Photo of Robyn Bennetts, Psychiatric Nurse in Seattle, WA
Robyn Bennetts
Psychiatric Nurse, MN, ARNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98168  (Online Only)
I provide brief supportive therapy and medication management.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with prescriptive authority for individuals of all ages. I have 18 years of experience in a variety of settings. I provide medication management with brief supportive therapy. My goal is to help people at all stages of development achieve their greatest potential. It is my strong belief that biology, psychology, and social circumstances shape our experiences and how we react to our environment.
I provide brief supportive therapy and medication management.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with prescriptive authority for individuals of all ages. I have 18 years of experience in a variety of settings. I provide medication management with brief supportive therapy. My goal is to help people at all stages of development achieve their greatest potential. It is my strong belief that biology, psychology, and social circumstances shape our experiences and how we react to our environment.
(425) 728-8214 View (425) 728-8214
Photo of Deborah Seidel ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Seattle, WA
Deborah Seidel ARNP
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, BC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98115
I have extensive experience in providing counseling, therapy and medication management to adults of all ages.
Welcome! I am looking forward to meeting you.I am a Board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. You may be considering therapy or medications because you are experiencing distress or dissatisfaction with some part of your life. I believe that I can help you to move through a challenging time by creating a safe place to talk about difficult situations. Therapy will be mutually designed to assst you to examing the cognitive, psychological and behavioral patterns that may interefere with your experiences of fulfillment in life. Sessions will be supportive and challenge you to examine your current life situation.
I have extensive experience in providing counseling, therapy and medication management to adults of all ages.
Welcome! I am looking forward to meeting you.I am a Board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. You may be considering therapy or medications because you are experiencing distress or dissatisfaction with some part of your life. I believe that I can help you to move through a challenging time by creating a safe place to talk about difficult situations. Therapy will be mutually designed to assst you to examing the cognitive, psychological and behavioral patterns that may interefere with your experiences of fulfillment in life. Sessions will be supportive and challenge you to examine your current life situation.
(206) 488-1693 View (206) 488-1693
Photo of Vernon LaFreniere, Psychiatric Nurse in Seattle, WA
Vernon LaFreniere
Psychiatric Nurse, ARNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98101
Are you feeling disconnected from your life? Overwhelmed with tasks which lead to little satisfaction? Does it seem like you are not enjoying activities that were once fun? Do you cry more often, feel like nothing can be done to fix your life, or feel disappointed when you wake up in the morning? I come through for people when they have been trying and are close to giving up. My main tool is Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, a new alternative to traditional therapy and medication management. You could finally feel like yourself again. Stop hiding how you feel and free yourself to project who you really are. Call us today.
Are you feeling disconnected from your life? Overwhelmed with tasks which lead to little satisfaction? Does it seem like you are not enjoying activities that were once fun? Do you cry more often, feel like nothing can be done to fix your life, or feel disappointed when you wake up in the morning? I come through for people when they have been trying and are close to giving up. My main tool is Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, a new alternative to traditional therapy and medication management. You could finally feel like yourself again. Stop hiding how you feel and free yourself to project who you really are. Call us today.
(206) 429-6872 View (206) 429-6872
Photo of Geoff Fong, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Seattle, WA
Geoff Fong
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MS, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98112
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 Marla Brucken, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Seattle, WA
Marla Brucken
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98133
As a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and medication management services to adults. My approach is to examine the biological, psychological, and social factors that may be contributing to your symptoms and work in partnership with you to suggest treatments or other interventions to address these factors. When medications are recommended, I prescribe conservatively and thoughtfully and use evidence- based guidelines to inform my practice. I understand that it can be difficult to reach out for help and I provide a nonjudgmental setting for you to share your challenges.
As a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and medication management services to adults. My approach is to examine the biological, psychological, and social factors that may be contributing to your symptoms and work in partnership with you to suggest treatments or other interventions to address these factors. When medications are recommended, I prescribe conservatively and thoughtfully and use evidence- based guidelines to inform my practice. I understand that it can be difficult to reach out for help and I provide a nonjudgmental setting for you to share your challenges.
(425) 490-4383 View (425) 490-4383
Photo of Hea W Shin, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Seattle, WA
Hea W Shin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119  (Online Only)
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who enjoys working with children, adolescents and adults. I believe each client needs individualized care, and approach every client with respect and nonjudgmental way. I provide combination of talk therapy, comprehensive evaluation, and medication management. *** Please make sure to contact the correct location, I do practice in two different states. Contact the one that you are currently permanently residing***
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who enjoys working with children, adolescents and adults. I believe each client needs individualized care, and approach every client with respect and nonjudgmental way. I provide combination of talk therapy, comprehensive evaluation, and medication management. *** Please make sure to contact the correct location, I do practice in two different states. Contact the one that you are currently permanently residing***
(972) 360-9649 View (972) 360-9649
Photo of Sonia Nikolova, Psychiatric Nurse in Seattle, WA
Sonia Nikolova
Psychiatric Nurse, MN, ARNP, ACT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98102
Accepting New Patients for Medication Management within 1-2 weeks. I offer an integrated approach of expert medication management and psychotherapy to adults. I will work with you towards clear goals to achieve mental wellness. I recommend medications if they are helpful for your healing, but I see them as only one part towards mental wellness. I aspire to create a sense of safety through empathy and non-judgment that will help us explore your challenges and facilitate healing.
Accepting New Patients for Medication Management within 1-2 weeks. I offer an integrated approach of expert medication management and psychotherapy to adults. I will work with you towards clear goals to achieve mental wellness. I recommend medications if they are helpful for your healing, but I see them as only one part towards mental wellness. I aspire to create a sense of safety through empathy and non-judgment that will help us explore your challenges and facilitate healing.
(206) 745-3021 View (206) 745-3021
Photo of Alexandra Scott, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Seattle, WA
Alexandra Scott
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98154  (Online Only)
My expertise encompasses evidence-based medication management, including ADHD evaluations, and treatment for conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, insomnia, OCD, and more.
As a certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), my commitment lies in delivering individualized, compassionate, and thorough mental health services. I work collaboratively with clients to address their specific needs and treatment objectives, offering flexibility through both in-person and virtual sessions.
My expertise encompasses evidence-based medication management, including ADHD evaluations, and treatment for conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, insomnia, OCD, and more.
As a certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), my commitment lies in delivering individualized, compassionate, and thorough mental health services. I work collaboratively with clients to address their specific needs and treatment objectives, offering flexibility through both in-person and virtual sessions.
(833) 705-0849 View (833) 705-0849
Photo of Taylor Fancher, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Seattle, WA
Taylor Fancher
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119
In addition to medication management, I focus on therapeutic interventions that are rooted in CBT.
Let's level with each other. You're struggling. Maybe you thought you could deal with it on your own. Maybe you thought you'd grow out of it. Maybe you feel like things shouldn't constantly be so hard. You're irritated, distracted, overwhelmed and feeling low. Your moods are anything but stable. You try to help yourself but nothing is working and you can't catch a break. You're not convinced therapy could help. Maybe you're nervous about the idea of medication. Maybe you feel misunderstood and unheard. You feel like no one will actually listen to you or consider what you want and need.
In addition to medication management, I focus on therapeutic interventions that are rooted in CBT.
Let's level with each other. You're struggling. Maybe you thought you could deal with it on your own. Maybe you thought you'd grow out of it. Maybe you feel like things shouldn't constantly be so hard. You're irritated, distracted, overwhelmed and feeling low. Your moods are anything but stable. You try to help yourself but nothing is working and you can't catch a break. You're not convinced therapy could help. Maybe you're nervous about the idea of medication. Maybe you feel misunderstood and unheard. You feel like no one will actually listen to you or consider what you want and need.
(425) 640-7009 View (425) 640-7009
Photo of Abigail A Enelow Myers, Psychiatric Nurse in Seattle, WA
Abigail A Enelow Myers
Psychiatric Nurse, MN, ARNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103  (Online Only)
In addition to reproductive mental health, I offer counseling/therapy and medication management for women with a variety of mood and adjustment issues.
I specialize in Reproductive Mental Health which includes mental health challenges during the particularly high risk times across a woman's lifespan; pms, perinatal (antenatal, pregnancy and postpartum), perimenopause/menopause. In addition to working with pregnant and new moms, I work with women experiencing the challenges of parenting, couple transition to parenting and midlife challenges. These highly vulnerable times require compassion and support which I provide through counseling/therapy and if warranted, medication. Social support is a very effective means for getting better. Resources will be provided.
In addition to reproductive mental health, I offer counseling/therapy and medication management for women with a variety of mood and adjustment issues.
I specialize in Reproductive Mental Health which includes mental health challenges during the particularly high risk times across a woman's lifespan; pms, perinatal (antenatal, pregnancy and postpartum), perimenopause/menopause. In addition to working with pregnant and new moms, I work with women experiencing the challenges of parenting, couple transition to parenting and midlife challenges. These highly vulnerable times require compassion and support which I provide through counseling/therapy and if warranted, medication. Social support is a very effective means for getting better. Resources will be provided.
(206) 735-4912 View (206) 735-4912
Photo of Michael Van Gelder, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Seattle, WA
Michael Van Gelder
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, MN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103
I provide psychiatric assessments in order to diagnose and treat a variety of mental illness via medication management.
I am a board certified Psych Nurse Practitioner. Whether you are interested in finding a medication prescriber who can continue a treatment regimen that is already working well or seeking psychiatric services for the first time, I am excited to work with you to achieve your goals. My expertise includes treating patients with depression, anxiety disorders, and ADHD. I may refer out for extra therapy as needed. Note, I am unable to manage active psychosis, personality disorders, or suicidality at this time. I do not prescribe Benzodiazepines or pain medications. I work with Ages 18 to 60.
I provide psychiatric assessments in order to diagnose and treat a variety of mental illness via medication management.
I am a board certified Psych Nurse Practitioner. Whether you are interested in finding a medication prescriber who can continue a treatment regimen that is already working well or seeking psychiatric services for the first time, I am excited to work with you to achieve your goals. My expertise includes treating patients with depression, anxiety disorders, and ADHD. I may refer out for extra therapy as needed. Note, I am unable to manage active psychosis, personality disorders, or suicidality at this time. I do not prescribe Benzodiazepines or pain medications. I work with Ages 18 to 60.
(509) 498-6388 View (509) 498-6388
Photo of Queen Idowu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Seattle, WA
Queen Idowu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, AGNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98121
I specialize in assessing, diagnosing and treating various mental health conditions and conducting medication management.
As a double board-certified Lifespan Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) & Adult-Geriatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGNP), I have a commitment to providing comprehensive care to individuals with complex psychiatric conditions. With over 13 years of experience in the medical and psychiatric fields, I have the expertise in treating a diverse range of patients. With my extensive medical & psychiatric knowledge, I take a biopsychosocial holistic approach to provide a package of medication management and group therapy for various conditions. Feel free to ask about my group therapy sessions!
I specialize in assessing, diagnosing and treating various mental health conditions and conducting medication management.
As a double board-certified Lifespan Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) & Adult-Geriatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGNP), I have a commitment to providing comprehensive care to individuals with complex psychiatric conditions. With over 13 years of experience in the medical and psychiatric fields, I have the expertise in treating a diverse range of patients. With my extensive medical & psychiatric knowledge, I take a biopsychosocial holistic approach to provide a package of medication management and group therapy for various conditions. Feel free to ask about my group therapy sessions!
(346) 384-8922 View (346) 384-8922
Photo of Olivier Djoumessi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Seattle, WA
Olivier Djoumessi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98104
I offer comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, thoughtful medication management, and nurturing, supportive psychotherapy—welcoming children aged six and up, adolescents, adults, and veterans.
Olivier is a compassionate, patient-focused, board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with nine years of experience providing mental health services in acute and outpatient settings. Mental health problems can affect your sleep, thoughts, processing information, perceiving events or other people, handling stress, making decisions, and interacting with your friends and loved ones. Your feelings are valid, so please do not feel shame or compare your struggle with anyone else's. Accepting new patients.....Book your Appointment.
I offer comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, thoughtful medication management, and nurturing, supportive psychotherapy—welcoming children aged six and up, adolescents, adults, and veterans.
Olivier is a compassionate, patient-focused, board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with nine years of experience providing mental health services in acute and outpatient settings. Mental health problems can affect your sleep, thoughts, processing information, perceiving events or other people, handling stress, making decisions, and interacting with your friends and loved ones. Your feelings are valid, so please do not feel shame or compare your struggle with anyone else's. Accepting new patients.....Book your Appointment.
(509) 519-4945 View (509) 519-4945
Photo of Dr. Sean Ziegler, Psychiatrist in Seattle, WA
Dr. Sean Ziegler
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103
Immediate availability for medication management (virtual or in Spokane), or TMS services (Spokane only). Hello, I am Dr. Sean Ziegler. I am a board certified psychiatrist, seeing adults in Washington. I strive to provide professional, compassionate, high quality individualized care. Disruptions to your well being often involve a combination of social, biologic, and psychological factors. We will identify and address what can be changed. It might be difficult to fit an appointment in your busy day; I offer early morning, evening, and weekend hours. I do have an office available if an in person visit is needed.
Immediate availability for medication management (virtual or in Spokane), or TMS services (Spokane only). Hello, I am Dr. Sean Ziegler. I am a board certified psychiatrist, seeing adults in Washington. I strive to provide professional, compassionate, high quality individualized care. Disruptions to your well being often involve a combination of social, biologic, and psychological factors. We will identify and address what can be changed. It might be difficult to fit an appointment in your busy day; I offer early morning, evening, and weekend hours. I do have an office available if an in person visit is needed.
(509) 816-4000 View (509) 816-4000
Photo of Berenese B Canady, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Seattle, WA
Berenese B Canady
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98101
Dr Canady is experienced in diagnosis, treatment, &medication management of psychiatric illnesses, and dual diagnosis with cooccurring substance use.
Mobile Psych is a psychiatric practice established by Alfonso Canady and Dr Berenese Canady, DNP with a goal of providing compassionate and affordable mental health treatment. We take time to understand your needs, and partner with you to develop a course of treatment to help you function at your best. Situated in East Memphis, we are conveniently located near the I-240 and Popular Ave exit, with easy access.
Dr Canady is experienced in diagnosis, treatment, &medication management of psychiatric illnesses, and dual diagnosis with cooccurring substance use.
Mobile Psych is a psychiatric practice established by Alfonso Canady and Dr Berenese Canady, DNP with a goal of providing compassionate and affordable mental health treatment. We take time to understand your needs, and partner with you to develop a course of treatment to help you function at your best. Situated in East Memphis, we are conveniently located near the I-240 and Popular Ave exit, with easy access.
(901) 289-9665 View (901) 289-9665
Photo of Jong Oh, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Seattle, WA
Jong Oh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98101
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 Radiant Path Psychiatry PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Seattle, WA
Radiant Path Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, CARN-AP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98112  (Online Only)
Accepting New Patients: I’m a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 30 years’ experience in healthcare. I treat Children ages from 8 years old up and Adults with a focus on Psychiatric Medication Management. I take a “start low and go slow” approach to prescribing, paying special attention to medication potency and potential interactions with other medications prescribed by other providers. I also believe “knowledge is power,” so together, we spend time on education and explanation so that you understand the recommendations provided and you are fully comfortable with the treatment plan.
Accepting New Patients: I’m a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 30 years’ experience in healthcare. I treat Children ages from 8 years old up and Adults with a focus on Psychiatric Medication Management. I take a “start low and go slow” approach to prescribing, paying special attention to medication potency and potential interactions with other medications prescribed by other providers. I also believe “knowledge is power,” so together, we spend time on education and explanation so that you understand the recommendations provided and you are fully comfortable with the treatment plan.
(509) 204-8660 View (509) 204-8660
Photo of Nina Chandler, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Seattle, WA
Nina Chandler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98101  (Online Only)
Through secure video, provides medication management, including switching or coming off medication, assessment, diagnosis, and non-pharmacological treatment of mental health concerns.
Nina Chandler provides comprehensive psychiatric care for all ages, focusing on wellness and collaboration, and has expertise in women’s mental health, especially postpartum mood disorders, adolescent mental health, depression, anxiety, OCD, Bipolar Spectrum Disorders, and management of severe and persistent mental health conditions.
Through secure video, provides medication management, including switching or coming off medication, assessment, diagnosis, and non-pharmacological treatment of mental health concerns.
Nina Chandler provides comprehensive psychiatric care for all ages, focusing on wellness and collaboration, and has expertise in women’s mental health, especially postpartum mood disorders, adolescent mental health, depression, anxiety, OCD, Bipolar Spectrum Disorders, and management of severe and persistent mental health conditions.
(425) 584-5462 View (425) 584-5462
Photo of Genuine Healthcare, PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Seattle, WA
Genuine Healthcare, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98105
Whether you're looking for a psychiatric evaluation and medication management, or new innovative treatments like TMS and Spravato, we're here to guide you step by step to reach your desired results.
Now accepting new patients! Genuine Healthcare is proud to serve a diverse population of mental health clients. We see patients from all walks of life and in all age groups, providing support for children as young as six years old. By offering our appointments both in person or via telemedicine, we are able to serve a wider community across the state of Washington. We value the importance of building a strong patient-provider relationship, which is why we have four providers from various backgrounds so that you may find one who fits your specific needs. To explore our providers' bios, visit the About Us section of our website.
Whether you're looking for a psychiatric evaluation and medication management, or new innovative treatments like TMS and Spravato, we're here to guide you step by step to reach your desired results.
Now accepting new patients! Genuine Healthcare is proud to serve a diverse population of mental health clients. We see patients from all walks of life and in all age groups, providing support for children as young as six years old. By offering our appointments both in person or via telemedicine, we are able to serve a wider community across the state of Washington. We value the importance of building a strong patient-provider relationship, which is why we have four providers from various backgrounds so that you may find one who fits your specific needs. To explore our providers' bios, visit the About Us section of our website.
(360) 515-4388 View (360) 515-4388
Photo of Michelle Zipperman, Psychiatrist in Seattle, WA
Michelle Zipperman
Psychiatrist, MD, MS
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103
Dr. Zipperman is a Board Certified Psychiatrist graduating from the University of Washington Psychiatry Residency and Loma Linda School of Medicine. Balanced Living Psychiatry is built on the understanding that happiness, peace of mind, and overall wellness is found at the intersection of healthy living, strong coping skills/ self-care, insight oriented therapy and psychiatric medications. Dr. Zipperman adopts the approach of integrative psychiatry, providing medication management and psychotherapy interventions but also building a team of providers for her patients including highly specialized psychotherapists, yoga/mindfulness/meditation teachers, Naturopathic Doctors, and the patient's own Primary Care Physicians.
Dr. Zipperman is a Board Certified Psychiatrist graduating from the University of Washington Psychiatry Residency and Loma Linda School of Medicine. Balanced Living Psychiatry is built on the understanding that happiness, peace of mind, and overall wellness is found at the intersection of healthy living, strong coping skills/ self-care, insight oriented therapy and psychiatric medications. Dr. Zipperman adopts the approach of integrative psychiatry, providing medication management and psychotherapy interventions but also building a team of providers for her patients including highly specialized psychotherapists, yoga/mindfulness/meditation teachers, Naturopathic Doctors, and the patient's own Primary Care Physicians.
(206) 914-9254 View (206) 914-9254
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.