Experiencing a fulfilling and long-lasting recovery from mental illness and/or addiction can sometimes come down to finding the right medication or medication combination. Therapy and medicine, taken together, can be just the approach that’s needed to ensure a successful treatment.

However, people can respond differently to the medicines prescribed for psychological illness. Psychiatric drugs are not a one-size-fits-all solution, so medication management is called for. It’s critical that your psychiatrist and health care providers monitor your medication’s success, side effects, and possible interactions with drugs, alcohol, other prescription medications, and supplements you may be taking.

Initially, we may start with a trial of medication for a set period of time, in order to evaluate how the medication is meeting your goals and what side effects, if any, you may be experiencing. By carefully assessing (and re-assessing) the type, dosage, and efficacy of medication, we can ensure a treatment plan that is tailored to your individual needs.

Not all patients need medication, but some psychiatric symptoms like anxiety, panic attacks, depression, and bipolar disorder can be effectively treated with short- or long-term use of medications.