exist in many type of relationships, that directly or indirectly impact our well beings. Research and theory have shown that mental illness and family issues are best treated in the context of relationships. My therapeutic approach to counseling is non judgmental, kind, graceful, understanding and I value my clients input in the session. I use Gottman Method Couple Therapy in my work.
Life is a journey, like every great journey it has its certainties and uncertainties. As a registered marriage and family therapist I am trained in systemic, relationships and psychotherapy. I believe that throughout life we exist in many type of relationships, that directly or indirectly impact our well beings. Research and theory have shown that mental illness and family issues are best treated in the context of relationships. My therapeutic approach to counseling is non judgmental, kind, graceful, understanding and I value my clients input in the session. I use Gottman Method Couple Therapy in my work.
![Photo of Stacy Olieux -Emotion Regulation -Depression -Trauma, MACP, BSc, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8c6f0287-3a08-49d9-8651-5f7695539186/1/320x400.jpeg)
Stacy Olieux -Emotion Regulation -Depression -Trauma
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP, BSc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakville, ON L6M (Online Only)
Are you someone who struggles with big emotions, leading to relationship issues? Perhaps you feel overwhelmed with life and are not sure where to turn to for some relief. Do you struggle with depression or anxiety? Maybe you have been diagnosed with a personality disorder and feel isolated in dealing with the symptoms of the disorder. Life can be overwhelming at times for many of us, but with the added stress of mental health struggles, it can feel like the weight of the world is on your shoulders and you may feel lost and disconnected. If you want to change these characteristics of your life, you have come to the right place.
Are you someone who struggles with big emotions, leading to relationship issues? Perhaps you feel overwhelmed with life and are not sure where to turn to for some relief. Do you struggle with depression or anxiety? Maybe you have been diagnosed with a personality disorder and feel isolated in dealing with the symptoms of the disorder. Life can be overwhelming at times for many of us, but with the added stress of mental health struggles, it can feel like the weight of the world is on your shoulders and you may feel lost and disconnected. If you want to change these characteristics of your life, you have come to the right place.
![Photo of Sadaf Sheikh - Your Lifetime Counselling, MD, MACP, RP, PMP, CCRP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/808655ca-b95d-4dbd-83f8-e3dc5f627ce7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Your Lifetime Counselling
Registered Psychotherapist, MD, MACP, RP, PMP, CCRP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Oakville, ON L6H
I wear many professional hats. I am an MD, MACP, RP, a Clinical Researcher, a Project Management Professional, a Professor at George Brown College, previously an instructor for 15 years at UofT and a family oriented female. I am a published author in the Journal of American College of Cardiology, International Diabetes Federation and the Journal of European Society of Cardiology. I have a number of years worth of work experience in mental health. I have taken care of clients in the in/out patient settings. I believe in providing a non-judgmental and safe space for people to share. My aim is to build stronger communities.
I wear many professional hats. I am an MD, MACP, RP, a Clinical Researcher, a Project Management Professional, a Professor at George Brown College, previously an instructor for 15 years at UofT and a family oriented female. I am a published author in the Journal of American College of Cardiology, International Diabetes Federation and the Journal of European Society of Cardiology. I have a number of years worth of work experience in mental health. I have taken care of clients in the in/out patient settings. I believe in providing a non-judgmental and safe space for people to share. My aim is to build stronger communities.
![Photo of Nancy Sorial, MA, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3368ee51-d04c-47c9-90f3-b6eb7e05acba/1/320x400.jpeg)
Do you have a feeling of hopelessness? Do you always feel trapped in your traumatic events? Have you tried to overcome the negative experiences many times, but you couldn't? Do you think these traumatic events affect your past, present and future? Have you ever felt you are unable to cope and overwhelmed dealing with your spouse and children? Why would you struggle alone? Reaching out for professional help is the best way to get out of these traps and revive your cheerful spirit for better coping and flourishing strategies. Life might not change, but our views and capabilities can change for better personal and professional life.
Do you have a feeling of hopelessness? Do you always feel trapped in your traumatic events? Have you tried to overcome the negative experiences many times, but you couldn't? Do you think these traumatic events affect your past, present and future? Have you ever felt you are unable to cope and overwhelmed dealing with your spouse and children? Why would you struggle alone? Reaching out for professional help is the best way to get out of these traps and revive your cheerful spirit for better coping and flourishing strategies. Life might not change, but our views and capabilities can change for better personal and professional life.
![Photo of Dr. Parmjit Sanghera - Spring Psychology and Wellness Centre , PsyD, CPsych, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fbae90a-d7e4-40ef-ba30-a1411f096738/2/320x400.jpeg)
Spring Psychology and Wellness Centre
Psychologist, PsyD, CPsych
Verified Verified
Oakville, ON L6L (Online Only)
As the words “Spring” and “Wellness” suggest we at Spring Psychology and Wellness Centre aim to install hope, motivation and optimism when working with you. We work collaboratively with you when providing assessment, treatment and consultation services. At Spring Psychology and Wellness Centre we embrace inclusion and diversity and offer services in confidence with a warm, nonjudgmental, empathic approach that is also holistic. We welcome learning more about you, your experiences and perspectives and invite you to reach out to continue your journey of wellness and resilience.
As the words “Spring” and “Wellness” suggest we at Spring Psychology and Wellness Centre aim to install hope, motivation and optimism when working with you. We work collaboratively with you when providing assessment, treatment and consultation services. At Spring Psychology and Wellness Centre we embrace inclusion and diversity and offer services in confidence with a warm, nonjudgmental, empathic approach that is also holistic. We welcome learning more about you, your experiences and perspectives and invite you to reach out to continue your journey of wellness and resilience.
![Photo of Marta Mackiw - Helping to Reconnect Counselling Services , MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2af110be-a3ef-454d-a2d8-4efee5a25afc/2/320x400.jpeg)
Helping to Reconnect Counselling Services
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakville, ON L6M
***ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS*** Our practice’s approach is to be with you through every step of your journey. We aim to help you grow from your struggles, make sense of your experiences, and take your life in the direction you wish. We achieve this by providing a neutral safe space, listening to your concerns, and customizing a treatment plan. Our goal as a practice is to provide a neutral ground in which individuals, families, and couples can safely heal, energize and become aware of their inner strength. Thus, we ensure that a therapist is able to see you within 48 hours of reaching out.
***ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS*** Our practice’s approach is to be with you through every step of your journey. We aim to help you grow from your struggles, make sense of your experiences, and take your life in the direction you wish. We achieve this by providing a neutral safe space, listening to your concerns, and customizing a treatment plan. Our goal as a practice is to provide a neutral ground in which individuals, families, and couples can safely heal, energize and become aware of their inner strength. Thus, we ensure that a therapist is able to see you within 48 hours of reaching out.
![Photo of Candice Hamilton-Miller, MSc, BSc, BA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cc17881e-c3fc-4d85-a7a5-afdca297d975/2/320x400.jpeg)
Candice Hamilton-Miller
Registered Psychotherapist, MSc, BSc, BA, RP
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Oakville, ON L6M
Current Promo for our Intern level therapist- “Summer Try before you Buy”, get 2 free sessions with an Intern (conditions apply). CHM Therapy Services offers a range of psychotherapeutic services, specializing in individual therapy for young children, teens and adults and family therapy. I also offer group workshops, phototherapy, COGMED working memory training and parent/life coaching. Techniques used with clients include a personalized blend of cognitive behavioural therapy, mindfulness therapy, behavior therapy, play therapy; attachment therapy, narrative therapy, psychotherapy, vision boards and phototherapy.
Current Promo for our Intern level therapist- “Summer Try before you Buy”, get 2 free sessions with an Intern (conditions apply). CHM Therapy Services offers a range of psychotherapeutic services, specializing in individual therapy for young children, teens and adults and family therapy. I also offer group workshops, phototherapy, COGMED working memory training and parent/life coaching. Techniques used with clients include a personalized blend of cognitive behavioural therapy, mindfulness therapy, behavior therapy, play therapy; attachment therapy, narrative therapy, psychotherapy, vision boards and phototherapy.
![Photo of Atul Mehra, MPCP, RPC, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d8dcc6fe-95c7-4802-bda3-f71c886426c3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you feeling depressed, anxious or overwhelmed? Do you think that life has not been fair and you suffer from emotional pain/guilt? Are you looking for answers/solutions for your mental or physical illness? For 20 years I have been working with clients helping them with their unique life story. My therapy opens up the understanding of physical/mental disorder and integrates what has been rejected in your life. One client understood the circumstances that manifested a tumor and decided to continue her life without it. She actually started to appreciate her life and stopped blaming her parents for her upbringing.
Are you feeling depressed, anxious or overwhelmed? Do you think that life has not been fair and you suffer from emotional pain/guilt? Are you looking for answers/solutions for your mental or physical illness? For 20 years I have been working with clients helping them with their unique life story. My therapy opens up the understanding of physical/mental disorder and integrates what has been rejected in your life. One client understood the circumstances that manifested a tumor and decided to continue her life without it. She actually started to appreciate her life and stopped blaming her parents for her upbringing.
![Photo of Vicky Li - Psychotherapy And Supervision, RP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4724605c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Vicky Li - Psychotherapy And Supervision
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakville, ON L6H (Online Only)
Do you often feel lost and exhausted in your own thoughts? Are you struggling with substance use? Or do you feel that something is weighing you down but you just can’t seem to figure out why? If you are looking to gain some perspective on your thoughts and feelings, gestalt therapy is a good place to start. As a Gestalt therapist, I provide a safe and non-judgmental space to explore what is bothering you in the present moment. I am also excited to have the opportunity to work with student therapists and support them in this rewarding journey!
Do you often feel lost and exhausted in your own thoughts? Are you struggling with substance use? Or do you feel that something is weighing you down but you just can’t seem to figure out why? If you are looking to gain some perspective on your thoughts and feelings, gestalt therapy is a good place to start. As a Gestalt therapist, I provide a safe and non-judgmental space to explore what is bothering you in the present moment. I am also excited to have the opportunity to work with student therapists and support them in this rewarding journey!
15 Second Videos
Stacy Olieux -Emotion Regulation -Depression -Trauma
Candice Hamilton-Miller
Strength Counselling Services
Viktoria Vigh
Esra Magsoud
![Photo of Amanda Dewar - Strength Counselling Services, MEd, RCC, CCC, RSW, RP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8afeb5da-0b50-4d89-ae9c-7b867e560ccf/1/320x400.jpeg)
Strength Counselling Services
Counsellor, MEd, RCC, CCC, RSW, RP
Verified Verified
Oakville, ON L6H (Online Only)
We are an online counselling agency so do not provide services in person. Strength Counselling Services has licensed, experienced therapists who use evidence-based practices, prioritize client needs, and maintain ethical standards. We offer culturally sensitive, affordable services in a supportive environment. We offer a comprehensive goals assessment, regularly assess progress, and collaborate with other professionals. We provide transparency in our fees and for thirteen years now have held a positive reputation of trust, and client success. Lastly, ensuring our clients' privacy and confidentiality are of utmost importance to us.
We are an online counselling agency so do not provide services in person. Strength Counselling Services has licensed, experienced therapists who use evidence-based practices, prioritize client needs, and maintain ethical standards. We offer culturally sensitive, affordable services in a supportive environment. We offer a comprehensive goals assessment, regularly assess progress, and collaborate with other professionals. We provide transparency in our fees and for thirteen years now have held a positive reputation of trust, and client success. Lastly, ensuring our clients' privacy and confidentiality are of utmost importance to us.
![Photo of Viktoria Vigh, MC, RSW, AACC, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52e8d990-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Viktoria Vigh
Registered Social Worker, MC, RSW, AACC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Oakville, ON L6H (Online Only)
Are you dealing with adult ADHD, autism, learning disabilities, organization, relationship, or sleep issues? You know you are capable, hard working, and intelligent but life continues to be challenging and difficult to manage? Do you struggle with maintaining and navigating the complexities of your relationships? Have you tried to solve these issues before with little to no results? As a neurodivergent individual, you may face unique challenges that can be difficult to address on your own. What if you were offered practical strategies, acceptance, and understanding? This is the space that I offer for you.
Are you dealing with adult ADHD, autism, learning disabilities, organization, relationship, or sleep issues? You know you are capable, hard working, and intelligent but life continues to be challenging and difficult to manage? Do you struggle with maintaining and navigating the complexities of your relationships? Have you tried to solve these issues before with little to no results? As a neurodivergent individual, you may face unique challenges that can be difficult to address on your own. What if you were offered practical strategies, acceptance, and understanding? This is the space that I offer for you.
![Photo of Esra Magsoud, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/348c9774-f85c-44e6-8bfc-74f0ea3802c6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Esra Magsoud
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakville, ON L6L (Online Only)
I provide individual, couples & family therapy to children, youth & adults. Deciding to seek therapy is an important step forward & I look forward to supporting you on your journey of personal growth. Whether you desire to make strides in your emotional, personal, social, or mental health, I will facilitate positive changes to improve your quality of life. I believe that safely & openly exploring your emotions in a positive & helpful environment is crucial. We will collaboratively create treatment plans & goals together, according to your unique needs, preferences & values. I apply an intersectional lens to promote cultural safety.
I provide individual, couples & family therapy to children, youth & adults. Deciding to seek therapy is an important step forward & I look forward to supporting you on your journey of personal growth. Whether you desire to make strides in your emotional, personal, social, or mental health, I will facilitate positive changes to improve your quality of life. I believe that safely & openly exploring your emotions in a positive & helpful environment is crucial. We will collaboratively create treatment plans & goals together, according to your unique needs, preferences & values. I apply an intersectional lens to promote cultural safety.
![Photo of Natalie Sullivan - Anxiety And Relationship Difficulties, BSCN, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42ba848f-924b-43fd-9ae2-26dd92f8ce22/1/320x400.jpeg)
Natalie Sullivan - Anxiety And Relationship Difficulties
Registered Psychotherapist, BSCN, MACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakville, ON L6M
Hi! I am a registered psychotherapist with a background in community health nursing and have worked with many people from different communities in my career. I know from personal experience that relationships and life transitions are not easy - I can help you work through the hard times and deal with challenging relationships. I am a very good listener and work hard to help people learn about themselves and find ways to manage anxiety, stress, depression or just the feeling of being "off". I can also help you figure out patterns in your relationships that are causing anger, sadness, a sense of emptiness, or guilt.
Hi! I am a registered psychotherapist with a background in community health nursing and have worked with many people from different communities in my career. I know from personal experience that relationships and life transitions are not easy - I can help you work through the hard times and deal with challenging relationships. I am a very good listener and work hard to help people learn about themselves and find ways to manage anxiety, stress, depression or just the feeling of being "off". I can also help you figure out patterns in your relationships that are causing anger, sadness, a sense of emptiness, or guilt.
![Photo of Kathryn Weiser, MHSc, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b8b7046-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Kathryn Weiser
Registered Social Worker, MHSc, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oakville, ON L6H
At some point in most relationships, couples experience conflict and sexual disconnection. I help individuals/couples struggling with verbal & sexual communication so they can develop healthier relationships and/or increased sexual connectedness. Are you struggling with communication issues? Conflict? Differences in desire? Illness? Trust issues? Arousal issues? Sexual trauma? I can help you gain insight into your challenges and provide tools to strengthen communication and improve sexual/ intimacy experiences. I help clients with medical issues such as cancer and chronic pain cope so you can have an increased quality of life.
At some point in most relationships, couples experience conflict and sexual disconnection. I help individuals/couples struggling with verbal & sexual communication so they can develop healthier relationships and/or increased sexual connectedness. Are you struggling with communication issues? Conflict? Differences in desire? Illness? Trust issues? Arousal issues? Sexual trauma? I can help you gain insight into your challenges and provide tools to strengthen communication and improve sexual/ intimacy experiences. I help clients with medical issues such as cancer and chronic pain cope so you can have an increased quality of life.
![Photo of Tamer Matta, MA, BScPh, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aa50aaae-4ca4-407e-9322-08c54e4eb2fa/2/320x400.jpeg)
Clients come to me saying "I am stuck", "I am unable to do anything" or "Life is so hard, I can't cope". As a goal-oriented therapist, I will help you identify the life scripts that are keeping you stuck in an unhealthy pattern. With that knowledge, you will then be able to start changing the harmful ways you have been operating.
Clients come to me saying "I am stuck", "I am unable to do anything" or "Life is so hard, I can't cope". As a goal-oriented therapist, I will help you identify the life scripts that are keeping you stuck in an unhealthy pattern. With that knowledge, you will then be able to start changing the harmful ways you have been operating.
![Photo of Anne Vickers, BA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a4f17871-30a6-420c-a8b7-fadd4ec0a2e3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome! I am an experienced psychotherapist of 21 years with experience in mental health, addiction, physical health trauma and family counselling. I work from a person-centred philosophy believing that strength lies within everyone, though sometimes it is hard to find. I work with clients in both short and longer-term capacities using a variety of methodologies. Most importantly, I am personable and respectful of the path you have travelled prior to initiating counselling. I look forward to meeting you and assisting you in establishing goals towards your personal growth.
Welcome! I am an experienced psychotherapist of 21 years with experience in mental health, addiction, physical health trauma and family counselling. I work from a person-centred philosophy believing that strength lies within everyone, though sometimes it is hard to find. I work with clients in both short and longer-term capacities using a variety of methodologies. Most importantly, I am personable and respectful of the path you have travelled prior to initiating counselling. I look forward to meeting you and assisting you in establishing goals towards your personal growth.
![Photo of Kaely Danahy, MScOT, Occupational Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d7d3d1e1-de98-4b71-833f-fad68a975144/2/320x400.jpeg)
I support adults with ADHD who want to lead meaningful, fulfilling lives. Adult ADHD can cause challenges with scheduling, time management, organization, relationships, and emotions. People can feel consistently behind, disorganized, overwhelmed, and easily frustrated. I help clients figure out what goals are most important to them, and we work together to organize the chaos so there is more time, energy, and patience for the things that really matter. You do not need an official ADHD diagnosis to work with me.
I support adults with ADHD who want to lead meaningful, fulfilling lives. Adult ADHD can cause challenges with scheduling, time management, organization, relationships, and emotions. People can feel consistently behind, disorganized, overwhelmed, and easily frustrated. I help clients figure out what goals are most important to them, and we work together to organize the chaos so there is more time, energy, and patience for the things that really matter. You do not need an official ADHD diagnosis to work with me.
![Photo of Philip Zbozny, MScOT, Occupational Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/84d4e057-3fe5-4ba7-a0a9-e954d7d959c5/1/320x400.jpeg)
A passion for supporting people, as an Occupational Therapist (OT) practicing in the field of mental health, I hope to aid those to improve self management, gain confidence and grow their independence to cope and manage with mental health developments. With a focus on skill development and coaching, I strive to support people through counseling who want to make a change. Common target areas include: Anxiety, Depression, BPD, Stress Management, ADHD, Productivity, Routine, Suicidal ideation/ self-harm, Relationship, and Return to School/work. Primarily I work with adolescence 16-30yrs of age but please do not hesitate to connect!
A passion for supporting people, as an Occupational Therapist (OT) practicing in the field of mental health, I hope to aid those to improve self management, gain confidence and grow their independence to cope and manage with mental health developments. With a focus on skill development and coaching, I strive to support people through counseling who want to make a change. Common target areas include: Anxiety, Depression, BPD, Stress Management, ADHD, Productivity, Routine, Suicidal ideation/ self-harm, Relationship, and Return to School/work. Primarily I work with adolescence 16-30yrs of age but please do not hesitate to connect!
See more therapy options for Oakville
Nearby Medication Management Counsellors Searches for Oakville
See More Medication Management CounsellorsMedication Management Counsellors
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 organiser can be useful for memory and organisation. 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 disorganisation 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.