Photo of Elizabeth Milburn, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Philadelphia, PA
Elizabeth Milburn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19102
I love working with any individual 18 and older who is experiencing difficulty with their mental well-being. My services include psychiatric evaluation, medication management, and meds + supportive therapy. I am an ally to the LGBTQIA+ community. I encourage folks to be active collaborators in their treatment. I am happy to now offer medication treatment for opioid use disorder.
I love working with any individual 18 and older who is experiencing difficulty with their mental well-being. My services include psychiatric evaluation, medication management, and meds + supportive therapy. I am an ally to the LGBTQIA+ community. I encourage folks to be active collaborators in their treatment. I am happy to now offer medication treatment for opioid use disorder.
(267) 460-4536 View (267) 460-4536
Photo of Cristina Lanzillotta, Psychiatrist in Philadelphia, PA
Cristina Lanzillotta
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Not accepting new clients
As a UPenn-trained psychiatrist, I work with you to craft a personalized treatment strategy, which may include medication, psychotherapy, or a combination of both. My commitment is to establish a lasting, trusted partnership with you aimed at enriching your overall well-being. Together, we collaborate to create a plan tailored to meet your unique needs and circumstances.
As a UPenn-trained psychiatrist, I work with you to craft a personalized treatment strategy, which may include medication, psychotherapy, or a combination of both. My commitment is to establish a lasting, trusted partnership with you aimed at enriching your overall well-being. Together, we collaborate to create a plan tailored to meet your unique needs and circumstances.
(484) 372-4599 View (484) 372-4599
Photo of Dr. David L. Lopez / Cornell Affiliated, Psychiatrist in Philadelphia, PA
Dr. David L. Lopez / Cornell Affiliated
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA, DFAACAP, Cornell, Faculty
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Cornell and Columbia trained, Dr. Lopez does not believe in one-size-fits-all treatments. He is a Distinguished Fellow of the national Child and Adolescent Psychiatry society (AACAP) and believes in down-to-earth approaches that really make sense. Dr. Lopez is also an adult psychotherapist with years of training in the most in-depth psychotherapies. He provides interventions that have clear results. A Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association (APA), he has taught at Cornell and Columbia specialized programs for more than 15 years. He now brings to Philadelphia the latest knowledge to help kids, parents, and adult patients.
Cornell and Columbia trained, Dr. Lopez does not believe in one-size-fits-all treatments. He is a Distinguished Fellow of the national Child and Adolescent Psychiatry society (AACAP) and believes in down-to-earth approaches that really make sense. Dr. Lopez is also an adult psychotherapist with years of training in the most in-depth psychotherapies. He provides interventions that have clear results. A Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association (APA), he has taught at Cornell and Columbia specialized programs for more than 15 years. He now brings to Philadelphia the latest knowledge to help kids, parents, and adult patients.
(215) 650-8406 View (215) 650-8406
Photo of Rachel Reis, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Philadelphia, PA
Rachel Reis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19102
Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates offers virtual and in-office appts. As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, my goal is to facilitate overall wellness and quality of life for those struggling with their mental health, through the application of evidence-based interventions including medication management and supportive psychotherapy. Fundamental to my practice is truly listening to what an individual is communicating, relieving them of their burden of struggling alone. I strive for a genuine partnership in treatment, encouraging individuals to take an active role in their care, facilitating resilience and growth.
Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates offers virtual and in-office appts. As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, my goal is to facilitate overall wellness and quality of life for those struggling with their mental health, through the application of evidence-based interventions including medication management and supportive psychotherapy. Fundamental to my practice is truly listening to what an individual is communicating, relieving them of their burden of struggling alone. I strive for a genuine partnership in treatment, encouraging individuals to take an active role in their care, facilitating resilience and growth.
(215) 515-7870 x5 View (215) 515-7870 x5
Photo of Karen (Yang) Chen, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Philadelphia, PA
Karen (Yang) Chen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19102
Rates: Initial Consultations $300 (1 hr), Medication Management Follow-ups $150 (20 min), Therapy (with or without medication management) $225 (45 min).
Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates is a network of over 20 psychiatric providers including Psychiatrists, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, and Psychotherapists. We offer in-office and Virtual Telehealth appointments in Philadelphia, The Main Line of Philadelphia and Virtually to NJ, NY and FL. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in medication management for a variety of mental health conditions in adults ages 18+, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, PMDD, bipolar disorder, and more.
Rates: Initial Consultations $300 (1 hr), Medication Management Follow-ups $150 (20 min), Therapy (with or without medication management) $225 (45 min).
Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates is a network of over 20 psychiatric providers including Psychiatrists, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, and Psychotherapists. We offer in-office and Virtual Telehealth appointments in Philadelphia, The Main Line of Philadelphia and Virtually to NJ, NY and FL. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in medication management for a variety of mental health conditions in adults ages 18+, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, PMDD, bipolar disorder, and more.
(215) 770-3879 View (215) 770-3879
Photo of Paula Bu, Psychiatrist in Philadelphia, PA
Paula Bu
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19102
I am also happy to collaborate with your existing therapist if your need at this time is primarily medication management.
When depression, anxiety, or trauma overshadows your thoughts, it can be difficult to even imagine how life could be different. Whether you are struggling with work-life balance, relationships, or life transitions, I offer new ways of thinking and a personalized treatment plan that empowers you to live your most meaningful life. I also have significant experience treating college students, members of the LGBTQ+ community, and people of color.
I am also happy to collaborate with your existing therapist if your need at this time is primarily medication management.
When depression, anxiety, or trauma overshadows your thoughts, it can be difficult to even imagine how life could be different. Whether you are struggling with work-life balance, relationships, or life transitions, I offer new ways of thinking and a personalized treatment plan that empowers you to live your most meaningful life. I also have significant experience treating college students, members of the LGBTQ+ community, and people of color.
(484) 207-6264 View (484) 207-6264
Photo of Thomas Scary, Psychiatrist in Philadelphia, PA
Thomas Scary
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19102
I am currently scheduling patients for both in-person (PA/NJ) and telehealth (PA/NJ/MA) appointments. I welcome patients who are looking for medication management, therapy, a second opinion, or any combination of the above. My interests include diagnostic clarification of mood/anxiety/attention disorders, evaluation of young adults who may be seeking help for the first time, and treatment of substance use disorders that often present with other common diagnoses.
I am currently scheduling patients for both in-person (PA/NJ) and telehealth (PA/NJ/MA) appointments. I welcome patients who are looking for medication management, therapy, a second opinion, or any combination of the above. My interests include diagnostic clarification of mood/anxiety/attention disorders, evaluation of young adults who may be seeking help for the first time, and treatment of substance use disorders that often present with other common diagnoses.
(267) 358-6155 View (267) 358-6155
Photo of Albert Han Yu, Psychiatrist in Philadelphia, PA
Albert Han Yu
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19146  (Online Only)
Uncertainty, upheaval, illness, and traumas can take many forms throughout a person's life, leading to depression, anxiety, unhappiness, and conflict in relationships. My practice aims to address your unique circumstances, to collaborate with you to achieve sustainable and meaningful life changes, and to cultivate a deeper understanding of your personal narrative. I offer comprehensive and individualized treatment for a range of concerns through psychiatric medication management and/or psychotherapy.
Uncertainty, upheaval, illness, and traumas can take many forms throughout a person's life, leading to depression, anxiety, unhappiness, and conflict in relationships. My practice aims to address your unique circumstances, to collaborate with you to achieve sustainable and meaningful life changes, and to cultivate a deeper understanding of your personal narrative. I offer comprehensive and individualized treatment for a range of concerns through psychiatric medication management and/or psychotherapy.
(215) 703-9137 View (215) 703-9137
Photo of Dara Abraham, Psychiatrist in Philadelphia, PA
Dara Abraham
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19102  (Online Only)
Have you ever wondered why it takes you longer to complete tasks than others, why you constantly misplace your phone and keys, or why you cannot wind down and relax when you have free time? These are just a few adult ADHD symptoms that are not always recognized and, unfortunately, mislabeled as carelessness and laziness or misdiagnosed as anxiety. ADHD is a highly hereditary disorder that starts at birth and usually continues into adulthood. It is often co-morbid with many other psychiatric disorders such as obsessive-compulsive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, mood disorders, eating disorders, and substance use disorders.
Have you ever wondered why it takes you longer to complete tasks than others, why you constantly misplace your phone and keys, or why you cannot wind down and relax when you have free time? These are just a few adult ADHD symptoms that are not always recognized and, unfortunately, mislabeled as carelessness and laziness or misdiagnosed as anxiety. ADHD is a highly hereditary disorder that starts at birth and usually continues into adulthood. It is often co-morbid with many other psychiatric disorders such as obsessive-compulsive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, mood disorders, eating disorders, and substance use disorders.
(215) 607-2947 View (215) 607-2947
Photo of Chris Pagnani MD PC, Psychiatrist in Philadelphia, PA
Chris Pagnani MD PC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19102
Founder and Medical Director of Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates - a network of over 20 psychiatric providers that are academically focused and utilize evidence based practice. In-office (Philadelphia, and The Main Line in Paoli, PA) and virtual Telehealth psychiatric appointments. We treat anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder and ADHD. Child and adolescent psychiatric appointments. Fee for service practice, treating moderate levels of psychiatric illness for safety purposes (we do not have admitting privileges or a 24 hour emergency line). Board Certified and licensed in PA, NJ, NY, MD, DE, FL, CA. Visit www.RittenhousePA.com.
Founder and Medical Director of Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates - a network of over 20 psychiatric providers that are academically focused and utilize evidence based practice. In-office (Philadelphia, and The Main Line in Paoli, PA) and virtual Telehealth psychiatric appointments. We treat anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder and ADHD. Child and adolescent psychiatric appointments. Fee for service practice, treating moderate levels of psychiatric illness for safety purposes (we do not have admitting privileges or a 24 hour emergency line). Board Certified and licensed in PA, NJ, NY, MD, DE, FL, CA. Visit www.RittenhousePA.com.
(267) 415-8618 View (267) 415-8618
Photo of Jessica Plocher, Psychiatric Nurse in Philadelphia, PA
Jessica Plocher
Psychiatric Nurse, CRNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19102
I am currently scheduling new patients for initial psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We additionally have psychotherapists (within our network at Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates) whom we collaborate with if indicated. I have over a decade of experience working in the mental health field, including working as a mental health resource specialist at Massachusetts General Hospital (2003-2008), The Johns Hopkins Hospital in both clinical and supervisor roles (2009-2012) and have instructed at The University of Pennsylvania (where I completed my training including certification to prescribe psychiatric medications).
I am currently scheduling new patients for initial psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We additionally have psychotherapists (within our network at Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates) whom we collaborate with if indicated. I have over a decade of experience working in the mental health field, including working as a mental health resource specialist at Massachusetts General Hospital (2003-2008), The Johns Hopkins Hospital in both clinical and supervisor roles (2009-2012) and have instructed at The University of Pennsylvania (where I completed my training including certification to prescribe psychiatric medications).
(267) 331-4799 View (267) 331-4799
Photo of Angel Marie Augustin, Psychiatrist in Philadelphia, PA
Angel Marie Augustin
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19104  (Online Only)
I am Dr. Angel Augustin, a board-certified psychiatrist based out of Philadelphia, the city of brotherly love! I completed my psychiatric training at the University of Pennsylvania. I have expertise in the treatment of various psychiatric conditions including depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, low self-esteem, grief, cultural identity, and struggles with life transitions. I believe in taking a holistic and collaborative approach to creating a treatment plan that aligns with your goals.
I am Dr. Angel Augustin, a board-certified psychiatrist based out of Philadelphia, the city of brotherly love! I completed my psychiatric training at the University of Pennsylvania. I have expertise in the treatment of various psychiatric conditions including depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, low self-esteem, grief, cultural identity, and struggles with life transitions. I believe in taking a holistic and collaborative approach to creating a treatment plan that aligns with your goals.
(484) 977-3269 View (484) 977-3269
Photo of Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates, Psychiatrist in Philadelphia, PA
Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19102
We offer initial evaluations, second opinions, medication management and therapy, to individuals in Philadelphia, on the Main Line of Philadelphia, and virtually via HIPAA compliant telemedicine appointments to patients in New York, New Jersey and Florida.
Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates is a private practice of Psychiatry, comprised of Johns Hopkins, University of Pennsylvania and similarly trained Physicians, Nurse Practitioners and therapists who treat Children, Adolescents & Adults for Depression, Bipolar Affective Disorder, Anxiety Disorders (GAD, OCD and Panic) and psychotherapy. We offer in-office and virtual Telehealth Psychiatric appointments for patients in the Philadelphia and Main Line areas, and Telehealth for patients in New Jersey, New York and Florida. Evidence based medicine from academically oriented providers, many of whom teach or have taught at academic centers
We offer initial evaluations, second opinions, medication management and therapy, to individuals in Philadelphia, on the Main Line of Philadelphia, and virtually via HIPAA compliant telemedicine appointments to patients in New York, New Jersey and Florida.
Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates is a private practice of Psychiatry, comprised of Johns Hopkins, University of Pennsylvania and similarly trained Physicians, Nurse Practitioners and therapists who treat Children, Adolescents & Adults for Depression, Bipolar Affective Disorder, Anxiety Disorders (GAD, OCD and Panic) and psychotherapy. We offer in-office and virtual Telehealth Psychiatric appointments for patients in the Philadelphia and Main Line areas, and Telehealth for patients in New Jersey, New York and Florida. Evidence based medicine from academically oriented providers, many of whom teach or have taught at academic centers
(215) 447-7121 View (215) 447-7121
Photo of Tuua Ruutiainen, Psychiatrist in Philadelphia, PA
Tuua Ruutiainen
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19103
People seek treatment for many different reasons including stress related to their career or relationships, difficulty coping with trauma and anxiety, or a desire to better understand themselves. As a psychiatrist and insight oriented psychotherapist, I offer a variety of different treatments including individual therapy and when indicated medications. My approach is empathic and collaborative. I work to gain a nuanced understanding of who you are and your reasons for seeking treatment. My goal is to help you better understand yourself, find new ways to cope with stress and anxiety, and achieve a greater sense of life satisfaction.
People seek treatment for many different reasons including stress related to their career or relationships, difficulty coping with trauma and anxiety, or a desire to better understand themselves. As a psychiatrist and insight oriented psychotherapist, I offer a variety of different treatments including individual therapy and when indicated medications. My approach is empathic and collaborative. I work to gain a nuanced understanding of who you are and your reasons for seeking treatment. My goal is to help you better understand yourself, find new ways to cope with stress and anxiety, and achieve a greater sense of life satisfaction.
(215) 278-4463 View (215) 278-4463
Photo of The Executive Center for Psychological Medicine, Psychiatrist in Philadelphia, PA
The Executive Center for Psychological Medicine
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19019
Specialties • Depression • Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) • Trauma and PTSD • ADHD • Anxiety • Grief • Addiction • Medication Management • Stress • Testing and Evaluation • Trans Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) (coming soon) • Women's Issues • Mental Health • Mood Disorders Age groups: Children and adolescents, Adults and Elderly .
Dr. Adetunji is Board Certified in General Adult Psychiatry, Forensic Psychiatry, Addiction Medicine and Psychological Medicine. He was trained in Psychiatry in England (At the prestigious Guys and St Thomas’s Hospital, London) as well as in USA (Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia). He completed fellowship training in Forensic Psychiatry at the New York University Medical Center. Dr Adetunji is well versed in addiction medicine and child and adolescent psychiatry. He is certified to prescribe Buprenorphine (Suboxone) for opioid addiction.
Specialties • Depression • Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) • Trauma and PTSD • ADHD • Anxiety • Grief • Addiction • Medication Management • Stress • Testing and Evaluation • Trans Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) (coming soon) • Women's Issues • Mental Health • Mood Disorders Age groups: Children and adolescents, Adults and Elderly .
Dr. Adetunji is Board Certified in General Adult Psychiatry, Forensic Psychiatry, Addiction Medicine and Psychological Medicine. He was trained in Psychiatry in England (At the prestigious Guys and St Thomas’s Hospital, London) as well as in USA (Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia). He completed fellowship training in Forensic Psychiatry at the New York University Medical Center. Dr Adetunji is well versed in addiction medicine and child and adolescent psychiatry. He is certified to prescribe Buprenorphine (Suboxone) for opioid addiction.
(856) 619-8540 View (856) 619-8540
Photo of Dr. Jonathan A Beatty, Psychiatrist in Philadelphia, PA
Dr. Jonathan A Beatty
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19118
Accepting new patients treatment-resistant depression with TMS and Spravato/ketamine. We continue to offer harm reduction and medication options to meet your goals when struggling w/ substance dependence. Triple-board certified and provide a comprehensive medical approach and psychotherapy. Extensive experience treating the most complex issues that you are facing. I will help you to break down these issues and identify recurring themes that may be the barriers to your mental and physical wellness. Addiction is a medical disorder not a moral failure; together we will address the neurobiology of addiction AND its psychological impact.
Accepting new patients treatment-resistant depression with TMS and Spravato/ketamine. We continue to offer harm reduction and medication options to meet your goals when struggling w/ substance dependence. Triple-board certified and provide a comprehensive medical approach and psychotherapy. Extensive experience treating the most complex issues that you are facing. I will help you to break down these issues and identify recurring themes that may be the barriers to your mental and physical wellness. Addiction is a medical disorder not a moral failure; together we will address the neurobiology of addiction AND its psychological impact.
(610) 756-0432 View (610) 756-0432
Photo of Samantha Wyckoff, Psychiatrist in Philadelphia, PA
Samantha Wyckoff
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19102
I am a fellowship-trained Addiction Psychiatrist offering virtual appointments for patients in Pennsylvania and in-person appointments for patients in Philadelphia (call for NY availability). I have a special interest in working with individuals with co-morbid mental health and substance use disorders, and have extensive clinical experience treating a full range of psychiatric and substance use disorder diagnoses. I practice using a harm-reductionist approach and strive to work collaboratively with patients to help them achieve their goals, work through resistance, and develop motivation for behavioral change.
I am a fellowship-trained Addiction Psychiatrist offering virtual appointments for patients in Pennsylvania and in-person appointments for patients in Philadelphia (call for NY availability). I have a special interest in working with individuals with co-morbid mental health and substance use disorders, and have extensive clinical experience treating a full range of psychiatric and substance use disorder diagnoses. I practice using a harm-reductionist approach and strive to work collaboratively with patients to help them achieve their goals, work through resistance, and develop motivation for behavioral change.
(484) 603-3959 View (484) 603-3959
Photo of Kimberly Joffe, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Philadelphia, PA
Kimberly Joffe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19102
Kimberly Joffe, CRNP is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and part of Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates, which treats children, adolescents and adults for in-office and Virtual Telehealth Psychiatry. Ms. Joffe is trained in all areas of psychiatry including Attention Deficit Disorders, Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar Disorders, and Anxiety Disorders. Ms. Joffe is available for Psychiatric evaluations and medication management for adults 18 years of age and up. She is board certified to prescribe psychiatric medications. She is also a Clinical Instructor for The University of Pennsylvania’s School of Nursing.
Kimberly Joffe, CRNP is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and part of Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates, which treats children, adolescents and adults for in-office and Virtual Telehealth Psychiatry. Ms. Joffe is trained in all areas of psychiatry including Attention Deficit Disorders, Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar Disorders, and Anxiety Disorders. Ms. Joffe is available for Psychiatric evaluations and medication management for adults 18 years of age and up. She is board certified to prescribe psychiatric medications. She is also a Clinical Instructor for The University of Pennsylvania’s School of Nursing.
(610) 854-9406 View (610) 854-9406
Photo of Michael W Huang, Psychiatrist in Philadelphia, PA
Michael W Huang
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19147
Engaging in the journey of psychotherapy can feel formidable, but I believe that it can also be transformative, freeing, and full of surprises. I specialize in psychoanalytic or psychodynamic psychotherapy, where I work closely with you to explore unconscious parts of the self and patterns of being with others. This process can lead not only to relief from symptoms, but also achieve sustained, deeper changes. This often looks like the following: increased curiosity and creativity, a sense of wellbeing, improved satisfaction in relationships, pursuing life goals with more vigor and conviction.
Engaging in the journey of psychotherapy can feel formidable, but I believe that it can also be transformative, freeing, and full of surprises. I specialize in psychoanalytic or psychodynamic psychotherapy, where I work closely with you to explore unconscious parts of the self and patterns of being with others. This process can lead not only to relief from symptoms, but also achieve sustained, deeper changes. This often looks like the following: increased curiosity and creativity, a sense of wellbeing, improved satisfaction in relationships, pursuing life goals with more vigor and conviction.
(267) 609-9786 View (267) 609-9786
Photo of Irene Franck, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Philadelphia, PA
Irene Franck
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19118  (Online Only)
Hi, I am an integrative psychiatric nurse practitioner and the owner of Synergy Therapy. As an integrative provider, I not only offer medication management and psychotherapy, but I treat patients in a holistic manner, whether with lifestyle changes, nutrition coaching, supplements, and mindfulness techniques. I specialize in people who are dealing with major life changes such as divorce, or people who are currently dealing with depression, anxiety and ADHD.
Hi, I am an integrative psychiatric nurse practitioner and the owner of Synergy Therapy. As an integrative provider, I not only offer medication management and psychotherapy, but I treat patients in a holistic manner, whether with lifestyle changes, nutrition coaching, supplements, and mindfulness techniques. I specialize in people who are dealing with major life changes such as divorce, or people who are currently dealing with depression, anxiety and ADHD.
(610) 546-7019 View (610) 546-7019

See more therapy options for Philadelphia

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.