What is a Side Effect?

Simply stated, sometimes drugs due what they are supposed to do, but often they trigger other effects in the body unrelated to what they are intended to do. This may be related to the drug’s mechanism, dose, or effects on different systems in the body. Read More...

What is a Symptom? 

Helping patients to understand what we do as mental health clinicians is one of the most important tools we have to help them take a more proactive role in wellness. Treatment is more than a purely supportive ear over a cup of joe, or a random “pick a drug, any drug” treatment strategy as it has a definite methodology and structure.  This treatment comes in the form of different types of psychotherapy, which can be tailored to the needs of the patient, and possible use of psychopharmacology to help with symptoms.  Read More

Why Medicate?

The use of medication to treat mental health problems is threefold. They help to relieve acute and chronic distress, are sometimes needed to keep a patient stable long-term, and can relieve acute debilitating symptoms in order for a patient to be able to work more productively in talk-therapy. An athlete may not be able to function at peak performance long-term if they have a minor sprain or injury requiring an anti-inflammatory medication.  You may not have an optimal therapy and treatment experience if your symptoms get in the way of productively exploring relevant thoughts and emotional experiences. Read More...