Photo of Betsy LaRose - SMPsychotherapy & Counseling Services , APRN, PCCN, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
SMPsychotherapy & Counseling Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PCCN, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Fairfield, CT 06430
At SMPsychotherapy and Counseling Services, we provide compassionate therapy and medication management services to individuals with depression, anxiety, bipolar, and other mental health conditions.
Have you tried medications for mental health conditions without success? Do you feel your medication prescriber doesn’t spend enough time with you? You want someone who will take a holistic approach when prescribing your mental health medications and listen to your experience and concerns about side effects. You want to manage your mental health conditions and get back to building the life you want. What if you could find a mental health practice that combines best practices in medication management with comprehensive therapy services? We’d be honored to help you achieve mental wellness.
At SMPsychotherapy and Counseling Services, we provide compassionate therapy and medication management services to individuals with depression, anxiety, bipolar, and other mental health conditions.
Have you tried medications for mental health conditions without success? Do you feel your medication prescriber doesn’t spend enough time with you? You want someone who will take a holistic approach when prescribing your mental health medications and listen to your experience and concerns about side effects. You want to manage your mental health conditions and get back to building the life you want. What if you could find a mental health practice that combines best practices in medication management with comprehensive therapy services? We’d be honored to help you achieve mental wellness.
(203) 769-9298 View (203) 769-9298
Photo of George J Costanzo, DC APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
George J Costanzo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DC APRN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fairfield, CT 06824  (Online Only)
At CCPW, we offer the very best in holistic and responsible medication management.
I'm a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (APRN), licensed to prescribe psychiatric medication across the lifespan. At our practice, we collaborate with patients and their therapists to use medications conservatively, while always incorporating holistic methods to assist in recovery. I have 30 years of experience as a chiropractor, treating patients without the use of medication. Now, with the ability to prescribe medication, I carry with me the philosophy that judicious medication use is key in treatment plans. My strength is in adolescents, adults and geriatric patients.
At CCPW, we offer the very best in holistic and responsible medication management.
I'm a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (APRN), licensed to prescribe psychiatric medication across the lifespan. At our practice, we collaborate with patients and their therapists to use medications conservatively, while always incorporating holistic methods to assist in recovery. I have 30 years of experience as a chiropractor, treating patients without the use of medication. Now, with the ability to prescribe medication, I carry with me the philosophy that judicious medication use is key in treatment plans. My strength is in adolescents, adults and geriatric patients.
(203) 680-0030 View (203) 680-0030
Photo of Avi Mitra, MD, MS, FAPA, Psychiatrist
Avi Mitra
Psychiatrist, MD, MS, FAPA
Verified Verified
Fairfield, CT 06824
Medication Management combined with therapy.
I am a Mayo Clinic trained Adult Psychiatrist. I have trained in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at Yale University's Child Study Center. I have 19 years of experience practicing Adult, Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I am a Fellow of the American Psychiatry Association.
Medication Management combined with therapy.
I am a Mayo Clinic trained Adult Psychiatrist. I have trained in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at Yale University's Child Study Center. I have 19 years of experience practicing Adult, Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I am a Fellow of the American Psychiatry Association.
(203) 590-5778 View (203) 590-5778
Photo of Vanja Kondev - Vanja Kondev MD LLC, MD, Psychiatrist
Vanja Kondev MD LLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Fairfield, CT 06430
I recognize that there are often a lot of questions surrounding medication management.
Do you want to reclaim your sense of joy, fulfillment, and purpose in life? Do you want relief from the overwhelming burden of anxiety and depression, as well as the ability to navigate challenges with resilience and grace? I offer professional help to address your mental health concerns and we are motivated to embark on a journey of self-discovery and healing alongside you.
I recognize that there are often a lot of questions surrounding medication management.
Do you want to reclaim your sense of joy, fulfillment, and purpose in life? Do you want relief from the overwhelming burden of anxiety and depression, as well as the ability to navigate challenges with resilience and grace? I offer professional help to address your mental health concerns and we are motivated to embark on a journey of self-discovery and healing alongside you.
(475) 271-1515 View (475) 271-1515
Photo of Mohamed Elsamra - Intensive Outpatient Program and Outpatient Detox, MD, Psychiatrist
Intensive Outpatient Program and Outpatient Detox
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Fairfield, CT 06824
I've been working as a Board Certified Psychiatrist for over 15 years, and throughout that time I've been most interested in working with individuals who struggle with addiction or co-occurring illnesses. I am able to provide my clients with outpatient detoxification from alcohol and opioids as long as safety criteria are met. Evidence shows people are most likely to achieve recovery through a combination of medications and counseling. When you come to Elevate, you can have all of your needs met under one roof: Medication Management, Outpatient Detox, Individual Therapy, Group Therapy and IOP.
I've been working as a Board Certified Psychiatrist for over 15 years, and throughout that time I've been most interested in working with individuals who struggle with addiction or co-occurring illnesses. I am able to provide my clients with outpatient detoxification from alcohol and opioids as long as safety criteria are met. Evidence shows people are most likely to achieve recovery through a combination of medications and counseling. When you come to Elevate, you can have all of your needs met under one roof: Medication Management, Outpatient Detox, Individual Therapy, Group Therapy and IOP.
(203) 347-2484 View (203) 347-2484
Photo of Bridgitte F Ackeifi - Mental Health and Psychiatry Services MHPS, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mental Health and Psychiatry Services MHPS
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Fairfield, CT 06824  (Online Only)
Accepting NEW Patients: Appointments go to www.mhpspsych.com, call or email. Bridgitte F. Ackeifi APRN, PMHNP-BC holistically works with patients and their families with mental health and substance use illnesses to create an individualized treatment plan using evidence-based research, and a patient-centered approach with the use of medication management, medication-assisted treatment (MAT) and encourages psychotherapy as needed to promote function, increase potential, decrease symptoms/hospitalizations, empowering, and instilling more hope, positivity, support, and love, healing one patient, one day at a time. Thank you.
Accepting NEW Patients: Appointments go to www.mhpspsych.com, call or email. Bridgitte F. Ackeifi APRN, PMHNP-BC holistically works with patients and their families with mental health and substance use illnesses to create an individualized treatment plan using evidence-based research, and a patient-centered approach with the use of medication management, medication-assisted treatment (MAT) and encourages psychotherapy as needed to promote function, increase potential, decrease symptoms/hospitalizations, empowering, and instilling more hope, positivity, support, and love, healing one patient, one day at a time. Thank you.
(860) 846-3775 View (860) 846-3775
Photo of Dayna Leigh Giordano, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dayna Leigh Giordano
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfield, CT 06430
My realization from working with mental health, addiction & chronic pain plays an enormous role in my patient's quality of life. I combine my knowledge with strict protocols to keep my patients free of pain without the stigma of addiction. I am also looking at the most innovative new treatments for treatment resistant depression (Esketamine and ketamine troches) and Buprenorphine for chronic pain, Alpha-stim for anxiety, depression, & insomnia and NextWave device for chronic debilitating pelvic floor pain. Call for evaluation today! Open Mon-Thursday 10-6 pm. daynagiordanoaprn@gmail.com. Office 203-481-5556 fax 203-481-5553.
My realization from working with mental health, addiction & chronic pain plays an enormous role in my patient's quality of life. I combine my knowledge with strict protocols to keep my patients free of pain without the stigma of addiction. I am also looking at the most innovative new treatments for treatment resistant depression (Esketamine and ketamine troches) and Buprenorphine for chronic pain, Alpha-stim for anxiety, depression, & insomnia and NextWave device for chronic debilitating pelvic floor pain. Call for evaluation today! Open Mon-Thursday 10-6 pm. daynagiordanoaprn@gmail.com. Office 203-481-5556 fax 203-481-5553.
(203) 481-5556 View (203) 481-5556
Photo of Despina O’Doherty - Mind Matters Therapeutics, PMHNP, AGNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mind Matters Therapeutics
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AGNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfield, CT 06825
Common complaints: "my doctor doesn't listen to me"; "nobody told me or explained it to me"; "I can never get a hold of my provider". I listen. I spend the extra time to explain and teach how your diagnosis works with the chemicals in your mind and how your medications work to balance you. We make decisions together. I follow up when I say I will. I am very thorough; I use evidence-based measurements to identify diagnoses, and no stone is left unturned. You deserve answers, patience, respect, and discretion.
Common complaints: "my doctor doesn't listen to me"; "nobody told me or explained it to me"; "I can never get a hold of my provider". I listen. I spend the extra time to explain and teach how your diagnosis works with the chemicals in your mind and how your medications work to balance you. We make decisions together. I follow up when I say I will. I am very thorough; I use evidence-based measurements to identify diagnoses, and no stone is left unturned. You deserve answers, patience, respect, and discretion.
(475) 471-1755 View (475) 471-1755
Photo of Janet Rivera, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Janet Rivera
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fairfield, CT 06824  (Online Only)
As Doctors of Nursing Practice (DNP), Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners (PMHNP) licensed to prescribe psychiatric medication across the lifespan, we collaborate with patients and their therapists to use medications judiciously, and only when necessary. As practitioners, we value our shared humanity, and encourage compassion, humility, connection and empathy. Please reach out to us directly by email to begin the enrollment process and to schedule an evaluation time, thank you.
As Doctors of Nursing Practice (DNP), Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners (PMHNP) licensed to prescribe psychiatric medication across the lifespan, we collaborate with patients and their therapists to use medications judiciously, and only when necessary. As practitioners, we value our shared humanity, and encourage compassion, humility, connection and empathy. Please reach out to us directly by email to begin the enrollment process and to schedule an evaluation time, thank you.
(203) 871-0775 View (203) 871-0775

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Cynthia Chouinard - CRB Psychiatry, MSN, APRN, PHMNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
CRB Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PHMNP
Verified Verified
Westport, CT 06880  (Online Only)
I specialize in trauma, insomnia, OCD, ADHD, anxiety, depression, addiction, and medication management.
My name is Cynthia Roman-Chouinard, a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I'm committed to collaborating with you on your mental health journey. I believe in a holistic approach to mental health, incorporating physical health, lifestyle changes, and mental well-being into your treatment plan. We'll communicate openly about your needs and challenges and explore various therapeutic modalities to achieve your treatment goals.
I specialize in trauma, insomnia, OCD, ADHD, anxiety, depression, addiction, and medication management.
My name is Cynthia Roman-Chouinard, a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I'm committed to collaborating with you on your mental health journey. I believe in a holistic approach to mental health, incorporating physical health, lifestyle changes, and mental well-being into your treatment plan. We'll communicate openly about your needs and challenges and explore various therapeutic modalities to achieve your treatment goals.
(860) 813-3144 View (860) 813-3144
Photo of Jaclyn Birn - Elevate Health and Wellness, BC-APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Elevate Health and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BC-APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westport, CT 06880
Together, we will consider all aspects of your life - emotions, thoughts, behaviors, relationships, lifestyle - and develop the right medication management regimen.
My ideal client is anyone and everyone, especially those that have felt overlooked, misunderstood and/or marginalized by previous providers. You want someone who genuinely cares, listens and is rooting for you. Healing is a journey of self-discovery. I am here as your partner, supporting you each step of the way towards reaching your own definition of balanced mental health and fulfillment. Your voice, your experiences, and your priorities drive my care. Let's walk this path together. Working with: depression, anxiety disorders, OCD, trauma and post-traumatic stress, gender identity, attention challenges. LGBTQIA+ affirming.
Together, we will consider all aspects of your life - emotions, thoughts, behaviors, relationships, lifestyle - and develop the right medication management regimen.
My ideal client is anyone and everyone, especially those that have felt overlooked, misunderstood and/or marginalized by previous providers. You want someone who genuinely cares, listens and is rooting for you. Healing is a journey of self-discovery. I am here as your partner, supporting you each step of the way towards reaching your own definition of balanced mental health and fulfillment. Your voice, your experiences, and your priorities drive my care. Let's walk this path together. Working with: depression, anxiety disorders, OCD, trauma and post-traumatic stress, gender identity, attention challenges. LGBTQIA+ affirming.
(475) 252-5193 View (475) 252-5193
Photo of George Ramos, FNP, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
George Ramos
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, DNP
Verified Verified
Stratford, CT 06614  (Online Only)
George uses collaborative, solution-focused, and evidence-based research in medication management while maintaining flexibility, patience, and professionalism to meet the needs of every unique individual.
George Ramos is a highly motivated double board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner passionate about holistic and patient-centered care. George has experience working in community health clinics, nursing homes, inpatient settings (Yale New Haven Hospital), and private practices. Depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar, insomnia, substance use, schizophrenia, and PTSD are some of his specialties.
George uses collaborative, solution-focused, and evidence-based research in medication management while maintaining flexibility, patience, and professionalism to meet the needs of every unique individual.
George Ramos is a highly motivated double board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner passionate about holistic and patient-centered care. George has experience working in community health clinics, nursing homes, inpatient settings (Yale New Haven Hospital), and private practices. Depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar, insomnia, substance use, schizophrenia, and PTSD are some of his specialties.
(475) 473-9583 View (475) 473-9583
Photo of Sarah Phillips, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sarah Phillips
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Norwalk, CT 06851  (Online Only)
Get personalized online counseling and virtual medication management for various challenges.
NOW Accepting New Patients! Have you been a victim of a traumatic event that has left you with symptoms of PTSD? Do you suffer from anxiety, depression, parenting problems, postpartum, school issues, chronic illness, or stress that impacts your sleep that results in insomnia? Whether you tried ignoring it, talking with friends & family, or even reading self-help books, nothing seems to be working. Maybe it’s time to get some professional help today. The first step towards making a change is to acknowledge that you need help. The next step is to continue reading so you can learn more about how you can get that help now.
Get personalized online counseling and virtual medication management for various challenges.
NOW Accepting New Patients! Have you been a victim of a traumatic event that has left you with symptoms of PTSD? Do you suffer from anxiety, depression, parenting problems, postpartum, school issues, chronic illness, or stress that impacts your sleep that results in insomnia? Whether you tried ignoring it, talking with friends & family, or even reading self-help books, nothing seems to be working. Maybe it’s time to get some professional help today. The first step towards making a change is to acknowledge that you need help. The next step is to continue reading so you can learn more about how you can get that help now.
(860) 898-9216 View (860) 898-9216
Photo of Bridgitte F Ackeifi - Mental Health and Psychiatry Services MHPS, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mental Health and Psychiatry Services MHPS
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Norwalk, CT 06850  (Online Only)
Appointments go to www.mhpspsych.com, call or email. Bridgitte F. Ackeifi APRN, PMHNP-BC Mental Health and Psychiatry Services MHPS holistically work with patients and their families with mental health and substance use illnesses to create an individualized treatment plan using evidence-based research, and a patient-centered approach with the use of medication management, medication-assisted treatment (MAT) and encourages psychotherapy as needed to promote function, increase potential, decrease symptoms/hospitalizations, empowering, and instilling more hope, positivity, support, and love, healing one patient, one day at a time.
Appointments go to www.mhpspsych.com, call or email. Bridgitte F. Ackeifi APRN, PMHNP-BC Mental Health and Psychiatry Services MHPS holistically work with patients and their families with mental health and substance use illnesses to create an individualized treatment plan using evidence-based research, and a patient-centered approach with the use of medication management, medication-assisted treatment (MAT) and encourages psychotherapy as needed to promote function, increase potential, decrease symptoms/hospitalizations, empowering, and instilling more hope, positivity, support, and love, healing one patient, one day at a time.
(203) 935-8632 View (203) 935-8632
Photo of Emily Garber - Emily Garber APRN pllc, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Emily Garber APRN pllc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Trumbull, CT 06611
I am a dual board certified adult health and psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner with extensive experience in psychiatric medication management.
We often go through mental and physical challenges in life that require additional support to maximize our well-being. This practice seeks to look at the whole person and provide both lifestyle coaching as well as medication options to allow patients to be their best selves. Please note that I am not accepting new patients for the treatment of ADHD and do not prescribe benzodiazepines or stimulants (including Adderall, Ritalin, Focalin, Concerta, Vyvanse, Klonopin, Xanax, Valium, Ativan and other similar medications).
I am a dual board certified adult health and psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner with extensive experience in psychiatric medication management.
We often go through mental and physical challenges in life that require additional support to maximize our well-being. This practice seeks to look at the whole person and provide both lifestyle coaching as well as medication options to allow patients to be their best selves. Please note that I am not accepting new patients for the treatment of ADHD and do not prescribe benzodiazepines or stimulants (including Adderall, Ritalin, Focalin, Concerta, Vyvanse, Klonopin, Xanax, Valium, Ativan and other similar medications).
(203) 551-4173 View (203) 551-4173
Photo of Ruslan Berdichevsky - MYM Child & Adult Psychiatry, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
MYM Child & Adult Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bridgeport, CT 06604  (Online Only)
Our Goal is to find the right balance between your need for appropriate therapeutic interventions and safe medication management for struggles with Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, Mood Disturbances, Sleep Challenges, Obsessive-Compulsive, Trauma & Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Our Goal is to find the right balance between your need for appropriate therapeutic interventions and safe medication management for struggles with Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, Mood Disturbances, Sleep Challenges, Obsessive-Compulsive, Trauma & Autism Spectrum Disorder.
(475) 253-5839 View (475) 253-5839
Irene Topping
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Westport, CT 06881  (Online Only)
Get personalized online counseling and virtual medication management for various challenges.
NOW Accepting New Patients! Have you been a victim of a traumatic event that has left you with symptoms of PTSD? Do you suffer from anxiety, depression, parenting problems, postpartum, school issues, chronic illness, or stress that impacts your sleep that results in insomnia? Whether you tried ignoring it, talking with friends & family, or even reading self-help books, nothing seems to be working. Maybe it’s time to get some professional help today. The first step towards making a change is to acknowledge that you need help. The next step is to continue reading so you can learn more about how you can get that help now.
Get personalized online counseling and virtual medication management for various challenges.
NOW Accepting New Patients! Have you been a victim of a traumatic event that has left you with symptoms of PTSD? Do you suffer from anxiety, depression, parenting problems, postpartum, school issues, chronic illness, or stress that impacts your sleep that results in insomnia? Whether you tried ignoring it, talking with friends & family, or even reading self-help books, nothing seems to be working. Maybe it’s time to get some professional help today. The first step towards making a change is to acknowledge that you need help. The next step is to continue reading so you can learn more about how you can get that help now.
(475) 262-9657 View (475) 262-9657
Photo of Monica Starr, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Monica Starr
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Southport, CT 06890
The current focus of my practice is medication management for symptoms of depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD and other mood disorders.
When seeking care for your mental health needs it is important to find a practitioner with advanced training and board certification in Psychiatry. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner licensed to prescribe psychiatric medication to adults. As a nurse in the mental health field for over 30 years, I pride myself as a patient, empathic and introspective practitioner who views clients in a holistic manner.
The current focus of my practice is medication management for symptoms of depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD and other mood disorders.
When seeking care for your mental health needs it is important to find a practitioner with advanced training and board certification in Psychiatry. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner licensed to prescribe psychiatric medication to adults. As a nurse in the mental health field for over 30 years, I pride myself as a patient, empathic and introspective practitioner who views clients in a holistic manner.
(475) 445-2874 View (475) 445-2874
Photo of Patrick Tigenoah - Tri-Star Behavioral Health Inc, FPMHNP, MSN, APRN, ANCC-BC, BSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tri-Star Behavioral Health Inc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FPMHNP, MSN, APRN, ANCC-BC, BSN
Verified Verified
Westport, CT 06880
I am a Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is Board Certified. I have expertise in providing Psychiatric Assessments, Medication Management, Individual and Family Psychotherapy. I specialize in Child/Adolescent, Young Adults, Adults and the Geriatric Population. Majority of my training and clinical experience has been at Bellevue Hospital, VA Hospitals and the Prison System.
I am a Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is Board Certified. I have expertise in providing Psychiatric Assessments, Medication Management, Individual and Family Psychotherapy. I specialize in Child/Adolescent, Young Adults, Adults and the Geriatric Population. Majority of my training and clinical experience has been at Bellevue Hospital, VA Hospitals and the Prison System.
(646) 863-4287 View (646) 863-4287
Photo of Carine Jean, MD, Psychiatrist
Carine Jean
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Trumbull, CT 06611
I am a Yale trained psychiatrist, board certified in general and addiction psychiatry. I am also board certified in addiction medicine and a certified provider of Suboxone. I have extensive experience treating co-occurring disorders and chronic mental illnesses. I provide medication management for mental illnesses including: schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, panic disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder, post partum depression, post traumatic stress disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and obsessive compulsive disorder. I treat young adults, adults and elders.
I am a Yale trained psychiatrist, board certified in general and addiction psychiatry. I am also board certified in addiction medicine and a certified provider of Suboxone. I have extensive experience treating co-occurring disorders and chronic mental illnesses. I provide medication management for mental illnesses including: schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, panic disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder, post partum depression, post traumatic stress disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and obsessive compulsive disorder. I treat young adults, adults and elders.
(203) 493-0478 View (203) 493-0478

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.