Because I am a Clinical Social Worker, I am unable to administer medication. However, I can interface with your doctor or refer you to a Psychiatrist, should medication be indicated.
Medication is generally indicated if you have Clinical Depression, a chronic Anxiety Disorder, Bi-polar Disorder or you feel like hurting yourself or someone else (please refer to my "Emergency" section if this applies to you). The new Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRI's) meds are remarkably helpful in helping people function when they have the above disorders. I would recommend, however, that persons who are experiencing acute anxiety not become involved with 'popping' medications such as Klonopin (clonazepam), Xanax (alprazolam), Buspar, Ativan (lorazepam) or Valium (they are habit forming) to treat anxiety, but instead get a prescription for an SSRI (such as Zoloft, Lexapro, Effexor, Paxil, Prozac, etc.) to help you avoid getting panic attacks and acute anxiety in the first place. Clients sometimes experience side effects from the above, which we can speak about during our session or you can review with your doctor.
It should also be noted that sleep agents such as Ambien are indeed habit forming and should not be used for minor cases of insomnia. Although the commercials for these substances are quite alluring, they are powerful drugs, which can interfere with your normal sleep cycles. It is generally better to start with a less invasive treatment such as minimizing caffeine, especially after the early afternoon and exercising to fatigue the body and reduce anxiety. Relaxation tapes are sometimes helpful as is soothing music before bed (not the latest catastrophe on CNN or a scary movie). Additionally, herbs such as Valerian and Melatonin (or mixed, Ambiatol) have been helpful to some of clients with sleep problems. Just make sure that the herbs do not conflict with any other medication that you are taking (again, check with your MD or psychiatrist).
Less severe diagnoses (such as Adjustment disorder with Anxiety or Depression) often respond very well to counseling and support and holistic pursuits such as exercise, better nutrition, less caffeine, yoga, meditation, etc. When we begin your therapy, I am willing to take a wait and see attitude with the question of medication as long as your symptoms are not severe. My philosophy is that I would much prefer you not to take medication, if your symptoms can be alleviated through non-medical interventions.
However, if you would like to take medication at the beginning of our work together, you can ask your doctor. I feel that my clients should advocate for their own health needs and do what they feel is best for them.
Of course, the question of medication might come up from time to time during counseling. Feel free to raise this topic and I will be happy to explore the issue of medication more in depth with you during the course of your treatment.
