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Clients that I see sometimes are in need of medication to help them with sleep disturbance, depression, anxiety, and other difficulties. As a Clinical Psychologist trained in psychotherapy and behavior therapy, I do not prescribe medications. If a person comes to me already taking medication for any of these difficulties, I would consult with the prescribing M.D. if appropriate and asked to do so by my client. I would do this so we can be sure that we have a common understanding of what we are addressing and how my client is doing. Should my client not be on medication prior to coming to me but appear to need medication at the outset of our contacts or at some point during our work, we would discuss this matter and determine together the best course of action. If we agree on the need for medication, I would then refer my client to a psychiatrist for a medication evaluation (usually involving one or two appointments, and a limited number of follow up visits) or consult with the doctor he or she chooses (perhaps a trusted family physician). During this time, my client and I would continue to meet as usual. A psychiatrist is a specialist who is medically trained to prescribe medication for these difficulties. Of course, it is my client who always has the last word in choosing to take medication. |
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