Medication Management

At Mind and Body Medicine in Boise, Idaho, Dr. Tamara McDonald, DNP, understands that finding the right medication for your mental health is a deeply personal and transformative process. While medications can play an essential role in restoring balance, it’s important to take the time needed to ensure the right treatment plan is in place. Dr. McDonald offers personalized medication management services designed to meet your unique needs and foster long-term well-being. Contact our office or schedule your consultation online to begin your journey toward greater mental wellness.

What is medication management?

Medication management is an integral part of the holistic psychiatric care available at Mind and Body Medicine. Many people benefit from psychiatric medications to help alleviate symptoms and support their overall well-being. Medication management goes beyond merely prescribing medication, involving working together to find the right balance that promotes both emotional and physical health.

Dr. McDonald combines her expertise in psychiatry with a holistic approach, considering the whole person when recommending medication. By addressing both the psychological and physical factors affecting your mental health, she ensures that your care is comprehensive and supportive of your broader wellness goals.

Who can benefit from medication management?

Psychiatric medications are often prescribed to help manage symptoms while you explore other forms of treatment, such as psychotherapy and complementary alternative medicine. Mental health conditions that may benefit from medication management include:

• Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
• Depression
• Bipolar disorder
• Anxiety
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
• Substance abuse
• Psychotic disorders

Each treatment plan is as unique as the individual it supports. While some conditions may only require medication management temporarily, others, such as ADHD or bipolar disorder, may necessitate ongoing treatment to maintain balance and well-being.

What are common types of psychiatric medications? 

There are various types of medications available to help relieve the symptoms of mental health conditions, including: 

• Antidepressants: Used to treat depression, these medications often take several weeks to take effect. Medication management ensures that you find the antidepressant that works best for your body and mind.
• Anti-Anxiety Medications: These medications provide rapid relief for anxiety disorders, including phobias and panic attacks, helping you regain a sense of calm and control.
• Stimulants: Frequently prescribed for ADHD, stimulants enhance focus and alertness, allowing you to function more effectively in your day-to-day life.
• Antipsychotics: For those experiencing psychosis, antipsychotics offer critical support in regaining a clear sense of reality.

Dr. McDonald will carefully consider your unique situation and work with you to determine the best option.

What can I expect from medication management?

At Mind and Body Medicine, Dr. McDonald provides compassionate and attentive care throughout your medication management journey. Your experience will be personalized to your specific diagnosis and medication plan.

When beginning a new medication, Dr. McDonald may schedule frequent follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments. As you stabilize on the right medication, appointments may become less frequent, allowing you to enjoy the benefits of consistent care without unnecessary disruption.

If your condition improves to the point that medication is no longer needed, Dr. McDonald will guide you through a safe and gradual tapering process to avoid potential side effects. Every step of the way, she's here to support you on your path to sustained mental wellness.

Ready to take the next step in your mental health journey? Call Mind and Body Medicine or book your medication management appointment online today.