Psychiatry Services and Medication Management
Columbia Associates is dedicated to supporting your mental health. If you are experiencing suicidal thoughts, we encourage you to reach out for immediate support through your local crisis services by dialing 988, contacting your local emergency services, or visiting your local emergency room.
An essential component of Columbia Associates’ approach is psychiatry services and medication management. Our therapeutic team specializes in diagnosing and treating a variety of mental health conditions through medication. Evaluating clients’ symptoms and developing individualized treatment plans to address their unique needs allows us to offer effective support and long-term healing.
Contact Columbia Associates 703.682.8208 today for more information about our mental health services.
Why Psychiatry Services and Medication Management Matter
There are many physical and chemical functions within the brain that can contribute to mental health issues. Medication can help to address neurobiological and neurochemical causes of mental health symptoms, leading to a reduction or even elimination of symptoms. Not all psychiatric treatment relies on traditional medications. Our psychiatric team also provides clients with treatment services like:
- Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) – A non-invasive treatment for depression and anxiety that involves stimulating specific areas of the brain using magnetic fields to improve mood and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression.
- Spravato ® – A nasal spray for treatment-resistant depression that works by targeting and activating receptors in the brain associated with mood regulation.
Offering our clients much-needed relief from symptoms like those associated with anxiety and depression is a high value of ours. Columbia will continue to serve our clients with the best, innovative treatments available.
Common Questions About Psychiatric Services and Medication Management
When it comes to psychiatry services and medication management, we understand that clients can have concerns. Our care team is always available to help you get the clarity you need, for the progress you’re going to make.
1. What mental health conditions can be treated with medication management?
Medication management can be effective in treating various conditions and symptoms, including but not limited to:
- Mood dysregulation
- Impulse control challenges
- Sensory concerns
- Sleep irregularity
- Anxiety
- Obsessions and compulsions
- Attention deficits
- Suicidal ideation
- Depression
- Schizophrenia
- Psychotic symptoms
2. Is medication always necessary for psychiatric services?
No, medication is not always necessary. Some clients may find that therapy alone is sufficient to achieve their mental health goals. The decision to use medication is individualized and depends on each client’s specific needs.
3. Can medication management be combined with therapy?
Yes, medication management is combined with therapy to enhance its effectiveness. For example, medication can help manage symptoms that may otherwise hinder the therapy process, such as anxiety, allowing clients to better engage in therapy.
4. How does Columbia develop treatment plans for clients?
At Columbia, our mental health team evaluates clients’ symptoms and develops individualized treatment plans tailored to your unique needs. Whether a client needs therapy, medication, or a combination of both, our team is dedicated to supporting their journey toward mental health wellness.
5. What if I prefer to focus on therapy without medication?
Our psychiatry and medication management services are flexible and can work with or without therapy. If a client prefers to focus on therapy without medication, we support that choice and will help develop a treatment plan that aligns with their preferences and goals.
6. What are the common side effects of medications?
The side effects of psychiatric medications will vary depending upon the medication that’s been prescribed. However, common side effects include drowsiness, weight gain, dry mouth, dizziness, or changes in appetite. It’s important to note that not everyone experiences all or any of these side effects. Additionally, side effects typically diminish as individuals adjust to taking them. Our psychiatric providers work closely with clients to monitor side effects, find appropriate medications, and adjust dosages as needed.
7. Are there long-term risks associated with medication management?
Some medications may have potential long-term effects, but your mental health team at Columbia will consider these risks when developing your treatment plan. Regular monitoring and check-ups are essential to ensure that the benefits of the medication outweigh any potential risks.
Medication management can be a crucial part of mental health treatment as it can alleviate symptoms and improve overall day-to-day functioning. When you enroll in mental health services with Columbia, your team will work with you to identify solutions that work for your long-lasting progress.
Call Columbia Today for Psychiatric Services and Medication Management
Medication management can be an incredibly effective tool in mental health care. However, it is not always necessary. Some clients discover that therapy on its own helps them achieve their goals. Whether you reach a place of optimal mental health and wellness through therapy, medication, or a combination of both, we’re here to help every step of the way.
At Columbia, you’ll find an experienced team of psychiatric doctors, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants, all working in collaboration with therapists to deliver you the most comprehensive care available. Call Columbia today at 703.682.8208 to speak with a member of our expert team.
If you’re ready to take the next step in your mental health journey, click here to reach out to our team of empathetic mental health care experts. For existing clients, please click here and find your office location to contact your office directly.
Prescription medication is a useful tool, not a cure-all.
What Can I Expect from the Psychiatrists?
- A thorough diagnostic evaluation to specify the nature of your symptoms
- An emphasis on treating you or your loved one personally, as an individual who is suffering and not just as a group of symptoms or a disorder
- An emphasis on helping you or your loved one to understand the nature of the difficulties you are having
- Prescription of psychiatric medications in a strategic, compassionate manner that includes an explanation of the likely course of treatment and of possible side effects of the medications being prescribed
- At NDMH, our team of psychiatric doctors provide encouragement and support in making positive life changes. They will also coordinate with your therapist to ensure the psychiatric medication you are prescribed works in tandem with the therapy care you are receiving.
Psychiatrists and Medication Are Important
At New Directions Mental Health, we believe while there is no “magic pill” that can eliminate emotional struggles, there are times when mental health medication from our psychiatrists can play an important role in helping to alleviate emotional pain. In fact, finding a good psychiatrist and the right medication can be essential in putting you on the path toward recovering your psychological well-being. We believe in an integrative approach to providing psychiatric services, involving coordination of care between your psychiatrist and your counselor.
Are you looking for a psychiatrist? Are you or someone close to you experiencing one or more of the following?
- Severe anxiety
- Panic attacks
- Obsessive thinking or compulsive behaviors
- Depression
- Irritability or agitation
- Angry outbursts
- Mania (abnormally elevated mood and energy level)
- Suicidal thinking
- ADHD
- Psychiatric services
- Sleep disturbance
- An eating disorder
We do not conduct psychological testing at our practice and recommend obtaining testing before contacting our office to receive. If you or a loved on is experiencing one or more of the above, an evaluation with one of our psychiatrists would likely be a positive step towards reducing your suffering or the suffering of your loved one. Our psychiatric staff is available to see adults, teens and children as young as six.
Psychiatric medication can be an integral part of care when you are struggling with painful symptoms. Some people can benefit fairly quickly and only need medication for a period of six to 12 months. Others may need the long-term support of psychiatric medications. Every situation, just like every person, is different, and our psychiatrists take the time necessary to determine the optimal treatment for what you or your loved one is going through.