Course of treatment varies across various mental health conditions:

Depression – The typical treatment is antidepressants such as Lexapro, Zoloft, Cymbalta, etc. Antidepressant treatment can present some challenges such as side effects and a positive response. Specialty care such as mine can minimize these challenges by timely follow up care and attentive examinations of each individual. Anti-depressants can take 4 to 8 weeks for an effect. However, we can implement therapeutic interventions that those under my care can use immediately.

Anxiety – Generalized anxiety disorder is also primarily treated with anti-depressants, which may take time to work. There are also other medications that may be used for a more immediate effect. Again, we would immediately begin using psychological interventions that will supplement any medications and have a more immediate result. 

ADHD – Due to the highly controlled nature of ADHD medications, I conduct a thorough examination process to provide accurate diagnosis. My experience allows me to watch for potential side effects or concerns with stimulant treatment. These medications typically work within a few days. 

Bipolar Disorder – The key to treating this condition is accurate diagnosis. Many of those under my care with bipolar disorder present with depressive symptoms. So everyone with these symptoms are carefully examined for bipolar disorder. This is critical as the medication treatment is different. An individual with bipolar disorder that is incorrectly diagnosed with depression would receive the wrong type of medication and likely have a worsening of symptoms.