If you are concerned about your mental health you may be wondering where you should start. Many seek out therapy when they are struggling and many choose to speak to their doctor about medication options. Finding the type of mental health professional that fits your needs is important for your recovery. Many choose to engage in both, let’s explore the similarities and differences to help you decide where to start!

In What Ways are They Similar?

• Similar Goals: Therapists and psychiatric professionals (psychiatrists, psychiatric physician assistants and psychiatric nurse practitioners) all work for the same outcome. They want to help you feel better and improve the quality of your life. Treatment involves treating your symptoms and feeling like the best version of yourself.
• Extensive Knowledge About Mental Health: Therapists and psychiatric professionals are licensed and receive extensive training. Both are able to assess, diagnose and help you to develop a treatment plan that is right for you. 
• Pivotal in Recovery: Psychiatric professionals and therapists can help you to find relief from your symptoms. They can help you start or continue your journey to recovery. 

How Can Medication Management Help?

Medication management is when you meet with a psychiatric professional who assesses your symptoms and makes recommendations for medications that may help to alleviate your symptoms. A psychiatric professional can refer to anyone who is trained and licensed to treat mental health conditions through medication management. This umbrella term covers psychiatrists, psychiatric physician assistants and psychiatric nurse practitioners. These licensed providers are able to assess, diagnose and treat your symptoms through the use of medications. 

Many psychiatric professionals are holistic in their approaches, exploring additional avenues besides medication management to treat your symptoms. Preventative medicine can make a world of difference and many psychiatric professionals acknowledge this in their practice. 

How Can Counseling Help?

When you engage in counseling you will meet with a licensed therapist who can assess your symptoms and make treatment recommendations. Together you will develop a treatment plan to address what you are facing and find ways to get you to where you want to be. 

In therapy you can learn valuable skills to help improve your symptoms and find remission. Many choose to engage in therapy before considering medication management, though this isn’t always right for everyone. Many benefit from a combination of counseling and medication management. It is important to discuss your specific symptoms and experience with your provider to determine what is the best course of treatment for you. 

What Do You Need?

This is the million dollar question. Everyone is different and has different needs. There truly isn’t a wrong place to start as both counseling and medication management can be exceptionally helpful in treating mental health concerns. Therapists and prescribers can also make additional recommendations to best fit your needs. 

Many benefit from a combination of therapy and medication management while some find they prefer one over the other. The important thing is that you address your needs and focus on your wellness. Carolina Counseling Services in Fuquay-Varina, NC contracts with skilled, licensed providers who can help. Call today to get started!