What is your practice around prescribing psychiatric medications?

Often medication can be helpful to alleviate symptoms. Sometimes they are used for short periods while a person undergoes lifestyle modifications and psychotherapy and can then be successfully tapered off. Some people experience significant improvements in quality of life with no or minimal side effects and prefer to stay on medication long-term. Every medication has potential risks and side effects. Understandably, some people are terrified by the thought of taking medication. Many have had negative experiences with medications, either medications were not effective, and/or they experienced adverse effects. Others do not want to feel dependent on medication. These are all valid reasons to be hesitant or opposed to taking medication. I will never push medication. I will be honest with you about what you can expect with certain medications, in terms of potential benefits, side effects, and risks. I will discuss different options with you so that you feel empowered to make the decision that you feel most comfortable with.