Psychiatry and Medication Management

Psychiatry

Psychiatry is a medical specialty devoted to the prevention, diagnosis, management and treatment of mental health conditions. These include anxiety disorders, mood disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD),  depression and more.

A psychiatrist is a licensed medical doctor who specializes in psychology and mental health and can prescribe medications to their clients. Though psychiatrists and licensed therapists can both provide psychotherapeutic counseling (traditional talk therapy), only a psychiatrist can prescribe medications such as antidepressants, antipsychotics or medicine to treat attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), anxiety and more. A psychiatrist takes into account the chemical-biological factors and presenting symptoms of each client to determine if medication would be necessary or therapeutic as well as which medication may be most helpful.

Just like other doctors, psychiatrists can specialize their practice. Some may focus their work on mood disorders, work with clients who have substance use disorder or function primarily as a prescribing doctor instead of a therapist. For people who require routine or daily medication as well as regular therapy, it is normal to have a separate therapist and psychiatrist. There are many different facets to psychiatry and the right psychiatrist and therapist will work with their clients to find the most effective and comfortable treatment plan.

Psychiatric Evaluations

Psychiatric evaluations gather critical information a psychiatrist needs to provide the most helpful and appropriate care for their client. While the intake can be challenging as it is often the first time the client has confronted their struggles and mental health, it is a vital first step in getting the necessary care and treatment.

A psychiatric evaluation may ask about:

  • Past mental health history
  • Coping mechanisms
  • Substance use tendencies and patterns
  • Work history
  • Relationship history
  • Any current and past medications
  • Histories of past abuse
  • Current home and social environment
  • Current struggles
  • Daily routines and habits

Psychiatrists and intake technicians are accustomed to handling sensitive information as well as answering any questions a client may have.

Medication Management

Medication management services are designed for adults receiving mental health and substance use treatment who can benefit from psychotropic medications, including antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications. These medications are commonly used to manage symptoms of mental health disorders.

It’s important to distinguish medication management from medication-assisted treatment (MAT). Other treatment centers may refer to MAT as medication management. At Pyramid Healthcare, MAT refers to the use of medications to treat opioid use disorders and help individuals maintain sobriety.

Clients in the medication management program at Pyramid Healthcare in Ohio work with a licensed medical professional at the outpatient treatment center. Pyramid Healthcare’s medical staff can help:

  • Initiate medications for new clients
  • Provide continuation of ongoing medications
  • Ensure clients are following their medication regimen
  • Monitor dosage and efficacy of medications
  • Develop an individualized plan of care in conjunction with clients and other behavioral health professionals

Medication management is often used at the same time as other therapeutic intervention, such as talk therapy and holistic therapies and helps individuals improve their quality of life and increase chances of sustained recovery.

Contact Us Today

Our admissions team is available to help. Contact us online or (888) 694-9996 to discuss your options.