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32905 W. 12 Mile Rd. Suite 310, Farmington Hills

(248) 296-3104

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Medication Management

Medication Management Bright Spot Counseling

With so much going on, it’s hard to keep track of all of your appointments these days, particularly if you see multiple doctors and providers. So why would we encourage you to consider adding another to the mix? Read on to find out why medication management with a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, in place of scheduling a visit with your Primary Care Physician or Psychiatrist may be a better fit for your individual needs.

Specialized Expertise

Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners are healthcare professionals who specialize in psychiatric care and have advanced training in mental health assessment and treatment. They may have a deeper understanding of psychiatric medications and their specific indications, dosages, and potential side effects compared to a PCP who may have a broader scope of practice. Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners often have more experience and knowledge in diagnosing and treating complex mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety or mood disorders. They may also be more open to discussing holistic approaches. PNPs have a unique blend of experience, seeing the human body as an intricate system that is affected by everything in its environment- physically, mentally and emotionally. Have you ever walked away from a doctor’s office feeling gaslit, undermined, shamed or disregarded for asking about other options for your care outside of what your PCP recommends?

Better Referrals

Many PNP’s are also trained in therapy modalities. Your PNP is likely better connected in the field of mental health and can offer referrals to practitioners that are well versed in your specific needs, whereas a PCP may offer referrals from a list of providers, not knowing what kinds of treatment modalities you may need.

Availability and Time

Have you tried getting in with your PCP or a Psychiatrist recently? With the high demand and shortage of healthcare providers, it’s no wonder these medical professionals have waiting lists that can extend beyond 3-6 months. Many Doctors exist in a world where referrals are the only way to get in, in a reasonable amount of time. Some client’s may also face limitations in their insurance plans, which restrict their choice of providers or require prior authorization. Additionally, time constraints can make your appointment feel more like a drive-by instead of a medical appointment. How many hours have you spent in a waiting room only to spend more time waiting in the examination room? Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners typically allocate more time for each patient visit compared to PCPs and Psychiatrists, allowing for a more thorough evaluation and discussion of mental health concerns. Many clients meet with their Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner one to two times per month and sessions can range from 30 minutes to an hour long. This extra time can be crucial in understanding the nuances of an individual’s symptoms, history, and treatment preferences, which can lead to more personalized and effective medication management.

Continuity of Care

Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners often provide ongoing psychiatric care and follow-up, allowing for continuity of treatment. Working with a PNP that is associated with the practice where you see your therapist can also cut down on the time it can take to connect and collaborate professionally through discussion, shared resources and files. It can be helpful to have all of your mental health information in one place. They can exchange important details about the patient’s progress, symptoms, medication effectiveness, and any concerns or challenges that arise during treatment. This comprehensive approach can allow your team to be more familiar with your history, response to medication, potential interactions with other treatments and any changes that may arise between sessions. This insight can enhance the quality of care and optimize your treatment, both therapeutically and medically over time.

Finding the right medication through the use of Gene Site Testing

PNPs are trained to improve your functioning and to be aware of any contraindications or potential side effects to the medications they prescribe, in addition to the medications you may already be on for other reasons. Another important consideration is that PCPs do not offer Gene Site Testing. Gene Site Testing is a type of genetic testing that analyzes an individual’s genetic variations to predict their response to certain medications. If you have tried multiple different medications and had a less than desirable experience, you know how scary it can be to try another. With Gene Site Testing, the goal is to optimize medication selection and dosing for individuals based on their genetic profile. By tailoring treatment plans to a person’s genetic makeup, your Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner will aim to improve drug effectiveness, reduce the risk of adverse reactions, and minimize the need for trial-and-error approaches in finding the most suitable medications. Lastly, individuals with co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders may benefit from medication that a PCP may not be aware of. Certain medications can address both conditions simultaneously, aiding in recovery and reducing the risk of relapse.

Questions to ask at your first appointment

So now that you are aware of the benefits of meeting with a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, here is a list of questions you may consider asking at your first appointment.

What is your professional background and experience in psychiatric care?

Can you explain the specific psychiatric condition I’m being evaluated for or diagnosed with?

What are the side effects or potential complications of the prescribed medications or therapies?

Are there any lifestyle modifications or self-care strategies that can complement the treatment plan?

Will I need to make any changes to my current medications or treatment plan if I’m already seeing other healthcare providers?

Misconceptions and fears about medication for mental health

Last but not least, let’s tackle some of the misnomers about medication for mental health. Misconceptions are common due to the complexity of the topic and the stigmatization surrounding mental health.

Is medication is a “quick fix”?

One misnomer is that medication alone can instantly cure mental health conditions. In reality, medication is often part of a comprehensive treatment plan that may also include therapy, lifestyle changes, and other interventions. It takes time to find the right medication and dosage, and the effects may vary from person to person.

Is medication addictive?

Another misconception is that psychiatric medications are highly addictive like drugs of abuse. While some medications can cause dependence or withdrawal symptoms, most psychiatric medications are not addictive when taken as prescribed. It’s important to follow the prescribed dosage and work closely with your Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and to also discuss these concerns with your therapist.

Will medication change my personality?

Some people fear that taking medication for mental health will change their personality or make them feel like a different person. While medications can have side effects, they are typically aimed at reducing symptoms and improving overall functioning. When prescribed appropriately, medications should not fundamentally change a person’s core identity.

But I thought medication is only for severe cases?

There’s a misnomer that psychiatric medications are only necessary for severe mental health conditions. In reality, medication can be prescribed for a wide range of mental health issues, including moderate and mild cases. The decision to use medication is based on an individual’s unique circumstances, symptoms, and the professional judgment of a healthcare provider.

Is medication a sign of weakness?

This belief stems from the stigma associated with mental health. You would never fault a diabetic for taking insulin or a hearing impaired person for wearing hearing aids. Everybody’s system functions differently and requires an individualized approach. In reality, seeking help and taking medication for mental health is a courageous step towards managing and improving one’s well-being. If you have any of these thoughts, they would be best addressed with your therapist or Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and not a family member or friend that may reinforce the stigma.

Think you might benefit from exploring medication options? Call us at 248-296-3104 or schedule online with Laila Marashi at https://www.brightspottherayp.com.