Travco Behavioral Health honors all paths to recovery from mental health disorders. We understand that, often, medication in addition to counseling might be necessary to provide significant relief from symptoms of mental illness. For our patients, the process of engaging in medication management would include:
- An initial meeting with a licensed Travco counselor who will facilitate a thorough assessment, gathering information such as current symptoms and treatment history
- Followed by an assessment with a licensed Travco prescriber who will continue the information-gathering process to determine which medication/s might be beneficial. The prescriber will provide education about the medication/s and what to expect (possible side effects, etc.)
- Then, medication management would typically be maintained by regularly scheduled meetings with the prescriber to determine the effectiveness of the medication/s and whether adjustments might be necessary
Throughout the treatment process, each patient’s prescriber and counselor collaborate to ensure the best combination of services is received for his or her individual concerns.
The following are some frequently asked questions about medication management at Travco:
What factors are considered in determining whether/how a patient could benefit from mental health medication?
Because each patient is unique, our thorough assessment process helps inform us about the key factors that might indicate a patient would likely benefit from medication. When considering type/dosage of medication, our treatment professionals will consider important data such as the patient’s age, history and diagnosis. For example, if a patient is elderly, certain medications may increase fall risk. Or, if a patient has a history of drug addiction, stimulants or benzodiazepines would likely not be appropriate.
Often, patients with any mental health symptoms that disrupt their daily functioning can find medication beneficial. Other specific examples of patients who would likely benefit from medication might be an individual who feels depressed/anxious despite numerous counseling sessions and utilization of coping skills, an individual who experiences suicidal ideation or a patient struggling with delusions/hallucinations.
What is the age range of patients for whom Travco prescribes medications?
Our psychiatrist prescribes medication for patients ages 5 and over and our psychiatric nurse practitioners prescribe medication for patients ages 14 and over.
Are there other requirements for patients to become engaged in medication management at Travco?
If a patient wishes to receive medications from Travco, he or she must participate in at least one counseling session per month. If the patient chooses to engage in counseling at a facility other than Travco, we will request for a release of information to be signed so that our prescribers can collaborate with the patient’s clinician.
Please note that the information presented here is not intended to take the place of medical advice. Mental health medications should be prescribed and maintained with the help of a licensed medical professional.
If you or a loved one would like to learn more about Travco’s mental health treatment, contact us today at 330.286.0050!
