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 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 Nikki Gaines, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Seattle, WA
Nikki Gaines
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MBA, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98195  (Online Only)
I believe in evidence-based practice, with a primary focus on thoughtful medication management.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with more than ten years of experience in various facets of mental health. My philosophy includes a focus on whole mind and body wellness. I strive to deliver excellent, compassionate care through active listening and thoughtful collaboration with my patients – with a splash of humor. You will feel heard and validated, never rushed or ignored. My interest is in the person with a symptom rather than the symptom of a person.
I believe in evidence-based practice, with a primary focus on thoughtful medication management.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with more than ten years of experience in various facets of mental health. My philosophy includes a focus on whole mind and body wellness. I strive to deliver excellent, compassionate care through active listening and thoughtful collaboration with my patients – with a splash of humor. You will feel heard and validated, never rushed or ignored. My interest is in the person with a symptom rather than the symptom of a person.
(206) 589-1405 View (206) 589-1405
Photo of Charles Anstett, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Seattle, WA
Charles Anstett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98105
For this reason, treatment concerns may need to be addressed including, nutrition, exercise, spirituality and recovery in conjunction with psychiatric medication management.
As a Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, licensed to practice in the State of Washington. I have experience working with children, teens and adults. I have also worked with acutely ill adult clients in a number of inpatient facilities. I hold Bachelor and Master of Science degrees in Nursing from the University of Southern Indiana, and have worked in the nursing profession since 1998. I am currently not accepting new patients for ADHD treatment.
For this reason, treatment concerns may need to be addressed including, nutrition, exercise, spirituality and recovery in conjunction with psychiatric medication management.
As a Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, licensed to practice in the State of Washington. I have experience working with children, teens and adults. I have also worked with acutely ill adult clients in a number of inpatient facilities. I hold Bachelor and Master of Science degrees in Nursing from the University of Southern Indiana, and have worked in the nursing profession since 1998. I am currently not accepting new patients for ADHD treatment.
(206) 429-4076 View (206) 429-4076
Photo of Jennifer Hogan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Seattle, WA
Jennifer Hogan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98107
I am a Board- Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner dedicated to developing trusting, collaborative, and effective working relationships with my clients. I believe in utilizing a holistic approach to mental health which can include psychotherapy, lifestyle and environmental modifications, and medication when necessary. The primary services I offer include comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and diagnosis, medication management, as well as psychoeducation and brief therapeutic interventions.
I am a Board- Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner dedicated to developing trusting, collaborative, and effective working relationships with my clients. I believe in utilizing a holistic approach to mental health which can include psychotherapy, lifestyle and environmental modifications, and medication when necessary. The primary services I offer include comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and diagnosis, medication management, as well as psychoeducation and brief therapeutic interventions.
(206) 202-2436 View (206) 202-2436
Photo of Nicholas Kenneth Garmon, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Seattle, WA
Nicholas Kenneth Garmon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98125
I offer medication management and brief supportive therapy for clients facing challenges like ADHD, depression, and anxiety.
Do you often feel that it's impossible to keep up? Ever find yourself watching others seemingly handle work, school, and personal responsibilities effortlessly? The pressure from the world outside, combined with the inner critic, can become overwhelming, leaving you feeling down, discouraged, and even hopeless. But here's the good news: this feeling does not have to be permanent. With the appropriate support, it can fade away. You can regain control over your everyday life while nurturing a positive outlook on yourself and your future.
I offer medication management and brief supportive therapy for clients facing challenges like ADHD, depression, and anxiety.
Do you often feel that it's impossible to keep up? Ever find yourself watching others seemingly handle work, school, and personal responsibilities effortlessly? The pressure from the world outside, combined with the inner critic, can become overwhelming, leaving you feeling down, discouraged, and even hopeless. But here's the good news: this feeling does not have to be permanent. With the appropriate support, it can fade away. You can regain control over your everyday life while nurturing a positive outlook on yourself and your future.
(425) 517-3416 View (425) 517-3416
Photo of Arezu Piroozmandi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Seattle, WA
Arezu Piroozmandi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98107
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I provide evidence-based psychiatric evaluations, diagnoses, and medication management for a range of psychiatric conditions.
I believe mental health is an artifact of both personal and cultural background, and upbringing. My diverse background and encounters have taught me that psychological illnesses are just as critical as physical illnesses. I acknowledge and appreciate diversity and multi-cultured backgrounds and believe this to be an influential asset in my ability to connect with and assist individuals from a holistic standpoint. During our sessions, you will be met with sincere empathy, respect and compassion.
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I provide evidence-based psychiatric evaluations, diagnoses, and medication management for a range of psychiatric conditions.
I believe mental health is an artifact of both personal and cultural background, and upbringing. My diverse background and encounters have taught me that psychological illnesses are just as critical as physical illnesses. I acknowledge and appreciate diversity and multi-cultured backgrounds and believe this to be an influential asset in my ability to connect with and assist individuals from a holistic standpoint. During our sessions, you will be met with sincere empathy, respect and compassion.
(206) 752-1895 View (206) 752-1895
Photo of Dr. Ronil Shah, Psychiatrist in Seattle, WA
Dr. Ronil Shah
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98101
Dr. Shah is welcoming new patients for video appointments. As a Board-certified M.D. psychiatrist, he specializes in assessing and treating anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, PTSD and other psychiatric issues. A holistic provider, he combines non-pharmacologic approaches - including psychodynamic psychotherapy and cognitive behavioral therapy - in addition to medication. He utilizes such therapeutic modalities in medication management appointments as well as dedicated therapy sessions. Consequently, patients benefit from well-integrated treatment that is both systematic and thorough.
Dr. Shah is welcoming new patients for video appointments. As a Board-certified M.D. psychiatrist, he specializes in assessing and treating anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, PTSD and other psychiatric issues. A holistic provider, he combines non-pharmacologic approaches - including psychodynamic psychotherapy and cognitive behavioral therapy - in addition to medication. He utilizes such therapeutic modalities in medication management appointments as well as dedicated therapy sessions. Consequently, patients benefit from well-integrated treatment that is both systematic and thorough.
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Photo of Vibrant Mental Wellness- Mental Health Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Seattle, WA
Vibrant Mental Wellness- Mental Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APR, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98121  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with emotional balance and physical health? Do you feel your emotions are off balance? Do you struggle with medication management? Have you tried multiple medications and wonder what medications your body is able to process/breakdown well? Do you have doubts whether you have ADHD or mood disorder? No problem! Book an appointment.
We provide services, in Washington State, TX, AZ, OR, and WY. Am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner treating patients of all ages from children, adolescents adults to older Adults? I have been working in the field of mental for the past 10 years since I was a psychiatric mental health technician/assistant to now Psychiatric Mental health nurse practitioner for the past 10 years which has now become a passion. I truly care and listen to my patients. Book an appointment for a consultation. I provide a holistic approach via Telemedicine. I aim to improve your mental health needs.
Are you struggling with emotional balance and physical health? Do you feel your emotions are off balance? Do you struggle with medication management? Have you tried multiple medications and wonder what medications your body is able to process/breakdown well? Do you have doubts whether you have ADHD or mood disorder? No problem! Book an appointment.
We provide services, in Washington State, TX, AZ, OR, and WY. Am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner treating patients of all ages from children, adolescents adults to older Adults? I have been working in the field of mental for the past 10 years since I was a psychiatric mental health technician/assistant to now Psychiatric Mental health nurse practitioner for the past 10 years which has now become a passion. I truly care and listen to my patients. Book an appointment for a consultation. I provide a holistic approach via Telemedicine. I aim to improve your mental health needs.
(206) 800-7583 View (206) 800-7583
Photo of PsychiatryProvider.com, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Seattle, WA
PsychiatryProvider.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98121  (Online Only)
Accepting clients for 100% telemedicine/online. Virtual sessions avoid traffic and waiting rooms. Confidentiality is secured through HIPPA programs. Without judgment, I address issues people suffer but do not discuss. Through years of expertise, I have heard it all. Appointments are individualized to you with training on all psychiatric diagnoses. I have plenty of appointments available for medication management. Each appointment generates a Superbill for you to submit to your insurance. Some insurances are accepted: Aetna (Arizona, Oregon, Washington) and Cigna (Arizona, Oregon, Washington).
Accepting clients for 100% telemedicine/online. Virtual sessions avoid traffic and waiting rooms. Confidentiality is secured through HIPPA programs. Without judgment, I address issues people suffer but do not discuss. Through years of expertise, I have heard it all. Appointments are individualized to you with training on all psychiatric diagnoses. I have plenty of appointments available for medication management. Each appointment generates a Superbill for you to submit to your insurance. Some insurances are accepted: Aetna (Arizona, Oregon, Washington) and Cigna (Arizona, Oregon, Washington).
(206) 222-1304 View (206) 222-1304
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 Allison Cothern, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Seattle, WA
Allison Cothern
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119  (Online Only)
I offer comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, diagnosis, and evidenced based medication management while providing supportive psychotherapy on an as needed basis.
I am a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I graduated from the University of Alabama at Birmingham with both my Bachelor and Master of Science in Nursing. Since completing my graduate studies and residencies, I have specialized in treating adults with mental health difficulties and concerns such as depression, anxiety, trauma, personality disorders, and other challenges. I will make it my priority to help you feel comfortable while performing thorough assessments to better diagnose and develop a treatment plan. I believe in a holistic approach to maximize wellbeing and to help you attain the best results.
I offer comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, diagnosis, and evidenced based medication management while providing supportive psychotherapy on an as needed basis.
I am a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I graduated from the University of Alabama at Birmingham with both my Bachelor and Master of Science in Nursing. Since completing my graduate studies and residencies, I have specialized in treating adults with mental health difficulties and concerns such as depression, anxiety, trauma, personality disorders, and other challenges. I will make it my priority to help you feel comfortable while performing thorough assessments to better diagnose and develop a treatment plan. I believe in a holistic approach to maximize wellbeing and to help you attain the best results.
(206) 752-9926 View (206) 752-9926
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 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 Levi Williams, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Seattle, WA
Levi Williams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98107
I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who uses an evidence based approach combined with my strong background in psychiatric nursing to provide support with behavioral interventions/management, therapy, and psychiatric medication management.
I believe that wherever you’re at with your mental health journey, either for yourself or a loved one, there is one thing everyone is looking for first: to be understood. In the busy world we live in, with what seems like access to everyone and everything right at our fingertips, we know what it is like to be heard; though, it is often difficult to experience meaningful connection, feel related to, and know an understanding has taken place beyond mere words. My goal is to connect in a calm and caring way with each person I meet, to understand where you are at in your journey, and to work together to identify your needs.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who uses an evidence based approach combined with my strong background in psychiatric nursing to provide support with behavioral interventions/management, therapy, and psychiatric medication management.
I believe that wherever you’re at with your mental health journey, either for yourself or a loved one, there is one thing everyone is looking for first: to be understood. In the busy world we live in, with what seems like access to everyone and everything right at our fingertips, we know what it is like to be heard; though, it is often difficult to experience meaningful connection, feel related to, and know an understanding has taken place beyond mere words. My goal is to connect in a calm and caring way with each person I meet, to understand where you are at in your journey, and to work together to identify your needs.
(206) 973-3591 View (206) 973-3591
Photo of Ideal Mental Health and Wellness Care, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Seattle, WA
Ideal Mental Health and Wellness Care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98101
Debbie is now accepting new patients, she provides specialized mental health services for adults and children. Debbie is dedicated to supporting individuals facing various mental health conditions and symptoms, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, PTSD, autism medication management, ADHD, ODD, and learning disabilities. Scheduling an appointment is convenient and hassle-free through our website, WWW.idealmentalcare.com.
Debbie is now accepting new patients, she provides specialized mental health services for adults and children. Debbie is dedicated to supporting individuals facing various mental health conditions and symptoms, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, PTSD, autism medication management, ADHD, ODD, and learning disabilities. Scheduling an appointment is convenient and hassle-free through our website, WWW.idealmentalcare.com.
(206) 823-2578 View (206) 823-2578
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 Ashley Cedar, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Seattle, WA
Ashley Cedar
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98119
Ashley specializes in ADHD, PTSD and C-PTSD, mood disorders, and anxiety across the life span. She spent her career working in an inpatient substance abuse program and in an inpatient psychiatric hospital. In her free time, Ashley volunteers as a victim advocate for victims of domestic violence, homicide, and sexual assault. Ashley understands that each person has different physical, mental, and spiritual needs and each visit will focus on addressing these issues. Visits will include therapy, medication management, collaboration with treatment team and reviewing progress.
Ashley specializes in ADHD, PTSD and C-PTSD, mood disorders, and anxiety across the life span. She spent her career working in an inpatient substance abuse program and in an inpatient psychiatric hospital. In her free time, Ashley volunteers as a victim advocate for victims of domestic violence, homicide, and sexual assault. Ashley understands that each person has different physical, mental, and spiritual needs and each visit will focus on addressing these issues. Visits will include therapy, medication management, collaboration with treatment team and reviewing progress.
(206) 369-9000 View (206) 369-9000
Photo of Chanel Ruby Jost, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Seattle, WA
Chanel Ruby Jost
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103  (Online Only)
I offer psychiatric evaluation, medication management, and supportive therapy to adolescents and adults ages 15-50. My goal is to listen to you, hear you, and collaborate with you to find a path towards greater equanimity and vitality.
I offer psychiatric evaluation, medication management, and supportive therapy to adolescents and adults ages 15-50. My goal is to listen to you, hear you, and collaborate with you to find a path towards greater equanimity and vitality.
(360) 774-4236 View (360) 774-4236
Photo of Balance Psychiatric Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Seattle, WA
Balance Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98144  (Online Only)
We provide psychiatric evaluation and medication management to ages 5 & up via telehealth We also provide psychiatric consultation for gender affirming surgeries and medical procedures such as weight loss surgery.
We understand that you are coming to us at one of the most vulnerable and difficult times in your life. We will listen to your concerns without judgement and offer a safe space to overcome your unique challenges. We are here to help if you are struggling with overwhelming feelings of sadness, irritability, anxious thoughts, or chaotic shifts in your mood. We can assess for ADHD if you feel unable to focus or struggle with completing tasks without distraction. We are experienced in providing trauma informed care.
We provide psychiatric evaluation and medication management to ages 5 & up via telehealth We also provide psychiatric consultation for gender affirming surgeries and medical procedures such as weight loss surgery.
We understand that you are coming to us at one of the most vulnerable and difficult times in your life. We will listen to your concerns without judgement and offer a safe space to overcome your unique challenges. We are here to help if you are struggling with overwhelming feelings of sadness, irritability, anxious thoughts, or chaotic shifts in your mood. We can assess for ADHD if you feel unable to focus or struggle with completing tasks without distraction. We are experienced in providing trauma informed care.
(206) 457-1128 View (206) 457-1128
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.