What is psychiatry?
Psychiatry is a branch of medicine that focuses specifically on the medical and psychotherapeutic treatment of mental conditions and disorders.
How does psychiatry work?
Psychiatry allows people struggling to manage mental conditions or disorders to get access to medications that will make daily functioning easier, as well as work through any mental factors that might be causing or worsening their condition. Though medications can't cure mental disorders, medication can make symptoms more manageable, making the process of psychotherapeutic treatment easier and more effective. Psychiatric care can be available through in-person psychiatry and online psychiatry, depending on where you live and your own preferences. However, psychiatric providers at Thriveworks in Washington, DC specifically offer online psychiatry to their clients.
Does psychiatry deal with anxiety?
Psychiatrists are among the mental health professionals who can prescribe anxiety medication, and they are also capable of offering therapeutic treatment for anxiety as well, though not every psychiatric professional offers therapy. Medication management can be offered via in-person or online psychiatry.
What is the difference between a mental health therapist and psychiatrist?
A therapist has an education specifically rooted in therapeutic practice, approaches, techniques, and treatment. They cannot prescribe medications for clients, thought they often refer clients to psychiatrists for medication management. Psychiatrists are medically trained doctors who specialize in mental health treatment, mainly through medication management and prescription, though they can also practice therapy.
What's the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychologists and psychiatrists receive differing educations, as psychologists are not medically trained the same way that psychiatrists are. Psychologists mainly specialize in providing therapy services and diagnoses for mental disorders — something that most therapists cannot provide — while psychiatrists manage medications and sometimes provide therapy services. The main difference is that psychologists (generally) cannot prescribe medications the way psychiatrists can.
Do psychiatric NPs treat mental disorders?
Psychiatric nurse practitioners (NPs) treat and diagnose disorders, prescribe and manage medications, and offer psychotherapy services, too.
How do psychiatriac providers diagnose?
Oftentimes, psychiatrists or psychiatric professionals will perform a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, which involves an in-depth discussion about your symptoms, medical history, and current medications. Once they reach a diagnosis, they may suggest starting certain medications depending on your condition and the intensity of your symptoms.
Is psychiatry/medication conducted in person or online?
At Thriveworks, we offer online psychiatry as well as in-person therapy services for optimal comfort and convenience.
How long does psychiatry last?
Psychiatric services at Thriveworks Washington can last for as little or as much time as the client needs to reach their treatment goals, whether that be a month or two or over the course of years. treatment length is heavily dependent on the condition(s) being treated, the course of treatment, and the client's goals for treatment.
Need more help deciding?
When it comes to mental health conditions, medication management can play a major role in overcoming them. Psychiatrists and nurse practitioners have the qualifications and skills needed to accurately prescribe their clients medications that will help them in their mental health journey.
Thriveworks Washington, DC has online psychiatrists and nurse practitioners who can provide you with online care.
If you are experiencing a mental health condition and feel like you might benefit from talking to a psychiatrist, consider reaching out: (202) 221-8410.
What Is Medication Management?
Medication management ensures that the medication prescribed to our clients is taken correctly and safely. Our psychiatrists will monitor any negative side effects of your medication as well as ensure you are taking it properly. These professionals can also work with you if you feel like your prescription is not working for you or it is causing unwanted side effects. Before starting any new medication, speak to your psychiatrist or nurse practitioner about:
- Any and all medications you are currently taking
- Any allergies you have currently or have had in the past
- Exactly how much of the medication you should be taking
- Any concerns or problems you have concerning your medication before, during, and after
Our licensed professionals at Thriveworks Washington, DC are dedicated to providing their clients with the most comprehensive care possible. We believe in creating open, honest relationships with our clients and encourage you to speak openly about your concerns and goals.
Would I Benefit from Medication?
Most people assume that only the most severe cases of mental illness would benefit from the use of medication. However, people with mild cases of mental illnesses, such as anxiety and depression, could greatly benefit from some medications. Consider these two situations:
- Alex recently had her first child and wasn’t prepared for her postpartum depression when it hit. She often struggles to get out of bed and has feelings of worthlessness. She wants this time to be happy and exciting because she’s experiencing a lot of firsts with her child.
- Jenna recently experienced a traumatic event that has caused her to have anxiety when she’s put into certain situations. She only feels mildly anxious, however, it’s causing her to avoid certain activities, so she doesn’t have to experience those symptoms.
While Alex’s situation is slightly worse than Jenna’s, Jenna could still find great benefits in taking a prescription to help with her anxiety. Both women can start to go back to normal with a little extra help from medication and counseling. Different medications may include antidepressants and mood stabilizers. Your psychiatrist will be able to help you find what works best for you and your situation.
Work with an Online Psychiatrist at Thriveworks in Washington, DC
If you are ready to get started, give us a call at (202) 221-8410. We have flexible scheduling options that include days, evenings, and weekends. We look forward to working with you.