Psychiatric Services

Psychiatry has changed considerably over the past two to three decades.  Historically, while psychiatrists were the typical providers of both  psychotherapy and medication management, the past several years have brought many changes to the psychiatrist’s role within the mental health system.

Due to the emergence of psychologists as highly educated professionals who are trained in various types of psychotherapy and “talk therapy,” coupled with the advent of managed care further defining the roles of each discipline, the psychiatrist’s main role has been shifted into medication management.

As a result, the psychiatrist will normally see a patient to assess the appropriateness of medication, will select the most effective medication/s for the symptoms the patient is reporting and then will manage the effects of those medications for as long as the patient is taking the medications prescribed. Once the patient is stabilized, revisits are usually about once every 2-3 months to monitor progress and prescribe refills.

Simultaneously, most patients will see either a psychologist, licensed clinical social worker or licensed mental health counselor for traditional psychotherapy. Psychotherapy provides an opportunity to explore old, ineffective patterns of behavior that are not working well, explore relationship difficulties and change coping strategies. Research indicates that the most effective treatment for depression is a combination approach of both psychotherapy and medication.

It is important to note that not every patient will require or desire medication. The decision to introduce medication into your individualized treatment plan will be carefully explored with you by you mental health care provider. All options will be presented and explained fully.